Memorial Baptist Sermons: Recent Episodes
Memorial Baptist Church
🌱We don't often use the word "abide" in our everyday language. However, in this message from Memorial's "Grow" series, Pastor Dan explores the importance of abiding or staying close to Jesus by using the powerful imagery found in John 15:1-8. Just like branches must remain connected to the main stem of a plant, we also need to maintain our connection with Christ to experience spiritual growth and produce meaningful fruit in our lives.📖 Key Passage: John 15:1-8Join us as we delve into the timeless wisdom of John 15:1-8, discovering the profound truth of abiding in Christ. Just as a branch must remain connected to the vine to bear fruit, so too must we stay connected to Jesus to experience true growth and fulfillment in our lives.🌿 2024 Theme: "GROW"In this season of growth, let us embrace the call to abide in Christ, recognizing that true transformation begins with surrendering ourselves to His will. As we surrender our own desires and ambitions, we open ourselves to God's transformative power, allowing Him to prune away what is unfruitful and nurture what will bear eternal significance.🙏 Don't miss this message that challenges us to lean into the journey of abiding in Christ, trusting that His plans for us far surpass anything we could imagine for ourselves.🎥 Watch, share, and embark on the journey of "Abiding in Christ," allowing His love and grace to permeate every aspect of your life.
🌱 Join Pastor Dan in this thought-provoking sermon from Memorial's "Grow" series, as he explores the need for self-sacrifice. In this sermon, you'll learn about the transformative power of dying to yourself. Just a seed must "die" in order that it might grow into a plant, we must die to ourselves so that we might grow into all that God wants us to be.📖 Key Passage: John 12:23-26Discover the profound truth of embracing self-surrender is the key to becoming all that God intends us to be. "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit."🌿 2024 Theme: "Grow"This message is a call to grow individually and collectively, understanding that dying to oneself is the only path forward for bearing fruit for the Kingdom.🙏 Don't miss this message that inspires us to lean into self-surrender, allowing God's transformative work to take root in our hearts.🎥 Watch, share, and let the journey of "Dying to Yourself" transform your life.
🌱Join Pastor Dan in this inspiring sermon where he unveils the church's theme for 2024: "Grow." Drawing wisdom from Psalms 1:1-6, we explore the profound truth that healthy things grow, emphasizing the importance of our spiritual journey.📖 Key Passage: Psalms 1:1-6Discover the transformative power of aligning our lives with God's Word and understanding that our walk with the Lord is a continual journey of growth or decline. Pastor Dan challenges us to embrace growth, fostering a vibrant and thriving community in our church.🌿 2024 Theme: "Grow"Explore the significance of this theme as Pastor Dan encourages us to cultivate spiritual health, deepen our roots, and flourish in our relationship with God. It's a call to embrace growth in every aspect of our lives, individually and collectively as a church family.🙏 Don't miss this empowering message that inspires us to lean into growth, allowing God's transformative work to unfold in our hearts and community. Let's grow together in faith, love, and service.🎥 Watch, share, and let the journey of growth begin!
In this compelling sermon from the "Deadly Beliefs" series titled "Legalism," Pastor Dan delves into the insidious nature of legalistic beliefs within the Christian walk. Drawing inspiration from Matthew 15:1-9, Pastor Dan reveals how legalism, though appearing virtuous, can lead to the perilous trap of self-righteousness. As you listen, discover the liberating truth that sets us free in Christ.
As believers in Christ, we know that sin is rebellion that keeps us from God's purpose for our lives. But what should happen when a Christian does fall into sin? In this deeply reflective sermon by Pastor Dan, he tackles the question that plagues many hearts. When we stumble on our spiritual journey, where do we turn, and how do we find our way back to the Lord's path?
When someone becomes a Christian, it means so much more than changing a few habits and behaviors. God gives them a job. God gives them an eternal purpose. As you listen to this powerful sermon by Pastor Dan, ask yourself, "If God has restored me and made me new, am I living as His representative to a dark and dying world?"
In one of his most powerful sermons, Pastor Dan shows how, over the course of history, the concept of truth has devolved tremendously. As you watch and listen, ask yourself what areas of your life you might be substituting what is absolutely true with your opinion.
In this fascinating message by Pastor Dan, we learn about Satan's primary strategy to destroy our lives. Pay careful attention. It's very subtle and may not be what you think it is. Each of us must stand ready, living by the only standard guiding our values. As you listen, ask yourself, "What's my standard?"
