Love Worth Finding | Audio Program

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Living Above See Level

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 In 2 Corinthians 4, the Apostle Paul was facing, by all appearances, deep affliction. Yet, he was a man who lived above see level; his perspective shows us how to live in faith in times of trouble. “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen...” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). First, we must recognize the reality of the unseen, spiritual world; what is not seen is more real than that which is seen. Hebrews 11:3 explains that the invisible world was here first. God spoke and made the visible out of the invisible. The invisible world will be here last, as 2 Corinthians 4:18 continues: “For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” According to Scripture, the unseen world is a vital resource. Knowledge of the unseen world helps us when we’re going through times of trouble, fear, or temptation. As Believers, we are not immune to suffering, but we have the power to smile through it because we know God is with us. He offers supernatural strength to those who fix their gaze on what’s unseen. We must release the power of the unseen spiritual world in our own lives. There are three great enemies of our faith that exist in the material world. Appearance, or what we see. We are called to hope in what we don’t see. Adrian Rogers says, “Hope means anticipation that is joined with assurance, which is based on divine promise.” Emotion, or what we feel. God doesn’t do His deepest work in the shallowest part of our emotions. Reason, or what we think. We cannot let our hearts be limited by our logic. Adrian Rogers says, “Faith is not contrary to reason, it goes beyond reason.” When a man lives above see level, he will see the invisible, therefore, he will tap into the unknowable and do the impossible. Apply it to your life Are you going through a time of trouble, fear, or temptation? Fight to live above see level and have hope in what is unseen. Pray that God will open your eyes to see He is with you and will give you supernatural strength to face your afflictions.

Jun 13, 2022

Riding Out the Storm

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Acts 27:20 The Book of Acts tells the story of the Early Church and the missionary voyages of Paul the Apostle. In Acts 27, Paul writes about his experience sailing through a treacherous storm. Paul’s gripping narrative offers us insight into riding out the storms of life. First, we must note the reason for these storms; we will all find ourselves in ferocious waters at some point, due to the nature of this sinful world. Storms can be engineered by our own disobedience or foolishness. God could also send us into a storm for our own development. Or, like Paul in this passage, we could also be dragged into storms by other people. When Paul was a prisoner on his way to Rome, he was transported into a storm by others. His circumstances were out of his own control. Acts 27:9-11 says, “So Paul warned them, ‘Men, I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss to ship and cargo, and to our own lives also.’ But the centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.” When we face difficulties due to other people’s mistakes, Acts 27:9-20 reveals five things not to do if we want to keep the ship afloat: Make decisions in haste (v. 9) Depend upon worldly wisdom rather than godly wisdom (v. 11) Take the easy way out (v. 12) Follow the crowd (v. 12) Depend upon circumstances (v. 13) *If you want an in-depth study of these five things, we invite you to take our Email Challenge, "What Not to Do in a Storm." Verses 14-20 illustrate what happens when an ungodly man gets himself into a storm. His direction dissolves, his effort increases, resources are wasted, and he begins to lose hope. As a result, he becomes very foolish; he’ll try to abandon ship and escape. But the godly will react differently to the storms, as Paul says in Acts 27:22, “But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost...” Paul’s faith in God was stronger than his fear of the storm; as a result, God’s promise to see Paul through to Rome was fulfilled. Adrian Rogers says, “Every bad decision they made could not overrule the will of God. Where God does not rule, He overrules.” Apply it to your life Are you riding out a storm you weren’t expecting? Depend upon godly wisdom and resist the temptation to take the easy way out. Do not depend upon your circumstances. Put your whole faith in God to see you through.

Jun 9, 2022

Tolerance: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 7:1 The new religion of the day is tolerance. What used to be a beautiful concept of recognizing and respecting others’ beliefs without sharing them, is now a toxic practice. Tolerance was once a good virtue, an entitlement to your own opinion. Now, tolerance is an unreasonable thought that all opinions are correct. In Matthew 7:1, Jesus says, “Judge not, that you be not judged…” In order to understand the true context of this command, we must take a hard look at today’s tolerance: the good, the bad, and the ugly. First, we must understand the concept of discrimination: to see what is good and what is bad. Before it became such a heated word, at its core, discrimination simply meant evaluation. Once we evaluate the difference between good and bad, we must eliminate what is bad, and appropriate what is good. The Bible urges us to use this critical thought process to discern what is good and bad. Judgment based on Scripture is considered righteous, but judgment measured out of our own heart and mind is wrong. Second, we must acknowledge the time for toleration. In Matthew 7, Jesus commands us to tolerate each other’s faults. This doesn’t mean we deny others’ faults, it simply forbids us from exercising unmerciful, self-righteous condemnation. Luke 6:36-37 instructs, “Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” We have no right to judge others this way, yet we tend to execute merciless judgment over each other. This is rooted in our own iniquities, insecurities, and ignorance. Adrian Rogers says, “There is no one big enough, no one just enough, no one loving enough to judge us but God Himself; and surely the judge of all Heaven and Earth will do right.” Finally, there must be a time for serious self-examination. Matthew 7:3 says, “And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?” In examining our own hearts and standing with God, we must be hard on our own sins and merciful with others. Apply it to your life Adrian Rogers says, “There are people who are hurting, in the church and out of the church. They don’t need your condemnation; they need your mercy.”

Jun 7, 2022

God is Not Fair

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 20:1-15 Fairness is a wonderful human attribute we learn about when we’re young and demand of each other as we grow. In Matthew 20:1-15, Jesus shares the parable of the vineyard workers. The owner of the vineyard rises early to hire laborers, then adds hired laborers at various times throughout the day. At the end of the day, he pays his laborers all the same wages. This may not seem “fair” in our human understanding, but we must remember that God is not fair, but He is good. First, this passage shows us that it’s always too soon to quit, but never too late to start. Though it is better for us to start serving God early in life, it is never too late; He calls us to the vineyard, even at the eleventh hour. Second, if we bargain with God, we will cheat ourselves. Matthew 20:2 reveals that the early workers had haggled with the owner for more money until they finally came to an agreement. Yet, they are surprised when the owner offers the same wage to the later laborers. Third, it is wise to let God keep the books; if we try to keep a record of our service, we run the risk of taking credit we don’t deserve. Fourth, don’t look for fairness; ask for mercy. Fairness is based on the idea that we are owed something, but God does not owe us anything. As sinners, He deals with us on the basis of justice and mercy, and if we ask for justice, we will get exactly what we deserve. Instead, we should beg for mercy. Finally, another’s blessing is never our own loss; just because the vineyard owner blessed the later workers doesn’t mean the early workers lacked. Likewise, when we see God bless others “more” than He blesses us, we are not losing anything. Adrian Rogers says, “We will be much happier in this life if we take our eyes off of our brothers and sisters, put our eyes on the Lord Jesus Christ, and be grateful for what He does.” Apply it to your life Have you been called to the vineyard to serve our Lord Jesus Christ? It’s never too late to start. If you have served Christ for a while now, remember there is no seniority in the kingdom of God. Welcome your brothers and sisters in gratitude and rejoice in each other’s blessings.

Jun 3, 2022

Crossing God's Deadline

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 29:1 Proverbs 29:1 says, “He who is often rebuked, and hardens his neck, will suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” Can a man spiritually pass the point of no return? Can he be so willfully rebellious that God will give up on him? The answer is yes, and that’s a frightening thing. God is a God of infinite love, yes, but He’s also a God of wrath and judgment. There is a deadline, and if anyone crosses God’s deadline, his doom is sealed. We must listen to the warnings God graciously gives us before we reach the point of no return. When we have sinned against God, He convicts us through the Holy Spirit, physical illness, sorrows, good things, and godly people. He uses these things to guide and correct us. Yet, when we choose our stubborn rebellion over this conviction, we make it more and more difficult for ourselves to ever turn back to God. When we’ve hardened our necks (as stated in Proverbs 29:1), there is bound to come sudden destruction; not only in our minds, with strong delusions, but in our spirits as well. We will find that the Holy Spirit of God no longer speaks to us and that God no longer draws us in. We all think we have more time to get right with God, but sometimes, this isn’t the case. Once your heart no longer beats, your destiny is settled, and there is no second chance. God convicts because He loves you so much. He wants to save you. His reproof is rooted in love. If you continue to reject it, destruction will follow. There is good news, though. Anybody who wants to be saved can be. The man who crosses the deadline has no desire to be saved. But if you have a desire to be saved, the Holy Spirit of God is working in you; it’s not too late. Apply it to your life Have you listened to God’s conviction or have you remained stubborn in your rebellion? You must be receptive to God’s loving correction if you want a relationship with Him. Pray today, and ask the Lord if there is anything in your life that is not pleasing to Him. Ask for His forgiveness today.

