Lenexa Baptist Church

August 6, 2023 Scott Dawson This week’s message comes from Philippians 1, which challenges us to focus our attention solely on Jesus. Paul offers clear instruction on living out our Christian faith in prayer through the love, knowledge, sincerity, and purpose found in Christ. Worship with LBC this weekend and consider bringing someone you know who needs encouragement right now.

For centuries, curiosity and intrigue has always surrounded the idea of speaking to the dead. In our text this weekend, from 1 Samuel 28, its noted that Saul seeks after a medium and learns what’s coming next. The news is quite disturbing. Does Scripture have more to say about engaging in this kind of activity? Is it demonic? What was Saul’s relationship with God at the time? You won’t want to miss this week’s message on whether you come on Saturday at 5pm or Sunday at 9:30 & 11am.

This week David finds himself in another tight spot. Will he risk another confrontation with Saul or flee for protection? On the surface, it’s easy to be critical of David’s choice. His choice is not unlike most decisions we face. The decisions we make in life are not always between good and evil, but better or best. In this passage, I will unveil some important principles to help guide our decision making. Together, we’ll discover the underlying truth about God that sustains us even when the decisions we make result in difficult consequences. These passages may be old historically, but they are fresh and new in their practicality for our lives today. I pray you will have an opportunity to join us as we study the enduring, eternal, infallible truth of God’s Word. See you this weekend, Pastor Chad McDonald.

Despite his circumstances, David’s faithfulness and trust in the Lord enabled him to escape the threats he often faced. Two very different men, David and Saul, on a trajectory determined by God’s ultimate plan and the choices each would make to either surrender to God or pretend to know God. This week’s message will challenge believers and nonbelievers alike to consider their path and walk with God.

A Church for all generations. Weekly Sermons from Lenexa Baptist Church.

A Church for all generations. Weekly Sermons from Lenexa Baptist Church.

How do we respond when we are treated unjustly? Our natural response is anger and vengeance. God’s people must be marked in a different way. In this passage, the voice of God comes to David from an unusual source. When confronted with God’s Word, he will extend forgiveness, trust God, and move forward in faithfulness. It is a powerful and relevant lesson for all of us as we seek to imitate King Jesus. The ability to extend forgiveness and trust God must be a defining mark of those who follow Christ.

This week, in 1 Samuel 25, David sends his men to seek provisions from a man named Nabal. David’s men quickly discovered that Nabal was a bitter man who only cared for himself. David’s response was to bring harm to Nabal but, ultimately, God judged Nabal’s selfishness and also prevented David from doing something he might later regret. How we respond to those who wrong us requires that we wait upon the Lord and trust that He will deal with them in His perfect time.

In 1984, the movie Karate Kid was a huge blockbuster hit. One of the most famous lines from the film was, “No mercy,” which was the mantra of the Cobra Kai Karate School. In the end, it proved to be a poor example of what anyone should live by. This week, in 1 Samuel 24:1-22, David finds himself in a situation that could have brought an immediate end to King Saul’s life. Instead, David spared Saul’s life. This week’s message offers a beautiful picture of what Christ has done for each of us; He gives mercy.

As believers in Christ, we are called to persevere. It is the defining mark of a true believer. But how do we persevere? Our text this week gives us a practical view of how God supports His people to persevere through the dark days of life. Through a faithful friend, the Word of God, and an amazing rescue, God will support and strengthen David in every way, reassuring him that he has no need to fear because the story has already been written, and His promises never fail.

With the current landscape of society today, it’s sad that even the most heinous of crimes don’t shock most people anymore. This weekend in 1 Samuel 22, King Saul performs his darkest act yet, the brutal murders of 85 priests. How are we to respond when there’s so much evil in the world? This weekend’s message will help answer that question and direct us to the only true hope, a sovereign and Holy Savior.

Throughout 1 Samuel, David’s exploits, courage and dedication to the Lord have become renowned in all of Israel. Yet now, the one who’s named “a man after God’s own heart” has become timid and afraid. Whether everyone admits it or not, we all face times like this in life. What does God’s word say to us about returning to the only true source of strength? This week’s message will guide us to God’s truth.

When Jonathan realized his father’s intentions were to kill David, he was shaken. Saul was not the father Jonathan believed him to be. Brokenhearted, Jonathan reminded David of their covenant between each other and the Lord. Sadly, some people are not always as they seem, and it can be highly disappointing. In this week’s message, Pastor Chad helps focus our attention on the Savior, the One who can heal and work all things for our good and for His glory.

C.S. Lewis once stated, “Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.” In 1 Samuel 20, Jonathan and David solidify their friendship through understanding of each other and a like faith based on God’s truth. There’s nothing better than having those you can trust, and they can trust in you. This weekend’s message will address this special bond between to godly friends and what God expects of us as followers of Jesus.

It probably never crossed David’s mind when he was anointed by Samuel to be king of Israel that he would find himself on the run. Instead of being accepted by King Saul, he would have to flee to protect himself. Life this side heaven often takes us down paths that seem we’re headed in the wrong direction, but in the sovereignty of God’s plan it places us right in the center of His will. Pastor Chad continues the series in 1 Samuel this week from chapter 19.