Jesus gives us our identity as Christians. He says "You are the light of the world." So many Christians are trying to live out their faith when they have no idea who they really are. In this powerful sermon, Pastor Dan shows us the importance of owning our identity as God's light in this dark world.
In this thought-provoking sermon, Pastor Dan explores the profound significance of the first Christmas. It serves as a powerful reminder of God the Father sending His Son, a tangible expression of His love in action. Rather than just uttering "I love you," God exemplifies His love through His deeds. This message invites you to uncover the genuine essence of a God who not only speaks but also acts on His love.
When an extraordinary event occurs in your life, it's nearly impossible to contain your excitement. Think back to that initial Christmas when the shepherds were graced by a visitation from angels. God specifically chose them to be the bearers of His glorious news, the heralds of His arrival, despite their lowly position in society. In Pastor Dan's sermon, we'll discover that the real joy of Christmas is knowing that God meets people where they are.
Are you at peace? Most people think that peace is found in the absence of life's storms. But in this sermon, Pastor Dan shows us that peace isn't the same as safety. Suffering, sickness, and sadness will happen in this life. However, true peace comes through our Savior, Jesus Christ.
There's no feeling like being lost. Sometimes there are seasons of our lives where we lose our way. When Jesus came to earth that first Christmas, He came in the midst of so many broken lives. As you listen to today's message, consider carefully how Jesus has come to give you hope, freedom, healing, and restoration.
Have you ever missed a sign showing you where you were supposed to go? God sent a sign that first Christmas. Some people prepared, others didn't. In the same way, God wants to prepare our hearts for the season of Christmas. Check out this sermon by Pastor Dan. In it, he'll show us how God is still in the miracle business.
Have you ever gone on a trip, but forgot to pack your toothbrush or phone charger? The frustration of leaving something behind could have been prevented if you had just taken the time to inspect everything. In the same way, there are seasons of life when we get frustrated because our circumstances don't meet our expectations. In this sermon, Pastor Dan reminds us of the tools we need to remain faithful when the Lord's work causes the unexpected.
Today's world has little concern for the truth. Instead, the "jury of popular opinion" tends to rule the day. In this sermon, Memorial's Youth Pastor, Cameron Machen, shows us the godly principles needed to stand firm in the face of the world's agenda-driven viewpoints.
God has a plan for your life. Nevertheless, His perfect plan may take you on a path filled with obstacles. In this message, Pastor Dan shows us that God's plan's not isn't just about reaching a destination, it's about the process that God uses to mature us and build our faith.
Owen and Jess Sweitzer considered themselves ordinary vegetable farmers until one day all of that changed. They took a trip to Africa to teach composting techniques to the natives. While meeting several Christian leaders, they learned that most believers (and even pastors) were without Bibles. Some had even been praying for decades for a copy of God's word. From that moment on, their lives changed and Project Bible Runners was formed.
In a world with metal detectors, smoke detectors, and motion detectors, God has placed a "sin detector" in our hearts called a conscience. Nevertheless, many people, including Christians, live with a damaged or deficient conscience. In this message, Pastor Dan helps us to evaluate and establish our consciences according to God's standards and desires.
God places a special calling on all His people. The children of God are to be the light of the world who shine the salvation of Christ to all nations and ethnicities. In the message, Pastor Dan expounds on how we can become complacent or even contemptuous toward those who are different than us but who, also, need God's redemption and grace.
No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care. This is especially true when it comes to matters of faith in Christ. In this message, Pastor Dan shows us how to find common ground with those around us so we can share the Gospel effectively.
No matter what kind of father you may have had (or haven't had) in this life, each of us has a perfect, heavenly Father. He is always present. He is infinitely powerful. He makes plans for your life. He provides for you. But most importantly, He is passionate. Let this message by Pastor Dan help you to fall in love with the only perfect Father.
Your words have power. But it's not just what you say, it's how you say it. In this message, Pastor Dan shows us how to use our words in a way that glorifies God when we find ourselves in the thick of immense conflict.
As believers, we know that we're not to get caught up in rumors, gossip, or slander. But how do we respond when we become the object of rumors ourselves? In this passionate message, Pastor Dan shows us the mindset we must possess in order to stand firm in the midst of destructive comments from others.
Usually, we try to avoid pain. In fact, the thought of any type of suffering can leave us feeling weary and disillusioned. But what if a painful experience is precisely what God wants you to go through? In this message, Pastor Dan shows us what things to focus on amidst complex trials.
What would you say if you knew that today was the last time you would ever see a family member or a friend? This is precisely the situation that the Apostle Paul found himself in. He calls for church leaders of Ephesus knowing that this will be the last message he will ever speak to them. In this sermon, Pastor Dan explains how we can apply Paul's urgent last words.