Jun 1, 2022

How God Develops Christian Character

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Romans 5:3 When we give our hearts to Jesus Christ, the work within us has begun, and God will see that it is finished. (See Philippians 1:6.) But we are not automatically mature in our faith and Christian manner. We simply receive the basis for a Christian character that God cultivates within us over time. Romans 5 offers insight as to how God develops Christian character. First, God allows pressure to come. “<a href="http://...we" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...we</a> also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope (Romans 5:3-4). God wants that which will sustain and give strength to come out of us; the only way to draw it out of us is through pressure. We don’t have to understand the trouble and pressure we face; we simply have to stand under it. The second step to building Christian character is patience. God wants to teach us endurance so that our faith is strong enough to withstand the things that cause others to drop out. Third, our patience results in a pure character. Someone who has gone through the experiences of tribulation and perseverance has a refined faith, pure as gold. Adrian Rogers says, “A refiner of gold knows when the gold is pure when he can see his own face reflected in it; so our Lord wants to see His character reflected in us.” Finally, our purity of faith results in hope. Romans 5:5 says, “Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” We receive hope through our tribulations because they teach us that God is faithful and He sees us through them. Hebrews 6:19 says, “This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast…” Adrian Rogers says, “Hope is not wishful desire; it means rock-ribbed assurance based on the Word and character of God.” Apply it to your life If you are feeling pressure today, understand that these are not obstacles, but opportunities. We glory in tribulation because God knows what He is up to. Trust in Him to use this experience to develop patience, which refines your faith and produces hope and steadfast assurance in Him.

May 31, 2022

The Perils of Postponement

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 27:1 There are a few reasons people reject the Gospel upon hearing it. Some are rebellious, others are too self-righteous to recognize their need for a Savior. But perhaps the most common reason is procrastination. People will put it off, thinking that they will have plenty of time to receive Christ later on. But Proverbs 27:1 warns us of the perils of postponement: “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.” There are four reasons why no one should put off being saved. First, if we put it off until tomorrow, we will lose today. Adrian Rogers says, “A day lived without the Lord Jesus is a day that is lost for all eternity.” Second, our hearts will grow harder. In Acts 24, Paul is a prisoner of Caesarea. The Roman judge, Felix, calls for him to answer questions he has about Jesus Christ. Paul preaches a Christ-centered message, and the conviction of the Holy Spirit is so strong, Felix trembles. Felix was at the threshold of salvation, but then he did something that so many people do: he told Paul, “When I have a convenient season, I will call for you” (Acts 24:25). As a result, Felix lost his conviction; he strayed further and further away from God. Likewise, our hearts will get harder over time; it will be more difficult for us to receive Jesus tomorrow than it will be today. Adrian Rogers says, “Tomorrow you will have more sin to repent of. And tomorrow you will have a harder heart to repent with.” Third, there is always the danger of sudden death. Death is a reality many of us choose to ignore. But every day is a gift from God; it is arrogant to assume we will live to see another day, and ignorant to assume what each day will look like. Finally, Jesus is coming again, and those who aren’t saved will be left behind. We are closer to the Second Coming than ever before; if He comes while you are unsaved, it will be too late for you. This is why we ought to be vigilant, taking advantage of the day we’ve been given to receive salvation and follow Jesus. Apply it to your life Are you certain that you are saved? As Proverbs 27 warns us, every day is a gift from God; don’t waste today unsaved.

May 27, 2022

Cardboard Christians

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 21:22-28 The great hunger of every human heart is to know Jesus in a real way. The world is tired of hypocrisy and games; the only way we will reach people with the Gospel is if we are real, not cardboard, Christians. Proverbs 21:28 says, “A false witness shall perish, but the man who hears him will speak endlessly.” This passage reveals the fatality of a false witness; it is dangerous to be a phony. In Matthew 7:21-23, Jesus gives a grave warning to those who merely appear to be saved. He warns us of their false praying, false teaching, and false power. Though they seem to have done a lot of good for the Kingdom of God, they have done it in vain, because they are not truly born again. Yet, this passage also addresses the reality of a faithful witness. There are three marks of a true Christian that signify that his worship is real. First, he has a listening worship. No one is prepared to serve the Lord until he has first heard the Lord. In John 10:27, Jesus says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” We hear God through prayer and through the power of Scripture. The Bible has the power to convert, to conquer, to counsel, and to commune. Second, he has a faithful witness. Because the faithful witness listens to God, he speaks of what God has done in him. Adrian Rogers says, “We dare not speak for God until we’ve heard God. But if we’ve heard God, we dare not be silent.” We are all called to be witnesses. Yet we cannot speak of what we haven’t seen or heard. The mark of a Christian is the burden for souls and the burning desire to share Jesus with others. Finally, he has a lasting walk. 1 John 2:19 explains how cardboard Christians do not last: “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us…” True, solid faith lasts; we have the joy to know that those who are truly in Christ Jesus can never be separated from Him. Apply it to your life Are you a faithful witness—having heard from God, now with a desire to share Him with others? Consider your walk with Christ today; be sure you are rooted in real faith.

May 26, 2022

The Backslider

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 14:14 King David, though a man after God’s own heart, was a great sinner and backslider. In 2 Samuel 11, he committed adultery and, in covering it up, he committed murder. But in 2 Samuel 12, we find that David was also a great repenter. He exemplifies the way back to God after we slide into sin. We must first recognize the causes of David’s sin. In a time of war, David was at home while his army fought without him. Adrian Rogers says, “The sin of omission is failure to do what you ought to be doing.” David’s casualness quickly turned into a careless, compulsive affair with a married woman. That carelessness turned into callousness. After committing the hot-blooded sin of adultery, David murdered his mistress’ husband, Uriah, in cold blood. We also see the costs David faced when he covered up his sins rather than confess them. He aged prematurely, his body groaned inwardly under heavy conviction, and he experienced a spiritual dryness. Proverbs 28:13 says, “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.” David’s backsliding was a critical condition. As children of God, the Holy Spirit convicts us of our sins until we confess them. If we do not, God must chastise us as he did David. God is more interested in our relationship with Him than anything else; He will do whatever He has to in order to restore it. Then, God will use someone or something in our lives to confront us about our sins. For David, he sent the prophet Nathan, before his continual sin cost him his life. 2 Samuel 12:13 conveys that, had David persisted in his sin, God would have killed him. Once David realized how far he had drifted from God, he was desperate to find the way back. We don’t have to carry around our own condemnation anymore; we can be clean. Apply it to your life Proverbs 14:14 says, “The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways, but a good man will be satisfied from above.” Do you have any unconfessed sin weighing on you today? Ask God to search your heart and reveal your sin to you. Confess it, and be cleansed by God’s forgiveness.

May 24, 2022

True Riches

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 13:7 Adrian Rogers says, “The measure of a man is what that man thinks about money.” The Bible does not condemn having money, nor does it put a premium on poverty. But there are many Believers who do not understand the meaning of true riches. Proverbs 13:7 says, “There is one who makes himself rich, yet has nothing…” This passage first reveals the poverty of the godless rich. There are several ways for a man to be wealthy in the eyes of the world yet have a poverty-stricken spirit. A man is poor, no matter how much he has, when he seeks satisfaction in his money. Our lives are not a sum of our possessions; when we act as if they are, we’ll be empty. A man is also poor when his money increases his trouble. There comes a point when all that we think we need is actually a burden rather than a blessing. A man is poor when the goal of his life is making money. This consuming drive will control his character and distort his values. A man is also poor when he has no treasure in Heaven. We will not bring our earthly riches with us into Heaven. Anything of real value is of lasting value; the more we give of it, the more we have of it. Finally, a man is poor when he doesn’t have Jesus in his heart. We cannot buy our way into Heaven. Our earthly riches will do us no good on Judgment Day; we cannot bribe the Judge. Proverbs 13:7 also describes the prosperity of the godly poor: “<a href="http://...and" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...and</a> one who makes himself poor, yet has great riches.” Money is not evil, but it does not equate to godliness. A man is truly rich, no matter how little he has, when he is content with what he has been given. He has spiritual riches: being right with God, having hope, purpose, and peace in life. He has secure riches: the inheritance reserved for him in Heaven cannot be destroyed. He has a godly legacy to leave behind. Finally, he has satisfying riches, for his riches are found in the Lord. Apply it to your life Do you have true riches that are spiritual, secure, and satisfying?

May 23, 2022

Crossing God's Deadline

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 29:1 In front of every unsaved person, there is a deadline. If we cross God’s deadline, it is too late. Proverbs 29:1 reveals: “He who is often rebuked, and hardens his neck, will suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” There are three thoughts to draw from this passage, so that we may never know the pain of crossing God’s deadline. God deals with sinners over and over again, convicting us in loving patience. He speaks to us through the Holy Spirit and through situations we face. God also speaks through His believers and through Scripture. But sometimes, when God convicts, we still rebel; Proverbs explains that a stiffened neck represents the refusal of God’s conviction. Sometimes people harden their necks to the Gospel by procrastination. Postponing salvation is detrimental for three reasons: If you wait until tomorrow, you’ll lose tonight; something worse may come tomorrow, or tomorrow may not come. Another way people harden their necks is by pride. Many are afraid of what other people will think if they confess their sins. Adrian Rogers says, “When God judges your sin, He does not judge primarily by the outward sin committed, but by the inward light rejected.” People also harden their necks because of worldly pleasures. They are afraid to give their hearts to Jesus because they are afraid of what they will have to give up. They forget that the only things God asks us to give up are things that hurt us. Adrian Rogers says, “If it’ll make you healthy, happy, holy and wholesome, God says, ‘Help yourself.’” When man rebels against God’s convictions and reaches that deadline, he will face sudden destruction. His mind will be destroyed through strong delusion; because he has refused the truth, he will believe lies. His spirit will be destroyed through spiritual desertion; the Holy Spirit will withdraw Himself from a rebellious man. His body will be destroyed through sudden death; the remedy will no longer be available. Then he will face a settled destiny. Once he has crossed God’s deadline, judgment begins; there is no turning back. Once he is in Hell, he is broken beyond repair. What a powerful reminder to come to Jesus while we can. Apply it to your life This is the day to be saved. It is the day to listen to God’s conviction, give up your stubborn rebellion and change your settled destiny before it’s too late.

