* Messages from the previous Sunday morning are typically uploaded Tuesday morning
| looking_beyond_your_circumstances_-_philippians_1-3-11.m4a |
April 22, 2018
Looking Beyond Your Circumstances
Philippians 1:3-11
Pastor Gary Harris
Looking Beyond Your Circumstances
Philippians 1:3-11
Pastor Gary Harris
| looking_beyond_your_circumstances_-_philippians_1-1-2.m4a |
April 15, 2018
Looking Beyond Your Circumstances
Philippians 1:1-2
Pastor Gary Harris
Looking Beyond Your Circumstances
Philippians 1:1-2
Pastor Gary Harris
| great_lessions_i_have_learned_-_april_8_-_2018.m4a |
April 8, 2018
Great Lessons I Have Learned
2 Peter 3:1-2
Pastor Alex Rockwell
Great Lessons I Have Learned
2 Peter 3:1-2
Pastor Alex Rockwell
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_-_john_15-1-8_.m4a |
March 18, 2018
The Day before the Crucifixion: Jesus teaching on producing fruit
John 15:1-8
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion: Jesus teaching on producing fruit
John 15:1-8
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_-_john_15-1-8_-_abide_in_me.m4a |
March 11, 2018
The Day before the Crucifixion: Jesus teaching on abiding
John 15:1-8
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion: Jesus teaching on abiding
John 15:1-8
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_-_john_14-25-31_-_right_perspective_on_trials.m4a |
March 4, 2018
The Day before the Crucifixion: Jesus teaching on trials
John 14:25-31
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion: Jesus teaching on trials
John 14:25-31
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_-_jesus_teaching_on_peace_-_john_14-27.m4a |
February 24, 2018
The Day before the Crucifixion: Jesus teaching on peace
John 14:27
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion: Jesus teaching on peace
John 14:27
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_-_obedience_-_john_14-18-24.m4a |
February 18, 2018
The Day before the Crucifixion: Jesus teaching on obedience
John 14:18-24
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion: Jesus teaching on obedience
John 14:18-24
Pastor Gary Harris
| living_for_the_line_5_-_seeing_what_not_living_for_the_line_looks_like_-_ecc_2-1-11.m4a |
February 4, 2018
Living for the Line Part 5: Testimonies of those who did not live for the line
Ecclesties 2:1-11 & Jeremiah 2:1-8
Pastor Gary Harris
Living for the Line Part 5: Testimonies of those who did not live for the line
Ecclesties 2:1-11 & Jeremiah 2:1-8
Pastor Gary Harris
| living_for_the_line_part_4_-_persecution_matthew_5-10-12.m4a |
January 28, 2018
Living for the Line Part 4: Persecution in light of eternity
Matthew 5:10-12
Pastor Gary Harris
Living for the Line Part 4: Persecution in light of eternity
Matthew 5:10-12
Pastor Gary Harris
| living_for_the_line_3_-_work_-_ephesians_6-5-9.m4a |
January 21, 2018
Living for the Line Part 3: Working for that which is eternal
Ephesians 6:5-9
Pastor Gary Harris
Living for the Line Part 3: Working for that which is eternal
Ephesians 6:5-9
Pastor Gary Harris
| living_for_the_line_part_2_-_storing_up_treasures_in_heaven.m4a |
January 14, 2018
Living for the Line Part 2: Storing up treasures in heaven
Matthew 6:19-24
Pastor Gary Harris
Living for the Line Part 2: Storing up treasures in heaven
Matthew 6:19-24
Pastor Gary Harris
| living_for_the_line_-_prayer.m4a |
January 7, 2018
Living for the Line: Prayer
Matthew 6:5-8
Pastor Gary Harris
Living for the Line: Prayer
Matthew 6:5-8
Pastor Gary Harris
| today__luke_4-14-23.m4a |
December 31
Today!
Luke 4:14-23
Pastor Wallace Jorden
Today!
Luke 4:14-23
Pastor Wallace Jorden
| heaven_part_5_-_new_heaven_and_earth_-_revelation_21-1-6.m4a |
December 10, 2017
Heaven: New heave and a new earth
Revelation 21:1-6
Pastor Gary Harris
Heaven: New heave and a new earth
Revelation 21:1-6
Pastor Gary Harris
| dec_3_2017_-_2017-12-08_3.45_pm.m4a |
December 3, 2017
Heaven: the Judgement Seat of Christ
1 Corinthians 5:5-10
Pastor Gary Harris
Heaven: the Judgement Seat of Christ
1 Corinthians 5:5-10
Pastor Gary Harris
| heaven_-_what_happens_at_the_moment_we_die_.m4a |
November 26, 2017
Heaven: What happens the moment you die?
Luke 16:19-31
Pastor Gary Harris
Heaven: What happens the moment you die?
Luke 16:19-31
Pastor Gary Harris
| heaven_part_2_-_how_do_you_get_there__john_14-1-6.m4a |
November 19, 2017
Heaven: How do you get there?
John 14:6
Pastor Gary Harris
Heaven: How do you get there?
John 14:6
Pastor Gary Harris
| heaven_-_what_does_the_bible_say_.m4a |
November 12, 2017
What Does the Bible Tell Us about Heaven?
Various passages
John Watson
What Does the Bible Tell Us about Heaven?
Various passages
John Watson
| is_god_good__god_is_a_jealous_god_-_exodus_34.m4a |
October 29, 2017
Is God Good? God is a jealous God
Exodus 34
Pastor Gary Harris
Is God Good? God is a jealous God
Exodus 34
Pastor Gary Harris
| is_god_good___is_he_vain_.m4a |
October 22, 2017
Is God Good? Addressing praise in relation to God
Various Scriptures
Pastor Gary Harris
Is God Good? Addressing praise in relation to God
Various Scriptures
Pastor Gary Harris
| is_god_good___judges_19.m4a |
* unfortunately the quality of this particular recording is poor
October 15, 2017
Is God Good? The action of the Levite toward his wife
Judges 19
Pastor Gary Harris
October 15, 2017
Is God Good? The action of the Levite toward his wife
Judges 19
Pastor Gary Harris
| is_god_good__1_samuel_15-1-3.m4a |
* unfortunately the quality of this particular recording is poor
October 1, 2017
Is God Good? Addressing the destruction of the Amalekites
1 Samuel 15:1-3
Pastor Gary Harris
October 1, 2017
Is God Good? Addressing the destruction of the Amalekites
1 Samuel 15:1-3
Pastor Gary Harris
| motivations_and_a_warning_when_working_with_youth_-_spetemeber_17_2017.m4a |
September 17, 2017
Motivations and a Warning When Working with Youth
1 Samuel 16:1-13
Pastor Gary Harris
Motivations and a Warning When Working with Youth
1 Samuel 16:1-13
Pastor Gary Harris
| baptism_questions_answered_.m4a |
September 10, 2017
Baptism Questions Answered
Matthew 3:1-17
Pastor Gary Harris
Baptism Questions Answered
Matthew 3:1-17
Pastor Gary Harris
| avoid_at_all_costs_-_causing_strife_-_proverbs_6-16-19.m4a |
September 3, 2017
AVOID AT ALL COSTS: Causing strife among the group
Proverbs 6:16-19
Pastor Gary Harris
AVOID AT ALL COSTS: Causing strife among the group
Proverbs 6:16-19
Pastor Gary Harris
| vbs_sunday_-_discovering_the_god_of_the_universe_-_psalm_8.m4a |
August 27, 2017
VBS Sunday - Discovering the God of the Universe
Psalm 8
Pastor Gary Harris
VBS Sunday - Discovering the God of the Universe
Psalm 8
Pastor Gary Harris
| avoid_at_all_costs_-_wicked_plans_and_feet_that_are_swift_to_evil_-_proverbs_6-16-19.m4a |
August 20, 2017
AVOID AT ALL COSTS: WICKED PLANS AND FEET THAT ARE SWIFT IN RUNNING TO EVIL
Proverbs 6:16-19
Pastor Gary Harris
AVOID AT ALL COSTS: WICKED PLANS AND FEET THAT ARE SWIFT IN RUNNING TO EVIL
Proverbs 6:16-19
Pastor Gary Harris
| avoid_at_all_costs_-_murder_-_proverbs_6-16-19.m4a |
August 6, 2017
AVOID AT ALL COSTS: MURDER
Proverbs 6:16-19
Pastor Gary Harris
AVOID AT ALL COSTS: MURDER
Proverbs 6:16-19
Pastor Gary Harris
| avoid_at_all_costs_-_lying_-_proverbs_6-16-19.m4a |
July 30, 2017
AVOID AT ALL COSTS: LYING
Proverbs 6:16-19
Pastor Gary Harris
AVOID AT ALL COSTS: LYING
Proverbs 6:16-19
Pastor Gary Harris
| avoid_at_all_costs_-_pride_-_proverbs_6_16-18.m4a |
July 23, 2017
AVOID AT ALL COSTS: A proud look
Proverbs 6:16-18
Pastor Gary Harris
AVOID AT ALL COSTS: A proud look
Proverbs 6:16-18
Pastor Gary Harris
| psalm_139_23-24.m4a |
July 9, 2017
Psalm 139:23-24
Pastor Wallace Jorden
Psalm 139:23-24
Pastor Wallace Jorden
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_john_14-16-18_part_2.m4a |
July 2, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:16-18 part 2
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:16-18 part 2
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_john_14_16-18.m4a |
June 18, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:16-18
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:16-18
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_-_john_14-15.m4a |
June 11, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:15
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:15
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_john_14_13-14.m4a |
June 4, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ: Part 2 on prayer
John 14:13-14
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ: Part 2 on prayer
John 14:13-14
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_john_14_12-14.m4a |
May 28, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:12-14
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:12-14
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_john_14_7-11.m4a |
May 21, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:7-11
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:7-11
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_john_14-4-6.m4a |
May 14, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:4-6
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14:4-6
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_-_john_14-1-3.m4a |
May 7, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14: 1-3
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 14: 1-3
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_john_13-36-38.m4a |
April 30, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 13:36-38
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 13:36-38
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_-_john_13-33-35.m4a |
April 23, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 13:33-35
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 13:33-35
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_-_resurrection_sunday.m4a |
April 16, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 13:31-33
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 13:31-33
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_the_crucifixion_of_jesus_christ_-_jn_chapt_13_verses_18-30.m4a |
April 9, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 13:18-30
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 13:18-30
Pastor Gary Harris
| the_day_before_jesus_christ_was_crucified_-_john_13-1-17.m4a |
April 2, 2017
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 13:1-17
Pastor Gary Harris
The Day before the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
John 13:1-17
Pastor Gary Harris
March 26, 2017
What is so Great about Salvation?
Various Passages
Pastor Alex Rockwell
*unfortunately we do not have this recording due to technical problems
What is so Great about Salvation?
