It's Time for The Word: Recent Episodes
Pleasant Grove Church
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Get ready for the word! The Holy Book has spoken, and we're diving into the good news of Luke 1:28-38 with the wise guidance of our pastor, John Perry. So, take a deep breath and get ready to embrace the heavenly journey ahead!
Scriptural References Old Testament Scriptures:
Faithful 1 Samuel 1:12-17 •
Focused… Nehemiah 6:2-4 •
Fearless Daniel 6:19-23
New Testament • Philippians 4:11-13(NIV)
Points to Ponder:
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God created all of us with a purpose for our lives. We will never reach fulfillment until we are poisoned to pursue the path God has uniquely designed for us. Our lives must be anchored in FAITH, believing God will always be our personal Counsel.
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Secondly, we must be FOCUSED at all times, only yielding to the voice of Almighty God. The world is filled with distractions. Unfortunately, the Church is not exempt, and we also hear the noise from the enemy.
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Finally, we must be FEARLESS and always stand on the promises of God. Yes, the enemy will attempt to frighten and destroy us, but we must be dressed in the full armor of God!
2 Chronicles 20:13-30
James 2:14-17
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Take your concerns to the Lord.
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Follow Instructions
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Stand Firm
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God will deliver.
Trusting God in the wilderness
- A place of transition
- A place on testing
- A place of blessing
The Church was established to continue the “Mission” of our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ! The Great Commission captures our responsibilities (to Go, Baptize & Teach) as we function as Disciples of Jesus Christ! Are you making Disciples? Do you know the Key Ingredients?
n Acts, Chapter 14, we observe the responses to rejection of the Missionaries/Apostles (Paul &Barnabas). We must notice that their responses were based on the Gospel of Jesus Christ! There are three lessons learned from this text:
- Our Struggles stretch us & help us to grow spiritually…
- Our Surroundings shape us & influence our perspective…
- Our Spiritual Connection to God sustains us when the enemy attacks…
A primary goal in our lives should be receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. When we are filled with the Spirit we are transformed & become committed Believers. The evidence of our transformation will be expressed in three ways.
- We will be empowered by the Holy Spirit…
- We will be excited to share the good news of the Gospel…
- We will equip others to evangelize in the name of Jesus…
Trust is defined as firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something. Trust in the 21st Century is hard to come by. We used to say seeing is believing but in this day with current technology people can fake just about anything. With the current artificial intelligence technology, people can have you saying and doing things that sounds like you, but you never did them. Therefore, since anything can be falsified this day in age, it is no wonder that we have a trust problem. We do not seem to trust anyone or anything. Husbands no longer trust wives and wives no longer trust husbands. Americans no longer trust their government and the people who lead it. Parishioners no longer trust their pastors or church leaders. In short, we are no longer willing to trust anyone or anything. To know whether you really trust Jesus, we must be willing to do certain things and stop doing other things. 1. Stop making excuses and be accountable. 2. Stop grumbling. But to really demonstrate that we trust Jesus, we must be willing to the following: 1. Build a relationship with Jesus.
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Carry our Cross
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Understand that there is no such thing as an “Uncontested Blessing.”
The Bible teaches us how to portray Godly Love in our lives. Active Love is an indicator of our relationship with Almighty God! Those who do not demonstrate Agape Love have no fellowship with God. Therefore, we must be intentional daily in seeking opportunities to serve & love others as God has loved us through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ!
3 And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: “Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king’s palace any more than all the other Jews. 14 For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
15 Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai: 16 “Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!”
Scriptures: Genesis 50:22-26 and Joshua 24:31-32
-God faithfully fulfilled his promise to Abraham
-Joseph was faithful to his people, and his people were faithful to him.
Old Testament: Proverbs 4: 20-23
New Testament: Revelation 3:7-11
Speaker: Pastor Classy
Podcast Summary:
One could make a strong case that the letters to Smyrna and Philadelphia are the most important ones of the seven churches, for in neither of them do we find one word of complaint. They both receive unqualified praise and approval. These, then, are truly churches of which Christ heartily approves.
In this text, we find a four-fold description of Jesus, again taken from the visionary portrait of him.
First, Jesus is called The Holy One – An unmistakable title for Yahweh in the OT (Isa. 40:25) here applied to Jesus.
Second, Jesus is called The True One – To the Greek mind this would mean “genuine,” that which is real and thus corresponds to reality. To the Hebrew mind it means “faithful” and “trustworthy,” deserving of our confidence, dependable, reliable, consistent and steadfast.
Third, Jesus is The One who has the Key of David – He has the undisputed authority to admit or exclude from the New Jerusalem. The idea is that Jesus has the key to the Davidic or messianic kingdom.
Fourth, Jesus is The One who opens and no one else can shut – When he opens to his followers the door of the kingdom, no one can shut them out; and when he shuts the door on those who oppose his cause, no one can reverse the decision.
OUR FOCUS IS ON THE LETTER TO THE CHURCH AT PHILADELPHIA (REVELATION 3:7-13)
Speaker: Rev. Paula Smith Sawyer
Ezekiel 32: 25 -32
Romans 12: 1-2
Change is constant in our lives. Just like the Israelites, we are often resistant to change and life as the Lord would have for us. The Israelites had to endure famine, slavery, and much hardship before they put their trust in God and were willing to be transformed.
The Lord is available to us just as He was to the Israelites. The same God who delivered His people is available to transform us as we face so much change in our lives. It’s time to make some changes, get back to God, and live the life He desires for us, His people of today.
Old Testament Scripture: Genesis 3:1-10 (NIV)
3 Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” 2 The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, 3 but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’” 4 “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5 “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. 8 Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. 9 But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” 10 He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.”
New Testament: Revelation 3:14-22 (NIV)
To the Church in Laodicea
14 “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:
These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. 17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.
19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. 21 To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Sermon Title: Are you being seduced by the Enemy?
Podcast Summary:
The city of Laodicea was a well-defended city on a hill, famous for banking, finance, fashion, and pharmaceuticals. It’s one major issue was a lack of water, but being a wealthy city, aqueducts had been constructed to alleviate the situation. Aqueducts brought in hot water from the north and cold water from the east, but by the time the water reached Laodicea, both sources had grown lukewarm.
Jesus told the church at Laodicea that they were just like the water there- lukewarm. The members of this church were indifferent and apathetic- they were going through the motions. Their focus was no longer on the cross, scripture, or even reaching the lost. They had lost their passion for God and the refreshing and renewing power of the Gospel. Like many churches today, Laodicea enjoyed power, wealth, and influence and thought these things made them perfect, but they were unmoved by the things of God. What do you have in common with the Church of Laodicea?
The Fall
Take and listen to Disciple Kim Dupree Bragg delivers her message about how she overcame being "Beautifully Broken."
Disciple Kim Dupree Bragg delivers a powerful message of how she overcame being "Beautifully Broken."
Old Testament: Isaiah 61:1-3
New Testament: 2 Corinthians 3: 17-18
Speaker: Pastor Classy
According to scripture God’s Promises will be fulfilled. We are now living under God’s Favor & His wrath is yet to come. Therefore, we should immediately examine ourselves spiritually by God’s standards. Many have tried to be saved by keeping the Old Testament Law which is tied to ceremonies & rules. But now, through the Holy Spirit, God provides Freedom from Sin & Condemnation. When we trust Jesus Christ to save us, he removes our heavy burdens & failures. The Bible teaches us “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is Freedom!
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 20: 1-131.
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Taking the matter to God
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Listening for instruction from God
- Trusting the words of God4.
Celebrating the word of GodKing Jehoshaphat was in deep trouble and turned to the only help that could give him victory in his crises.
Scriptures: John 3:16 Luke 6: 43-45
- Jesus sees that good trees bear good fruit. God is glorified when we produce an abundance of good fruit.
2. God created man for fruitfulness.
3. Fruitfulness is an expression of a good heart formed by God as we engage in spiritual practices that help us to be transformed by God's grace.
Scripture: John 8:31-47 "The Father of Lies or The Father of Truth."
How the Religious Leaders were Representing the Father of Lies and Belief in the lie they had God’s approval because they were descendants of Abraham (John 8:33) Resorts to insults, including smearing Jesus’s birth showing rejection of the Truth (John 8:41)
Wanting to kill Jesus (John 8:44) How Abraham was Representing the Father of Truth. He heard & believed God’s Word (Heb 11:8 & 17) He trusted & obeyed God’s Word (Gen 12 & 22) He wanted to celebrate Jesus (John 8:56)
How to be a True Representative of the Father of Truth and Abiding in Jesus will make you a Representative of the Father of Truth (John 15: 1-6) Over time you will look more like the Heavenly Father - The Father of Truth and Over time you will produce attributes/characteristics (Fruits) that resemble the Father of Truth
Pastor Classy's 25th Pastoral Anniversary and Birthday Celebration With special guest, Rev. Dr. David C. Forbes.
The Division In The Church is caused by four main problems.
1. A Clique, a small exclusive group of people, and can be considered a circle, a posse or a club that share the same interest and opinion.
