Bethany Bible Church Podcast: Recent Episodes
Bethany Bible Church
Jesus declared that the Scriptures of the Old Testament testify of him. That fact should lead us to ask how the passages of the Old Testament testify of Jesus. Our Christian growth comes from becoming more like Christ. We must see the Old Testament for what it is and understand how it can help us become more like Jesus.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240901110000
In an effort to discredit Jesus with the people and turn them against him, the religious leaders pose some questions to Jesus designed to entrap him. However, Jesus not only defuses the situation but uses it as an opportunity to teach important lessons about our relationship to government, to God, to Scripture, and to eternity.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240825110000
The parable of the tenants is the last parable recorded in the Gospel of Mark and the only major parable recorded outside of Mark chapter 4. It's presentation during the last week of Jesus' ministry points to its significance. This parable is a vivid picture of God's mercy and judgment.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240818110000
Throughout his final week of ministry, Jesus is going to emphasize the importance of prayer. He will demonstrate to his disciples that effective prayer requires trusting God. We must fully trust in his power, purpose, promises, and plans.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240811110000
Things are not always as they appear. Jesus will use a fig tree to illustrate that the appearance of life does not mean that there is any real fruit. This will be an important principle as he addresses the appearance of life but the lack of spiritual fruit in the Temple.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240804110000
Jesus has already challenged his disciples to live lives of service and sacrifice. He has continued to explain what that means and how it should work in day to day living. Now, as he enters the last week of his earthly ministry, he will model it for them in the greatest act of service and sacrifice.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240728110000
Often our own agendas, life's pressures and problems, and unexpected circumstances cause us to be distracted and self-focused. In our distraction, we can fail to even notice those around us who are hurting and need help. In this passage, Jesus sets the example of service and sacrifice at a very difficult time in his life and ministry.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240721110000
In times of political turmoil, or any difficulties in our lives, where do we turn for comfort and relief. True comfort and relief will not be found through human devices but only in God.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240714110000
God hates pride. Pride is at the heart of all sin and promotes self-gratification and self-promotion. God requires, honors, and blesses humility. Jesus calls his children to lives of self-denial, service and sacrifice. These are the characteristics that mark true greatness.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240707110000
What do you consider to be the greatest treasure of your life? How are you investing your life? What is the center of who you are and how you live? The answers to these questions will not only impact your life now but for all eternity.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240630110000
Jesus uses children and a rich, young ruler to further explain what it means to follow him. Coming to God through Jesus demands a childlike trust and faith rather than trying to do something ourselves to earn that privilege.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240623110000
In an attempt to discredit Jesus and alienate him from the crowds, the Pharisees question him about the emotionally charged topic of divorce. Instead of getting caught up in all of the debates of the day, Jesus takes them back to the scriptural model for marriage and the authority of God under which it was instituted.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240616110000
Jesus' instructions to his disciples includes an extreme picture of the seriousness of sin. As his disciples, we are responsible to live our lives in such a way that they do not cause others to fall into sin. Sin must be dealt with in a drastic way because it destroys lives and condemns men to hell.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240609110000
Jesus will spend a large portion of the last part of his ministry teaching his disciples. One of the most important lessons will be that of humble service. The greatest obstacle to this lesson is that most of us are not as interested in serving as in being served, in giving as in receiving, in pursuing God's way as in getting our own way, in being the least as in being the greatest.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240602110000
How strong is your faith? Your faith will be tested by the trials and difficulties of life. When your faith is tested, where will you turn? Will you turn in dependent prayer to your Lord for the spiritual strength that you need or will you try to deal with things in your own wisdom and power?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240526110000
Jesus' declaration that as the Messiah he must suffer, die, be buried, and rise from the dead left his disciples confused and dismayed. They were anticipating the beginning of a glorious kingdom led by their Messiah. Jesus death did not figure into their plans. God would use the Transfiguration to get their attention and give them a brief look at the glory and majesty of Jesus.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240519110000
What does it mean to follow Jesus? What does Jesus expect of those who follow him? How important is the answer to these questions? Your response to Jesus' invitation to follow him will determine your eternal destiny.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240512110000
