Love Worth Finding | Audio Program

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The Lost World

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Romans 1:18-31 In Romans 1:18-31, the Apostle Paul reveals that this fallen world is without excuse: “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness…” (Romans 1:18). God is a God of love, but He is also righteous; He is the Chief Judge, holy in His wrath. This passage reveals three reasons why this lost world is to be judged. Man’s Willful Self-Determination “<a href="http://...what" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...what</a> may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them...” (Romans 1:19). God has created two witnesses to testify of His existence: creation and conscience. The inner subjective witness is conscience, and the outward witness is creation—both reveal the truth of His existence and His Word. However, this passage also identifies the haunting human resistance to God’s truth; they didn’t want to know, so they were determined not to know. Man’s Wicked Self-Deception “...because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts...” (Romans 1:21). Adrian Rogers says, “Truth is not given to satisfy your curiosity; truth is given to cause your worship and thankfulness.” “Professing to be wise, they became fools…” (Romans 1:22). What’s worse than refusing to see, is refusing and still believing we see perfectly clear—to believe we are wise in our foolishness. Those Paul is describing, “…changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man…” (Romans 1:23). Their shameful idolatry magnified the worst parts of their flesh. Man’s Woeful Self-Destruction “Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator...” (Romans 1:24-25). They were sexually, socially, and spiritually perverted, turning from God to indulge in their lusts, their hatred, and their spiritual indifference. Ultimately, this passage should act as an urgent warning to us, living in wicked days, to repent of our ways and follow God. Apply it to your life Romans 1:18-31 warns us three times: “God gave them up.” Adrian Rogers reiterates, “The worst thing God could do for you would be to leave you alone in your sin.” If you have any sin in your life, any self-determination, deception, or destruction, repent of your ways and turn to God.

Apr 7, 202137 min

Let's Celebrate Passover

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 5:7-8 The Passover, also called Palm Sunday, is a Jewish tradition that should be inextricably interwoven with our celebration of Easter. 1 Corinthians 5:7 says, “Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us.” Though historically a Jewish tradition, Passover is an event we as Christians have reason to celebrate because it is a prophecy of our redemption through Jesus Christ. In the Book of Exodus, the Passover was a tradition in which the Israelites sacrificed lambs and painted the doors of their homes in the blood of those lambs; the lambs had to be spotless in order to cause the death angel to “pass over” the homes. After the lamb was sacrificed, each family would share it in a feast, celebrating the atonement. Through this, God was teaching His people one of the fundamental truths of His Word: without shedding of blood, there is no remission. As Christians, we celebrate Passover because it speaks of how God provided our redemption. The Old Testament feast was a prophetic portrayal of Jesus, who was yet to come. In Jeremiah 31, God prophesied a new testament, and told of a different Passover lamb to come: His very Son, Jesus Christ. John 1:29 confirms this promise: “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!’” Jesus is the lamb without spot or blemish. (See 1 Peter 1:19.) The last week of His life, Jesus was examined and questioned by His enemies, and they found no fault in Him. He became the sacrificial and saving lamb, as He explains during The Last Supper: “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22:19). When we receive the saving power of salvation in Jesus Christ, we are nourished by Him and called to share the feast with others. Adrian Rogers says, “Salvation is not learning lessons from the life of Christ; salvation is receiving life from the death of Christ.” Apply it to your life As we near the Passover celebration, remember the spotless, sacrificial, saving, shared lamb of God: Jesus Christ. As Adrian Rogers says, “In His blood, we are safe; in His Word, we are sure.”

Mar 31, 202142 min

The Power of Praise

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Chronicles 20:1-30 Praise is a powerful thing, in times of joy and in times of help, but especially in times of trouble. A story from 2 Chronicles 20:1-30 shows us the power of praise when facing opposition. King Jehoshaphat was a God-fearing King, facing opposition from Ammon, Moab, and Seir. Likewise, we have three mighty kings that come against us on a regular basis – sin, sorrow, and death. Every Christian will meet these, and sometimes, the opposition will be fierce. In the case of King Jehoshaphat, powerful foes caused the king to focus on God through fasting. Fasting does not earn God’s blessings (which are given solely through God’s grace), but it does sharpen our focus on God. As a result, the nation came together in purposeful fellowship: “So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord, and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord” (v. 4). When we seek God together, He shows up and reveals His true nature. This passage shows us that God is: 1. Sovereign: There is no problem too big for Him. 2. Steadfast: God has worked miracles in the past, and He will never run out of them. 3. Sympathetic: If we cry out to God, He will hear and He will help. He is touched with the feeling of our infirmity. 4. Seeing: God knows our situations, our enemies, and our danger. There’s nothing that escapes His notice. 5. Saving: “O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You” (v. 12). The people of Judah learned that the battle was never theirs to win, but God’s; their part was to join the fight with praise. Adrian Rogers says, “Praise infuses the energy of God and it confuses the enemy of God. Praise fractures the unity of the enemy and formulates the unity of the believer.” As a result of the praise and obedience of the people, there was a provided fortune and peaceful future. Proverbs 16:7 says, “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” Apply it to your life Have you learned to praise God in your problems? Pray, and consider fasting, as you ask God for His guidance. Remember: the battle is the Lord’s; your part is to praise.

Mar 15, 202134 min

Family Faithfulness

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 19:1-6 Adrian Rogers says, “A home is the sweetest place on earth, the nearest place to Heaven. It’s the only part of the Garden of Eden that we have left.” Matthew 19 discusses the importance of family faithfulness; first, by recognizing that marriage is made by Heaven. And He answered and said to them, "Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning 'made them male and female,' and said, ‘For this reason, a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’?" (v. 4-5). Marriage is the supreme commitment, overruling every other commitment we could ever make. The priority of marriage is to build a home, and we cannot build a home without God’s guidance. We raise children with the intention of them leaving home to build homes of their own. Marriage is also permanent, and its purpose is to be one flesh, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Adrian Rogers says, “Marriage is a romance in which both the hero and the heroine die in the first chapter, and a new person comes into being: one flesh.” But marriage can be marred by Hell; there is nothing wrong with romantic love, but we are deceived if we believe that is enough to sustain a marriage. We are commanded in Scripture to love our spouses unconditionally, as God has loved His church. There is no fear in perfect love, only peace, security, and joy. We must be careful not to allow guilt to fester in our marriages; guilt turns to anger, and anger into bitterness. When we experience trials, reconciliation and forgiveness are called for in order to put the family back together. If we seek restoration, we’ll find that the relationship can potentially be even stronger than before it was broken. Finally, marriage is always marked by hope. No matter our circumstances, there is always hope because the grace of God covers all of our sins. God does not hold grudges; His forgiveness is always available for those who seek to honor Him in their relationships. Apply it to your life A godly home is the greatest testimony we have in this world. If you are married, make certain that Christ is the head of your home and continue to feed your love day by day.

Feb 25, 202133 min

Family Future

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Deuteronomy 5:29 The family was the first institution formed by God, created to meet the deepest physical, social, and spiritual needs of mankind. It is in the home that a child should learn who he is, what he can do, and what is expected of him. In the midst of this moral free fall, it is time we ask ourselves: what is the future of the family? Adrian Rogers says, “If there is no future for our families, there is no future for this nation.” Deuteronomy 5:29 says, “Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments, that it might be well with them and with their children forever!” Our homes are the universities of life. In these homes, we must train our children to abide by God’s law so that we can preserve the family’s future. God gave the Ten Commandments to the family. God’s priority plan for us is to pass our faith from parent to child. Parents are the professors of their homes. Deuteronomy 6:7 says, “You shall teach them diligently to your children...” Though we can’t control our children, we can guide and teach them in the way they should go. Our primary goal as parents should be that we love God with sincere, selfless, and strong love so that we can set an example for our children to love Him, too. The Ten Commandments are the curriculum. These commandments are the liberating laws of life and the tracks upon which our families run. We are to set boundaries for our kids around the parameter of God’s law. Our children are our students. It is not the church’s responsibility to raise our children in faith, it is ours. “You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” (Deuteronomy 6:8-9). Finally, life is the laboratory. Life is where these things are taught. We must teach our children convictionally, consistently, creatively, conversationally, and conspicuously. Apply it to your life Our homes are where our children learn everything they need to know about life. Have you established your home as a university, yourself as a professor, and God’s law as the curriculum? Are your children your students, viewing life as the laboratory?

Feb 23, 202132 min

Who is Jesus? The God-Man

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Philippians 2:5-11 Jesus’s ministry lasted only for three years, and yet His Word and His influence change lives today. Philippians 2:5-11 reveals exactly who Jesus, the God-Man, is. --Supernatural: “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who… made himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men...” (v.5, 7) Jesus was made in the likeness of men, but He was not conceived like any other child. He was born of a virgin, exempt from the curse of man, for God’s Holy blood flowed through His veins. --Sinless: Though tempted at all points like us, Jesus remained completely sinless. --Sovereign: “<a href="http://...being" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...being</a> in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God…” (v. 6) Jesus is the Son of God; He is also God the Son. --Sacrificial: “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient.” (v. 8) Adrian Rogers says, “Jesus’s death was not incidental or accidental. He did not die as a victim or a martyr. He died in obedience to the Father, that you and I might be saved by His death on the cross.” --Surviving: C.S. Lewis said, “He has forced open a door that had been locked since the death of the first man. He has met, fought, and beaten back the king of death. Everything is different because He has done so.” --Soon-Coming: "Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (v. 9-11) Jesus will return; and when He does, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that He is Lord. --Saving: Adrian Rogers says, “Jesus is not a good way to Heaven or the best way to Heaven. Jesus is the only way to Heaven.” Apply it to your life Jesus is what the world needs today. Tell someone about the Son of God who left Heaven, came to this Earth, suffered, bled, and died, and walked out of that grave a living, risen Savior.

Dec 29, 202032 min

The Stars and Scars of Christmas

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: John 20:24-29 In the Nativity story, the star pointed the wise men to the baby Jesus. But we cannot have the stars of Christmas without the scars of Christmas. We must remember: Jesus was born to die for our sins. We worship a God with scars; they are not incidental, but so fundamental that Jesus carried those scars with Him to Heaven. There are three things these scars tell us about God in human flesh. First, the scars tell us that as a man, Jesus suffered. In John 20:27, Jesus invited his doubting disciple, Thomas, to examine His scars, which He received when He was crucified. These scars testify that He suffered for us, and still suffers with us, whether in grief, in persecution, or when the church is unfaithful. The scars also show us that Jesus sympathizes; they remind us that God has been with us, He has felt what we feel and He understands our pain. Hebrews 4:15 says, “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." Pain has a protecting purpose; it warns us to pivot away from the things that harm us. Pain also has a unifying purpose. As the physical human body comes to the aid of a suffering member, pain draws people together. Finally, these scars reveal to us that Jesus saves. He did not have to suffer. Yet, He moved into our suffering, took it on Himself, so that we could be saved from our sins. Isaiah 53:5 says, "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." Adrian Rogers says, “Jesus came to this earth that we might go to heaven. Jesus became the Son of man that we might become the sons and the daughters of God. Jesus died that we might live.” Apply it to your life Today, think not only of the stars but the scars of Christmas. Jesus had some scars, and if we follow Him, so will we. Let your pain point people to the Gospel; testify of how God healed you. And if you are suffering today, bring your wounds to Jesus; use your scars for His glory.