2. Factions, a group of clique within a larger group, party government, organization, or the like typically having different opinions and interest than the larger group.
3. Division, a group of organisms forming part of a larger group something that divides or separates. Separation by difference of opinion or feelings, disagreement or dissention.
4. Acts of Apostasy, which is believers rejecting the real truth. Believer’s who turn aside from following Jesus and deny Him after having previously confessed Him as Lord.
Scripture reference
1 Cor. 2:9-14, 1 Cor. 4:1-5
Mother's Day service 2023
Speaker: Nytasha Tobias Old Testament: Proverbs 31: 26-31
New Testament: Philippians 4: 6-7
Jesus teaches the Disciples through a conversation about the past, present & future!
- Jesus encourages the Disciples to Believe and not be Troubled…
- Jesus shares the way directly to the Father through him…
- Jesus teaches the Disciples the benefits of commitment to the Father…
Jesus assures the Disciples of the eternal Faithfulness of Almighty God!
We as Christians spend a lot of time encouraging people to have faith. However, once people have faith do we teach them how hang on to their faith. Today, we are living in a world where a lot of people, especially young people do not necessarily see the relevance of God in their life. The enemy is deceiving them into thinking that God has become ill-relevant. They are starting to believe they will make without coming to church, with coming to Bible study, and without being in fellowship with other believers. Recently, I had a conversation with a minister friend of mine and his biggest disappointment and challenge is that his young adult children do not see the relevancy of God in their life. I have recently been checking in with young people in their twenties and thirties, they disclose to me that their biggest challenge life is that they do not have network of believers of their own age around them that take their relationship with God seriously. The world is telling them that they all they need is money and everything will be okay. The world is telling them that God has abandon them when they have adversity like death in the family, loss of job, or failure of relationships. As I reflected on my time as youth pastor, I asked myself the following: Did I teach the young people how to fight for their faith?
Points to consider:
- Focus on the Fruits of the Spirit
- Hold on to your faith because your life depends on it
- Have Courage and Trust God
When we surrender our lives to the Holy Spirit, God will use us to do exceedingly and more abundantly than we can think or imagine.Key Points:1- The Disciples Found their Spiritual Voice2- The Disciples Discover Their Calling3- The Disciples Experienced Unimaginable Transformation
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene & gives her the Courage to Bear witness to His Resurrection!11 Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.13 They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?”“They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.15 He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?”Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.”16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.”She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”).17 Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Fathe.May our days be filled with Joy because Jesus has Risen!Show less
Matthew focuses on the Messianic mission of Jesus’s life. The arrival of the Messiah King into the capital city of Jerusalem was a hope that deeply resonated within the hearts of Jews. Jesus reminded the disciples what would happen to the Son of Man in Jerusalem after they arrived. Jesus said three things would happen to Him when they arrived in Jerusalem.
The first thing was the Son of Man will be delivered to the chief priests and scribes. Jesus was not only foretelling His disciples that He would be arrested, but He would also be delivered to His enemies.
The second thing was that the chief priest and scribes would hand the Son of Man over to the Gentiles who would mock, scourge, and crucify Him.
The third thing, Jesus reminded His disciples what would take place on the third day after these terrible events occurred, the Son of Man will be raised up. Jesus promised He would come back to life three days after He was killed.
To finish off "Women's History Month" take a listen to Rev. Dr. Paula Smith Sawyer preach the importance of pruning yourself for fruitfulness.
Take a listen to Rev. Dr. Christina Jones experience during the attack at the Pentagon on September 11th. Listen as she tells "Her" story of how God's love turned her panic into peace.
God created us for His Purpose, and we must always be aware of His Expectations of us. In this life, there will be times when we are tempted to sin. In those moments, we must be willing & disciplined to cry out to God!
As we reflect on the Word of God, we must be willing to ask our Heavenly Father to do the following:
- Give us a desire to Serve you…
- Give us a desire to Seek your Face…
- Give us a desire to Study your Word…
- Give us a desire to be successful in our Struggles with Sin…
In the parable recorded in (Matthew 25:31-40) Jesus shares the details of the last judgment & the return of the Son of Man. The parable uses Sheep as symbolic of good people, and goats as symbolic of evil ones. The Church must be aware of the commitment we have made to Kingdom Work in the name of Jesus. Significantly, the person we will encounter at the Last Judgment is Jesus Christ Himself.
In the meantime, we must focus on the following:
- God has Expectations of us…
- We must provide Evidence of our Love for God through our service…
- In the end, we will have an Encounter with Jesus…
Until we meet our God face to face me must remain faithful & preserve…
Speaker: LaCelle Wilborn
Old Testament Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:11-13
New Testament Bible Verse: 1 Timothy 4:8-16
Summary
God teaches us via the Prophet Jeremiah (1:5 & 29:11-13) and King David (Psalm 139 , specifically verse 14) that He knew us before we were formed in the womb and that we were wonderfully made according to His plans and purpose. The second part of the story introduces young Timothy under the guidance of the Apostle Paul 1 Timothy 4:8-16 and 2 Timothy 2:15). Here a young disciple of Jesus Christ is told not to let anyone look down on him because he is young, but to set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. That he (Timothy) was not too young to Worship God, Witness for God, not Work for God. The 3rd and final part of the conversation ends with a challenge to use what God has given individuals to His glory, honor and praise via a poem written by Edgar A. Guest entitled "Equipment" read by George Washington Carver in 1942.
Key Takeaway Thoughts
We were ALL created and wonderfully made by God and have great purpose according to His plan, but the individual must choose the path they will follow.
Age should not prevent an individual from Worshiping God, Witnessing for God, nor Working for God.
We are ALL properly equipped to do the will of God now.
Scripture: Acts 9:1-18
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Giving assurances through difficult times
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Getting insight while having a personal encounter with Jesus
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Learning to build trust in God's Word
I will talk about three vessels God uses through difficult times and how we too can be victorious overcoming life's challenges..
The Bible gives us clear examples of what it means to be a Friend. David was a friend to Jonathan & Jesus genuinely loved the Disciples.
“The Bible says a real friend sticks closer than a brother.”True friends are supportive and reliable. There is a known saying that says, “blood is thicker than water.” this Bible verse shows that good friendships create bonds that go even deeper than blood relationships. Proverbs 18:24
Good friends stick around long enough to know when we are sad, broken, and frustrated. They also know when we are happy and full of joy. Loyal friends are always by our side. They are always supportive of our important endeavors, they gracefully correct us when we are wrong, and they congratulate us on our achievements.
According to the Bible first and foremost, Jesus is our best friend. He is the one we should go to before going to anyone for help, counsel, comfort, etc.He shows us how to be a good friend and what a true friend looks like, as he demonstrated this with the disciples. Studying how he lived and how he interacted with the disciples show us how to be a friend.
This starts with love. He loved others above himself. We must do the same in our relationships with others. “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13, NIV)
When someone has the motivation to love in their heart, it shows they are a good friend because they are following Jesus’s example. I have concluded there are 3 key components of Friendship.
- Love – defined by God…
- Loyalty – reflecting the character of God…
- Language – aligned with God’s Word…
The word “Doubt” is rooted in Latin. It means “two” and in this context I want you to notice the close association between the word, “doubt” and the word, “double.” To doubt is to waver between belief and disbelief. Wavering between two choices is where doubt gets its name. By contrast, Faith is a constant belief in
the Power, Promises & Presence of Almighty God in our daily lives.! True Faith never wavers, regardless of our circumstances! All of us have moments of doubt & insecurity but Jesus takes the time to comfort His disciples during their storm and strengthened their Faith!
Old Testament: Psalm 33: 1-8
New Testament: Revelations 5: 9-10
Throughout various places in the Bible, we are instructed to sing to God a new song. The following scripture reference, a new song: Psalm 40: 3, 96:1, 98:1, 144:9, 149:1, Isaiah 42:10, & Revelations: 14: 3. What does it mean to sing to God a new song? And why should we sing “new” song? Singing is a form of praise and worship, and our God is worthy to be praised. We should always have a “new” song ready because it prevents our praise and worship from being stale, predictable, and routine. God’s creation should keep us wonder-struck and should inspire us to stay focus on him and remember who He is. Singing a “new” song will help us focus on the following:
- Remaining unified as a body
- Remaining hopeful even as we are being attack by the enemy
- Remaining focused on praise and worship
- Remembering victory is guarantee
The parable of the Ten Virgins teaches us how to prepare wisely to meet the Lord at His Second Coming. The setting of the parable of the Ten Virgins is a wedding , and it is also known as the parable of the Bridesmaids, or the parable of the Bridegroom. Jesus is sharing with his Disciples about the “Future”, the signs of His return & the importance of remaining Faithful as they watch & wait. As we wait for our Lord’s return we must:
1) Awake – Be Alert & aware of the Bridegroom’s return…
2) Arise – We must live In a state of readiness for our Lord’s return…
3) Go Forth – With our Lamps trimmed & burning , the light of the Holy Spirit will dwell within us & bear light to a dark world.