One of the most important questions for you to answer is found in Mark 8:29. Who is Jesus? The answer to that question and what you do with that answer will determine your eternal destiny. While there are many different responses to that question, only the answer given by Peter on this occasion will lead you to eternal life.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240505110000
Jesus deals with the topic of spiritual blindness in this section of the gospel of Mark. He addresses the complete spiritual blindness of the Pharisees, the partial blindness of the disciples, and the need for clear vision through the healing of the blind man.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240428110000
Jesus and his disciples move into Gentile territory in seek of rest. However, God has arranged several divine appointments for them instead. They will experience a woman with great faith, an amazing healing, and a needy crowd miraculously satisfied. All of this as a demonstration that the gospel message is for the Jew first but also for the Gentiles.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240421110000
What does a life that is pleasing to God look like? Is it the adherence to an external list of religious rules and traditions or is it something more? Can we be "religious" and not please God? Jesus is going to teach that it is a matter of the heart.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240414110000
Even as we attempt to walk with Jesus, there are times when life's circumstances can feel overwhelming. During those times, it is easy to struggle with our faith and lose sight of Jesus. That is when we need to focus on him the most, remember who he is, and truly worship him.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240407110000
The resurrection is the essential truth apart from which there is no Christianity. It is the climax of the gospel story! It is the truth that brings us hope! Following the his resurrection, Jesus opens the minds of his disciples not only to understand this truth but to proclaim it to the world.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240331110000
The feeding of the five thousand is one of only two miracles that appear in all four of the Gospels. Although it is an amazing story, the significance of the miracle goes far beyond the fact that Jesus was able to feed this multitude. This story is also an illustration of compassion, service, and the sufficiency of our savior.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240324110000
Faithfulness to God does not always equate to favor with men. Jesus stated that no greater prophet had arisen than John the Baptist. Yet, John's ministry would last only about a year and he would die a violent death at 30 years of age. Why would God allow King Herod to behead John the Baptist?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240317110000
Immediately after raising Jarius' daughter from the dead, Jesus returns to Nazareth. However, instead of the popularity he has experienced in Capernaum, he is rejected by the people of his hometown. Their unbelief shortens his ministry there and teaches his disciples and us a valuable lesson about handling rejection.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240310110000
Up to this point in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus has already established his authority over sickness, nature, demons and his authority to forgive sins. In this encounter, we will see the demonstration of his authority over disease, over death, and his power to save.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240303110000
Shortly after demonstrating his authority over nature in the calming of the storm, Jesus will again demonstrate his authority as the Son of God. As he comes to the shore with his disciples, they will be met by a demon-possessed man whom no one had been able to restrain. In dealing with this man, Jesus will further demonstrate the power and authority of the Son of God.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240225110000
Though his disciples had seen Jesus heal many people and cast out many demons, they had never experienced anything like the display of authority and power in the calming of the storm. The power of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, would be on display not only for his glory but also for the growth of the disciples' faith.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240218110000
Following the Parable of the Sower and the Soils, Jesus continues to teach in parables. He is revealing truth about the nature of the gospel, the spread of the gospel, and the impact of the gospel as the kingdom of God grows.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240211110000
As Jesus continues his teaching ministry, he begins teaching in parables. The first parable in the Gospel of Mark is the Parable of the Sower. This is not only the first parable that Mark records, but according to Jesus it is also important to understanding all of the parables that he will teach.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240204110000
As we look at the end of Mark chapter 3, we see that the teachings of Jesus and the accompanying miracles of his ministry can only lead to one of three conclusions. He is either a lunatic, a liar, or the Lord. The questions for you is, after being confronted with the truth and it’s evidence, what will you do with Jesus? The answer to that question will determine your relationship with God and your eternal destiny.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240128110000
As the opposition to Jesus grows, his popularity with the masses continues to increase. In the midst of the enormous pressures of his ministry, Jesus takes time to focus on the priorities of his ministry. We will see from the example of Jesus that the measure of success in ministry is not the size of the crowds but the individuals whose lives are changed.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240121110000