Dec 25, 202036 min

Three Miracle Births

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: John 3:1-7 Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3). In John 3, Jesus explains three miracle births that tell the story of our salvation. First, this passage recognizes the deficiency of our natural birth. Despite any status or ranking that we may have, we have been born into this sinful world and are bound to a sinful nature. Second, Jesus reveals the efficiency of the Virgin Birth. John 3:16-17 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” Jesus is the only way we can know God and be saved. By being born of a virgin, He was omitted from the curse of the Fall (Genesis 3), and remained sinless. But He had to be a man to pay the sin debt, for, without bloodshed, there is no remission of sin. Therefore, He had to be the God-man. Adrian Rogers says, “He came as He did, to be what He was, to do what He did, that we might be what we are, sons and daughters of God. He was born of a virgin that we might be born again.” Finally, John 3 helps us understand the sufficiency of the new birth. Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God" (John 3:5). The Word of God and the Holy Spirit are the “parents” of our new birth. As a result, our new character mimics that of our spiritual parents. We love the Lord Jesus Christ and have the witness of the Spirit. We have a desire for holiness, and to share Jesus with others. Just like there is a finality in our natural birth, once we are saved by the new birth, we are always saved; we receive a fresh start and begin to grow with the certainty of our miraculous rebirth. Apply it to your life Do you have the characteristics of someone reborn? Do you love Jesus and share Him with others? Do you desire holiness and have the witness of the Spirit?

Dec 23, 202041 min

The Blood Covenant

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Samuel 18:3 A blood covenant is a biblical principle that permanently unites two people together in marriage, business, or friendship. It is made when the blood of one individual mingles with the blood of another, and the two parties adopt a lovingkindness toward each other, meaning their love surpasses all differences. Jonathan and David’s blood covenant in 1 Samuel 18-19 is a picture of the blood covenant God made with us, through Jesus. After David came into power, the descendants of the former king, Saul, were scared that David would kill them, especially Saul’s grandson, Mephibosheth. But because of the covenant David made with Mephibosheth’s father, Jonathan, Mephibosheth was shown lovingkindness. 2 Samuel 9:7 says, “And David said to him, ‘Do not fear, for I will surely show you kindness for Jonathan your father's sake, and will restore to you all the land of Saul your grandfather; and you shall eat bread at my table continually.'" Mephibosheth then ratified the covenant first made by his father. King David, who was once Mephibosheth’s enemy, became his friend. Once he ratified the covenant, a transformation took place. Mephibosheth—deformed, dethroned, deceived, and good as dead—was now a son of the King. In the same way, when we change our minds, we take a new King into our lives: Jesus Christ. The blood covenant is not just a biblical principle, it is the subject of the Bible; it is the secret of blessing and the source of boldness. Jesus entered into a blood covenant with God the Father on our behalf. On the cross, the blood of God and the blood of man mingled. As a result, no longer do we live under the tyranny of our emotions, bound to our feelings. We live by the steadfast promise and the saving power of the blood covenant. Adrian Rogers says, “Because of the blood covenant, the meek shall inherit the earth. We’re heirs of God and joint-heirs with the Lord Jesus Christ.” Thank God that God sought us, just as David sought Mephibosheth. We are in the King’s family; whether we feel it or not, our “sonship” is a matter of the blood covenant. Apply it to your life Adrian Rogers says, “Jesus came to Earth to make a blood covenant so that we might enjoy what we have with our Lord. Share the wealth of His possessions. And rest in the shadow of His protection.”

Dec 21, 202038 min

The Secret of Satisfaction (1659)

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 5:6 The word “blessed” means to be satisfied. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus revealed the secret of satisfaction. Matthew 5:6 says, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” Many of us think of righteousness as something to do. But in the Bible, righteousness is wrapped up in a person, and His name is Jesus. When we hunger and thirst after righteousness, we are actually hungering and thirsting after Jesus Christ. Jesus is Our Spiritual Sustenance In the material realm, food and water are necessities, not luxuries; if we don’t eat or drink, we will die. And so it is in the spiritual realm: Jesus Christ is not some luxury; He is a necessity. Without Him, our spirits will die. We should desire Jesus preeminently, above all other things. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus tells us, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Jesus will not work in second place. A lack of joy, peace, or fulfillment is a symptom of unrighteousness. When we hunger and thirst after Jesus, we are blessed, but it is crucial to remember that the blessings are just a by-product. Jesus is the cure; not the joy, peace, and fulfillment that comes with Him. Adrian Rogers says, “You’ll never go beyond Jesus: you may only go deeper and deeper into Jesus.” We should seek Jesus passionately—with a huge appetite. A hungry man is interested in one thing: food. If he is hungry enough, he will go anywhere, do almost anything, and pay any price. Likewise, our quest for Jesus Christ should be marked by deliberation, determination, and desperation. Jesus Satisfies the Strongest Appetite Finally, we should enjoy Jesus perpetually. Adrian Rogers says, “I don’t know how much of God you have, but you have all you want. Shallow thirst equals shallow satisfaction; small hunger equals small satisfaction.” Contrary to popular belief, we don’t lose the good things of life when we come to Jesus. In fact, we enjoy things more in the context of righteousness. In Jesus, we are completely, continually, and certainly satisfied. Apply it to your life A person who is hungry and thirsty for righteousness is on a deliberate, determined, desperate quest for Jesus Christ. Do you seek Jesus Christ as a starving man would seek food?

Dec 9, 202037 min

The Mighty Meek

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 5:5 Matthew 5:5 says, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus revealed that it is not the mighty men who are blessed--it is the mighty meek. Meekness is not weakness. Jesus was meek, yet He was a strong man. To be meek means to be yielded, to have a compliant spirit. Meekness is strength under control. When we were created, God put certain drives, instincts, and ambitions into our very natures. These are not evil in themselves, but they must yield to the Holy Spirit so that we may bring Him glory and honor. While some believe releasing or restraining our strength will lead to control, true meekness comes after we see ourselves as poor in spirit. Once we are broken over our condition, we can develop strength under control. Step One: Submit to the Son of God. Matthew 11:28-30 says: Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle [meek] and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Jesus offers our wild spirits rest and invites us to submit to His lordship and learn true strength from Him. Step Two: Receive the Word of God. We cannot snatch pieces of the Bible to feed our pride or our opinions. Adrian Rogers says, “The Bible is not meant to be interesting; it’s meant to be disturbing.” We must welcome the Word into our lives with humility, reaching out to Jesus Christ with both hands, letting Scripture be our bridle and bit. Step Three: Be Filled with the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit of God produces meekness in us; we simply bear the fruit of it. When we are meek, we will receive our inheritance. This dynamic is explained in 2 Corinthians 6:10, which says, “<a href="http://...as" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...as</a> sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” Apply it to your life Have you yielded to the Holy Spirit and developed a meek spirit? Take these steps today: submit to God, receive His Word, and be filled with His Spirit.

Dec 7, 202035 min

Turning Tears into Telescopes

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 5:4 The world tells us that a life without tears, sorrow, and heartache is a blessed life; but this is not true. In fact, in Matthew 5:4, Jesus says, "Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted." We do all we can to avoid pain. We call on psychologists, self-help coaches, and entertainment to change our conditions. In reality, condition does not dictate character. Jesus, Himself, was a Man of sorrows. He teaches us how to turn our tears into telescopes. He teaches us to bring our sorrows and heartaches into focus in such a way that we can see beyond the present and into the future. Our tears today can become telescopes to make the future all the brighter and all the more meaningful. Turning tears into telescopes is a two-step process. We must identify the convicting guilt that causes us to mourn, and we must recognize the grace that comforts us. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gives insight into the deceptive power of sin. Man looks on the outward appearance and sees outward sin. But God looks on the heart and at our inner intentions that led to our sin. Our hearts are “deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.” (Jeremiah 17:9) Our hearts are subject to sin’s defilement, which perverts the beautiful things we see and touch. If we are truly convicted by our guilt, it should lead to consuming grief and sorrow. There are two kinds of sorrow: godly and worldly. Godly sorrow leads us to repentance, but the sorrow of the world leaves us with remorse. Adrian Rogers explains, “Remorse without repentance can be a dangerous thing. A person filled with remorse is one who loves his sin and hates himself at the same time. A person who has repented is a person who hates his sin because he loves his Savior. Remorse looks at the sin and its consequences. Repentance looks beyond the sin to Calvary.” Looking at Calvary, we recognize the grace that comforts us. Mourning is the only way to know the comfort of our dear Lord. The word comfort is not a word filled with sympathy. The word “comfort” translates to mean with strength. When we receive God’s comforting grace, we are receiving His Spirit, which is our strength and our advocate. Apply it to your life Have you experienced guilt for your sins? Have you experienced the consuming grief of an unrepentant life? Have you experienced the comfort of God’s grace?

Dec 3, 202036 min

Integrity: Don't Leave Home Without It

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Exodus 20:15 Exodus 20:15 reveals the eighth commandment: "You shall not steal." It seems that we have forgotten the basic rules of honesty. Any time we take anything that belongs to someone else or keep from someone the thing that we owe to them, we are guilty of stealing. There are three grand principles found in Ephesians 4:28, that we are to etch into the consciousness of our children: Integrity: "Let him who stole steal no longer..." Stealing isn’t just burglary or embezzlement; it can also mean fraud. Lying is a form of stealing; half-hearted work is stealing. Gambling is another form of thievery; it is an attempt to get what belongs to someone else without giving him anything for it. We belong to God, whether we acknowledge it or not. When we live for ourselves and not for God, we are robbing God of what is His. When we fail to tithe to the church, we are stealing from God, as well. Adrian Rogers explains, “It pays to serve Jesus; it pays every step of the way. You have defrauded yourself: In seeking to get, you’re the one who loses.” Industry: "<a href="http://...but" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...but</a> rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good..." Work is not a curse; it is a gift from God, and absolutely imperative in our world. When someone receives something without working for it, someone else has to work for it without receiving it. We must begin instilling a good work ethic into our children early, so they grow up to become hard workers. Generosity: "<a href="http://...that" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...that</a> he may have something to give him who has need." The opposite of stealing is giving. Just as we teach our children the importance of hard work, we must teach them the importance of charity. As Christians, we labor to meet our needs and give to others. It’s a sin to expect the government to care for our loved ones when we, ourselves, ought to do it. Adrian Rogers says, “Misery comes from mirrors. Joy comes from windows when we’re beginning to pour out and give to others.” Apply it to your life Would you like to teach your children the importance of working with honesty, vigor, and the expectation to give it away? Adrian Rogers emphasizes this powerful advice from John Wesley: “Make all you can, save all you can, and give all you can.”