Words and actions are the windows of the heart. As you grow deeper in your relationship with Christ those words and actions naturally change to match your spiritual maturity. One of the clearest demonstrations of that maturity is that you become an encourager. In this message, Pastor Dan reveals three of the main ways you can be an encourager based on the life of the Apostle Paul.
All great mothers want to guide their children in the truth. But what are the most important things that they can say? In today's message from Proverbs 31, Pastor Dan shows us a royal mother's wisdom to her son who has recently become king. No matter where you are in life, these Biblical principles will help you grow stronger in your character and influence.
What happens when a great move of God comes in contact with a culture steeped in secularism? In short -- a major disturbance. In this message, Pastor Dan shows us the characteristics that lead to a city-wide revival. However, we will also see how the enemy clashes with God's people to resist God's work.
So many times we forget that there is a spiritual realm filled with angels and demons. We must stay alert to the fact that spiritual warfare is all around us. Satan has a strategy to destroy you, but God has given you all the resources that you need to walk in victory. In this message, Pastor Dan examines how to combat the enemy and walk in God's protection over your life.
Every day people miss the presence and power of Jesus Christ even when He's right there in front of them. In this Easter sermon, Pastor Dan shows that we can also miss the resurrected Christ when we become distracted by disappointments, details, and doubts.
Terms and conditions. They are a part of any contract. They express one's expectations and intentions. But how many times have you ever clicked "accept" but never stopped to read the terms? When Jesus came 2,000 years ago, many people had their own expectations of what they thought He should be. However, He had an entirely different agenda.
The Christian life is inherently defense and offense in nature. Defensively, we strive to keep ourselves pure and free from sin. Offensively, we are focused on building God's kingdom. However, as Pastor Dan shows us, we are not to do it all on our own. We have a Covenant Coach, the Holy Spirit, who teaches us, comforts us, and empowers our lives to accomplish God's work.
Behind every great man or woman is someone who has played a significant role in influencing their life. In most cases, these mentors are rarely known to the outside world. Nevertheless, they have had a profound impact on the course of history. We shouldn't sell ourselves short. Every single one of us is a person of influence. In this message, Pastor Dan unpacks three tools that will help you become a wise and godly influence on the next generation of Christian leaders.
What does it look like for a person to be completely sold out to God? As you can imagine, God must be the most important thing in their life. The Jews had a pledge, given in the Old Testament, called a Nazarite Vow that showed their complete devotion to the Lord. The Apostle Paul took this vow as he wrapped up his second missionary journey. In this message by Pastor Dan, we'll examine how to make God the most important thing in our lives and become "Nazarite Christians."
God has given all of us an assignment to reflect His glory and share His gospel with those that are around us. However, sometimes intimidation and fear set in causing us to become paralyzed and unproductive. In this sermon, Pastor Dan shares insights from a time when the Lord spoke to the Apostle Paul and encouraged him while ministering in the city of Corinth. Let this message encourage you too. Know that God is always there by your side no matter the circumstances.
Only 40-50% of Americans are satisfied with their line of work. Only 20% are actually passionate about what they do. That means that millions upon millions of people go to work every day only motivated by their paycheck. But what would happen if you saw your job as so much more than that? In this message, Pastor Dan takes a look at the lives of Aquila and Priscilla, a couple who had been displaced from their home. Their occupation wasn't glamorous, but it was a good living. And because they focused on God's purpose for their lives, their names are mentioned all over the New Testament as a testimony of how they used their career to build God's Kingdom.
Sharing your faith with others is an essential part of being a Christ-follower. But, there's a right way and a wrong way to go about doing it. In this message, Pastor Dan will show you an easy-to-remember method that the Apostle Paul used when he shared his faith with the city officials and philosophers in the city of Athens. You can use this exact same method at work, school, and with friends and family.
Memorial Baptist School has some incredible teachers. Of the teachers we recognized, they had a combined 258 years of education right here at our school. Listen as Pastor Dan and Mr. Riggs share the attributes that make up a great teacher.
Note We apologize for some of the sound errors that occurred during this recording.
Like a football quarterback who's looking down the field at his options, you and I are called to look down the field of our lives and see the people who are open to the Gospel. In Acts 17:16-18, the Apostle Paul travels to the city of Athens where he finds Gospel opportunities all around him. Four major groups stand out that Paul minister's to while there. In this sermon podcast, Pastor Dan shows us that we have these same four groups of people in our lives. They need us to pass the ball of faith in Christ to them.