Old Testament: Job 19:23-27
New Testament: Galatians 6:9
On this episode of "The Word" Doctor Pastor Classy Preston speaks on how The book of Job teaches us to Trust in God under all Circumstances & keep an Eternal Perspective.
Job teaches us three important lessons:
Whenever our Lives are in Chaos, we must continue to trust in the Promises of Almighty God.
Job teaches us three important lessons of Life: 1) We must continuously Praise God despite our Life Circumstances.
2) When we invite our Friends into our personal lives, we must be certain of their relationship with Almighty God.
3) We must be prepared to rebuke the Enemy whenever we are faced with attacks & challenges of Life.
The favor of God does not exempt us from hardships. But it gives us confidence and faith that all things will work together for our good according to God’s perfect will for our lives.
Mary's beautiful song of praise is commonly called the Magnificat, from the Latin for "magnify". Mary magnifies the Lord, proclaiming God's greatness and rejoicing in God as Savior. She begins with God's actions in her own life, for in choosing her to be the mother of the Messiah, the Mighty One has indeed "done great things for her." God wants to do great things through us as we share the birth of our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
As we move through the Advent season, we must focus on four core values: Hope, Joy, Peace & Love. Advent presents us with an opportunity to look back on our spiritual journey & identify things we can do better in the name of Jesus!
Questions for Reflection:
- God loves the unlovable, do you?
- Who is your Gomer?
- What false gods are you chasing?
- Are you willing to obey God at any cost?
- Have you broken your covenant with God?
Speaker: Reverend Marlin Jones
Podcast Summary:
The setting of Psalm 30 is unclear. Several scholars believe this Psalm was written after David’s sin of numbering the Israelites. This story is found in 1 Chronicles 21, where God gives David a choice between 3 options for punishment. He could have three years of famine, three months of being swept away by the sword of his enemies, or three days of a plague at the hands of an angel of the Lord. David chose to fall in the hands of the Lord because His mercy is great. Therefore, Israel was hit with the plague. David pleaded with God for him to take the punishment and not the people because he was the one who sinned and not the people. Then David, as instructed by the angel of the Lord, when up and dedicated Araunah’s threshing floor by building an altar there and worshiping God. Then God told the angel to put his sword back in the sheath. It is unclear whether the plague struck David himself, as some commentators believe, while others believe the emotional distress was too much for David because it was his sin that caused the death of the people. Here are the things we can learn from David:
- Praise God during your trouble.
- Remember, it is not about your plan, but it’s about God’s plan.
- Overconfidence will be your downfall.
- Remember where your help comes from.
Speaker: Minister Karen Moran
Podcast Summary:
What/Who is God Calling you to Next in your life? Your Next is Coming!
- In times of trouble, cry out to the Lord. He has a plan for you.
- The Cave is the place of peace, praise, and preparation for the Next.
- Praise God first with thanksgiving, then make your request known.
- Praise will give you peace – it closes out the voices of the world and surrenders your mind and emotions to the power of God’s heart for you.
- Praise reminds you of who Jesus is, his plans for you, and who you are in Christ Jesus – who you are to Become during trials and tribulation.
- God’s calling prepares you now for the magnitude of what’s coming Next.
Speaker: Disciple Elliott Venson
Podcast Summary:
A time of instantaneous actions has created an expectation of now, not later. Technology has created bountiful new opportunities and provided access to items, food, and clothes at a breakneck pace.
Yet it has cost us our patience with inconveniences and annoyances. This has affected our relationship with God and our understanding of Him.
God moves at a pace known only to Him; we must remain faithful and patient for His plans to unfold.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
From a biblical perspective, Giants are defined as Any human or life situations (Grief, Depression, Stress, or Fear) that cause us anxiety or discomfort. As we reflect on our Giants, we must reflect on the following questions:
- Who or what are your Giants?
- Are you willing to name your Giants?
- What specific steps are you taking to overcome your Giants?
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
For centuries, followers of Jesus have met together to partake in a meal commonly referred to as the Lord’s Supper. Some also refer to the meal as Communion or Eucharist, which comes from the Greek eucharisteo, meaning “to give thanks.” The Lord’s Supper is an invitation into a life that started in the Old Testament when God invited humanity to a meal. Jesus begins His last night with His final preparation of the disciples for life in the coming Kingdom. Jesus wanted the disciples to know that His death would mean the beginning of the New Covenant!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
God is love; therefore, the defining characteristic of Christians & the Church should be love. Everyone who loves has been born of God & knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God because God is love!
Peter gives us three specific ways to keep God's Purpose before us.
1) We must keep God's perfect timing in mind.
2) We must keep a clear mind to exercise self-control.
3) We must remain diligent in prayer & avoid falling asleep.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
My sermon is about the Healing Power of Fervent Prayer. Fervent means having or showing great warmth or intensity of spirit, feeling & enthusiasm. Prayer is spiritual communication between man & God, a two-way relationship in which man should only talk to God but also listen to Him.
In this text, Daniel shares the following lessons of life:
*Learn to live close to God through Prayer & Meditation.
*The conflicts we experience are not always with flesh & blood but against Principalities, Powers, and the Spiritual Hosts of wickedness in heavenly places.
*Prayer has no Power in and of itself; Prayer is wholeheartedly dependent on God.
*The only Prayer that is powerful in its lasting effect is the expression of the life and desires of a righteous individual who walks in a covenant relationship with God.
Speaker: Disciple Valda Chauncey
Podcast Summary:
Hearing from God is sometimes challenging and complex for everyone.
Speaker: Disciple Eddie Mutebi
Podcast Summary:
How do we respond when we face hard times
- Keep the Faith
- Listen to God
- Wait on God
Jesus reminds us that in this world, we will face trouble, go through hard times, and hear bad news, but He promises us that when we go through the fire, we will not be burnt because He is with us. Therefore, let’s keep the faith, listen to God, and wait on Him. We are struck down but not destroyed because He who is in us is greater than the troubles we face!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
In Exodus 33:18, Moses boldly asked, God, Please, show me Your glory. After that, God promised to reveal His presence to Moses & He kept His Promise. Getting to Know God should be the active interest of every human being daily, especially every Christian. God said this to Moses, revealing His character to Moses by words; He proclaimed it to Moses. As this happened, Moses had a powerful spiritual experience rich with feeling and emotion. Yet God didn’t want His revelation to only be in feeling and emotion but connecting to the whole person through His Word, which is a powerful resource.
Speaker: Reverend Paula Smith Sawyer
Podcast Summary:
As we reflect on the life of the paralytic, we come to know that we all have some type of paralysis. Paralysis most commonly means the complete or partial loss of movement or sensation in a body part. There is, however, an additional meaning of paralysis wherein it is defined as a state of powerlessness or incapacity to act. In other words, you are stuck. Today we will see how to become unstuck and find joy in the presence of the Lord.
Speaker: Pastor Dieuner Joseph
Podcast Summary:
No matter our trials and struggles, believers must stick to Jesus who has the power to bring us through.
Speaker: Reverend Tony Cornelious
Podcast Summary:
King David was in anguish thinking God had abandoned him. He cries out for God's presence and deliverance in a powerful tone and imagery. In this lament, David continues to praise God as he learns to continue trusting God.
Speaker: Reverend Julie Bell
Podcast Summary:
1. God is in control. Nothing happens that God is not in control of and nothing takes Him by surprise.
2. Following the manufacturer's instructions will make the task of life easier. God created you, and therefore He knows what is best.
3. Don’t be anxious. It doesn't serve you. Instead, lean into the peace of God, which will guard your heart and your mind.
4. God will deliver from the immediate situation and for all eternity.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
There will be times in our lives when we will be threatened because we are doing what’s right. Ahab told Jezebel all Elijah had done, also how he had executed all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “So let the gods do to me, and more if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time.” When he saw that, he arose and ran for his life, went to Beersheba, which belonged to Judah, and left his servant there. Thanks be to God, Elijah was delivered due to an encounter with Almighty God. Rest assured, God always knows where we are & God will respond to us according to our needs. The question we should ask is, who is your Jezebel?
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
As we mature in our Faith, we should challenge ourselves to follow the instructions & examples of Jesus, not the crowd. When we have defining moments regarding our Giving, we must be willing to exercise the courage to put God first, regardless of what others do or say. Jesus said we should Love the Lord our God with all our heart, all our soul, all our mind & all our strength. Secondly, Jesus taught us that we should Love our neighbors as we love ourselves. There are no commandments greater than these two & our lives should reflect God as our highest priority. Our giving is an act of worship that pleases Almighty God!
Four types of giving according to the Bible:
1. Tithes – Genesis 14:19-20
2. Offerings – 1 Corinthians 9:10-11
3. First Fruits – Deuteronomy 14:22-23
4. Alms/Giving – Matthew 23:23
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
Believers are not exempt from trouble, but we have a Faithful God to fight our battles.