Various Passages
Pastor Alex Rockwell
*unfortunately we do not have this recording due to technical problems
| belief_vs_unbelief.m4a |
March 19, 2017
Belief vs Unbelief
Various Passages
John Watson
Belief vs Unbelief
Various Passages
John Watson
| turn_of_events_-_march_12_2017.m4a |
March 12, 2017
Turn of Events
2 Samuel 9:1-11
Pastor Gary Harris
Turn of Events
2 Samuel 9:1-11
Pastor Gary Harris
| be_intentional_about_joy_part_7.m4a |
February 25, 2017
Be Intentional about Joy
7th message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
Be Intentional about Joy
7th message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
| be_intentional_about_joy_part_6.m4a |
February 19, 2017
Be Intentional about Joy
6th message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
Be Intentional about Joy
6th message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
| be_intentonal_about_joy_part_5.m4a |
February 12, 2017
Be Intentional about Joy
5th message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
Be Intentional about Joy
5th message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
| be_intentional_about_joy_part_4.m4a |
February 5, 2017
Be Intentional about Joy
4th message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
Be Intentional about Joy
4th message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
| be_intentional_about_joy_part_3.m4a |
Januray 29, 2017
Be Intentional about Joy
3rd message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
Be Intentional about Joy
3rd message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
| be_intentional_about_joy_-_part_2.m4a |
January 22, 2017
Be Intentional about Joy
2nd message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
Be Intentional about Joy
2nd message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
| jan_15_2017_.m4a |
January 15, 2017
Be Intentional about Joy
1st message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
Be Intentional about Joy
1st message in series
Pastor Gary Harris
| jan_1_2017.m4a |
January 1, 2017
True Worship
Matthew 2:1-12
Pastor Wallace Jorden
True Worship
Matthew 2:1-12
Pastor Wallace Jorden
| dec_18_2016.m4a |
December 18, 2016
What Does God Desire of You This Christmas and Beyond?
Isaiah 66:1-2
Pastor Gary Haris
What Does God Desire of You This Christmas and Beyond?
Isaiah 66:1-2
Pastor Gary Haris
| dec_11_2016_.m4a |
December 11, 2016
What Does God Desire of You This Christmas and Beyond?
Isaiah 66:1-2
Pastor Gary Harris
What Does God Desire of You This Christmas and Beyond?
Isaiah 66:1-2
Pastor Gary Harris
| dec_4_2016_.m4a |
December 4, 2016
What Does God Desire of You This Christmas and Beyond?
Isaiah 66:1-2
Pastor Gary Harris
What Does God Desire of You This Christmas and Beyond?
Isaiah 66:1-2
Pastor Gary Harris
| nov_27_2016.m4a |
November 27, 2016
Generating a Picture on How to Share Your Faith
Matthew 8:1-3
Pastor Gary Harris
Generating a Picture on How to Share Your Faith
Matthew 8:1-3
Pastor Gary Harris
| Developing a Biblical Worldview: Sex |
November 20, 2016
Developing a Biblical Worldview: Sex
Genesis 1:26-28
Pastor Gary Harris
Developing a Biblical Worldview: Sex
Genesis 1:26-28
Pastor Gary Harris
| Developing a Biblical Worldview: Love |
November 13, 2016
Developing a Biblical Worldview: Love
Luke 10:25-37
Pastor Gary Harris
Developing a Biblical Worldview: Love
Luke 10:25-37
Pastor Gary Harris
| Developing a Biblical Worldview: Work |
October 30, 2016
Developing a Biblical Worldview: Work
Ephesians 6:5-9
Pastor Gary Harris
Developing a Biblical Worldview: Work
Ephesians 6:5-9
Pastor Gary Harris
| Developing a Biblical Worldview: God |
October 23, 2016
Developing a Biblical Worldview: God
James 2:14-20
Pastor Gary Harris
Developing a Biblical Worldview: God
James 2:14-20
Pastor Gary Harris
| Developing a Biblical Worldview: Humanity |
October 16, 2016
Developing a Biblical Worldview: Humanity
Genesis 1:26-28
Pastor Gary Harris
Developing a Biblical Worldview: Humanity
Genesis 1:26-28
Pastor Gary Harris
| oct_9_2016_-_2016.m4a |
October 9, 2016
Give Thanks
I Thessalonians 5:18
Pastor Gary Harris
Give Thanks
I Thessalonians 5:18
Pastor Gary Harris
| oct_2_2016_-_2016.m4a |
October 2, 2016
Developing a Biblical Worldview: What is truth?
John 18:37-38
Pastor Gary Harris
Developing a Biblical Worldview: What is truth?
John 18:37-38
Pastor Gary Harris
| sept_25_2016.m4a |
September 25, 2016
Pursuing Satisfaction
Philippians 3:12-14
Pastor Gary Harris
Pursuing Satisfaction
Philippians 3:12-14
Pastor Gary Harris
| sept_18_2016.m4a |
September 18, 2016
Summer in the Psalms: How well does God know you?
Psalm 139
Pastor Gary Harris
Summer in the Psalms: How well does God know you?
Psalm 139
Pastor Gary Harris
| sept_11_2016.m4a |
September 11, 2016
Summer in the Psalms: What can you do with the Word of God?
Psalm 119
Pastor Gary Harris
Summer in the Psalms: What can you do with the Word of God?
Psalm 119
Pastor Gary Harris
| sept_4_2016.m4a |
September 4, 2016
Summer in the Psalms: Finding satisfaction amongst the hard realities of life
Psalm 90
Pastor Gary Harris
Summer in the Psalms: Finding satisfaction amongst the hard realities of life
Psalm 90
Pastor Gary Harris
| aug_28_2016.m4a |
August 28, 2016
Summer in the Psalms: God'd deals with sin not always in the here and now
Psalm 73
Pastor Gary Harris
Summer in the Psalms: God'd deals with sin not always in the here and now
Psalm 73
Pastor Gary Harris
| aug_21_2016.m4a |
August 21, 2016
Summer in the Psalms: Do you feel overwhelmed?
Psalm 77
Pastor Gary Harris
Summer in the Psalms: Do you feel overwhelmed?
Psalm 77
Pastor Gary Harris
| aug_14_2016.m4a |
August 14, 2016
Summer in the Psalms: Unloading the weight of sin
Psalm 32
Pastor Gary Harris
Summer in the Psalms: Unloading the weight of sin
Psalm 32
Pastor Gary Harris
| august_7_2016.m4a |
August 7, 2016
Summer in the Psalms: The Lord in my Shepherd is not just for funerals
Psalm 23
Pastor Gary Harris
Summer in the Psalms: The Lord in my Shepherd is not just for funerals
Psalm 23
Pastor Gary Harris
| july_31_2016.m4a |
July 31, 2016
Summer in the Psalms: Two primary tools God uses to teach us
Psalm 8
Pastlr Gary Harris
Summer in the Psalms: Two primary tools God uses to teach us
Psalm 8
Pastlr Gary Harris
| july_17_2016.m4a |
July 17, 2016
Angles
Various Scriptures
John Watson
Angles
Various Scriptures
John Watson
| july_10_2016.m4a |
July 10, 2016
Share Your Faith!
Matthew 4:19
John Watson
Share Your Faith!
Matthew 4:19
John Watson
| july_3_2016_-_2016.m4a |
July 3, 2016
Summer in the Psalms: A prescription against feeling insignificant
Psalm 8
Pastor Gary Harris
Summer in the Psalms: A prescription against feeling insignificant
Psalm 8
Pastor Gary Harris
| june_26_2016.m4a |
June 26, 2016
Summer in the Psalms: How do you fit into this Psalm?
Psalm 1 & Matthew 7:13-14
Pastor Gary Harris
Summer in the Psalms: How do you fit into this Psalm?
Psalm 1 & Matthew 7:13-14
Pastor Gary Harris
| jun_19_2016.m4a |
June 19, 2016
Reviewing Improving Your Vision
2 Peter 1:1-11
Pastor Gary Harris
Reviewing Improving Your Vision
2 Peter 1:1-11
Pastor Gary Harris
| june_5_2016.m4a |
June 5, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Your prescription reads to add love
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Your prescription reads to add love
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
| may_29_2016.m4a |
May 29, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Your prescription reads to add brotherly kindness
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Your prescription reads to add brotherly kindness
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
| may_22_2016.m4a |
May 22, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Your prescription reads to add godliness
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Your prescription reads to add godliness
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
| msy_15_2016.m4a |
May 15, 2016
Improving Your Vision: You are prescription reads to add patience
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: You are prescription reads to add patience
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
| may_8_2016.m4a |
May 8, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Your prescriptions reads to add self control
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Your prescriptions reads to add self control
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
| may_1_2016_.m4a |
May 1, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Your prescription reads to add knowledge
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Your prescription reads to add knowledge
2 Peter 1:5
Pastor Gary Harris
| april_24_2016.m4a |
April 24, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Your prescriptions reads to add virtue
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:1-17
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Your prescriptions reads to add virtue
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:1-17
Pastor Gary Harris
| april_17_2016.m4a |
April 17, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Seeing yourself in the reflection of the 10th commandment - you shall not covet your neighbours house etc...
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:17
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Seeing yourself in the reflection of the 10th commandment - you shall not covet your neighbours house etc...
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:17
Pastor Gary Harris
| apr_3_2016.m4a |
April 3, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Seeing yourself in the reflection of the 9th commandment - you shall not bear false witness against your neighbour
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:16
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Seeing yourself in the reflection of the 9th commandment - you shall not bear false witness against your neighbour
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:16
Pastor Gary Harris
| march_27_2016_.m4a |
March 27, 2016
Resurrection Sunday
John 1:1-44
Pastor Gary Harris
Resurrection Sunday
John 1:1-44
Pastor Gary Harris
| march_13_2016.m4a |
March 13, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 8th commandment - you shall not steal
2:Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:15
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 8th commandment - you shall not steal
2:Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:15
Pastor Gary Harris
| march_7_2016_.m4a |
March 6, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 7th commandment - you shall not commit adultery
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:14
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 7th commandment - you shall not commit adultery
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:14
Pastor Gary Harris
| feb_28_2016.m4a |
February 28, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 6th commandment - you shall not murder
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:13
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 6th commandment - you shall not murder
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:13
Pastor Gary Harris
| feb_21_2016_.m4a |
February 21, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 5th commandment - honor your father and mother
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:1-12
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 5th commandment - honor your father and mother
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:1-12
Pastor Gary Harris
| feb_14_2016.m4a |
February 14, 2016
Amazing Grace
Romans 3:21-25
John Watson
Amazing Grace
Romans 3:21-25
John Watson
February 7, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 4th commandment - you shall remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:8-11
Pastor Gary Harris
*due to a technical problem there is no recording of this message
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 4th commandment - you shall remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:8-11
Pastor Gary Harris
*due to a technical problem there is no recording of this message
| jan_31_2016.m4a |
January 31, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 3rd commandment - you shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:1-7
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 3rd commandment - you shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:1-7
Pastor Gary Harris
| jan_24_2016.m4a |
January 24, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 2nd commandment - you shall not make for yourself a carved image
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:1-6
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 2nd commandment - you shall not make for yourself a carved image
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:1-6
Pastor Gary Harris
| jan_17_2016.m4a |
January 17, 2016
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 1st commandment - you shall have no other gods before Me
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:1-3
Pastor Gary Harris
Improving Your Vision: Seeing your reflection in the 1st commandment - you shall have no other gods before Me
2 Peter 1:1-11 & Exodus 20:1-3
Pastor Gary Harris
January 10, 2016
Improving Your Vision
2 Peter 1:1-11
Pastor Gary Harris
*due to technical problems there is no recording of this message
Improving Your Vision
2 Peter 1:1-11
Pastor Gary Harris
*due to technical problems there is no recording of this message
| jan_3_2016.m4a |
January 3, 2016
Charging Your Batteries
Mark 12:28-34
Pastor Gary Harris
Charging Your Batteries
Mark 12:28-34
Pastor Gary Harris
| dec_27_2015_.m4a |
December 27, 2015
After Christmas... What then?
