All Episodes — Love Worth Finding | Audio Program

The Secret of Satisfaction

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?

Sep 9, 202537 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, “...as 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.

Sep 5, 202535 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?

Sep 3, 202536 min

When Bankruptcy Becomes a Blessing

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 5:1-9 “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3) In our world today, there is a stronger emphasis on what we have than on what we are. The world says, “Blessed are those with wealth, strength, power, knowledge, and popularity.” But in his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus puts an emphasis not primarily on what a man has, but on what a man is. The first of these character qualities is a poorness of spirit. Matthew 5 reveals how bankruptcy can become a blessing. “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” In this passage, Jesus is not talking about financial poverty. Rather, He is identifying the spiritual poverty of a man. In the spiritual realm, we are absolutely, totally bankrupt—beggars before God. We must discover this truth, and admit it; if we don't see it or refuse to acknowledge it, we will never receive the kingdom of heaven. Adrian Rogers says, “This discovery comes when we see just who God is, and then we understand who we are.” Brokenness follows this discovery; we realize we cannot depend on the things we once believed we could. We cannot depend on our pedigrees, our education, or knowledge; these things cannot help us. Those who are spiritually bankrupt cannot afford to be proud. All we can do is declare our dire condition. Because, as Matthew 5 reveals, spiritual beggars are blessed…“for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” This condition is a blessing because it is the only way we can get to heaven. Adrian Rogers says, “Until a man lays his pride in the dust, he cannot be saved. Even God cannot fill that which is already full. We'll never live spiritually until we admit we are dead spiritually.” When we lay aside our pride and receive salvation from Jesus Christ, we are, in turn, received by God, just as we are. It is the only way we can come to the Father. Apply it to your life Discover your spiritual bankruptcy, depend on God’s promises, and declare it to others today. Adrian Rogers says, “Evangelism is one beggar telling another beggar how to find bread.”

Sep 1, 202533 min

Victorious Prayer

Victorious Prayer (1696) Matthew 6:13 says, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” Oftentimes, we don’t expect God to answer our prayers. But in this passage, Jesus taught us to pray for deliverance from the evil one. He would never teach us to pray that if He did not intend to deliver us. In these dangerous days, we’re up against the organized, demonized forces of hell. The best thing we can do is learn how to pray this victorious prayer. First, we must see the sinister person of evil. Many of us walk in darkness, because we don’t understand who our enemy is. By the aid of the Holy Spirit, we can expose him for what he is: a person of evil, who hides behind a veil of lies. We are instructed to be sober and vigilant, to view him as a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8) We also need to realize the seductive power of evil. His motive is to be worshipped, so he deceives us through various, seemingly harmless methods. It is ignorant to underestimate the devil’s power. Adrian Rogers says, “If you’ve never met the devil, it’s because you and the devil are going in the same direction.” We’re instructed to ask God for deliverance at the start of the day, not the end. If we’re asking God to forgive the same sins, we haven’t learned to pray, Lord lead us, lest we fall into temptation. Deliver us from evil. Finally, we must rely on the sovereign protection from evil… “For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory.” We don’t have to fear; we can stand upon this victorious prayer. And what is the ground of our victory? God Himself, who has absolute authority. His kingdom cannot fail; He rules on earth and heaven. John 14:13 says, “And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, I will do it that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” Apply it to your life Do you want an answered prayer? Adrian Rogers says, “When your reason for asking and God’s reason for answering are the same, your prayer will be the same. Your prayer will be answered. When you want Him glorified and He wants to be glorified, your prayer will be answered.”

Aug 27, 2025

The Freedom of Forgiveness

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 6:9-15 Matthew 6:14 says, “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” The two great enemies against the human soul are guilt and bitterness. And the freedom of forgiveness is the only thing that can combat them. We are freed from guilt when we are forgiven by God. We are freed from bitterness when we forgive others. There are four compelling reasons to forgive. The Grace Factor: We forgive because we have been forgiven. The Guilt Factor: If we do not forgive, we can no longer be forgiven. The Grief Factor: An unforgiving spirit keeps us in the prison of our own making. The Gain Factor: When we forgive, we release a prisoner and gain a brother. Remember the costly requirements of forgiveness. Forgiveness is much more than merely accepting an apology. It cancels a debt; when you forgive your debtor, then you pay up. Forgive freely as Jesus did, not after your transgressor has paid his price. Also forgive and finally; bury it in the grave. When God forgives us, He forgets, not intellectually; rather, He remembers our sins against us no more. There’s no grudge. Adrian Rogers says, “The biggest test as to whether or not you truly did forgive is if you keep bringing it up again.” This may seem difficult to do; but if we will let Him, God will give us the desire and the dynamic to do so. What are the results of forgiveness? There will be release: you will set a prisoner free and find out that prisoner is you. You will no longer bear this burden of bitterness that is destroying your soul. If your transgressor will receive that forgiveness, there will be reconciliation. You will gain a brother. And together, you will have a revival. Apply it to your life Do you have guilt and bitterness in your life? Have you repented and accepted the forgiveness of God? Have you forgiven others?

Aug 25, 2025

How to Pray for Our Daily Bread

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 6:9-13 Jesus’s model prayer in Matthew 6 teaches us that it is not the length or language of our prayers, but their faith and focus that elevate them to Heaven. Verse 11 says, “Give us this day our daily bread.” Bread is symbolic of any need we may have. It gives God honor to meet our needs. Adrian Rogers gives four steps on how to pray for our daily bread. We must establish a proper priority. We must express our prayerful petition. You must exercise a personal performance. You must enjoy a present provision. Notice the priority established in Matthew 6:9-13: Thy name, Thy kingdom, Thy will, our bread, our debts, our temptation. If we don't establish this priority, we will not see an answer. Adrian Rogers says, “There's one place that God will not work and that is second place.” Adrian Rogers tells us, “Prayer is the key that unlocks heaven’s treasury.” God will not meet greed, but He delights in meeting every need. He says “Ask of me and I will answer thee” (Jeremiah 33:3). We must learn to ask: “Give us this day bread sufficient for us: what we need.” Proverbs 30:7-8: “Two things have I required of thee. Deny me them not before I die. Remove far from me vanity and lies. Give me neither poverty nor riches. Feed me with food convenient for me.” Prayer is not a substitute for work and diligence. Proverbs 20:4 says, “The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold. Therefore shall he beg in harvest and have nothing.” We show our faith by doing something, for faith without works is dead (James 2:26). If we do not learn to be content in any state, we will never be content. The Bible does not tell us not to plan, but the Bible very clearly tells us not to worry. Be content with a little and don’t worry about tomorrow. Who needs a barn of stale bread when our Father is a Rich Baker? Apply it to your life When you pray for God’s daily provision, are your priorities aligned with His? Have you asked for His providence? Are you prepared to work for what you’re asking for? Are you thankful for what He’s given you today?

Aug 21, 2025

The Coming Kingdom of Christ

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 6:9-10 Matthew 6:10 says, “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven…” There will come a day when 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 (Habakkuk 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.”

Aug 19, 202534 min

When We Say “Father"

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 6:9-13 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.

Aug 15, 202538 min

Understanding the New Birth

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: John 3:1-7 In John 3:1-7, Jesus explains to Nicodemus the concept of being “born again.” And if you are a Christian, you are born again. Adrian Rogers says, “By your first birth you have existence. By your second birth you have supernatural life.” Understanding the new birth is crucial to our faith. First, we must understand the three reasons why a person must be born again. By nature, we are plagued with undeniable sinfulness, unsatisfied longings, and our soul’s unending existence. For these reasons, there is an urgency to be born again. Spiritual rebirth, in many ways, parallels physical birth. In a birth, conception takes place. A mother and father join together to conceive a child; in the same way, the Word of God and the Spirit of God unite to conceive a new birth. John 3:5 says, “Jesus answered, ‘Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” (Water symbolizes the Word of God in Scripture.) Much like parents transmit life into their children, God breathes new life into us. In our new birth, we receive the character of God. Some traits of someone twice-born are a love for Jesus Christ, a desire for holiness, the inner witness of the Spirit, and a desire to share Jesus with others. Birth is a once-for-all experience. In the natural realm, you are born one time. In the spiritual realm, rebirth is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. After birth, true growth begins. Birth simply is the starting place; when we are born again, glory to God, we have a brand new start. Adrian Rogers says, “When you get saved, all of your past, all your yesterdays, are buried in the grave of God’s forgetfulness.” New birth is a daily certainty. There is proof, but it is not a thing of the past. Trusting Jesus Christ as our personal Savior is a present practice. It is a daily occurrence. Adrian Rogers says, “If you’re born twice, that which is born from above will go endless, dateless, timeless, measureless with the Lord.” Apply it to your life Have you been born again? Have you understood the reason for new birth? Experienced a change in character? Have you seen faith take its full effect in you?