In chapter 20 of 2 Chronicles, we find Jehoshaphat in a situation we will find ourselves in at some point in our lifetime. He is surrounded by a coalition of armies: Moabites, Ammonites, and the Edomites. Have you ever been surrounded by the Enemy? I am sure some of you might ask, who is the enemy?
1: one that is antagonistic to another: one seeking to injure, overthrow, or confound an opponent
2: something harmful or deadly
3: a) a military adversary b) a hostile unit or force.
The writer of 2 Chronicles declares that when the men of the desert were reported to be on the march against Judah, the King did not turn his thoughts to His Army but to God.
Jehoshaphat teaches us four important lessons:
God hears our prayers and supplications…
God moves through Fasting and Prayer…
God responds to our praise and worship…
God delivers on His Promises
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
Psalm 142 was written before David became king. At this point in his life, he was hiding while on the run from Saul. God told Saul David would be king in his place one day. Saul, filled with anger & furious with jealousy, tried to kill David. At some point in our lives, all of us will find ourselves in a Cave. Have you had a moment when it appears everything has gone wrong? Have you ever felt helpless, friendless, and overwhelmed with life? The best thing you can do is pour out your complaint in Prayer to the One who hears every whisper and sees every tear, and ultimately declares He is sufficient for you in all seasons & circumstances of life. David teaches us…
- When in trouble we can Cry out to God - Psalm 30:7-8
- When we Complain God hears us - Psalm 77:1-4
- When we surrender God Comforts us - 1 Chronicles 4:9-10
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
One of the ways we love the Lord our God with all our Heart, all our Soul & all our Mind is through authentic Worship. Let’s quickly explore the components of worship. What are some synonyms of Worship?
- Adoration
- Glory
- Honor
- Praise
- Reverence
The Hebrew word for Worship means to bow down. We bow down to someone not just to honor them, but to say we are giving total allegiance to them. They are the ones to whom we give over authority over our lives. Worship is more than just honoring and adoration, it is a claim of loyalty, and giving command over our lives. Worship involves setting aside ourselves to focus on God’s will for our lives, rather than focus on our own agendas or our own points of view. Worship should pull us out of ourselves to express our love for God!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
Some of the most incredible Worship comes from the most unlikely sources. The woman in the Luke passage was an outcast who had been used and abused. But something about the words and actions of Jesus caused her to bring her most valuable possession and pour it out in an expression of love and Worship. In one moment, she pressed through fear, prejudices, and shame and created one of the most intimate moments of Worship in the Bible. When man’s opinion has declared us “guilty,” there is One who can be touched by our Worship and forgive our sins!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
The Psalmist encourages the people of God to turn from evil and ultimately receive their inheritance from God. The wicked will be cut off and we are encouraged to live “Moral Lives”.
There are three specific benefits when we turn from Evil.
- Possession of God’s land & eternal life.
- The Lord loves justice & we (His Saints) should want to please Him. Therefore, we embrace Justice.
- The “Just” will know the Presence and Power of God and it will keep them through this life.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
The Psalmist helps us to see the contrast between the Righteous & Wicked & God’s response to each. The Wicked steals as he borrows because he “does not repay,” the righteous give out of “mercy” to those who do not have. The Blessed who shows mercy “inherit the earth” (the land) while the cursed who steal are cut off. The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord. The verb for “ordered” means to make firm or establish. The way the righteous walk is directed & confirmed by Yahweh (God).
- God Remembers
- God Restores
- God Rewards
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
Three things we must do to gain access to the Secret Path to Righteousness:
- Rest in the Lord…
- Wait for the Lord…
- Believe the Lord will punish Evil…
Our strength comes when we sit still & “Rest in the Promises of the Lord.” When we rest in the Lord, we are literally silent.
As we wait for the movement of God in our lives, we must pray for an attitude of patience. The Bible teaches us to “Be completely humble, gentle & patient, bearing with one another in love.” We must be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.
We must believe the Lord will protect the poor & humble & punish evil. He shall bring forth His righteousness as the shining light of the world.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
We call a person that writes a psalm a "psalmist." Many Commentators agree that Psalm 37 was probably written by David. The Psalmist saw that many evil people had everything they wanted. They did what they wanted & nobody stopped them. They hurt poor people who did not have very much. The Psalmist began to feel very angry. The Psalmist helps us to understand we should not fret because of evildoers. Rather than worrying about the wicked, the Psalmist encourages the righteous to trust in Yahweh (God) and obey Him. Trust means having security in the Lord & believing the Lord will do good.
Speaker: Minister Dewayne Stewart
Podcast Summary:
June is Men's Health Month, and we will explore the importance of men having friends that will allow them the space to be vulnerable. Men's mental health has become a hot topic due to men not seeking therapy at the same rate as women and accounting for higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. If one of the greatest prophets Elijah can have thoughts of suicide (1 Kings 19:4) and still make it through by leaning on God's Grace and Mercy, then we can too. We all need that safe space to be able to show our true selves as Jesus did to Peter, James, and John, and true friends can provide that space.
Speaker: Reverend Marlin Jones
Podcast Summary:
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.”
This famous quote from Charles Dickens' novel, “Tale of Two Cities”, seems to be applicable today. Obviously, it is in the worst of times when we struggle the most. Like David in Psalm 10, we are asking God: “Where are you? Why do you let the wicked triumph?” We all ask the question: “how are we going to make these difficult times?” It appears that God is silent. He is not! We must do several things to combat this tendency:
1. Learn how to ask questions of God.
2. Remember that it is the wicked who are responsible
3. Call on God and Stand on your Faith
4. Don’t Grow Weary!
Speaker: Pastor Dieuner Joseph
Podcast Summary:
We should never forfeit an opportunity to praise God for His unfailing grace and mercy and for His providential love.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
Hezekiah did 3 things after receiving a devastating message from God:
1) He turned his face to the Wall…
2) He Prayed to God…
3) He Recounted his Faithfulness unto God…
As we move through life we will be confronted with many challenging moments. An established relationship with God empowers us to respond in a spiritual manner.
In this story, God speaks to Hezekiah. The first revelation informs Hezekiah that he will die from the disease in his body. The beauty of what follows is that the Lord shows mercy on Hezekiah. The text literally reads, “I have heard your prayer. I have seen your tears. I will heal you.” This is an amazing revelation into the response of our God during times of extreme grief and suffering.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
Fear is one of the enemy's instruments to perpetrate evil against believers and the Body of Christ. The enemy knows that when he throws a person into panic, the person becomes disorganized, vulnerable, and easy to defeat.
As believers, we must fight back with prayer & faith in Almighty God! What would you do if you received a threatening and unpleasant letter, news, or report? Would you break down and weep as many people often do? That would be an entirely adverse reaction; instead, it would not solve the problem but worsen it.
This message teaches us to pray & trust God when the enemy threatens us with evil reports and satanic letters!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
God’s love for us is demonstrated through every act of kindness we do for one another. Through our service for the needy, our compassion for the lowly, and our benevolence to the poor, His love is demonstrated. I’m often reminded that I don’t do good for others because I am good; for the good that is in me comes from the love God has shown me. For as long as we abide in God, His tender mercies, and Holy Spirit will abide in us and help us to produce fruits of righteousness.
In truth, we do not know how to love. Love is not our native tongue. Jesus teaches us as He has conversations with Peter in John 21. We must learn the language of love from God. To become fluent in the language of love, one must have an intimate relationship with God and allow Him to mold and shape us according to His perfect will. Then we will be able to:
• Pray for those who despise us
• Forgive those who hurt us
• Love those who hate us.
Speaker: Deacon Sherine Leake
Podcast Summary:
The lyrics to this song are primarily the story of great expectations. The hope God so freely provides when we trust him in the process. It’s a message of encouragement.
While Mary was carrying the Messiah, there was no way she would have known the full spectrum of what was to come. As anyone would, she would have had questions. Having a baby without ever having been with a man. Carrying a baby unmarried and promised to a man of faith brings about questions beyond the ordinary. But their faith in God allowed them to trust God in the process, the plans God not only had for them but for all.
As a first time mother or in any one of a
Mother’s pregnancies, we have questions.
Some are simple but others questions are more complicated, especially in a crisis. So much you don’t know a new mom and so much we don’t know in the parenting process. Even if you think you’ve dotted all the i’s and crossed all the t’s the bottom of your plans can fall out. Then what?
God has a plan beyond our expectations. Sometimes and more often than not, unexplainable plans. When we think it’s about us, it’s always about Him! How he weaves his plan and we witness his glory we learn to have unexplainable hope in life.
As believers in The Lord Jesus Christ, our hope isn’t tied to our expectations finally being met in our way and our timing. Our hope isn’t tied to whether or not a circumstance or another person changes but our hope is tied to the unchanging promise of God. We hope for the good we know God will ultimately bring whether the good turns out to match our desires or not.
While the challenge of motherhood in this world has changed from generation to generation, God is still the same for me as he was for my mother, her mother, and the mothers ahead of me.