Nov 23, 202032 min

A Place Called Heaven

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: John 14:1-3 Here on earth, we’re limited in our knowledge about Heaven. But what the Bible does reveal about a place called Heaven leaves us in breathless wonder. Heaven is a real place. Heaven is not a condition or state of mind; it is somewhere on God’s map, and one day we will be there in a resurrected body. The saved go to Heaven immediately upon death. 2 Corinthians 5:6-8 says, “So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” We will know our loved ones in Heaven, face-to-face, heart-to-heart. In Matthew 8:11, Jesus claims Heaven will feel like a great family reunion. The ones we’ve read about in the Bible and the ones who served God before us will feel like family, as well. There will be joyful activity in Heaven. Heaven will not be boring; quite the contrary. Our work in Heaven will be joyful and thrilling, blessed, and beloved. Heaven is a place of absolute perfection. There will be no more tears, sighing, crying, or pain. Heaven is the presence of all that is good and the absence of all that is bad. Adrian Rogers tells us, “Heaven is all that the loving heart of God would desire. Heaven is all that the incredible mind of God can conceive. And Heaven is all the Almighty Hand of God can create.” Jesus is the crowning glory of Heaven. Jesus said, "I go and prepare a place for <a href="http://you...that" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">you...that</a> where I am, there you may be also" (John 14:3). The thrill of Heaven is not that we live there... It is that we will live there with Jesus. Only the redeemed will go to Heaven. We can’t trust in honesty, charity, or even religion, itself. We can only trust in Jesus, who died for us and rose again, so that we may see a place called Heaven for ourselves. Apply it to your life Adrian Rogers says, “You have to be Heaven-born to be Heaven-bound.” Knowing the only way to the place called Heaven is through salvation in Jesus Christ, are you sure that you are saved? Does your family trust in Jesus Christ?

Nov 12, 202032 min

What Does the Word of God Say About Government?

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 14:34 Proverbs 14:34 says, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." When it comes to politics, some believers have dropped out: either discouraged by the worldliness or intimidated by the great debate between church and state. Others, in their misguided zeal, have turned their churches into precincts and used our government to wage holy war against the nonbelievers. At this crucial time in our nation, we need to confess our sins, turn from our wicked ways, and understand what the Word of God says about government. The Bible teaches us that God has ordained human government. Daniel 2:21 says, “And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings...” Whether they be wicked or righteous, our government leaders are given authority by God, alone. By and large, nations receive the kind of government they deserve. The Word of God also states that government serves two basic purposes: to restrain evil and to encourage good. Though it is impossible to legislate morality, the government is an instrument of God to legislate against immorality. The Word of God teaches the responsibilities of the church to the government, and vice versa. Respectfully, we do not want the government infringing upon our religious affairs. Likewise, as Christian citizens, we have a civic duty to pray for our government leaders, pay our taxes, and express patriotism. When the government does what is right, we should let them know. We are also instructed to speak up when the government does wrong. We must use our votes to speak up for what is godly and righteous; when we don’t participate, we disobey the Lord. Finally, the Bible claims there will come a time when we may have to disobey our government. In Acts, the apostles were told not to preach the Gospel, but they did anyway. In the Book of Daniel, Daniel was commanded by the government not to pray, but he did anyway. As Jesus instructed us in Matthew 22:21, render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, but not the things that are God’s. Adrian Rogers says, “The only authority the government has is that which is granted ultimately by Almighty God; we ought to obey God rather than man.” Apply it to your life It’s not too late for America; one by one, we must get right with God; sing it, pray it and mean it: God bless America.

Nov 4, 202021 min

It's Prayer Time in America

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Chronicles 7:14 It’s prayer time in America; this nation is ripe for God’s judgment, and in desperate need of His mercy. We are a proud nation, wallowing in materialism and rotting in sin, lost in the search for earthly pleasures and false freedoms. But there is hope! 2 Chronicles 7:14 is an ancient promise God made to Israel in times of calamity. It says, “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." This passage recognizes the people God has: “If My people who are called by My name…” As God’s people, we must understand and accept that if America falls and fails, it will be our fault. Adrian Rogers says, “It is not our duty to persuade God to send revival; we must permit Him to do so.” This passage also addresses the pride God hates: “<a href="http://...will" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...will</a> humble themselves, and pray….” Pride is the root of all kinds of evil. This is why we are to humble ourselves before God. James 4:6 says, “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: ‘God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.’” This passage reveals the prayer God hears: “<a href="http://...and" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...and</a> seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways…” God is not just our only hope… He is our biggest threat; and to pray without repentance angers Him. Repentance is more than a conviction of sin. It’s more than a confession or contrition for sin. Repentance is a heart change. We must repent of our wicked ways and seek the face of God. Finally, this passage reminds us of the promise God honors: “<a href="http://...then" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...then</a> I will hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." God would rather pardon than judge. He is angry at our sins, but He is full of compassion. If we humbly ask for forgiveness and repent of our sins, He is faithful to forgive. Apply it to your life If there was ever a time that we need to repent, this is it. Adrian Rogers says, “When the church begins to do what we ought to do, then we’ll begin to deal with all of these other problems. Stop pointing fingers. Bow the knee before God; get right with God.”

Oct 28, 2020

The Gospel Truth

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 15 The human condition is marked by a single, inherent problem of sin. Oftentimes, we try to explain away or excuse sin, but until we learn to deal with it, we will never know forgiveness. The Gospel Truth only becomes good news when we recognize the bad news, which is our own sin. In this message, we learn there are three things to know about the good news of the Gospel. The Source The reason for the Gospel is sin. We are all sinners. Our sin, whether confessed or ignored, comes with a penalty, pollution, and power over us. But because of the death of Jesus Christ, the penalty of our sin was paid in full. Jesus’ final words were, “It is finished” (John 19:30). By His death, we have been pardoned. Because of the burial of Jesus, the pollution of our sin can be purged. When we get saved, Jesus makes our hearts clean. The pollution of sin is put in the grave of God’s forgetfulness. And because of Christ’s resurrection, we have received Christ’s power over sin. It was sin that crucified Jesus and nailed Him to the cross. When Jesus rose from the grave, He demolished the power of sin. The Force The Gospel is a saving force. There is no other way to be saved but through Jesus. Adrian Rogers says, “If it’s new, it’s not true. There is only one Gospel, no other Gospel. It is gloriously simple, it is simply glorious.” It is also a sanctifying force. It is present tense. We are being made more and more like Jesus every day. We have been saved from the penalty of sin, and are being saved from the power of sin. And it is a stabilizing force. When we get saved, we don’t keep our salvation… rather, it keeps us. The Course The course of the Gospel takes its toll on the whole world. It extends to every person, flows to every place, and covers every problem. The Gospel is the only answer to sin, sorrow, and death. This is the good news worth sharing. Apply it to your life Have you acknowledged the bad news of sin, that you might know the good news of the Gospel?

Oct 27, 2020

An Unchanging Message to a Changing World

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Kings 22:1-14 1 Kings 22 tells the story of a prophet with an unchanging message to a changing world. After receiving counsel from 400 pandering prophets, King Ahab and Jehoshaphat hear from Micaiah, a true prophet of God. And rather than saying what they wanted to hear, Micaiah proclaims, “<a href="http://...As" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...As</a> the Lord lives, whatever the Lord says to me, that I will speak” (v. 14). There are five things we can learn from Micaiah’s bold response. 1. It is better to be divided by truth than to be united in error. Devoted believer Jehoshaphat had made an unholy, political alliance with the wicked King Ahab. Unity is a wonderful thing; the Church is called to do everything we can to preserve unity. But it must only be unity in Christ, and Christ alone. 2. It is better to speak the truth that hurts and then heals than to tell a lie that comforts and then kills. The 400 prophets before Micaiah lied to please the king, but Micaiah refused to be bought or intimidated. Adrian Rogers says, “Rough truth is better than polished falsehood.” 3. It is better to be hated for telling the truth than to be loved for telling a lie. Sometimes, we assume those who tell us the truth are our enemies. King Ahab hated Micaiah; prophets and disciples all throughout Scripture faced persecution, including Jesus Himself. People of God will not be loved by this world. 4. It is better to stand alone with the truth than to be wrong with a multitude. The King’s Council tried to soften Micaiah, begging him to agree with the other prophets. But he stood by his conviction from God. The majority is almost always wrong; men and women of God have always stood alone. 5. It is better to ultimately succeed with the truth than to temporarily succeed with a lie. Eventually, Ahab’s rejection of the truth cost him his life. Micaiah’s dedication to the truth brought him to power. This world is in desperate need of the truth; we cannot be intimidated by momentary threats of failure. The truth of Jesus Christ will outlast every lie this world could tell. Apply it to your life Are you sharing the unchanging message of the Gospel in this changing world? Remember the words of Micaiah: “As the Lord lives, whatever the Lord says to me, that I will speak."

Oct 23, 2020

The Time of Your Life

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Ephesians 5:14 If we’re not careful, we may spend the prime time of our lives chasing the wrong goals. This is why we have to learn how to use and maximize our time for God’s glory. Ephesians 5:14-16 says, “Therefore He says: 'Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.' See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” We must begin to see time as an incredible opportunity, so we may know how to live wisely in evil days. Time is a provided and present opportunity; it is a gift from God that we dare not let pass by. Adrian Rogers says, “There are two days that can steal the joy from today: one is yesterday and the other is tomorrow.” In Philippians 3:13-14, the Apostle Paul said, "<a href="http://...but" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...but</a> one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” We must forget the guilt, glory, grief, and grudges of the past. Time is a precious opportunity; the art of living is spending time wisely. Psalm 90:12 says, “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” We can organize our days according to four principles: -Prayer: it is the key that unlocks the door of the morning. Begin every day with prayer. -Priority: understanding the difference between urgent and important, we must prioritize accordingly. -Promptness: procrastination is a sin. We must cultivate the habit of instant obedience. -Power: this means we do God’s will in the power of the Holy Spirit. Finally, time is a passing opportunity. Adrian Rogers says, “Time is such a strange commodity; all you can do is use it or lose it.” We will give an account for every passing day. Knowing this, we must cut ourselves loose from yesterday’s heartaches and failures and strain toward what’s ahead. Apply it to your life What do you intend to do with your day? Will you be a good steward of the time God has given you?

