North Avenue Church Podcast

Why We Must Reject the Catholic View of Mary

Mon, 11 May 2026 14:49:00 -0400

The Catholic view of Mary contains numerous significant errors. What does Scripture really teach?

You can watch this message here.

Understanding Paul's Response to Jewish Opposition to the Gospel in the First Century | 1 Thessalonians 2:14-20

Thu, 07 May 2026 13:35:59 -0400

Zach, Scott, and John walk through an especially challenging section of this letter to properly understand.

God and Money: Providing for the House of Our God | Nehemiah 10:32-39

Mon, 04 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Money is one of the greatest idols in this world. What can we learn about finances from this seemingly obscure passage in Nehemiah? There are many important principles here and in other New Testament texts that challenge us to participate in the joy of sacrificial giving!

You can watch this message here.

How Roman Catholicism Overly Exalts Mary | A Protestant Critique

Sun, 03 May 2026 16:40:51 -0400

Mariology is an area of Catholic theology where we see an unbiblical development throughout church history of Mary taking on a far more exalted position than Scripture gives her. How should we respond?

You can watch this message here.

Abounding in Thanksgiving | Colossians 1-2

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

We should be thankful…

For other Christians
Because of the hope laid up for us in heaven
Because of the spiritual blessings we have in Christ

You can watch this message here.

In the New Testament is Peter the First Pope? | A Protestant Interpretation of Matthew 16 & 18

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400

Is there a New Testament case to make that Peter was the first in a long line of Popes?

You can watch this message here.

Paul Ministered Like a Father with His Children | 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 21:51:34 -0400

Jerry, Zach, and John walk through the next section of chapter 2.

How Paul Ministered to the Thessalonians | 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 12:53:54 -0400

Jerry, Scott, and John walk through this next section of 1 Thessalonians.

The Ascension of Christ: A Neglected and Glorious Doctrine | Luke 24:48-53

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

The ascension of Jesus raises questions: Why did Jesus have to leave in order for the Spirit to be given? Why did Jesus say it was better that He go away in order for the Spirit to come? After addressing some of these important questions, we then look at the ascension through these three lenses:

The Ascension of Our King
The Ascension of Our Priest
The Ascension of Our Prophet

You can watch this message here.

Problems with the Pope: Why Protestants Reject the Papacy

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:39:37 -0400

What does the Roman Catholic Church officially teach about the Papacy and why do we believe Scripture does not support it?

You can watch this here.

You Recevied the Word in Affliction with Joy | 1 Thessalonians 1:6-10

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Jerry, Scott, and Zach lead us in this second week in 1 Thessalonians.

See My Hands and My Feet: They Disbelieved for Joy | Luke 24:36-47

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:47:36 -0400

Here are the points from the message. Mark borrowed the first three from Alistair Begg's helpful sermon here.

Peace (v 36)
Panic (v 37-38)
Proof (v 39-43)
Prophets (v 44-46)
Proclamation (v 47)

You can watch this message here.

The Trinity: Where We as Evangelicals Tend to Go Wrong ... and Where We Can Grow | Reflections from Dr. Wellum's conference

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:21:30 -0400

After we received world class teaching on Christology and Trinitarian theology from Dr. Steve Wellum, Mark and Greg review some of the things we can take away and also confess areas where our understanding of Christ as one Person in two natures at times fell short of the fullness of what Scripture teaches. It's not too late to grow!

You can watch this message here.

The Road to Emmaus | Luke 24:13-35 [Easter Sermon]

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 15:46:08 -0400

Here is the outline for this Easter message:

A Stranger on the Road (v 13-19a)
The Gospel According to Cleopas (v 19b-24)
The Gospel According to the Old Testament (v 25-27)
Burning Hearts and Open Eyes (v 28-35)

You can watch this message here.

The Agony of Gethsemane and the Cross | Luke 22:39-46; 23:32-49 [Good Friday]

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 11:51:05 -0400

Here is the outline for Scott's powerful message on Jesus's agony in Gethsemane and His crucifixion.

The agony of Jesus
The cup
The cross of Christ
The scandal of grace

You can watch this message here.

Four Questions about Gethsemane | Matthew 26:36-46

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:49:52 -0400

This brief message was given to the students at WCA's Easter Chapel this morning.

Why the Empty Tomb Matters: An Apologetic Defense of the Resurrection | Matthew 27:57-28:15

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:47:14 -0400

In light of Easter, here is a fresh extended meditation on why the empty tomb matters. — Did you know *only* Matthew mentions the guards at the tomb? — And do you know *why* he spends 11 verses telling us about them? It matters!

You can watch this message here.

Introducing the Thessalonian Church | 1 Thessalonians 1:1-3

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 19:13:29 -0400

Jerry, Scott, and John started us off on the first week in this new series on 1 Thessalonians.

Recognizing and Welcoming the King | Luke 19:28-40 [Palm Sunday]

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 09:09:02 -0400

Here are the four main points of the message:

Unexpected sources recognize the king (18:35-19:10)
In this parable, different responses to the King (19:11-27)
An exuberant welcome for the King (19:28-40)
Some surprising announcements from the King (19:41-48)

The crowd has three false expectations:

They expect Rome’s overthrow
They expect the immediately re-establishment of Jerusalem as the primary city on earth
They expect the rule of the Messiah from Jerusalem over all nations

You can watch this message here.

Q&A with Dr. Steve Wellum: The Trinity, Classical Theism, Israel, the Chuch, & Christian Zionism

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Mark and Greg had the privilege of getting to ask Dr. Wellum some questions. They begin with issues related to the Trinity and Classical Theism. They also asked about the role of national Israel today.

You can watch this message here.

Renewing Our Confidence in the LORD and the Lamb | Revelation 4-5

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. Wellum gavea us a wonderful overview of Revelation 4-5. In chapter four, he shows us God's heavenly throne, surrounded by glory and angels. Then, in chapter 5, he shows us our hopelessness apart from Christ — the Lion and the Lamb — and the glory of our salvation in Him.

You can watch this message here.

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus from the Confessional Standards (God the Son Incarnate: Session 4)

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

We had the privilege of having Dr. Steve Wellum speak on the theme of God the Son Incarnate for our 2026 NAC Bible Conference.

This message is about knowing Jesus as from the confessions of the early church, with a special emphasis on Nicea (AD 381) and Chalcedon (AD 451).

You can watch this message here.

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus as the Incarnate Son (God the Son Incarnate: Session 3)

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

We had the privilege of having Dr. Steve Wellum speak on the theme of God the Son Incarnate for our 2026 NAC Bible Conference.

This message is about knowing Jesus as the incarnate Son. We are focusing on His true humanity.

You can watch this message here.

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus as God the Son (God the Son Incarnate: Session 2)

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

We had the privilege of having Dr. Steve Wellum speak on the theme of God the Son Incarnate for our 2026 NAC Bible Conference.

This message is about knowing Jesus as God the Son. We are focusing on His deity.

You can watch this message here.

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus from the Bible's Storyline (God the Son Incarnate: Session 1)

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:36:58 -0400

We had the privilege of having Dr. Steve Wellum speak on the theme of God the Son Incarnate for our 2026 NAC Bible Conference.

This message seeks to put Jesus within the context of the entire Bible's storyline, especially focusing on the Old Testament background.

You can watch this message here.

Doctrinal Distinctives of North Avenue Church | Prospective Member Meeting | Week 3

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 14:37:48 -0400

What are the theological distinctives of our church?

Baptist theology
Reformed theology
Cessationism
Progressive Covenantalism
Complementarianism
God's glory and our joy
Confessionalism

You can watch this message here.

The Ending of Jude: Three Kinds of Strugglers and a Wonderful Doxology | Jude 22-25

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

In this final week in Jude, Jerry, Scott, and Mark look at three kinds of people who are struggling with and giving into the false teachers and how to help rescue them. Then we end with the famous and wonderful doxology: "Now to Him who is able to keep you..."

A Covenant of Obedience | Nehemiah 9:38-10:31

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 14:17:04 -0400

What do a list of obscure names signed to a covenant from 2,400 years ago in Jerusalem have to do with us today? Actually, quite a bit!

Here are the three main points:

Why Covenants Matter
Covenant Separation & Devotion
Three Covenant Applications: (1) Marriage; (2) Sabbath; (3) Sabbath years

You can watch this message here.

Build Yourselves Up in Your Most Holy Faith | Jude 17-21

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 17:45:28 -0400

Jerry, Scott, and Zach cover the warnings and commands of verses 17-21.

Sin, Discipline, and a Humbled People | Nehemiah 9:22-37

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 15:08:36 -0400

Here is the outline for the message:

The Land (v 22-25)
God's Discipline (v 26-31)
A Humbled People (v 32-37)

You can watch this message here.

Enoch's Prophesy | Jude 14-16 (Week 5)

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Jerry, Scott, and Zach continue our journey through the too often neglected letter of Jude.

Waterless Clouds | Jude 11-13 (Week 4)

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Jerry, Scott, and Zach discuss more of the false teachers that Jude warns us all about.

They rely on dreams, defile the flesh, reject authority, and blaspheme angels | Jude 8-10 (Week 3)

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Jerry, Scott, and Zach walk through some challenging verses in Jude. What does it mean that there was a dispute over the body of Moses and why did Jude include that here in his argument?

History from God's Perspective | Nehemiah 9:9-21

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 15:20:01 -0500

We must understand history from God's perspective or else we will be left to interpret our lives wrongly.

Redemption (v 9-11)
Provision (v 12-15)
Rebellion (v 16-17a, 18)
Compassion (v 17b-21)

You can watch this message here.

Does James Contradict Paul? | Catholic vs. Protestant Teaching on Justification (Week 3)

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 11:37:44 -0500

You can watch this message here.

A Sinful People and a Great God | Nehemiah 9:1-8

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 15:59:08 -0500

We see in this passage something of the two legs on which the Christian life is to be walked: confession and worship.

A Broken People (v 1-5)
A Great God (v 6-8)

They praise Yahweh alone as Creator
They praise Yahweh for election
They praise Yahweh as gracious covenant-maker
They praise Yahweh as righteous covenant-keeper

You can watch this message here.

What are the Marks of a Healthy Church? | Prospective Member Meeting | Week 2

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 11:09:38 -0500

In our second week, we cover most of the 'marks of a healthy church' form 9Marks ministries.

You can watch this message here.

Catholics vs. Protestants on Justification (Part 2)

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Zach Hutzell joins Greg to discuss differences between the Catholic and Protestant views of justification. This matter is central to the gospel and the differences are of great significance.

Catholics vs. Protestants on Justification (Part 1)

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:05:23 -0500

The differences between Catholics and Protestants on justification are of great signficance in how we understand the gospel. We must work to carefully understand them.

You can watch this message here.

As It Is Written: Careful Study and Joyful Obedience | Nehemiah 8:13-18

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 14:32:53 -0500

I. Ezra Leads a Men's Bible Study (v 13)
II. The Result is Obedience (v 14-17b)
III. Obedience Leads to Joy and the Word (v 17c-18)

You can watch this message here.

Beware of those who Pervert the Grace of God | Jude 4-7 (Week 2)

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Jerry, Scott, and Zach discuss the warning Jude presents about those who "pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ."

Church Membership and Church Discipline | Prospective Member Meeting: Week 1

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

What does Scripture teach about church membership and church discipline? Does the New Testament assume believers should be members of a local church?

You can watch this message here.

The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength | Nehemiah 8:9-12

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 19:05:02 -0500

What created the joy of the Lord in God's people in Nehemiah 8? And what was the nature of this joy according to the text? Answering these questions can enable us to better 'rejoice in the Lord always'!

I. What precedes this joy?

Eager Initiative (v. 1-2)
Prolonged Attentiveness (v. 3-4, 7-8)
Passionate Reception (v. 5-6)
Brokenhearted Grief (v. 9)

II. What is the nature of this joy?

It is an understanding joy (v. 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 12)
It is a holy joy (v. 9b, 10b, 11b)
It is a neighbor-loving joy (v. 10a)
It is a God-centered joy (v. 10c)
It is a strengthening/protective joy (v. 10c)
It is an obedient joy (v 12)

Spurgeon, "What a gracious God we serve, who makes delight to be a duty, and who commands us to rejoice! Should we not at once be obedient to such a command as this? It is intended that we should be happy."

You can watch this message here.

Introducing Jude: Contend for the Faith | Jude 1-3 (Week 1)

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Jerry, Scott, and Zach lead us in the first Sunday school in the book of Jude.

Don't Be Like Diotrephes: He Liked to Put Himself First | 3 John (Week 2)

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 12:24:25 -0500

Here Jerry, Scott, Mark, and Greg finished out the fascinating and too often neglected letter of 3 John.

Truth and Love | 3 John (Week 1)

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Jerry, Scott, and Shane start week one in the too often neglected book of 3 John.

Abide in the Teaching of Christ | 2 John (Week 2)

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Jerry, Scott, and Grant finish out 2 John with its message to abide in the true teaching of Christ and not to "go on ahead" to another teaching that is not biblical.

Let Us Be People of the Truth | 2 John (Week 1)

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 17:11:21 -0500

Grant joins Jerry and Scott to set the scene for 2 John and to begin with John's emphasis on God's truth.

Prayer, Sin, and God's Protection of His Own | 1 John 5:13-21

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Jerry, Scott, and Zach finish out the book of 1 John.

What Does It Mean that 'Jesus Came By Water and By Blood'? | 1 John 5:6-12

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 16:49:41 -0500

Jerry, Zach, and Mark cover a couple of challenging aspescts of 1 John 5. What does it mean that Jesus came "not by water only but by the water and the blood" (v. 6)? Also, why does the KJV have such a different reading of v. 7-8 than modern English translations?

AUTHORITY: Sola Scriptura vs. Catholic Tradition and the Pope

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

The formal cause of the Reformation was the issue of authority. Essentially the question was, "Who says?" What is our ultimate authority in this world? Is it Scripture only or Scripture plus "sacred tradition" and the Magisterium (the pope and his bishops)? This issue foundational to all other major differences between Catholics and Protestants.

You can watch this message here.

Four of Satan's Tactics as We Seek to Finish Well | Nehemiah 6:1-7:4

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 13:59:17 -0500

Satan works through Nehemiah's enemies to attack him in four ways in Nehemiah 6:1-7:4.

Distraction (6:1-4)
Defamation (6:5-9)
Deception (6:10-14)
Infiltration (6:15-7:4)

Let us learn from Nehemiah's example how we can resist these tactics and so finish well. You can watch this message here.

Problems with Catholicism on Authority and Grace

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 13:39:13 -0500

It's been a long break, but Sunday we picked back up our 'Questioning Catholicism' series!

You can watch this message here.

The Sin from Within | Nehemiah 5

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 15:05:29 -0500

Main idea: The greatest threat to God's people has always been the sin from within. Here, the people humbly respond with repentance as Nehemiah leads through godly confrontation and illustration.

Choosing Sinful Exploitation (v 1-5)
Responding to Godly Confrontation (v 6-13)
Observing a Godly Illustration (v 14-19)

You can watch this message here.

The Sword and the Trowel | Nehemiah 4:15-23

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 14:50:10 -0500

The Christian life is about the sword and the trowel. We are called to build (= the trowel) and defend (= the sword). This passage has become well known for this very reason.

You can watch this message here.

Ordinary Faithfulness for a New Year | Selected Scripture

Sun, 28 Dec 2025 12:14:16 -0500

Four ways to pursue ordinary faithfulness in a new year:

By treasuring the Word of God (Psalm 1)
By preaching the Gospel to ourselves consistently (1 Corinthians 15:1-11)
By cultivating a firm belief in the sovereignty and goodness of God (Romans 8:28-32)
By folding our lives into the local church where we are members (Hebrews 10:23-25)

You can watch this message here.

Unto Us a Child is Born | Isaiah 7:1-9:7

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 14:53:18 -0500

In difficult times...

We are tempted to trust in other powers [7:1-8:15]
We are tempted to trust in other authorities [8:16-21]
We must trust in the God who Saves [9:1-7]

You can watch this message here.

A Cross-Shaped Christmas | Philippians 2:1-11

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 20:28:23 -0500

Here are the two main points of Greg's meditation on the purpose of the incarnation from Philippians 2:

The intentional unity of the church (v 1-4)
The intentional incarnation of the Messiah (v 5-11)

You can watch this message here.

Perseverance in the Face of Discouragement | Nehemiah 4:10-14

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 15:57:28 -0500

Nehemiah shows us how to handle discouragement in the Christian life.

I. Why We Are Tempted to Give Up (v 10-12)

A. Our strength is low
B. The burden seems too great
C. Opposition grows from without and within

II. Ways We Fight to Endure (v 13-14)

A. Set a defense where you're most vulnerable
B. Expose yourself to truth!
C. Remember and fear the Lord
D. Remember what is at stake

You can watch this message here.

Perseverance in the Face of Opposition | Nehemiah 4:1-9

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 14:41:16 -0500

Why is the Christian life so hard?

Here is the outline of the message:

The Enemies Mock (v 1-3)
Nehemiah Prays and the People Work (v 4-6)
The Enemies Threaten (v 7-8)
Nehemiah Prays and sets a Guard (v 9)

You can watch this message here.

All Hands on Deck! The People Get to Work | Nehemiah 3

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 17:05:45 -0500

The people beautifully model unified work for the kingdom!