What does it mean to be a genuine seeker of Jesus Christ? Does it mean that you go to church and follow a few religious practices? It's more than that. In this sermon, we'll see how the Apostle Paul left the city of Thessalonica and went to the city of Berea. The Bereans were hungry for the truth of God's word and met daily to see if the things Paul was saying were true. Listen carefully as Pastor Dan shows us how we can have the heart of a Berean and become genuine seekers of Christ.
Many of our current worship songs bring attention to God's amazing glory. However, when was the last time you heard a worship song asking God for forgiveness from sin? In this teaching, Carianne Pritchett explores the gravity of our sin and how David's deep emotion flows from his heart onto the page in Psalm 6.
After leaving Philippi, Paul and Silas traveled to Thessalonica, the capital city of Macedonia. There, they spent three Sabbath days sharing the Gospel in the local synagogue. In this message from Bro. Austin Smith, you'll see how evangelism takes dialog, explanation, and proclamation.
On their second missionary journey, the Apostle Paul and his companions had God's assurance for their mission. Nevertheless, they still experienced persecution. In fact, the Bible tells us that EVERYONE that wants to live a godly life in Christ will be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12). In this sermon, Pastor Dan is going to show you how to respond to persecution in a way that opens the door for God to do His miraculous work.
Have you ever felt like God was holding out on you? We've all had moments when we've questioned God's rules. In this Wednesday night message, Pastor Dan teaches us how God's boundaries actually give our lives more freedom...not less.
Have you ever noticed that when someone’s favorite sports team wins they tend to make comments like, “We won!” However, that person never stepped foot on the court or on the field. Nevertheless, because they have aligned themselves with the team, they are able to share in its victory. You and I have aligned ourselves with “Team Jesus.” We didn’t do the work that He did on the cross. In this sermon, Pastor Dan is going to show us ways that we can exercise our faith since we also share in Christ's victory.
Have you been through hard times, broken relationships, health problems, or even the loss of a loved one? How do you get back on track? You could try to make things happen with your own ability and insight. However, you'll probably not find yourself in God's perfect will for your life. In this sermon, Pastor Dan shows us how to wait on God. When we do, we find ourselves in the center of His plans.
A.W. Tozer once said that the spiritual man learns to think and feel as one who has already left the world. In this sermon Pastor Dan introduces our church's 2022 theme, Eternal Perspective. Listen and discover how to make the things that last for all of eternity the most important things in your life.
The Apostle Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus and told them what it means to find one's identity in Jesus. As we prepare for a new year, let us focus on finding our identity in Christ and Christ alone.
During the Christmas season, we all too often get caught up in holiday celebrations and family get-togethers but misunderstand why we celebrate Christmas. Pastor Dan reminds us that Jesus came to rescue us from our sin if we have faith in Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection.
Without light, there would be no life on earth. When the Apostle John refers to Jesus as the light, he's sending a message that there is no abundant or eternal life without him. In today's Christmas message Pastor Dan shows us how the light of Christ illuminates our hearts, expels our darkness, and reflects God's hope to the world.
When it comes to Christmas traditions, there are all kinds of firsts--the first time you bought a Christmas tree, the first time you build a gingerbread house, or the first Christmas movie marathon. We celebrate the season of Advent because of the very first Christmas when Jesus was born. But, do we realize that Jesus has always existed? His birth wasn't His beginning. Listen in as Pastor Dan helps us see the birth of Christ from a much deeper perspective.
Prior to Paul's second missionary journey, a conflict arose between Paul and Barnabas - Barnabas wanted to bring John Mark, but since John Mark deserted them previously in Pamphylia, Paul was strongly against it. The conflict was so strong that Paul and Barnabas chose to part ways. Pastor Dan points out that though they split on this issue, both of their passion for sharing the gospel was intense, and that ultimately, God was still glorified.
Biblical teacher, Kay Arthur, said, "God is in control, and therefore in everything I can give thanks - not because of the situation but because of the One who directs and rules over it." Through Psalm 138:1-3, Pastor Dan shares the ways through which our hearts should prioritize God with our thanksgiving.
Shortly after a council meeting at the church of Jerusalem, Paul and Barnabas and other leaders were sent to Antioch to share the council's decision via letter. Pastor Dan shares how God used this to bring about a positive change in the church and can do the same thing through our problems too.
In the early days of the church, some people taught that Gentiles must follow the law of Moses in order to be saved. Bro. Austin Smith shares how the church handled this issue by recognizing that grace comes through faith for both the Jew and the Gentile.