Oct 19, 2020

The Leadership Crisis in America

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 29:2 God has ordained our government and commanded us to get involved in the decisions made for the leadership of our country. Adrian Rogers says, “Leadership is really stewardship because the leader acts for God.” Jesus taught us to participate in government when He said "We are to render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s. We’re to render to God the things that are God’s. (Matthew 22:21) There are four basic principles to consider when responding to the leadership crisis in America. Think first about the character that God requires in leadership. God blesses good character over ability. When you go to vote, consider the following qualities that God requires: Godliness: Nobody is fit for leadership who is ungodly or unrighteous. Wisdom: Does your candidate have the wisdom that can only be given by God? Honesty: Proverbs 20:28 says, “Mercy and truth preserve the king.” Discernment: Someone who is able to distinguish between good and bad. Sexual Morality: If a man has no moral standard of his own, he can’t set a moral standard for the nation. Sober: Look for a leader who is not only sober-minded but simply sober. Protective: A good leader protects the weak and defends those who cannot defend themselves. Secondly, remember the choice that God respects. God allows us to choose against His will, and that is the reason we receive the poor leadership we deserve. Adrian Rogers says, “Wicked rulers are God’s reward for wicked people.” Third, see the consequences that God reveals. It is deeply disturbing to consider that America doesn’t know the trouble she’s in on the path she’s currently walking. Proverbs 29:2 says, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” But ultimately, remember the control that God reserves. Even if wicked men make wicked choices for wicked rulers, God has forsaken control. God is still the King of kings. Again, Adrian Rogers says, “If we do not allow God to rule in America, God will still overrule.” Apply it to your life What should we do about the leadership crisis in America? Pray for revival. Prepare for suffering. Prepare for His arrival. Let the voting polls be a reminder: Jesus is coming…soon!.

Oct 14, 2020

The Discipline of Darkness

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Isaiah 50:10-11 Sometimes, darkness falls upon even the most devout Christians. What can we do when the lights go out? What is the discipline of darkness? Isaiah 50:10 says, “Who among you fears the Lord? Who obeys the voice of His Servant? Who walks in darkness and has no light? Let him trust in the name of the Lord and rely upon his God.” First, those of greatest devotion may know the deepest darkness. There is a distorted idea that the Christian life is all joy and light. But Isaiah 50 speaks to those who revere God and respect His authority, yet face deep perplexity and anguish. Second, faith that is born in the light is developed in the dark. In order to develop our faith in the darkness, we must look and lean on the Lord. Adrian Rogers says, “It is better to be in a valley, leaning on God, than on a peak without Him.” Third, some things are seen in the dark that cannot be seen in the light. Adrian Rogers says, “You could not see the stars were it not for the darkness.” Fourth, it is better to lean on God in the darkness than stand alone in man-made light. One of the great dangers of darkness is the temptation to light our own fires. But if the darkness has been ordained of God, we cannot undo what God has done. Man-made fire is deceptive; we see this in the stories of Abraham, Moses, and Simon Peter. When these men of God took matters into their own hands, it resulted in bitter weeping and “lying down in sorrow.” Finally, if our sun has set, we must remember it will rise again. Isaiah 50:4 says, “The Lord God has given Me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him who is weary. He awakens Me morning by morning, He awakens My ear to hear as the learned." When we get to a better day, we will be equipped to teach the greatest treasure of the darkness: that in our deepest sorrow, our Heavenly Father’s eyes are upon us. Apply it to your life If you’re in darkness right now, don’t light your own fire; look and lean on God. Remember these words from Adrian Rogers: “God will turn every tear to a pearl, every hurt to a hallelujah, every Calvary to an Easter; your morning will come.”

Oct 12, 2020

A Formula for Fellowship

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 John 1:3-10 As Christians, we can slip and fall into sin just like anyone else. What happens to our fellowship with God when we sin? 1 John 1:5-7 says: "This is the message which we have heard from Him, and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin." The formula for fellowship is a cleansed life. Oftentimes, we would rather see our sins as mistakes that need to be fixed. In reality, we are sinners in need of forgiveness. Adrian Rogers says, “The problem with today's society is we all have a burden of guilt without a sense of sin.” If we are truly saved, our sin can no longer condemn us; but it can interrupt fellowship with God. Our “sonship” is fixed for eternity, but our fellowship is determined as to whether or not we obey our Father’s instructions. If we want to stay in fellowship with God, we must first expose our sins to the light. Hiding our sins is very dangerous; if we want to know if we have any unconfessed sin in our hearts, we have to shed light on our imperfections. We must be bold to ask the Holy Spirit to convict us legitimately, specifically, and redemptively. Second, our sin must be expressed to the Lord. A confession of sin is not just an admission; it is an agreement with God about it. To confess that sin means to name it and nail it; to agree with God immediately, specifically, and confidently. 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Because Jesus Christ died for our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us. If we only confess, we can be totally cleansed from all unrighteousness, and our fellowship with God can be restored. Apply it to your life Do you have any unconfessed sin in your life? Bring it to the light and express it to the Lord.

Oct 8, 2020

A Nation in Crisis

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Isaiah 59:1-4 Isaiah 59:1-2 says, “Behold the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; Nor is His ear heavy, that it cannot hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear.” Our beloved America is a nation in a crisis. The prophet, Isaiah, boldly pointed out the sins of his day; upon a closer look, we can see distinct parallels to the sins of our day. -Bloody hands: “For your hands are defiled with blood and your fingers with iniquity...” (v. 3) -Lying lips: “Your lips have spoken lies, your tongue has muttered perversity....” (v. 3) -Wicked hearts: “No one calls for justice, nor does any plead for truth. They trust in empty words and speak lies; They conceive evil and bring forth iniquity.” (v. 4) How did Isaiah’s people come to a place where God would not hear their prayers? What brought about bloody hands, lying lips, and wicked hearts? First, the people had been feeding on a diet of deception. Much like the day of Isaiah, poisonous philosophies are being swallowed down by our next generation. Second, the people were caught in a web of wickedness. Satan has a web of evil, and its most terrifying quality is that it is difficult to see. Our youth don’t understand that porn, alcohol, sexual immorality holds them captive by the enemy. Third, the people were trashing the truth. Isaiah 59:14-15 says, “Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands afar off; For truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter. So truth fails, and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey. Then the Lord saw it, and it displeased him that there was no justice.” In this illustration, truth lies prostrate on the ground. In America, truth has been knocked down by doctors of philosophy, dishonest politicians, and false preachers. Adrian Rogers says, “The job in America today is to put truth back on her feet.” Apply it to your life Proverbs 23:23, “Buy the truth and do not sell it.” Pastor Rogers tells us, “Truth is a prize to possess. There is a price to pay, you must buy the truth. You must study it, pour over it, learn it, live it, know it. And you must preserve the truth.”

Oct 7, 2020

Detours, Dead Ends, and Dry Holes

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Exodus 13:17-18 Exodus 13:18 says, “But God led the people about, through the way of the wilderness of the Red sea: and the children of Israel went up harnessed out of the land of Egypt.” As God leads us through life, we may find ourselves on back roads, dead-end alleys, or in dry places. What should we do when we face detours, dead ends, and dry holes? First, remember the discipline of detours. This passage clarifies God led His people on a divine detour. Further hardship would have met the Israelites if they had gone the shortest route. Sometimes, we aren’t ready for the blessings God has in store for us. If we are circling the wilderness, or feel “out” of the will of God, Adrian Rogers advises: “The important thing is not that you know; the important thing is that God knows and that you follow Him.” This passage also identifies the dilemma of dead ends. For the Israelites, the road ended at the vast Red Sea, with Pharaoh’s army closing in on them. They were between the sword and the sea; there was no way out. But God knew exactly what He was doing. God put them in this dead end to use their seemingly impossible circumstance to bring judgment on Pharaoh. When we come up against dead ends, we can remember: our place of desperation is an opportunity of dependency upon Him. There are four things to do when we come to a dead end: fear not, stand still, watch God work before you, and then go forward. Finally, this passage recognizes the disappointment of dry holes; this is the test of our faithfulness. The Israelites failed this test miserably. Merely three days after God miraculously parted the Red Sea, they murmured in doubt, which is an aggressive sin. There was no need for them to murmur, for their provision was in front of them. God already knew what He was going to do. God knows the way through the wilderness, all we have to do is follow. Apply it to your life Are you following God, yet facing a detour, a dead end, or a dry hole? Know that God hasn't forsaken you; He is proving you. Don't complain or murmur; right over the hill, God’s oasis is waiting. You may not see it, but God can see it.

Oct 5, 2020

The New World Order

In Acts 10, the Gospel was made available to Gentiles for the first time. Up until Acts 15, many in the church believed Christianity was exclusively for the Jews. Concerned, they met in Jerusalem to discuss God’s plan for the Jews. Acts 15:18 reads, “Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world.” God has a plan for this world, the church, for the Jew and the Gentile. And as we hear rumors of a new world order in these last days, we know the reasons why the world is out of sorts to begin with. The church is out of her rightful place. The church, which is the bride of Christ, belongs with the groom. Through the Holy Spirit, He is with us, but we are not by His side. Ephesians 1:13-14 explains that the Holy Spirit is “the earnest of our inheritance,” meaning He is a token of God’s love to His Bride while we wait to join His side. Second, there will never be world order until Israel is restored and there is peace in Jerusalem. God is not finished with the Jewish nation; they are still the chosen people. God gave the land of Israel to Abraham’s descendants in an everlasting covenant, yet, the Jews have been scattered across the earth. As God prophesied Israel's disobedience, dispersion, and disgrace, He also prophesied their resolve and return. Third, Satan is out of place, because the criminal belongs in prison. There will never be order as long as Satan’s spirit is working. The world stumbles in darkness orchestrated by Him. But Satan will not always have the run of this world. There’s coming a time when he will be cast into the prison of his own making: hell. Finally, there will be no world order until the King is on the throne. Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords; soon, His Will will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Adrian Rogers says, “I cannot wait for the time our Lord comes and we have a new world order; when the church and Israel and Satan and Jesus are in their rightful place. It has a good ending, and we’re on the winning side.” Apply it to your life As the days grow gloriously dark, pray for the nation of Israel, and for those who may not know the Lord.