May 19, 2022

Wisdom's Final Call

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 1:20 Adrian Rogers says, “The voice of wisdom is the voice of God; when wisdom speaks, God speaks.” Wisdom is perhaps the most important virtue, and there is a deadline to obtain it. One of these days, God will issue His final call for wisdom, as seen in Proverbs 1:20-33. This passage reveals the invitation of wisdom. “Wisdom calls aloud outside; she raises her voice in the open squares… ‘How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? For scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge…’” (Proverbs 1:20-22). The call to wisdom is a public invitation available to anyone who would seek it. It is a pressing matter, yet it is also a patient invitation; though many will continue in their folly, Wisdom continues to call people unto herself. This passage explains the indoctrination of wisdom. “Turn at my rebuke; surely I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you’” (Proverbs 1:23). We can diligently memorize the facts, dates, and events in Scripture, but we’ll never understand its wisdom until we repent of our folly. Adrian Rogers says, “The only way you’re going to know the truth of God’s Word is for the Holy Spirit to turn the light on in your sin-darkened soul.” Once a sinner repents, the Spirit will reveal the wisdom of Scripture and affirm its reliability in his heart. Finally, this passage conveys the indignation of wisdom. “They would have none of my counsel and despised my every rebuke. Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled to the full with their own fancies” (Proverbs 1:30-31). When the call to wisdom is rejected time and time again, the invitation will eventually turn to indignation. This derision will lead to desolation; no longer will God’s voice be heard, no longer will His hand be outstretched. This will lead to sure destruction. There is coming a time when lost sinners will stand before the judgment of God, asking for mercy. Today is the day of mercy; wisdom stretches her hands, lifts up her voice, offers herself to us. May we repent of our foolish ways before it is too late. Apply it to your life Have you accepted the invitation of wisdom? Today is the day to repent of your ways and be filled with the Spirit of God.

May 17, 2022

Beware the Beast

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Revelation 13:1-8 Scripture offers prophecies to warn us of the future and edify us as we live through these Last Days. Revelation 13 describes a man, the antichrist, who will rise to power during the Great Tribulation; we must beware of this beast. This passage first describes the social unrest that proceeds the beast: “And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea…” (Revelation 13:1). The sea symbolizes society in turmoil and distress, as the Bible claims wicked people are like the troubled sea. (Isaiah 57:20). This desperately wicked world is ripe for the antichrist’s entrance. This passage also shares the beast’s satanic attributes: “<a href="http://...like" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...like</a> a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion” (Revelation 13:2). Third, we see how the beast will seduce the world. Revelation 13:3 claims the beast will seem appealing, charming, and clever. The whole world will marvel at this man, who disguises himself as a man of peace. But this passage also addresses his sinister ambitions. “Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation” (Revelation 13:6-7). He will be driven to deify Satan, defy the Savior, destroy the saints, dominate society and delude sinners. Finally, this passage warns us of the false prophet, who will present the beast to the whole world. Much like the Holy Spirit brings people to worship Jesus, the false prophet is designed to bring people to worship the beast in the End Times. Revelation 13:13-16 explains that the false prophet—who by causing fire in the heavens, worship of an image of the beast, and controlling the world’s commerce through a mark of the beast—will bring the entire world to the beast’s feet. Adrian Rogers says, “If you’re not sealed by the Spirit, you will be branded by the beast.” Apply it to your life Jesus is coming back soon; would you be bold enough to point people to Him, today?

May 16, 2022

How to Have a Steadfast Hope in a Shaky World

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10 Though it has been anticipated for over two thousand years, Jesus Christ could come again at any moment, as prophesied in the Book of Revelation. But as children of God, we have a settled faith. 2 Thessalonians 1-2 reveals how to have a steadfast hope in a shaky world: “and to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels” (1:7). First, we need not be dismayed; when Jesus comes again, His lordship will be revealed. Though we don’t know the exact time or day, we know He will return exactly on time. “…when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed” (1:10). We will be witnesses of His redeeming love, saving grace, and keeping power; our testimonies will be what brings others to wonder at Him as well. Secondly, we need not be deceived; the devil is a liar and inspires deception. 2 Thessalonians 2:3 states: “Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition…” As Jesus says, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9); the antichrist will come directly from the devil. Though his wickedness is already at work in this world, the antichrist also has a precise timeframe in which he will be revealed (2:6-7). Finally, we need not be disappointed. 2 Thessalonians 2:8 reveals, “And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming.” Adrian Rogers explains, “The same Jesus that spoke them into existence is going to speak them into oblivion.” Jesus, who came first to seek and to save, will return with judgment. He came first in mercy; He will return in flaming fire, to take vengeance. He came first in humility; He will return in incredible power. Apply it to your life Knowing our Lord is returning soon, there are a few things to remember as we hold onto our hope in this shaky world: Pray continuously. Witness to anyone and everyone. Worship God as a family. Don’t be dismayed by what you see on the news. Know that your hope is in Jesus Christ, steadfast and sure.

May 12, 2022

A Thief in the Night

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 If we believe in our hearts that Jesus is coming again, we must be ready for His return; 1 Thessalonians 5:2 says He will come “like a thief in the night.” This chapter, 1 Thessalonians 5, offers four truths about Jesus’ glorious return. First, it will be a surprising day. We are certain that He is coming, but we do not know when. As we wait for Him, we should be sharing our faith with others, so that they are also ready for the Second Coming. Adrian Rogers says, “Jesus Christ is coming; He came on time, He was born on time, He died on time, and He rose on time. He’s coming again in His own time; He will never be late.” Second, we can escape sudden destruction. “But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief” (1 Thessalonians 5:4). The day of Christ’s return will be a solemn, sudden, and sure day—the calm before the storm of judgment to come. On that day, He will rapture His Church from the world, and believers will escape the Great Tribulation prophesied in Revelation. Third, we must endure this surrounding darkness. We live in a world plagued by moral, spiritual, and political darkness. As children of God, we must be aware and wise up, be awake and get up, and be alert and dress up—putting on the armor of God. According to 1 Thessalonians 5:8, we need to get our hearts right and keep our heads right: “But let us who are of the day be sober.” Finally, we will experience a sure deliverance: “For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:9-11). This passage explains that we can expect to be delivered from His wrath. This assurance is meant to edify us in these Last Days. As God rescued Noah and his family before flooding the Earth in Genesis 6, so will He rapture His Church before the Great Tribulation. Apply it to your life As we wait with expectation for Jesus’ return, we should be in the habit of sharing the Gospel. Adrian Rogers says, “Get your head out of the clouds of prophecy and get your feet on the pavement of soul-winning.”

May 11, 2022

When Time Runs Out

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Daniel 9:20-27 Before Jesus stepped into our world the first time, Daniel 9 predicted His Second Coming. This Old Testament passage can be seen as an outline of the things to come in the Last Days, when time runs out. “Seventy weeks are determined for your people and for your holy city…” (Daniel 9:24). This passage first designates the period of time (490 years), the people (God’s chosen people, Israel), and the place (the Holy City of Jerusalem) to take center stage in the End Times. This passage also determines the prophecy’s purpose: “<a href="http://...to" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...to</a> finish the transgression, to make an end of sins, to make reconciliation for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy, and to anoint the Most Holy” (Daniel 9:24). Adrian Rogers says, “God has a plan and in 490 years, He’s going to finish that plan; nothing has gotten out of hand, not a jot or a tittle will fail from the law, till all has been fulfilled.” This passage also reveals how it will come about. “Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the command to restore and build Jerusalem until Messiah the Prince…” (Daniel 9:25). This command to rebuild Jerusalem was given in the Book of Nehemiah; this is when God’s clock started ticking. Adding up the years recorded in the Bible concerning Israel’s commencement and construction, we calculate 483 of the 490 years prophesied. When Jesus came, the clock stopped and it has yet to resume; there are seven more years of biblical prophecy yet to be fulfilled. Daniel also saw Jerusalem being destroyed, symbolizing how God’s chosen people (Israel) rejected Him. We are living in an undetermined period of time marked by wars and desolations as God deals with Israel. But once the Bride is complete, and the last soul is finally redeemed (Romans 11:25), Jesus will return to rapture the Church, and the clock will begin ticking again. After the seven years of Tribulation, when the 490 years are complete, Jesus will step in once again. As Adrian Rogers says, “This time, Jesus is not coming for His church, rather with His church in power and great glory; 777 will take care of 666.” Apply it to your life Study the prophecies in Daniel 9 with humility and reverence; ask the Lord to help you understand it and affirm it in your heart today.