In his last confrontation with the Pharisees, Jesus emphasized that a proper understanding of who he is as the bridegroom and the joy that his presence should bring is more important that ritual observances. In this encounter, he will demonstrate that compassion for others in need is more important that legalistic observance of the sabbath.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240114110000
We live in a day where truth has become relative and tolerance is the objective when it comes to religion and doctrine. However, in his confrontation with the Pharisees over fasting, Jesus will make it clear that the truth of who he is and the message of the gospel is absolute. You cannot add to it, change it, or adapt it to your preferences.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20240107110000
The call of Levi to discipleship is a vivid illustration of the compassion and mercy of Jesus. It highlights the purpose of his ministry and demonstrates how the power of the gospel defies the culture pressures of the day.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20231217110000
How strong is your faith in Jesus? How do you handle life when your faith seems to encounter difficulties? Is your faith strong enough that it can be clearly seen by others?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20231210110000
Where do you turn when the difficulties of life have you discouraged and your hope is almost gone? The leper in Mark 1 is in that exact position. As we see this story unfold, we find that our hope is found in Jesus. He has the power to cleanse and restore our lives.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20231203110000
Life can get extremely busy. The pressure to accomplish our objectives for the day is very real. As we take a look at a day in the life of Jesus, we see that he had to deal with those same issues but on a much larger scale. What were his priorities in the midst of a demanding schedule? How did he stay focused on what was truly important?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20231126110000
As Jesus' ministry begins to spread, we quickly see him exercising the authority of the Son of God. He demonstrates his authority in the way that he calls his followers, in the way that he teaches, and in the way that he deals with demons and disease. His fame spreads throughout the entire region as people witness the power of God in their midst.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20231119110000
Often in the midst of our difficulties, we feel like God is not speaking to us. However, at times God will communicate to us through unexpected people who point us to the truth when we cannot see it. Are you listening to God?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230903110000
Difficult circumstances and conflict in our lives can leave us emotionally and physically drained. Not understanding why God is working in the way that he appears to be working can add stress to our situation. At times like these, we need to be careful with our words because of the impact that they have on others and the fact that God will judge us according to our words.
Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230723110000
We cannot control the all of the circumstances in our lives, but we can control our response to those circumstances. Often, we struggle with our response because our focus is in the wrong place. Friends and family may fail us, but God will never fail us.
Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230716110000
There is danger when we attempt to understand God based on our personal experiences. Job's three friends misinterpreted God and his manner of dealing with Job through the eyes of their own experience. Job struggles with why God has dealt with him so harshly. Are you struggling with the circumstances in your life because you fail to understand who God is and how he works?
Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230709110000
Oh, that God would speak! In the midst of his speech to Job, Zophar utters the most important truth that any of Job's friends would speak. As we deal with suffering, the difficulties in our lives, and the circumstances that may be out of our control, we need God's perspective and God's wisdom.
Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230702110000
God is always just. His ways are always perfect. So what do we do when things don't look that way to us? Unlike Bildad, we need to avoid making rash judgments about others. Unlike Job in this passage, we need to be careful not to question the way that God is working.
Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230625110000
Though Eliphaz had good intentions, his lack of understanding concerning God and Job caused him to not only misinterpret the situation but to offer bad counsel. In his response, Job will seek vindication while further verbalizing his deep internal struggles. What lessons can we learn from Job's reaction?
Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230611110000
Job's friends came to offer comfort and sympathy but something went terribly wrong. Rather than receiving comfort, Job became more irritated and frustrated. Why did things not go as intended and what can we learn from this situation?
Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230604110000
When going through difficult circumstances and suffering, one of the most dangerous conversations is the one that we have with ourselves. Struggling to find the why in our circumstances can lead us to discontent, despair and depression if our internal conversations are not governed by the truth of the Word of God. Worry, anger, complaining, despair, and depression are all by products of unbiblical thinking, unbiblical expectations, and discontent with the circumstances that God has allowed to come into our lives.
Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230528110000
Trials and suffering sometimes last longer than we anticipated or they may come in waves. Can we continue to trust God when he doesn't take our suffering away as quickly as we think that he should? Can we trust him when the suffering comes in waves instead of being taken away?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230521110000
God describes Job as blameless, upright and God-fearing. In fact he states that there was no one like him on the earth. Yet, God will allow Satan to test Job's faith intensely. How does Job react to this testing and what can we learn from it?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230514110000
Books of the Bible, especially of the Old Testament, that are long and difficult often receive attention to only a few of the popular passages or sometimes are neglected all together. Job has been one of those books. While people enjoy study the first couple of chapters and the last couple of chapters, the rest of the book is often ignored. However, this book has a rich message concerning the nature of life, the nature of man and the nature of God.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230507110000
What do we do with a book like the letter of Paul to Titus as we finish this study? Why did Paul write this letter to Titus and what are we supposed to take away from it? What are we supposed to do with the truths contained in this letter? Will you embrace the truths of this book and allow them to change your life or will you walk away from it unchanged?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230423110000
The benefits and understanding of grace are so important to the daily lives of Christians that Paul will emphasize the need to avoid letting any other influences impact our relationships as he closes this letter. He concludes his letter to Titus in much the same way as he began it. Paul warns against false teaching and teachers, gives instructions for living in grace, and closes with a blessing based on grace.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230416110000
All too often life’s circumstances cause us to be anxious, to doubt, to fear, to fail to remember that God is in control. The reality of the difficulties that we are facing distracts us from the truth that we have heard so many times from the Word of God or it does not feel real in midst of our trials and circumstances. Hurt, loss, frustration, regret, despair, anger, worry, self-pity can all overwhelm us and make it hard to see what God is doing. Is there hope in the midst of all of this? How do we regain a proper focus and get back on track? Where do we get the power to keep moving forward and go on? There is truth, there is hope, there is power, there is salvation in the risen Savior!Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230409110000
A foundation of sound doctrine is critical for a healthy church community. Biblical thinking is intended to produce biblical living. Each generation within the church is responsible to think biblically, to act biblically, and to teach and model biblical truths to others for the glory of God.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230305110000
In Titus chapter 2, Paul shifts his focus from the leadership to the congregation. He emphasizes the importance of every believer’s involvement in the community life of the church. Older men and women are vital to the spiritual health of the church. Therefore, Paul admonishes them to live and serve in a manner appropriate to the sound teaching of the Word of God.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230226110000
In Titus chapter 2, Paul shifts his focus from the leadership to the congregation. He emphasizes the importance of every believer’s involvement in the community life of the church. As he considers the role that each member of the church should play, Paul addresses the reality that sound doctrine must and will impact the behavior of every member of the body of Christ.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230205110000
Immediately after reminding Titus of the importance of the Word of God and sound doctrine, Paul warns about the dangers and necessary response to false teaching. Paul was concerned with setting things in order in Crete and establishing godly leadership to ensure the healthy growth of the church and the rejection of false teaching. False teachers must be silenced within the church by clinging to the trustworthy Word of God and rebuking them with the truth.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230129110000
Church leaders are important because of whom they represent and because of what they are called to do by the Holy Spirit. As Titus is commissioned to establish elders in every town on the island of Crete, he is to keep in mind that God has a high standard for those who would serve in this capacity. Their character and conduct are important as they labor for the sake of the faith of God’s elect. Why is this the case and does it have any application for you?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230122110000
The Apostle Paul opens his letter to Titus with an assessment of who he is and how that impacts his life. He continues by discussing the focus of his life and the importance of the Word of God in all that he does. As we consider Paul's identity and life mission, how should that impact our perspectives and goals for ourselves in the coming year?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230108110000
Why did Paul write this letter to Titus? What was Titus doing on Crete? Why would Paul send Titus to Crete to work with such a difficult ministry? What was it that drove Paul to continually care for so many churches personally and through the men that he trained?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20230101110000
The story of the birth of Jesus is filled with awe and wonder: a virgin gives birth to the Son of God in the flesh, the angelic host announcing the birth to the shepherds and praising God, the shepherds arriving to find Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. So many glorious events taking place. But how does a manger fit into all of this. Is there any glory to be found in the manger?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20221225110000
As Mary considers all that God is doing in her life, she is overwhelmed. Mary breaks out in praise to God not only for what he has done but also for who he is. As we ponder Mary's wonderful tribute to God, there are some important lessons that we can learn about God and about worship.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20221218110000
As Paul wraps up his second letter to the Thessalonians, he expresses his heart-felt desire for them. He prays for peace that can only come from the Lord. He sets their minds at ease by giving them confidence in the truths that he has just shared. He concludes with a benediction calling for the grace of God to be at work in all of their lives.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20221211110000