A. Nehemiah Leads the People by...

Showing the way forward
Delegating the work into manageable portions
Giving credit to the workers

B. The People Avoid...

Procrastination
A preoccupation with (1) rank, (2) gifting, or (3) recognition

C. The People Work...

In Unity
Diligently and Sacrificially

You can watch this message here.

What is Biblical Leadership? | Nehemiah 2:17-20

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 13:55:38 -0500

Nehemiah provides a wonderful example of bibical leadership in this passage.

Nehemiah clearly communicates the problem (v 17a)
Nehemiah clearly communicates the solution (v 17b-18a)
The people and their enemies respond (v 18b-19)
Nehemiah's uncompromising conviction in the face of opposition (v 20)

You can watch this message here.

Nehemiah's Godly Leadership Begins in Jerusalem | Nehemiah 2:9-16

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:33:32 -0500

In this week's passage we learn about godly leadership from Nehemiah.

Godly leaders...

Use wisdom (v 9)
Expect opposition (v 10)
Know when to rest (v 11)
Have a God-glorifying plan, yet don’t reveal it prematurely (v 12)
Clearly understand the problems they face (vv 13-16)

You can watch this message here.

Nehemiah's Prayerful Planning, Courageous Action, & God's Good Providence | Nehemiah 2:1-8

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 15:22:46 -0500

Main idea: Nehemiah shows us how to pray, plan, and act all while relying on God's good providence.

Prayerful planning
Courageous actions
God's providence

You can watch this message here.

Nehemiah's Passionate Prayer of Repentance | Nehemiah 1:4-11

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 15:57:26 -0400

Here is the outline for Nehemiah's prayer of repentance:

Nehemiah turns to God first (vv. 4–6a)
Nehemiah confesses sin (vv. 6b–7)
Nehemiah prays God’s promises in Scripture (vv. 8–9)
Nehemiah points to God’s past faithfulness (v. 10)
Nehemiah makes his request (v. 11)

[Audio is corrected at 1:38]

You can watch this message here.

Nehemiah's Holy Ambition | Nehemiah 1:1-4

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 14:17:17 -0400

Nehemiah had a great job working as the cupbearer of Artaxerxes, king of Persia. Why did he give it all up to embrace the difficult task of rebuilding Jerusalem's walls? The answer is the Lord developed in him a holy ambition for God's people, place, and glory. Do you have a holy ambition for your life?

You can watch this message here.

Q&A: Jesus vs. Other Religions [WCA Chapel]

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 12:07:13 -0400

Mark participated in a Q&A chapel at Westminster Christian Academy for middle and high school students on October 17th. It was led by the head of school, Jared Clark, and was about Jesus and the Bible among other world religions, including Islam and Mormonism.

Ezra Leads the People in Repentance | Ezra 9-10

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 23:15:52 -0400

Here is the outline of the sermon:

Ezra mourns and prays over the sin amongst the people (9:1-15)
The people respond with a plan for repentance (10:1-8)
The people carry out their repentance (10:9-44)

You can watch this message here.

This is the Victory that has Overcome the World — Our Faith | 1 John 5:1-5

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0400

This message focuses on the power of the new birth to bring about faith that overcomes the world.

We Love Because He First Loved Us | 1 John 4:13-21

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:36:41 -0400

In this message we hear about the power of God's love to transform our lives.

Breaking Down a Conversation with Two Mormon (LDS) Missionaries

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:59:00 -0400

Here Mark breaks down a conversation he had with two Mormon "missionaries" over nine years ago.

You can watch this video here.

Ezra a Man of God | Ezra 7-8

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 14:30:59 -0400

Here is Greg's outline for the message:

Ezra’s godly heritage (7:1-5)
Ezra’s devotion to God’s Word (7:6, 10-11)
Ezra’s favor with God and man (7:6, 9, 11-28; 8:31)
Ezra’s zeal for God’s temple (7:7-8; 8:1-20, 24-36)
Ezra’s trust in God’s power and protection (8:21-23)

You can watch this message here.

God is Love | 1 John 4:7-12

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

The team discusses God's love which is so richly described in this passage.

What Do Mormons ('Latter Day Saints') Believe?

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 05:43:00 -0400

Why is it incorrect to list Mormonism ('Latter Day Saints') within the Christian faith?

You can watch this message here.

Discernment Needed: Test the Spirits | 1 John 4:1-6

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

The team picks the 1 John series back up after an extended break. Here we are exhorted to have biblical discernment as Christians.

Put on the Whole Armor of God | Ephesians 6:10-20

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 05:05:00 -0400

Greg and Zach Hutzell do a great job walking us through this fantastic passage on spiritual warfare and the armor of God.

How God's Word Creates Obedient Worship Despite Opposition | Ezra 3-6

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 08:40:27 -0400

As we overview four chapters of Ezra, here is the outline:

Two Kinds of Opposition: a) Compromise from within (4:1-3); b) Pressure from without (4:4-5, 24; 5:3-4)
God Providentially works through Political Leaders (5:5-6:13)
God Providentially works through His Word (5:1-2; 6:14-22 Haggai 1-2)

You can watch this message here.

How Suffering Gives Us an Opportunity to Proclaim God's Goodness and Gospel to the Watching World

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 22:04:34 -0400

Picking up from the first eight points of the last message, here we cover two more reasons God prunes us:

(9) To give us new opportunities to proclaim the gospel! [Philippians 1:12-14]

(10) To show the world we have a different kind of hope [1 Peter 3:14-17]

Eight Reasons God Prunes Us Through Suffering | John 15:2

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 22:21:18 -0400

John 15:2 | God's Good and Painful Pruning

How does God prune us? Through trials, difficulties, discipline, and suffering
Why does God prune us? Because He loves us and wants us to bear more fruit

John 15:2b, "...every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit."

God’s pruning is never meaningless. It is always wise, every bit is necessary, nothing is wasted. It is always and only ever for our good.

What kind of "fruit" does God seek by pruning us?

EIGHT REASONS GOD PRUNES US:

To purify our faith like gold [1 Peter 1:3-7]
To help us grow in obedience [Hebrews 12:11]
To increase our assurance [John 15:8]
To make us more humble [2 Corinthians 12:7-10]
To give us full, otherwordly joy [John 15:11]
To enable us to comfort others [2 Corinthians 1:3-4]
To prepare for us an eternal weight of glory [2 Corinthians 4:16-18]
To give us deeper fellowship with Jesus [Philippians 3:10-11]

Charlie Kirk's Christ-Centered Memorial Service: Highlights and Reflections

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 15:51:35 -0400

Yesterday, approximately 200,000 people came to the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizon, to celebrate Charlie Kirk's life. Listen in with us to some of the highlights as so many speakers pointed to Jesus Christ and the gospel explicitly. Let's pray that the Lord uses this great for the salvation of many!

You can watch this message here.

God's Promise-Keeping Providence in a Pagan World | Ezra 1:1-3:6

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 22:34:19 -0400

Main idea: God's providence ensures that God's promises to His people are fulfilled. And the final result is His glory!

God brings Nebuchadnezzar against his people
God stirs Cyrus to action
God stirs his people to action

You can watch this message here.

Six Pastoral Reflections on Charlie Kirk's Assassination

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 21:26:17 -0400

You can watch this excerpt here and the full message here.

Unashamed Courage to Speak the Truth without Fear | 2 Timothy 1:6-14

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 16:46:21 -0400

In this message, we delayed our series in Ezra for a week to address the events regarding Charlie Kirk's assassination this past Wednesday. How are Christians supposed to think and act biblically in response to a tragedy like this?

You can wath this message here.

Lessons From Paul's Friends: Aristarchus, Luke, Mark, & Demas | Philemon 15-16, 23-24

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 15:02:34 -0400

In this final message in the book of Philemon, we glean several lessons from the friends Paul mentions in this letter, especially in the conclusion.

Philemon and Onesimus: Slavery Transformed (vv. 15-16)
Aristarchus and Luke: Faithfulness Modeled (v. 24)
Mark and Demas: Perseverance Needed (v. 24)

You can watch this message here.

Tears on Jesus' Feet: Those Who are Forgiven Much, Love Much | Luke 7:36-50

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 20:00:15 -0400

Here are the four points of Scott's message:

A sinful woman (vv. 36-38)
An angry Pharisee (v. 39)
A powerful parable (vv. 40-43)
A gracious Savior (vv. 44-50)

You can watch this message here.

Why Our Church Seeks a Biblical View of Conversion, Evangelism, & Discipleship | Prospective Member Class: Week 3

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 16:39:09 -0400

This is week three of our prospective members Sunday schools. Why is it so important that churches have a biblical view of conversion, evangelism, and discipleship?

You can watch this message here.

How to Forgive Others in Christ | Philemon 17-25

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In order to forgive others, you must...

Put the Fellowship of Your Faith into Practice (v 17)
Charge the Debt to Your Own Account (vv 18-19a)
Realize that You are Fundamentally a Debtor, Not a Creditor (v 19b)
Let Your Forgiveness Refresh the Hearts of Others (v 20)
Obey Beyond the Minimal Requirement (v 21)
Remain Accountable to Others (vv 22-24)
Rely on the Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ (v 25)

You can watch this message here.

Gaining Victory Over the World, the Flesh, and the Devil | Spiritual Warfare: Week 4

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 16:02:49 -0400

Greg is joined this week by Zach Hutzell as they continue their series on spiritual warfare.

You can watch this message here.

Why Are We a Plural-Elder-Led Congregational Church with Expositional Preaching? | Prospective Member Class: Week 2

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

This is the second week of our prospective member Sunday school class. In it the team primarily addresses our church government and why we practice expositional preaching on Sundays.

You can watch this message here.

For Love's Sake: Paul's Appeal to Onesimus | Philemon 8-16

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Reconciliation and forgiveness between brothers and sisters in Christ are not optional when we live according to the logic of the gospel of grace.

How Paul Pursues Reconciliation Between Onesimus & Philemon:

Paul appeals rather than commands (vv. 8-9a; 14)
Paul highlights his age and imprisonment (v. 9)
Paul explains Onesimus's transformation (vv. 10-11)
Paul states his affection for Onesimus (vv. 12-13)
Paul foregrounds God's providence (vv. 15-16)
Paul emphasizes the equality of our 'brotherhood' in Christ (v. 16)

You can watch this message here.

Spiritual Warfare: Satan and Demons

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 20:43:50 -0400

What does Scripture teach concerning Satan and demons?

You can watch this message here.

Church Membership & Discipline | Prospective Member Class: Week 1

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 14:09:03 -0400

This is our first prospective members class. We spend most of the time covering what Scripture teaches about church membership and church discipline.

You can watch this message here.

Spiritual Warfare: The World & the Flesh

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

The world and the flesh go alongside the devil as our enemies in our daily spiritual battle.

You can watch this message here.

Onesimus: The Providential Return of the Prodigal Slave | Philemon 8-16

Sun, 10 Aug 2025 14:38:20 -0400

The story of Onesimus' conversion:

He was formerly useless: A runaway slave (thief?), enslaved to sin
He was transformed by God's kind providence
He became useful and faithful

You can watch this message here.

Introducing Spiritual Warfare

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

What does the Bible teach about spiritual warfare?

You can watch this message here.

Paul's Prayer: May the Koinonia of Your Faith Become Effective | Philemon 4-7

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 15:24:28 -0400

The passage breaks into three parts:

Paul’s habit of thankful prayer (vv. 4-5)
Paul’s prayer for Philemon (v. 6)
Paul’s comfort regarding Philemon (v. 7)

You can watch this message here.

Learning to Pray with Paul | Colossians 1:3-14; Philemon 4-5

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:00:00 -0400

I. THE GRATITUDE OF PAUL'S PRAYER LIFE (vv. 3-8)

1) Paul thanks God and prays ... for a church, most of whose members he has never met

Colossians 1:3, "We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you,"
Colossians 2:1-2, "For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face..."

Carson, "We must ask ourselves how extensive our own praying is. Do all our petitions revolve around our own families and churches, our own cherished but rather small circle of friends? Of course, we are primarily responsible for praying for our own circle... But if that is the furthest reach of our prayers, we become parochial [narrow in outlook or scope]... Our prayers may be an index of how small and self-centered our world is."

2) Paul's gratitude results from paying attention.

Paul says to Philemon: "[4] I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, [5] because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus" (Philemon 4-5)
Paul says to the Colossian church (that Philemon hosted in his house): "[3] We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, [4] since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints," (Colossians 1:3-4)

Paul is listening! He is paying attention to others.

Acts 15:36, "Paul said to Barnabas, 'Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.'"
- Paul cares greatly about their spiritual state!
Carson, "[I]t will do us good to fasten on reports of Christians in several parts of the world we have never visited, find out what we can about them, and learn to intercede with God on their behalf. Not only is this an important expression of the fellowship of the church, but it is also a critical discipline that will enlarge our horizons, increase our ministry, and help us to become world Christians."

When a fellow believer comes to your mind, what is your first thought?

Irritation? Annoyance? Jealousy? Bitterness?

What is Paul's first thought? Gratitude!

Philemon 4 "I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers,"
Colossians 1:3-4, "We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, [4] since we heard of your faith..."

Gratitude for what? Their faith, love, and heavenly hope.

Paul credits God with their own faith and love.
Philippians 1:29, "For it has been granted [Dictionary: to give graciously] to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake…”
Colossians 3:12, "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,"

3) Paul thanks God for the gospel's fruit as it comes through human means (vv. 5b-8)

Epaphras, after being converted under Paul, brings the good news to Colossea! (Last week's sermon)

II. THE FOCUS OF PAUL'S PRAYER LIFE (vv. 9-12)

Spiritual growth is always the dominant concern, over the physical!

Carson, "Suppose, for example, that 80 or 90 percent of our petitions ask God for good health, recovery from illness, safety on the road, a good job, success in exams, the emotional needs of our children, success in our mortgage application, and much more of the same. How much of Paul's praying revolves around equivalent items? If the center of our praying is far removed from the center of Paul's praying, then even our very praying may serve as a wretched testimony to the remarkable success of the processes of paganization in our life and thought. That is why we need to study the prayers of Paul."
- See Matthew 6:31-33, "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ [32] For the Gentiles [the pagans] seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. [33] But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."

So what does Paul focus on in his prayer?

1) Paul asks God to fill believers with the knowledge of his will (v. 9)

"[9] And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,"

This may seem simple, yet it takes "all spiritual wisdom and understanding" in the complicated nature of life to know what is best.
- Doug Moo, "[This] suggests the ability to discern the truth and to make good decisions based on that truth."
- "spiritual wisdom" means wisdom from the Holy Spirit. (Not how many use the word "spiritual" today)

EXAMPLE: Colossians 4:5-6, "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of [= redeeming] the time. [6] Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."

How do I best love a fellow Christian who is in sin?
How do I best evangelize a co-worker or family member?
I only have limited money, how much do I spend, save, and give away? to whom? how often?
How do I honor my parents if they are unbelievers and disagree with my faith?
What does it look like to "speak the truth in love" when dealing with a rebellious student? or hostile unebeliver? or a timid Christian friend?
When does hard work become sinful preoccupation with your career? When does rest become laziness?
You are posting something *true* on social media, but unsure if it will be edifying or needlessly distracting or contentious

2) Paul's purpose in prayer is that believers might be truly pleasing to the Lord (v. 10a) v. 10 "so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him:"

Knowledge must lead to action!
- "Knowing" God's will (with all spiritual wisdom and understanding) must lead to "walking/living out" God's will.
We must walk in a manner worthy of the Lord.
- (Not earning, not perfection; but rather living "in accord with" the Lord, fully pleasing to Him)

3) Paul prays for four characteristics of a life that is pleasing to the Lord (v. 10b-12) This will produce, among others, these four characteristics...

"BEARING FRUIT in every good work" (v. 10b): Fruit is about character transformation and faithfulness, not mere "results."
"INCREASING in the knowledge of God;" (v. 10c): it will lead to a fully experiential knowledge of God, as we walk with Him
"BEING STRENGTHENED with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;" (v. 11)
1. "[Endurance] is what faith, hope, and love bring to an apparently impossible situation, [patience] what they show to an apparently impossible person."
2. To endure ... takes power; to endure patiently with joy takes tremendous power "according to his glorious might."
"GIVING THANKS to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light." (v. 12)
1. Paul further reminds them why they should be thankful: (vv. 13-14)
  1. vv. 13-14 "He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, [14] in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."
1. All of this should be seasoned by thankfulness to the Father for our share in the "inheritance of the saints of light."

III. THE DEVOTION OF PAUL'S PRAYER LIFE

1) WHY does Paul pray so often for so many?

Colossians 1:3, 9, "We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, .... [9] And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you,"

Carson, "In short, Paul is telling the Colossians that since hearing about them he has made it a point to intercede with God on their behalf in his disciplined, regular prayer times; he has 'not stopped praying' for them."
Carson, "Paul again and again prays for ... the Colossian believers, as if the supply must be constantly renewed."
Think of it like watering the grass or flowers. It must be done continually!

Colossians 4:12-13, "Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God."

2) HOW does Paul pray so often for so many?

Philemon 4-5, "I thank my God always when I remember you [singular] in my prayers,"

G.K. Beale, "Paul is praying specifically for Philemon [the 'you' is singular], which implies that his daily prayer list must have been extensive."
Richard Phillips, "When we consider the large number of people for whom Paul says that he is praying, he must have had not only a devoted prayer life, but also a highly organized one."

APPLICATION:

Don't turn these points from Carson into legalisms, but take them as practical suggestions to help you pray in a more regular, organized, and focused way.