Despite cities that were openly antagonistic to Paul and Barnabas, they chose to build up Christian communities. In the same way, Pastor Dan encourages us to risk our lives for the sake of developing our own Christian ecosystems.
When Paul and Barnabas sought to share the gospel in Lystra, the crowd mistakenly treated them as Gods, yet only days later, the same crowd stoned them and left them for dead. Pastor Dan warns us not to be like this capricious crowd. He reminds us not to fall into the trap of following popular opinion rather than God's truth.
Paul and Barnabas had some great conversations at the synagogue in Acts 13, but the Jews in Pisidian Antioch became jealous of the crowds they were attracting. Pastor Dan reminds us that even when we obediently share our faith, people may reject us just too.
Paul and Barnabas related to, engaged with, and declared the gospel to the synagogue of Pisidian Antioch. Pastor Dan encourages us to follow their example in our gospel conversations as well.
Paul's missionary journey takes him through the island of Cyprus where he encounters a sorcerer and a false prophet. Pastor Dan shows how we should emulate Paul's boldness in sharing the truth of the gospel, even when we encounter Satan at work in the world around us.
Pastor Dan discusses the qualities of the missionaries chosen by God from the church in Antioch in Acts 13. We should strive to emulate those qualities as fellows missionaries of the gospel.
Paul's words to the Church of Corinth to not lose heart still ring true today. Pastor Dan urges us, even in the midst of trials, "Don't give up!"
King Herod Agrippa in his pridefulness chose to enjoy the praise due to God rather than acknowledge Him, so God sent an angel to end his life. Pastor Dan points out how pride progressively corrupts up, ultimately leading to our downfall if we do not humble ourselves before God.
In Acts 12, King Herod Agrippa arrested Peter and planned on bringing him out for a public trial following the Passover, yet God chose to send an angel to lead Peter out of the prison. Through this story, Pastor Dan teaches us how in the midst of an attack, our God is in the business of doing amazing things on our behalf if we trust in Him.
Due to the persecution of early believers, the gospel was spread across Rome, not only to the Jews but also to the Greeks. In effect, the church of Antioch became a hub for ministry. Pastor Dan encourages us to follow Antioch's example and become a hub for ministry in the New Orleans area.
Like the shepherd sought out the single, lost sheep in Jesus' parable, Bro. Dawesteniel Louis challenges us to find just one person to reach with the gospel.
Bro. Austin Smith shares "The Parable of the Ten Virgins" with us, pointing out how we too need to be ready for Christ's return just like the wise lamp bearers were ready for the bridegroom in the story.
Like the children learned during Rocky Railway VBS the previous week, Pastor Dan reminds us all that "God's power helps us do hard things."
God revealed through Peter that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. An identity in Christ was offered to anyone who believed in Jesus, both the Jew and the Gentile. Pastor Dan shows us some of the ways that our identity in Christ is proven through the early church's revelation.
God used a vision and a unique, evangelistic experience with a centurion to show Peter "that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right." (Acts 10:34-35) Pastor Dan uses this awesome story to point out some of the ways God works in the lives of believers.
"God will supply us with the opportunity, but it's up to us to do something with it." Pastor Dan uses Peter's ministry in Acts 9 to demonstrate how we can be 7-day-a-week Christians.
Saul, once a persecutor of the church, began openly sharing that Jesus is the messiah. Pastor Dan teaches us what it means to become a man of influence just like Paul became.
Right after Saul, also known as Paul, was blinded by the light of Christ, God directed Ananias, a disciple in Damascus, to go and heal him. Pastor Dan teaches us that as vessels of God's grace, we, too, are called to share grace with others in loving obedience.
As Memorial Baptist Church asks God to bless the new school building for Memorial Baptist School, Pastor Dan and Principal Riggs recount many of the ways that God has blessed us over this last, difficult year.
Initially, Saul zealously persecuted the followers of Christ. After an incredible encounter with Jesus, Saul, later known as Paul, was blinded for three days before eventually following Jesus. Pastor Dan reminds us to never discount God's mighty power to save anyone and everyone who turns to Him.
Sometimes, God gives us ample time to prepare to share the gospel with others, but oftentimes the Holy Spirit prompts us to share with someone without prior notice. Pastor Dan encourages us to respond to the Holy Spirit's prompting just like Philip shared with the Ethiopian official in Acts 8.
In Acts 8, we learn of a man named Simon who was practicing sorcery in Samaria. Although he was delighted by the Holy Spirit that was given to believers in Jesus, his motives for gaining the Holy Spirit were decidedly selfish. Pastor Dan gives a few questions to help us critique our own motives in following Jesus.