When problems are not solved, they grow and become worse. Unresolved issues in the church spread and infect other people. Sin and disobedience in the church will infect the church body in the same way that an untreated infection spreads in your physical body.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20221204110000
As the Apostle Paul brings the letter of 2 Thessalonians to a close, he begins a section of strong exhortation. He starts by requesting prayer for himself and his ministry team. From there he launches into a series of practical instructions for the Thessalonians.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20221127110000
In contrast to the multitudes that will believe what is false and refuse to love the truth and be saved, Paul brings comfort to the Thessalonians based on their relationship to God in Jesus Christ. In just a few short verses, he reassures them, challenges them, and prays for them.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20221120110000
In order to alleviate the fears and concerns of the Thessalonians concerning the evil and suffering that they were experiencing, Paul reminds them of important truths that they already had been taught. It is easy to lose perspective and be led astray from the truth when life is difficult! Even in the midst of their very real trials, Paul reminds the Thessalonians that God has a plan and he is actively working out that plan.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20221113110000
Why do we observe these two ordinances? What is their purpose? How important are they? How do they relate to the ministry of the local church?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20221106110000
Living in a world that opposes much of God’s truth and resents those who support it, how are we to react to these things? What is God’s plan for the future and how should we react to the persecution and suffering that we endure as we see his plan unfold?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20221030110000
Every day, as we interface with others, we have a choice to make. We can spread negativity or encouragement, discord or peace and unity, despair or hope. The impact that we make will be dictated in many ways by what we believe about the way that God is working through the circumstances of our lives.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220925110000
As the Thessalonians anticipated the Lord's return, they were responsible to live godly lives and continue to grow in the faith. Paul began by addressing their relationship with their spiritual leaders. In this passage, he addresses their responsibilities towards each other.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220911110000
In this passage, Paul begins a series of direct exhortations to the Thessalonians to continue on and grow in their Christian walk. As they anticipated the Lord's return, they were responsible to live godly lives and continue to grow in the faith. Paul begins this section by discussing the relationship between pastors and the people.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220904110000
Paul refers to Christians as children of the light not of the darkness. He describes the duties of those who are children of the light as well as their ultimate destiny in relation to the day of the Lord. As he prepares to leave the Thessalonian believers with some final instructions, he reminds them of who they are and how that reality should impact their daily lives.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220814110000
Two of the greatest questions on the minds of people are addressed in 1 Thessalonians chapters 4 and 5. What happens after death and what will happen at the end of the world? Paul not only addresses these two questions but explains that our relationship with Jesus Christ is the key to being ready for both of these inevitable events.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220807110000
Jesus instructed his disciples in John 14 that he would be leaving to prepare a place for them. Afterwards, he would come again to take them to be with him. However, what happens to Christians who have died in the meantime? What will it be like when Jesus does return for his children?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220724110000
God has specific instructions in his Word regarding His will for your life. A foundational element of His will for you is your sanctification. God wants you to live differently from the culture around you. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-12, Paul gives us specific ways in which we are to live in order to have lives that are pleasing to God.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220710110000
Paul has just expressed his prayer for God to do a wonderful work in the Thessalonian believers. Now he turns to their responsibility. There is a way to live our lives that pleases God and we are expected to live that way. Sound Biblical instruction is not the end of the process, it is the beginning. What are you doing with the instruction that you receive from the Lord through his Word and his people?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220703110000
When was the last time that you stood in awe and wonder as you considered who God is and all that God has done and will do? As Paul contemplated all that had happened, was happening and would continue to happen in the lives of the Thessalonians, he stood in awe of his great God and his Savior. Out of that spirit of awe and thanksgiving, Paul expresses his prayer for the Thessalonians, a prayer that would impact their lives and should change our lives as well.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220626110000
In our culture we tend to view suffering, persecution and hardship as outside of the norm. Many Christians are frustrated or even angered when they experience any of these things. What is the biblical teaching and expectation when it comes to suffering and persecution? How should these things affect our lives and attitudes?Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220619110000
Will obeying and believing the gospel automatically lead to a life of ease without any difficulties? At times the gospel has been presented in this manner. However, Paul is going to remind us that Christians will encounter unexpected circumstances and unanticipated consequences at times, but God is at work in them for our good and his glory.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220612110000
As Paul continues to defend his ministry to the Thessalonians, he gives us a unique picture of the appropriate way to give and to receive the Word of God. In a day and age when relative truth has replaced the absolute truth of the Word of God, it is critically important we share the gospel of God with people. Paul is going to beautifully illustrate in this passage that it is not only important what we tell people, but how we do it.Original link can be found at https://bethanybiblechurch.net/resources/singlesermon.php?link=20220605110000