I. PLAN TO PRAY

Don Carson, "Much praying is not done because we do not plan to pray. We do not drift into spiritual life; we do not drift into disciplined prayer. We will not grow in prayer unless we plan to pray. That means we must self-consciously set aside time to do nothing but pray. What we actually do reflects out highest priorities. That means we can proclaim our commitment to prayer until the cows come home, but unless we actually pray, our actions disown our words. This is the fundamental reason why set times for prayer are important: they ensure that vague desires for prayer are concretized in regular practice. Paul's many references to his 'prayers' suggest that he set aside specific times for prayer -- as apparently Jesus himself did (Luke 5:16)... Unless we plan to pray we will not pray." ('Praying with Paul,' p. 1-2).

II. ADOPT PRACTICAL WAYS TO FIGHT MENTAL DRIFT

Don Carson, "Adopt practical ways to impede mental drift.... [Perhaps] articulate your prayers, moving your lips...to...help deter meandering.... A great way to begin to overcome this problem is to pray through various biblical passages. In other words, it is entirely appropriate to tie your praying to your Bible reading... [The] truths and entailments [in your daily Scripture reading] can be the basis of a great deal of reflective praying. [Another option is] journaling [your prayers.]

III. DEVELOP A SYSTEM FOR YOUR PRAYER LISTS

Carson, "Develop a system for your prayer lists. It is difficult to pray faithfully for a large spread of people and concerns without developing prayer lists that help you remember them."

Carson's personal "system": "I kept a manila folder in my study, where I pray... The first sheet ... was a list of people for whom I ought to pray regularly: ... My wife..., my children and a number of relatives, followed by a number of close friends... [Then] institutional names on that sheed [which] included [my] local church ... and the seminary where I now teach.

The second sheet ... listed short-range ... concerns that would not remain indefinitely... In other words, the first sheet focused on people for whom I prayed constantly; the second included people and situations for whom I might pray for a short[er] ... time, but probably not indefinitely.

The next item ... was the list of the students ... for whom I was particularly responsible....and of course this list changed from year to year."

IV. KEEP YOUR PRAYERS TIED TO SCRIPTURE

V. PRAY UNTIL YOU PRAY

VI. FIND MODELS WORTHY OF IMITATION

Don Casron's book, which Mark used to help with the message and numerous subpoints, can be purchased here.

You can watch this message here.

How the Trinity & the Gopsel Ground Unity in the Church | John 17; 1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 15:10:52 -0400

This is our third week on unity and the last week on the summer series on sanctification. We see in these passages that unity is grounded in our triune God and in the gospel of Jesus.

You can watch this message here.

The Winepress of God's Wrath vs. the Blessedness of Dying in the Lord | Revelation 14:6-20

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 22:50:33 -0400

This passage is a sobering warning about the realities and horrors of hell and our need for Jesus. If we endure and die "in the Lord" we will be truly blessed. Let us not live for Babylon, which will be fully and finally judged and destroyed. Let us rather live for eternity.

You can watch this message here.

Church Unity: Laying Down Our Preferences & Avoiding Division on Matters of Opinion | Romans 14:1-15:7

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 18:00:00 -0400

The gospel gives great motivation to allow us to, at times, lay down our preferences in order to better love others and, like Christ, not please ourselves.

You can watch this message here.

Paul & Epaphras: The Remarkable Origin of the Colossian Church in Philemon's Home | Philemon 1-2, 23 (Acts 19:8-10; Colossians 1:6-8; 4:12-13)

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 16:56:20 -0400

Origin stories are popular these days. Today, we look at the origin story of the church that met in Philemon's home, which is better known as the Colossian church. We will focus on the two main human means God used for the birth of this church:

Paul (Acts 19:8-10)
Epraphras (Colossians 1:6-8; 4:12-13)

We can be encouraged by how God uses our lives and His word through us in ways that go beyond what we often are aware of. Small things can lead to significant results! Let us be faithful in the days of seemingly small things.

You can watch this message here.

The Mark of the Beast and the Mark of the Lamb | Revelation 13:15-14:5

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 22:28:16 -0400

What is 666? What is the mark of the beast? These questions have often led people into fruitless discussions. However, their meaning may be much more mundane and far more radical than we may think.

You can watch this message here.

Church Unity in Matters of Opinion | Romans 14:1-15

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

When Scripture neither commands or forbids an action, Christians will often come to a variety of views as to what is best. How do we maintain Christian unity when we will never be uniform in all disputable matters?

This is week six of the sanctification series.

You can watch this message here.

How the Gospel Changes Lives & Transforms Relationships | Philemon 1-3

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 07:02:15 -0400

This message introduces the Paul's shortest NT letter. It is often neglected and yet contains much that is edifying and encouraging!

The Senders: From Paul & Timothy (v. 1a)
The Recipients: To Philemon, Apphia, Archippus, & the Church (vv. 1b-2)
The Grace We All Need: From God our Father & the Lord Jesus Christ (v. 3)

Mark found Malcolm MacLean's excellent chapter on this passage especially helpful in outlining and preparing this message.

You can watch this message here.

The Second Beast who is the False Prophet: Looks Like a Lamb, Speaks Like a Dragon | Revelation 13:11-15

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 09:39:23 -0400

The second beast is later called "the false prophet" in Revelation 16:13 and 19:20. This beast is at work, we argue, throughout the church age. It represents all false religion, philosophy, ideology, economic pressure, and idolatry that turns us away from Christ, especially to worship the first beast. This includes false teachers in the church today who look like a lamb, but speak like a dragon.

You can watch this message here.

What Does It Mean to Fear the Lord? | Sanctification: Week 5

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 15:30:00 -0400

Jerry and Greg walk us through some of what Scripture teaches about what it means to fear the Lord. This is the antidote to the fear of man!

You can watch this message here.

Hezekiah's Imperfect Faith & God's Perfect Faithfulness | 2 Kings 18-19

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 15:29:22 -0400

Greg walked us through a dramatic and important Old Testament story involving King Hezekiah's virtues and flaws, along with Assyria's attempt to intimidate and intice the people of Jerusalem with their powerful army to not trust the Lord.

Hezekiah's strong start (18:1-8)
Hezekiah's fateful misstep (18:9-35)
Hezekiah's renewal in faith (18:36-19:19)
God's perfect faithfulness (19:20-37)

You can watch this message here.

The Idol of the Fear of Man | Sanctification: Week 4

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 12:32:49 -0400

Surely one of the great idols of the human heart is the fear of man. We often care inordinately what other people think about us. How can this idol be identified and how do we begin to conquer it by God's grace?

You can watch this message here.

What is Missions? | Acts 14:19-28

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 19:36:14 -0400

Zach Petty preached for the first time today and did a great job answering the question, "What is missions?"

The three-legged stool of mission:

Gospel proclamation (v. 21a)
Church planting (v. 23)
Church strengthening (v. 22; 15:41)

You can watch this message here.

The Beast who Makes War on the Saints | Revelation 13:1-10

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 12:06:12 -0400

We seek to answer five questions about this passage:

What is the beast from the sea? (vv. 1-2) [Rome? The Antichrist? Something else?]
When are the "42 months" wherein the beast exercises authority? (v. 5b)
What is the mortal wound that is healed? (v. 3a)
How does the beast obtain worship? (vv. 1-5)
How do the beast and saints seek to "conquer" each other? (vv. 6-10)

You can watch this message here.

Contentment vs. Discontentment | Sanctification: Week 3

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 13:18:14 -0400

The battle for contentment is more important than we may often think!

You can watch this message here.

Make Disciples of All Nations, Baptizing and Teaching Them | Matthew 28:18-20

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 15:29:29 -0400

This is the last (and the 130th!) sermon in the Gospel of Matthew. We are thankful for this great book and for the Great Commission at its conclusion! The message breaks the commission into four points.

Go therefore
Make disciples of all nations
Baptizing and teaching them
I will be with you always

You can watch this message here.

The Red Dragon and the Woman in the Wilderness for 1,260 Days | Revelation 12:7-17

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 18:57:57 -0400

There are three controversies about this chapter that must be addressed before we can apply it appropriately to our lives.

Who is the woman?
What time period do the "1,260 days" (v. 6) and the "time, times, and half a time" (v. 14) refer to?
When is Satan cast out of heaven (vv. 7-12)?

You can watch this message here.

Humility vs. Pride | Sanctification: Week 2

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400

It has been rightly said that pride is our greatest enemy and humility is our greatest friend. While we will struggle with pride until the day we die, we can still grow in humility over time. But how?

You can watch this message here.

Introducing the Great Commission | Matthew 28:16-18

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 16:05:20 -0400

Our mission as the church is clear: We are to make disciples.

And the breadth of the command is global: Of all nations.

Three main points:

A Mountain in Galilee (v. 16)
Some Doubting Disciples (v. 17)
The All-Authoritative Christ (v. 18)

Application (adapted from John MacArthur):

We need to be present and available.
We need to worship the resurrected Jesus.
We need to go to Him with our doubts.
We need to humbly submit to and find great encouragement in His supreme authority over heaven and earth!

You can watch this message here.

The Woman, Her Son, and the Dragon | Revelation 12:1-6

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 16:15:26 -0400

We started back in Revelation for this summer's Table Talk series.

You can watch this message here.

Sanctification: A Critique of Second Blessing Theology in Wesleyan, Kewsick & Pentecostal Traditions

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 14:00:57 -0400

How we understand progressive sanctification and it's relationship to justification is a matter of great importance in the Christian life. Catholic theology falls into heresy by merging to the two together. However, "second blessing" theology has the opposite error of seperating the two entirely. The Reformed view (and, we would argue, the one Scripture clearly teaches) is that justification and sanctification must be clearly distinguished but never chronologically seperated. Justificaiton is a one-time event at conversion, and progressive sanctification begins immediately at conversion. There is no time gap.

You can watch this message here.

Hannah's Desperate Prayer for a Son | 1 Samuel 1:1-20

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 15:53:56 -0400

The message has four points on this powerful passage:

Sovereignty
Suffering
Supplication
Samuel

You can watch this message here.

Whenever Our Heart Condemns Us, God is Greater than our Heart | 1 John 3:19-24

Sat, 07 Jun 2025 17:40:07 -0400

John and Jerrry cover this encouraging text to finish the 1 John series until after the summer, Lord willing!

The Past, Present, & Future Meaning of the Lord's Supper | Matthew 26:26-29

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0400

This message looks back on the past meaning of the Lord's Supper seen in the Passover event and Christ's death for us. It then looks at present meaning the Supper has for the local church. It then looks to the future meaning as this meal points forward to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

You can watch this message here.

Love One Another (and Don't be Like Cain!) | 1 John 3:11-18

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 14:57:32 -0400

John VanDeLinde joins Jerry as they walk through a helpful passage about true love amonst believers.

Why Protestants Reject the Catholic Eucharist: A Critique of Transubstantiation

Thu, 29 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

The Lord's Supper is yet another significant area of difference between Protestant and Catholic theology.

You can watch this message here.

Justification is by Faith Alone, but Not a Faith that Remains Alone

Tue, 27 May 2025 14:21:15 -0400

Justification is by faith alone, but not a faith that remains alone. We look at Romans 3-4 among other passages to show this truth in Scripture.

You can watch this message here.

Judas & Peter: Wordly Grief vs. Godly Grief | Matthew 27:1-10

Mon, 26 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Judas and Peter both betray Jesus on the same night, and yet one we admire and the other is infamous for his betrayal. What made the difference is how they responded to their sin.

You can watch this message here.

God's Love and Our Transformation | 1 John 3:1-10

Sun, 25 May 2025 16:00:35 -0400

Jerry and Scott walk through the first ten verses of 1 John 3.

Do Not Love the World | 1 John 2:15-27

Wed, 21 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Kevin Poe joins Jerry and Scott for the second half of 1 John 2.

Peter's Denial and Genuine Repentance | Matthew 26:31-35, 58, 69-75

Tue, 20 May 2025 18:20:01 -0400

This message has three points:

Sovereignty
Sin
Sorrowful repentance

You can watch this message here.

Does James Contradict Paul? Justification in James, Paul, and Catholic Theology

Mon, 12 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

How we are we to understand what James taught about justification in light of Paul's writings? How as Rome misunderstood James 2?

You can watch this message here.

Jesus and Judas: Sovereign Over Sin? | Matthew 26:1-5, 14-25

Sun, 11 May 2025 15:17:01 -0400

The sovereignty of God is not merely God's knowledge of the future, but His predetermined plan for the future which always comes to pass. How does this get fleshed out regarding the death of Christ specifically? How does this apply to our lives?

You can watch this message here.

A New (and Old!) Commandment | 1 John 2:7-14

Thu, 08 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Jerry, Scott, and Shane walk through these verses together.

If We Confess our Sins | 1 John 1:5-10

Wed, 07 May 2025 11:57:27 -0400

This is week two in 1 John 1 where Nathan again joins Jerry and Scott. It was posted out of order with previous weeks.

Jesus: End or Means? | Matthew 26:6-16

Tue, 06 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

A woman (John tells us it's Mary) pours a year's salary worth of costly ointment on Jesus' head. What some of the disicples call a waste Jesus calls beautiful. What can we learn?

You can watch this message here.

Justification in Catholic and Early Church Theology

Mon, 05 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Catholic apologists often claim that the "Catholic" view of justification was the view of the early church and that the "Protestant" view was not heard of until the Reformation in the 16th century. Is this true?

You can watch this message here.

The Meanging of the Empty Tomb: Evidence for the Resurrection | Matthew 28:11-15

Sun, 04 May 2025 15:27:47 -0400

What is the evidence for the bodily resurrection of Jesus?

You can watch this message here.

How Roman Catholicism Gets Justification Wrong

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Justification is one of the central and most important areas of difference between Protestant and Catholics.

You can watch this message here.

We Have an Advocate with the Father | 1 John 2:1-6

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 10:18:52 -0400

Jerry and Scott are joined by Kevin Poe as they begin to walk through the reassure passage at the begining of 1 John 2.

EASTER: The Truth & Meaning of Jesus's Resurrection | Matthew 27:55-28:10

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

This Easter message has four points:

The burial (27:57-60)
The guards (27:62-66; 28:4)
The women (27:55-56, 61; 28:1-8)
The appearance (28:9-10)

You can watch this message here.

Good Friday: "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" | Matthew 27:45-54

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 11:04:05 -0400

Here are the four points of Scott's message:

Darkness
Forsaken
Salvation
Death defeated!

You can watch this message here.

The Crucifixion of King Jesus, the Son of God | Matthew 27:27-44

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 08:57:57 -0400

Here are the three points from Greg's message:

Everything that happened to Jesus was according to God's eternal plan
Everything that happened to Jesus was for us and our salvation
Christian, this is your identity!

You can watch this message here.

Introducing John's Frist Letter | 1 John 1:1-4

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:31:21 -0400

Jerry and Scott are joined by Nathan Long for the first week of 1 John.

Jesus Before Pilate | Matthew 27:11-26

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Here we examine Jesus's three-part political trial before Pilate and Herod.

You can watch this message here.

Problems with the Catholic Sacramental System

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 19:54:42 -0400

Two massives ideas rest under the surface of all Catholic theology that must be understood. There is the nature-grace inderdependence and the Christ-Church interconnection.

You can watch this message here.

God Will Supply All Your Needs | Philippians 4:14-23

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 14:24:38 -0400

Jerry is joined by Ian and Austin for one last week in Philippians as they finish this great New Testament letter.

You can watch this message here.

Why We Reject the Catholic Apocrypha

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 11:25:38 -0400

What do we do with the seven Apocryphal books that Catholics have formally declared as part of the Old Testament canon upon threat of an anathema? What did the early church teach? What can we learn from Jesus and the Apostles on this?

You can watch this message here.

Jesus on Trial Before the High Priest | Matthew 26:57-68

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 09:36:28 -0400

You can watch this message here.

Judas' Betrayal and Jesus' Submission | Matthew 26:47-56

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Main idea: Contrast Judas and Peter with Jesus. Believe, with Jesus, that everything in human history — even the worst things — are part of God’s good and sovereign plan for His people, including the betrayal of Jesus by Judas.

Judas’ betrayal (vv. 47-50)
Peter’s violent response (v. 51)
Jesus’ complete submission to Scripture (vv. 52-56)

You can watch this message here.

The Peace of God and the God of Peace | Philippians 4:7-13

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ian and Austin join Jerry and Scott for week two of Philippians 4. Here we focus on fnding God's peace through prayer and right meditation.

You can watch this message here.

How We Got Our New Testament Canon (without an Infallible Church)

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 16:42:51 -0400

This week we continue to argue for the Protestant view of the formation and reliability of the NT canon.

You can watch this message here.

A Protestant Defense of the New Testament Canon: Critiquing the Catholic Denial of Sola Scriptura

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 11:02:55 -0400

How do we know which books should be in the Bible without an infallible decree from the church?

You can watch this message here.

Unity, Joy, Peace, and Prayer | Philippians 4:1-7

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ian Webster and Austin Dobbs join Jerry and Scott as they begin chapter four of Philippians.

You can watch this message here.

Eight Questions about Gethsemane | Matthew 26:30-46

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:18:00 -0400

Main idea: Let us respond in humble worship at the loving of Christ seen in His embrace of suffering in our place and for our sin in the Garden of Gethsemane.