Aug 13, 2025

Three Things That You Cannot Learn in School

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: John 16:8 There are some things that no pastor or Bible teacher can teach you; they can only be imparted by the Holy Spirit. By our own nature, we can be stunningly ignorant. There are three things you cannot learn in school, that only the Holy Spirit can teach you. First, is the conception of sin. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” We are sinners by nature. The problem comes from within, not primarily because of what we do, but because of what we are. Our nature is a poisoned well. Our sins are the poisoned water that comes out of that well. And perhaps our worst sin is not believing in Jesus Christ. Unbelief is the parent sin, out of which all other sins grow. Adrian Rogers says, “A courtroom may convict you of crimes; conscience will convict you of wrongdoing, but only the Holy Spirit of God will truly convict you of sin.” The second truth only the Holy Spirit can teach is the completion of salvation. Man is ignorant concerning both sin and righteousness. The Holy Spirit of God teaches us that our only hope is Jesus Christ. And when you receive Jesus Christ and His righteousness, He deals with what we are. Christians are not just reformed, nicer people; they have received a new nature as a result of a “new birth.” He changes what we are and then He forgives what we’ve done. He also gives us what we need, which is righteousness. Adrian Rogers says, “He took our sin that we might take His righteousness. You’re as righteous as Jesus Christ because you have His righteousness.” Lastly, the Holy Spirit teaches us the truth concerning judgment. Only the Holy Spirit can teach us that Satan’s cause is a lost cause. There’s no contest out there: truth is mightier than error, love is stronger than hate, and holiness is higher than sin. And our Lord has won the victory. Apply it to your life Have you learned these three things you cannot learn in school? Let the Holy Spirit minister to you and impart these things in your heart.

Aug 11, 2025

My Heart--God's Home

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 6:19 Where does God live? As we study the Bible, it seems God doesn’t seem to stay put…until recently. God’s first house was Adam. Adam was to be a royal residence: designed with a body, soul, and spirit. When Adam sinned against God, he desecrated his spirit; therefore, our very Holy God was forced to move out. God’s second house was the temple. God built a temple for His people in the Old Testament, to teach colossal lessons of holiness, sacrifice, and fellowship. We recognize that this house was desecrated in Matthew 21:13 when Jesus said: “And He said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer, but you’ve made it a den of thieves.” God will not live in a dirty house; Matthew 23:38, says, “Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.” And in Matthew 24, Jesus correctly prophesies the destruction of the temple. God’s third house was Jesus Christ, Himself. Jesus was a house designed; the second Adam: body, soul, and spirit, yet totally perfect. He became a house desecrated when He willingly took all the sins of this world upon Himself. Matthew 27:46 says, “About the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying… My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken Me?” He was a house, desolated. As a result, Jesus became a house destroyed. But because of His great love, our hearts have become God’s home. God lives in us, and God is never moving out. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says, “What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which you have of God, and ye are not your own? For you’re bought with a price, therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” Adrian Rogers preaches, “Being saved is getting God back in your heart, helping you to understand that you are now a temple of the Holy Ghost.” God dwells in our hearts by faith, through salvation, security, and sanctification. Because of Calvary’s sacrifice, no sin can jeopardize God’s residence in our hearts. Apply it to your life We are temples of God. Every day is a holy day. Every place is a sacred place.Considering your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost of God, how are you living differently? Are there sins you need to repent of?

Aug 7, 2025

How to Be Absolutely Sure

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 John 5:5-13 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. (See Romans 3:23.) and without the shedding of blood, there’s no remission of sin. 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 also of our sanctification. He saves us from wrath and makes us pure. Adrian Rogers says, “I wouldn’t give half a hallelujah for the 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 who bears witness, because the Spirit is truth" (1 John 5:6). 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 who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself" (1 John 5:10). 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, 202536 min

The Church Triumphant

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 16:13 In Matthew 16:13-20, Simon Peter declares Jesus is the Messiah they’ve long waited for. As a result of his bold faith, Jesus changed his name to Peter (which means “rock”). Jesus then declared He would build His church upon Himself. This radical exchange reveals several things about the church triumphant. First, we learn that it relies on personal conviction from Jesus, Himself. Jesus asks, “Who do you say I am?” (Matt. 13:15) We must personally believe in Jesus Christ; not by our mind or intellect, but by divine revelation. After conviction from God comes confession: Simon Peter answered, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (v. 16) A powerful conversion follows: “That thou art Peter...” (v. 18) And as a result, the church is sovereignly constructed. Jesus said, “...upon this rock I will build my church...” (v. 18) Jesus is the architect, the builder, and the very foundation of the church. He is the one that builds it out of us, living stones (1 Peter 2:5), a group of people redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Notice the singular commission of the church. In verse 19, Jesus said, “And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Understand what this actually means: Jesus is saying that Heaven’s will will be done on earth when you use the keys of the kingdom, which is the truth of the Gospel. Our unchanging responsibility as the church triumphant is to win souls to Jesus Christ. “...and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (v. 18) Remember: Hell is not on the offense and the church on the defense. What Jesus is saying is the very gates of hell, the very domain of the dead, cannot stop the church of the Lord Jesus Christ. Adrian Rogers says, “If you say that you’re saved, you will love the church and attend the church. If you say you love Jesus Christ, you will defend, commend, and extend the church.” Apply it to your life The profound insight from Matthew 16 can be simplified into two practical instructions for us today: be saved, and be an active member of your church.

Aug 1, 2025

How to Be the Father of a Wise Child

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 1:20-22 These days, our nation is in troubled waters, and the problem is rooted in fathers who fail to accept their responsibility. The Book of Proverbs reveals how to be the father of a wise child. Proverbs 1:22 says, “How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? For scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge.” When our children are young, they are simple, ignorant, and careless, which is to be expected. However, some children are never taught to grow in wisdom and remain simple in their adulthood. They may have knowledge, but they lack spiritual wisdom and understanding. They are easily led into error, ready to believe anything. If a child remains naive and has not been led by his father, he becomes a scorner. He defies instruction and despises the good and godly. Because of this, he is destined for destruction. The scorner’s very hard to reach, but there is still hope for him. If the scorner is not reclaimed, he becomes a fool; the scorner is insolent, but the fool is immovable. The fool rejects wisdom, ridicules righteousness, and rejoices in iniquity. His moral sense has been so perverted, he thinks good is evil and evil is good. As parents, there are four things we must keep in mind in order to raise wise children. First, we need to expound truth to our children; saturate them in the Proverbs, emblazon the Ten Commandments into their consciousness, teach them the Beatitudes, that they might learn these simple, basic truths. Second, expose sin: children need to see the repercussions of sin to understand their weight. We must pull away the veil and show them the ugly truth of sin and its consequences. We must also expel scorners, as Proverbs 13:20 instructs, “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” We cannot let our young, impressionable children hang around scorners and fools; we must be firm with who we allow them to be friends with. Finally, we must express love; be gentle fathers, transparent and available. Adrian Rogers says, “Words can hurt your children more than an open hand and a slap in the face. Love your children and delight in them.” Apply it to your life Are you raising your children to be wise or foolish? Remember your instructions from Proverbs: expound truth, expose sin, expel scorners, and express love.

Jul 30, 202535 min

Raising Kids That Count

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 1:7-9 Psalm 112:2 says, “His descendants will be mighty on earth; the generation of the upright will be blessed.” As parents, our chief desire for our children should be that they love God and honor Him with their lives. The Book of Proverbs is full of wisdom for those who want to raise kids that count in the cause of Christ. We must first give them an example. “My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother…” (Proverbs 1:8). Our children will learn more from our lifestyle than they will learn from our words. Good character is not so much taught as it is caught; it must be demonstrated through us. Second, we should give our children unconditional love, regardless of their misbehavior. This doesn’t mean we give them everything they want. True love is not giving children what they want, but rather, what they need. We must give our children constant encouragement.There’s a difference between praise and encouragement. Praise focuses on the accomplishments of the child, while encouragement focuses on the actual child. Our children need to know they are not a sum of their achievements, and that we love them for who they are. We must also give them wise instruction. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” When we teach our children Scripture, it should be joined with training, so they can learn how to apply it for themselves when they are grown. We should also give them reasonable restrictions.Adrian Rogers says, “Limitations don’t bind the child; really they set him free.” When we establish restrictions, our children will naturally push against them. If the restrictions give, our children will lack confidence in themselves. This is the reason so many children are conquered by the things of this world. We must also give them a listening ear. Be ready when they’re ready to talk, and make time for it. Finally, give them a happy environment. Our homes should be full of laughter, fun, joy, and silliness. Adrian Rogers says, “A vegetable plate is better than a steak dinner if you have love, joy, and happiness.” Apply it to your life If you want to raise kids that count for the cause of Christ, remember to be firm, fair, and fun.

Jul 28, 202533 min

How to Raise Godly Children

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

Jul 24, 202533 min

How to Make a Home Beautiful

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Titus 2:3-5 God is in favor of beautiful homes; yet these days, our families face many enemies that threaten to drain us of our splendor. The key to a beautiful home is the wife and mother. Titus 2 shows us what it means to be a godly mother and how to make a home beautiful. “…the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things…” (Titus 2:3). This passage first addresses the legacy the godly woman is to leave. She teaches younger women how to be homemakers and how to instill values in their own families by example. She has the perfume of God in her life, marked by holiness, godly in her speech. She is not to be a false accuser, scandalmonger, or slanderer, nor does she indulge in addictive behaviors. Secondly, this passage tells of the love the godly woman is to learn. “...that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children…” (Titus 2:4). Some look at children as burdens rather than blessings. Older women are instructed to teach the younger women how to love their families. Adrian Rogers says, “Being a homemaker is not easy, not glamorous, but there is no higher calling. Fathers have influence on their children, but mothers make the greatest impression.” Finally, this passage teaches us the lifestyle the godly woman is to live. “...to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed” (Titus 2:5). Here are some descriptions regarding a godly woman: -Discreet: She is sober-minded, sensible, using good judgment in her shopping, bookkeeping, decorating, and physical culture.-Chaste: She is pure and sexually moral.-Homemakers: A woman’s primary responsibility is to keep the home.-Good: She is kind-hearted.-Obedient to her husband: Submission is not subjugation; wives are instructed to submit to their husbands’ loving leadership in the home. Adrian Rogers says, “When is a train more free: on the train tracks or running through the meadow? When you get on God’s plan and begin to obey the Word, you’ll find that God will give you incredible liberty.” Apply it to your life These verses have inspired us to make a home beautiful and adorn the doctrine of God. A woman is to learn these three things: The legacy she is to leave, the love she’s to learn and the lifestyle she is to live.