Luke 2:22-40
Pastor Wallace Jorden
After Christmas... What then?
Luke 2:22-40
Pastor Wallace Jorden
| dec_20_2015.m4a |
December 20, 2015
Beauty Hidden in the Seemingly Ordinary
Luke 2:1-7
Pastor Gary Harris
Beauty Hidden in the Seemingly Ordinary
Luke 2:1-7
Pastor Gary Harris
| dec_13_2015.m4a |
December 13, 2015
Christmas Preparations
Luke 1:5-25
Pastor Gary Harris
Christmas Preparations
Luke 1:5-25
Pastor Gary Harris
| dec_6_2015_-_2015-12-08_9.52_am.m4a |
December 6, 2015
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Positioning yourself for God to do a work in your life through His Word
Nehemiah 8:1-12
Pastor Gary Harris
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Positioning yourself for God to do a work in your life through His Word
Nehemiah 8:1-12
Pastor Gary Harris
| nov_29_2015.m4a |
November 29, 2015
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Following God's Leading
Nehemiah 7:4-5
Pastor Gary Harris
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Following God's Leading
Nehemiah 7:4-5
Pastor Gary Harris
November 22, 2015
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Standing out among your peers
Nehemiah 7:1-3
Pastor Gary Harris
*due to technical problems there is no recording of this message
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Standing out among your peers
Nehemiah 7:1-3
Pastor Gary Harris
*due to technical problems there is no recording of this message
November 15, 2015
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Don't allow the enemy to get you off track
Nehemiah 6:1-15
Pastor Gary Harris
* due to technical problems there is no recording of this message
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Don't allow the enemy to get you off track
Nehemiah 6:1-15
Pastor Gary Harris
* due to technical problems there is no recording of this message
| nov.8_2015.m4a |
November 8, 2015
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Handling people problems
Nehemiah 5:1-13
Pastor Gary Harris
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Handling people problems
Nehemiah 5:1-13
Pastor Gary Harris
| nov_1_2015.m4a |
November 1, 2015
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Dealing with discouragement
Nehemiah 5:1-16
Pastor Gary Harris
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Dealing with discouragement
Nehemiah 5:1-16
Pastor Gary Harris
| oct._25.m4a |
October 25, 2015
Lessons from the Life of Mepibesheth
2 Samuel 9:1-13
Pastor Alex Rockwell
Lessons from the Life of Mepibesheth
2 Samuel 9:1-13
Pastor Alex Rockwell
October 18, 2015
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Dealing with our enemies
Nehemiah 4:1-5
Pastor Gary Harris
*due to a technical problem there is no recording for this message
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Dealing with our enemies
Nehemiah 4:1-5
Pastor Gary Harris
*due to a technical problem there is no recording for this message
| oct_11_2015.m4a |
October 11, 2015
Thanksgiving: Batteling the Added Weight of Anxiety
1 Philippians 4:4-7
Pastor Gary Harris
Thanksgiving: Batteling the Added Weight of Anxiety
1 Philippians 4:4-7
Pastor Gary Harris
| oct_5_2015.m4a |
October 4, 2015
I CAN'T DO THAT...
2 Timothy 1:7
John Watson
I CAN'T DO THAT...
2 Timothy 1:7
John Watson
| sept_27_2015.m4a |
September 27, 2015
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Working well with one another
Nehemiah 3
Pastor Gary Harris
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Working well with one another
Nehemiah 3
Pastor Gary Harris
| sept_20_2015.m4a |
September 20, 2015
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Be a catalyst for change
Nehemiah 2:1-10 & 17-20
Pastor Gary Harris
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Be a catalyst for change
Nehemiah 2:1-10 & 17-20
Pastor Gary Harris
| sept_13_2015.m4a |
September 13, 2015
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Get your prayer "focused"
Nehemiah 1:1-11
Pastor Gary Harris
LIFE LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH: Get your prayer "focused"
Nehemiah 1:1-11
Pastor Gary Harris
| sept_6_2015.m4a |
September 6, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Assessing the Fruit
John 14:16-17 & John 16:13-14
Pastor Gary Harris
Fruit of the Spirit: Assessing the Fruit
John 14:16-17 & John 16:13-14
Pastor Gary Harris
| august_30_2015.m4a |
August 31, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Self-Control
Matthew 26:36-42
Pastor Gary Harris
Fruit of the Spirit: Self-Control
Matthew 26:36-42
Pastor Gary Harris
| august_23_2015_w_jorden.m4a |
August 23, 2015
JESUS AND THE CHILDREN
Matthew 18:1-14
Pastor Wallace Jorden
JESUS AND THE CHILDREN
Matthew 18:1-14
Pastor Wallace Jorden
| august_16_2015.m4a |
August 16, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness
Matthew 26:47-56
Pastor Gary Harris
Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness
Matthew 26:47-56
Pastor Gary Harris
| august_9_2015.m4a |
August 9, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Faithfulness
Matthew 26:36-46
Pastor Gary Harris
Fruit of the Spirit: Faithfulness
Matthew 26:36-46
Pastor Gary Harris
| august_2_2015.m4a |
August 2, 2015
Known in the Breaking of Bread
Luke 24:13-35
Pastor Wallace Jorden
Known in the Breaking of Bread
Luke 24:13-35
Pastor Wallace Jorden
| july_26_2015.m4a |
July 26, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Goodness
Matthew 19:16-22
Pastor Gary Harris
Fruit of the Spirit: Goodness
Matthew 19:16-22
Pastor Gary Harris
| july_19_2015.m4a |
July 19, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness
Luke 19:1-10
Pastor Gary Harris
Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness
Luke 19:1-10
Pastor Gary Harris
| june_28_2015.m4a |
June 28, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Patience
Matthew 26:36-46
Pastor Gary Harris
Fruit of the Spirit: Patience
Matthew 26:36-46
Pastor Gary Harris
| june_21_2015.m4a |
June 21, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Peace
Matthew 14:22-33
Pastor Gary Harris
Fruit of the Spirit: Peace
Matthew 14:22-33
Pastor Gary Harris
| june_14_2015.m4a |
June 14, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
1 Kings 18-19:4
Pastor Gary Harris
* we apologize for the sound of this particular recording due to a technical problem
Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
1 Kings 18-19:4
Pastor Gary Harris
* we apologize for the sound of this particular recording due to a technical problem
| june_7_2015.m4a |
June 7, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Love
Luke 10:25-37
Pastor Gary Harris
Fruit of the Spirit: Love
Luke 10:25-37
Pastor Gary Harris
| may_31_2015.m4a |
May 31, 2015
Fruit of the Spirit: Preparing the ground
Galatians 5:16-25
Pastor Gary Harris
Fruit of the Spirit: Preparing the ground
Galatians 5:16-25
Pastor Gary Harris
| jan_18_2015.m4a |
January 18, 2015
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the way, the truth, and the life
Pastor Gary Harris
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the way, the truth, and the life
Pastor Gary Harris
| jan.11_2015.m4a |
January 11, 2015
WHO JESUS IS : I Am the Door
Pastor Gary Harris
WHO JESUS IS : I Am the Door
Pastor Gary Harris
| dec.14.m4a |
December 14, 2014
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Vine Part 2
Pastor Gary Harris
John 15:1-11
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Vine Part 2
Pastor Gary Harris
John 15:1-11
| dec.7.m4a |
December 7, 2014
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Vine
Pastor Gary Harris
John 15:1-11
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Vine
Pastor Gary Harris
John 15:1-11
| nov.30.m4a |
November 30, 2014
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Resurrection and the LIfe
Pastor Gary Harris
John 11:1-6 & 17-44
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Resurrection and the LIfe
Pastor Gary Harris
John 11:1-6 & 17-44
| nov.23.m4a |
November 23, 2014
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Good Shepherd
Pastor Gary Harris
John 9:35-10:21
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Good Shepherd
Pastor Gary Harris
John 9:35-10:21
| nov_16.m4a |
November 16, 2014
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Light of the World
Pastor Gary Harris
John 8:12-20
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Light of the World
Pastor Gary Harris
John 8:12-20
| nov._9.m4a |
November 9, 2014
Psalm 46
Pastor Alex Rockwell
Psalm 46
Pastor Alex Rockwell
| nov.2.m4a |
November 2, 2014
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Bread of Life
Pastor Gary Harris
John 8:22-35
WHO JESUS IS: I Am the Bread of Life
Pastor Gary Harris
John 8:22-35
| october_26.m4a |
October 26, 2014
WHO JESUS IS: I Am
Pastor Gary Harris
John 8:31:58
WHO JESUS IS: I Am
Pastor Gary Harris
John 8:31:58
| october_12.m4a |
October 12, 2014
GIVE THANKS!
Pastor Gary Harris
1 Thessalonians 5:18
GIVE THANKS!
Pastor Gary Harris
1 Thessalonians 5:18
| october_5.m4a |
October 5, 2014
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: The conclusion
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 11:9-12:14
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: The conclusion
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 11:9-12:14
| september_27.m4a |
September 27, 2014
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Which picture best represents you?
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 9:14-10:15
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Which picture best represents you?
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 9:14-10:15
September 21, 2014
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: This instruction doesn't sit well but it works!
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 7:1-8
* this message was not recorded due to technical difficulties
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: This instruction doesn't sit well but it works!
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 7:1-8
* this message was not recorded due to technical difficulties
| september_14.m4a |
September 14, 2014
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Guarding against being obsessed with money?
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 5:10-20
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Guarding against being obsessed with money?
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 5:10-20
| september_7.m4a |
September 7, 2014
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Watch your step!
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Watch your step!
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
| august_17.m4a |
August 17, 2014
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Living under the cloud of injustice
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 3:16-22
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Living under the cloud of injustice
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 3:16-22
| aug.10.m4a |
August 10, 2014
Even So, Come, Lord Jesus!
Pastor Wallace Jorden
Acts 1:1-14
Even So, Come, Lord Jesus!
Pastor Wallace Jorden
Acts 1:1-14
| Aug.3: Alex Rockwell.m4a |
August 3, 2014
Understanding Our Times
Pastor Alex Rockwell
Matthew 24
Understanding Our Times
Pastor Alex Rockwell
Matthew 24
| july_29.m4a |
July 27, 2014
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Seeing the value of time.
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 3:1-15
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Seeing the value of time.