What is the setting? (vv 17-29)
What is the significance of Jesus singing? (v 30)
What warning does Jesus give? (vv 31-35)
What makes Gethsemane so strange? (vv 36-38)
How does Jesus pray? (vv 39, 42, 44)
How do the disciples act? (vv 40-41, 43, 45)
What does Jesus pray about? (vv 39, 42)
How should we respond?

Questions to consider:

Read Matthew 26:30. How do great Christian songs, hymns, and the Psalms help us when we are going through hard times? Why do you think God commands us to sing and not just speak to Him?
Read vv. 31-35. What all can we learn from Peter's arrogance here?
As you look over vv. 36-44, what is most striking to you about Jesus's behavior in Gethsemane? What can we learn from Him about prayer?
What is the most stirring or impactful aspect of Gethsemane for you personally? Why?

You can watch this message here.

The Masculine Mandate (Part 3): Godly Fatherhood | Dr. Richard Phillips

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 14:00:00 -0400

The messages Dr. Phillips gave were from the Stay the Course, Black Mountain Men's Retreat held this year at Lakewood Baptist Church in Gainesville, Georgia. Dr. Phillips pastors the historic Second Presbyterian Church in Greenville, South Carolina. He is the author of many books, including The Masculine Mandate and his commentaries in the Reformed Expository Commentary series.

You can watch this message here.

The Masculine Mandate (Part 2): Husbands Love Your Wives! | Dr. Richard D. Phillips

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 21:46:27 -0400

You can watch this message here.

The Masculine Mandate (Part 1): Servant Lordship | Dr. Richard Phillips

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

You can watch this message here.

The Sheep and the Goats | Matthew 25:31-46

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

This passage has often been misused because of how one phrase has been neglected. What is Jesus really teaching here?

You can watch this message here.

Our Citizenship is in Heaven | Philippians 3:17-21

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 22:40:12 -0400

This is the last week on Philippians 3.

You can watch this message here.

A Protestant Critique of the Catholic Church on Scripture & Tradition

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

How are we to understand what Jesus and Paul teach about Scripture and tradition in the New Testament? How does it compare to what Rome teaches?

You can watch this message here.

The Parable of the Talents | Matthew 25:14-30

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Here are the three points:

The master's entrustment
The two faithful servants
The unfaithful servant

Application:

Live in light of Christ's return
Be faithful with what God has entrusted us
Don't play the comparison game
Fight against the sin of slothfulness
Be encouraged: True Christians will receive an abundant reward

You can watch this message here.

Forget What Lies Behind and Strain Forward to What Lies Ahead | Philippians 3:12-16

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:15:37 -0500

Jerry is joined by Steve Crouse, Mitchell Mansfield, and Matt Kavis to walk through this brief but important passage.

You can watch this message here.

I Count Everything as Loss Because of the Surpassing Worth of Knowing Christ | Philippians 3:1-11

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 08:33:36 -0500

You can watch this message here.

Sola Scriptura: Scripture as the Church's Only Infallible Authority

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What does "sola Scriptura" really mean and why is it such an important doctrine concerning the unique authority of God's word? This has been called the "formal cause" of the Reformation in response to the erroneous teaching of the Catholic Church's three-legged stool of authority.

You can watch this message here.

The Parable of the Ten Virgins | Matthew 25:1-13

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 08:22:13 -0500

This may be one of the most unsettling parables that Jesus ever told. May we examine ourselves rightly and not be deceived about our own salvation.

You can watch this message here.

Questioning Catholicism: Introduction (Week 1)

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In recent years there appears to have been an increasing tendency, especially amongst young adulters, to move from Protestantism to Catholicism. This series is meant to persusade Protestants not to abandon the five solas of the Reformation and to show reasons why official Roman Catholic teaching has many serious errors in what it teaches.

You can watch this message here.

Be Ready & Stay Awake!: He is Coming Like a Thief | Matthew 24:42-51

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This is the last sermon in Matthew 24. Here we cover two brief parables concerning being prepared for the Lord's return.

Stay Awake!: Ongoing Faithfulness is the Readiness that Receives Great Reward (vv 42-47)
Don’t Fall into Worldly Sleep: Ongoing Worldliness is the Wickedness that Receives Great Punishment (vv 48-51)

Main idea: Be always ready for the Lord’s return. Don’t let the passions of the flesh or the pleasures of this world lull you into spiritual sleep. Eternity is at stake. The joys of reward and the horrors of judgment will both be unspeakably great. So, whatever it costs and whatever it takes: Stay awake!

You can watch this message here.

Timothy & Epaphroditus: How to Seek Not Our Own Interests, But Those of Jesus Christ | Philippians 2:19-30

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 12:12:59 -0500

The two Christ-like examples in this passage are often overlooked. However, the actions of Timothy and Epaphroditus are very worthy of our time and attention.

You can watch this message here.

Left Behind?: Are We Near Christ's Return? | Matthew 24:36-42

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 21:33:45 -0500

The wrong audio file was originally added to this link. We apologize for this inconvenience. It has now been corrected!

You can watch this message here.

How Should I Prepare for Church ... As a Non-Sabbatarian?

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 14:08:05 -0500

This is our last week on the long Progressive Covenantalism series. Here we close out the topic of the Sabbath and discuss how we as non-Sabbatarians should prepare our hearts and minds for the Sunday gathering each week.

You can watch this message here.

The Abomination of Desolation ... (in Daniel, Jesus, & Paul)

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Jesus said, "So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), ..." (Matthew 24:15). What is the background in Daniel to this strange phrase "abomination of desolation"? How do Jesus and Paul pick up on this kind of idea on the New Testament?

You can watch this message here.

Work Out Your Salvation, for God Works in You | Philippians 2:12-18

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

How can we be a light in a dark and twisted generation?

You can watch this message here.

The Astonishing Humility of Jesus | Philippians 2:1-10

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 11:00:13 -0500

This is a stirring meditation on how our call to humility should be rooted in Christ's astonishing humbling of Himself for our salvation.

You can watch this message here.

Sabbath Years, Jubilee, and Sabbath as Shadow in Christ

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Here we discuss perhaps the single most important passage on the Sabbath in the New Testament. It comes from Colossians 2.

You can watch this message here.

This Generation Will Not Pass Away Until All These Things Take Place | Matthew 24:32-35

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 15:04:19 -0500

This passage contains a very misunderstood and disputed statement from Jesus. What did Jesus really mean?

You can watch this message here.

What Does the New Testament Teach about the Sabbath?

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

There is a surprising silence regarding Sabbath commands for believers after the resurrection of Jesus. Never once in all of Paul's letters or the general epistles are Christians commanded to keep the Sabbath. Instead we find something quite different in the New Covenant era.

You can watch this message here.

Why I'm Not (But Almost Was!) a Preterist | Matthew 24:27-31

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 22:42:00 -0500

There are a growing number of genuine Christian pastors who hold to partial Preterism. However, there are good reasons to question this view.

You can watch this message here.

To Live is Christ, to Die is Gain | Philippians 1:19-30

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 21:46:05 -0500

Paul speaks with great desire for Christ to be glorified in his body whether by life or death. How could this be?

You can watch this message here.

Tribulation, False Christs, and False Prophets ... Now! | Matthew 24:22-26

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

After we attempt to get the challenging structure of this passage in place, then we arrive at the practical application concerning false christs and false prophets that lead people astray in every generation. For this we must develop discernment and keep our love for the truth from growing cold.

You can watch this message here.

Was the Sabbath only for Israel?

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 10:04:22 -0500

Is Sunday now the Christian Sabbath? Or was the Sabbath only the sign of the Mosaic Covenant with Israel?

You can watch this message here.

Paul's Joy from Jail | Philippians 1:12-18

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

You can watch this message here.

The Majesty of God | Psalm 8

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Here is Greg's outline for what we see in Psalm 8:

God's majesty around us
God's majesty above us
God's majesty in us
God's majesty through us

You can watch this message here.

Introducing Philippians: The Epistle of Joy! | Philippians 1:1-11

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 15:35:47 -0500

You can watch this message here.

Is Sunday the Christian Sabbath?

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 10:53:56 -0500

Should Christians in the New Covenant era observe the Old Testament's Sabbath regulations? Does the NT teach that Sunday is the Christian Sabbath?

You can watch this message here.

The Great Tribulation: When, Where, & Why? | Matthew 24:15-21

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 22:02:28 -0500

Main idea: The "great tribulation" of Matthew 24:21 refers to God's judgment poured out on Jerusalem, through the Roman army, for their rejection of Christ. However, this is but a preview of final judgment and a testimony to our need to receive Jesus.

Outline: Five reasons v. 21's "great tribulation" refers to 70 AD:

It fits the flow of vv 15-21
How the phrase “great tribulation” is used in the rest of the NT.
Scripture regularly uses hyperbolic language this way
70 AD really was unspeakably horrific
How Jesus’s speaks of 70 AD in Luke’s gospel is strong confirmation

Luke’s parallel text makes clear what the "great tribuation/distress" is:

Matthew 24:19-21, “…alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! …. [21] For then there will be great tribulation [θλῖψις μεγάλη], ...”
Luke 21:23-24, “Alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! For there will be great distress [ἀνάγκη μεγάλη] upon the earth and wrath against this people. [Then he tells us what the ‘great distress’ will be:] [24] They will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive among all nations, and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.”

[Mark borrowed the "when, where, & why" part of the sermon title from Jeff Durban's message on Apologia Studios here.]

You can watch this message here.

The Abomination of Desolation | Matthew 24:15-20

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 22:47:23 -0500

Main idea: We can trust Jesus, along with all of God’s Word, at all times, and especially when life is hard.

Outline: Why do I think vv 15-21 refer to 70 AD?

The disciples just asked when the temple standing in their day would be destroyed (v 3).
The details of vv 15-21 match the local tribulation of Jerusalem in 70 AD.
Jesus’s recent words and actions have warned of the destruction of this very temple.
Jesus’s use of the phrase “this generation” in v 34.
The “abomination of desolation” in Daniel matches Jerusalem’s destruction in AD 70.

You can watch this message here.

Why Did Jesus Come to Earth? | Mark 10:45

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 17:20:05 -0500

Scott preached a stirring Christmas message based on Mark 10:45. If you are getting distracte this Christmas, please take thirty minutes to listen and worship Christ afresh!

The Son of Man...

Came
Not to be served but to serve
To give His life as a ransom for many

You can watch this message here.

Believer's Baptism: A Recap and Summary

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 13:59:20 -0500

This is the closing week on the baptism topic. Here we summarize some of the major arguments covered over the last few weeks and attmept to clarify one of the central points regarding the difference between the Old Covenant and the New.

You can watch this message here.

The End of Ephesians and an Exhortation to Pray | Ephesians 6:18-24

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 09:26:03 -0500

This week the teaching team finished the book of Ephesians. Here Paul gives us a significant exhortation to pray!

You can watch this message here.

Wars and Rumors of Wars: Introducing the Olivet Discourse | Matthew 24:1-14

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 21:45:35 -0500

The Olivet Discourse is found in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21. It is probably the most disputed passge in Matthew and the one where genuine Christians may have the greatest disagreements. What exactly is Jesus teaching and how does it relate to Christians today?

You can watch this message here.

What Covenant Theology Misses: A Progressive Covenantal Critique of Infant Baptism

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 12:04:33 -0500

Is covenant theology correct regarding its understanding of the "covenant of grace"? How does this issue impact the issue of infant baptism?

You can watch this message here.

Putting on the Armor of God | Ephesians 6:10-17

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:11:10 -0500

Although this text may be familiar to many, even from a young age, it contains much wisdom for us in how to "stand against the schemes of the devil" in this life!

You can watch this message here.

Jesus Laments Over Jerusalem | Matthew 23:29-39

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 21:54:41 -0500

Main idea: Warnings and laments are both necessary for us to give at times. We must not do only one or the other. We also must receive Christ’s warnings and laments where needed in our lives.

Jesus’s Denunciation (v 29-36)
Jesus’s Lamentation (v 37-39)

You can watch this message here.

Jesus Pronounces Four More Woes on the Pharisees | Matthew 23:16-28

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 18:00:00 -0500

Jesus pronounces four more woes on the Pharisees because...

The Pharisees devalue God (vs. 16-22)
The Pharisees debase God's law (vs. 23-24)
The Pharisees diminish true holiness (vs. 25-26)
The Pharisees display false righteousness (vs. 27-28)

You can watch this message here.

Children, Parents, Servants, Masters | Ephesians 6:1-9

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 18:00:00 -0500

In this passage Paul instructs us in how children should relate to parents; fathers to children; servants to masters; and masters to servants. There is much application to be gained from this passage!

You can watch this message here.

Husbands and Wives | Ephesians 5:22-33

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 10:17:21 -0500

In this passage, Paul gives some of the most detailed instructions about how marriage is meant to work in relationship to the gospel in all of Scripture.

Why Did Infant Baptism Become the Main View of the Early Church?

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

One of the more puzzling questions we address here regarding infant baptism is this: If it was not taught by the Apostles or the New Testament, how is it that by the 300's AD it had become the dominant view of the church and stayed that way for well over a thousand years?

You can watch this message here.

The Root and Danger of Spiritual Pride and Hypocrisy | Matthew 23:1-15

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 09:18:36 -0500

Main point: Religious pride and hypocrisy are rooted in the love of human praise over loving and delighting in God.

The Pharisees do not practice what they preach (v 1-3)
The Pharisees overburden their followers (v 4)
The Pharisees do all to be seen by others (v 5-12)
The Pharisees lead people to hell (v 13-15)

You can listen to this message here.

Why We Practice Believer's Baptism

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this message, we continue working through some of the most important passages in the Bible on baptism. Does the NT really support infant baptism or believer's baptism?

You can watch this message here.

The Great Command and David's Great Son | Matthew 22:34-46

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 21:40:01 -0500

Jesus is asked about the greatest commandment and then responds by asking the religious leaders to identify more clearly the Messiah.

Here is the sermon outline:

David’s Great Son (v 41-46)
The Great Commandment (v 34-40)

You can watch this message here.

Should We Baptize Infants?

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We continue to make the case for believer's baptism. This week we walk through some important New Testament passages.

You can watch this message here.

Jesus and the Sadducees on the Resurrection | Matthew 22:23-33

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Here is Scott's sermon outline:

The Sadducees question Jesus about the resurrection
Jesus silences the Sadducees
The crowd is astonished at the teaching of Jesus

Application:

We should desire to know Scripture better
We should pray to know God's power
We should cherish marriage now, realizing it's temporary
We should live in light of the resurrection

You can watch this message here.

Walk Wisely and Redeem the Time | Ephesains 5:11-21

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 12:51:19 -0500

We must take advantage of the time that the Lord gives us in this world!

You can watch this message here.

2024 Election Reflections

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 13:22:43 -0500

How should Christians think and pray the day after this major election?

You can watch this here.

The Government's Role: Abortion, Marriage, and Religious Liberty

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Here are the three points of the message:

Governments should protect innocent life
Governments shoud protect marriage, family, and fruitfulness
Governments should preserve religious liberty

You can watch this message here.

Infant Baptism vs. Believer's Baptism | Week 1

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We have officially returned to the Progressive Covenantalism series from before the summer. Here we are dealing with Covenant Theology.

You can watch this message here.

Walk in Love, as Christ Loved Us | Ephesians 5:1-10

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 09:34:41 -0500

Thomas and Jared joined the panel to start Ephesians 5!

You can watch this message here.

How Should Christians Vote? [Sermon]

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 09:16:44 -0400

How can Christians think about politics and voting from a biblical perspective this election season?

You can watch this message here.

How to Live in Christ: Put Off & Put On | Ephesians 4:17-24

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 14:51:16 -0400

We must put off the old man and put on the new man in Christ!

You can watch this message here.

The Authority of Caesar and God | Matthew 22:15-22

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 13:03:05 -0400

Here are six implications from this passage:

The pagan state is a legitimate state
The Church is transnational, not a theocratic nation
Christians should be good citizens and give Caesar his due
Caesar’s realm is not above or beside but within God’s realm
Civil disobedience is sometimes necessary
We must give ourselves entirely to God

(Mark adapted points from Kevin DeYoung and Mark Dever.)

You can watch this message here.

Natural Law and the Government

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This is our last week on church and state issues in Sunday school. In this last message we attempt to show that natural law is how governments are to find their moral norms if they are not to be explicitly Christian.

You can watch this message here.

Living in a Pagan Culture | Daniel 1

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

On Monday, Greg gave a message to college students at our church for a BCM event. He discussed from Daniel 1 how to live in a pagan culture, as Daniel and his three friends experienced in the Bablyonian exile.

Equip the Saints for the Work of Ministry | Ephesians 4:11-16

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 11:06:18 -0400

When Christ ascended to heaven He gave gifts to the church for the building up of the saints.

You can watch this message here.

God, Government, and the Christian | Genesis 8:20-9:17 [Sermon]

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 17:30:37 -0400

Scripture roots human government in a post-fall, post-flood world through the Noachic Covenant.

You can watch this message here.

Walk in a Manner Worthy of Your Calling | Ephesians 4:1-10

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 11:59:12 -0400

Paul urges us to walk, that is live our lives, in a manner worthy of the calling we have recieved in Christ. This is the turning point in Ephesians where the indicatives of chapters 1-3 give way to the imperatives of chapters 4-6.

You can watch this message here.

A Critique of Stephen Wolfe & Doug Wilson on Christian Nationalism | Part 2

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This week we continue the critique of Christian Nationalism from last week as presented by Wolfe and Wilson.