Jul 22, 202533 min

How to Be the Child of a Happy Mother

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Exodus 20:12 Adrian Rogers says, “Our parents are the first people we meet; if we cannot learn to love and respect our parents, then it’s obvious we cannot learn to love and respect anyone else.” Exodus 20:12 says, “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.” Honoring our parents means taking them seriously, to revere and respect them. Following God’s command to honor our parents is how we can be children of happy mothers. First, we honor them by the lives we live; we do this by obeying them when we are young. Disobedience is a grave, harmful sin; it is not a weakness, it is a wickedness. Disobedience invites the sure judgment of God. On the contrary, through obedience, we learn character and self-control; we receive God’s blessing and protection. Children are extensions of their parents; when they see their child doing something godly and worthy, it gives parents joy. Second, we honor our parents by the load we lift; we must help them, especially when they get older and need our care. In our society, people sometimes fail to care for their older parents. We must remember that our parents loved us in spite of our faults; we must love them in spite of their faults. Third, we should honor our parents by the lessons we learn. Our parents have the advantage of being further down the road of life than us. It would be wise to listen to the ones who love us and have our best interest in mind. Last of all, we honor our parents by the love we lavish upon them. We must remember what we owe them; they gave us life, their blood flows through our veins. Adrian Rogers says, “I believe that the closest thing on this Earth to the love of God is the love of parents for their children.” We are to return that love to them. When we show respect, express gratitude, heed their counsel, and live lives that honor them, we become children of a happy Heavenly Father. Apply it to your life Do you obey and honor our Heavenly Father, showing respect, gratitude, and love? If your parents are living, show love and respect today; if your parents have passed, give them honor and thank God for their memory.

Jul 21, 2025

Faith for the Family

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Hebrews 11:23-27 It takes a family to raise a child, and it takes faith to make a family. The most powerful and influential people on Earth are mothers and fathers of faith. Hebrews 11 tells the prophet Moses’ divine origin story, which would not have existed if not for his parents, Amram and Jochebed. “By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment” (Hebrews 11:23). As we learn the importance of faith for the family, there are three principles to learn from these parents' indispensable faith. First, we note faith’s vision.Moses’ parents recognized that he was the special handiwork of God. It is our responsibility to see our children as specific, individual creations of God, and raise them accordingly. Second, we recognize faith’s valor. Amram and Jochebed hid Moses for three months because the King had commanded that baby boys be killed. By faith, they recognized this physical conflict as a spiritual conflict between the gods of Egypt and Almighty God, and “they were not afraid…” In these treacherous days, raising children is a spiritual battle and our only hope is a solid faith in Jesus Christ. Third, we see faith’s venture. Moses’ parents did not have a spirit of fatalism; rather, they did their part to protect their son, trusting God to do the rest. When facing challenges, we must do all we can do with a spirit of optimism. If it is God’s will, we can trust that He will move heaven and earth for our children. Finally, Amram and Jochebed displayed faith’s victory. Hebrews 11 notes that because Moses’ values were established in him by his parents, he valued his faith more than all the riches of Egypt. Moses embraced the virtues of knowing Christ eternally, and rejected the vices of this world, refusing to be called Pharaoh’s son. (See Hebrews 11:24.) Adrian Rogers says, “There are a lot of pressures on our kids today, and we’d better be certain they have something on the inside.” Apply it to your lifeAre you raising your children by faith? When posed with a choice, Moses evaluated the virtues his parents established in him in his youth. This led to a determination to follow God and eliminate the things of this world. It began with Amram and Jochebed, just like it begins with you.

Jul 17, 202532 min

The Sad Case of Vanishing Values

Sermon Overview Scripture Reference: Judges 17:1-6 Our nation is in a battle for values; the morals and ethics that made this nation great are eroding before us. Judges 17 shares an eerily similar sad case of vanishing values. “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6). As a result, there were families without foundations. In America today, we are drowning in religion, but none of it is rooted in biblical truth. Our families are morally and spiritually bankrupt. The ethical standard we’ve liberated ourselves from is what’s held society together. There was also during the time of Judges a lack of principle in their pastors. Those who preach the Gospel must live the Gospel, and there is an especially high standard for those in vocational ministry. John 10:12 warns, “But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees...” Third, values vanish when the government separates itself from God. Our generation wants what belongs to somebody else; we believe we have the right to take what doesn’t belong to us. We are motivated by greed, materialism, and selfishness. We are biblically instructed to take care of those who cannot take care of themselves. But the Bible is also against the misappropriation of other people’s goods through covetousness and dissatisfaction. Adrian Rogers says, “The Bible teaches that we are to worship God, love people, and use things. But what we do is worship things, use people, and forget God.” Romans 1 gives clear warning to the nation whose values begin to vanish. Substituting science for God, practicing idolatry, and developing uncontrollable lusts of the flesh will lead to a death of conscience. The mind becomes morally useless, as every man does that which is right in his own mind. We must know what the Bible says about values, be active members of a Bible-believing church, and pray for our nation. Apply it to your life We are in desperate need of a moral and spiritual revival. Begin by building your family on biblical values; get plugged into the ministry of a God-appointed church and pray for our nation.

Jul 15, 2025

The High Cost of Low Living

Sermon Overview Scripture Reference: Judges 13:24 Judges 13-16 tells the story of Samson, a Nazarite who was set aside by God for a purpose; He had been anointed with tremendous supernatural strength through the Holy Spirit. However, Samson was a bundle of contradictions. His story is not ultimately about his physical, mental, and spiritual strength; rather, it is about the high cost of low living. Samson’s sin meant he dishonored his parents. Samson’s parents were godly people; Samson fell into the wrong company and decided to marry a pagan girl despite his parents’ disapproval. Marrying someone who is not of the same faith almost always leads to disagreement, division, and confused children. Samson’s parents wanted more for him, but he settled for less. Samson also deserted his promise. (See Judges 14:5.) As he hung around the wrong crowd, he was hardened more and more by sin, forgetting his vow as a Nazarite. He also distorted his purpose. Samson’s strength was given to him to one day deliver Israel from the Philistines. Instead, he picked shallow fights with them, teasing his enemies and provoking them to anger. Samson defiled his purity. He wasted time with harlots without any conviction. (See Judges 14:16.) He also diluted his power. After breaking every other Nazarite vow up until this point, his uncut hair was the last vow. One prostitute, Deliliah, persistently begged to know the secret of his strength. When he told her, she relayed his secret to his enemies. Samson disgraced his profession. They cut his hair while he slept and his power was gone when he woke. The Spirit was gone from him; they blinded him and bound him. His series of small sins led to this tragic consequence. Finally, he diminished his potential. Now a spectacle in a Philistine temple, Samson repents of his sins and prays for strength one last time. God grants him enough of it to push the pillars over to kill the Philistines present, but Samson died with them. By God’s sovereignty, Samson’s purpose was fulfilled, yet he could have been used for so much more. God’s mercy is new every day. Adrian Rogers says, “While a child of God may not lose his salvation, he has so much to lose if he sins.” Apply it to your life Don’t play lightly with sin. Adrian Rogers says, “Treat sin like sin would treat you. Sin will have no mercy on you; don't have mercy on your sin.”

Jul 11, 2025

Men of Strength

Sermon Overview Scripture Reference: Judges 11 There is a great and present need for men of character, integrity, and strength. Judges 11 tells the story of Jephthah, a mighty man of valor, who is an inspiration for all who want to be men and women of strength. First, he was a man of character in the face of difficulty: “Now Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty man of valor, but he was the son of a harlot; and Gilead begot Jephthah” (Judges 11:1). Jephthah’s undesirable origin as a harlot’s son meant he did not have any sort of upper hand in life, yet he rose to the occasion. We must become unshackled by our pasts and quit making excuses for sin. When we stop blaming our circumstances, we will finally rise to be what we ought to be. Adrian Rogers says, “The Bible teaches that guilt is real, that we are responsible; the Bible also teaches that grace is wonderful and forgiveness is free and full.” Jephthah also exhibited confidence in the face of danger. Assigned commander of the Israelite army, Jephthah was not fazed by his foes or fettered by his fear, because his confidence was in God. Before the battle ever began, Jephthah prayed to the Lord and asked for strength. (See Judges 11:11.) It was not a last resort, rather, a first thought. Finally, we see Jephthah’s commitment in the face of disappointment. Judges 11:29-33 describes the vow Jephthah made to God, that if God gave them victory, Jephthah would devote or sacrifice the first thing to meet him upon his arrival home. God gave him the victory; when he returned home, his daughter was the first one out to greet him. The Bible condemns human sacrifice. (Deuteronomy 12:31.) The Spirit of God would never lead Jephthah to contradict the Word of God. Rather, Jephthah devoted his virgin daughter to never marry and always serve the Lord. Jephthah kept his word, though it meant his lineage would end with her. Any righteous or holy vow he makes, a man of strength keeps it no matter the cost. Apply it to your life If Jephthah’s story tells us anything, it is how crucial it is to be people of prayer. Focus on your prayer life today. Men of strength are men of faith; and it is impossible to have faith if you are not a man of prayer.