May 9, 2022

Magnificent Mother

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Samuel 1:10-28 There is a war against motherhood in our world. Perhaps the most powerful and influential class of people in the world today are magnificent mothers. 1 Samuel 1 tells the story of Hannah, a barren woman who wanted more than anything else to have a son. After much prayer, God gave Hannah a son named Samuel, who was considered one of the greatest prophets of the Old Testament. Hannah’s story offers five powerful principles of magnificent motherhood. The first is the principle of proper priority. “And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed to the Lord and wept in anguish” (1 Samuel 1:10). Hannah had a God-given instinct to be a mother. She recognized that there is no greater earthly blessing than children. The second principle is the power of prayer. Adrian Rogers says, “The time to begin to raise godly children is before they're born, and even before they're conceived.” Hannah is one of several women in the Bible who were considered barren, and later given children by God; other examples are Sarah, Rachel, Ruth, and Elizabeth. Their children went on to bless the world and glorify God. Understanding this, we should begin praying for our children before they are ever conceived. The third principle is purpose. Hannah’s reason for wanting a child was to dedicate him back to God; she wanted to glorify God through her child. Our prayers for our children should not regard their wealth or power, but how they will glorify God. The fourth principle is persistence. “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition which you have asked of Him” (1 Samuel 1:17). Hannah was a woman of prayer, but not just prayer easily uttered and soon forgotten; she continued to pray before and after this child was born. By her example, we learn to never waver in our prayers, no matter how dark the circumstances. Finally, there’s the principle of persuasion. A mother makes the deepest impression on a child; her chief weapon in her arsenal is the influence she has over her children. Apply it to your life Are you raising your children for the glory of God? Remember, those who will take that priority, make that prayer, own that purpose, commit to that persistence and persuasion, by the grace of God, will raise godly children.

May 6, 2022

In the Twinkling of an Eye

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 “Rapture” means to be caught up or snatched away speedily; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 explores the sacred mystery of the Rapture, which is prophesied in the Book of Revelation. “Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:17). The central figure of this event is Jesus Christ, who is returning to rapture His church: “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first” (1 Thessalonians 4:16). When Jesus descends with a shout, the dead in Christ rise first, then the living saints will be caught up to meet them in the air. Adrian Rogers says, “If you have the same nature as Jesus Christ when He comes again, you’re the one going up, whether you’re beneath the ground or on top of the ground. If you’ve been Heaven-born, you will be Heaven-bound.” This passage should be of comfort to us, knowing that we will meet Him in the air. We are assured of the rapture by the saving work of the Lord, which is the Gospel. We are also assured by the Word of the Lord, which is Scripture. Though we don’t know the exact date when the rapture will occur, we know it is close and certain; it will happen “in the twinkling of an eye, at the sound of the last trump” (1 Corinthians 15:51-52). There will be signs of the times; these don’t predict the Second Coming but simply affirm it will take place. Though the “when” of the Rapture is a mystery, the “why” is clear; it is God’s divine strategy to rescue His Bride from the Great Tribulation to come. It is when we will reunite with our fellow Christians who have died, as we are all received by the Bridegroom, Jesus Christ. After we are caught up in the air, the Bridegroom will take us, His Bride, to the place He has prepared for us. Apply it to your life You can have peace in these treacherous Last Days if you keep your eyes on Jesus’ Second Coming; learn of it, live for it, long for it, and share it with others.

May 4, 2022

Living on the Edge of Eternity

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Revelation 1:1-13 The Book of Revelation was divinely written to inspire and warn those living on the edge of eternity. In Revelation 1, we are given a formal introduction to the contents of the whole book. First, we see the central Person of Revelation, which is Jesus Christ. “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants—things which must shortly take place...” (Revelation 1:1). The Book of Revelation is the unveiling of Jesus Christ; we will see Him in a different way than we’ve seen Him before. Adrian Rogers says, “Jesus is the hero of the Bible; if you read the Bible and you don’t find Jesus, go back and reread it.” Revelation 1:1 also presents our clear purpose as servants of Jesus Christ. We are bondslaves who seek to understand the mysteries of Scripture because we love our Master. There is also a comforting promise within this text: “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near” (Revelation 1:3). We live in a messy, confusing world that is cursed with sin and pain. Through this book, we can understand the mystery of history and make sense out of suffering. This text also explains Revelation’s certain prophecy. We are surely living in the Last Days. There are no more prophecies that need to be fulfilled before Jesus can come. Revelation reminds us of the things which were, things which are, and which shall be. It deals with the past, present, and future. According to the Book of Revelation, the future includes the rapture of the saints and the tribulation of this world. It prophesies the Battle of Armageddon, the beast, the millennium, and the glorification of the Savior. It tells us of the final judgment, in which each of us will learn of the eternal state of our souls. But lastly, at the end of this book, we’re offered the last invitation of the whole Bible: “Come” (Revelation 22:17)! As we live on the edge of eternity, may we come to Jesus before it’s too late. Apply it to your life Revelation 22:20 says, “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quickly.’ Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” If you want stability on the edge of eternity, keep your eyes on the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

May 2, 2022

Christ-Like Love

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: John 13:34 Perhaps our greatest human need is to be loved and to give love to someone else. Not only are we, as Christians, called to love others, but we are also called to exhibit a Christ-like love. In John 13:34, Jesus says, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” Christ-like love is selfless. In a society based on self-love, self-help, and self-fulfillment, we are called to humble ourselves as Jesus did. Adrian Rogers says, “The grace of God exalts a man without inflating him, and it humbles a man without debasing him. We don’t live in sinful exaggeration or false humiliation, but in sober estimation.” When we experience God’s grace, through faith, we are at peace within ourselves to show love to others in fellowship. Christ-like love is also steadfast. Nothing we can do will make God love us any more or any less. The cross of Jesus showed that His love could stand the test of trials and extreme pressure; it will never let us go, even until the very end. Christ-like love serves. As Jesus gave this commandment, He was performing the duties of a servant, washing His disciples’ feet—even those of Judas, who would betray Him later that night. Jesus practiced what He preached; He didn’t give the disciples what they deserved, rather, what they needed. Adrian Rogers says, “You can’t look down on people while you are washing their feet.” Finally, Christ-like love is sanctifying. In this passage, Jesus uses the example of foot-washing to symbolize sanctification. As Jesus washed the dirt from their feet, He spoke of the spiritual defilement in their lives so that they may understand what it meant to be cleansed from within. Once we are saved, we are always saved—we are totally cleansed from the inside out, white as snow. But we live in a dirty, grimy world and sometimes we need to have our spiritual feet washed; this is called sanctification. As Jesus demonstrates in this passage, we show love to each other by encouraging sanctification. We show this with humility, steadfastness, and service, just as Jesus did. Apply it to your life Do you exhibit a selfless, steadfast, serving, sanctifying love to others? As you study Scripture today, ask God to reveal ways for you to show Christ-like love to others.

Apr 29, 2022

The Care and Maintenance of Your Child

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Mark 10:13 In Mark 10, Jesus revealed His great love for children, and their tremendous importance to His kingdom. Our children are blessed gifts and bundles of potentiality from God, which we are responsible for teaching and training up. Though it is not by any means easy, it is simple; the Bible offers insight on the care and maintenance of our children. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” We must communicate with our children, and we must begin early. Children have a God-given instinct to ask why—a beautiful curiosity that we must nurture. They believe our every word, and trust us until we give them reason not to. What an amazing opportunity to teach and train our children. We must see our children as unique; they are like no other, and they must know they were specifically designed by God. When we see our children as unique before God, we learn to communicate with them creatively. We must also be real with our children, letting them see our faults so that they learn, not only how to succeed, but how to fail. Adrian Rogers says, “Your kids don’t demand perfection, but they do demand reality.” There must also be correction; we discipline our children because we love them and because our human nature is foolish. Children need to understand morality and learn to fear God. When we discipline our children, we spare ourselves heartache and disgrace in the long run, and we may save them from further judgment. We must begin disciplining when a child is old enough to knowingly and willfully disobey. We should rebuke before we chastise, disciplining with love and patience, letting it be over once it’s over, and never holding grudges. Ultimately, we pray that there will be a conversion; our holy goal is to lead our children to Jesus. We should pray for their salvation and seek it out early. Our responsibility is not to block or shove our children into a relationship with Jesus, but rather, to guide them in wisdom. Apply it to your life Are you raising your children with communication, correction, and conversion in mind? Make these three things your goal today; aim to care for your children in a way that glorifies the Lord.