You can watch this message here.

The Parable of the Wedding Feast | Matthew 22:1-14

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 10:25:49 -0400

Main idea: We are all invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb. How your heart is responding — even today! — to this gracious invitation of our great God and King is of eternal importance.

Two Gracious Invitations and Two Unworthy Responses (vv. 1-8)
An Expanded Invitation and a Third Unworthy Response (vv. 9-14)

You can watch this message here.

Paul's Powerful Prayer for the Ephesians | Ephesians 3:14-21

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 10:20:19 -0400

This week the teaching team walked through Paul's second prayer in the book of Ephesians. There is much here to fuel our hearts and prayer lives!

You can watch this message here.

A Critique of Stephen Wolfe & Doug Wilson on Christian Nationalism | Part 1

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 08:34:34 -0400

Doug Wilson said, "If you want to attack Christian Nationalism from now on, and do so seriously, you're going to have to contend with [Stephen] Wolfe's book." That book is The Case for Christian Nationalism. Here we point out some serious problems we have with Wolfe's book.

You can watch this message here.

Storms, Providence, Purpose, and Hope | A Sermon in Response to Hurricane Helene

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 22:29:05 -0400

Greg preached a sermon responding on Hurricane Helene. He references various passages of Scripture that show God's providence over storms in our lives, but literal and metaphorical, and how He has good purposes for His people in them.

You can watch this message here.

The Treasure of the Gospel | Ephesians 3:7-13

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 11:08:20 -0400

Paul writes, "To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ."

You can watch this message here.

The Place Where Christians Disagree about Christian Nationalism

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 10:20:47 -0400

As we overview seven views of religion and politics, we spend most of our time on postitions four and five, which is where the vast majority of Christian leaders are today. What differentiates these two views and which view appears to be more biblically faithful?

You can watch this message here.

The Parable of the Wicked Tenants of the Vineyard | Matthew 21:33-46

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 20:21:23 -0400

Main idea: God is patient yet will eventually judge those who bear no fruit and reject His Son.

The Failure of Israel (v 33-39)
The Judgment on Israel (v 40-42)
The Church and its Fruit (v 43-46)

You can watch this message here.

Seven Views of Religion and Politics

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -0400

We overview seven views of religion and government. We relied heavily on this helpful article by Andrew David Naselli during this Sunday school.

You can watch this message here.

Submission to the Authority of Jesus | Matthew 21:23-32

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0400

Main idea: We should humble ourselves and gladly submit to the authority of Jesus rather than outwardly claim to obey God while actually being enslaved to what people think.

Jesus's authority displayed and questioned (v 23)
Jesus's question about John's authority (v 24-27)
Jesus's parable about obeying God's authority (v 28-32)

You can watch this message here.

Paul: A Prisoner of Christ for the Sake of the Gentiles | Ephesians 3:1-6

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 08:46:09 -0400

Paul has given up his freedom and become a literal prisoner of Christ for the sake of making Him known to the Gentiles.

You can watch this message here.

Christian Nationalism?: The Noahic Covenant and the Purpose of Government

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

The main idea: The Noahic Covenant is foundational for understanding the role of governments today.

You can watch this message here.

The Cleansing of the Temple and the Cursing of the Fig Tree | Matthew 21:12-22

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400

Here is Scott's sermon outline:

Jesus cleanses the temple (v 12-13)
Jesus heals the blind and lame and receives the praise of children (v 14-17)
Jesus curses the fig tree (v 18-19)
Jesus uses the fig tree to teach the power of believing prayer (v 20-22)

You can watch this message here.

The Dividing Wall of Hostility Broken Down in Christ | Ephesians 2:14-22

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 08:50:35 -0400

Christians find unity in Christ that transcends all other barriers.

You can watch this message here.

Palm Sunday: Jesus Publicly Tells the World Who He Is | Matthew 20:29-21:11

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Main idea: Jesus publicly tells the world who He is: He is the Davidic, Merciful, Sight-Giving, Divine, Prophesied, Humble, International, Saving, and Soon-Coming King.

Jesus is the Davidic King
Jesus is the Merciful King
Jesus is the Sight-Giving King
Jesus is the Divine King
Jesus is the Prophesied King
Jesus is the Humble King
Jesus is the International King
Jesus is the Saving King
Jesus is the Soon-Coming King

Mark wanted to make clear that he received help with this outline from a commentary.

You can watch this message here.

Remember What You Have Been Saved From | Ephesians 2:8-13

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 09:55:52 -0400

The first command in Ephesians, and the only command in the first three chapters, is for us to remember. We are to remember who we were before Christ saved us so that our joy and gratitude can grow!

You can watch this message here.

What God Says (and Jesus shows us!) About Authority | WCA Chapel

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:14:01 -0400

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, "We ask you, brothers, mto respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, [13] and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves."

Main point: Proper authority is necessary and good. It should be used humbly to serve others and is to be respected and obeyed.

What God says about Authority
What God says about Respecting Authority
What Jesus Demonstrated about Authority

Christian Nationalism?: How the Biblical Covenants Affect Church and State Issues

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Christian nationalism is a relatively new phrase that is coming out of a more general discussion about what Scripture teaches about church and state issues. We began a new series on these issues Sunday.

You can watch this message here.

Dead in Tresspasses and Sins | Ephesians 2:1-7

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400

What did God save us from? And what are we saved for?

You can watch this message here.

Humility: True Greatness | Matthew 20:17-28

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 20:10:18 -0400

Main point: True greatness is found not in chasing worldly power and position, but in humbly serving others for their good.

Humble Savior (v 17-19)
Proud Disciples (v 20-24)
True Greatness (v 25-28)

You can watch this message here.

Paul's Prayer for the Ephesians | Ephesians 1:15-23

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Let's learn to pray by paying careful attention to Holy Spirit inspired prayers in Scripture. And Paul's model prayer in Ephesians 1 is a great place to go!

You can watch this message here.

The Laborers in the Vineyard: Reckoning with 'Unfair' Grace | Matthew 20:1-16

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 20:43:05 -0400

I. God’s grace is not distributed on human merit

Therefore be thankful

II. God’s grace is never less than just

Therefore don’t grumble

III. God’s grace of eternal life is given equally to all believers

Therefore don’t begrudge God’s generosity to the 'last' and 'least.'

You can watch this message here.

The Rich Young Ruler: A Camel through a Needle's Eye | Matthew 19:16-30

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Here are the three sermon points:

Self-Righteousness (v 16-22)
Worldly Riches (v 23-26)
Eternal Reward (v 27-30)

You can watch this message here.

God Works All Things According to the Counsel of His Will | Ephesians 1:7-14

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 13:57:11 -0400

Jerry, Scott, Zach Petty, and Emory Linder do a great job bringing out the rich gospel truths of Ephesians 1:7-14!

You can watch this message here.

Chosen in Christ Before the Foundation of the World | Ephesians 1:1-6

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Jerry, Scott, Zach Petty, and Emory Linder started off our series through Ephesians on Sunday. Listen and be encouraged!

You can watch this message here.

The Gifts of Marriage and Singleness | Matthew 19:10-12

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 21:48:05 -0400

This is our last sermon in the marriage series. It begins with an introductory review about marriage and then moves into two points about singleness:

Introductory review about marriage
Jesus on the gift of singleness
Paul on the gift of singleness

You can watch this message here.

Missions: The Big Picture and Practical Takeaways

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 09:44:05 -0400

This is our fifth and last week on missions this summer. We looked at the big picture of missions and then focused on some practical takeaways for our church going forward.

You can watch this message here.

The Children and the Rich Young Ruler | Matthew

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:05:04 -0400

Here is Scott's outline:

The disciples, little children, and Jesus
The rich young ruler and Jesus
The rich young ruler and little children

You can watch this message here.

The Two Witnesses Lie Dead for Three and a Half Days | Revelation 11

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 14:41:11 -0400

In our last week in Revelation this summer, we picked up where we left off last week and covered the whole of chapter 11 ending briefly on the hope of heaven.

You can watch this message here.

The Importance of Getting Missions Right

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This may be the most important of the five weeks on missions in this five week series. Here we reviewed some of the most important highlights of the last three weeks and built upon them.

You can watch this message here.

“Because of Your Hardness of Heart”: How Divorce is Regulated in the OT and the NT | Matthew 19:1-10

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:18:35 -0400

Here is the sermon outline:

Moses on Divorce (Deuteronomy 24:1-4)
Jesus on Divorce (Matthew 19:1-10)
Paul on Divorce (1 Corinthians 7:15)

You can watch this message here.

The Two Witnesses of Revelation 11 | Revelation 11:1-6

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 09:57:27 -0400

What do the temple, the time period, and the two witnesses refer to in Revelation 11? This is an in-house debate among genuine believers, but it still is worth considering carefully. We believe this passge is calling to church to faithful witness in this age while we face persecution from the world and the Lord's presence now and eventual vindication in the end.

You can watch this message here.

"Except for Porneia": Understanding Christ's Most Important Statement on Divorce and Remarriage | Matthew 19:9

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Matthew 19:9 is the most important recorded sentence we have from Jesus during His earthly ministry about divorce and remarriage. "And I say to you: whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery." Yet godly Christians have differing views of how to interpret this sentence, especially the exception clause, "except for sexual immorality." What exactly does "sexual immorality" (Greek: porneia) refer to here?

You can watch this message here.

What about Those Who Have Never Heard About Jesus? | Romans 1, 10, & 15

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 09:12:04 -0400

What we believe about the fate of those who've never heard the gospel will greatly impact our understanding of missions and its necessity. Paul helps us understand the necessity of the "beautiful feet" of missionaries because of his clear teaching on this matter in Romans.

You can watch this messsage here.

Why Should Revelation be Read Mainly Symbolically not Literally? | Revelation 10

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 12:15:04 -0400

For first half of the message, we argue that much of Revelation is intended to be taken symbolically rather than literally. For the second half, we walk through Revelation 10 and John's commission to eat the sweet scroll of God's word (even if the judgments in it are bitter to his stomach) and to proclaim this message to all, whether they listen or not. We argue that in chapter 11, John's role is in many ways given to the entire church as a witnessing community.

You can watch this message here.

Jesus on Divorce and Remarriage | Matthew 19:1-9

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This outline relies heavily on Kevin DeYoung's very helpful sermon outline on divorce here.

Marriage is intended by God to be a lifelong commitment
Remarriage is permitted, but not required, after the death of a spouse
All divorce happens because of sin, but not all divorce is sinful
Divorce and remarriage are permitted, but not required, for sexual immorality
Divorce and remarriage are permitted when a believing spouse is deserted by an unbelieving spouse
Biblically unlawful divorce followed by remarriage is adultery
Biblically permissible divorce allows for remarriage
Improperly divorced and remarried Christians should stay as they are, but repent and be forgiven of their past sins and make whatever amends are necessary.

You can watch this message here.

What is a Missionary? | Acts 13-14 [Missions: Week 2]

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 19:24:16 -0400

Not every Christian is a missionary. And not every place a Christian goes is a mission field, even when doing evangelism. We must reserve the special meaning of a missionary lest, as has been said, when everything is missions, nothing is missions. How does Paul's first "missionary journey" help us define the task of a missionary?

You can watch this message here.

The Seven Trumpets and Demonic Locusts | Revelation 8:6 - 9:21

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 18:00:00 -0400

We argue that the seven trumpets (Revelation 8-11) repeat the same period of time covered by the seven seals (Revelation 6-7), which begins at Christ's ascension and lasts until His return. However, the fifth and sixth trumpets use heighted symbolism to portray an army of demonic locusts who come to torment the souls of those who worship idols and demons rather than the true God. This captivating and fascinating text is too often ignored or misinterpreted. What does it really mean?

You can watch this message here.

What is the Mission of the Church? | Matthew 28:18-20 [Missions: Week 1]

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 02:00:00 -0400

What is the mission of the church? We argue that the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) is the primary task the Lord has given the church to accomplish by His grace until the end of the age. What does this mean for our church and for missions generally?

You can watch this message here.

Jesus on God's Good Design for Marriage | Matthew 19:1-6

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 21:58:52 -0400

These are the six sermon points:

The Definition of Marriage
The Covenant of Marriage
The Companionship of Marriage
The One-Flesh Union of Marriage
The Fruitfulness of Marriage
The Illustration of Marriage

You can watch this message here.

Problems with the Pretribulation Rapture and an Encouragement to Pray | Revelation 8:1-5

Sat, 29 Jun 2024 10:05:22 -0400

The timing of the rapture in relationship to the tribulation of the seals, trumpets, and bowls is not a matter of heresy no matter which of the major views you take. However, it does greatly impact how we interpret Revelation 6-19. If there is a rapture before the tribulation, then the church is not on earch during those chapters. If the rapture is after the tribulation (which is what we argue for here), then the church will be on earth during this time and must be ready to endure tribulation throughout the church age, especially as it reaches its highest point just before Christ's return.

You can watch this message here.

The Surprising Twist Ending of Jonah | Jonah 4

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

If we were reading Jonah for the first time, it may seem like the end of chapter 3 is the happy ending of the book. Chapter four, however, would likely catch us off guard. Jonah's childish temper tantrum at the spiritual awakening in Nineveh is shocking. However, we soon find out we have some of Jonah dwelling in all of our hearts. May the Lord's patience with Nineveh and Jonah by an encouragement to us!

You can watch this message here.

The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant | Matthew 18:21-35

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 08:00:59 -0400

Here is the sermon outline on how Christians who have been forgiven so much already by God must extend this forgiveness to others who come to us in repentance:

The master's elaborate forgiveness (v 21-27)
The servant's unthinkable unwillingness to extend that forgiveness to others (v 28-35)
Some ways to apply this passage

You can watch this message here.

The 144,000, the Tribulation, and the Great Multitude | Revelation 7:9-17

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 08:17:52 -0400

We continued through Revelation 7, this time spending some expended time considering the what and when of the great tribulation period and the countless multitude.

You can watch this message here.

The Great Awakening in Nineveh | Jonah 3

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 16:19:48 -0400

The Lord uses His powerful word to humble a proud city and bring it to repentance. His word carries the same power today!

You can watch this message here.

Membership, Discipline, and Authority in the Local Church | Matthew 18:12-20

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 21:39:50 -0400

Jesus provides us with three steps for how church discipline should be done regarding confrontation:

One on one
Two or three
The whole church

You can watch this message here.

Who Are the 144,000? | Revelation 7:1-8

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 09:35:23 -0400

There is much friendly debate amongst genuine Christians regarding the identity of the 144,000 in the book of Revelation. We decided to spend a whole evening addressing this issue because it can have dramatic ramifications for how one interprets the book of Revelation as a whole.

You can watch this message here.

Jonah's Prayer from the Belly of the Fish | Jonah 2

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

The teaching team walks through Jonah 2 where Jonah prays to the Lord from the belly of the great fish. There is much for us to learn from this fascinating part of Jonah's story!

You can watch this message here.

Life in the Church / Kingdom | Matthew 18:1-10

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 08:01:42 -0400

Here is the outline to Scott's helpful message on this often misunderstood passsage.

The necessity of conversion (v 1-4)
- Turn and become a child to enter in
Believers should be kindly received and not led into sin (v 5-6)
- Direct temptation
- Provocation
- Our bad example
We must determine not to be stumbling blocks (v 7)
We must deal drastically with our sin (v 8-9)
We must not look down on other believers (v 10)

You can watch this message here.

The Martyrs Before the Altar and the Wrath of the Lamb | Revelation 6:9-17

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 08:17:19 -0400

The first four seals that Jesus, the Slain Lamb, opens are the four horsemen that we covered last week. We argued that the horsemen run throughout church history under Christ's sovereignty and bring conquest, bloodshed, famine, and death to a portion of mankind until Christ returns. In this message we see the fifth seal opened which shows the slain martyrs before the altar in heaven calling out for God's justice and then their prayer is answered at Christ's return as the sixth seal is opened and the Christ-rejecting world faces the terrifying "wrath of the Lamb."

You can watch this message here.

Jonah Flees from the Lord | Jonah 1

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

The teaching team began our brief series in Jonah on Sunday. When Jonah flees from the word of God, he also flees from the God of the word.

You can watch this message here.

The Greatness and Lowliness of Jesus | Matthew 17:1-13, 22-27

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 08:59:39 -0400

The greatness and lowliness of…

Jesus on and off the mountain (v 1-9, 22-23)
John the Baptist in his Elijah-like ministry (v 10-13)
Jesus regarding the temple tax (v 24-27)

You can watch this message here.

How to Interpret Revelation | The Slain Lamb, Seven Seals, & Four Horsemen of Revelation 5:1-6:8

Fri, 31 May 2024 15:14:21 -0400

We began our summer Table Talk series picking up where we left off last summer, in Revelation 5-6. The teaching team spent time reminding us of various ways this book has been interpreted by Bible believing Christians over the years and then argue for the eclectic idealist position which emphasizes symbolism and a recapitulating structure, especially in chapters 6-20.

You can watch this message here.

Has God Rejected Israel? By No Means! | Romans 9-11

Mon, 27 May 2024 14:46:57 -0400

We have seen in Acts an initial surge of acceptance of the gospel among ethnic Jews in Acts 1-7. However, from Acts 13-28 we see the majority of ethnic Israel being hardened to the gospel while the Gentiles flood in. This issue is dealt with extensively by Paul in Romans, esepcially chapters 9-11. Has God completely rejected Israel?

You can watch this message here.