Jul 9, 2025

Thorns In a Nation's Side

Sermon Overview Scripture Reference: Judges 9:8-15 The crisis of our nation concerns leadership. We are in desperate need of good, godly leadership. Judges 9:8-15 tells the story of a pitiful politician and a nation in disarray. This passage addresses the three thorns in a nation’s side, and the way to righteous leadership. The first thorn is the apostasy of an unthankful people. In Judges 8, God brought confusion into the camps of Israel’s enemies and gave His people a mighty victory. Yet, just one chapter later, the Israelites had already forgotten Him and turned to other gods. (See Judges 8:33.) This is more than just an issue of immorality—it is apostasy. This blatant act of turning from God is still happening today. Profanity is normalized and our children are desensitized; nothing shocks us anymore. Sin is socially acceptable, and godliness is stigmatized. The fixed standard of morality is long gone; it is only going to get filthier. The second thorn is the arrogance of an ungodly leader. In Judges 9, Abimelech rises with an unholy ambition to lead Israel. He builds a coalition, buys his constituents, and brutalizes his competition. His government was built on blood. However, he also had himself inaugurated with a show of religion. He tried to associate himself with godly things to fool others. There are some politicians who follow this pattern, who would build their campaigns on deception. Abimelech’s charade was accomplished through the apathy of uncommitted bystanders, which is the third thorn of the nation. As Edmond Burke says, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” When we buy into the niceties and luxuries of the sweet-talking politicians, we will find it difficult to root out the brambles of their unmet responsibilities. We must examine our leaders’ intentions with thought and care. Despite the despair of these passages, there was hope for Israel, just like there is hope for us. Adrian Rogers says, “The Book of Judges is not just what God has said; it is what God is saying.” God would rather forgive than judge. Even though our national sins are egregious, He is still a God of mercy; we must never lose hope for revival and restoration in our nation. Apply it to your life Pray for revival in our nation today, beginning with you; pray for God to raise up leaders who live to serve Him.

Jul 8, 2025

Four Principles of Victory

Sermon Overview Scripture Reference: Judges 6:1-22 In Judges 6, Israel had forgotten God and the victory He had already given them. As a result, the nation was intimidated and impoverished by an oppressive enemy; the people’s shame was severe and continuous. Our nation suffers shame of its own. We’ve traded authority for relativism, truth for pragmatism. We’ve traded reason for feeling, convictions for opinion. We’ve done away with the fixed standard of right and wrong. Everyone does what is right in his own eyes. But God raised up an unlikely hero, Gideon, to fight for His people. And as our nation begins to fall into the same trap, we must recognize the four principles of victory in Gideon’s life, that we may be used like him. First, there was the principle of vision. Gideon had a vision of the living God. (See Judges 6:11.) Gideon lived in defeat and fear until he took his eyes from the enemy and fixed them on God instead. We have something far better than Gideon had: the Word of God and the Holy Spirit abiding in us. And there is no excuse for us not to have an encounter with the living God. Second, there was the principle of valor. Gideon was a man of valor, not because he felt brave in and of himself. Rather, God took this fearful man and transformed him with His power, enriched him with love, and enlightened him with a sound mind. Third, Gideon had the principle of vigilance. After dismissing those who were afraid to fight, God tested Gideon’s army further to see which soldiers would be careless and who would remain vigilant. (See Judges 7.) We don’t have to be afraid of our adversary, but we do have to watch, pray, and never let our guard down. Finally, Gideon had the principle of vitality. God’s plan is to take ordinary people and do something incredible through them. Adrian Rogers says, “It’s not your scholarship, it’s your relationship. It’s not your ability, it’s your availability. It’s not your fame, it’s your faith. It’s not who you are, it’s whose you are.” Apply it to your life How do we win the victory? Through boldness: The God that was with Gideon is the God that will be with us. By brokenness: God never really uses anything until He first breaks it. With brightness: Our commission as men and women of God is to let our light shine in a sinful, dark world.

Jul 4, 2025

Sin Cannot Win and Faith Cannot Fail

Sermon Overview Scripture Reference: Judges 4:1-3 The Book of Judges tells us all about Israel’s cycle of sin—sinning against God, suffering for it, asking God for deliverance, and receiving it. But God would rather bless than judge; He is a God of mercy who desires to help us in our distress. Adrian Rogers says, “Don’t ever get the idea that you can sin successfully. Don’t ever get the idea that you can trust in God in vain. Sin can’t win and faith can’t fail.” In Judges 4, we see this in action, as God used the faith of Deborah and Barak to deliver all of Israel from her wicked enemy, Sisera. First, we identify the woman God chose. Deborah, a judge and prophetess in Israel, was a godly woman who used her gifting and wisdom to minister to Barak. God still uses women like Deborah to use their gifts and talents in ministry. Second, we see the warrior God called. There was a battle to be fought to deliver the Israelites from their oppressors. God chose Barak to lead the charge, because his faith was rooted in the God of Israel and he lived as he believed. Third, we recognize the wonder God caused. Judges 4:14 says, “Then Deborah said to Barak, ‘Up! For this is the day in which the Lord has delivered Sisera into your hand. Has not the Lord gone out before you?’ So Barak went down from Mount Tabor with ten thousand men following him.” Barak and his army did not stand a chance against the Canaanites’ flashy weaponry and 900 iron chariots. But the fight was fixed, for the stars themselves fought the battle. (See Judges 5:20.) Before the battle began, God sent a rainstorm to soften the ground. This rendered the chariots useless and weighed down the Canaanites’ heavy armor. Adrian Rogers says, “God lined the stars up behind Barak. God lined the whole Universe behind him. The whole Universe is against the man who is against God. The whole Universe is behind the man who’s for God.” When we love and serve God, God is on our side and programs us for victory. Apply it to your life Every day, we face battles even more real than the one on Mount Tabor. As we face spiritual warfare and principalities and powers of darkness, we must act as men and women of faith.

Jul 3, 2025

Bring Back the Glory

Sermon Overview Scripture Reference: Judges 1:1-2 The Book of Judges tells the story of how God blessed the nation of Israel, and how Israel then lost her glory. But, despite its darkness, this book holds out hope that God will bless the nation again. Judges 1 offers three takeaways, that we might bring back the glory of our own nation. “Now after the death of Joshua it came to pass that the children of Israel asked the Lord, saying, ‘Who shall be first to go up for us against the Canaanites to fight against them?’ And the Lord said, ‘Judah shall go up. Indeed I have delivered the land into his hand’” (Judges 1:1-2). First, there was a glorious conquest. God gave the land to Israel; He gave the people a spiritual heritage. Though their histories diverge, there are striking parallels between Israel and America. God blessed America from the beginning; it is a country with a faith heritage and history. Yet, like Israel, there were days of gradual compromise. God gave Israel victory, but the next generation forgot it. God told the Israelites to drive the wicked Canaanites out of the land. They did not do it, because of their fear, favor, and eventual fellowship with their former enemies. We are facing a similar disheartening truth, that we have forgotten what God has done in our country. Long gone are the days of moral absolutes—rather, we live in a day of moral ambivalence. Whether it be because of fear, favor, or fellowship, we’ve kept destructive sins around, and allowed them to influence us. Adrian Rogers says, “Sin will take you further than you want to go, it’ll take you longer than you want to stay, and it will cost you more than you want to pay.” Finally, there were grim consequences. Judges 2:3-4 tells us that God gave them over to their sin. He didn’t have to judge them—He simply let them have their own way; they lost His protection. Likewise, the sins of our nation have cost America her protection. But God would rather forgive than judge. He would rather save than condemn. There is hope for America. The God who took care of Israel so long ago can do the same for America today. Apply it to your life Pray for revival in America, that through repentance and obedience, we would bring back the glory of a nation that serves God. Have faith in Him today.

Jul 1, 2025

The Power of Effectual Prayer

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Romans 11:36 Romans 11:36 says, “For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things, to whom be the glory forever.” God is the producer, preserver, and purpose of creation. Everything starts with God, operates through God, and returns back to God. This divine triangle is exemplified in our salvation. God first loved us and brought us to Himself through Jesus Christ. We live the Christian life through the power He gives, and one day we are going back to Him. This divine triangle is exemplified through sanctification. We receive the Holy Spirit from God and are continually sanctified to become more like God. It’s also exemplified through stewardship. We receive blessings from God to bless others, for the purpose of bringing glory to God. Romans 11:36 reveals three transformational truths about the power of effectual prayer. First, the origin of all effectual prayer roots in the purposes of God. God gives us the privilege of working together with Him through prayer. Prayer is also the way God disciples us; it is how He works on us. Adrian Rogers says, “Prayer is not bending God’s will to our will. Prayer is finding the will of God and getting in on it.” Second, the operation of prayer relies on the power of God. Our old nature does not want to pray. It is God who gives us the desire and power to pray. God also gives us the direction for praying. Prayer gives us insight on what to ask for and how to use what we’ve been given. Finally, the objective of prayer results in the praise of God. Adrian Rogers says, “Thanksgiving enjoys the gift, but praise enjoys the Giver.” Praise and thanksgiving complete the triangle of prayer. Prayer goes into God’s presence to carry something away, but praise goes into God’s presence to remain there forever. Apply it to your life Each time you prepare to pray in the name of Jesus, consider these questions:-Has God put this request in my heart, through the written Word or through His Spirit?-Am I now praying in the energy of the Spirit rather than the energy of the flesh? -Is the desire of my heart that God would be glorified?