Apr 27, 2022

Total Togetherness

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Peter 3:7-9 God’s plan for marriage is for husband and wife to become one flesh, totally together as one. In order to be this intimate, men and women must have constant, healthy communication. 1 Peter 3 offers four steps to total intimacy and total togetherness in marriage. Husbands must dwell with their wives thoughtfully: “Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel...” (1 Peter 3:7). Men and women are equal in worth before God, but they are quite different and do not serve the same function. Neither is better or worse—God put these differences in us to complement each other. Men are designed to be initiators, while women are designed to be responders. Men and women are also different in thought. Generally, men tend to think logically, while women tend to think emotionally. Men tend to be inward thinkers, while women tend to be outward talkers. Men tend to be more goal-oriented, while women are generally more relationship-oriented. We must understand our differences and give thought to the other in our communication. We must also dwell together thankfully; we should be in the habit of expressing appreciation for each other, to each other. Adrian Rogers says, “Happy is the man who learns how to express thanksgiving. Nothing will do more to intimacy in a marriage than for you to recognize those character traits and achievements in your wife and give honor to her.” Couples must also communicate their trust in each other, understanding they are “heirs together of the grace of life” (1 Peter 3:7). Husbands must value their wives’ opinions and transparency, so that their wives may speak into their circumstances without fear of retaliation. One way we do this is by praying for each other, with each other. Finally, we must express tenderness: “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous…” (1 Peter 3:8). This passage calls wives the weaker vessel—this does not mean they are inferior, rather, that they are more delicate and should be handled with tenderness, physically and emotionally. We must love in the little things, dwell together as one flesh, and allow our homes to become colonies of Heaven. Apply it to your life God’s Word gives practical insight to reach total togetherness in marriage; if we communicate thoughtfulness, thanksgiving, trust, and tenderness, we can reach total intimacy.

Apr 25, 2022

Safe Sex

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 7:1-11 Sexual immorality completely disintegrates the foundation of a family; a culture that celebrates sexual immorality will result in the fall of a nation. God has given us boundaries, not to harm us, but rather to help and protect us. 1 Corinthians 7 gives a clear, biblical emphasis on safe sex. “Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband” (1 Corinthians 7:2). This passage explains the way of happiness for the married person, by first recognizing the sanctity of safe sex. God’s plan for sex exists in the bounds of holy matrimony; it is part of becoming one flesh. There’s also an element of selflessness, as 1 Corinthians 7:4 says, “The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does.” Adrian Rogers says, “Lust is always marked by getting, but love is always marked by giving.” There is also security in safe sex; as verse 5 explains, a home that does not have a proper sexual attitude is a home that is open to an attack by the enemy. This passage also illustrates the way of helpfulness for the single life. There is nothing wrong or sinful about choosing singleness. It is a gifted life, as 1 Corinthians 7:7 states: “<a href="http://...But" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...But</a> each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that.” But if we are not married, we cannot please God while engaging in sexual activity. If we remain guarded, our singleness leads to a godly life. Finally, this passage also explains the way of holiness for every person, married or single. There are several reasons to keep ourselves morally pure. Immorality is psychologically harmful. It kills true love and endangers future marital happiness. Immorality is one of the greatest dangers to any society; there’s always the danger of conception and of disease. But ultimately, we ought to refrain from sexual immorality, simply because the Word of God clearly teaches against it. Safe sex is a way of happiness for the married life, helpfulness for the single life, and the way of holiness for every life. Apply it to your life Are you living a morally pure life? If you are married, practice safe sex by keeping sex within the bounds of your marriage; if you are single, remain guarded. And no matter your relationship status, strive for holiness.

Apr 22, 2022

Super Glue Marriage

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Genesis 2:21-25 We live in a tragic and dangerous day of disposable marriages; the enemy strives to break up homes to create a vicious cycle of broken people. But marriage is the highest of all earthly relationships. The purpose of marriage is for a man and a woman to come together as one flesh, sharing in the closest bond and communion possible, permanently. Genesis 2 offers instructions to maintain a super-glued marriage—one that stands the test of time. “And Adam said: ‘This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.’ Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh” (Genesis 2:23-24). First, we see that marriage is a commitment meant to last a lifetime. All married couples essentially have the same problems; the difference is in their commitment. Adrian Rogers says, “It is your commitment that sustains your love and marriage, not vice versa.” Second, there must be loving communication. There are five basic levels of communication husbands and wives must learn in order to face difficulties together: Shallow: small talk Factual: facts Intellectual: ideas and opinions Emotional: dreams, goals, and feelings Absolute openness: completely open, unashamed, uninhibited communication. Couples ought to strive to reach that deepest vulnerability of communication, as Genesis 2:25 relays, “And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.” Third, there must be loyal confrontation. When problems arise, we must be ready to confront one another in love. Some of the major conflicts couples face in marriage are selfishness, money, sex, nagging, in-laws, and substance abuse. In order to tackle these conflicts, couples must isolate the problem and learn to attack the problem, not each other. We must deal with problems one at a time as they come up and learn to negotiate with each other—both of us can win if we come to a gentle compromise. Finally, we must pray constantly. In our honesty and humility with God, we find prayerful solutions to tense conflicts. Apply it to your life Is your marriage a super-glued, lasting commitment? Is it full of loving communication and loyal confrontation? Pray over your marriage today, that God would give you a passion and fervor to maintain your marriage.

Apr 20, 2022

What If There Had Been No Easter?

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 This is the Gospel: Jesus Christ died for our sins; He was buried and rose again on the third day. But what if death had conquered—what if Jesus had stayed in the tomb? 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 gives a tragic account of our lives without Jesus—a picture of what our lives would be if there had been no Easter. Preaching would be profitless and our faith would be foolish: “And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty” (1 Corinthians 5:14). If Christ is still in the grave, every preacher of the Gospel is wrong. If Jesus Christ is dead, our faith is also dead, because faith is no better than its subject. Without the resurrection, the disciples would have been deceivers: “Yes, and we are found false witnesses of God, because we have testified of God that He raised up Christ...” (1 Corinthians 5:15). The disciples, who were tortured and persecuted as martyrs, would have had no gain preaching of Christ’s resurrection if He were still dead. Adrian Rogers says, “A man may live for a lie, but not many men willingly die for a lie.” Without Easter, sin would be sovereign: “And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins” (1 Corinthians 5:17)! God cannot overlook our sin; if He did, He would cease to be Holy. We have no hope of forgiveness apart from the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As a result, death would have dominion: “Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished” (1 Corinthians 5:18). If Jesus had not beaten death once and for all, death would have the last word and ultimate dominion. But because Jesus Christ rose from the grave, there is life beyond death. Finally, if there had been no Easter, the future would be fearful: “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable” (1 Corinthians 5:19). Without the resurrection, we are a miserable people, with very little to look forward to. Adrian Rogers says, “Jesus Christ is the one who walked out of that grave and took the sting out of sin. He took the dread out of death, took the gloom out of the grave, and He has given us a hope that is steadfast and sure.” Apply it to your life Do you know who you are in Christ? Do you believe in His death, burial and resurrection?

Apr 15, 2022

Praise Your Way to Victory

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Chronicles 20:1-25 Praise is a powerful thing, in times of joy and in times of help, but especially in times of trouble. 2 Chronicles 20:1-25 shows us how to praise our way to victory in times of opposition. In this passage, King Jehoshaphat faced fierce opposition on all sides. Likewise, every Christian will encounter problems in the form of sin, sorrow, or death. As King Jehoshaphat brought his people together to focus on God through fasting, we must also establish our purpose in times of opposition and seek Him. Third, the King examined his past; in verse 7, he asks God, “Are You not our God, who drove out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel, and gave it to the descendants of Abraham Your friend forever?” In times of trouble, we must look back at the times when God was with us. He will never fail; what He has done before, He will do again. The King embraced God’s promise, that this land was given to Abraham before him as a place for his people to dwell. God has given us something better than the land of Canaan; He has given us victory in Jesus. We have that promise to stand on in times of defeat. In humility, Jehoshaphat kept his eyes fixed on God and not on himself. The battle belonged to God; the King’s only responsibility was to depend upon Him. To prepare for battle, King Jehoshaphat worshiped God and expressed his praise. Adrian Rogers says, “Praise infuses the energy of God and praise confuses the enemies of God.” Because of the praise, the King had victory over his enemy and inherited all his enemies’ possessions; his people enjoyed the provision of God. Adrian Rogers says, “God brings us these problems to bring us to Him; the very things we dread are those things that break with blessings on our heads.” Apply it to your life Learn to see opposition as an opportunity. Seek God before taking action and consider fasting. Remember that God has been faithful in the past; go to His Word, stand on a promise, then ask the Holy Spirit to make that promise a reality in your heart. Refuse to act in the flesh, and instead worship and praise God. Expect Him to send confusion to the enemy and get ready for a blessing.