With Jesus in the School of Faith (Again!) | Matthew 17:14-21

Sun, 26 May 2024 21:26:02 -0400

Introduction: A Hidden Glory (17:9)

A Pleading Father (17:14-15a)
A Perilous Condition (17:15, 18)
A Public Failure (17:16)
A Prophetic Rebuke (17:17)
A Powerful Deliverance (17:18)

Conclusion: A Teachable Moment (17:19-21)

You can watch this message here.

The End of Titus: Scripture's Trustworthiness and Sufficiency | Titus 3:8-15

Sat, 25 May 2024 22:43:54 -0400

Jerry, Papa Fred, and Scott wrap up the book of Titus in a convicting and encouraging panel that points to the sufficiency of scripture, how straying from it destroys the church, and how we can follow God's word and encourage one another.

The Church as New Israel, New Temple, and New Creation in Christ | Acts 2-7

Tue, 21 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

You can watch this message here.

The Transfiguration | Matthew 17:1-13

Sun, 19 May 2024 22:37:12 -0400

The transfiguration is a mysterious scene that is worth meditating on more than we often do! Here are the sermon points.

Jesus's glorious transfiguration
Moses and Elijah's appearance
Peter's two responses

You can watch this message here.

The Heart of the Gospel | Titus 3:1-7

Wed, 15 May 2024 11:21:39 -0400

Jerry, Papa, and Jared dive into Titus 3 where Paul lays out the gospel with great simplicity and power.

The Church as the New Israel and New Temple in Christ | Acts 2-7

Tue, 14 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

If the OT promises concerning a new Israel and new temple are being fulfilled now in the church, there is no need to look for a for a future Millennial fulfillment of Israel amongst only ethnic Jewish believers (apart from Gentiles believers) or a future brick-and-mortar temple, since the new Israel and new temple is being fulfilled in the church in Christ.

You can watch this message here.

Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me | Matthew 16:21-28

Mon, 13 May 2024 11:23:30 -0400

Here are the five points of the message:

Jesus declares the necessity of His sacrifice (v 21)
Peter rebukes Jesus (v 22)
Jesus rebukes Peter (v 23)
The demand of discipleship (v 24)
Three incentives to pick up our cross and follow Jesus (v 25-27)

You can watch this message here.

Jews and Gentiles are Included in the Restored Israel by Faith in Christ | Acts 1-11 (Overview)

Fri, 10 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This message (from March, 2021) gives an overview of Acts 1-11 regarding the inclusion of the Gentiles as Gentiles in the renewed Israel (the Church) by faith in Christ alone. It touches on why the ceremonial cleanliness laws served a purpose for ethnic Israel in the Old Testament, but no longer bind Christians today, who are Abraham's true offspring in Christ.

You can watch this message here.

How Grace Makes us Zealous for Good Works | Titus 2:11-15

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:23:11 -0400

Jerry, Scott, Papa Fred, Jared discuss the powerful way that the grace of the gospel actually makes us zealous for good works.

Does Jesus Reign on David's Throne Today or in the Millennium? | Acts 15

Tue, 07 May 2024 13:00:21 -0400

Understanding when Jesus sits on David's throne (is it now, at the Father's right hand in heaven, or still awaiting the supposed earthly Millenial reign of Christ from Israel?) is a significant watershed for many regarding Dispensational and Covenantal theologies.

[To remove a potential confusion from the title of this message, it is possible to hold the Amillennial view, which our teaching team favors. This view says that Jesus reigns on David's throne in heaven today, which is itself the heavenly Millennial reign of Revelation 20.]

You can watch this message here.

Becoming a Godly Father | Men's Breakfast

Mon, 06 May 2024 18:00:00 -0400

Jerry, Papa Fred, John VanDeLinde, and Bob McAndrew do a great job encouraging fathers to raise their children in a godly and humble way at our most recent men's breakfast.

You can watch this message here.

I Will Build My Church: Peter's Confession & Christ's Promise | Matthew 16:13-20

Mon, 06 May 2024 08:59:59 -0400

The message has two points:

Peter's Confession: "You are the Christ!" (v 13-17)
Christ's Promise: "I will build My Church" (v 18-20)

You can watch this message here.

Instruction for Older/Younger Men and Women | Titus 2:1-10

Thu, 02 May 2024 12:44:44 -0400

Jerry, Scott, Papa Fred, and Jared walk through Titus 2 which addresses men and women both young and old instructing us all in how we are to live and treat each other.

How Gentiles are Included in the Restored Israel in Acts 10-15

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 11:26:58 -0400

Perhaps the most important section of Acts regarding the inclusion of the Gentiles in the restored Israel of God is Acts 10-15. In chapters 10-11, we have the first clear example of a Gentile conversion (Cornelius and his family) and then in chapter 15 we read about the Jerusalem Council. In this scene a final decision is made about Gentile inclusion in the renewed people of God.

You can watch this message here.

Willful Unbelief vs. Struggling, Genuine Faith | Matthew 16:1-12

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 10:16:46 -0400

In this message we examine two kinds of responses fo Jesus: The willful, hardened unbelief of the religious leaders and the genuine, struggling, growing belief of the disciples.

Beware of Willful, Hardened Unbelief (v 1-4)
Grow in Genuine Faith (v 5-12)

You can watch this message here.

The Restoration of Israel in the Church in Acts 1-11 (An Overview)

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this message, we step back to try to give an overview of this issue and move slowly through some important points regarding Isaiah's restoration of Israel being fulfilled through Christ in the church in Acts 1-11.

You can watch this message here.

False Teachers on the Island of Crete | Titus 1:10-16

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:43:33 -0400

Papa Fred, Scott, and Jared walk us through Titus chapter 1:10-16 and consider the importance of good doctrine.

Thirteen Lessons from the Feeding of the Four Thousand | Matthew 15:29-39

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 22:04:13 -0400

We learn the following thirteen lessons from watching Jesus care for the crowd of four thousand:

He goes into Gentile territory (Decapolis; Mark 7:31)
He welcomes and heals the needy (v 28-31a)
His actions lead to Gentiles glorifying God (v 31b)
He feels compassion (v 32)
He tests the disciples (v 33)
He shows them their inability (v 33-34)
He takes the initiative (v 35-36)
He takes the loaves and fish (v 36a)
He gives thanks for the little food (v 36b)
He involves the disciples (v 36c)
He satisfies the hunger of all 4,000 (v 37a, 38)
He provides seven baskets leftover (v 37b)
He dismisses the people (v 39)

Mark received a lot of help with this outline from Steve Lawson's very helpful message on the parallel account in Mark 8:1-9 with a similar structure here.

You can watch this message here.

Isaiah's Restoration of Israel in the Church in Acts | A Critique of the Dispensational View

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:44:57 -0400

This week we respond to the Dispensational view of Acts and argue for the alternative Progressive Covenantal persective.

You can watch this message here.

Paul's True Son Titus and the Qualifications for Elders | Titus 1:1-9

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 14:55:55 -0400

Jerry, Jared, and Scott walk us through the introduction of Paul's letter to Titus and of Paul's command to appoint Elders.

The Gutsy Faith of a Canaanite Woman | Matthew 15:21-28

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 10:57:45 -0400

You can watch this message here.

When is the Kingdom Restored to Israel in Acts? | A Critique of the Dispenational View of Acts 1:6-8

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Acts 1:6-8 is a key passage in the debate between all forms of Dispensationalism and Progressive Covenantalism and Covenant theology. What are the disciples really asking? And, more importantly, how does Jesus answer their question in verses 7-8?

You can watch this message here.

What Defiles Us Comes from Within | Matthew 15:10-20

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 08:42:31 -0400

Sermon summary: Blind spiritual guides don't believe their highest authority comes from above or that their deepest defilement comes from within. (And by nature, none of us do.)

Jesus gives several warnings about these blind spiritual guides.

They are blind regarding:

Themselves (v 12-14)
Authority (v 1-8)
Worship (v 7-11)
Indwelling sin (15-20)

Mark borrowed numerous ideas for points three and four from Kevin DeYoung here, here, and here.

You can watch this message here.

Progressive Covenantalism: Understanding Israel and the Church (An Overview)

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 19:29:03 -0400

This is an overview of what Scripure teaches about the relationship of Israel and the Church. It was preached in September of 2020 near the beginning of our Acts series, but since it is relavant to our current Progressive Covenantalism series, we are reposting it now.

You can watch this message here.

What We Believe About: Evangelism, Discipleship, Elders, God's Sovereignty, & Gender Roles | Prospective Members' Meeting: Part 2

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This is the second of two sessions from our most recent prospective members' meeting (3/23/24).

You can watch this message here.

Nine Marks of a Healthy Church | Prospective Members' Meeting: Part 1

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This is the first of two sessions from our most recent prospective members' meeting (3/23/24).

You can watch this message here.

Resurrection Sunday and Our Living Hope | 1 Peter 1:1-9 [Easter]

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 20:49:35 -0400

Our Living Hope:

Where did it come from?
Where is it bringing us?
How does it affect our lives right now?

You can watch this message here.

The Final Hours of Jesus' Life: The Cup and the Cross | Mark 14:32-42; 15:15-39 [Good Friday]

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 13:01:55 -0400

Scott had four points to this message:

Sorrow
Humiliation
Alienation
Salvation

You can watch this message here.

Scripture vs Man-Made, Legalistic Tradition: A Question of Authority | Matthew 14:34-15:9

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

The message had the following two points:

Man-Made, Legalistic Tradition
God-Breathed, Infallible Scripture

You can watch this message here.

The Riches of the Gospel in a Greeting | Titus 1:1-2

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 09:10:07 -0400

Jerry, Fred, Scott, and Jared discuss the beginning of Paul's letter to Titus. There is a whole lot packed into the opening greeting and it is worth time lingering over just the opening two verses to see what is in each phrase!

John MacArthur on the Land/Kingdom Promised to Israel: A Progressive Covenantal Critique of Dispensational Premillennialism

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0400

This message critiques some of the charges John MacArthur has leveled against non-dispensationalists regarding biblical interpretation, the Old Testament, Israel, the church, and the millennium.

You can watch this message here.

John MacArthur's Dispensationalism: A Progressive Covenantal Response

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 08:01:59 -0400

John MacArthur is one of the most influential pastors alive today. We have been blessed by his 55 years of faithful ministry at our church. However, on the issue of Israel and the church we have some important disagreements. Here we walk through part of a message he gave at the 2007 Shepherd's Conference and respond to his critiuques of the non-dispensational position we hold.

You can watch this message here.

Boaz Redeems Ruth | Ruth 4

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 16:20:23 -0400

Today's podcast covers chapter 4 of the book of Ruth. Featuring Jerry, Fred, Scott, and Jared.

The Death of John the Baptist | Matthew 14:1-12

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 21:47:24 -0400

Mark got the idea of outlining the message around the four main characters of the story from Eric Alexander's helpful message here.

Herod’s weakness vs John’s strength
Herodias’s grudge
Salome's dance
John’s death

Discussion Questions:

Herod's moral weakness is seen in his people-pleasing and fleshly decision making. He is easily swayed by others into doing what is wrong and does not stand by biblical convictions. Where do we see Herod's moral weakness in this story? What can we learn from his negative example?
How does John the Baptist's humble strength and courage show itself in this story? How can we be more like John and less like Herod?
Herodias is also controlled by sinful desires, is unfaithful to her first husband, and nurses a grudge against John that turns deadly. What can we learn from her negative example? How can we specifically fight the temptation to nurse grudges in our heart?
To some readers, John's death may seem utterly ridiculous and even meaningless as the story unfolds. How can we be encouraged by the absurd circumstances surrounding his death? Was it truly meaningless? (Have someone read 2 Corinthians 4:16-18). How can we fight to believe God's good purposes for us in our own suffering, especially when it becomes discouraging to us?

You can watch this message here.

What About the Land Promise to Israel? | A Progressive Covenantalist Response to Dispensationalism

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Perhaps some listeners may be on board with what we've covered over the past several sessions on this topic and agree that the church is the true, restored Israel of God in Christ. However, you may have a big lingering question: What about the land promise to Israel in the Old Testament?

You can watch this message here.

A Matter of Discipline | Proverbs 23 [Black Mountain Men's Retreat: Session 3]

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 18:00:00 -0400

This is Bob McAndrew's third and final message from Satruday evening at the Black Mountain Men's Retreat. Here are the three points:

Don't let gluttony get the best of you
Don't let greed get the best of you
Do let godly instruction get the best of you

You can watch this message here.

When Jesus Doesn't Meet Our Expectations | Matthew 14:22-33

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 09:00:20 -0400

Three main points emphasis run through this passage:

Jesus will continue God's kingdom plan in God's way and on God's timetable
Jesus will reveal Himself in an unforgettable way to His disciples
Jesus will reveal to.His disciples thay they still had a LOT of room to grow

Outline of the passage:

Jesus's Insistence (vs. 22-24)
Jesus's Appearance (vs. 25-27)
Jesus's Salvation (vs. 28-32)
The Disciples' Worship (vs. 33)

You can watch this message here.

Before a Man Commits Adultery He Should... | Proverbs 5 [Black Mountain Men's Retreat: Session 2]

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 18:00:00 -0400

This is Bob McAndrew's second message from Saturday morning at the Black Mountain Men's Retreat.

Before a man commits adultery he should...

Understand what it is going to cost him
Understand what he already has at home
Understand that the Lord is watching him

You can watch the message here.

The Fear of the Lord: An Introduction to Proverbs | Proverbs 1:1-7 [Black Mountain Men's Retreat: Session 1]

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 09:49:10 -0400

This is Bob McAndrew's first talk on Friday night at the Black Mountain Men's Retreat in North Carolina. In this message he introduces the book of Proverbs and asks three questions:

What is a proverb?
What is the purpose of Proverbs?
What is the motto of Proverbs?

You can watch this message here.

Ruth Goes to Boaz at the Threshing Floor | Ruth 3

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 09:47:54 -0500

Jerry, Scott, Papa, and Jared lead us through this important turning point in the story of Ruth.

Discipleship: Equipping the Saints for the Work of Ministry | Ephesians 4:11-13

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 20:06:52 -0500

Jerry did a great job reminding us of the importance of discipleship in the Christian life. No matter who we are, no matter our gifting, we are called to disciple others and to be discipled. This is basic to the Christian life and something we all should consider how we can do this more wisely and passionately.

You can watch this message here.

Ruth and Boaz Meet | Ruth 2

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Jerry, Papa Fred, and Jared team up to walk us through Ruth 2 where Ruth and Boaz meet for the first time.

The Feeding of the Five Thousand | Matthew 14:13-21

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 20:50:56 -0500

Here are the points for Scott's message:

The compassion of Jesus
The test that Jesus gives
The sufficiency of Jesus
The identity of Jesus

You can watch this message here.

The Church as the Restored, True Israel of God in Christ

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

The Old Testament teaches that Gentiles will be included in the restored Israel (see, as one example, Psalm 87). However, the New Testament reveals a "mystery" previously hidden that the restored, true Israel of God has been restructured around identification with the Messiah by faith alone, not ethnic background or observance to the Mosaic law. This is why, we argue, Paul refers to the church as "the Israel of God" (Galatians 6:16) and other NT authors apply titles previously reserved for Israel to the church.

You can watch this message here.

The Kingdom of Heaven is Like Hidden Treasure | Matthew 13:31-33, 44-46, 53-58

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Here is the sermon outline:

The Kingdom of Heaven has Small Beginnings (v 31-33)
The Kingdom of Heaven has Infinite Worth (v 44-46)
The Kingdom of Heaven has often been too Easily Rejected (v 53-58)

You can watch this message here.

Ruth 1 | Suffering and God's Sovereignty

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 18:48:52 -0500

Jerry, Scott, Papa Fred, and Jared Smith all teamed up to help lead us through the first week in Ruth.

How Will Gentiles Be Included in the Restored, True Israel?

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

The Old Testament makes clear that Gentiles will be blessed in the time of the restoration of Israel from exile. However, to what degree and in what way the Gentiles will be included isn't as clearly revealed in the Old Testament as it is in the New. What does Scripture teach is the relationship between Israel and the church and the inclusion of the Gentiles in the new covenant era?

You can watch this message here.

Final Judgment in the Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds | Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, 47-50

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 08:43:38 -0500

Here is Scott's outline regarding final judgment:

Judgment is necessary
Judgment is delayed
Judgment is certain
Judgment will be thorough and permanent

You can watch this message here.

Should Christians Attend LGBTQ 'Weddings'? | An Earnest Response to Alistair Begg

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We decided to take a Sunday to discuss this recent contraversy with a pastor we have often quoted at our church, Alistair Begg. Is it ever right for a Christian to attend an LGBTQ 'wedding'? If not, why not? This is an issue of our day for which Christians must have biblical clarity.

You can watch this message here.

The Double-Edged Purpose of Parables | Matthew 13:10-17, 34-35, 51-52

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Mark borrowed these two points and a lot of the structure of this sermon from Don Carson's very helpful sermon here.

Jesus tells parables because in line with Scripture (Isaiah 6), His message blinds, deafens, and hardens (v 10-17)
Jesus tells parables because in line with Scripture (Psalm 78), His message reveals things previously hidden in Scripture (v 34-35, 11-12, 16-17, 51-52)

You can watch this message here.

Biblical Counseling | Week 5

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 21:58:12 -0500

Jerry and Josh Crouse wrap up this important five week series on Biblical Counseling by spending some time in Proverbs among other passages.