Jun 30, 202528 min

How To Heal Broken Relationships

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 18:15 Broken relationships in the church are a very painful problem that disgraces the Father and discourages the Bride of Christ. Adrian Rogers says, “There is nothing worse than a church without harmony and there is nothing better than a church with harmony.” In Matthew 18, Jesus explains how to heal broken relationships. “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone...” (Matthew 18:15). First, we must consider our relationship with the person who has sinned against us. If he is a brother in Christ, we are members of the same body; harming him harms us. If he is lost, he needs our pity and prayers all the more; regardless, he is to be loved no matter what. Next, we must remember our responsibility to make it right between us. Galatians 6:1 says, “...if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.” We have to ask ourselves: are we sinning in a similar way? Have we been praying for that person and setting a good example? Once we have the proper perspective, we must seek out the biblical procedure of restoration. We don’t have the luxury of waiting for our trespasser to come to us; we go to him lovingly, privately, and humbly. If there is an opportunity for restoration, forgive him freely, fully, and finally. If there is no restoration, come back with fellow brothers or sisters in the faith. If he still refuses to listen, go before the church, as Matthew 18:17 instructs: “And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.” Excommunication is a heartbreaking last resort reserved only for those who are stubborn in their own ways, who will not hear the brother, the committee, or the church that has tried to speak truth in love. It is important that we love the unrepentant offender, but we do not let him poison the fellowship. We cannot let him hurt and distort the cause of Christ. Apply it to your life If someone has sinned against you, don’t make it a matter of gossip; go to the individual lovingly, humbly, and gently, after first considering yourself.

Jun 26, 202532 min

How to Answer a Skeptic

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Peter 3 As Christians, we are instructed to keep the faith and give it away. We must be ready to give an account for what makes us different. We must learn how to answer a skeptic. 1 Peter 3:15 says, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear…” There are four basic propositions that can help us when giving an account for our faith. First, forego the folly of fools. Foolishness isn’t a lack of knowledge, rather it is evidence of moral depravity. A fool is not an honest doubter, he is simply hostile toward the truth. When someone shows himself to be a fool, we should not argue with him; we should tell him what God says and go our way. Second, we need to learn the limits of logic. To give a defense for our faith does not mean to apologize; it means to give an answer as one would give in a court of law. We know creation’s complex design speaks of God’s existence, as does the moral law of the universe. But we must keep in mind that while logic is a very valuable tool, it can only take us so far in answering a skeptic. We must also remember the resource of revelation. If we want to know God, He must reveal Himself to us. 2 Peter 1:19 says, “And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts…” God knows we need help understanding Scripture, so the Holy Spirit shines it into our dark hearts, giving us the light to see.Adrian Rogers says, “The Holy Spirit takes the curtain of your skepticism and He pulls it aside, pins it with a star of hope, and floods your heart with Gospel light.” Finally, fortify the force of faith. We are witnesses of His existence because of what He has done in our lives. Apply it to your life Are you prepared to give an answer for the hope in you? When Jesus is real to us and is sanctified in our hearts, we can answer skeptics with meekness and fear.

Jun 25, 202533 min

How to Spot a Counterfeit

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Peter 2:1 In the Bible, there is no greater crime than being a false prophet. It’s bad to tell a lie and it’s worse to teach a lie; but it is evil to teach a lie about God. Adrian Rogers says, “Don’t let false teachers take you by surprise; when you look for the devil, never fail to look in the pulpit.” We must learn how to spot a counterfeit teacher. 2 Peter 2:1 says, “But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.” Scripture tells us that false teachers are among us and warns us of the dangers of their doctrine. We can identify counterfeits by their message. There are five tests we should run in our minds as we listen to a preacher: -Source Test: What is the basis of his teaching?-Savior Test: Does he believe that Jesus Christ is the Messiah?-Subject Test: Is the primary source of his teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ?-Salvation Test: Does he teach salvation by grace or does he try to mix works or baptism or anything else into salvation?-Sanctification Test: Does he teach, and endeavor to live, a holy life?We can also identify false teachers by their methods. 2 Peter 2:2-3 says, “And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber.” Good counterfeiters will lay false teaching alongside good teaching in order to confuse their listeners. Their words are feigned, like plastic; they are malleable and easy to contort. You can also spot a counterfeiter by his motive, which is to manipulate his people for his own profit or gain. The desperate need in these last days is authentic biblical teaching; God will not spare the false prophet. Apply it to your life Remember this advice from Adrian Rogers: “The world is full of counterfeits; make sure you have the real thing. There are some counterfeit Christians, but don’t you let that keep you away from Jesus. Jesus is real, salvation is real and you can be real if you’ll repent of your sin and trust Him.”

Jun 23, 202541 min

How To Be A Fully Committed Disciple Of Jesus Christ

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Luke 14:25-35 It costs to serve Jesus Christ; we must be prepared to pay the price. Many will try to water down the Gospel in an attempt to gain more followers, but Jesus is not looking for easy followers; He wants fully committed disciples. Jesus wants disciples who will worship at any cost. Luke 14:27 says, “And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.”Jesus must come before personal relationships and reputations. His disciples must prioritize Him over their families and loved ones, and even before themselves. He must come before personal realization. The decision to follow Jesus was the last independent decision any Christian ever made; our lives now belong to Jesus. Second, Jesus wants disciples who will work at any cost. “For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it…” (Luke 14:28). Jesus calls us to build our lives according to His blueprints, spiritually conceived through prayer. We cannot look for a cheap, easy, lazy way to build our lives for Christ. We must count the cost, and steadfastly work to completion. Third, fully committed disciples will war at any cost. Adrian Rogers says, “When I follow the Lord Jesus Christ, I follow Him into battle.” There is no such thing as neutrality in this spiritual warfare. Though we are outnumbered, we cannot be cowards or compromisers. Nor can we be cautious; we must go into the battle with all of our hearts and souls. Finally, Jesus wants disciples who will witness at any cost. “Salt is good; but if the salt has lost its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is neither fit for the land nor for the dunghill, but men throw it out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Luke 14:34-35)!Salt preserves, flavors, and heals; likewise, we are called to preserve truth and to have a zest about our lives that heals this sick world. But salt also burns and penetrates; it is an irritant that permeates everything it touches. We cannot fear our nature to irritate this corrupt world and permeate Jesus Christ into everything we touch. Apply it to your life Are you a fully committed disciple of Jesus Christ? Are you willing to pay the cost of worship, work, war, and witness?

Jun 20, 202530 min

The Soul Winner's Six Mighty Motivations

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Corinthians 5 Our achievements in life are impelled by the drive behind them. If we want to be soul winners for the cause of Christ, the apostle Paul offers six mighty motivations in 2 Corinthians 5. First, we see the soul winner’s compulsion: “Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well-pleasing to Him…” (2 Corinthians 5:9). Our goal is to please God; if we are not bringing souls to Christ, we are not acceptable to God. We also recognize our compensation: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:10). We will be compensated for our soul-winning work at the judgment seat of Christ. And whatever reward He gives us will never see corruption. Third, remember the soul winner’s conviction: “Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men...” (2 Corinthians 5:11). Paul reminds us of what it means for a soul to die unredeemed, destined for Hell; he understood the terror of the Lord. We are also motivated by our compassion: “For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you...” (2 Corinthians 5:13). Adrian Rogers says, “What motivates me is not my love for people; it is my love for Jesus. Yes, I love people, but the chief motivation of my life is His love for me and, therefore, His love through me.” We remember our confidence: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). As Christians, we are confident that when we lead a soul to Christ, he will become a new creature. Every person is a potential brother or sister in the faith. Finally, we read of the soul winner’s commission: “Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation…” (2 Corinthians 5:18). We are saved to bring others to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. We are ambassadors of the King of kings, appointed and anointed by God Himself. Apply it to your life Are you motivated, today, to win souls for Jesus Christ? Remember these six mighty motivations as you prayerfully and boldly share your faith.

Jun 18, 202533 min

How God Handles Hypocrites

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Romans 2:1-8, 16 In Romans 2, the Apostle Paul reveals how God handles hypocrites, specifically addressing those who were indignant at the sins of others, and indulgent in their own. “Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things…” (Romans 2:1). Hypocrites will be judged according to the truth, so there will be no disguise. Today, we see truth being exchanged for style and sacrificed for comfort. But no performance or pretense will fool God, as truth is His standard. Hypocrisy comes from within; a hypocritical heart believes that outward appearance is all that matters. If hypocrites can appear righteous, they believe they will be seen as righteous in the eyes of God. Adrian Rogers says, “God doesn’t look on the exterior; God looks at the heart.” Hypocrites also believe that if they do not have trouble, they are right with God. But we know our blessings are not merited by our behavior. God gives us blessings to bring us to Him, to lead us to repentance. Delayed judgment does not mean no judgment; God waits until the time is ripe before He judges, and we will not escape His judgment. Hypocrites will be judged according to their deeds, without distinction.As Christians, we are not saved by works, but we are judged by works. We will be held accountable for our actions and attitudes, as well as for our advantages. Finally, hypocrites will be judged according to the Gospel.“...in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel” (Romans 2:16). Adrian Rogers says, “If the Gospel does not save you, the Gospel will judge you. The same Jesus who wants to be your Savior will one day be your Judge if you do not allow Him to save you.” The Gospel is a two-edged sword that will either heal or slay. It reveals everything we try to repress and hide, and often, the judgment of the hypocrite is harsher than that of the heathen. Apply it to your life Knowing the dangers of hypocrisy, are there any areas in your life that you need to confess and repent of? Pray and ask God to examine your heart, so that you can identify your struggles and live authentically and truthfully.