A Church for all generations. Weekly Sermons from Lenexa Baptist Church.

A Church for all generations. Weekly Sermons from Lenexa Baptist Church.

When it seems your enemies are at your every turn. This week is 1 Samuel 18, young David finds himself on the run as Saul hunts him down. Learning to handle the distractions in life as we pursue God’s calling can make the pursuit more difficult, but in the end, God always accomplishes His will and uses these situations for our good.

David’s life after the defeat of Goliath is about to take a drastic turn. He’ll find a faithful friend in Jonathan, prosper in all he does, and soon discover he will become the target of a very jealous king. Why does it seem that when things are looking up, our biggest challenges often find us? This week’s message from 1 Samuel 18 sheds some light on God’s purpose through adversity.

One of the greatest victory stories of all time is found in 1 Samuel 17. Young David finds himself in a unique situation that only God can ordain, being the only person willing to stand up to a giant. Learn this weekend how God can make all the difference, even when the world may laugh, and when the odds are stacked against you.

When Goliath stepped out onto the battle field, his shear size struck fear into his enemies and brought hope to those on his side. An unbeatable subject in the eyes of all who saw Goliath. Not in a million years would anyone expect this giant of a man could be beat. What giants are you facing that have you backed into a corner? This week’s message from 1 Samuel 17 offers hope at a moment when there seems to be no way out.

Remember in Exodus when God hardened Pharaoh’s heart then unleashed the ten plagues upon Egypt? Or what about that time when God enabled Satan himself to bring destruction into Job’s life? It’s so much easier to think of God as loving, gracious, and merciful, yet in 1 Samuel 16, there’s another instance when God sends a spirit to torment Saul. Why? Does God enjoy torturing people? What is His purpose with this kind of activity? This week’s message will answer those questions.

Uncertainty often plagues life’s journey when you’re not sure where you’re going. Often times, it seems like aimless wandering. In 1 Samuel 16, Samuel had some concerns but God assured him, “…I will show you what you shall do.” If you’re unclear about the path you’re on, know that seeking God is the first step to finding direction. Join LBC this weekend and be guided by the truth and comfort of God’s Word.

Matthew 15:8 says, “‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” In this text, the Lord describes those who say the right things, may even appear to do right, but the truth is everything else about them does not add up. In this week’s study from 1 Samuel 15, Saul seems to have turned from his sinful ways but has not. Samuel knows this and isn’t fooled by Saul’s pretending. Neither is God. Lip service is not what Jesus wants from us, He simply wants our heart.

Have you ever known someone who insists they have done right, but no matter how many times they’re told that’s not the case, it just never sinks in? They are wrong, yet it seems, they’re the only one who isn’t aware. Is it a close friend, family member, co-worker, or maybe it’s you? In 1 Samuel 15:23 Samuel told Saul, “Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has also rejected you from being king.” God calls us to obedience, not because He wants to take the “fun” out of things, but because He wants what’s best for us. This weekend, learn from Saul’s mistake so you can avoid making the same one.

Some people force their will instead of God's, placing unnecessary burdens upon others, only to succeed at the wrong thing. For others, as demonstrated in 1 Samuel 14, Jonathan surrenders to God's plans in what seems to be an almost effortless manor to accomplish the impossible. In your pursuits, are you seeking your will or God's?

Coaches often come across athletes who are extremely gifted, seemingly the best qualified, only to be left disappointed by their lack of discipline and follow-through. In 1 Samuel 13:9-23, Saul’s sin and disobedience will have consequences for him and the nation of Israel. Pastor Chad will remind us that no matter how things appear from the outside, no one is too big to fail and sin always has consequences.

Staying in step with God during the journey of life is an opportunity for spiritual growth. Getting out of stride generally brings anxiety caused by impatience, and it can take its toll on us. In 1 Samuel 13, King Saul got ahead of God’s timing, and it cost him dearly. Join Pastor Chad this weekend as he breaks down this text and provides direction for how it applies to us today.

The older you get, the more thought is given to leaving this life behind. Did you treat your family and friends as you should? Were you more selfless than selfish? Did you do all you could to share the salvation of Jesus with others? This week in 1 Samuel 12, Pastor Chad will share Samuel’s thoughts before he dies. Looking at Samuel’s perspective and reflections on life and service to the Lord will help you live better today as you think about tomorrow.

Since man discovered the power of an ox, they have been a primary source of muscle for plowing fields, bringing home crops, and treading out grain. The labor is hard and tiresome but the reward is great. This weekend, Pastor Chad will share God’s truth and message from Proverbs 14:4 to help prepare our hearts and minds for the coming new year.

Over 2,000 years ago, a baby was born, but this was no ordinary baby or birth. The impact of Jesus’ life spans the globe and transforms lives in a way nothing or no one else can. During our Christmas Eve Eve, Eve, and Christmas Day services, Pastor Chad will share two different messages from 2 Corinthians 8:9 and Luke 2 as we celebrate the birth of the Savior. It’s going to be a special time of candlelight communion and the greatest story ever told. Come join us!