Sep 29, 2020

It's Time for You to Get a Life

The Book of Ecclesiastes is the journal of King Solomon. It is a record of some of the perplexities he had, as well as some of the mistakes he made. There are three themes from this book when considering the beauty of this life we get to live. First, this book reveals the complex mysteries of life. God does not want life to make sense to us. God, in His infinite wisdom, makes life a mystery to draw us to Him. God put eternity in our hearts; He gave us a desire to see life from an eternal perspective. The answer to life’s mystery is not in nature, history, or science. The answer is that apart from God, wisdom, wealth and work are all meaningless. Ecclesiastes also addresses the challenging adventure of life. In spite of its mystery, God urges us to live with enthusiasm and joy. We cannot let our problems make cynics out of us. There are going to be some hard times; we would be foolish to not enjoy the good times. Adrian Rogers says, “Since God is good, we should live joyfully. Since God is sovereign, we should live confidently. And since God is holy, live life reverently.” Finally, this book reveals that life is a comprehensive test. Everything is going to come to judgment. Because of this, we must learn to rejoice. Adrian Rogers says, “God’s laws do not restrict us; they liberate us.” We must learn, also, to rest and remember; to honor, to obey, to serve God in every season. Everything that King Solomon wrote is by divine inspiration. But we know some things he didn’t know because we have the New Testament. We have an understanding that even Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, did not have before he died, primarily, the answer to the age-old question: What is life all about? Glory to God, we know that Jesus said, “I’ve come that you might have life, and that you might have it abundantly.”(John 10:10) Life is about Jesus and only Jesus. Apart from Him, everything is meaningless. Apply it to your life Life is a complex mystery and a challenging adventure. In order to pass the comprehensive tests of life, we must learn to rejoice in every season, to rest in God’s grace and goodness, and to remember Him.

Sep 17, 2020

Living in the Last Days

Scripture Passage: 1 John 2:18-29 The days are growing gloriously dark; the time is ripe for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. 1 John 2:18-29 heeds three warnings to us as we near the rapture and Great Tribulation prophesied in the Book of Revelation. First, we are living in the last days and we need to be awake. “Little children, it is the last time....” (v. 18) Ever since the ascension of Jesus Christ, we have been on the brink of His return. And because the signs of the revelation are here, we know the rapture must be very close. When He raptures His church, He will come secretly, like a thief in the night; we must be spiritually awake. Second, the antichrist is coming and we need to be aware. “<a href="http://...and" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...and</a> as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.” (v. 18) There is a wicked, malevolent, ungodly person waiting to be revealed after the rapture of the church; he is called the antichrist. We must be aware that he is devilish, divisive, deceptive and destructive. Third, our Lord is on His way and we need to be abiding. “Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye shall also continue in the Son, and in the Father.” (v. 24) While living in the last days, we need to make ourselves at home in the word of God. Now more than ever, we need to appreciate, appropriate, and assimilate Scripture. We must make ourselves at home with the Spirit of God. Adrian Rogers says, “Anything I can talk you into, somebody else can talk you out of; the one who teaches you is the Holy Spirit of God.” Finally, we need to make ourselves at home with the very Son of God. When Jesus comes for us, we shouldn’t have to be formally introduced. Rather, when we see Him face-to-face, it should feel like uniting with someone we’ve known heart-to-heart. Apply it to your life The signs of the upcoming revelation are all around us in these last days. Are you ready for Jesus to come? Are you awake and aware — are you abiding in Christ?

Sep 3, 2020

Broken Beyond Repair

In front of every unsaved person, there is a deadline. When crossed, you will be broken beyond repair. Proverbs 29:1 reads: “He, that being often reproved, hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” There are four thoughts to draw from this passage, so that we may never know the hopelessness of being broken beyond repair. God deals with sinners over and over again, convicting us in loving patience. He speaks to us through the Holy Spirit and through sickness, through sorrow and heartache. God also speaks through His believers and through Scripture. But sometimes, when God convicts, we still rebel. (“He, that being often reproved, hardeneth his neck…”) 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. But, as Adrian Rogers says, “The church is nothing but a society of sinners who've finally realized it and banded themselves together to do something about it.” 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. 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. Then he will face a settled condition (“<a href="http://...and" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...and</a> that without remedy.”). Once he has crossed the 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 the settled condition, before it’s too late.

Aug 28, 2020

How to Be a Growing Christian

A growing Christian is a maturing Christian, because spiritual maturity is becoming more like Jesus. Some Christians are saved, but aren’t growing. We will never know true victory and joy unless we learn how to be a growing Christian. In 1 John 2, the Apostle John compares spiritual maturity to three stages in our physical lives. “I write unto you, little children, because you have known the Father. I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known Him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the Word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.” (v. 14) New Christians experience the thrilling wonders of spiritual childhood. They are “all tomorrows; no yesterdays.” However, children live in the realm of their feelings. They can be selfish and self-centered; uncooperative. We are only young once; and if we aren’t careful, we can be spiritually immature for a long time. If we grow, we’ll experience the triumphant warfare of manhood. Abiding in the Word of God strengthens us for warfare. Obeying God and serving others transforms us into workers and warriors, equipped to combat the enemy. Next comes the tested wisdom of fatherhood. Adrian Rogers says, “When we spend time with someone, we become like that someone.” Because we view God as our Father, the goal of spiritual maturity is to become spiritual fathers (and mothers). Mature Christians reproduce through soul winning and discipleship. What are the means of maturity? There must be the miracle of life; we must be saved. It takes time. There is no instant maturity; we experience growth through time spent with Jesus Christ. Growth requires nourishment; we have to feed on the Word of God. Growth demands discipline and exercise, by serving God and others. Remember: we don’t substitute fatherhood for young manhood, nor young manhood for childhood. In a father, there ought to be the vision and zeal of a young man. In a young man, there ought to be the wonder of childhood. All three stages are legitimate; a mature Christian is a composite of them all. Apply it to your life It takes life, time, nourishment and exercise to grow. Adrian Rogers offers this advice: “Don’t worry about what you can’t do. Find out what you can do and begin to do it, and you will grow.”

Aug 17, 2020

How to Be Absolutely Sure

Adrian Rogers says, “We do not live by explanations; we live by promises.” One of God’s promises is the assurance of our salvation. 1 John 5 reveals the basis for our belief, and how to be absolutely sure of our salvation in Jesus Christ. First, our certainty comes from the Atoning Work of Christ. 1 John 5:6 says, “This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ...” The wages of sin is death (Rom. 3:23) and without the shedding of blood, there’s no remission. Jesus took our sin to the cross, and with His blood He paid sin’s penalty. But there’s also the water, which speaks of that, which continues to cleanse. This assures us, not only of our salvation, but of our sanctification. He saves us from wrath and makes us pure. Adrian Rogers says, “I wouldn’t give half a hallelujah of your hope of Heaven, apart from the water and the blood, apart from the death of the Lord Jesus Christ upon that cross.” Secondly, our certainty comes from the Abiding Witness of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit takes the atoning work and He testifies of it. He gives witness to us and in us. “It is the Spirit that beareth witness because the Spirit is truth.” (v. 6) Before we’re even saved, the Holy Spirit is telling us about Jesus. And when we receive Christ, He comes into us, and witnesses from within. “He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself.” (v. 10) The Spirit also witnesses through us. When we are sure of our salvation, we can witness to others, because we know that our witness is not dependent on eloquence or logic, but upon the Spirit. The third cord of our rock-ribbed assurance is certainty of the Word of the Father. God gave us His Word. Adrian Rogers says, “The message of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, is one message: Jesus saves.” The source of this life is Jesus. The substance of life is Jesus. And the surety of life is Jesus; for the Bible tells me so. Apply it to your life Are you absolutely sure of your salvation? Consider the three cords of your unbroken assurance today: the work Jesus did on the cross, the witness of the Spirit, and the Word of God.

Aug 5, 2020

The Coming Kingdom of Christ

The Coming Kingdom of Christ (1688) Matthew 6:10 says, “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven…” There will come a day that God’s will shall be done on earth as it is in heaven. In this passage, Jesus teaches us to pray for the Coming Kingdom of Christ. It is the Kingdom of God’s government; where God rules and reigns. The purpose of prayer is for God’s will to be done. Therefore, effective prayer is finding the will of God and getting in on it. Adrian Rogers says, “God wants for you what you would want for yourself if you had enough sense to want it.” God has given us principles by which we can know His will: - Surrender: Surrender is more than simply committing to the Lord; it is renouncing control. We'll never know God's will until we are willing to say “Thy will be done.” - Scripture: The Word of God contains the will of God. His word is His revelation to you. - Spirit: The Holy Spirit helps us understand the word of God and articulate our prayers. This is our confidence: When we pray in the Spirit, any prayer that the Holy Spirit lays upon our hearts will be answered. Adrian Rogers says, “The prayer that originates in heaven certainly is not going to be rejected there.” The coming kingdom of Jesus Christ is the Kingdom of God’s grace. Not by works of righteousness that we have done, but according to His mercy, He saved us. (Titus 3:5-7) It is also a Kingdom of God’s goodness. The kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. He is so good. Finally, it is the kingdom of God’s glory. God will be glorified here upon this earth. The earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as waters that cover the sea. (Habbakuk 2:14) His kingdom has not come yet on earth. His will is not being done on earth, but it will be. Apply it to your life Have you surrendered to the will of God? As you pray today, consider praying this simple, yet powerful, declaration: “thy Kingdom come, thy will be done.”

Jul 21, 2020

When We Say "Father"

When We Say "Father" (1684) There is nothing more important than knowing how to pray. Adrian Rogers says, “Nothing can stand against the man who can pray, because prayer can do anything that God can do... and God can do anything.” Matthew 6:9 shows us how to address our God when we pray: “After this manner therefore pray ye, Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name…” What happens when we say, “Father”? First, we express God’s very nature. He is a father. 1 Corinthians 8:6 says, “But there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things in Him.” When we say Father, we also expect His nurture. Calling Him Father infers that we are His children. When we become Christians, we are supernaturally born again. His very life comes into us. We can find great comfort in knowing we have His care. We also have His correction. Hebrews 12:7 says, “for if you endure chastening, God dealeth with you as Sons, for what son is He whom the father chasteneth not?” Adrian Rogers says, “When God saves you, He doesn’t fix you up where you can’t sin any more, but He sure does fix you up where you can’t sin and enjoy it anymore.” We also have His companionship. Again, we are told by Pastor Rogers, “I’m so glad that our heavenly father never gets so busy that he doesn’t have time just to close his ledger and talk to you like there’s no one else on earth and nothing else for Him to do. You can come to Him anytime any day and talk to Him and call Him Daddy.” And we have His compassion. A true father would die for his children. That is exactly what God the Father did when He sent Jesus to take on the sins of the world. Lastly, when we call Him Father, we exalt His name. The name of Jesus is above every name. When we hallow that name — recognize, revere, and rely upon it, we find that we have great power in prayer. Apply it to your life Adrian Rogers says, “We don’t bring our shabbiness to God. When we pray, we pray in the name of Jesus.” When you pray today, call Him Father; express His nature, expect His nurture and exalt His name.