Jun 16, 202535 min

Faith of Our Fathers

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Psalm 128 Perhaps the most difficult and profoundly rewarding role a man could ever commit to is being a good Dad. The faith of our fathers is what leads our families through the minefield of today’s world. Psalm 128 describes a faithful father in four ways. First, it is his character. If you fear God, you will walk in the way of God. Though we will inevitably make mistakes, we can be fathers who leave a legacy of integrity. “When you eat the labor of your hands, you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you.” (Psalm 128:2). Second, a godly father loves his companion—his faithful, fruitful wife.“Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the very heart of your house…” (Psalm 128:3a). If the wife is the vine, you, as a wise father, understand it is your job to take care of your wife’s love and needs, so she may meet the needs of your children and your household. Third, a godly father leads his children. “...your children like olive plants all around your table” (Psalm 128:3b). In the Bible, olives symbolize fruitfulness and righteousness. This verse is a beautiful picture of how a godly father’s righteousness is reproduced through his children. A good father learns consistency in discipline and cultivates his children through quality time. Finally, a godly father leaves a legacy. “The Lord bless you out of Zion, and may you see the good of Jerusalem all the days of your life. Yes, may you see your children’s children” (Psalm 128:5-6). A generation raised by strong, God-fearing fathers makes a strong nation. America will not be changed until our families are changed; and our families will not be changed until the fathers are changed. Adrian Rogers says, “You can’t do anything about your ancestors, but you can do something about your descendants.” As fathers, we have an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of our children, and our children’s children; let us not waste it. Apply it to your life Are you leading your family with character—do you love your wife and lead your children on the paths of righteousness? Consider the legacy you are leaving behind.

Jun 12, 2025

Making Friends Forever

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Proverbs 17:17 One of the greatest and deepest needs we have as human beings is friendship. We all long for someone who knows, loves, and accepts us—someone who understands our wants, needs, hurts, and fears. The Book of Proverbs is full of wisdom for making friends forever, and how to first be the friend we all need. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” There are certain marks of true friendship. A friend is someone who shares his or her strengths, blessings, and hope; a friend will share in hard times and in celebration; a friend loves at all times. A true friend is also someone who sharpens; Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” A good friend is the sharp edge of our lives, who encourages,challenges, and confronts us when necessary; true friends make us better people. And a friend is someone who sticks; Proverbs 28:14 says, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” There are some important things to remember when making friends: We make friends by being friends; it is wise to remember that people want to be accepted, acknowledged, and appreciated. We need to pay attention to people, become great listeners, and find something to compliment. People also want to be affirmed and assured; in this negative world, the most beautiful thing we can do is empathize with one another. When we build friendships, we must remember to maintain them. Adrian Rogers says, “You can have a lot of acquaintances, but genuine friends are costly. They cost time and effort; there is an investment; don’t have more friends than you can show yourself friendly to.” Finally, we must remember the ministry of a friendship. There are lost people in this world who need the love and friendship of Jesus Christ; as His Body, we have the responsibility of loving as He loved. Apply it to your life Are you in the ministry of making friends? If you are a leader, set the tone and the atmosphere; be approachable and real. As a church member, learn how to greet people and remember to be warm and welcoming to the people the Lord brings in.

Jun 11, 2025

How to Be a Good Friend

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Luke 10:25-37 In Luke 10:25-37, Jesus tells the story of a man receiving aid from his cultural enemy after falling among thieves. The parable of the Good Samaritan reveals the true meaning of being a good neighbor and teaches us how to be a good friend to those who are suffering all around us. First, this story is about criminal inhumanity. “‘A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead’...” (Luke 10:30). The traveler in this story is a picture of humanity going away from God, battered and robbed by the devil. We live in a hurting world of crushed hearts, bruised spirits, and emotional wounds. People need love; they need the relief of a friend who will care for their hurts. This story also reveals casual indifference. In Luke 10:31-32, two self-righteous men, a priest, and a Levite, pass by the wounded man. These men represent people who follow the rituals and rules of religion but do not have Jesus Christ. Jesus is teaching through this story that religion with its rituals and rules cannot save… only He can. Good Samaritan shows us that loving our neighbor means showing compassionate involvement. “But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion” (Luke 10:33). This compassion must be genuine and gracious; we don’t just wait until hurting people come to us; we go to them. Adrian Rogers says, “A person who has compassion sees people through the eyes of Christ.” This compassion is also gentle: “So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.” (Luke 10:34). In the Bible, oil is an emblem of the Holy Spirit, and wine is symbolic of the blood of Jesus Christ. Oil soothes and wine cleanses. As we have been cared for by Jesus Christ—who takes our place, carries us where we cannot go ourselves, and binds our wounds—we should care for others Apply it to your life There are so many around us walking around with unseen wounds. We must see them with compassion. Commit to sharing the love of Jesus today and be a good friend to someone in need.

Jun 10, 2025

Learning to Stand for Jesus

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 5:10-14 If we stand up for Jesus, we will be persecuted. The only way to escape it is to compromise—to conform to this world. Instead, we must decide now that we will learn to stand for Jesus, no matter what happens. Matthew 5:10 reveals, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Adrian Rogers says, “Persecution that you receive is the thermometer that registers your love and your courage for the Lord Jesus Christ.” The first reason we are persecuted is because of the life we show. Persecution means to divide; Christians are persecuted because we are different, distinct by our righteousness. The second reason we are persecuted is due to the lies we suffer. Jesus was crucified because of false witnesses; likewise, Christians will be blamed for things they have not done. But the main reason for our persecution is the Lord we serve. Jesus says, “for my sake.” (See Matthew 5:11.) The world hates Jesus Christ because He stands against the very things the world stands for: liquor, abortion, pornography, pride, racism, hatred, and selfishness. Jesus was an exposer of sin; He came to condemn sin and destroy the works of the devil. And as followers of Christ, whom He has called salt and light (irritants and exposers), we can expect to endure personal insult and physical intimidation. There will be social injustice coming from all sides: from the religious world, from the government, and even from our own families. But we can enlist our persecution for the glory of God. Because we are children of the King, we reign in life and can return good for evil. We must also rejoice in the Lord; we have been identified as followers of Christ, and associated with the Lord... what an honor! Finally, we should respond in love. We could be great witnesses if we respond to the hate of this world with the love it desperately needs. These are days of golden opportunity to stand up and share Christ with others; let us not waste them by living in fear of persecution. Apply it to your life Knowing the reasons for persecution and the results of it, what is your response? Are you willing to follow Jesus in a world that hates Him? When you are persecuted, rejoice in the Lord and respond in love.

Jun 9, 2025

How to Walk in the Spirit

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Colossians 2:10 In Jesus Christ, we are complete; we don’t have to look for anything else. Colossians 2:3 reminds us that all our treasure is hidden in Him, waiting for us to discover and appropriate it. We must learn how to walk in the Spirit. God the Holy Spirit wants to inhabit our human spirit, to speak to our minds, emotions, and wills. Colossians 2:6 says, “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him…” Notice how the Apostle Paul says to walk in the Spirit. We don’t just walk with the Spirit; the Holy Spirit must be the territory of our walk. Adrian Rogers says, “The circumference of our walk is the sphere of the Spirit.” We must make the decision to walk within the Spirit at all times. He will supply all our needs according to the riches of His glory. The Christian walk begins when we take the first step, which is receiving Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior. To live victoriously, we must walk in the Spirit one step at a time; once we begin, we never stop. When we walk in the Lord, we’re under new management. Our very character changes; our lives begin to manifest the life of the Lord Jesus Christ. He demands absolute control over our lives. To walk in the Spirit is to be like Jesus. Finally, the Christian life is a continual walk. Our “footsteps” are repentance and faith. These are not things we do once in order to get saved; we repent of our sins and put our faith in Jesus daily. Adrian Rogers says, “Repentance is turning from self; faith is turning to Jesus. And the more you turn from yourself and turn to the Lord Jesus Christ, the more real He will seem to you.” And the longer we walk with Him, the more we will realize the Holy Spirit’s control over our lives. We will be cured of our self-consciousness, greed, and competition, for we are complete in Him. Apply it to your life Is the life of the Lord Jesus Christ manifested in you? Is He the Lord of your life, the circumference of your walk? Are you taking steps of repentance and faith, turning from yourself, and turning to Jesus, every single day?