Over 2,000 years ago, a baby was born, but this was no ordinary baby or birth. The impact of Jesus’ life spans the globe and transforms lives in a way nothing or no one else can. During our Christmas Eve Eve, Eve, and Christmas Day services, Pastor Chad will share two different messages from 2 Corinthians 8:9 and Luke 2 as we celebrate the birth of the Savior. It’s going to be a special time of candlelight communion and the greatest story ever told. Come join us!

As Pastor Chad continues the journey to Christmas, we come upon a remarkable text from Luke 1:46-56 when Mary sings praises to God over the news she has been given. Can you imagine how full her soul must have been in that moment? Christ came through Mary, but He has come for you. Rejoice in His salvation and may your heart be at peace with God.

fore·run·ner; a sign or warning of something to come, a person or thing that precedes the coming or development of someone. Before Jesus entered human life, there was another who was sent to alert the world of His coming. This week, Pastor Chad is in Luke 1 as we continue our journey to Christmas.

The angelic announcement to Mary was truly incredible, that she, being a virgin, would conceive and bear the Christ-child. What is also amazing is Mary’s response to this unbelievable news. Her posture is one that every believer should emulate, “ I am the bond servant of the Lord." Join LBC this week onsite or online as we begin the journey to Christmas.

Have you been without hope? In 1 Samuel 11, Jabesh Gilead is far off, without hope, and in desperate need of a Savior. The Lord will raise up His man who is humble, dependent, and most importantly empowered by the Holy Spirit to conquer Israel’s great enemy and work salvation for His glory. Does this sound familiar? It should for those who have come to know God’s salvation through Christ. Join us this weekend as we see Christ in an ancient battle and a far away place.

"Imagine receiving everything you pray for. Would it really be what you want? Sometimes, God gives us what we pray for just to show us how misguided we can be. In 1 Samuel this week, King Saul, the chosen leader of Israel, is found hiding, and as we’ll see, sometimes God’s judgment comes in the form of an answered prayer."

In 1 Samuel 10, Samuel says to Saul as he anoints his head with oil, “Is it not because the Lord has anointed you commander over His inheritance?” We’ve just completed the mid-term election cycle in the United States, and these words couldn't be more fitting. The text for this week teaches that it is ultimately God who raises up and He who sets down. Saul became king because God anointed him to be. Join Pastor Chad for a timely message from God’s Word.

Long before the United States formed, politics and religion intersected. In fact, it was God who instituted this relationship, and the idea of separation of church and state was nonexistent. In 1 Samuel 9, you will see the freewill of man and the sovereignty of God at work when the first king is appointed over the nation Israel.

Ever ask God for something you desperately wanted, but He warned, “You don’t want that." After insisting, He delivered, and you quickly regretted ever asking. This week, in 1 Samuel 8, the Israelites wanted a king so they could be like everyone else, but God warned them of the consequences. Be careful what you ask for!

The Bible talks often about idols and the call to remove those fake gods from our lives. In 1 Samuel 7, the Israelites put away their man-made images and directed their worship to the one true God. Do we have false gods today? Money, professional athletes, celebrities, position, status, and even ourselves name a few. What would happen if we completely ignored all the distractions and turned to fully worship the Lord Jesus, our God and Savior? The Israelites provide a glimpse of this from our text. See you this weekend!

The Bible says, “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Some approach God with a very cavalier attitude. Others refer to His position and authority with little regard. This week, our study from 1 Samuel 6, Scripture will instruct us on how to approach a holy, righteous, and just God.

Jesus is known for His love and mercy, but the hand of God can be heavy toward those who are against Him. This weekend Pastor Chad will help you understand God's truth from 1 Samuel 5.

What does it look like when God removes His protective hand from your life? This isn’t a pleasant experience, but why does He do it, and can it be avoided? Pastor Chad will be in 1 Samuel 4 this weekend, and you don’t want to miss this life-crucial message.

Have you ever felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit…then ignored it? After that moment, did you ever wonder, “What might have happened if I would have followed?” This weekend Pastor Chad finishes 1 Samuel 3, when Samuel's obedience to God's calling resulted in the hand of the Lord continually working through him.

This weekend we’ll be taking a break from the 1 Samuel series but be sure to make plans to join us onsite for what will be a truly memorable service. You won’t want to miss Pastor Chad’s message this weekend and experience firsthand all that God is going to do at LBC.

A Church for all generations. Weekly Sermons from Lenexa Baptist Church.

A Church for all generations. Weekly Sermons from Lenexa Baptist Church.

A Church for all generations. Weekly Sermons from Lenexa Baptist Church.

Have you ever been completely misunderstood? As you know, perception is not always reality. In 1 Samuel 1, Hannah appeared to be losing it when Eli, the priest, first saw her, but he came to realize she was broken and hurting. This weekend, Pastor Chad begins his message series on Samuel and reveals God’s perfect plan for his life.