Trust God. Even when you don’t see it. Even when you don’t feel it. He has a plan.
Pray. Store the hope of God in your heart - as in Romans 15:13
To live your best life, you must Keep Hope Alive!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
During this post-resurrection season, Jesus enters the lives of his friends/disciples as recorded in John Chapter 20. Has Jesus entered your life? Where are you in the post-resurrection season? Are you hesitant like Thomas? Are you looking for some sign before committing yourself to the fact that Jesus has created a new world through the resurrection? Are you willing to receive the gift of life through Jesus Christ? If your answer is yes, you will be blessed with Life. To believe in God is to give your heart to him, not just your head. It is not too demanding to do this, because God has already given us His heart through His Son, Jesus Christ!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Podcast Summary:
Easter is a threefold celebration:
- Celebration of a Prophecy Given Isaiah 61:1-2
- Celebration of a Prophecy Fulfilled Matthew 24:30-31
- Celebration of a Promise Fulfilled Luke 4:16-18
When we reflect on the full Resurrection story, we are spiritually empowered. We are reminded that Crucifixion should always be followed by the Resurrection. As Christians, we must live by Faith & not by logic, if we live by logic, the idea of Resurrection is absurd. It doesn’t make sense because it is not rational or logical. As we reflect on post-resurrection activities, we learn three life lessons:
- We must Show up
- We must Speak up
- We must Lookup
Speaker: Reverend Paula Smith Sawyer
Podcast Summary:
- Be Available to The Lord
- Watch Out for the Crowd
- Never Forget the Cross!!
Speaker: Pastor Dieuner Joseph
Podcast Summary:
The people of God walk in the abundance of the Lord because His favor is unfailing. God’s blessings cannot be earned. They are reflections of God’s extravagant love for His creation. All we can do is express our gratitude for His lovingkindness.
Speaker: Reverend Marlin Jones
One of the biggest questions in life is what will people say about us when we are no longer around. In fact, this question is not just when we die but it is also a question that should be asked when we leave a place, leave one job for the next, get promoted from one school to the next, or in fact move from one church to next. How we leave a place says as much about us as when we arrive at a place. In fact, in a lot of areas of life, i.e. sports, education, church, it’s often said that how you finish is the most important thing. Rahab is a great illustration of a person who created an entirely new legacy by making the decision to hide the spies. Rahab moves from a legacy of a prostitute and possible innkeeper to a legacy of courage, belief, and salvation. In order to create a similar legacy, we must:
1. Be Strong and Courageous! Throughout the book of Joshua, God encourages Joshua and Israelites to be strong and courageous. Rahab demonstrates this by choosing to hide the spies. This would have been considered treason had she been caught. This courageous decision was her first sign of faith. Faith requires courage! (Joshua 2:4)
2. Choose to Believe! Rahab choose to believe the report and the rumors about who God was. She had heard about God parting the Red to bring the Israelites out of Egyptian slavery. She believe God had given the Israelites victory over Sihon and Og. Her belief caused her to share important information with the spies that the people of Jericho were already defeated in their hearts. (Joshua 2:4-6)
3. Complete the steps for Salvation! Rahab had 3 specific conditions that she had to complete in order to save herself and her family. She had to tie a red rope in the window. She had to bring her entire family to her house and keep them inside. Finally, she had to not betray the spies. We too have conditions for salvation. We must admit that we are sinners, Believe that Jesus died for our sins and rose from the dead, Confess that Jesus is Lord! (Joshua 2:17-20)
Speaker: Reverend Julie Bell
You must come to God with the right attitude when you pray. We must come humbly understanding that God owes us nothing. We should recognize who God is, especially in relation to us. He is the great I am, the Creator of all the world. We should make our requests known to Him specifically. When we pray, we should have faith to know that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly more than we ask. When we come with the right attitude in faith, nothing is impossible.
Speaker: Minister Tony Cornelious
Amos prophesied thousands of years ago. His words still ring true.
Speaker: Reverend Rose Cornelious
Justice is a continuing fight. Songs have fueled the struggle for justice.
Speaker: Pastor Dieuner Joseph
Believers should pray for unity in the Body of Christ just as Christ prayed for us. For There is one body and one Spirit; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Speaker: Pastor Dieuner Joseph
Prayer is the best therapy for the believer. When we are overwhelmed with the issues of life, we have to go to the Lord in prayer so we can be encouraged to continue our Christian journey.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
God accomplishes His purpose in our lives through prayer which is a change agent. Prayer moves us beyond our current circumstances into the presence of Almighty God. Our prayers should always be focused, honest, fervent, and anchored in humility with the expectation that God will answer.
Speaker: Pastor Dieuner Joseph
Our God is attentive to the prayers of His children. He invites us to pray so we can bring our petitions to Him and fellowship with Him in spirit and in truth. Therefore, we should be fervent and persistent in making our requests known to Him through prayer.
Key Points:**Believers should pray with confidence
Believers should pray with fervency
Believers should pray with expectancy**
Speaker: Reverend Marlin Jones
On Monday, January 17, 2022, we celebrated the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Holiday. Dr. King, like Abraham, had a vision and could also see clearly. As we celebrate the legacy of Dr. King, we should remember that it was God who had a vision (plan) for his life that allowed him to see clearly. Do you know the vision that God has for your life? Can you see clearly? In order to see clearly, you must:
1. Allow God to cast the vision for your life— God initiated the vision for Abraham. Your life is more complete and moving in the correct direction when you start with God and God’s priorities. (Genesis 12: 1-2)
2. Include others in your set of priorities—A vision initiated by God always involves and blesses others. God blesses you in order to bless others which is what happens through Christ. (Genesis 12: 2-3)
3. Impact others beyond material wealth and fame—The life you live should have an eternal value by bringing others to Christ. (Genesis 12:4, Hebrews 11:12)
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Jesus often packaged spiritual truths and lessons of faith into short, relatable narratives known as Parables. These stories were his way of explaining the attributes of God and giving instructions for godly living in human terms. Jesus doesn’t say “good and gifted servant” or “good and skilled servant.” It is being faithful where He puts the emphasis, so what does it mean to be faithful, particularly a faithful servant of Christ? You don’t have to look far to find out what we are commanded to do (Matt 25:35-36; James 1:27). God has preordained good works for you to do if you and I would only walk-in (or do) them (Eph 2:10). Being faithful is going where and when one’s needed.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Joshua illustrates the power we inherit when we willingly accept our spiritual assignments & trust God always to give us the strength we need for success. The first revelation of God after the death of Moses formally installs Joshua as the new leader. God does three essential things with Joshua: 1) Gives him the double commission to lead the people into the promised land, 2) Renews the assurance of His divine aid, 3) Admonishes Joshua to be steadfast and faithful towards God’s law and confidence in Him.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Believing the Gospel means applying it in every area of our lives. The community formed by and in Christ is not divided along ethnic, societal, or any other boundary-our identity is in Christ as part of His church. In this passage, Paul begins by describing those whom he is addressing as "God's chosen ones" and "holy and loved." The significance of this is great. He is not speaking to the unsaved or to those whose desire should be anything less than complete surrender to Christ. We are the object of God's great love as evidenced by Christ's work of salvation.
Paul describes the following attributes as Fruit of the Gospel in our lives as Believers.
Compassion
Compassion is not the same as empathy, even though the concepts are related. While empathy refers more generally to our ability to take the perspective of and feel the emotions of another person, compassion is when those feelings and thoughts include the desire to help. While cynics may dismiss
compassion as touchy-feely or irrational, scientific research has shown that when we feel compassion, our heart rate slows down, we secrete the “bonding hormone” oxytocin, and regions of the brain linked to empathy & caregiving light up, which often results in our wanting to approach and care for others.
Kindness
Kindness is a lifestyle. It is a daily practice. It is a choice. As Christians, we are to grow in the fruits of the spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, and kindness – and growth takes time. A seed does not transform into a tree overnight, but with careful watering, tending, and patience, a seed will slowly grow day by day into a strong towering tree. It is the same with kindness. We must be faithful every day to bear the good fruit of kindness. Being kind should be our default mode, a habit of goodwill, a heart of continual service every day.
ANSWER
Humility
The Bible describes humility as meekness, lowliness, and absence of self. The Greek word translated as “humility” literally means “lowliness of mind,” so we see that humility is a heart attitude, not merely an outward demeanor. One may put on an outward show of humility but still have a heart full of pride and arrogance. Jesus said that those who are “poor in spirit” would have the kingdom of heaven. Being poor in spirit means that only those who admit to an absolute bankruptcy of spiritual worth will inherit eternal life. Therefore, humility is a key factor in being a Christian.
Gentleness
Gentleness comes from a state of humility. Therefore, someone who lacks gentleness is often prideful and easily angered, or feels the need for revenge. To be gentle, we must not view ourselves as better than someone else. Prautes, the Greek word translated "gentleness" in Galatians 5:23, means "to submit one's strength in a posture of meekness." Prautes is translated as "gentleness," "consideration," "humility," and "meekness." One part of gentleness is to calmly accept God's judgment regarding a situation, even if that judgment results in personal hardship. It is humility toward God. When we submit to God we will also be gentle with others.