Jun 6, 2025

How to Have a Sure Word in Difficult Days

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Timothy 3:12-17 We are living in a dangerous time of apostasy; it is crucial that we put our faith in Scripture, our sure word in difficult days. 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…” The Bible is the very breath of God, fully inspired by Him. It is not a partial or progressive inspiration; it is full and complete. The Bible gives us instruction for righteousness. Because the Bible is inspired and instructive, it is instrumental in several aspects of our spiritual lives. First, the Scriptures are instrumental in salvation. Our friends are not saved by our philosophies, ideas, or testimonies. Rather, it is only by the saving grace of Jesus Christ, stated in Scripture. The Word of God must be shared with people in order for them to be saved. The Scriptures are also instrumental in our sanctification. This does not mean the Bible makes us sinless; rather, it makes us mature. Adrian Rogers says, “You’ll never be a strong, mature Christian until you get in the Word of God.” Third, the Scriptures are necessary for service. God does not send us into spiritual war unarmed; the Bible equips us for service, like soldiers in a battle. Our faith is not blind or superstitious; it is rooted in evidence. There is historical and scientific evidence in the Bible; it is an indestructible book that has lasted through the ages. It is meant to be treasured. Faith that is rooted in evidence goes beyond evidence. God is good to give us evidence, but there comes a time when we must go beyond evidence. Faith is more than an intellectual response to facts; it is a moral response to what God says through these facts. This is when faith then becomes its own best evidence. A life built up by the Bible is not easily shaken by difficulty; if we are on the right foundation, we can face any fearful thing life throws our way. Apply it to your life Adrian Rogers says, “If you are a fearful saint in these desperate days in which we live, get a bulldog grip on the Word of God because you’re going to need it.”

Jun 4, 2025

How to Build Stability in Your Life

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 2 Peter 1:1-11 We all obtain salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ. Some grow in grace and knowledge; they become strong, vibrant, and victorious in their faith. Others stumble and stagger, slip and fall. These are dangerous days in which our enemy has inspired confusion to divide God’s people and cause them to question their faith. But God wants us to be strong, stable, and steadfast. 2 Peter 1:1-11 shows us how to build stability into our lives. First, we must have a faith that knows. “Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord…” (2 Peter 1:2). Assurance is not a feeling; it does not come from intellectual knowledge about God. Assurance is the experiential knowledge that comes from being with God. Adrian Rogers says, “In the Christian life, there is nothing to earn but there is a lot to learn.” Through the knowledge of Jesus, we receive pardon for our sins. After our pardon comes peace with God, and after peace comes power. But we must remember, God has already given these things to us; we are not limited by facts, only our own minds. If we know God’s promises, we can hold onto them in times of deliverance. Second, we must have a faith that grows. “...giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge…” (2 Peter 1:5). If we have this precious faith, we will be diligent about our growth (see 2 Peter 3:18). If we are not growing, we will fall. The characteristics listed in 2 Peter 1:5-7 expand on one another. The first described is virtue, or moral excellence. This leads to practical knowledge, which leads to temperance (or self-control). Self-control will become patience, first in daily trials, then in persecution. And that will lead to God-likeness, which enables us to love one another. Finally, we must have a faith that shows. “For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful…” (2 Peter 1:8). As we begin to grow, we will no longer be barren, blind, or bewildered; instead, we’ll bear the fruit and have deep assurance that we are saved. This assurance is the key to stability in our faith Apply it to your life Do you have a knowledge of God and a growing faith? Do you bear the fruit of the Spirit for the world to see?

Jun 2, 2025

Bright Lights in a Dark World (2316)

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Peter 3:13-16 In the 1st Century, Christians were accused of subversion, of being an economic threat, and of condemning others. Their accounts are a clear warning of the days ahead for Christians of the 21st Century. In 1 Peter, we are instructed to be real, to be ready, and to be bright lights in a dark world. 1 Peter 3:13-14 says, “And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed…” There are six things we need to remember if we want to shine in these dark days. First, we must enthrone Christ as Lord: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts…” (1 Peter 3:15). Often we hear people say they’ve accepted Jesus as their Savior, but we cannot have what He gives unless we accept Him as Lord. Adrian Rogers says, “You’re not saved by the plan of salvation; you’re saved by the man of salvation and His name is Jesus.” Second, we must be ready with an answer: “<a href="http://...always" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...always</a> be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you...” (1 Peter 3:15). If we have truly been saved, there will be something about us that is unexplainable; we must be ready to give a defense for our faith. Third, we must practice genuine humility: “<a href="http://...with" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...with</a> meekness and fear…” (1 Peter 3:15). Meekness is not weakness, it is strength under control. In this context, fear is not trembling at what is happening around us; it speaks of holy reverence for Almighty God. We must also live a superior lifestyle: “<a href="http://...having" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...having</a> a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed” (1 Peter 3:16). We are called to be wise in our conduct and speech. We must also display genuine love. Our logic and our lifestyle have to go together—a full mind wedded with a loving heart. Finally, we must always hold onto hope; Jesus has met the deepest needs of our hearts, therefore we have hope. Apply it to your life These are the greatest days of evangelism in the history of the Christian church. In light of the current climate of this world, we should go out with banners unfurled and be bright lights in a dark world.

May 29, 202529 min

Missionary Challenge

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Romans 1:14-16 The Apostle Paul was one of the greatest missionaries the world has ever known. Romans 1:14-16 highlights the missionary challenge of Paul’s life: his heart, his zeal, his motivation, and his prayer. This passage first shares that Paul was faithful to the missionary obligation. “I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise” (Romans 1:14). Paul calls himself a servant of Jesus Christ and recognizes that Christ died for him. Adrian Rogers says, “Though salvation is the gift of God’s grace, the great paradox is that when we’re saved by grace, we become a slave to the Lord Jesus Christ. And in slavery to Jesus Christ is absolute freedom.” Not only did Paul mean he was indebted to Christ, but he also felt indebted to the martyrs who had gone before him, suffering for the faith. Each of us is indebted to those who brought the Gospel to us. We stand on the shoulders and reap the legacy of those who suffered, gave, and sacrificed so we could know Jesus. Paul was also flexible to the missionary opportunity. “So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also” (Romans 1:15) A missionary heart is dependable and available; no intellectual, physical, financial, or personal ability can replace dependability and availability. God might have other plans for us than we expect; nothing takes precedence over the call of God in our lives. Finally, Paul was fearless to the missionary opposition. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek” (Romans 1:6). Paul knew that Jesus was all that mattered, and he was not ashamed of Him. He was not ashamed of the person, the purpose, or the power of the cross—which is salvation. This world is desperate for salvation that only comes from Jesus. We have been empowered to share the Gospel with the world, if we would only be bold enough to share it. Apply it to your life The missionary challenge is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed. We are the recipients of the Gospel, handed down from saint to saint, from generation to generation; we dare not drop it.

May 27, 2025

Doors to the World

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Acts 8-10 Jesus Christ commanded us to take the Gospel to the darkest corners of this Earth, and God has given us open doors to all the world. In our own way and opportunity, each of us is called, ordained, and equipped to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In the Book of Acts, the conversions of three men reveal why it is so important to witness to others. In Acts 8, the conversion of the Ethiopian man shows us that all people have a common hunger to know God, even if we don’t understand it yet. Adrian Rogers says, “Man doesn’t primarily need a boost from beneath; he needs a birth from above.” In Acts 9, the conversion of Saul—who later became Paul, an apostle of Christ— reminds us that all people have a common heartache. All the intelligence and money in the world couldn’t buy the satisfaction that is found only in Christ. In Acts 10, the conversion of Cornelius tells us that all people have a common hope—Jesus. Back-to-back, we are shown through Scripture that the hope of Africa is Jesus, the hope of Asia (Paul the Apostle) is Jesus, and the hope of Europe (Cornelius) is Jesus. All people need the same help. The hope of the world is Jesus. God told Phillip, Annanias, and Peter to “Go.” He took their availability, expendability, and adaptability, and used them to share the Gospel with men who would carry it even further, to the uttermost places on Earth. Adrian Rogers says, “A Christian who refuses to go is not missing a blessing; he’s guilty of high treason against Heaven’s King.” We all have the same heartaches and hunger that are only satisfied through our common hope in Jesus Christ. And remember: Jesus will save anybody who is willing to come to Him. They may not even know that it is God they are searching for, but each and every man needs to know Him. It is our job, as a Christian community, to help them. Apply it to your life Are you available, expendable, and adaptable, ready to be used by God? Somebody needs you desperately! All men need the same help—they need somebody to tell them about Jesus and that somebody is you.

May 23, 2025

There's No Omission in the Great Commission

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus’ final words spoken on Earth were His marching orders for His Church. No one is omitted from the Great Commission; it is an all-inclusive command, and the mandate is active today. Matthew 28:18 says, “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” As we fulfill the Great Commission, we are to employ all power. Our Lord has given us every sufficiency we need in this mission. Adrian Rogers says, “Those early Christians had something that swords couldn’t kill, water couldn’t drown, fire couldn’t burn, and jails couldn’t hold. There was no power able to stand against them because the authority of the Lord was with them.” This power is described as sovereign authority from the Lord; its domain is endless, reaching from realm to realm, on Earth and in the heavenlies. This power transcends culture, creed, race, and time. Jesus dispersed this power, through the Holy Spirit, as He ascended to Heaven. This power enlightens us, energizes us, and encourages us as we carry out the Great Commission. We are also meant to evangelize all nations. Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” (Matthew 28:19). We’ve been commissioned to make disciples everywhere we go. Nobody is left out, nor overlooked—all are lost without Jesus, so we are meant to bring them to Him, whether they are across the world or across the street. Third, we are commissioned to edify all believers. “...teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you…” (Matthew 28:20a). Once we’ve evangelized, we must baptize new believers and get them plugged into a church. Once you become a disciple of Jesus, you are to become a disciple-maker. Finally, we are to endure all the ages. “...and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20b). Jesus Christ is still with us, even now. The Great Commission promises us power, but also promises us His presence. God is on the move: all power, all nations, all commandments, always. Apply it to your life Are you committed to the Great Commission? Are you making disciples that make disciples? Ask the Lord to ignite your passion to bring the lost to Jesus Christ.