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 3:1-15
| july_20.m4a |
July 20, 2014
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Taking a look at pleasure
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 2:1-11
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Taking a look at pleasure
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 2:1-11
| july_13.m4a |
July 13, 2014
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Getting nowhere fast
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 1:1-18
SHATTERING OUR VIEW OF LIFE UNDER THE SUN: Getting nowhere fast
Pastor Gary Harris
Ecclesiastes 1:1-18
| june_29.m4a |
June 29, 2014
The Call of Matthew
Pastor Wallace Jorden
Matthew 9:9-13
The Call of Matthew
Pastor Wallace Jorden
Matthew 9:9-13
| june_22.m4a |
June 22, 2014
Drawing a Picture of Salvation: Jesus cleanses a leper
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 8:1-3
Drawing a Picture of Salvation: Jesus cleanses a leper
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 8:1-3
| june_15.m4a |
June 15, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Preparing for the storms
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:24-29
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Preparing for the storms
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:24-29
| june_8.m4a |
June 8, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Are you the real deal?
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:21-23
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Are you the real deal?
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:21-23
| june_1.m4a |
June 1, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Don't be deceived by false prophets
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:15-20
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Don't be deceived by false prophets
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:15-20
| may_25.m4a |
May 25, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: The narrow vs. the wide road
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:13-14
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: The narrow vs. the wide road
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:13-14
| may_18_msg..m4a |
May 18, 2014
Trials and Tribulations of Life
Steve Wagstaff
Acts 27:13-38
Trials and Tribulations of Life
Steve Wagstaff
Acts 27:13-38
| may_11.m4a |
May 11, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Prayer is not a blank cheque
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:7-12
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Prayer is not a blank cheque
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:7-12
| may_4.m4a |
May 4, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: To judge of not to judge?
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:1-6
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: To judge of not to judge?
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 7:1-6
| april_27.m4a |
April 27, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Don't worry!
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:25-34
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Don't worry!
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:25-34
| April 6.m4a |
April 6, 2014
The Great Divide
Pastor Wallace Jorden
Matthew 16: 13-20
We are thankful to have Pastor Wallace Jorden sharing with us this morning from God's Word. It has been said there are only two groups of leaders in the world: those who divide people and those who unite people. The truth is: we live in a divided and dangerous world with rogue nations and leaders, concerned more about acquiring power and military supremacy than caring for and serving their people. In our lesson today, Jesus asks a question that both divides people and unites people with God.
The Great Divide
Pastor Wallace Jorden
Matthew 16: 13-20
We are thankful to have Pastor Wallace Jorden sharing with us this morning from God's Word. It has been said there are only two groups of leaders in the world: those who divide people and those who unite people. The truth is: we live in a divided and dangerous world with rogue nations and leaders, concerned more about acquiring power and military supremacy than caring for and serving their people. In our lesson today, Jesus asks a question that both divides people and unites people with God.
| March 30.m4a |
March 30, 2014
For All the Right Reasons
Pastor Alex Rockwell
II Corinthians 5: 1-20
We are so thankful to have Pastor Alex Rockwell sharing with us today from God's Word. May we listen and apply what is taught this morning; and as a result, grow in our relationship with Jesus. May our roots of faith dig deeper and soak up the many treasures of God's Word. Pastor Alex opens this portion of scripture and gives us five reasons why we should live for God.
For All the Right Reasons
Pastor Alex Rockwell
II Corinthians 5: 1-20
We are so thankful to have Pastor Alex Rockwell sharing with us today from God's Word. May we listen and apply what is taught this morning; and as a result, grow in our relationship with Jesus. May our roots of faith dig deeper and soak up the many treasures of God's Word. Pastor Alex opens this portion of scripture and gives us five reasons why we should live for God.
| march_23-14.m4a |
March 23, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Where is your treasure?
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:19-24
Let's not be focused on building up treasures here on earth! This is a lesson that I hope and pray you learn today from our study of God’s Word but my prayer is not only that you learn about the proper focus regarding earthly treasures but that you also become very concerned about heavenly treasure. Treasure that is acquired as we live out our lives with an eternal perspective having our focus on God.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Where is your treasure?
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:19-24
Let's not be focused on building up treasures here on earth! This is a lesson that I hope and pray you learn today from our study of God’s Word but my prayer is not only that you learn about the proper focus regarding earthly treasures but that you also become very concerned about heavenly treasure. Treasure that is acquired as we live out our lives with an eternal perspective having our focus on God.
| march_16.m4a |
March 16, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Fasting in Secret
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:16-18
Jesus has addressed giving in secret. He has addressed praying in secret. Now he address fasting in secret. We are not surprised to be called to give and to pray but we are caught off guard when He call us to fast.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Fasting in Secret
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:16-18
Jesus has addressed giving in secret. He has addressed praying in secret. Now he address fasting in secret. We are not surprised to be called to give and to pray but we are caught off guard when He call us to fast.
| march_9.m4a |
March 9, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Praying in Secret Part 3
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:11-15 We benefit when we learn experts because they know what they are talking about. This morning we are going to continue to lean about prayer from Jesus Christ. He gives us a guide that will benefit His followers as they commune with their Heavenly Father. Jesus continues to instruct us in praying in secret by taking us through the Lord's Prayer.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Praying in Secret Part 3
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:11-15 We benefit when we learn experts because they know what they are talking about. This morning we are going to continue to lean about prayer from Jesus Christ. He gives us a guide that will benefit His followers as they commune with their Heavenly Father. Jesus continues to instruct us in praying in secret by taking us through the Lord's Prayer.
| march_2.m4a |
March 2, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Praying in Secret Part 2
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:9-10 We benefit when we learn experts because they know what they are talking about. This morning we are going to be leaning about prayer from Jesus Christ. He gives us a guide that will benefit His followers as they commune with their Heavenly Father. Jesus continues to instruct us in praying in secret by taking us through the Lord's Prayer.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Praying in Secret Part 2
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:9-10 We benefit when we learn experts because they know what they are talking about. This morning we are going to be leaning about prayer from Jesus Christ. He gives us a guide that will benefit His followers as they commune with their Heavenly Father. Jesus continues to instruct us in praying in secret by taking us through the Lord's Prayer.
| feb.16.m4a |
February 16, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Praying in Secret
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:5-8
Last week we covered a section of scripture in which Jesus warns us regarding our motive for giving. He warns us regarding missing out of the blessing of God by giving with the wrong motive. This week Jesus has another warning for us and it has to do with our prayer life.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Praying in Secret
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:5-8
Last week we covered a section of scripture in which Jesus warns us regarding our motive for giving. He warns us regarding missing out of the blessing of God by giving with the wrong motive. This week Jesus has another warning for us and it has to do with our prayer life.
| feb.9.m4a |
February 9, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Giving in secret
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:1-4
This morning you are going to be given a warning by Jesus Christ. It is a warning that you will want to pay close attention to and ensure you do not have to deal with the cost of ignoring it. The warning that Jesus places in plain view in front of us has to do with giving.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Giving in secret
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 6:1-4
This morning you are going to be given a warning by Jesus Christ. It is a warning that you will want to pay close attention to and ensure you do not have to deal with the cost of ignoring it. The warning that Jesus places in plain view in front of us has to do with giving.
| feb.2.m4a |
February 2, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Obtaining an unreachable goal
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:48
In our passage of Scripture today Jesus presents a goal that He sets out before us. A goal that upon accomplishing brings not only temporary satisfaction but also eternal. The daunting reality of this goal is that regardless of how much effort you put into it you will never accomplish it. You will always fall short. Thankfully Jesus made it possible for us to accomplish this goal through Him.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Obtaining an unreachable goal
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:48
In our passage of Scripture today Jesus presents a goal that He sets out before us. A goal that upon accomplishing brings not only temporary satisfaction but also eternal. The daunting reality of this goal is that regardless of how much effort you put into it you will never accomplish it. You will always fall short. Thankfully Jesus made it possible for us to accomplish this goal through Him.
| jan.26.m4a |
January 26, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: The ultimate challenge
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:43-47
We have all faced challenges in that that seem daunting. Today we are going to face a challenge that Jesus presents before His followers that will make your head spin and your stomach turn...
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: The ultimate challenge
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:43-47
We have all faced challenges in that that seem daunting. Today we are going to face a challenge that Jesus presents before His followers that will make your head spin and your stomach turn...
| jan.19.m4a |
January 19,2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Going above and beyond what people expect
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:38-42
In our passage today Jesus calls his followers to go beyond what is people would normally expect of them. Jesus calls you to go beyond what you would expect of yourself. Jesus calls you to take a risk, go beyond your natural limitations, and allow God to use you as a means to draw people to Himself.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Going above and beyond what people expect
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:38-42
In our passage today Jesus calls his followers to go beyond what is people would normally expect of them. Jesus calls you to go beyond what you would expect of yourself. Jesus calls you to take a risk, go beyond your natural limitations, and allow God to use you as a means to draw people to Himself.
| jan.12.m4a |
January 12, 2014
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Being a person of integrity
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:33-37
In construction great lengths are taken to ensure the integrity of a building. Ensuring it will hold up under weight. This morning as we look at our passage of Scripture your own integrity is going to be questioned. How will it hold up? Does your word hold up under what you say?
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Being a person of integrity
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:33-37
In construction great lengths are taken to ensure the integrity of a building. Ensuring it will hold up under weight. This morning as we look at our passage of Scripture your own integrity is going to be questioned. How will it hold up? Does your word hold up under what you say?
| dec.8.m4a |
December 8, 2013
Preparing for Christmas: Completing a last minute detail
Pastor Gary Harris
Luke 1:5-25
This morning we're going to look at a last minute detail regarding the preparation of the birth of Christ. This detail is unlike most of our last minute details. It was carried not out in a panic fashion. The detail fit into the perfect timing of the Sovereign plan of God Himself.
Preparing for Christmas: Completing a last minute detail
Pastor Gary Harris
Luke 1:5-25
This morning we're going to look at a last minute detail regarding the preparation of the birth of Christ. This detail is unlike most of our last minute details. It was carried not out in a panic fashion. The detail fit into the perfect timing of the Sovereign plan of God Himself.
| dec.1.m4a |
December 1, 2013
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Avoid getting trapped!
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:27-32
In the section of Scripture we're covering today Jesus warns us with some fairly harsh word pictures concerning the severity of being trapped (trapped in adultery). The focus of today is on married couples but a number of principles regarding sexual sins are applied to both married, dating, and singles alike.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Avoid getting trapped!
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:27-32
In the section of Scripture we're covering today Jesus warns us with some fairly harsh word pictures concerning the severity of being trapped (trapped in adultery). The focus of today is on married couples but a number of principles regarding sexual sins are applied to both married, dating, and singles alike.
| nov.24.m4a |
November 24, 2013
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Seeing anger at a different angle
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:21-26
We often like surprises don’t we? They catch us off guard and we appreciate that but not always! Sometimes surprises absolutely throw us. In the passage we are going to be focusing on today Jesus solves for us a murder mystery and it is very alarming who the guilty party is. It is not whom you would of suspected.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Seeing anger at a different angle
Pastor Gary Harris
Matthew 5:21-26
We often like surprises don’t we? They catch us off guard and we appreciate that but not always! Sometimes surprises absolutely throw us. In the passage we are going to be focusing on today Jesus solves for us a murder mystery and it is very alarming who the guilty party is. It is not whom you would of suspected.
| nov.17.m4a |
November 17, 2013
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Are you up for the challenge?