Jul 17, 2020

Heaven’s Bread for Earth’s Hunger

Heaven’s Bread for Earth’s Hunger (2252) No matter how different we may be, human beings have one thing in common: our souls are hungry for something this world cannot satisfy. But the Bible says, Jesus is Heaven’s Bread for earth’s hunger. In John 6, Jesus is speaking to a great multitude that was growing hungry, but there was no food to eat. Yet, they were fed. This story reminds us, first, that there is no problem too big for God to solve. Secondly, we are reminded that there is never a person too small for God to use. Adrian Rogers says, “Don’t insult God by saying God cannot use you; He takes ordinary people, does extraordinary things.” In this story, Jesus used a little boy’s lunch to feed five thousand people. The boy offered what little he had; it was received and blessed by Jesus, and then multiplied. Third, Jesus is the spiritual bread that satisfies the deepest hunger of our souls. John 6:32-33 says, “Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from Heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from Heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from Heaven, and giveth life unto the world.” Jesus reminds the multitude of the day of Moses, in which the people of God received manna from Heaven in the wilderness. This story is symbolic of Jesus, who is not only spiritual bread, but also supernatural bread, having come down from Heaven. Jesus is also the satisfying bread. John 6:35 says, “Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” Finally, Jesus is sustaining bread. John 6:57-58 says, “As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. This is that bread which came down from heaven… he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever. Jesus offers everlasting, abundant life through Him. We’ve been invited to the table, to feed upon Heaven’s Bread, that we may never be hungry again. Apply it to your life Are you hungry for the Lord Jesus? Or are you too filled with other things? Spend some time today feeding on God’s Word.

Jul 16, 2020

Is There Hope for America?

Is There Hope for America? (5648) Is there hope for America? Yes: Jesus Christ’s spirit in us is still the only hope for America. However, it seems America is in a post-Christian era; professing Christians now enter hostile territory. We may be tempted to retreat or to allow political strategies to substitute the gospel of Jesus Christ. But we don’t have the luxury of silence. We’ve been called to preach the Gospel and come to the aid of our brothers and sisters in Christ, regardless of denomination, vocation, economic status and race. If we want to share the only hope for America, we must adopt the principles found in 1 Peter 3. The first principle we must adopt is lordship. 1 Peter 3:15 says, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts…” Nothing should come between us and our obedience to God. Before anything else, we must sanctify the Lord God in our hearts. Secondly, adopt the principle of learning. 1 Peter 3:15 goes on, “<a href="http://...and" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...and</a> be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you of the reason of the hope that is in you…” The answers to the world’s questions are readily available to us in God’s Word. We need to be the people in society and politics who know what they believe and why they believe it. The third principle to adopt is lowliness. 1 Peter 3:15 goes on: “<a href="http://...with" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...with</a> meekness and fear.” Adrian Rogers says, “Meekness is strength under control. And the word fear in this context is a holy reverence for Almighty God.” We can’t be arrogant; Lowliness and true humility were the method that Jesus used in His ministry, and it is what we ought to use. The fourth principle to adopt is a new lifestyle. There needs to be something different about us. We are called to be set apart. The final principle to take on is love. 1 Peter 3:8 says, “Finally, be ye of all, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.” Churches need to be places of love. People need to know, not what we’re against, but what we’re for, which is the gospel of Jesus Christ. Apply it to your life Have you adopted these principles? The only hope for America is Christians who begin to look more like Christ, the Savior of the world.

Jul 14, 2020

The Politics of Pilgrims

The Politics of Pilgrims (2133) As Christians of this day and age, our greatest need is to realize that we are pilgrims heading to a home which is not of this world. The Apostle Paul wrote the Book of Philippians from a prison in Rome; a city of great hostility toward Christians. It was in this prison cell he told the church of Philippi: “Our citizenship is in heaven.” (Philippians 3:20) He points out the politics of those once born and of those twice born. We notice there is a great contrast in their affections, allegiance, and aspirations. In order to understand the politics of pilgrims, we must first: - Remember our mandate. Our mandate is still the Great Commission, preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth. - Utilize the right method. Our ally is the Holy Spirit. Our source of supply is Almighty God. Our Commander in Chief is Jesus Christ. And our battle ax is the Word of God. - Have the right mindset. Philippians 4:4 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say, Rejoice.” It’s easy to become bitter about what wicked people in power are doing. But we are supposed to keep our eyes on Jesus and rejoice always. Knowing our politics, we can commit to the Pilgrim’s Resolution: 1. “I will not despair.” Adrian Rogers says, “It may be possible for some earthly kingdom to be in decline and God’s kingdom to be doing quite well.” 2. “I will not be intimidated.” Be encouraged when the polls do not turn in our favor: we belong in the minority. Jesus says in John 15:18, “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.” 3. “I will not be bitter.” Philippians 4:8 encourages us to dwell on “...whatsoever things are true… honest… just… pure… lovely… of good report… of any virtue… of any praise.” 4. “I will not compromise.” Don’t stop voting or participating. Adrian Rogers says, “We must hold high the flag of Jesus Christ, the blood-stained banner of our Prince and King and never compromise Jesus Christ.” Apply it to your life As Adrian Rogers says, “Let the Congress make the laws. Let Hollywood run their garbage pit. Let Wall Street take care of the economy. And let’s tell this world about Jesus.”

Jul 10, 2020

Christian Citizenship

Christian Citizenship (2080) What does the Bible say about Christian citizenship? What are our responsibilities, duties, and rights? What are Christians to do, to think, and how are we instructed to behave? Many Christian citizens shy away from political involvement for various reasons. Some are discouraged, others are intimidated or annoyed. But Romans 13:1-7 encourages us, first, to look at the reasons for human government. The Bible tells us that human government is ordained by God. Daniel 2:21 says, “He (the Lord), removeth kings and setteth up kings.” God ordains human government for two reasons: to restrain evil and to reward good. Romans 13 also outlines the requirements for human government. In Matthew 22, Jesus tells the people, “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and unto God the things that are God’s.” As Christians, our responsibility is, first and foremost, to God; but we do have a responsibility to human government. Adrian Rogers says, “Separation of church and state does not mean the separation of God and government.” The government is here to restrain evil. The church is here to preach the Gospel. The state is not the master of the church, and the church is not the master of the state. The church is the conscience of the state. We are here to hold up a standard of truth. There are six duties Christian citizens have concerning our government. 1. Pay our government: Jesus paid His taxes; we ought to do likewise. 2. Pray for our government: Adrian Rogers says, “The greatest responsibility in America is not in the White House but in the church house.” 3. Praise our government: We are to give honor to whom honor is due. 4. Preach to our country: Adrian Rogers says, “We dare not identify the Christian faith with the Democrat or the Republican Party. We need to be free to tell both parties to repent and get right with God.” 5. Participate in our government: Christians are to participate, not on the basis of parties, but principles. We are to be informed. 6. Persuade our government: Our hope for America is to change public opinion. The Great Commission remains the same: we are instructed to win souls for Jesus Christ. Apply it to your life Have you been a good steward of your Christian citizenship? Are you involved? Get informed and pray for our government.

Jul 8, 2020

The Leadership Crisis in America

The Leadership Crisis in America (1939) God has ordained our government and commanded us to get involved in the decisions made for the leadership of our country. Adrian Rogers says, “Leadership is really stewardship, because the leader acts for God.” Jesus taught us to participate in government when He said We are to render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s. We’re to render to God the things that are God’s. (Matthew 22:21) There are four basic principles to consider when responding to the leadership crisis in America. Think first about the character that God requires in leadership. God blesses good character over ability. When you go to vote, consider the following qualities that God requires: Godliness: Nobody is fit for leadership who is ungodly or unrighteous. Wisdom: Does your candidate have the wisdom that can only be given by God? Honesty: Proverbs 20:28 says, “Mercy and truth preserve the king.” Discernment: Someone who is able to distinguish between good and bad. Sexual Morality: If a man has no moral standard of his own, he can’t set a moral standard for the nation. Sober: Look for a leader who is not only sober-minded, but simply sober. Protective: A good leader protects the weak and defends those who cannot defend themselves. Secondly, remember the choice that God respects. God allows us to choose against His will, and that is the reason we receive the poor leadership we deserve. Adrian Rogers says, “Wicked rulers are God’s reward for wicked people.” Third, see the consequences that God reveals. It is deeply disturbing to consider that America doesn’t know the trouble she’s in on the path she’s currently walking. Proverbs 29:2 says, “When the righteous are in authority the people rejoice, but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.” But ultimately, remember the control that God reserves. Even if wicked men make wicked choices for wicked rulers lead, God has forsaken control. God is still the King of kings. Adrian Rogers says, “If we do not allow God to rule in America, God will still overrule.” Apply it to your life What should we do about the leadership crisis in America? 1. Pray for revival. 2. Prepare for suffering. 3. Prepare for His arrival. Let the voting polls be a reminder: Jesus is coming, soon.

Jul 7, 2020

How to Pray for America

How to Pray for America (2482) America is at a crossroads of morality and spirituality and we cannot afford to take it lightly. Our nation has been taken captive by the world, the flesh, and the devil. In times of crisis, we remember that our greatest resource is prayer, and our only hope for this country is God. We must understand how to pray for America because only prayer can hold back the judgment of God. In the Book of Daniel, God’s people had been taken captive by the Babylonians. In chapter 9, we find a very specific prayer from Daniel for his nation, asking God for deliverance. It was a prayer with serious concentration. Daniel 9:3 says, “And I set my face, unto the Lord God.” It is not the length, eloquence or frequency, but the faith and fervency of our prayers that reach the ears of the Lord. If you want to strengthen your prayer life, consider fasting. In the Bible, God always links fasting with spiritual activities. We should be careful to fast for the right reasons, not for our own glory. If you feel called to fast, first examine your motivation and avoid extremism. Pray for God’s guidance; be wise about when you fast and for how long. Daniel also prayed with steadfast confidence. Adrian Rogers says, “It is impossible to see the greatness of God and the mercies of God and not pray with confidence. Face your problem, but focus on your God.” Daniel also prayed with sincere confession. He confessed his personal sin, but also asked God for forgiveness on his nation’s behalf. Likewise, we should confess the sins of America to God: our greed and materialism, our neglect of the poor, our racism. We should ask God’s forgiveness for our nation’s sexual immorality, for killing the unborn, for the humanism we’ve allowed to infiltrate our schools. We must identify ourselves with our nation, and confess on its behalf. Lastly, Daniel prayed with spiritual concern. In chapter 9, Daniel asked for the removal of guilt, and the restoration of glory. The concern of our prayers for America ought to be for a revival, not simply for America’s sake, but for the glory of God. Apply it to your life There’s no time for finger-pointing; it’s time for personal repentance and national confession; pray for America.