Patience
The quality or virtue of patience is presented as either forbearance or endurance. In the former sense, it is a quality of self-restraint or of not giving way to anger, even in the face of provocation; it is attributed to both God and man and is closely related to mercy and compassion.
According to the New Testament, patience purifies faith (1 Pt 1.6), fosters hope (Rom 8.25; 15.4), leads to perfection (Jas 1.4), and pertains to charity (1 Cor 13.4, 5, 7). Thus, it is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal 5.22), deriving its power from God (Col 1.11).
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Mary’s beautiful song of praise is commonly called the Magnificat, from the Latin for “magnify.”
Mary magnifies the Lord, proclaiming God’s greatness and rejoicing in God as Savior. She begins with God’s actions in her own life, for in choosing her to be the mother of the Messiah, the Mighty One has indeed “done great things for” her. God wants to do great things through us as we share the birth of our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ!
What is Advent?
Advent is a four-week season of preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas and it always has a theme of looking towards the future coming of Christ at the end times.
God shows his mercy and grace through the presence of Jesus. We need to be the face of Jesus in the world today and share the “Good News” of the Gospel.
Why is Advent significant?
Advent gives us an opportunity to do three things:
1) Reflect on our relationship with Almighty God through Jesus Christ…
2) Repent for our sins & wholeheartedly return to God…
3) Rejoice as we celebrate the gift of love we receive because of the birth of Jesus Christ!
Speaker: Reverend Rose Cornelious
In these times of uncertainty, God's people should take the time to worship, repent and seek the face of God.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Advent is a four-week season of preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas and it always has a theme of looking towards the future coming of Christ at the end times. One of the prayers of the early Church, which is linked with the season of waiting and longing, was the Aramaic word 'MARANATHA', which means 'Come Lord'.
God shows his mercy through the face of Jesus. We need to be the face of Jesus in the world today. During this Advent season, we are waiting "for all the individuals and nations on earth to grow into the kind of relationship with each other that will encourage mutual help instead of competition and conflict. Then the Kingdom of God will be established!".
The message is the same as John preached to the Jews: "Prepare by seeking forgiveness." What gets in the way of our appreciating God's gift of Jesus as Savior is that we have let idols clutter our lives as the Jews of old did.
Today, I am highlighting Three Elements of Advent:
Expectation:
The word expectation comes from the Latin word expectationem, meaning "an awaiting." If we have great expectations, we believe something good will come our way, but if we keep our expectations low, we risk being disappointed.
Preparation:
A proceeding, measure, or provision by which one prepares for something: preparations for Christmas. •Any proceeding, experience, or the like is considered as a mode of preparing for the future.
An act of preparing or the state of being prepared. SOME WORDS RELATED TO PREPARATION ARE arrangement, construction, education, formation, groundwork, plan, rehearsal, study, training.
Participation:
The act of actively taking part in something. Similar words are involvement, engagement, contribution, sharing, association, or partaking.
Speaker: Reverend Marlin Jones Sermon
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Know the Word of God. God’s Word is eternal, and His Word brings light to a dark world.
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Be Prepared to serve in the midst of your troubles. God is using your service to lead people to Christ. This is “letting our light shine so that others may see your good works and glorify God in heaven.”
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Have a heart of Thanksgiving. Be grateful for both your troubles and your blessings. See your troubles as an opportunity for you to remain humble and as an opportunity for God to demonstrate His power.
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Remain Hopeful! It is not all about what you see before you. It is about what God is doing behind what is seen. God is working even when you do not see it. It is not just about this life but also about eternal life. In the old church, they called it “sending up my timber.” Means, pray, praise, and sacrifice to God at all times—good and bad—so you can draw strength from God when you need him most.
Speaker: Reverend Julie Bell Sermon
In this life, we will have various needs at different times. God is able to meet all of our needs. We must make our requests known to Him and have faith that He has the power to deliver and then trust that He will speak to our situation and deliverance will come.
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There will always be needs.
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God is able to meet our needs.
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We should take our requests to Him in faith.
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Deliverance will come.
Speaker: Disciple Dewayne Stewart
A discussion on why Minister Dewayne A. Stewart ran from his calling when he initially heard it back in 2002. The sermon is about how we should embrace God's calling on our lives.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Jesus always took time to deal with the disciples on a personal level. In the 21st chapter of John, Jesus gives Peter feedback on his responsibilities and assignment as a disciple. The mission is to evangelize or catch fish and disciple those who are not in a relationship with Jesus Christ. Jesus inquiries about the condition of Peter’s heart and asks the ultimate question: “Do you love Me more than these?” This is a question all of us must answer.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
When we face life circumstances, we must display basic trust in the absolute righteousness of God and the faithfulness He provides. In life, we make choices that determine our fate. The Chronicle is striving to teach: if we forget the God of righteousness in our responses to life challenges, we will fail.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
God’s love is consistent in both the Old & New Testaments. God is compassionate, patient, and always abounding in lovingkindness. The gift of Jesus as a sacrifice for humankind is a clear illustration of God’s eternal love for us. God is love & invites us to Live in His love as His children. We should be a constant reflection of God!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
At some point in all our lives, we will be tested & challenged to move beyond our comfort zone. Therefore, we must cultivate a relationship with Almighty God, who always loves us. God’s Unconditional love is difficult to comprehend because many of us do not function with a clear understanding of God’s love for humankind. There are three specific steps we must take to access the boundless love of God successfully. Gideon’s story proves that when we are at our least, God can be at His greatest.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
One of the most powerful themes that exist throughout the Bible is the idea of God’s lovingkindness. God’s love cannot be separated from His covenantal faithfulness to us. Being a Christian is not so much about believing IN God as it is believing God. Believing that He is who He says He is. Believing that He will do what He says He will do. Taking Him at His Word and acting accordingly. That is how we love God – we obey Him.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
In Romans 5:8, the Apostle Paul uses strong words to describe those whom God loves & for whom Christ died. Three of the words express the deficiencies of human beings; we are “without strength, “ungodly” and “sinners.” Despite our sinful nature, God demonstrates His love for us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. This passage gives us an understanding of God’s Agape (unconditional love).
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Jesus assures His followers that His Father will continue His work through them after His departure. Their works will glorify the Father & yield a continuous harvest. It was critical for all the disciples & for us to pray in the name of Jesus & give glory to the Father. Can you be trusted to do the work of Jesus in a spirit of love?
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Jesus is the perfect model of love & He shows us how to love according to God’s standards. For those who don’t understand what it means to love, Jesus teaches by saying, “greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
In this text, the leper who wants to be healed doesn’t turn to one of the disciples. He doesn’t turn to another leper. He doesn’t even turn to the priest. He knows that none of them can help him. He turns to Jesus. He says “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” Is it time for you to turn to Jesus for healing?
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Life is filled with challenges; we must be prepared to fight our way through the storms & tough days. We must always have a plan of action that will move us from chaos to peace. The four men in our text portrayed resilience & courage as they delivered the paralytic man to Jesus for healing.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Jesus informs the disciples that they will be His witnesses after His departure. Their intimate companionship with Him “from the beginning” is the foundation of their witness. Jesus introduces the Disciples to the Holy Spirit & assures them that they will receive divine guidance from the Spirit of Truth which is aligned with the Will of God.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
In this life, we will be called by many names & we must ask ourselves how we want to be defined. Jesus took the time to clearly explain to the Disciples what it means to be in a relationship with Him. He also describes the behavior, which reflects a True Friend & Disciple in the Kingdom of God. Jesus commands love & obedience from everyone who calls Him Friend.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Life is filled with challenges & questions. Therefore, we must cultivate a personal relationship with God that gives us unlimited access & conversation with God. Habakkuk questions the theology of Justice when the wicked are not punished & the righteous are not rewarded. God responds & assures the prophet that His promises are absolutely reliable & the righteous must live by Faith with steadfast obedience.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Jesus shares His identity when He said, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who have come before me were thieves and robbers.” Jesus said, “I am the gate, whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in, go out, find pasture & experience a fruitful life.” Due to the sacrifice of Jesus, we don’t have to be separated from God forever.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Our Faith in God is a decision that shapes our social values, commitments & practices. A succinct definition of biblical obedience is "to hear God's Word and act accordingly." ... Thus, biblical obedience to God means to hear, trust, submit and surrender to God and His Word.
Speaker: Minister Karen Morant
God declares freedom for Christians. Where is the uprising of freed Christians?
The Truth:
**1) What do you do when you have been set free?
2) There are things Christ has freed you from; and
3) There are things Christ has freed you to.**
Speaker: Disciple Eddie Mutebi
As Christians, we must be obedient, faithful, and intentional in our efforts to seek God. Almighty God will always make timely provisions for His children.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
As the United States of America celebrates Independence Day on July 4, it’s worth noting the nation was founded upon the idea that God created human beings to be free. The Declaration of Independence states that people “are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
But what is “liberty,” exactly? Is freedom based upon the country where we live, or can it have a deeper meaning? According to the Bible, ”Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (2 Corinthians 3:17).