May 22, 2025

Why Did Jesus Choose Judas?

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: John 6:71 The name Judas is a name of infamy, disgrace, and treachery; yet Jesus chose Judas to be one of His twelve disciples. It was not a mistake, nor did Judas’s betrayal catch Jesus off guard. The words of warning, assurance, and comfort in John 6 tell us why Jesus chose Judas. First, it was a lesson about religious hypocrisy and the need for true salvation. “‘But there are some of you who do not believe.’ For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who did not believe, and who would betray Him” (John 6:64). Jesus knows the difference between a true believer and a hypocrite—those who have trusted in Him and those who have not. Judas serves as a warning for us, because by all appearances, Judas appeared to be in the right. He had the right associations, reputation, and participation. But these outward things did not reflect what was within. Hypocrisy can hurt, especially in ministry; but remember—the other eleven disciples didn’t stop serving Jesus because of Judas. Nor should we let others' scandals keep us from serving. Second, Jesus’ selection of Judas as a disciple teaches us of God’s divine sovereignty and the reliability of Scripture. Long before Judas made the decision to betray Jesus, it was prophesied in Scripture; we can rest assured, God knew. Nothing is out of God’s control. Adrian Rogers says, “Where man rules, God overrules.” Third, Judas’ story is a lesson of personal responsibility and the tragedy of sin. Judas was not forced to betray Jesus; the Bible clearly reveals Judas’ shady character. Sin had deceived him; only after his betrayal did he realize what he’d done. Sin destroyed him. His soul was in remorse, and his mind was anguished. He was condemned by the very devil who enticed him. Finally, Jesus chose Judas to illustrate the security of the believer. Judas did not lose his salvation because he never had it to begin with. He was outwardly religious but had never been born again. On the other hand, Simon Peter, his counterpart disciple, was rough and spiritually clumsy; He denied knowing Jesus three times that same night. But Peter was eternally secure because he had been born again. God kept him, despite his sin, because Peter had put his faith in Jesus. Apply it to your life Have you trusted in Jesus Christ? Adrian Rogers says, “You need to put your faith where God has put your sins: right on Jesus.”

May 21, 2025

Can an Intellectual Believe in God?

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Psalm 19 Can an intelligent man or woman believe in God? It may surprise us to realize that intellect has nothing to do with it. If a man doesn’t believe in God, it is not because of intellectual difficulties, rather it is because of moral difficulties. Psalm 19 gives us three distinct reasons for intellectual belief in God, and how He has spoken of His own existence. First, God has declared His glory in the skies. “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands” (Psalm 19:1). The heavens declare God’s greatness. The vastness of the Universe, along with its small intricacies, demonstrate God’s power. The heavens declare the goodness of God: “Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge” (Psalm 19:2). It is God who daily maintains the fixed order in the Universe and provides everything it needs to give us life. His mercies are new every morning (see Lamentations 3:23). Second, we can believe in God because of the revelation of the Scriptures. God speaks to us through His written Word. We have access to Scripture, the teachings of God, full of many virtues. It is inerrant, infallible, foundational, and full of God’s promises. The Scriptures are more precious than gold (Psalm 19:10).They are protective, for “By them your servant is warned…” (Psalm 19:11). They are profitable, for “...in keeping them there is great reward” (Psalm 19:11). If we want true and lasting wisdom, we can find it in the Word of God. The Scriptures are pure, clean, right, and righteous, and they endure forever. Finally, we can know God through the illumination of the Spirit. Through the Holy Spirit in our hearts, the Scriptures we read can become real. Psalm 19:12 says, “But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults.” The Holy Spirit convicts us of our sins and cleanses us. When we hand our control over to the Spirit, He brings us into communion with the Father. Adrian Rogers says, “You don’t come to God because of intellect. You come to God because He first loved us." Apply it to your life By the Word of God in the heavens, in our hands, and in our hearts, we can know God. Spend time in His Word, marvel at His work in the Universe, and ask the Holy Spirit to commune with you.

May 19, 2025

Satan's Academy Award

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Revelation 22 Make-believe is not new to our day and age. Some of the biggest actors in the world are not in Hollywood, but in our churches. The Bible calls them hypocrites, people who pander to a phony world. Throughout the Gospels, we see Jesus has compassion and forgiveness for the sinners, thieves, and prostitutes. However, Matthew 6 shows us He saves His most severe words for the hypocrites. First, Matthew 6:1-2 illustrates the shameful display of hypocrisy: “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them…” (Matthew 6:1). We are most susceptible to hypocrisy in our areas of deed, devotion, and discipline. When helping others, we must always examine our manner and motive, being careful not to do things for our own glory and praise. This same principle is true for prayer. The length or the language of our prayers don’t impress God (see Matthew 6:7); we are not informing Him of anything He doesn’t already know. Rather, prayer invites God into our lives and grants us the privilege of fellowship with Him. Adrian Rogers says, “Prayer is one of the greatest acts of love and kindness God could ever extend to you. God allows and enables you to join with Him in the administration of the Universe and the affairs of men.” We must also be sure to fast for the right reasons, without posing (see Matthew 6:16). Our goal in fasting is not to draw attention; it is to get a word from God. This passage also addresses the sinister danger of hypocrisy.Hypocrites deceive themselves and others; they are blind leading the blind. Hypocrites defraud themselves and others; in receiving glory here on Earth, they rob themselves of glory in eternity.Hypocrisy destroys; it takes the form of godliness but denies the power of it. We must evaluate our own lives with serious discernment. Hypocrites don’t realize they are hypocrites. Knowing this, we must check our motives, live rightly before the Lord, and serve Him out of our love for Him. Apply it to your life Take some time to ask yourself, “Is there a little Pharisee in me? Have I been playing a role without realizing it?” Hypocrites are not always vile, wicked people; they just haven’t lived in the reality of knowing God. Be sure to check your motives and serve God with your whole heart.

May 15, 202536 min

What Shall I Do With Christ?

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Matthew 27:22 In Matthew 27, Jesus Christ stood on trial before Pilate, and in verse 22, Pilate asked the most personal and pressing question: “What shall I do with Christ?” What we do with Jesus is an unavoidable decision each of us will make; what we decide—or not decide—will dictate our eternity. We must consider Pilate’s decision: as the people cried out for Jesus’ death, Pilate’s voice of reason and conscience raised alarm. He examined the evidence and listened to witnesses, including his own wife (see Matthew 27:19), and Jesus Himself, who confessed that He is the King for everyone who is of the truth (see John 18:37). Though the voices that confronted Pilate clearly revealed the right thing to do, his warped values pressured him to decide otherwise. Pilate was pressured by public opinion; the people were viciously calling for Jesus’ blood.Pilate’s pride, position, and possessions were more valuable to him than the innocent man standing before him. Adrian Rogers explains, “Pilate had to do something with Jesus. He was faced with the inevitable, unavoidable Jesus Christ, and so are you.” At first, Pilate ignored the issue, then he tried to hand the decision off to someone else. Finally, he decided not to decide. Matthew 27:24 says, “When Pilate saw that he could not prevail at all, but rather that a tumult was rising, he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, ‘I am innocent of the blood of this just Person. You see to it.’” Pilate’s rejection of reason and misplaced values made Jesus’ trial a mockery of justice. Pilate’s “neutral” verdict condemned Jesus to death; with the verdict, Pilate also condemned himself. We have an opportunity to make a different decision. Analyzing the evidence from Scripture, the witnesses of the saints, of old and of new, we know Jesus is exactly who He says He is. And perhaps the most crucial witness of them all is God the Father. 1 John 5:9 says, “If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he has testified of his Son.” We know that Jesus is Lord, because after He was crucified, God reversed the decision of the court and raised Him from the dead! Apply it to your life You cannot be neutral about Jesus; you cannot avoid Him, escape Him, or bypass Him: so what will you do with Him?

May 12, 2025

Honoring Father and Mother

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Exodus 20:12 One of the most basic, fundamental commandments we are to follow is to honor our fathers and mothers.Exodus 20:12 says, “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.” Our parents are the first people we meet in this world; if we do not love and respect them, how can we expect to love and respect others? Adrian Rogers says, “The religion that does not begin at home does not begin.” We first honor our parents by obeying them when we are young. Disobedience is not a weakness; it is a wickedness. Disobedience invites the sure judgment of God. On the contrary, obedience invites the blessings of God. The first secret to a long life and prosperity is learning to honor our fathers and mothers. Through obedience, we learn character and self-control; we receive God’s blessing and protection. Second, we should care for our parents when they are old. In our society, people sometimes fail to care for their older parents. We must remember that our parents loved us in spite of our faults; we must love them in spite of their faults. Third, we should honor our parents at all times. We do that first by showing respect, no matter what. We also show honor when we express gratitude. Gratefulness blesses our parents more than we could ever know. We honor them when we listen to their counsel. Our parents have the advantage of being further down the road of life. How wise we would be to listen to the ones who love us and have our best interest in mind. We can live noble lives that bring honor to them. Children are an extension of their parents; when they see their children doing things that are godly and worthy, it gives them joy. Last of all, we must show our parents love, remembering what we owe them; they gave us life, their blood flows through our veins. Adrian Rogers says, “The love of your parents for you is the closest thing to the love of God known on this Earth.” Apply it to your life Do you obey and honor our Heavenly Father, showing respect, gratitude, and love?

May 9, 2025

Love Worth Finding | Audio Program