How the New Covenant is Better than the Old

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

The Old Testament itself clearly teaches that the New Covenant is in some importnat ways similar to and yet dissimilar and far better in many ways.

You can watch this message here.

The Parable of the Four Soils | Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 07:58:29 -0500

Here is the outline:

The Pathtway soil (v 1-4, 18-19)
The Rocky soil (v 5-6, 20-21)
The Thorny soil (v 7, 22)
The Good soil (v 8-9, 23)

You can watch this message here.

Biblical Counseling | Week 4

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 18:22:35 -0500

Jerry and Josh Crouse continue their defense of biblical counseling in light of other alternatives even within the Evangelical world.

The New Covenant in the Old Testament

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

The New Covenant doesn't show up for the first time in the New Testament. It is developed and predicted by the Old Testament prophets long before the birth of Jesus! What do these prophets, writing before, during, and not long after the exile, tell us about this future, final, new covenant?

You can watch this message here.

Return of a Demonic Spirit: The Evil of an Empty Religious Life | Matthew 12:38-50

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 09:30:50 -0500

In this passage, Jesus instructs us to see…

Empty, Orderly Religion as an Invitation to the Demonic (v 43-45)
Wholehearted, Obedient Disciples as Christ’s True Family (v 46-50)
Himself as the Greater Jonah and Solomon We All Need (v 38-42)

You can watch this message here.

Biblical Counseling | Week 3

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 22:10:21 -0500

Jerry and Josh Crouse carefully compare and contrast biblical counseling with Christian counseling and reveal some significant differences.

The Davidic Covenant: A 50 Minute Overview

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

The estbliashment of the Davidic Covenant in 2 Samuel 7 is one of the most significant events in Scripture. What exactly is it and how does it prepare the way for Jesus?

You can watch this message here.

By Your Words You Will Be Justified or Condemned | Matthew 12:33-37

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0500

Here is the sermon outline:

Is justification by faith or by words? (v 36-37)
What do our words reveal about our hearts? (v 33-35)
How can we change? (v 33-35)

You can watch this message here.

Biblical Counseling | Week 2

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 22:16:39 -0500

Jerry and Josh Crouse continue to discuss the benefits of biblical counseling in contrast to some other forms of Christian counseling that seek to combine secular psychology with Scripture.

WCA Chapel: Shine in Culture | Philippians 2:12-18

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 12:23:51 -0500

Mark spoke in the upper school chapel today at Westminster Christian Academy on how we can "shine" in culture before unbelievers.

Shine by working out your salvation (v 12-13)
1. How? By relying on God’s active work in you.
Shine by not grumbling or disputing (v 14-15)
1. Numbers 14:27, “How long shall this wicked congregation grumble against me? I have heard the grumblings of the people of Israel, which they grumble against me.”
Shine by being content and joyful (v 17-18)
1. He’s currently in jail in Rome (1:12-23)
2. He is willing to be poured out and even die for others with joy (v 17-18)
3. Paul’s joy in suffering helped lead the jailer (and his family) to Christ (Acts 16)
Shine by holding fast to the Word of Life (v 15b-16)
1. Do not buy the lie that in college the way to evangelize others is to dim your light as much as possible or to act as much like the world as you possibly can! No, be joyfully different and unashamed of God’s word!

The Mosaic Covenant in Deuteronomy

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

This is our second and final week covering Deuteronomy. It is an important book to more fully grasp the details of the Mosaic Covenant that God made with Israel at Sinai and reconfirmed at the end of Moses' life just before the people follow Joshua into the land.

You can watch this message here.

The The Unforgivable Sin: Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit | Matthew 12:22-32

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0500

"What is the unforgivable sin? How do I know if I've committed it?" These are questions that need to be answered clearly and biblically. To be taught wrongly about this sin can lead to years of unecessary dread and fear.

Jesus is accused of being in league with Satan (v 22-24)
Jesus counters the accusation with several arguments (v 25-29)
Jesus warns His enemies of the unforgivable sin (v 30-32)

You can watch this message here.

Biblical Counseling | Week 1

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 21:01:18 -0500

Jerry Ediger and Josh Crouse help us think through counseling that relies on the sufficiency of Scripture and they warn us against counseling that tends to mix secular counseling with Scripture. This is an important topic as various forms of counseling have become so popular in recent years.

An Overview of Deuteronomy

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We covered part one of a basic overview of the book of Dueteronomy in this Sunday school. In order to understand the Mosaic Covenant more fully it is important to grasp this important book that shapes how the later OT prophets speak and is quoted so often by Jesus and Paul in the NT.

You can watch this message here.

He Will Not Break a Bruised Reed | Matthew 12:15-21

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 21:56:42 -0500

In this passage Matthew shows us how Jesus fulfills Isaiah 42:1-4 in three ways:

He is chosen by God and Spirit filled (v 18)
He is humble and gracious (v 19-20)
He brings us hope and justice (v 18b, 21)

You can watch this message here.

Jehovah’s Witnesses just stopped by (12 mins)

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 12:41:49 -0500

Two Jehavoh's Witnesses just visited my (Mark's) house. This is the third visit in the last couple months. These are some brief reflections on the conversation.

You can watch this brief message here.

The Word Became Flesh | John 1:14-18

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 13:10:41 -0500

Here is Scott's outline:

The wonder of the incarnation
The reality of the incarnation
The reason for the incarnation
Our response to the incarnation

You can watch the message here.

14 Problems with Official Catholic Church Doctrine

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 08:33:47 -0500

Why was the Reformation necessary? Is the Catholic Church truly Christian and does it officially teach the true gospel? What are the major differences between Catholics and Evangelical Protestants?

You can watch this message here.

The Biggest Errors of Jehovah’s Witness Teaching

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 09:05:06 -0500

Many of us have had Jehovah's Witnesses knock on our door or offer free literature on a streetcorner. What do they really teach? How far from biblical Christianity is there teaching?

You can watch this message here.

In the Beginning was the Word | John 1:1-13

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 09:00:36 -0500

The Word (v 1-5)
The World (v 9-13)
The Witness (v 6-8)

You can watch this message here.

Leviticus in 50 Minutes: An Overview of a Challenging Book

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 15:00:00 -0500

In order to understand the Mosaic Covenant it is helpful to grasp not just Exodus, but also the book of Leviticus. There are also many New Testament passages, both in the gospels and especially Hebrews, that become clearer in their meaning after carefully studying Leviticus.

You can watch this message here.

The Sabbath Controversy Continues: When Tradition Replaces Faithfulness to God’s Word | Matthew 12:9-14 Sermon

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500

I. A Public Location (vs. 9) A. The same people are involved B. The religious setting is not coincidental II. A Loaded Question (vs. 10) A. The situation: a man with a withered hand B. The question: is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath C. The intent behind the question: to accuse Jesus III. A Pointed Response A. Jesus references a real controversy (vs. 11) B. Jesus references clear Scriptural teaching (vs. 12) C. Jesus restores the man's hand (vs. 13) IV. A Wicked Plan (vs. 14)

You can watch this message here.

The End of Esther | Esther 9-10

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 08:41:48 -0500

Jerry, Papa Fred, and Jared covered the last two chapters of Esther as we see the Jews bring destruction upon their enemies, the feast of Purim inaugurated, and Mordecai honored.

Women’s Breakfast: Leah Petty’s Testimony & Haley Crane on Anxiety

Sat, 09 Dec 2023 14:06:12 -0500

Leah shared her testimony about how the Lord worked in her life over the course of several years to bring her to genuine faith in Christ and repentance. Haley shares about how to fight the sin of anxiety in a world that often belittles and excuses such sins.

The Mosaic Covenant and God’s Calling on Israel | Exodus 12-40

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500

This week we cover much of Exodus quickly to see what Scriptures teaches us about the Mosaic Covenant.

You can watch this message here.

Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath | Matthew 12:1-8

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 14:00:00 -0500

Introduction: The Sabbath controversy (v 1-2)

Jesus responds by appealing to…

David (v 3-4)
The Priests in the Temple (v 5-6)
Hosea (v 7-8)

You can watch this message here.

Esther is Used to Save the Jews | Esther 8

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 08:25:02 -0500

Jerry, Scott, Papa, and Jared discuss this pivotal chapter in the story of Esther.

Understanding the Mosaic Covenant

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Mark and Greg discuss one of the more difficult covenants to grasp, especially in how it relates to the New Covenant. Many differences among Christians spring from disagreements regarding how we understand the Mosaic Covenant today.

You can watch this message here.

Equal with the Father and Gentle and Lowly | Matthew 11:25-30

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 08:30:38 -0500

INTRODUCTION:

Context: “At that time” (v 25a)

John the Baptist doubting (v 1-15)
Crowds rejecting both John & Jesus (v 16-19)
Entire cities of Galilee rejecting Jesus (v 20-24)

Jesus could be tempted toward discouragement, but instead He praises and thanks God.

One pastor writes, “And in this moment when the Lord Jesus could have been profoundly discouraged. Here is the first great effort to spread the gospel to the surrounding countryside and many, many, many people had rejected that message, had rejected His miracles. He could have been very downcast. I want you to see that in that context, the Lord Jesus lifts up a prayer of thanksgiving to His heavenly Father…and in that prayer He contemplates God’s sovereignty. He contemplates God’s wisdom. And He contemplates the fact that God has caused some to respond to the gospel.”
When you are facing circumstances that tempt you toward discouragement or sinful anger…
1. 1 Thessalonians 5:18. Deliberately choose to thank and praise God for His goodness, even in unpleasant circumstances.

I. Jesus thanks the Father for concealing and revealing (v 25-26)

Jesus teaches in this brief section:
1. Human accountability: Jesus denounces the cities for rejecting Him (v 20-24).
2. Divine sovereignty: Jesus says that God hid these truths from some (v 25) and that only those He chooses will know God (v 27b).
3. Universal offer: Then Jesus invites all to come to Him (v 28).
APPLICATION: SO BE HUMBLE
1. H.B. Charles, “Jesus thanks God for the mystery of salvation where those who you think will get it, don’t; and those who are least likely to get it, do.”
2. Isaiah 57:15; Isaiah 66:1-2; 1 Peter 5:5.

II. Jesus claims to be equal with and the only revealer of the Father (v 27)

It’s hard to find a higher view of Christ than the one Jesus gives us here.

The Father has given all things to Jesus.
Only Jesus knows the Father truly and comprehensively.
Jesus is sovereign over knowing the Father.
Jesus is the only one in the universe who can reveal the Father to us.
1. See John 14:6; John 3:35; John 5:21; John 17:1-2

III. Jesus invites us to find rest in Himself (v 28-30)

"It is the only place in Scripture where the 'heart' of Christ is actually named." (J.C. Ryle)
Compare Matthew 23:4 with 1 John 5:3-4 & Genesis 29:20.
1. Spurgeon, “Eastern monarchs affected great seclusion, and were wont to surround themselves with impassable barriers of state. It was very difficult for even their most loyal subjects to approach them. You remember the case of Esther, who, though the monarch was her husband, yet went with her life in her hand when she ventured to present herself before the king Ahasuerus, for there was a commandment that none should come unto the king except they were called, at peril of their lives. It is not so with the King of kings. His court is far more splendid; his person is far more worshipful; but you may draw near to him at all times without hindrance. He has set no men-at-arms around his palace gate. The door of his house of mercy is set wide open. . . . Though he is greater than the greatest, and higher than the highest, he has been pleased to put out of the way everything which might keep the sinner from entering into his halls of gracious entertainment. From his lips we hear no threatenings against intrusion, but hundreds of invitations to the nearest and dearest intimacy. Jesus is to be approached, not now and then, but at all times, and not by some favoured few, but by all in whose hearts his Holy Spirit has enkindled the desire to enter into his secret presence.”

You can watch this message here.

Esther Reveals Haman’s Evil Plan to the King

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 13:18:03 -0500

Jerry, Papa Fred, and Jared discuss God's providence has Esther reveals Haman's wicked plot to the king and Haman is hung on his own gallows.

Jesus Rebukes and Condemns | Matthew 11:16-24

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 22:33:15 -0500

I. His Rebuke of Unappeasable Critics (vs. 16-19)

The illustration Jesus used (16-17)
The reality Jesus addressed (18-19)
The point Jesus made (19)

II. His Condemnation of Unrepentant Cities (vs. 20-24)

They were condemned for rejecting Him (20)
Their condemnation was justly severe (22, 24)

You can watch this message here.

Feminism vs. Biblical Motherhood | Q&A with Erin & Kelly

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Erin and Kelly spent about half an hour answering questions from high school seniors about their comments on biblical motherhood.

Feminism vs. Biblical Motherhood | Erin Webster & Kelly McAndrew

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:41:22 -0500

Kelly and Erin spoke to Mark's high school senior Bible class this week about biblical womanhood, marriage, and motherhood and how it contrasts with popular feminist ideas.

Fighting Doubt Like John the Baptist | Matthew 11:1-15

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

I. JOHN DOUBTS JESUS (v 1-3)

It came during a year long trial (in prison, v 2)
It came from false expectations about Jesus (v 2-3)
It came from a limited view of what Jesus was doing (v 2)
But John still knew to take his doubts to Jesus (v 2)

II. JESUS REASSURES JOHN (v 4-6)

Jesus pointed John to His actions and to Scripture (v 4-5)
1. Isaiah 35:4-5; Isaiah 61:1-2
Jesus pronounces those blessed who trustingly submit to Him (v 6)

III. JESUS REASSURES THE CROWD ABOUT JOHN (v 7-15)

Jesus says we can trust John because…

John wasn’t blown around by popular opinion (v 7)
John wasn’t soft, posh, or given to impressing kings or other elites (v 8)
John was a prophet (v 9)
John was more than a prophet because the OT foretold his ministry (v 9-10, 13-15)
1. Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1 (v 10); Malachi 4:5 (v 13-15)
John was the greatest man ever born before Jesus (v 11)
John’s imprisonment is part and parcel of the coming of the kingdom as the kingdom is opposed by violent people (v 12)
Yet the least in the kingdom is greater than John! (v 11)

You can watch this message here.

The Abrahamic Covenant: Part 2 | Genesis 17-23

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 09:47:05 -0500

This week Mark and Greg argue that God makes only one covenant with Abraham not two. In other words, Genesis 15 and 17 describe one overall covenant about land and offspring. They also argue that the covenant with Abraham is both unconditional and conditional, and it is not until the New Testament that this tension is finally and clearly resolved.

You can watch the message here.

Mordecai is Honored by the King | Esther 6

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 21:37:24 -0500

Jerry, Papa Fred, and Jared lead us through chapter six of Esther.

The Covenant with Abraham | Genesis 11-16

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

The Abrahamic covenant is essential to rightly understanding all that comes after it in Scripture. It is important that we understand it in its context in Genesis and in its wider canonical context. This is, Lord willing, the first of two weeks on God's covenant with Abraham.

You can watch the message here.

Five Reasons to Reject Fear | Matthew 10:26-42

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 06:58:05 -0500

Have no fear because…

The truth will ultimately be revealed to all (v 26-27)
Your soul can’t be harmed by man (v 28)
Your Father is in control (v 29-31)
Jesus will acknowledge you before His Father (v 32-33, 38-39)
You represent the King (v 40-42, 25)

Verses 34-37 were covered in the previous message.

You can watch the message here.

Esther Prepares a Banquet and Haman Plans to Hang Mordecai | Esther 5

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 18:25:18 -0500

Jerry, Scott, Papa Fred, and Jared walk through Esther 5. (Title borrowed from ESV headings.)

God’s Covenant with Noah: The Flood, the Ark, & the Rainbow | Genesis 4-9

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

The Covenant with Noah can too easily get neglected as we learn to put our Bibles together, yet this covenant should not be overlooked or minimized! To paraphrase Tom Schreiner, in this covenant God assures us that the world will remain until the promise of Genesis 3:15 will be fulfilled.

You can watch the message here.

I Am Sending You Out as Sheep in the Midst of Wolves | Matthew 10:16-25, 34-37

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 13:14:20 -0400

Introduction: Sheep, Wolves, Serpents, & Doves (v 16)

Religious & political opposition and a promise (v 17-20)
Familial opposition and a promise (v 21-23, 34-37)
Christ-likeness in and through opposition (v 24-25)

You can watch the message here.

For Such a Time As This: Esther Agrees to Help the Jews | Esther 4

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 22:04:51 -0400

Jerry, Papa Fred, and Jared discuss how a trust in God's providence can lead to action on behalf of others.

Baptism of the Holy Spirit | A Critique of ’Second Blessing’ Theology

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 08:57:24 -0400

In Pentecostal theology it is not uncommon to hear that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is available after conversion as a "second blessing" in the Christian life. The implication is that the baptism of the Spirit is separated by time from conversion and that not all Christians today experience it. Is this what Scripture teaches? What do we do with Acts 8?

You can watch this message here.

Do People Really Still Speak in Tongues Today? | A Biblical Case for Cessationism

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

This is an emotionally charged issue that must be decided by carefully exegesis, not our experience. What does Scripture teach the gift of tongues is in reality? Why do we believe tongues and prophecy have ceased in early church history?

You can watch this message here.

Adam is a Type of Christ: The Covenant of Creation | Genesis 1-3; Romans 5

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0400

The parallels between Adam and Christ are stunning and the New Testament draws them out clearly. They also seem to indicate a covenant of creation with Adam.

You can watch this message here.