Jul 3, 2020

The Generation to Come and the American of Tomorrow

The Generation to Come and the American of Tomorrow (2232) America did not just happen; America was a gift from God. However, it seems as though the virtues and values upon which this nation was built have been trampled. What legacy are we going to leave for the generation to come? What is the America of tomorrow? It could look like Psalm 78. In this passage, God had blessed the nation Israel, delivered them from the chains of slavery, and brought them into a good land. Yet, they defiled the land, denied the Lord, and disobeyed the new law. If we want to avoid the judgment given in Psalm 78, we must heed to this ancient truth in today's world, following three practical ways. First, we need to review our history: As a country: America has a distinct spiritual heritage. We must teach our children America’s history of trusting in God. As a family: How did your family come to know Jesus? Do your children know the story of how the Gospel changed their heritage? As a church: It is crucial to remain rooted in the infallible Word of God our churches were built upon. As an individual: We must understand and acknowledge what God has done in our lives and tell the generation to come. The lust of the flesh; rather than thanking God for blessings, Israel asked for more, testing His graciousness. The lure of the world; they broke God’s heart by forgetting Him, renovated the nation to exclude the One upon whom it was built. The lies of the devil; the one who steals, kills, and destroys was behind it all. Next, we need to renew our memory. As a nation, we have three evil principalities at work, trying to manipulate our perspectives. We see them here in Psalm 78: Finally, we must reclaim our legacy. Adrian Rogers tells us, “Not only is God our greatest hope, God is our biggest threat. And the nation that was born in 1776 must be born again or we will join the graveyard of the nations.” The America of tomorrow depends on our decision to reclaim our legacy. We have to do the best we can with what we’ve got, every chance we get. Apply it to your life Our only hope is to review our history, renew our memory, and reclaim our legacy. For the sake of the generation to come, repent, and turn to God.

Jul 1, 2020

5 Ways to be a Successful Husband

5 Ways to be a Successful Husband (2229)

Jun 18, 2020

Building on the Word of God

Building on the Word of God (0539) The Book of Nehemiah tells the story of the rebuilding of the fallen walls of Jerusalem. And at the end of the sixth chapter, the walls were completed. Despite the devil’s attempts to stop them, the people of God prevailed, and built as God instructed them. Nehemiah 7 begins: the job was completed. The people of God were secure, organized, housed and fed. But there was something that needed to be done inside these freshly restored city walls: building their community on the Word of God. God blessed His people with a real, genuine revival; one that was rooted in a hunger for the Word of God. Nehemiah 8:1 tells us, "And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of the Moses, which the Lord had commanded to Israel." There was a famine for the word of God. The people gathered and begged Ezra to preach to them. The revival came about by a hearing of the Word of God. Nehemiah 8:3 says, "And he read therein before the street that was, read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday." Adrian Rogers says, “These people were attentive, not time conscious. They had revival because they were not clock watchers.” There was an honor given to the Word of God. Our greatest danger is indifference toward Scripture. If we believe the Bible to be true, we ought to honor it as these people did in Nehemiah 8. There was a proper handling of Scripture. It’s not just enough to read the Bible; someone has to explain it. Preaching Scripture is reading a passage of scripture, then analyzing, organizing, illustrating, and applying it. Finally, there was a heeding of the word of God. What took place when they began to heed to the word of God? 1. There was mourning over their own sin. 2. There was joy. 3. There was obedience. A church that is built on the Word of God is one that obeys His commands. Apply it to your life Do you have a relationship with Jesus that is built on the Word of God? Until you know Jesus, you won’t understand His Word. And until you understand His Word, you will never truly live.

Jun 16, 2020

Weapons of Our Warfare

Weapons of Our Warfare (0534) Before he ever rebuilt the fallen walls of Jerusalem, Nehemiah was a man of prayer, facing serious spiritual warfare. When we live for God, we find ourselves in a battle between light and darkness, death and life, Heaven and Hell. Every Christian is called to be a part of it. Before we can identify our weapons in this warfare, we need to learn about our adversary, the devil. The Bible says we wrestle against “the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Eph. 6:12)Our intellect is no match for his subtlety and unrighteous spirituality, or his strength. How are we supposed to fight this enemy? Ephesians 6:13-17 tells us to put on the armor of God: The Belt of Truth holds everything together, locked in for battle with the truth from Scripture. - The Breastplate of Righteousness protects us from the enemy’s arrows of impurity. - The Boots of Peace keep us encouraged as we tread through dangerous territory. - The Shield of Faith protects us from the enemy’s attacks of doubt. - The Helmet of Salvation gives us full assurance of God’s constant deliverance. - The Sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. Ephesians 6:18 says, “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” Putting on the armor of God is preparing ourselves to pray in the Spirit. Adrian Rogers says, “Prayer is not getting ready to fight. That’s where the fight is…The devil mocks our schemes, he laughs at our toiling, but he fears our prayers.” Praying in the Spirit listens to God. It is a prayer that abides and lovingly intercedes on behalf of others. It’s also hard work; it takes blood, sweat and tears to pray in the Spirit. Though it takes much work, praying in the Spirit is the weapon of our warfare that Satan cannot stand against. Apply it to your life Put on the armor of God and go to battle. Pray in the Spirit; listen to God, abide, intercede for others, and embrace the hard work it takes.

Jun 12, 2020

The Devices of the Devil

The Devices of the Devil (1561) The Book of Nehemiah tells the story of the rebuilding of the fallen walls of Jerusalem. And at the end of the sixth chapter, the walls were completed. Despite the devil’s attempts to stop them, the people of God prevailed, and built as God instructed them. Nehemiah 7 begins: the job was completed. The people of God were secure, organized, housed, and fed. But there was something that needed to be done inside these freshly restored city walls: building their community on the Word of God. God blessed His people with a real, genuine revival; one that was rooted in a hunger for the Word of God. Nehemiah 8:1 says, "And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of the Moses, which the Lord had commanded to Israel." There was a famine for the word of God. The people gathered and begged Ezra to preach to them. The revival came about by the hearing of the Word of God. Nehemiah 8:3 says, "And he read therein before the street that was, read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday." Adrian Rogers says, “These people were attentive, not time conscious. They had revival because they were not clock watchers.” There was an honor given to the Word of God. Our greatest danger is indifference toward Scripture. If we believe the Bible to be true, we ought to honor it as these people did in Nehemiah 8. There was a proper handling of Scripture. It’s not just enough to read the Bible; someone has to explain it. Preaching Scripture is reading a passage of scripture, then analyzing, organizing, illustrating, and applying it. Finally, there was a heeding of the word of God. What took place when they began to heed to the word of God? 1. There was mourning over their own sin. 2. There was joy. 3. There was obedience. A church that is built on the Word of God is one that obeys His commands. Apply it to your life Do you have a relationship with Jesus that is built on the Word of God? Until you know Jesus, you won’t understand His Word. And until you understand His Word, you will never truly live.

Jun 10, 2020

Dealing with Discouragement

Dealing with Discouragement (0533) Any work for God will be met with opposition from the devil. And one of the devil’s methods to stop the work of God is through discouragement. Nehemiah 4 shows us how to deal with discouragement. While rebuilding the fallen walls of the city of Jerusalem, Nehemiah and his team faced the enemy’s attack of discouragement. This passage reveals, first, the curse and the three causes of discouragement. First, Nehemiah’s people were worn out. They were in the middle of the job, working hard, growing tired. The newness had worn off, yet the end was far out of reach. Second, they were weighted down. They had a task to do; rather than seeing it one step at a time, they saw the rubbish, trash and debris. The task seemed too big. Third, they were wrought up. The enemy knows just when we are in breaching difficulty, physically debilitated, or when we have more to do than we can do. He can sense when things are about to cave in. That is when he attacks. And unfortunately, much like in this passage, the attack can come from other people of God. Adrian Rogers says, “Do you know the hardest thing for me to face as a pastor? It's not what the enemy does out there, but it is people within the camp who say it can't be done.” Nehemiah then took six steps to re-encourage those who had been discouraged: 1. He armed his people, equipping them for battle as they built. 2. He assured his people, urging them to remember the Lord their God. 3. He aroused his people, stirring in their hearts with a powerful message: “You’re not just building walls… you’re building lives.” 4. He applied his people, instructing them to get back to work. 5. He assembled his people, unifying them before God. 6. He admonished his people, warning them to be careful. Apply it to your life Are you dealing with discouragement today? As Adrian Rogers says, “Be sober; be vigilant. Let's stay on our knees and keep our face in the book. Let's keep loving one another and be deathly afraid of sin. Let's keep on the whole armor of God. Let's not be careless, not play loose; let's stay together. Let's love, let's believe God; and together God’s people will see great things done.”

Jun 8, 2020

Reacting to Ridicule

Reacting to Ridicule (0531) The Book of Nehemiah tells the story of Nehemiah’s return to his homeland to rebuild the fallen walls of Jerusalem. In Nehemiah 4, he and his team faced criticism for their work. Their mockers ridiculed their feebleness and the futility of their task. They laughed at Nehemiah’s confidence to accomplish his big task at hand. They mocked the foolishness of their faith and the frailty of their work. They didn’t think Nehemiah’s work would last. Ridicule is one of the hardest things we will face as Christians. We are feeble people by the world’s standards (measured by numbers, size, prestige and finances). The world doesn’t believe we can do what we have been commissioned and empowered to do by Jesus Christ. They laugh at what they call the foolishness of our faith. When reacting to ridicule, we ought to remember what things Nehemiah did. He made practical considerations. First, he considered the cause of the ridicule.Ridicule is a substitute for reason. If these mockers couldn’t reason Nehemiah out of this work for God, they would ridicule him, instead. He also considered the character of his mockers. Adrian Rogers says, “We’re known not only by the friends that we make, we’re also known by the enemies that we make.” He considered the company he was in. When we are scorned, we must remember: Jesus Christ was scorned. We are in good company. He considered the compensation he would receive, because “when men will persecute you, and revile you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely for My name sake, rejoice and be exceeding glad.” (Matthew 5:11) Then he considered the conclusion of the matter: God, Himself, will have the last laugh. Nehemiah carried the ridicule to God in prayer; and then, he got to work. In spite of all of the threats of the enemy, of the ridicule and scorn, this team kept their work in mind. Rather than submitting to the criticism, they just started doing what God had called them to do. What would happen if we had a mind to work and a heart to pray as Nehemiah and his team did? Apply it to your life Our reaction to ridicule is clearly outlined in Nehemiah 4: 1. Practically consider the ridicule. 2. Prayerfully speak your concern to God. 3. Get to work!