Apr 13, 2022

The Purpose of His Passion

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Isaiah 53:4-6; 1 Peter 3:18 Adrian Rogers says, “Calvary was not only the Earth’s greatest tragedy, but it was God’s greatest triumph.” Seven hundred years before Jesus Christ suffered and died upon the cross for our sins, the purpose of His passion was prophesied in Isaiah 53. “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). First, we must recognize the substitutionary purpose of the Cross. Jesus died on the cross as our substitute. Our sinfulness separates us from our Holy God. There is no possible way for a just God to overlook our unjust sin. In order to punish sin, yet love the sinner at the same time, God sent His son, Jesus, to reconcile the world. There is a river of blood that runs all the way from Genesis to Revelation, in which God atoned for our sins through sacrifice. Jesus became that final, perfect sacrifice for our sins. Adrian Rogers says, “Salvation does not come by learning lessons from the life of Christ, but by receiving life from the death of Christ.” Second, we see the suffering passion of the Cross. 1 Peter 3:18 says, “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit…” Jesus suffered emotionally; before He faced the cross, Jesus asked God that “if it be possible, let this cup pass…” (Matthew 26:39). The cup is a metaphor for taking on the pollution and punishment of sin. Jesus faced immense physical suffering upon the cross; He died in utter agony in order to satisfy God’s wrath. But praise God, at the end of Jesus’ suffering, we see the settled provision of the cross; in His final moments, Jesus declared, “It is finished.” This statement means our sins were paid for in full. Finally, we understand the saving power of the Cross. Through Christ’s sacrifice, we have been brought to God, made alive by His Spirit. Apply it to your life Do you believe in Jesus Christ, whose death atones for our sins, brings us to God, and makes us alive? Remember His passion and the purpose of the cross; share your faith with others today.

Apr 11, 2022

Liberated Living

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Romans 6:1-19 The grace of God enables us to live godly lives in Christ Jesus and empowers us to live in liberation. Romans 6 gives three basic principles for liberated living. First, we must know our identification with Jesus, who gave Himself for us. “For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin” (Romans 6:5-6). Adrian Rogers explains, “Calvary not only deals with the sin; Calvary deals with the sinner.” Jesus has acted on our behalf; when He died for us, we died with Him. When He was buried, we were buried with Him. And now, in us, we have the same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Second, we must reckon our appropriation of Jesus. “Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:11). Reckoning is acting by faith, on what we know to be true, which is that we are dead to our sins and alive in Christ. Third, we must yield our emancipation to Christ. The victorious life is God’s work in us; we cannot do it without Him, and He will not do it without us. Yielding begins when we dethrone sin. We must choose against our old master. No longer will our eyes be a tool for sin, nor our ears be sin’s instruments, nor will our hands do its bidding. Next, we must enthrone the Savior. “<a href="http://...but" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...but</a> present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God” (Romans 6:13). We must make Jesus Lord of our lives, enslaving ourselves to Him, as Romans 6:18 explains: “And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.” When we become slaves of Christ, we receive new freedom, faithfulness, and fruitfulness. God will begin to live His life in us, claiming victory every step of the way. Apply it to your life Do you know that you identify with Jesus in His death, burial, and resurrection? Have you reckoned your life to what you believe? Have you yielded to Him?

Apr 7, 2022

It's All About Jesus

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Psalm 22 The Old Testament and the New Testament tell the same story of Jesus Christ. The entire Bible is all about Jesus and the fulfilled prophecy of His salvation. Psalm 22 greatly details the crucifixion of Jesus Christ a thousand years before He was born. This Old Testament picture of Calvary first shares the amazing prophecy of the cross. “O My God, I cry in the daytime, but You do not hear; and in the night season, and am not silent” (Psalm 22:2). This verse mimics some of Jesus’ final words on the cross, as recorded in Matthew 27. Supernatural darkness came over the Earth at noonday, making it both day and night. Jesus was mocked and scorned, a prophecy fulfilled, not by Himself, but by His enemies. “I am poured out like water, and all My bones are out of joint; My heart is like wax; It has melted within Me” (Psalm 22:14). According to the Gospels, Jesus’s bones were never broken; rather, He was pierced, and blood and water spilled from His side. These verses also prophesied that He’d also be stripped of his clothing, and lots cast for His garments. Second, this passage describes the agonizing passion of the cross; no one has suffered like Jesus did. To pay for our redemption and forgiveness, Jesus suffered at the hands of three. First, He suffered at the holy hand of God; in the moment Jesus bore our sins, God’s eyes were too pure to look upon Him. As He was dying, Jesus was forsaken by the Father. (See Psalm 22:1.) He also suffered at the hateful hand of man, as verse 6 says, “But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised by the people.” And He suffered at the hellish hands of Satan; all of Hell’s demonic power was concentrated upon the cross. But thank God, Psalm 22 also tells of the abounding provision of the cross. As a prophet, Jesus declares the Father; and as our great High Priest, He delivers the faithful. Adrian Rogers says, “Salvation is more than having our sins forgiven; it is coming to a relationship where we can know God intimately and personally for ourselves.” Apply it to your life Do you serve Jesus Christ—the prophet and priest? Scriptures proclaim that this world belongs to Him, and He is coming back to it, soon.

Apr 5, 2022

Four Principles of Victory

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Exodus 17:8-11 In this spiritual battle against the world, the devil, and the flesh, we can oftentimes be our own biggest enemies. In Exodus 17, God called the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and led them through the wilderness toward Canaan. Reading this story as Christians, we see Egypt represents the world, Pharaoh the devil, and Canaan the victorious life. There are four principles of victory found in this passage. First, we must receive a gracious provision. In Exodus 17, the Israelites are in the barren land, dying of thirst. God instructs Moses to strike a rock with his rod, and when he does, water gushes from the rock. This is a glorious illustration of our salvation. Jesus, the rock of ages, was smitten for us. And blood and water that flowed from His side represent the Holy Spirit. Second, we must realize God’s grand purpose. Adrian Rogers says, “God’s plan for His people was not merely that they come out of Egypt and go into the wilderness of Sinai. God’s plan for His people was that they go into the land of Canaan. God brought them out that He might bring them in.” Many of us have been brought out of the world, but we’ve never experienced the victory of Canaan. But God has brought us out to bring us in. Third, we must respect the grievous problem. Galatians 5:17 says, “For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh...” As the Amalekites came against the Israelites in their weakest moments, the flesh will come up against us in our journey to the “promised land.” But we must remember the glorious principle: victory is God-given. We overcome the flesh by the power of God. Adrian Rogers says, “Holiness is not the way to Christ; Christ is the way to holiness.” When you take the rod of God, which is the Word, the Power, and the Spirit of God, and hold it high, you will see victory. Apply it to your life Do you need to see a victory in your life -- over your flesh? Remember: holiness is not the way to Christ; rather, Christ is the way to holiness.

Apr 1, 202228 min

The Testing of Your Faith

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Hebrews 11:17-19 Throughout life, we will experience two kinds of tests: those that cause us to stumble, and those that cause us to stand. The devil will tempt us to do evil, while God tests us to do good and make our faith strong and pure. But God may ask us to do something that surprises us, and our response will reveal our true faith. In Hebrews 11, we are reminded of when Abraham’s faith was tested. “By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, of whom it was said, ‘In Isaac your seed shall be called,’ concluding that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead, from which he also received him in a figurative sense” (Hebrews 11:17-19). When we face trials and temptations, there are three questions we should ask ourselves to pass the test of our faith. Can I trust God with the possessions He has given to me? God tested Abraham’s faith by asking him to give back his only beloved son, Isaac. God wanted to know if Abraham loved Him more than he loved Isaac. God does not want a place in our lives; He desires, deserves, and demands preeminence in our lives. We need to consider if there is anything we would not give back to God if He asked for it. Can I trust God with the purpose He has for me? Adrian Rogers says, “Faith is not primarily believing God in spite of the evidence; it is obeying God in spite of the consequences, not having to know why.” Obedience is the proof of our trust in God. We must be informed, intentional and impassioned about seeking the will of God for our lives. Can I trust God with the promises He has made to me? God had already miraculously fulfilled His promises to Abraham before. Though he did not know how He’d do it, Abraham knew God would keep His promises again; and He did. God provided a ram to take Isaac’s place on the altar and gave Abraham back his son. Adrian Rogers says, “We don’t live by explanation; we live by promises.” Apply it to your life Is your faith being tested right now? Remember: the trials that come from God are tailor-made. He knows where you are and He knows your circumstances. Have faith in Him.

Mar 17, 2022

When Parents Pray

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 7:7-11 Nothing will bring you to your knees in prayer like having children; it also gives us a clearer picture of how God the Father provides for His children if only they would ask. In Matthew 7, Jesus shows us not only how to pray, but what happens when parents pray. “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened” (Matthew 7:7-8). First, when we ask, we are expressing our desire. There is no substitute for prayer; unoffered prayer is not only a tragedy, but also a sin. Our Lord has not merely invited us to ask and pray; He has commanded us to ask and pray. Prayer initiates fellowship with God; our faith develops as we wait for Him to answer. If God gave us what we needed without our asking, we would cease to be dependent upon Him. Second, when we seek, we explore our direction. When we go to God, we are seeking His purposes, His presence, or His power. Adrian Rogers says, “Prayer is not bending God’s will to fit our will; prayer is finding the will of God and getting in on it.” Third, when we knock, we are exerting determination. “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him” (Matthew 7:11)! Sometimes, prayers are very direct: we ask, and God gives. Other times, we ask, and God gives us something better than what we’ve requested. Other times, the answer is denied; if we are not asking according to God’s will, He will say no. God will not give us something that will harm us or hinder our walk with Him. But sometimes, the answer isn’t denied, just delayed. This is the time we should continue knocking—keep bringing the request to God in Jesus’ name. We must remember that God is good, wise, and able to do exceedingly more than we could ever ask Him to do. (See Ephesians 3:20.) Apply it to your life Adrian Rogers says, “Learn to pray. Ask. Seek. Knock. When you ask, that’s desire. When you seek, that’s direction. When you knock, that is determination.”