In Stephen's last moments, "He saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God." (Acts 7:55b) Pastor shares with us some of the amazing ways that Christians kept their gaze on Christ in the midst of pain and suffering.
As we celebrate all of the students "graduating" from Memorial Kid University this Spring, Pastor Dan takes a moment to remind us that we're pouring into the eternal futures of our children and ourselves.
God made the nation of Israel into his chosen people, yet quite often they dishonored God through their lack of faith. Pastor Dan shows us how we can learn from Israel's past successes and failures as recounted by Stephen in Acts 7.
Jesus said plainly in John 16:33, "You will have suffering in this world." Yet, will we remain steadfast when people speak against us? Pastor Dan uses Stephen's example in Acts 6 to show us what we must do to remain faithful to Christ in the face of persecution.
In the early days of the church, some of the widows felt overlooked, but the apostles recognized that they alone could not care for them. Therefore, as a church, they chose men who were full of the Spirit and wisdom to be responsible for the daily distribution of food. Pastor Dan explains that like these men in Acts 6, we have all been chosen to serve.
In 1 Corinthians 15:16-17, Paul addressed the lies that some were spreading that there was no resurrection from the dead. Paul countered their arguments by saying, "if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins." This Easter Sunday morning, Pastor Dan walks us through some of the amazing things that only Christ's glorious resurrection can possibly explain.
Billy Graham once said, "Just because the truth is unpopular doesn't mean that it should not be proclaimed." Pastor Dan shows us in Acts 5:12-42, that even in the face of great opposition, Peter and the apostles chose to walk in and loudly proclaim the truth of God.
Pastor Dan urges us to not simply view the story of Ananias and Sapphira withholding money set aside for the church as a cautionary tale, but as a true spiritual warning: we must be on guard against artificial spirituality seeking praise from Man rather than seeking true approval from God.
Jesus didn't just say that we might be persecuted for following Him; He guaranteed it. So what should we do when we experience persecution as followers of Christ? Using Peter and John's example in Acts 4, Pastor Dan shows us the model to use when facing hardships for the sake of Christ.
After Peter and John healed a man who was lame from birth, they seized on an opportunity to share the gospel with the people in the Temple. Pastor Dan shares with us what we must do to be effective witnesses of Jesus Christ during the opportunities given to us.
Do we sometimes limit spiritual warfare to the devil's temptations only? The reality is that spiritual warfare can also be very visible--sickness, car trouble, financial burdens, unusual aggravation, behavior problems with your kids or other family members, persecutions, etc. As Tony Evans says, "Spiritual Warfare is the conflict in the spiritual realm that affects the physical realm. The daily problems we face here are rooted there. But, importantly, the resources you need to fight the battle are there too." In this message, Pastor Dan walks us through the spiritual resources that God has given us to do combat with our greatest enemy.
During a trip to the temple, Peter and John, in the name of Jesus, miraculously healed a man who was crippled from birth. Pastor Dan reminds us to identify both with how the lame man was spiritually broken, and with how he was made brand new in Christ. Through faith in Jesus, we are a new creation!
The infant church grew because of the Holy Spirit's blessing. Beautiful fellowship and discipleship took place among those early Christians. As a result, people were giving their lives to Christ daily. In this sermon, Pastor Dan shows us some of the early church's non-negotiables that led to their success.
When the Holy Spirit fills a believer, He allows that person to live supernaturally. Before the day of Pentecost, Peter struggled with being both impulsive and timid. However, after being filled with God's Spirit he stands up and preaches a powerful message proving that Jesus was the Messiah. As a result, the listeners were pierced to the heart. As Christians, you and I have the same Holy Spirit inside of us as did Peter. So what's keeping us from living supernaturally also?
The Holy Spirit came down on Jesus' disciples 10 days after His ascension. People from all over the world who heard the disciples speak with this new power were asking, "What does this mean?" In today's sermon, Pastor Dan takes you back in time and shows you the significance of the Holy Spirit coming on the day of Pentecost. What does that mean for us today? What we find is a huge sense of urgency.
The disciples are confronted with a void in their ranks. Judas Iscariot had betrayed Jesus and, later killed himself out of shame and regret. The time had come for his replacement to be chosen. But what happened with Judas? How could he have spent three years of his life hearing Christ's teachings and seeing Christ's miracles, yet walk away unaffected? It happened to Judas and it can happen to us. He harbored a hard heart.