Jun 5, 2020

Let Us Arise and Build

Let Us Arise and Build (0530) In Nehemiah 2, Nehemiah is commissioned by God to rebuild the fallen walls of Jerusalem that had left the people of God without defense. In this passage, there are six principles Nehemiah practiced in building the walls. We can apply these principles as we rise and build the fallen walls in our lives. The first thing Nehemiah did was fix his focus. Nehemiah had a mandate from God. He fasted, prayed, and wept, and God revealed to him what to do. In the same way, God has a purpose for our lives and our goal and aim should point toward that purpose. Second, Nehemiah found the facts. Nehemiah saw for himself that God’s work in Jerusalem was in ruins. In finding the facts, he was able to calculate what it would take to rebuild. Then he formed a fellowship. Nehemiah knew that there is strength in numbers and in unity; he knew he could not do by himself. Though God called him to lead, he said, “Come, let us do it together.” (v. 17) After this, Nehemiah fortified his faith. Human nature fears the new. Whenever anyone suggests doing something great and noble, there's always a sick feeling in the pit of our stomachs that maybe it cannot be done. Christians, let us not forget: God is leading, and if God's good hand is upon us, it can be done. God is the one who opens doors that no one can shut. But remember: God only opens doors for people who want to go through them. Next, Nehemiah faced his foe. Adrian Rogers says, “The door to the room of opportunity swings on the hinges of opposition.” When we come to an open door, we will have adversaries. But if God is for us, who can be against us? (Rom. 8:31) Lastly, Nehemiah fulfilled his function. Reconstruction begins in Nehemiah 3. What a wonderful thing it was as each man found his place along the wall and fulfilled his function. Each person had a part in the work. Each person had a job to do. But notice: these builders began construction near his own house. Let this be a reminder to begin at home, in our own hearts. Apply it to your life Are there fallen spiritual walls in your life? Let us arise and build! Start in your own heart, in your own life.

Jun 3, 2020

How to Turn Your Problems into Possibilities

How to Turn Your Problems into Possibilities (0527) God wants us to see our problems as possibilities, and our adversaries as opportunities. Whether we, as individuals or as a church, are trying to turn a problem into possibilities, the Book of Nehemiah shows us that God has wonderful plans for us. There are three basic steps we must take in order to do anything glorious in the name of Jesus. The first thing we must do is visualize. Nehemiah received the news of the city of Jerusalem’s fallen walls. Walls in the Bible had a symbolic meaning. They spoke of glory, salvation and the protection of God over his people; and these walls had fallen. These walls are also symbolic to us. We, too, are called to rebuild walls that have fallen: walls of national security, of the family, of decency, of our educational system and of doctrine. The second step is to agonize. In Nehemiah 1:4, Nehemiah prayed a prayer of contrition. He wept over the condition of the city. Adrian Rogers says, “Society has forgotten how to blush, and the church has forgotten how to weep.” He prayed a prayer of confession. Nehemiah understood that if he didn't repent, he would remain part of the problem, not the solution. It was also a prayer of confidence. Real prayer is rooted in the promises from the Word of God. Finally, it was a prayer of commitment. Nehemiah had a great job in a great disposition, however, when God burdened him over the city of Jerusalem, he decided to get involved. The final step is to organize. When God began to move in Nehemiah’s heart, Nehemiah asked for the king’s permission to return to his homeland, as well as for protection and provision to rebuild. We, as a church or as individuals, must be bold to ask the King of kings for permission, protection and provision as we rebuild the walls of our conviction. It’s only then we will turn our problems into possibilities. Apply it to your life Visualize until God gives you a burden; agonize until you know that you've confessed your sins and made a commitment; then organize and get to work. Ask God for His permission, provision and protection.

Jun 1, 2020

Victory of a Mother’s Faith

Victory of a Mother’s Faith (1924) Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Hebrews 11:23-27 The most influential people on earth are mothers of faith. One powerful example is Jochebed, a Hebrew slave, mother of Moses, whose faith saved her son and, eventually, an entire people. Hebrews 11:23-27 reveals five things about Jochebed’s faith that remain true for mothers of faith everywhere. First, Jochebed’s faith saw a promise from God. “By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child…” Jochebed saw that her son, Moses, was a gift from God. She recognized his legitimacy, saw he needed protection at a time when her nation was slaughtering babies like him. Second, her faith acted upon the promise of God. Not only did Moses’ parents have faith, their faith led to action. They hid Moses in order to protect him. “<a href="http://...and" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...and</a> they were not afraid of the king's commandment.” Those were dark days, yet the Bible says that Moses’ parents were full of valor. They knew God, His Word and His promise to deliver His people. “By faith Moses… refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.” Jochebed’s faith saw victory; God preserved the life of that child. Not only that, God had engineered a faith in Moses’ heart, through the faith of his mother. “By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.” Jochebed’s faith obtained strong, godly values she would pass on to Moses, who, in turn, would pass them onto God’s people. Thank God for young men and women who have fires built into them by mothers and fathers of faith. Adrian Rogers says, “The great need today is godly parents, who in spite of the king's commandments, listen to the King of kings instead.” Apply it to your life Have you been made new in Christ? Does your life show that you have a new Lord, life, liberty, love and labor?

May 8, 2020

The Simplicity of Salvation

The Simplicity of Salvation (1276) The Gospel is meant to be told simply. God wants salvation to be made simple, because it is His desire that anyone can understand and obtain it. Acts 16:23-31 tells the story of Paul and Silas, who have been put in prison for preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They’ve been beaten and stuffed into a dungeon; yet, they are singing and praising God. Then came a great earthquake, and the prison doors and shackles came undone. They were free. When the jailor saw that the prisoners were freed, yet remained in their cell, he asked, “What must I do to be saved?” Paul and Silas’s answer reveals the beautiful simplicity of salvation. First, we must consider the meaning of salvation. To be saved means to be delivered from sin. Sin comes in three forms: The wrong we do The right we don’t do The good we do without God So what does it mean to be saved from sin? We are saved from the penalty, the pollution, the power and the presence of sin. Second, we must consider the man of salvation: the Lord Jesus Christ. Acts 16:30 says “...Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shall be saved.” When these disciples said, “Lord” they meant He’s the Master of our lives. When these disciples said, “Jesus” they meant He's the Mediator between us and God. When these disciples said, “Christ” they meant He’s the Messiah, the one who saves. Finally, remember the method of salvation: Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved. What does it mean to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ? It is not mere intellectual belief. The demons believe and tremble (James 2:19), and they are certainly not saved. “Believe on” means “commit to”. Commit to the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Rom. 10:13) And whosoever means anybody, any time, any place, anywhere. Apply it to your life If someone asks you, “How can I be saved?” as the jailor asked Paul and Silas, would you know what to say?

May 5, 2020

How You Can Be Sure

How You Can Be Sure (1253) Acts 10 tells the story of a Roman army officer named Cornelius. Cornelius was also a Gentile. Up until this time, the Gentiles had not been added to the Christian church (the early believers were Jewish). Yet, Cornelius was hungry to know God and he was hungry for faith in Jesus Christ. Supernaturally, God brought Cornelius and the apostle Peter together. As he is presenting the Gospel to Cornelius, Peter claims three indisputable witnesses who testify that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. By believing them, we, like Cornelius, can be sure of our salvation as well. The first was a personal witness of the saints. The apostles standing before Cornelius had literally walked with Jesus during his ministry. The disciples were a diverse group of young men who lived with Him, ate and fellowshipped with Him. They personally witnessed His life, death and resurrection. And though a wide mixture of characters, the disciples’ recollection of Jesus is unanimous: He is the resurrected Son of God. The second was the prophetic witness of the Scriptures. Every page of Scripture is about Jesus, if not explicitly, then prophetically. Even in the Old Testament, before Jesus walked the earth, prophecies the salvation He would bring to mankind. The Bible has one hero, which is Jesus; and it has one message: Jesus saves. Adrian Rogers says, “The Bible was not written primarily to give us the history of Israel. It's not written primarily to tell us about ceremonies and rituals; the Bible was written to tell us that Jesus saves.” Lastly, the Holy Spirit acted as the third witness. After he was saved, Cornelius immediately received the Holy Ghost and began to speak in tongues. This was the outward evidence of the internal work of God in the hearts of these new believers. God was expanding the church to include the Gentiles right before their eyes. Jew and Gentile became one body, by witness of the saints, the Scripture and the Spirit. Apply it to your life Are you sure of your salvation and do you believe the three indisputable witnesses at hand?

Apr 30, 2020

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Love Worth Finding | Audio Program

The Lost World

Let&apos;s Celebrate Passover

The Power of Praise

Family Faithfulness

Family Future

Who is Jesus? The God-Man

The Stars and Scars of Christmas

Three Miracle Births

The Blood Covenant

The Secret of Satisfaction (1659)

The Mighty Meek

Turning Tears into Telescopes

Integrity: Don&apos;t Leave Home Without It

A Place Called Heaven

What Does the Word of God Say About Government?

It&apos;s Prayer Time in America

The Gospel Truth

An Unchanging Message to a Changing World

The Time of Your Life

The Leadership Crisis in America

The Discipline of Darkness

A Formula for Fellowship

A Nation in Crisis

Detours, Dead Ends, and Dry Holes

The New World Order

It&apos;s Time for You to Get a Life

Living in the Last Days

Broken Beyond Repair

How to Be a Growing Christian

How to Be Absolutely Sure

The Coming Kingdom of Christ

When We Say &quot;Father&quot;

Heaven’s Bread for Earth’s Hunger

Is There Hope for America?

The Politics of Pilgrims

Christian Citizenship

The Leadership Crisis in America

How to Pray for America

The Generation to Come and the American of Tomorrow

5 Ways to be a Successful Husband

Building on the Word of God

Weapons of Our Warfare

The Devices of the Devil

Dealing with Discouragement

Reacting to Ridicule

Let Us Arise and Build

How to Turn Your Problems into Possibilities

Victory of a Mother’s Faith

The Simplicity of Salvation

How You Can Be Sure

Let's Celebrate Passover

Integrity: Don't Leave Home Without It

It's Prayer Time in America

It's Time for You to Get a Life

When We Say "Father"