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:17-20
Have you been challenged recently to accomplish something that is far beyond your reach? Jesus presents such a challenge in the passage of Scripture we will be covering today.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Are you up for the challenge?
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:17-20
Have you been challenged recently to accomplish something that is far beyond your reach? Jesus presents such a challenge in the passage of Scripture we will be covering today.
November 10, 2013
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Being salt and light
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:13-16
Jesus call His followers to life a life of significance. They are to be salt and light. This morning we are going to address how you can be salt and light to the people around you.
Building Your Foundation Upon the Words in Red: Being salt and light
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:13-16
Jesus call His followers to life a life of significance. They are to be salt and light. This morning we are going to address how you can be salt and light to the people around you.
| nov.3.m4a |
November 3, 2013
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are those who are persecuted
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:10-12
Today we are focusing on the final blessed attitude that Jesus shared with His disciples as well as the multitude of people gathered on the mountain side that day. He has surprised people with the previous blessed attitudes but this would appear to be the biggest surprise yet. Today we are going to focus on how two seemingly opposing forces come together - blessing and persecution.
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are those who are persecuted
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:10-12
Today we are focusing on the final blessed attitude that Jesus shared with His disciples as well as the multitude of people gathered on the mountain side that day. He has surprised people with the previous blessed attitudes but this would appear to be the biggest surprise yet. Today we are going to focus on how two seemingly opposing forces come together - blessing and persecution.
| oct.27.m4a |
October 21, 2013
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are the peacemakers
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:9
In our beatitude this morning Jesus calls us to take action. He calls His followers to be peacemakers. God has strategically placed us in relationships with other people and we are to be active in those relationships in pursing peace with other people and God as well of other people with each other.
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are the peacemakers
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:9
In our beatitude this morning Jesus calls us to take action. He calls His followers to be peacemakers. God has strategically placed us in relationships with other people and we are to be active in those relationships in pursing peace with other people and God as well of other people with each other.
| oct.20.m4a |
October 20, 2013
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:8
We will address the heart as we continue to have our attitudes altered through the teachings of Jesus through a section of Scripture known as the beatitudes (blessed attitudes). In the beatitudes Jesus directs His hearers to where they can find bliss. He directs them to an experience they can have that is initiated by a change in attitude. Today we will focus on His direction on how to experience the bliss of actually seeing God.
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:8
We will address the heart as we continue to have our attitudes altered through the teachings of Jesus through a section of Scripture known as the beatitudes (blessed attitudes). In the beatitudes Jesus directs His hearers to where they can find bliss. He directs them to an experience they can have that is initiated by a change in attitude. Today we will focus on His direction on how to experience the bliss of actually seeing God.
| oct.13.m4a |
October 13, 2013
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:7
This morning we are going to be challenged to take compassion to the next level. We are going to be challenged to put it into action. Great intentions and concerns are of no real benefit to anyone until they are expressed in acts of mercy. Jesus did not call his followers to simply be concerned for those in need, He called us to be merciful.
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:7
This morning we are going to be challenged to take compassion to the next level. We are going to be challenged to put it into action. Great intentions and concerns are of no real benefit to anyone until they are expressed in acts of mercy. Jesus did not call his followers to simply be concerned for those in need, He called us to be merciful.
| oct.6.m4a |
October 6, 2013
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:6
This morning we are going to be directed to focus on what should be our greatest craving as well as our greatest means of satisfaction. When you put these two together, craving & means of satisfaction, the end result can best be described as bliss
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:6
This morning we are going to be directed to focus on what should be our greatest craving as well as our greatest means of satisfaction. When you put these two together, craving & means of satisfaction, the end result can best be described as bliss
| sept.29.m4a |
September 29, 2013
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are the meek
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:5
Would meek be a characteristic that you would find appealing in your own life? Is it is a characteristic you strive towards? The most important question for a follower of Jesus Christ needs to be: Is meekness a characteristic Jesus would desire for you to strive towards? The third beatitude we will be covering will address these questions as well as highlight a blessing that is available to those who know Christ as their King.
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are the meek
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:5
Would meek be a characteristic that you would find appealing in your own life? Is it is a characteristic you strive towards? The most important question for a follower of Jesus Christ needs to be: Is meekness a characteristic Jesus would desire for you to strive towards? The third beatitude we will be covering will address these questions as well as highlight a blessing that is available to those who know Christ as their King.
| sept.22.m4a |
September 22, 2013
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are those who mourn
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:4
The beatitude we will be focusing on this morning is a blessing that has a prerequisite that does not seem very appealing. It has to do with something that we all have a tendency to try and avoid. It has to do with something we are not only to experience but embrace. The prerequisite for this blessing is mourning.
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are those who mourn
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:4
The beatitude we will be focusing on this morning is a blessing that has a prerequisite that does not seem very appealing. It has to do with something that we all have a tendency to try and avoid. It has to do with something we are not only to experience but embrace. The prerequisite for this blessing is mourning.
| sept.15.m4a |
September 15, 2013
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are the poor in spirit
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:3
This morning we are venturing on a new sermon series based on conditional blessings promised in Matthew 5 which have long been called the Beatitudes. I trust this series will bring about an alteration in your attitude regarding the way you view yourself and life and the end result will be a change in the way you do life resulting in you being blessed and God being glorified.
Experiencing the Blessing of an Alteration in Attitude: Blessed are the poor in spirit
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Matthew 5:3
This morning we are venturing on a new sermon series based on conditional blessings promised in Matthew 5 which have long been called the Beatitudes. I trust this series will bring about an alteration in your attitude regarding the way you view yourself and life and the end result will be a change in the way you do life resulting in you being blessed and God being glorified.
| sept.8.m4a |
September 8, 2013
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 50:20
This morning as we continue on with, and wrap up our series, you are going to be challenged from God’s Word to model an aspect of Joseph’s life that he so beautifully displayed - forgiveness.
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 50:20
This morning as we continue on with, and wrap up our series, you are going to be challenged from God’s Word to model an aspect of Joseph’s life that he so beautifully displayed - forgiveness.
| sept.1.m4a |
September 1, 2013
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 41
Joseph was a man who experienced severe testing of his faith during his life. This testing was for a purpose. This morning, we are going to learn about the purpose of trials in our lives as they relate to our faith.
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 41
Joseph was a man who experienced severe testing of his faith during his life. This testing was for a purpose. This morning, we are going to learn about the purpose of trials in our lives as they relate to our faith.
| august_25.m4a |
August 25, 2013
Why God? Lesssons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 39:21 - 40:23
Today we are going to be focusing on a virtue that can enable us to experience greater joy and satisfaction in God. A virtue that the society that you now live in programs you against. The virtue is patience.
Why God? Lesssons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 39:21 - 40:23
Today we are going to be focusing on a virtue that can enable us to experience greater joy and satisfaction in God. A virtue that the society that you now live in programs you against. The virtue is patience.
| august_18.m4a |
August 18, 2013
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 39:1-20
This week in our series as we focus on the life of Joseph we are going to address temptation. Recognizing that temptation can be something that leads you to being robbed of your joy and satisfaction in God but also realizing that having the right response to temptation can result in God being glorified. We are going to seek out Biblical aids in order to most effectively respond to temptation.
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 39:1-20
This week in our series as we focus on the life of Joseph we are going to address temptation. Recognizing that temptation can be something that leads you to being robbed of your joy and satisfaction in God but also realizing that having the right response to temptation can result in God being glorified. We are going to seek out Biblical aids in order to most effectively respond to temptation.
| august_11.m4a |
August 11, 2013
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 39:1-7
This morning as we journey through the life of Joseph we will again be asking the question, "why God?" The answer that we are going to determine from God's Word is not a direct answer but an answer that applies to every hardship we are ever going to face. Gives us the proper mindset for every hardship we are going to face. We will also determine how to react when we are at the point that we are asking this question.
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 39:1-7
This morning as we journey through the life of Joseph we will again be asking the question, "why God?" The answer that we are going to determine from God's Word is not a direct answer but an answer that applies to every hardship we are ever going to face. Gives us the proper mindset for every hardship we are going to face. We will also determine how to react when we are at the point that we are asking this question.
| july_14.m4a |
July 14, 2013
Why God? Lessons from the Life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 38
We have spent two weeks focusing on the life of Joseph as we have completed chapter 37. The next chapter seems to be an interruption to the account that is being given since there is no mention of Joseph at all. The fact is, though, that the information in this chapter is no interruption. In fact it is a display of the grace of God that will become so evident in Joseph's life in the future.
Why God? Lessons from the Life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 38
We have spent two weeks focusing on the life of Joseph as we have completed chapter 37. The next chapter seems to be an interruption to the account that is being given since there is no mention of Joseph at all. The fact is, though, that the information in this chapter is no interruption. In fact it is a display of the grace of God that will become so evident in Joseph's life in the future.
| july_7.m4a |
July 7, 2013
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 37:12-35
This morning we are going to talk about that awful feeling that you get in the pit of your stomach. Not a result of eating something old, not a result of being around your little cousins who had the flu - the sick feeling we are going to talk about has to do with guilt. We are continuing on with our series of , “Why God?” as we journey through the life of Joseph in the book of Genesis.
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 37:12-35
This morning we are going to talk about that awful feeling that you get in the pit of your stomach. Not a result of eating something old, not a result of being around your little cousins who had the flu - the sick feeling we are going to talk about has to do with guilt. We are continuing on with our series of , “Why God?” as we journey through the life of Joseph in the book of Genesis.
| june_30.m4a |
June 30, 2013
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 37:1-11
This morning we are beginning a new series. This series is focused around the person of Joseph in the book of Genesis. Each week we will strive to relate with Joseph in asking, "why God?" We will also uncover a challenge Joseph was faced with and we will seek out the Scriptures on how we can face that particular challenge ourselves. The challenge for this week is envy.
Why God? Lessons from the life of Joseph
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Genesis 37:1-11
This morning we are beginning a new series. This series is focused around the person of Joseph in the book of Genesis. Each week we will strive to relate with Joseph in asking, "why God?" We will also uncover a challenge Joseph was faced with and we will seek out the Scriptures on how we can face that particular challenge ourselves. The challenge for this week is envy.
| june_16.m4a |
June 16, 2013
Get ready to fight: take up the sword of the Spirit
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-17
For the last number of weeks we have been addressing the various parts of the armor of God listed in Ephesians 6. Each peace so far has focused on defending ourselves. This week the peace of armor that we will be focusing on is not only used for protecting ourselves but also for attacking the enemy. This last piece of armour listed by the Apostle Paul is the sword of the spirit.
Get ready to fight: take up the sword of the Spirit
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-17
For the last number of weeks we have been addressing the various parts of the armor of God listed in Ephesians 6. Each peace so far has focused on defending ourselves. This week the peace of armor that we will be focusing on is not only used for protecting ourselves but also for attacking the enemy. This last piece of armour listed by the Apostle Paul is the sword of the spirit.
| june_9.m4a |
June 9, 2013
Get ready to fight: put on the helmet of salvation
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-17
There is a direct link of our love for God and our salvation. Wearing the helmet of salvation connects that link. It does so as we use our minds and focus on the three different aspects of our salvation - past, present, and future. In doing so we protect ourselves against the attack of the enemy.