Jesus had been resurrected. He had ascended into heaven. He was no longer physically with His disciples. How would they keep going? How would they know what to do? The answer--they came together in prayer. In this sermon by Pastor Dan, you will learn how the church, much like the disciples, had to wait upon God's power, believe God's promise to return, and become unified in prayer.
How can a church move from having a mission statement to having a vibrant mission status? Dawesteniel Louis shows us how the expansion of the Gospel is God's heart for every church. God is calling believers to trust in His power so that we can be on mission locally, globally, and everywhere in between.
In today's message, Pastor Dan shares insights that we will see throughout the New Testament book of Acts. After Jesus was resurrected and ascends into heaven, the church is established and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Like a fire, Christianity spread throughout the nations. Even though the book was written 2000 years ago, you will find that many of its characters you can relate to. These are not legendary stories of miracles and missionaries. These were actual people living the "normal" Christian life.
At Memorial, we are passionate about your personal growth with the Lord. But, do modern-day discipleship methods such as Sunday School and Small Groups take believers to the next level in their faith? Is there a better and more biblical discipleship structure? These are the concerns Pastor Dan voices in this vision-casting message. Listen to this message with an open mind as present the idea of a "222 Culture."
How are we going to invest our time, talents, and finances going forward into the new year? Pastor Dan shares how our investments into our walk with Christ result in a heavenly yield.
In Jesus, we find peace, yet that peace may still include suffering, sickness, or sadness. Even so, true peace can only be found in our Savior, Jesus Christ. Join us as Pastor Dan teaches us about true peace.
When the angels told the shepherds the good news about Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, they responded by going to the babe, sharing about what they had seen, and praising God for all they had seen and heard. Pastor Dan shows us that the joy of the savior should cause us to respond in the exact same way.
Arguably the most recited and well-known verse in the Bible, John 3:16 shows us that Jesus was born on Earth to share God's love. Pastor Dan reminds us to respond to this awesome love by believing in Jesus and celebrating the eternal life offered to us.
Jesus came to provide the world with hope, forgiveness, healing, and restoration. And as Pastor Dan notes, he came for us even though we were still considered enemies of God. The good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ is salvation to all who hear and believe.
"Thankfulness is so much more than a point in time. Instead, it's a point of view." Follow along with Pastor Dan as we learn to thank God not simply by seeking His hand, but by seeking His face.
(Sermon presented by Pastor Dan Pritchett on November 22, 2020)
Where should we place our hope and confidence? Pastor Dan shows us from the book of Revelation that our eternal goal is not here on earth, but is in the eternal city of God yet to come.
Sometimes we make impulsive, even foolish decisions. Pastor Dan discusses how to make wise decisions in light of our relationship with Jesus.
Pastor Dan shares with us the signs listed in scripture that will signal Jesus' return. Despite all of the negative things we may see in the future and even now, we should consider ourselves blessed to part of the worldwide sharing of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Jesus said in Matthew 24 that "no one knows - neither the angels of heaven nor the Son - except the Father alone" when Heaven and Earth as we know it will pass away. Although we shouldn't attempt to predict that day, we are called to prepare our hearts, souls, and minds for when Jesus calls us home.
Pastor Dan uses Paul's loving greetings to his faithful brothers and sisters in Christ to show us how right belief and right practice combine to lead us to an exuberant doxology.
Pastor Dan teaches that like the Apostle Paul, our lives must be both missional and intentional as we fulfill our role in serving the Lord and our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
As brothers and sisters in Christ, we have a responsibility to build up one another with a welcoming heart. Pastor Dan uses Romans 15:1-13 to show us what it means to be in the spiritual construction business.
Paul used the example of an argument over acceptable foods to eat to teach the church of Romans that "the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit." (Romans 14:17) So too, let today's church "therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification." (Romans 14:19)
As chosen followers of Christ, we have a responsibility to share the love of Christ to the world around us. Pastor Dan reminds us that love is the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:10)
Despite excessive persecution at the hand of the Roman Emperor Nero, Paul advocated that Christians submit and obey governing authorities. Pastor Dan teaches us about the civil postures we should take in submitting to today's governing authorities.
Romans 12:14-21 teaches us the supernatural postures Christians must adopt to peacefully and lovingly respond to the world.
How do those who have received the mercy of God and the grace of God respond to the people of God? Through Romans 12:9-13, Pastor Dan teaches us about the postures that we should take in how we respond to our fellow believers.
Romans 12 teaches us that through God's grace, we recognize that our worth is not found in our natural or spiritual giftings, yet we are stewards of the gifts given to us. As a healthy, united, body of believers, we should share our gifts freely to build up one another.