Speaker: Disciple Daniella (Dani) Ochman
This message is about learning to love yourself as God created you and sharing the same love and compassion with others. By developing ourselves into better disciples, we can help others do the same.
Speaker: Dr. London Wills
Abraham became what we know now as the “Father of Faith.” Abraham learned a modern-day computer keyboard function which changed his entire destiny. The keyboard function we who operate computers know it as “Control, Alt, Delete.” This simple computer keyboard command can be applied to our spiritual walk as believers, and like Abraham, we can answer the call of God and fulfill the destiny we were created for.
Speaker: Reverend Tony Cornelius
Martha, the sister of Lazarus, extended hospitality to Jesus. She did work behind the scenes and had a revelation of who Christ Jesus is.
Speaker: Disciple Raymond Harrison, Jr.
A reminder that everything we need to enter the place God has promised is with(in) us. Our entry into that special place is dependent on what we know, what we do, and what we believe.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
The passage gives us a clear illustration of how a complaint within the Body of Christ can be successfully resolved. First, we must acknowledge there is a problem; Secondly, we must listen attentively to gain understanding; thirdly, we must be certain that the needs of all parties have been addressed. Finally, we must proceed with a course of action that will bless the Church.
Speaker: Dewayne Stewart
My mother once told me, "when a person tells you and shows you who they are, believe them." Jesus told the Pharisees who he was and performed miracles, yet they still did not believe he was the Son of God. Through our trials and tribulations here on earth, God is the only constant, and it is up to us to ensure that we establish a relationship with God so that we know he is with us.
Speaker: Rev. Dr. Linda Bryan
5 Lessons from a Canaanite mother
**1. Come to Jesus as you are. Don't wait until you run out of options.
2. Ask for mercy for yourself - not for the situation.
3. Don't make excuses. Be forthright without shame and embarrassment.
4. Ask for help. There is a difference between "mercy" and "help." We need both.
- Permit yourself to take your "faith test" when it comes.**
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
The story of the blind man reveals a movement from darkness to light & his confession of his Faith in Jesus provided a vehicle through which he and the Church could celebrate the power of new life through Jesus.
Speaker: Reverend Julie Bell
Jesus has come that we may have life and have it more abundantly. He is our salvation. When we have received such a great blessing, we ought to be able to share it (be a witness) with the world. It shouldn’t matter who is around or who is listening; we should still give our testimony. We can't be scared of what others might think or do about what we say. When we share our testimony boldly, we are, in fact, worshiping God and fulfilling our purpose.
**Speaker: Reverend Marlin Jones
Continuing our study of the book of John, Jesus in the last half of John 7 and John 8 teaches both the crowd and the Pharisees why they really do not understand God, the Father. Three points to consider: 1)You might not understand the Father if you do not respond to the Word. 2)You might not understand the Father if you do not truly understand what service means. 3) You might not understand the Father if you do not understand love.**
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Jesus said to the Jews not to judge according to appearance but to judge with a righteous judgment that comes from God. We should always seek the Facts in all Circumstances before we draw conclusions. According to Jesus, all of us must be sure we are living consistently within the boundaries of what is right and what is wrong according to Jesus!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
In this dialogue, Jesus contrasts himself with his brothers, saying they are part of the world and alienated from God. He tells them the right time for him has not yet come, but any time is right for them. Jesus said he would indeed go to Judea to perform a great work which is His death. But it is not yet time for him to die. Jesus has not come to do His own will, He has come to do the will of His Father & His schedule is determined by God.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
As we come to the end of John Chapter 6, Jesus is approaching the end of His Galilean ministry, which had gone on for more than a year. Jesus had a conversation with the Disciples to discern & clarify their level of commitment to His Ministry. 61 Aware that his disciples were grumbling, Jesus asked them, Will you stay or walk away“? This is the question all of us must answer as Disciples of Jesus Christ.
Speaker: Rev. Dr. Rose Cornelious
Jesus sacrificed His life so that we could have fellowship with God, forgiveness, healing, deliverance, peace, joy, and eternal life.
Speaker: Minister Bonita Croney
The Multitudes meet up with Jesus on the other side of the Sea after being fed in a quest to gain more food. Jesus then reveals and shares with them important information.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
The Disciples found themselves in the midst of a violent storm, & a barely visible figure can be seen walking on water toward their boat. John shares with us they were afraid & wondering if they should have stayed back on the shore with the crowd. In the midst of their Fear, they hear a familiar voice, “It is I; do not be afraid.”
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
We often overlook our blessings & neglect to thank God for the daily bread we receive from His Divine Hand. Do we selfishly satisfy our appetites and thoughtlessly toss out whatever remains uneaten, filling countless garbage cans with our leftovers? How would Jesus respond to such behavior in a world where so many are starving and/or dying from hunger?
Speaker: Monica Dixon Perry
What are the real intent of the Bible and the scripture? There are so many believers and followers of Christ who get it wrong. Let’s examine what we are to get from reading and studying the Bible so that we can grow closer to God and understand what He is asking of us and wanting us to learn. We can look at real-life examples of how we may be off course and what is needed to get on the right track.
Speaker – Pastor Classy Preston
So many of us are trying to prove who or what we are to the people around us. Jesus teaches us a valuable lesson because He declared there was no need to prove who He was or why He had come. He had come to glorify His Father, not Himself!
**Speaker: Pastor Dieuner Joseph
Jesus is the Son of God with authority over heaven and earth. He is the Giver of eternal life and the guarantor of our salvation.**
Speaker: Minister Karen Morant
Jesus is found among the multitude again, seeking to perform a miracle, seeking to heal a man, seeking to help the unbelief of a multitude. Today, Jesus is still seeking to heal a multitude as he promises and performing miracles for his glory. Jesus has a question for a certain one among the multitude. How will you answer today when Jesus asks you “Do you want to be well? In this text, the sick man doesn’t say, “Yes, I want to be healed.” Today, Jesus is commanding the multitude to move immediately, to go, take up your mat and walk.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
In our text, Jesus helps us see that Total Healing can only occur if one has Authentic Faith in the One who is the Healer. The Royal Official wanted Jesus to come immediately before his Son dies, but Jesus said to him, ”Go your way: Your Son Lives.” The man took Jesus at his word and made his way home, which was a bold act of Faith. He discovered his obedience opened the door for the healing of his Son.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
In our text, Jesus helps us see that Total Healing can only occur if one has Authentic Faith in the One who is the Healer. The Royal Official wanted Jesus to come immediately before his Son dies, but Jesus said to him, ”Go your way: Your Son Lives.” The man took Jesus at his word and made his way home, which was a bold act of Faith. He discovered his obedience opened the door for the healing of his Son.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Truth & Spirit are at the center of living Worship, and knowing who it is we Worship of great importance. There is a divine dialect in Worship. The Spirit & Truth are always interacting with one leading to the other & back again. Jesus moved beyond the old traditions of Worship according to the Jews to deal with the reality of Worship due to His arrival.
**Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Jesus makes it clear to the Samaritan Woman that water from the well can satisfy thirst only for a brief time. Therefore, she must return to the well over & over again. Jesus offers “water from above” that can quench the woman’s deepest thirst, not for a day, but forever!**
**Speaker: Reverend Julie Bell
God desires to be our Shepherd. This relationship will meet all of our needs. He will protect us, provide for us, correct us, and bless us. The greatest blessing is unlike many things in this life, it is not temporary, but is eternal. When we surrender to God being Lord of our lives, it gives us life abundantly on the earth and into eternity with Him forever.**
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
The Glory of God is revealed through His mighty works. God has given all things into the hand of the One whom He has sent. So, those who believe in the Son are given all that the Father has shared with Him. This is the basis of Eternal Life for us through our Heavenly Father.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
God gives us a model of Love to duplicate in our everyday lives. We learn that Love is never passive. It is the very nature of love to give the best at all times and never hold back. Almighty God comes to the whole world in love; let’s be vessels of Agape Love!
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Jesus entered the place of Worship & discovered the “Money Changers” were making money at the expense of the Poor. Jesus viewed the Temple as a Sacred place because it was the House of God. Each of us must ask ourselves if we truly respect the House of God.
Speaker: Reverend Tony Cornelious
Trust in God in the good times, the bad times, in the lean times and in the times of plenty. He is coming back to claim his bride. He loves to be invited and involved in our wedding celebrations. It is a time when He can manifest His glory for all. The wedding in Cana as impactful as it was, it was the beginnings of signs Jesus would perform.
Speaker: Pastor Dieuner Joseph
Jesus is the Only One who can redeem humanity and restore us to a right relationship with God. No matter our past, Jesus can give us a more promising future. It is to our benefit to accept His invitation to discipleship.