Mar 1, 2022

Tuning Up Tired Marriages

Marriage ought to be a duet, not a duel; we sing the same song, but we take different parts; yet over time, our marriages may fall out of tune. In this message, Adrian Rogers reveals how to tune up a tired marriage.

Feb 25, 2022

When the String Snaps

Perhaps one of the greatest obstacles to the music of marriage is tension in the home. Too much stress is dangerous to the home, our health and our happiness. In this message, Adrian Rogers reveals four things to relieve stress in our families when the string snaps.

Feb 23, 2022

Melody in the Home

God made men and women differently that he might make us one in marriage. Marriage ought to be a duet, not a duel; we sing the same song, but we take different parts. In this message, Adrian Rogers reveals how to have melody in the home.

Feb 21, 2022

Harmony in the Home

In the music of marriage, husbands and wives sing the same song, but they sing different parts. In this message, Adrian Rogers shares how to have harmony in the home and use our divinely designed differences as men and women to glorify God in our marriages.

Feb 18, 2022

Maximum Mom

Proverbs 31 is a poetic tribute to the ideal wife and maximum mom. In this message, Adrian Rogers identifies several virtues of a good and godly woman.

Feb 16, 2022

Father: Leader of the Band

By God’s design, there's to be harmony in the home. The entire household is to be a symphony of praise and worship, and the father is the leader of the band. In this message from Psalm 128, Adrian Rogers reveals several ways dads can be the leaders God has called them to be.

Feb 15, 2022

Seven Words that Can Build a Marriage

God designed the divine institution of marriage and has given us the tools to create blessed homes. In this message, Adrian Rogers shares seven words that can build a marriage and cultivate success in the home.

Feb 11, 2022

Cultivating Contentment in the Home

It is good to desire contentment for our families, and peace despite circumstances. But if money can’t buy it, how can we have it? In this message, Adrian Rogers uses the family described in Psalm 128 to show how to cultivate contentment in the home.

Feb 9, 2022

Sacredness of Marriage

In Matthew 19, Jesus speaks of the sacredness of marriage. In this message, Adrian Rogers explains the origin of marriage, the marring of divorce and the hope of restoration.

Feb 7, 2022

Holy Boldness

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Acts 4:9-33 If there was ever a time for courage, it is now. In a world of cowardly Christians who are afraid of being criticized or disliked, we are called to be bold in our faith. Adrian Rogers says, “Boldness is having the courage to stand for the Lord Jesus Christ in the face of opposition.” We need the same holy boldness Peter and John had in Acts 4. Acts 4:13 says, “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.” There are three principles that are the basis of our courage. The first principle is to keep company with God the Son. Boldness comes from knowing that Jesus Christ is with us and in us. We must make certain that Jesus is real to us and that we are walking with Him daily. Second, we must have confidence in God the Father. “So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord and said: ‘Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them…’” (Acts 4:24). We need to see God for who He really is. God the Father is the Creator of all things, Controller of all things, and Conqueror of all things. Adrian Rogers says, “The man who can kneel before God can stand before anyone else.” Finally, we must receive courage from God the Spirit. “And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness” (Acts 4:31). If only we ask, the Holy Spirit of God will give us courage. The apostles did not ask for safety; they asked for courage, for the ability to do more of what got them in trouble in the first place. As a result of the disciples’ boldness, multitudes of new believers were swept into the kingdom of Heaven. Likewise, we are made bold by the Holy Spirit to express God’s Word, extend God’s Hand and exalt God’s Son. Apply it to your life Are you a bold believer or a cowardly Christian? Take your eyes off your problems and focus your eyes upon Almighty God, the Creator, Controller, and Conqueror of all things.

Jan 12, 2022

The Principles of Power

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Acts 2:1-4 The Day of Pentecost in Acts 2 marked the birth of the Church, and the burst of the Holy Flame that is the Holy Spirit. In Acts 2:1-4, the Holy Spirit was symbolized by fire and wind; it was vocalized by the speaking of tongues. This power was actualized in the disciples, as the Holy Spirit inhabited them and filled them. We must remember the principles of power, first given to us that Day of Pentecost. The Holy Spirit is a promise to be received. “For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call” (Acts 2:39). The Holy Spirit is the one who communicates the things of God. Our human spirits are the instruments of spiritual knowledge. The Holy Spirit of God speaks to your human spirit that you belong to God. God’s promise to us is clear: When we receive the Lord Jesus Christ and obey Him, the Holy Spirit lives in us. Second, the Holy Spirit is a power to be released. God wants us to live with power. We cannot depend on ourselves to be holy; we can’t earn it and we are not worthy of it. But if we repent of our sins, this power is gifted to us. Adrian Rogers says, “Holiness is not the way to Christ; Christ is the way to holiness.” Finally, the Holy Spirit is a Person to be recognized. The Third Person of the Trinity works in us. If we try to take credit for what the Holy Spirit of God is doing, we are taking praise under false pretenses. We need to constantly give God the praise and glory for what He is doing. When we do this, some will be amazed. Others will be amused, mocking us, for they don’t understand the Holy Spirit. But most importantly, there will be those who acknowledge Jesus as their Lord and Savior: “Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them” (Acts 2:41). Apply it to your life Are you consciously, conspicuously filled with the Spirit of God? If not, you’re not just missing a blessing; you’re guilty of rebellion and sin. Consider your faith today; meditate on these principles of power.

Jan 6, 2022

Planning Your Future

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 4:13-17 James 4:15-16 says, “Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.’ But now you boast in your arrogance...” If we’re honest, we all want to know what the future holds; we believe if we know what lies ahead, we can set ourselves up for success and avoid failure. But the Book of James offers three warnings for us in planning our future. First, beware of self-centered planning: “Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit” (James 4:13). This businessman had planned the period of time, the place, procedures, and profits. The problem is he left God out of the plan altogether; he did not consult with God or seek His will. Psalm 32:8 says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” God has a plan for every area of our lives. If we confess our sins, acknowledge Him as Lord and listen closely to Him, He promises to guide us. We must also beware of self-confident presumption: “...whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (James 4:14). Our lives are like vapors -- here for a moment, quickly gone; we don’t know what the future holds, so we must not be frivolous with our time. Finally, beware of self-complacent procrastination. “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17). Procrastination is a very deceptive and dangerous sin. The sins of omission are greater than the sins of commission. Adrian Rogers says, “It is a greater sin to fail to do what you ought to do than to do what you ought not to do.” It is good to plan, but we must commit our plans to God and actively pursue His will for our future. Apply it to your life Would you like for God to guide you this coming year? Adrian Rogers says, “Face your future by giving your heart to Jesus Christ. Let the Holy Spirit of God be in you to guide you and give you a hope that is wonderful and glorious.”

Dec 29, 2021

The Unfinished Story of Christmas

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Thessalonians 1:7-11 At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Jesus, who came to this Earth to save us from our sins. But the story of Christmas is not complete without the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The best is yet to be; the story is not finished until Jesus comes again. There are three things about the unfinished story of Christmas that ought to give us great cheer. First, we don’t need to be disturbed. 2 Thessalonians 1:7 says “<a href="http://...and" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...and</a> to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven…” In these gloriously dark days, our hope is not in politics, sociology, or science. Our hope is in Jesus Christ, who is coming again. When we see Him, we will wonder at His transforming love, His amazing grace, and His keeping power. Second, we should not be deceived. 2 Thessalonians 2:3 says, “Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed…” From the time Jesus Christ came into this world, Satan has been moving against Him. And in the Last Days, Satan will fling his final insult into the face of God: the antichrist. There is unbelievable wickedness in the world today, but its evil is restrained by the Church, which is the salt and the light of the world. When Jesus raptures the Church, corruption will begin, and the antichrist will be revealed. Those who do not receive the truth when it is preached now will believe the antichrist in his reign. Finally, we will not be disappointed. The first time Jesus came, there was no room for Him in the inn; when He comes again, He’s coming as King of kings and Lord and lords. Jesus came the first Christmas to die in the sinner’s place. Jesus is coming the second Christmas to receive the sinner to Himself. Adrian Rogers says, “Our faith looks backward to a crucified Savior. Our love looks upward to a crowned Savior. And our hope looks forward to a coming Savior.” Apply it to your life Do you know Jesus and believe in His First and Second Coming? Do not be disturbed, deceived, or disappointed. Adrian Rogers says, “The one sure hope of this jittery old world is the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.”