Get ready to fight: put on the helmet of salvation
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-17
There is a direct link of our love for God and our salvation. Wearing the helmet of salvation connects that link. It does so as we use our minds and focus on the three different aspects of our salvation - past, present, and future. In doing so we protect ourselves against the attack of the enemy.
| june_2.m4a |
June 2, 2013
Get ready to fight: take up the shield of faith
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-16
Paul presents dramatic picture a follower of Jesus Christ in a spiritual war. The enemy uses a form of a fiery dart to destroy the joy and satisfaction a believer has in God. Protect yourself! Paul instructs us regarding your mode of protection. You are to protect yourself with the shield of faith
Get ready to fight: take up the shield of faith
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-16
Paul presents dramatic picture a follower of Jesus Christ in a spiritual war. The enemy uses a form of a fiery dart to destroy the joy and satisfaction a believer has in God. Protect yourself! Paul instructs us regarding your mode of protection. You are to protect yourself with the shield of faith
| may_26.m4a |
May 26, 2013
Get ready to fight: take up the shield of faith
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-16
Today we are going to be continuing to put on the Christian armor that is identified in Ephesians chapter 6. We going to be talking about the gospel shoes of peace. Pursing a supernatural peace that God provides for those who trust Him, have a relationship with Him, who seek their strength in Him.
Get ready to fight: take up the shield of faith
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-16
Today we are going to be continuing to put on the Christian armor that is identified in Ephesians chapter 6. We going to be talking about the gospel shoes of peace. Pursing a supernatural peace that God provides for those who trust Him, have a relationship with Him, who seek their strength in Him.
| may_19.m4a |
May 19, 2013
Get ready to fight: put on the breastplate of righteousness
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-14
Last week, as our scripture passage dealt with spiritual warfare, we focused on the importance of wearing the belt of truth. This week we will draw our attention to another piece of armor, the breastplate of righteousness. An important piece of armor that protects a vital organ that enemy would love to rupture, the heart.
Get ready to fight: put on the breastplate of righteousness
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-14
Last week, as our scripture passage dealt with spiritual warfare, we focused on the importance of wearing the belt of truth. This week we will draw our attention to another piece of armor, the breastplate of righteousness. An important piece of armor that protects a vital organ that enemy would love to rupture, the heart.
| may_12.m4a |
May 12, 2013
Get ready to fight: put on the belt of truth
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-14
In our passage of Scripture today we are instructed to stand. The fact is there are many ways the enemy tries to knock us over. There are so many ways he tries to attack us and cause us to fall. I believe it is essential that we consider some of the attacks of the enemy as we get ready to fight. The fact is the better your understanding of the plans of attack of your enemy the better equipped you will be to stand.
Get ready to fight: put on the belt of truth
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Ephesians 6:10-14
In our passage of Scripture today we are instructed to stand. The fact is there are many ways the enemy tries to knock us over. There are so many ways he tries to attack us and cause us to fall. I believe it is essential that we consider some of the attacks of the enemy as we get ready to fight. The fact is the better your understanding of the plans of attack of your enemy the better equipped you will be to stand.
| may_5.m4a |
May 5, 2013
Get ready to fight
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 6:10-13
This morning we are going to uncover a troubling reality as we continue on our journey through Ephesians. The reality is that as a follower of Jesus Christ, someone who loves Jesus, there is in fact a plan, a strategy in place, in an attempt to destroy your testimony and rob you of your joy and satisfaction in God. That being the case you had better get ready to fight!
Get ready to fight
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 6:10-13
This morning we are going to uncover a troubling reality as we continue on our journey through Ephesians. The reality is that as a follower of Jesus Christ, someone who loves Jesus, there is in fact a plan, a strategy in place, in an attempt to destroy your testimony and rob you of your joy and satisfaction in God. That being the case you had better get ready to fight!
| april_21.m4a |
April 21, 2013
Adjust Your Focus
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Hebrews 4:12
Adjust Your Focus
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Hebrews 4:12
| april_14.m4a |
April 14, 2013
Answer the call: be wise in your work relationship
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 6:5-9
This morning, if you grasp what God’s Word has revealed for first time, you will gain a type of satisfaction in your life that you have never experienced before. This satisfaction has to do with an activity that potentially takes up a large part of your life - your job.
Answer the call: be wise in your work relationship
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 6:5-9
This morning, if you grasp what God’s Word has revealed for first time, you will gain a type of satisfaction in your life that you have never experienced before. This satisfaction has to do with an activity that potentially takes up a large part of your life - your job.
| april_7.m4a |
April 7, 2013
Answer the call: be wise in the parent/child relationship
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 6:1-4
What we have before us are instructions through which the parent and the child can please God, glorify God and experience His blessing upon their relationship as they do so.
Answer the call: be wise in the parent/child relationship
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 6:1-4
What we have before us are instructions through which the parent and the child can please God, glorify God and experience His blessing upon their relationship as they do so.
| resurrection_sunday.m4a |
Resurrection Sunday, 2013
Be Encouraged!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 20:1-18
I want to encourage you – I want you to be built you up this morning – I am going to do so by sharing a truth with you that is absolutely fundamental to the Christian faith. I want to share a truth with you that has absolutely transformed a number of people who are seated in front of me today – and if you have not been transformed by it – today would be a great day for that to happen. We are going to focus on the transformation truth of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Be Encouraged!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 20:1-18
I want to encourage you – I want you to be built you up this morning – I am going to do so by sharing a truth with you that is absolutely fundamental to the Christian faith. I want to share a truth with you that has absolutely transformed a number of people who are seated in front of me today – and if you have not been transformed by it – today would be a great day for that to happen. We are going to focus on the transformation truth of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
| good_friday_2013.m4a |
Good Friday Service, 2013
How can we call this day "Good Friday"?
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Matthew 26:36-46
How can we call this day "Good Friday"?
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Matthew 26:36-46
| march_24.m4a |
March 24, 2013
Answer the call: be wise in your marriage
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 5:22-33
God has a design for marriage that He has put in place that is still as relevant and beneficial as the day it was written down in His Word. This morning we are going to see how this design relates to both partners in the relationship.
Answer the call: be wise in your marriage
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 5:22-33
God has a design for marriage that He has put in place that is still as relevant and beneficial as the day it was written down in His Word. This morning we are going to see how this design relates to both partners in the relationship.
| march_14.m4a |
March 17, 2013
Answer the call: walk in wisdom
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 5:15-21
This morning we are going to focus on a walk that requires a great deal of attention. A walk that will take a follower of Jesus Christ farther in their Christian experience than they ever would of traveled otherwise. The walk we are going to focus on is a walk in wisdom.
Answer the call: walk in wisdom
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 5:15-21
This morning we are going to focus on a walk that requires a great deal of attention. A walk that will take a follower of Jesus Christ farther in their Christian experience than they ever would of traveled otherwise. The walk we are going to focus on is a walk in wisdom.
| march_10.m4a |
March 10, 2013
Answer the call: walk as children of the light!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 5:8-14
Entering into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ causes an individual to go from darkness into the light. What an amazing, wonderful, beautiful contrast that takes place. We are going to examine this contrast. In doing so we will see a call God has on your life. The call on your life is to not simply stay away from the darkness but to be moving forward revealing beauty, exposing the darkness as you walk in the light.
Answer the call: walk as children of the light!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 5:8-14
Entering into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ causes an individual to go from darkness into the light. What an amazing, wonderful, beautiful contrast that takes place. We are going to examine this contrast. In doing so we will see a call God has on your life. The call on your life is to not simply stay away from the darkness but to be moving forward revealing beauty, exposing the darkness as you walk in the light.
| march_3.m4a |
March 3, 2013
Answer the call: walk in love!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 5:1-7
This morning we are going to identify the first of three types of walks that Paul identifies. You are going to see what it looks like to walk in love as well as what it does not. Along the way we are going to come face to face with a reality check. A reality check that is disturbing and unnerving for some as they consider: Is this my future in black and white?
Answer the call: walk in love!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 5:1-7
This morning we are going to identify the first of three types of walks that Paul identifies. You are going to see what it looks like to walk in love as well as what it does not. Along the way we are going to come face to face with a reality check. A reality check that is disturbing and unnerving for some as they consider: Is this my future in black and white?
| feb.24.m4a |
February 24, 2013:
Answer the call: reveal the new you!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4:28-32
When a person becomes a follower of Jesus Christ there is a spiritual transformation. A transformation that affects our desires, our emotions, and our actions. This transformation involves our old way of life being put behind us and our new life in Christ going forward. It is a spiritual transformation that is to be evident to the people around us. You become a new you! When people meet you there is a revealing of the new you. A revealing that should cause them to question with intrigue - what happened? This morning we are going to focus on two more aspects of that change that should cause people to question - what happened?
Answer the call: reveal the new you!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4:28-32
When a person becomes a follower of Jesus Christ there is a spiritual transformation. A transformation that affects our desires, our emotions, and our actions. This transformation involves our old way of life being put behind us and our new life in Christ going forward. It is a spiritual transformation that is to be evident to the people around us. You become a new you! When people meet you there is a revealing of the new you. A revealing that should cause them to question with intrigue - what happened? This morning we are going to focus on two more aspects of that change that should cause people to question - what happened?
| feb.17.m4a |
February 17, 2013:
Answer the call: reveal the new you!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4: 26-27
When a person becomes a follower of Jesus Christ there is a spiritual transformation. A transformation that affects our desires, our emotions, and our actions. This transformation involves our old way of life being put behind us and our new life in Christ going forward. It is a spiritual transformation that is to be evident to the people around us. You become a new you! When people meet you there is a revealing of the new you. A revealing that should cause them to question with intrigue - what happened? This morning we are going to focus on one aspect of that change as the believer is to "be angry and do not sin".
Answer the call: reveal the new you!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4: 26-27
When a person becomes a follower of Jesus Christ there is a spiritual transformation. A transformation that affects our desires, our emotions, and our actions. This transformation involves our old way of life being put behind us and our new life in Christ going forward. It is a spiritual transformation that is to be evident to the people around us. You become a new you! When people meet you there is a revealing of the new you. A revealing that should cause them to question with intrigue - what happened? This morning we are going to focus on one aspect of that change as the believer is to "be angry and do not sin".
| feb.3_2012m4a.m4a |
February 3, 2013:
Answer the call: reveal the new you!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4: 25
When a person becomes a follower of Jesus Christ there is a spiritual transformation. A transformation that effects our desires, our emotions, and our actions. This transformation involves our old way of life being put behind us and our new life in Christ going forward. It is a spiritual transformation that is to be evident to the people around us. You become a new you! When people meet you there is a revealing of the new you. A revealing that should cause them to question with intrigue - what happened? This morning we are going to focus on one aspect of that change as the believer is to "put away lying and speak truth".