The Harvest is Plentiful, the Laborers are Few | Matthew 9:35-10:15

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 13:05:43 -0400

I. An urgent need revealed (9:35-38)

A pattern of ministry established (v 35)
A compassion for people displayed (v 36)
A harvest of souls to recognize (v 37)
A prayer for laborers to be sent (v 38)

II. A motley crew assembled (10:1-4)

An unnatural power is bestowed (v 1)
An unlikely group is gathered (v 2-4)

III. An initial mission commenced (10:5-15)

It focused on the Jews (v 5-6)
It focused on preaching (v 7)
It focused on miracles (v 8)
It was short-term (v 8b-10)
It had eternal consequences for its hearers (v 11-15)

You can watch this message here.

Haman Makes a Plot Against the Jews | Esther 3

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 21:38:43 -0400

Jerry, Papa Fred, and Jared discuss the evil plans Haman makes against the Jewish people in this chapter.

Does Prophecy Still Happen Today? | A Critical Response to Wayne Grudem

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 11:29:51 -0400

An important question Christians often ask is, "Does the gift of prophecy still happen today?" We think this is an important issue that should be thought through carefully. In this video we argue that the gift of prophecy (and tongues as well, although that is for another video!) ceased in the early church.

You can watch this message here.

The Covenant of Creation with Adam: Does the NT Have Priority Over the Old?

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Three issues are covered this week in our new series:

Does the New Testament have priority over the Old?
What exactly is Progressive Covenantalism?
Was there really a Covenant of Creation with Adam?

You can watch the message here.

Son of David, Have Mercy on Us | Matthew 9:27-34

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 17:33:49 -0400

The message has two points.

I. The Faith of Two Blind Men (v 27-31)

They believe Jesus is Messiah (Son of David)
They believe Jesus is merciful
They believe Jesus is powerful

II. The Transformation of a Mute, Demon-Oppressed Man (v 32-34)

[Mark got help from Daniel Doriani's commentary on the outline.]

You can watch this message here.

Esther is Chosen as Queen | Esther 2

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 21:37:52 -0400

Jerry, Papa Fred, and Jared cover the second chapter of the book of Esther where Esther is chosen to be queen.

Introducing Progressive Covenantalism | How Do We Put Our Bibles Together?

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

How do we read the Bible as one unified story centered on Jesus? What is the relationship of Israel and the church? How should the Old Testament Mosaic law be understood today? These are the kinds of questions we plan to address in this series.

[Image from here.]

You can watch this message here.

Desperate Faith: Jairus and the Woman with the Issue of Blood | Matthew 9:18-26

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 09:17:25 -0400

Here are the points for the message:

A desperate father’s faith (v 18-19)
A suffering woman’s faith (v 20-21)
Two astonishing healings (v 22-26)

You can watch this message here.

Introducing Esther | Esther 1

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 20:10:48 -0400

We are excited as Jerry, Scott, and Papa Fred introduced Esther and covered the first chapter today in Sunday school!

Image from here.

From False Convert to New Creation in Christ | José Rodriguez

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 10:58:52 -0400

José Rodriguez was wonderfully converted about seven years ago at North Avenue. Please listen and be encouraged by this wonderful and engaging story!

You can watch José's testimony here.

Last Week on Providence: Should Tragedies be Biblically Viewed as Part of God’s Good Plan?

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

After six months, we come to our last and 26th week on God's providence. We examine the differences in how those who believe in God's detailed control of all events (Calvinists) respond to tragedies in comparison with those who do not (Arminians). The differences are quite significant.

You can watch this message here.

The Groom, the Garment, and the Wineskins | Matthew 9:14-17

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 10:18:34 -0400

Here are the points for the message:

Introduction: On Fasting

The Groom
The Garment
The Wineskins

You can watch this message here.

Jesus Calls Matthew the Tax Collector | Matthew 9:9-13

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

This passage looks at Matthew's own record of his conversion.

Jesus calls Matthew (v 9)
Matthew follows Jesus (v 9)
Matthew invited his friends to meet Jesus (v 10-13)

You can watch this message here.

Warnings and Assurance in Hebrews and 1 John | Perseverance of the Saints

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 09:24:00 -0400

We finished the "P" in TULIP this week by observing some of the warnings and assurances the Lord gives us for our good in both Hebrews and 1 John.

You can watch this message here.

Marks of a Healthy Church: Biblical Conversion, Discipleship, & Some Distinctives | What We Believe: Part 2

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 11:37:47 -0400

This is part two of our prospective membership meeting on Saturday (9/23/23).

You can watch this message here.

Church Membership and Church Discipline | What We Believe: Part 1

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 11:32:59 -0400

This is part one of our prospective membership meeting on Saturday (9/23/23).

You can watch this message here.

Does Hebrews 6:4-6 Teach You Can Lose Your Salvation?

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Perhaps the most contested text in Hebrews comes here in chapter six. Does the author teach you can lose your salvation? We think the answer is a strong negative, but what then does this text really mean?

You can watch this message here.

The Authority of Jesus to Heal and Forgive | Matthew 9:1-8

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 08:21:55 -0400

The authority of Jesus to heal and forgive teaches us that…

Jesus is divine (v 2-3)
To think low thoughts of Jesus is evil (v 3-4)
Sin is worse than suffering and sickness (v 2, 5-7)
Faith, not merit, brings mercy (v 2)
We should bring others in need to Jesus (v 2)

You can watch this message here.

Why Does Ezra End with Mass Divorce?

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Surely the end of Ezra is the most difficult part of this often neglected OT book. What are we to make of Ezra leading over 100 Israelite men to divorce their pagan wives and send them away along with their children?

You can watch this message here.

Ezra Leads the People in Repentance | Ezra 10

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 13:35:52 -0400

Here are the points for the message which concludes our study in the book of Ezra:

Ezra grieves the sin of the people (v 1, 6)
The people resolve to repent (v 2-6)
The people follow through with action (v 7-44)

You can watch this message here.

Does Scripture Teach Perseverance of the Saints?

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 13:09:33 -0400

Surely the doctrine of perseverance of the saints, or eternal security, is one of the most reassuring doctrines to spend time focusing on!

You can watch the message here.

God’s Irresistible Grace = God’s Irresistible Call

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In this message the teaching team discusses how God's sovereign call is saving and effective and that regeneration precedes and enables faith.

You can watch the message here.

Ezra’s Powerful Prayer of Repentance | Ezra 9

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 09:17:05 -0400

Here are the points for the message:

Ezra discovers sin among the people (v 1-4)
Ezra confesses Israel’s past sin (v 5-7)
Ezra confesses God’s faithfulness (v 8-9)
Ezra confesses Israel’s current sin (v 10-15)

You can watch this message here.

Does Scripture Really Teach Irresistible Grace?

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Irresistible grace is a sweet and wonderful doctrine that is meant to humble us and to cause us to worship.

You can watch the message here.

Ezra’s Wisdom and God’s Provision | Ezra 8

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 06:37:50 -0400

Sermon Summary: God provides for all His people’s needs through the wise, humble, and careful planning of Ezra. So let us learn to work hard and wisely as we entrust ourselves to God.

Ezra reviews the returning people (and finds no Levites) [v 1-20]
Ezra fasts and prays to God (and finds protection) [v 21-23]
Ezra entrusts the offerings to the priests (and finds them faithful) [v 24-36]

You can watch the message here.

Limited Atonement: But What About 2 Peter 2:1?

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Since 2 Peter 2:1 is probably the single strongest verse used against the position of particular redemption we thought it might be useful to spend some extended time looking at what this text is really saying in its context. We must remember that virtually all true theological positions have biblical texts that at least superficially appear to contradict them on first glance, but confirm them upon further study. We believe this is true regarding 2 Peter 2!

You can watch this message here.

Limited Atonement: How a Controversial Doctrine Can Be Practical & Comforting

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Is it really possible that a doctrine as controversial as particular redemption can actually be edifying, biblical, and comforting to the believer? Yes! Listen in and see what you think!

You can watch the message here.

Ezra and His Love for God’s Word | Ezra 7

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:45:47 -0400

This is the outline for the message regarding Ezra's credentials, for which Mark adapted points 1-3 from an Ezra-Nehemiah commentary:

Ezra's lineage (v 1-5)
Ezra's resolve (v 6-10)
Ezra's favor with King Artaxerxes (v 11-26)
Ezra's favor with the Lord (v 6, 9, 27-28)

You can watch the message here.

How Does Limited Atonement Explain the ’World’ Passages?

Sat, 19 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

We continue in this message where we left off in the last one. How do we who hold to limited atonement respond to the 'world' passages regarding the atonement?

You can watch the message here.

How Does Limited Atonement Explain the ’All’ Passages?

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 08:05:28 -0400

In this message we address many of the most common "all" passages that are often used to object to particular redemption.

You can watch this message here.

A Deep Dive on Predestination and Limited Atonement

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In this message, we cover a number of the most important texts, particularly from Jesus, John, and Paul, on the issue of unconditional election and limited atonement (or, more accurately, particular redemption).

You can watch this message here.

Limited Atonement = Effective Atonement: But What About the ’All’ & ’World’ Passages?

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

If the atonement is a real and effective atonement then it must be a limited atonement. Yet all views limit the atonement in one way or another. If this is true, what about the texts that seem to imply that Jesus died for "all" and the "whole world"?

You can watch this message here.

The Second Temple Completed: By God’s Word & Spirit! | Ezra 6:13-22 (Zechariah 4)

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 12:06:54 -0400

Here is the sermon outline (which Mark said he adapted from the ESV headings!):

Temple completed (v 13-15)
Temple dedicated (v 16-18)
Passover celebrated (v 19-22)

You can watch the message here.

Obedience, Opposition, & God’s Overruling Sovereignty | Ezra 5:1-6:12

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Here is the outline of the message:

Obedience often leads to opposition (without and within) [5:1-10]
In government opposition: honor God, speak truthfully, and appeal to just laws [5:11-17]
Watch God turn your enemies into servants of your good [6:1-12]

You can watch the message here.

Does Scripture Really Teach Limited Atonement?

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 08:13:10 -0400

Is limited atonement really taught in the Bible? Although we prefer the language of "particular redemption" or "definite atonement" over "limited atonement," we must first to recognize that all Christians "limit" the atonement. We either limit it in its extent or it efficacy. The question really is: Does Scripture teach the atonement is unlimited in its extent and limited in its efficacy (as Arminians argue) or is the atonement limited in its extent and unlimited in its efficacy (as our teaching team argues)?

You can watch the message here.

Does Scripture Teach Libertarian Free Will or Calvinistic Compatibilism? | Acts 13

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

This is an age-old discussion, and yet it has real ramifications for how we live and how we understand our own conversion. Who's choice is ultimately decisive in your conversion to Christ?

You can watch this message here.

Common Objections to Unconditional Election: What About Foreknowledge & God’s Desire to Save All?

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In this message the teaching team responds to some of the most common objections to the doctrine of unconditional election. First, isn't election based on foreknowledge (Rom 8:29; 1 Pet 1:1-2)? If so, doesn't that mean God merely chooses those He foreknows/foresees will believe? Secondly, doesn't God's desire to save all rule out the possibility that He elects only some?

You can watch this message here.

Jesus and the Demons | Matthew 8:28-34

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 09:27:42 -0400

Here the Greg's outline for the message:

Jesus comes to the demons (v 28)
The demons respond to Jesus (v 28-31)
Jesus responds to the demons (v 32)
The people respond to Jesus (v 33-34)

You can watch the message here.

North Avenue Church Podcast

Why We Must Reject the Catholic View of Mary

Understanding Paul's Response to Jewish Opposition to the Gospel in the First Century | 1 Thessalonians 2:14-20

God and Money: Providing for the House of Our God | Nehemiah 10:32-39

How Roman Catholicism Overly Exalts Mary | A Protestant Critique

Abounding in Thanksgiving | Colossians 1-2

In the New Testament is Peter the First Pope? | A Protestant Interpretation of Matthew 16 & 18

Paul Ministered Like a Father with His Children | 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13

How Paul Ministered to the Thessalonians | 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8

The Ascension of Christ: A Neglected and Glorious Doctrine | Luke 24:48-53

Problems with the Pope: Why Protestants Reject the Papacy

You Recevied the Word in Affliction with Joy | 1 Thessalonians 1:6-10

See My Hands and My Feet: They Disbelieved for Joy | Luke 24:36-47

The Trinity: Where We as Evangelicals Tend to Go Wrong ... and Where We Can Grow | Reflections from Dr. Wellum's conference

The Road to Emmaus | Luke 24:13-35 [Easter Sermon]

The Agony of Gethsemane and the Cross | Luke 22:39-46; 23:32-49 [Good Friday]

Four Questions about Gethsemane | Matthew 26:36-46

Why the Empty Tomb Matters: An Apologetic Defense of the Resurrection | Matthew 27:57-28:15

Introducing the Thessalonian Church | 1 Thessalonians 1:1-3

Recognizing and Welcoming the King | Luke 19:28-40 [Palm Sunday]

Q&A with Dr. Steve Wellum: The Trinity, Classical Theism, Israel, the Chuch, & Christian Zionism

Renewing Our Confidence in the LORD and the Lamb | Revelation 4-5

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus from *the Confessional Standards* (God the Son Incarnate: Session 4)

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus as *the Incarnate Son* (God the Son Incarnate: Session 3)

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus as *God the Son* (God the Son Incarnate: Session 2)

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus from *the Bible's Storyline* (God the Son Incarnate: Session 1)

Doctrinal Distinctives of North Avenue Church | Prospective Member Meeting | Week 3

The Ending of Jude: Three Kinds of Strugglers and a Wonderful Doxology | Jude 22-25

A Covenant of Obedience | Nehemiah 9:38-10:31

Build Yourselves Up in Your Most Holy Faith | Jude 17-21

Sin, Discipline, and a Humbled People | Nehemiah 9:22-37

Enoch's Prophesy | Jude 14-16 (Week 5)

Waterless Clouds | Jude 11-13 (Week 4)

They rely on dreams, defile the flesh, reject authority, and blaspheme angels | Jude 8-10 (Week 3)

History from God's Perspective | Nehemiah 9:9-21

Does James Contradict Paul? | Catholic vs. Protestant Teaching on Justification (Week 3)

A Sinful People and a Great God | Nehemiah 9:1-8

What are the Marks of a Healthy Church? | Prospective Member Meeting | Week 2

Catholics vs. Protestants on Justification (Part 2)

Catholics vs. Protestants on Justification (Part 1)

As It Is Written: Careful Study and Joyful Obedience | Nehemiah 8:13-18

Beware of those who Pervert the Grace of God | Jude 4-7 (Week 2)

Church Membership and Church Discipline | Prospective Member Meeting: Week 1

The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength | Nehemiah 8:9-12

Introducing Jude: Contend for the Faith | Jude 1-3 (Week 1)

Don't Be Like Diotrephes: He Liked to Put Himself First | 3 John (Week 2)

Truth and Love | 3 John (Week 1)

Abide in the Teaching of Christ | 2 John (Week 2)

Let Us Be People of the Truth | 2 John (Week 1)

Prayer, Sin, and God's Protection of His Own | 1 John 5:13-21

What Does It Mean that 'Jesus Came By Water and By Blood'? | 1 John 5:6-12

AUTHORITY: Sola Scriptura vs. Catholic Tradition and the Pope

Four of Satan's Tactics as We Seek to Finish Well | Nehemiah 6:1-7:4

Problems with Catholicism on Authority and Grace

The Sin from Within | Nehemiah 5

The Sword and the Trowel | Nehemiah 4:15-23

Ordinary Faithfulness for a New Year | Selected Scripture

Unto Us a Child is Born | Isaiah 7:1-9:7

A Cross-Shaped Christmas | Philippians 2:1-11

Perseverance in the Face of Discouragement | Nehemiah 4:10-14

Perseverance in the Face of Opposition | Nehemiah 4:1-9

All Hands on Deck! The People Get to Work | Nehemiah 3

What is Biblical Leadership? | Nehemiah 2:17-20

Nehemiah's Godly Leadership Begins in Jerusalem | Nehemiah 2:9-16

Nehemiah's Prayerful Planning, Courageous Action, & God's Good Providence | Nehemiah 2:1-8

Nehemiah's Passionate Prayer of Repentance | Nehemiah 1:4-11

Nehemiah's Holy Ambition | Nehemiah 1:1-4

Q&A: Jesus vs. Other Religions [WCA Chapel]

Ezra Leads the People in Repentance | Ezra 9-10

This is the Victory that has Overcome the World — Our Faith | 1 John 5:1-5

We Love Because He First Loved Us | 1 John 4:13-21

Breaking Down a Conversation with Two Mormon (LDS) Missionaries

Ezra a Man of God | Ezra 7-8

God is Love | 1 John 4:7-12

What Do Mormons ('Latter Day Saints') Believe?

Discernment Needed: Test the Spirits | 1 John 4:1-6

Put on the Whole Armor of God | Ephesians 6:10-20

How God's Word Creates Obedient Worship Despite Opposition | Ezra 3-6

How Suffering Gives Us an Opportunity to Proclaim God's Goodness and Gospel to the Watching World

Eight Reasons God Prunes Us Through Suffering | John 15:2

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus from the Confessional Standards (God the Son Incarnate: Session 4)

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus as the Incarnate Son (God the Son Incarnate: Session 3)

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus as God the Son (God the Son Incarnate: Session 2)

Dr. Steve Wellum | Knowing Jesus from the Bible's Storyline (God the Son Incarnate: Session 1)