**Speaker: Reverend Martha Jenkins
Making disciples may sometimes seem like a daunting task. However, as Dr. Ken Hemphill in his book SPLASH demonstrates, it is as simple as “showing people love and sharing Christ.” Making disciples requires that we tell others about Christ, train them to make disciples, take on humility, and sacrifice some of our comforts.**
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
John the Baptist helps us to see what we reveal to others clearly communicates what we believe. We must be aware of how our Words and Actions bear witness to the character of God and His active presence in the World. Our Testimonies should be focused on God’s Salvation Plan for His people through His Son Jesus Christ.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
The Apostle John makes it clear throughout his writing that John the Baptist was a witness to the Light (Jesus) but he was not the Light. John had been given a special assignment from God to bear witness to the Light and the Gift of Salvation through a relationship with Jesus Christ. When we Believe, we yield ourselves up to be possessed by the “ One in whom we believe”.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
John emphasizes the Absolute, Personal, Perfect Word of God & Role of God, as the Original Creator of the world. He helps us to understand how we are included in the Creation Story and our Identity in Christ.
**Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
There will be times or seasons in our lives when we will face disappointment and despair. During these times, we usually feel alone, discouraged and hopeless. The Prophet Jeremiah informs us that only a relationship with Almighty God will move us from a state of Hopelessness to Hopefulness.**
**Speaker: Disciple Billie Redmond
Jesus calls us to love Him and to demonstrate our love by loving others. He reminds us to care for the poor and needy and with our service and sacrifice offers great promises of reward.**
**Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Having faith is hoping in spite of hopeless circumstances. Having faith is never doubting the promises of God. Having faith is being absolutely convinced that God will do what He has promised. In order to ground our faith in the Gospel, we must believe the Gospel being preached to us is true and the Bible upon which the Gospel was written is also true.**
**Speaker: Pastor Dieuner Joseph
Despite the craziness going on in our country and in the world, we have to be still and know that God is in control. That knowledge should encourage us to remain faithful in our service to the kingdom of God as His workmanship created for good works that he prepared for us before the creation of time.**
Speaker: Reverend Marlin Jones
In this current time, God is asking who will represent him. In order to represent God, believers must ask themselves the following questions: 1. Are you truly listening when God speaks? 2. Do you truly understand what God is asking of you? 3.What are you willing to sacrifice for God?
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Jesus makes a promise of rest to those who take his yoke upon them. Jesus invites us to the rest of a purposeful life grounded in God’s Word and Promises. Jesus has concern for our burdens and offers rest for our souls. The invitation from Jesus is relevant today, “Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
**Speaker: Raymond Harrison, Jr.
A personal reflection of a journey from fear to faith in the midst of a Quad Crisis. The speaker will share ways God has used pain and failure to get to a stronger faith to fulfill His purpose.**
Speaker: Classy Preston
This Gospel story affirms the compassion of Jesus which leads him to travel to heal and transform lives. Regardless of our emotional state of mind, Jesus is able to restore and deliver us through His Healing Power. Afterward, we should bear witness to let others know “how much God has done for us.”
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
In life, we make choices that determine our fate. The Chronicle is striving to teach us that if we forget the God of righteousness and justice in our responses to life challenges we will fail. We must not be fearful or dismayed when we face challenges we must remember, “the battle is not yours but God’s.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
In John 17 Jesus prays on behalf of the disciples because he knows the battles they will face in the world. The World hates those who follow Jesus. We are not called to be of the world, but we are sent into the world to be a witness of Jesus Christ.
Speaker: Reverend Rose Cornelious
Did you know there are some things we can do to actually help the enemy defeat us? Learn how the sin of stubbornness has marked creation and hindered our ability to live in the abundance God has for us.
**Speaker: Reverend Tony Cornelious
Moses has died, God has picked Joshua to lead the Children of Israel across the Jordan River and into the Promised land. The City of Jericho will be the first major test displaying Joshua's military and leadership skills.**
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
In life all of us will have trials and some tribulation. During these seasons, we often question God’s existence and ask why are these troubles invading my life? Job teaches us how to move through seasons of loss by 1) trusting God completely in all circumstances 2) Having a clear understanding of our final destiny and 3) Opening eyes of Faith when darkness invades our personal space. Through Jesus Christ, we always have access to God!
Speaker: Reverend Julie Bell
Peace in a Pandemic is the great benefit of having a relationship with God. Life causes many stressors. God is a very present help in the time of trouble. You don't have to fear no matter what is going on around you. You can rest in Him, knowing It is well.
**Speaker: Minister Karen Holmes Morant
God is asking, Do you believe dry bones can live again? Hope for a better tomorrow in the mist of so much death around the world takes faith in Jesus Christ. Will your faith allow you to endure for however long it takes to survive the pandemic or epidemic? A physical and spiritual response is required to obey God. We, the Church, are called to move by the Spirit to impact change, supernatural change, transformational change. Ultimately, it is only by the Holy Spirit and through the Cross of Christ that the victory over sin and death is won.**
**Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
It is good for us to remember the physical and spiritual cost of obedience to Jesus Christ, our Lord & Savior. It is good for us to resolve ourselves afresh to be grounded in the word of God and to seek a new intimacy with the Father so we can be stronger in our resistance to temptation. Ultimately, it is only in the strength of the Holy Spirit and through the Cross of Christ that the victory over sin and death is won.**
**Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
At times in our lives, we may become focused on “what we do” and “how well we do it.” At these times, we must stop and acknowledge that it is God’s power working through us. When we have done “a good work,” it is natural for us to feel good. However, we must remember, it is God who is working in us and through us! Without God, we have no power!**
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
God has Spiritual and Moral standards that never change, regardless of circumstances in the world and around us. The Apostle John gave us these instructions “Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you”. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.
Speaker: Pastor Dieuner Joseph
God is looking for a few good men who will defend those too weak to fight for themselves. He is inviting godly men to become foot soldiers in the cosmological battle of good versus evil. Those who accept his invitation will inherit eternal life.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
Sometimes life is overwhelming and we will find ourselves despondent, depressed, and disappointed. During these moments of life, we must remember God watches over us regardless of our circumstances in life, and we can count on God’s promises within His Word. Hallelujah!
**Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
There are times when life is filled with despair and we cry out to God to ask How long, Oh Lord? Are you willing to ask God How Long? David shows us how to move from despair to deliverance by putting our total trust in God. When we are discouraged and depressed, the answer is not in looking inside ourselves, but in looking to our Faithful God.**
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
As Believers, we are not exempt from fear, but we have a God to take us through our fears. When we take up the full armor of God we will be able to resist the evil one. We must stand firm having girded our loins with truth, and having put on the Breastplate of righteousness, and having shod our feet with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace (Ephesians 6:14-15).
**Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
In life, we will be faced with trials and occasional attacks from our enemies. During these times we must recall the promises of God’s Word to be encouraged. In all circumstances, we must display basic trust in the absolute righteousness of God, and the faithfulness God provides at all times.**
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
God has given each one of us spiritual gifts and talents to be used in His service. He has equipped us to fulfill a special assignment in His kingdom, there is no need to wait to be drafted you can volunteer right now. There is a place for all of us in God’s vineyard and the process begins when we give our hearts to God.
Speaker: Deacon Diana Bing-Lawson
Of all the characteristics given to Motherhood, the most enduring trait is LOVE. In times, such as this, Motherhood calls for LOVE beyond what mothers believe they can provide. Love requires a dependence on God as never before.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
We must be intentional in acknowledging the presence and gift of God’s Amazing Grace in our lives. Therefore, on a daily basis, we must Apply God’s Standards to our Lives, Renew our Commitment to God’s Covenant and Acknowledge Reliance Upon God’s Grace.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
God never gives up on us even when we are rebellious and resistant to His will. Each day we make decisions that impact our relationship with Almighty God. Therefore, we must be sensitive to our sinful nature and be willing to voluntarily repent for our sins.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
It is good for us to experience the power of confession and repentance in shaping our relationship with God. The Bible teaches: Truth is that which is consistent with the mind, will, character, glory, and being of God. The whole truth gives us the opportunity to complete transparency before God.
Speaker: Pastor Classy Preston
We live in challenging times and the world is rapidly changing. Therefore, we must be keenly aware that God’s Word (The Bible), a relationship with Jesus Christ (our Savior) are required for survival. There is no anchor in the world but through Jesus, we can be eternally connected to Almighty God.
Speaker: Reverend Julie Bell
Traditionally God blesses us, and we have good times, and then we leave God. Reverend Julie Bell was encouraging us to 'Flip the Script' and stay with God. Her key points were to separate ourselves with God, confess our sins, and worship God. When we do these things, we have the benefit of forgiveness and an eternal relationship with God.
Speaker: Reverend Paula Smith Sawyer
She challenged all of us to allow God's Word to convict us and help us get out of sin; allow God's Word to sustain us for all His promises in the Word are true and allow God's Word to bring us joy for there is joy in the hope that only God can give you as you trust in Him and trust in His Word. Get into the Word and draw closer to our Savior. May our God give you strength and bless you with peace as you Word Up!!