Answer the call: reveal the new you!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4: 25
When a person becomes a follower of Jesus Christ there is a spiritual transformation. A transformation that effects our desires, our emotions, and our actions. This transformation involves our old way of life being put behind us and our new life in Christ going forward. It is a spiritual transformation that is to be evident to the people around us. You become a new you! When people meet you there is a revealing of the new you. A revealing that should cause them to question with intrigue - what happened? This morning we are going to focus on one aspect of that change as the believer is to "put away lying and speak truth".
| jan.27.m4a |
January 27, 2013
Answer the call: don't do what they do!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4:17-24
This morning in Ephesians 4:17-24 we are going to witness a walk that goes from bad to worse. A walk in which their is a stench that gets more and more putrid over time. We will witness a walk in which the Apostle Paul warns us, "don't do what they do!"
Answer the call: don't do what they do!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4:17-24
This morning in Ephesians 4:17-24 we are going to witness a walk that goes from bad to worse. A walk in which their is a stench that gets more and more putrid over time. We will witness a walk in which the Apostle Paul warns us, "don't do what they do!"
| jan.20.m4a |
January 20, 2013
Answer the call: be equipped and edified!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4: 7-16
God has a call on your life to be equipped and edified. Through unpacking the passage before us today, we are going to determine by what means God has set forth in order for you to follow through with your calling.
Answer the call: be equipped and edified!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4: 7-16
God has a call on your life to be equipped and edified. Through unpacking the passage before us today, we are going to determine by what means God has set forth in order for you to follow through with your calling.
| jan.13.m4a |
January 13, 2013
Answer the call: strive for unity!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4:1-6
In the first three chapters of Ephesians the Apostle Paul has outlined spiritual blessings that our minds cannot fathom. He has told us of our spiritual identity in Christ and the fact that we have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. In knowing this God should have your attention. He wants you to answer a call that he has put upon your life. That call is to strive for unity and He unfolds how this is to be done in the first six verses of chapter 4.
Answer the call: strive for unity!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 4:1-6
In the first three chapters of Ephesians the Apostle Paul has outlined spiritual blessings that our minds cannot fathom. He has told us of our spiritual identity in Christ and the fact that we have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. In knowing this God should have your attention. He wants you to answer a call that he has put upon your life. That call is to strive for unity and He unfolds how this is to be done in the first six verses of chapter 4.
December 23, 2012:
"Are We There Yet?"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
We all anticipate Christmas - we want to get there! We want to arrive at our destination. Thankfully we only have two days to go and then we have arrived. This morning, I want to take you back in time and witness a number of accounts that spoke with anticipation of this amazing event. We are going to go to a point in time that was pre-Christmas. A time when the Saviour, the Messiah, God in the flesh is coming but He hasn't arrived yet.
"Are We There Yet?"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
We all anticipate Christmas - we want to get there! We want to arrive at our destination. Thankfully we only have two days to go and then we have arrived. This morning, I want to take you back in time and witness a number of accounts that spoke with anticipation of this amazing event. We are going to go to a point in time that was pre-Christmas. A time when the Saviour, the Messiah, God in the flesh is coming but He hasn't arrived yet.
| dec.16_2012.m4a |
December 16, 2112:
Viewing the Christmas Story with an Angelic Perspective
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Luke 1:26-38
This morning I want to shake up a part of the Christmas story that you're probably familiar with. I want to give you a different perspective of the angel Gabriel's visit to Mary. Let's look at this story from a different angle - from an angelic perspective.
Viewing the Christmas Story with an Angelic Perspective
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Luke 1:26-38
This morning I want to shake up a part of the Christmas story that you're probably familiar with. I want to give you a different perspective of the angel Gabriel's visit to Mary. Let's look at this story from a different angle - from an angelic perspective.
| dec.9_2012.m4a |
December 9, 2012:
"Solving Your Identity Crisis...pursuing an internal renovation" (Part II)
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 3:17b-21
We will be continuing on with the renovation project that Paul laid out in his prayer. Last week, we covered the first two of a four step process. This week we will work towards being as Paul prays, "filled with all the fullness of God." It is a renovation process that is certainly worth the effort.
"Solving Your Identity Crisis...pursuing an internal renovation" (Part II)
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 3:17b-21
We will be continuing on with the renovation project that Paul laid out in his prayer. Last week, we covered the first two of a four step process. This week we will work towards being as Paul prays, "filled with all the fullness of God." It is a renovation process that is certainly worth the effort.
| dec.2_2012.m4a |
December 2, 2012:
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...pursuing an internal renovation"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 3:14-17a
This morning we are going to be embarking on a renovation project. The passage we are covering is ultimately a prayer by the apostle Paul having to do with a renovation project. If you are a follower of Jesus Christ his prayer has to do with you.
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...pursuing an internal renovation"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 3:14-17a
This morning we are going to be embarking on a renovation project. The passage we are covering is ultimately a prayer by the apostle Paul having to do with a renovation project. If you are a follower of Jesus Christ his prayer has to do with you.
| nov._25_-_2012.m4a |
November 25, 2012:
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...having the right perspective"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 3:11-13
"Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for you Gentiles". The first verse of chapter 3 of Ephesians sets the stage for a great lesson for us regarding perspective. Paul had to endure under very harsh circumstances but God gave him the right perspective that became an aid in getting past those circumstances. God desires for that same aid to be available to us as well. The first 13 verses will be a guide to us obtaining the right perspective regardless of the situations that we have to face.
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...having the right perspective"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 3:11-13
"Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for you Gentiles". The first verse of chapter 3 of Ephesians sets the stage for a great lesson for us regarding perspective. Paul had to endure under very harsh circumstances but God gave him the right perspective that became an aid in getting past those circumstances. God desires for that same aid to be available to us as well. The first 13 verses will be a guide to us obtaining the right perspective regardless of the situations that we have to face.
| nov.18_2012.m4a |
November 18, 2012:
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...embracing the present"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2:19-22
This passage begins by identifying our position as believers in the present. Paul has spent a lot of time emphasizing our present position in Christ. Paul doesn't, ultimately God doesn't, want us to miss out on the present - we have been delivered from our past and we should anticipate our future but we need to be sure we do not miss out on the present. We need to embrace the present.
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...embracing the present"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2:19-22
This passage begins by identifying our position as believers in the present. Paul has spent a lot of time emphasizing our present position in Christ. Paul doesn't, ultimately God doesn't, want us to miss out on the present - we have been delivered from our past and we should anticipate our future but we need to be sure we do not miss out on the present. We need to embrace the present.
| nov.11-2012.m4a |
November 11, 2012:
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...feel the weight!"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2: 14-18
Today we are going to focus on the means by which Jesus Christ caused two opposing, warring people groups together and became their peace. It is so easy to just read the words given in the passage we are going to be covering but in an attempt to feel the weight of what is before us we will first take a look at the background leading up to Christ becoming our peace. In doing so we will have a greater appreciation of the work accomplished through our glorious Saviour Jesus Christ.
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...feel the weight!"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2: 14-18
Today we are going to focus on the means by which Jesus Christ caused two opposing, warring people groups together and became their peace. It is so easy to just read the words given in the passage we are going to be covering but in an attempt to feel the weight of what is before us we will first take a look at the background leading up to Christ becoming our peace. In doing so we will have a greater appreciation of the work accomplished through our glorious Saviour Jesus Christ.
| nov.4_-_2012.m4a |
November 4, 2012:
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...don't forget to remember!"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2: 11-13
In the verses before us, Paul provides a means by which a Christ follower can grow in his or her passion for God. Paul challenges all followers of Jesus Christ to remember. Remember how hopeless your condition was when God intervened and saved you. Don't forget to remember how hopeless your situation was when God intervened and saved you.
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...don't forget to remember!"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2: 11-13
In the verses before us, Paul provides a means by which a Christ follower can grow in his or her passion for God. Paul challenges all followers of Jesus Christ to remember. Remember how hopeless your condition was when God intervened and saved you. Don't forget to remember how hopeless your situation was when God intervened and saved you.
| october_28_-_2012.m4a |
October 28, 2012:
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...through understanding your past, present, and future"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2: 1-10
When we completed last week, you were told we were going to look into your future when we next met. Today we are going to obtain direction on how you can best glorify God with your life in the future. God wants you to pursue a life of purpose and He has made it possible for you to do so.
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...through understanding your past, present, and future"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2: 1-10
When we completed last week, you were told we were going to look into your future when we next met. Today we are going to obtain direction on how you can best glorify God with your life in the future. God wants you to pursue a life of purpose and He has made it possible for you to do so.
| october_21_2012.m4a |
October 21, 2012:
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...through understaning your past, present, and future"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2: 1-10
In this passage before us, Paul helps you solve your identity crisis by helping you understand your past apart from Christ in contrast to your present and future with Christ. Today will be the second part of a three-part message from this passage. Last week's message painted a terrifying picture of our state apart from Christ based on the first three verses. Thankfully this week, verse 4 begins with "but God". With those words everything changes. We will examine these changes together and strive to determine what to do as a result.
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...through understaning your past, present, and future"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2: 1-10
In this passage before us, Paul helps you solve your identity crisis by helping you understand your past apart from Christ in contrast to your present and future with Christ. Today will be the second part of a three-part message from this passage. Last week's message painted a terrifying picture of our state apart from Christ based on the first three verses. Thankfully this week, verse 4 begins with "but God". With those words everything changes. We will examine these changes together and strive to determine what to do as a result.
| october_14_2012.m4a |
October 14, 2012:
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...through understanding your past, present, and future"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2: 1-10
In this passage before us, Paul helps you solve your identify crisis by helping you understand your past apart from Christ in contrast to your present and future with Christ. Today will be the first part of a three-part message from this passage. This morning will be covering the first three verses. These three verses present an extremely gloomy, troubling, scary picture. Thankfully, we have the first two words in verse 4 to follow, "but God".
"Solving Your Identity Crisis ...through understanding your past, present, and future"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 2: 1-10
In this passage before us, Paul helps you solve your identify crisis by helping you understand your past apart from Christ in contrast to your present and future with Christ. Today will be the first part of a three-part message from this passage. This morning will be covering the first three verses. These three verses present an extremely gloomy, troubling, scary picture. Thankfully, we have the first two words in verse 4 to follow, "but God".
| october_7_2012.m4a |
October 7, 2012: "Solving Your Identity Crisis ...through prayer"
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 1: 15-23
Imagine with me for a second - you are at the end of your life - the doctor tells you that you only have a short time left on this earth - as you look back on your life - what treasures are you going to realize/regret you never fully took advantage of? This morning, we are going to look at a number of treasures that could very well fall into that category. A couple of weks ago we took a look at spiritual truths/treasures that Paul made us aware of in the first 14 verses of this epistle. In doing so, Paul helped us understand who we are in Christ. This morning, Paul will continue to help us solve our identity crisis as Christians. He will do so through prayer.