Dec 27, 2021

Jesus Christ: The Son of God and God the Son

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Luke 1:35 Many who don’t believe in Jesus will call Him a great moral teacher. But when we look closely at His teachings, we find that He left no room for interpretation: Jesus Christ was the Son of God and God the Son. Luke 1:35 says, “And the angel answered and said to her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.’” The doctrine of the Trinity is what makes our faith different from all other faiths. First, we must recognize the sublime mystery of the Trinity. We will never understand the Holy Trinity by human investigation, logic, or science. The only way we can know about the Holy Trinity is by divine revelation. There is one God, and He is a triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. If we try to understand it on our own, we will lose our minds; if we deny it, we may lose our souls. Adrian Rogers says, “It ought to give us comfort that we don’t understand the Trinity; it means that God is bigger and greater than we are.” Second, we recognize the sacred history of the Trinity. John 1:1-3 says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him, nothing was made that was made.” There is no contradiction between the three persons of the Trinity because they are One. The Trinity, together, created the world, composed the Scriptures, and commissioned the Church. Finally, we recognize the saving ministry of the Trinity. Through the Holy Trinity, we have our salvation. We have been selected by the Father, saved by the Son, and sealed by the Spirit. Apply it to your life It’s not enough to simply accept the intellectual premise of the Holy Trinity. Give your heart to Jesus, the Son of God and God the Son. Adrian Rogers says, “Before God swung this planet into space, He had you in His heart and in His mind.”

Dec 23, 2021

Who is Jesus?

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Colossians 1:12-21 Adrian Rogers says, “To explain Jesus Christ is impossible, to ignore Jesus Christ is disastrous, and to reject Him is fatal.” It is crucial we understand who Jesus Christ is. If we know Him, we will love Him; and if we love Him, we will trust Him. To trust Him is to be radically, dramatically, and eternally transformed. Colossians 1:15 explains how Jesus reveals the Father: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.” God is Spirit—invisible, unfathomable, unapproachable. We will only know God by revelation, and Jesus Christ came to reveal Him to us. We will never know the Father except through the Son; the visible Jesus makes the invisible God known. Colossians 1:18 explains how Jesus rules the future: “And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.” Jesus is the power and preserver of creation: “And He is before all things, and in Him, all things consist” (Colossians 1:17). Adrian Rogers says, “The little baby in Matthew 1 is the Mighty God of Genesis 1; there was nothing made without Him.” Jesus Christ is the glue of the galaxies; He is the one who feeds the sun with its fuel, sets out all the stars, and guides the planets in their orbit. He is the purpose of creation—all things were created by Him, for Him (See Colossians 1:16.). Finally, Colossians 1:21 explains how Jesus reconciles the fallen: “And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled.” Jesus reconciled God and man to a right relationship through His death on the cross. When Jesus created the universes, He did it with His Word. But when He saved us, it took every drop of His blood. We could not make peace with God, so Jesus made peace with the blood of His cross. We need to enter into that peace by faith and trust the Lord Jesus. Apply it to your life Do you know Jesus—who reveals the Father, rules the future, and reconciles the fallen? Does He have preeminence in your life?

Dec 21, 2021

How to Handle Your Fear

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Timothy 1:6-8 Fear is an instinct that God has put into us to help protect and preserve us and our loved ones. But the Bible warns us about the damage, destruction, and debilitation of a “spirit of fear.” Adrian Rogers says, “Legitimate fear is like a thunderstorm: lightning flashes, thunder rolls, water pours down. But then it passes and the sun shines again. The spirit of fear is like constant darkness: a drizzle, a fog that you live in.” Paul’s instruction in 2 Timothy shows us how to handle our fear. 2 Timothy 1:6 says, “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” Because fear caused Timothy to forget who he was in Christ, Paul had to remind Timothy of how gifted he was and what God had done in him. When we focus on fear rather than on God, we leave our gifts and abilities unused, buried, and forgotten. And, like Timothy, many of us are afraid to fail, so we never try; we project our failures upon ourselves, so we give up. In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul reveals the deliverance from the spirit of fear, which is a spirit of faith: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” God has endued us with power over fear, through the Holy Spirit of God. If we understand that, we have greater strength than our foes, there is no need to be afraid. And through the Holy Spirit, we have been given everything we need. We are perfectly loved by the God who is in control; truly knowing that eliminates all dread. His perfect love casts out fear (See 1 John 4:18.). Finally, we’ve been given a spirit of sound mind. Many times, we are afraid, not on the basis of reality, but because the deceiver has made us afraid. God has given us a spirit of discernment and wise discretion. With a sound mind, we can look at every fear in the clear light of His Word. Apply it to your life If you have been neutralized by a spirit of fear, remember that you have the power of the Holy Spirit within you. You also have His perfect love lavished upon you. Adrian Rogers says, “The man who can kneel before God can stand before anyone else.”

Dec 17, 2021

Inferiority

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 Many of us struggle to believe God can use us as we are, with what little we have to offer. But the truth is, God does extraordinary things through ordinary people to give glory to Himself. 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 gives good news to those who struggle with feelings of inferiority. “But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty…” (1 Corinthians 1:27). This passage first recognizes God’s simple people. He chooses the nonintellectuals to shame the Ph.D. scholars. He uses the weak to shame the All-Stars; He has chosen the “nobodies” to shame the socialites. Thank God that He can use people with brilliant minds, high status, and extraordinary abilities. But praise God, He can use any average person who dedicates every part of himself to Him; God doesn’t just settle for these people—He goes after them. Second in this passage, we see God’s special power: “But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption— that, as it is written, ‘He who glories, let him glory in the Lord’” (1 Corinthians 1:30-31). Adrian Rogers says, “I learned that God didn't want me to do anything for him; He wanted to do something through me.” In the Book of Judges, the story of Gideon demonstrates God’s use of someone others consider “the bottom of the barrel” to do big things. Likewise, God used young David to take down the giant Goliath; as a result, God received the glory. Finally, we see God’s sovereign purpose for using ordinary people: that no man should glory in himself in God’s presence. We are saved by grace and not by works, so none of us can boast (See Ephesians 2:9.). There are no superstars in Heaven; if we want to be used by God in a way that matters, we only need to be available to Him and obey His will for our lives. Adrian Rogers says, “The highest place in the world is the center of the will of God for you, wherever that is.” Apply it to your life Adrian Rogers says, “The greatest ability is availability.” If you want to be used by God, you can be; are you willing, or at least willing to be made willing?

Dec 15, 2021

Dealing with Stress

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Isaiah 40:28-31 Many of us are emotionally fatigued, physically drained, and spiritually defeated; the reason being that most of us are dealing with some form of stress. Stress is the gap between the demands placed upon us and our ability to meet them. It’s not a sin to be stressed; Jesus Christ, in His humanity, knew what it was like to be weary. If it is not the demands of service that drain us, sin and spiritual warfare will weary us. But we must remember that God promises His insurmountable strength to us. Isaiah 40:28 says, “He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.” Adrian Rogers says, “The Christian life is not just a changed life; it is an exchanged life: we give Him our weakness and He gives us His strength.” Isaiah 40:31 says, “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint.” When we wait on God, we take the initiative in actively pursuing Him. Practically, we must: Long for Him daily Listen to Him in our quiet time Look to Him for our every need Live for Him, dedicating our lives to the service of the Lord. When we wait upon God, we are programmed for His service. In times of adversity, God will help us fly. We will face storms in this life that will surely stress us out. But if we wait on God, like an eagle, we can rise higher, see further, and fly faster. In times of opportunity, God will teach us to run. There’s enough time every day to do everything God wants us to do; sometimes we have to run to get it done. As we accelerate, we trust in God to sustain us, so that we will not grow weary. And in times of necessity, God will aid us to walk through the mundane. Our greatest need is day-by-day faithfulness in the little things, steadily walking in the regular humdrum times of life. Apply it to your life If you believe in the promises of God, you must wait upon Him every day. Long for Him daily, listen for His voice in your time alone with Him, look to Him for every need, and live for Him.

Dec 13, 2021

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Love Worth Finding | Audio Program

Living Above See Level

Riding Out the Storm

Tolerance: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

God is Not Fair

Crossing God&apos;s Deadline

How God Develops Christian Character

The Perils of Postponement

Cardboard Christians

The Backslider

True Riches

Crossing God&apos;s Deadline

Wisdom&apos;s Final Call

Beware the Beast

How to Have a Steadfast Hope in a Shaky World

A Thief in the Night

When Time Runs Out

Magnificent Mother

In the Twinkling of an Eye

Living on the Edge of Eternity

Christ-Like Love

The Care and Maintenance of Your Child

Total Togetherness

Safe Sex

Super Glue Marriage

What If There Had Been No Easter?

Praise Your Way to Victory

The Purpose of His Passion

Liberated Living

It&apos;s All About Jesus

Four Principles of Victory

The Testing of Your Faith

When Parents Pray

Tuning Up Tired Marriages

When the String Snaps

Melody in the Home

Harmony in the Home

Maximum Mom

Father: Leader of the Band

Seven Words that Can Build a Marriage

Cultivating Contentment in the Home

Sacredness of Marriage

Holy Boldness

The Principles of Power

Planning Your Future

The Unfinished Story of Christmas

Jesus Christ: The Son of God and God the Son

Who is Jesus?

How to Handle Your Fear

Inferiority

Dealing with Stress

Crossing God's Deadline

Crossing God's Deadline

Wisdom's Final Call

It's All About Jesus