Pastor Dan shows us how Romans 12:1-2 teaches us that our relationship with God always begins with His mercy. Therefore, we must intentionally surrender our bodies, minds, and wills to Him for our relationship to grow deeper with God.
God's people Israel, who were meant to bring salvation to the world, rebelled against God through their rejection of Christ. And through their transgression, God chose to provide salvation for the Gentiles. Yet, God longs to show mercy to the Gentiles and the Jews. As Romans 11:36 says "For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever. Amen."
Romans 10 teaches that the gospel of Jesus Christ, the good news of Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection, requires us to respond in faith to receive salvation. Once we respond in faith, we have a responsibility to share that good news. As Isaiah 52:7 proclaims, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"
As we consider the role we play in God's story of redemption, Romans 9 teaches us that in all things God holds the directing role. God shows mercy to all who respond to Him through faith in his promise, and "the one who believes on him will not be put to shame." (Romans 9:33)
The apostle Paul teaches in Romans 8:18-39 that God deliberately and faithfully delivers us from sin, and through His love and dedication, God defends us from anyone and anything that would seek to persecute us. Through His love, we are more than conquerors, and nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:1 teaches "there is now no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus". Though we were born into flesh, we no longer have to live according to the mindset of flesh. As adopted children of God, we now live in the spirit as brothers and sisters with Christ.
Romans teaches us not only have we died to our sin, but we have also died to the Old Testament law. Since we are incapable of doing everything completely right according to the law, we are condemned to death by it. Therefore, we exclaim in agreement with Romans 7:25, "thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!"
The Bible reveals that we are all servants. Either we live to serve our sinful nature or we live to serve the Lord. In today's sermon Pastor Dan shows us the qualities of a person who lives their life to honor and serve Jesus.
As believers, our identity is directly tied to that of Jesus. In today's sermon by Pastor Dan we'll see how Christians are unified in both Christ's death on the cross and His resurrection from the grave. We have died to an old "sin condition" and have been raised with Christ to a brand new life filled with power and purpose.
When we hear the word "sin," we usually think of someone committing a sin. When we hear the word "grace," we usually think of God's grace that He gives to save our souls when we are converted. However, when the Apostle Paul uses these two words in Romans 5:12-21, he uses them to describe the spiritual condition of our hearts. Where is your life today? In a state of sin or a state of grace?
For the past couple of weeks, we've been learning about righteousness and faith. In this week's sermon, Pastor Dan is going to show us some of the things that faith produces in our lives. In addition, we're going to be learning about why God allows affliction and suffering in our lives.
You don’t have to be a historian to know that looking back on history has great benefits. In this sermon Pastor Dan examines the amazing work that faith does in the life of a believer. We'll look back to the Old Testament story of Abraham and see how God declared him righteous before any religious rituals were given to him.
Up until now in the book of Romans, we have seen that all of humanity is morally bankrupt. In today's sermon, we'll examine how righteousness by faith in Jesus Christ really works. Pastor Dan shows us how the inner workings of God's justice, grace, redemption, and atonement come together in the act of salvation.
The Apostle Paul was writing to the church in Rome to help unify the two major groups of Christians--Jews and Gentiles. With their diverse backgrounds of traditions and practices, only the Gospel could bring them together. In today's sermon, Pastor Dan shows how both groups had been "Found Guilty" before God with their sin. This was their common denominator! They needed to be rescued by God's grace through Jesus' work on the cross. In today's world, Christians are just as diverse as in the first century. We still have a desperate need for salvation that unites us.
The church of Romans consisted of both Jews and Gentiles - those who were under the Law and those who weren't. Paul addresses the error of relying on their Jewish connection to God, rather than their faith and obedience in Christ. In the same way, Pastor Dan warns us not to fall into similar modern trappings when it comes to our eternal security.
As John 3:16 reminds us, God loved us so much that he sent his son to live, die, and be resurrected from the dead on our behalf. This Easter morning, Pastor Dan shares with us just a few of the amazing things that Jesus' resurrection makes possible in our lives if we choose to follow Him.
Pastor Dan uses the letters of the word "palm" to spell out how we as Christians are to "Practice His Praise," "Acknowledge His Authority," "Love the Lamb," and "Mourn Our Mindset" in our relationship to God.
You can experience great joy in the midst of a great trial when you realize how passionate God is for your good and His glory. Pastor Dan shows us from scripture how we can gain that "joy perspective."
In light of the pandemic and all that is going on in the world today, Pastor Dan shares a few great ways for us to experience a true, personal revival in our relationship with Jesus.