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 1: 15-23
Imagine with me for a second - you are at the end of your life - the doctor tells you that you only have a short time left on this earth - as you look back on your life - what treasures are you going to realize/regret you never fully took advantage of? This morning, we are going to look at a number of treasures that could very well fall into that category. A couple of weks ago we took a look at spiritual truths/treasures that Paul made us aware of in the first 14 verses of this epistle. In doing so, Paul helped us understand who we are in Christ. This morning, Paul will continue to help us solve our identity crisis as Christians. He will do so through prayer.
| sept.30_2012.m4a |
September 30, 2012: Identifying the Offering of Isaiah 53
(John McKim)
Text: Isaiah 53
We welcome Joh McKim from Friends of Israel at Georgetown Baptist Church. John will identify both the Jewish and the Christian perspective of the offering given in Isaiah 53. He will then solidify the truth using the Word of God.
(John McKim)
Text: Isaiah 53
We welcome Joh McKim from Friends of Israel at Georgetown Baptist Church. John will identify both the Jewish and the Christian perspective of the offering given in Isaiah 53. He will then solidify the truth using the Word of God.
| sept_23_-_2012.m4a |
September 23, 2012: Solving Your Identity Crisis ...with blasts of spiritual truths!
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 1: 1-14
This morning we are starting a new series. This new series is called solving your identity crisis. When a person becomes a follower of Jesus Christ, he/she receives a new identity. This series will help believers better understand their identity in Christ. We begin our series by getting blasted with with spiritual truths in the first 14 verses of Ephesians, chapter one.
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Ephesians 1: 1-14
This morning we are starting a new series. This new series is called solving your identity crisis. When a person becomes a follower of Jesus Christ, he/she receives a new identity. This series will help believers better understand their identity in Christ. We begin our series by getting blasted with with spiritual truths in the first 14 verses of Ephesians, chapter one.
| sept_16-2012.m4a |
September 16, 2012: Ordinary Day Extraordinary Event: at the pool
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 5: 1-15
The pool is somewhere you go and expect to have fun. You do not typically expect anything extraordinary to happen. We are going to witness something extraordinary happen at the pool of Bethesda. We are going to witness among other things the beginning of a shift regarding the way the nation of Israel viewed Jesus. We are going to learn from the example of Jesus from our time at the pool. We are going to see Jesus doing what is right even when it is not popular.
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 5: 1-15
The pool is somewhere you go and expect to have fun. You do not typically expect anything extraordinary to happen. We are going to witness something extraordinary happen at the pool of Bethesda. We are going to witness among other things the beginning of a shift regarding the way the nation of Israel viewed Jesus. We are going to learn from the example of Jesus from our time at the pool. We are going to see Jesus doing what is right even when it is not popular.
| sept.9.m4a |
September 9, 2012: Ordinary Day Extraordinary Event: at the water cooler (Part 2)
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text John 4: 16-26
This morning's message will continue on from where we left off last week.
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text John 4: 16-26
This morning's message will continue on from where we left off last week.
| sept.2_msg.m4a |
September 2, 2012: Ordinary Day Extraordinary Event: at the water cooler
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 4: 1-14
There are two things that come to mind when we think of a water cooler. The first is water and the second is conversation. A water cooler is notorious for being the place where conversations take place. This morning we are going to witness a conversation between jesus Christ and a Samaritan woman. This took place at an ancient water cooler of sorts - it took place at a well. We will soon find out that this is no ordinary conversation. The topic discussed on this seemingly ordinary day could very well change your life.
(Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 4: 1-14
There are two things that come to mind when we think of a water cooler. The first is water and the second is conversation. A water cooler is notorious for being the place where conversations take place. This morning we are going to witness a conversation between jesus Christ and a Samaritan woman. This took place at an ancient water cooler of sorts - it took place at a well. We will soon find out that this is no ordinary conversation. The topic discussed on this seemingly ordinary day could very well change your life.
| august_26.m4a |
August 26, 2012: Ordinary Day Extraordinary Event: a night out (Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 3: 1-10
This morning we are going to meet a man called Nicodemus that went for a night out. He went to meet with Jesus and fulfill his agenda. Jesus had something else in mind. He presented a truth to Nicodemus that Nicodemus had a hard time comprehending. The truth was radical but it was a truth that Nicodemus had to grasp. He had to get it because said, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Is it a truth that you grasp? This morning we will explore the truth together.
Text: John 3: 1-10
This morning we are going to meet a man called Nicodemus that went for a night out. He went to meet with Jesus and fulfill his agenda. Jesus had something else in mind. He presented a truth to Nicodemus that Nicodemus had a hard time comprehending. The truth was radical but it was a truth that Nicodemus had to grasp. He had to get it because said, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Is it a truth that you grasp? This morning we will explore the truth together.
| august_19.m4a |
August 19, 2012: Ordinary Day Extraordinary Event: off to church (Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 2: 13-22
This morning we are going to take a look at an account where we find Jesus Christ expressing more righteous anger than in any other account of His ministry on earth. For Christ followers, He is our Lord, Saviour and Treasure and it is going to be revealed how we can offend Him in the very same way as described in the passage.
Text: John 2: 13-22
This morning we are going to take a look at an account where we find Jesus Christ expressing more righteous anger than in any other account of His ministry on earth. For Christ followers, He is our Lord, Saviour and Treasure and it is going to be revealed how we can offend Him in the very same way as described in the passage.
August 12, 2012: Ordinary Day Extraordinary Event: off to a wedding (Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 2: 1-12
A wedding is an event where we do not expect anything extraordinary to occur. This wasn't the case for a wedding that happened in Cana of Galilee a number of years ago. Jesus was present and wherever Jesus attends you can be guaranteed something extraordinary will take place. At this wedding we can learn from the example of a number of the people who were present and witnessed Jesus do the extraordinary.
We apologize... no audio available for this message.
Text: John 2: 1-12
A wedding is an event where we do not expect anything extraordinary to occur. This wasn't the case for a wedding that happened in Cana of Galilee a number of years ago. Jesus was present and wherever Jesus attends you can be guaranteed something extraordinary will take place. At this wedding we can learn from the example of a number of the people who were present and witnessed Jesus do the extraordinary.
We apologize... no audio available for this message.
| aug_5_msg.m4a |
August 5, 2012: Ordinary Day Extraordinary Event: out for a walk (Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 1: 35-42
Today we will be going on a walk with two ordinary individuals on a seemingly ordinary day. On this walk we will witness an extraordinary event. We will see a transformation take place as two men meet the Lamb of God. What we will see will not allow us to remain unchanged.
Text: John 1: 35-42
Today we will be going on a walk with two ordinary individuals on a seemingly ordinary day. On this walk we will witness an extraordinary event. We will see a transformation take place as two men meet the Lamb of God. What we will see will not allow us to remain unchanged.
| july_29.m4a |
July 29, 2012: Ordinary Day Extraordinary Event: down by the water (Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: John 1:6-13, 19-28
Amazing events happen in the most ordinary of places. Today we are going to learn from an event that happened in such a place - down by the water. We are going to encounter a man called John taking part in an extraordinary event. There are a number of lessons we can learn as we witness what is taking place down by the water that can change our lives as well as those around us.
Note: We apologize for the quality of this sound recording; we experienced technical difficulties during taping.
Text: John 1:6-13, 19-28
Amazing events happen in the most ordinary of places. Today we are going to learn from an event that happened in such a place - down by the water. We are going to encounter a man called John taking part in an extraordinary event. There are a number of lessons we can learn as we witness what is taking place down by the water that can change our lives as well as those around us.
Note: We apologize for the quality of this sound recording; we experienced technical difficulties during taping.
| july_22.mp3 |
July 22, 2012: "Embracing Sanctified Dissatisfaction" (Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Philippians 3: 7-14
Satisfaction is something we all seek. As Christ-followers we are to find our satisfaction in Christ. We should never be satisfied with how much of Him we have in our lives or how close we have come in our relationship with God. The more we have of God, the more we should be motivated to seek Him.
Text: Philippians 3: 7-14
Satisfaction is something we all seek. As Christ-followers we are to find our satisfaction in Christ. We should never be satisfied with how much of Him we have in our lives or how close we have come in our relationship with God. The more we have of God, the more we should be motivated to seek Him.
| july_15.mp3 |
July 15, 2012: "Jesus: Rock of Ages" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Text: 1 Corinthians 10:4, Psalm 61:2
Augustus Toplady was one day overtaken by a severe thunderstorm in a rocky glen running into the heart of the Mendip Hills, in the Southwest of England. There was no habitation anywhere near, and no place to which he could turn for shelter from the storm. Looking about him, he saw two massive pillars of rock, and took refuge there. Standing there in safety, he escaped the storm. Finding a piece of paper lying near, he picked it up and with his pencil wrote the famous familiar hymn, first published in 1775, "Rock of Ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in Thee". The beautiful words have blessed millions through the years. Much has been written in the Bible about God being rock-like.
In Psalm 61, verse 2, David wrote, "When my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I." In Psalm 94, verse 22, we read, "But the Lord has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge." Paul's words in I Corinthians 10:4 help us to realize that Jesus is, in fact our Rock, when He writes of those who lived in Old Testament times, "...they drank the same spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ." That is our subject today, as we learn that Christ is, indeed the Rock of Ages, and the All Sufficient One.
Text: 1 Corinthians 10:4, Psalm 61:2
Augustus Toplady was one day overtaken by a severe thunderstorm in a rocky glen running into the heart of the Mendip Hills, in the Southwest of England. There was no habitation anywhere near, and no place to which he could turn for shelter from the storm. Looking about him, he saw two massive pillars of rock, and took refuge there. Standing there in safety, he escaped the storm. Finding a piece of paper lying near, he picked it up and with his pencil wrote the famous familiar hymn, first published in 1775, "Rock of Ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in Thee". The beautiful words have blessed millions through the years. Much has been written in the Bible about God being rock-like.
In Psalm 61, verse 2, David wrote, "When my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I." In Psalm 94, verse 22, we read, "But the Lord has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge." Paul's words in I Corinthians 10:4 help us to realize that Jesus is, in fact our Rock, when He writes of those who lived in Old Testament times, "...they drank the same spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ." That is our subject today, as we learn that Christ is, indeed the Rock of Ages, and the All Sufficient One.
| july_8.mp3 |
July 8, 2012: "The God of Great Surprises" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Text: II Kings 6:24-33 & 7:1-20
The nation of Syria is much in the news these days, with the terrible crimes being perpetrated on the Syrian people by their leaders. Syria has long been a violent country and for decades has been known for its torture, imprisonment and dictatorial ways.
Many centuries ago, during the time of the Prophet Elisha, Ben Hadad King of Syria took his whole army and encircled Samaria with the intention of starving the Israelis, along with their King, completely out. Inside, the city, things were very bad. But in the midst of the terrible situation, God had a very big surprise. He had Elisha proclaim deliverance. Elisha announced that God had told him that tomorrow at the same hour he was speaking, food would be plentiful. That is where our story begins and with it there are many life-changing truths for our consideration and learning, as God reveals that He is indeed, the God of great surprises.
Text: II Kings 6:24-33 & 7:1-20
The nation of Syria is much in the news these days, with the terrible crimes being perpetrated on the Syrian people by their leaders. Syria has long been a violent country and for decades has been known for its torture, imprisonment and dictatorial ways.
Many centuries ago, during the time of the Prophet Elisha, Ben Hadad King of Syria took his whole army and encircled Samaria with the intention of starving the Israelis, along with their King, completely out. Inside, the city, things were very bad. But in the midst of the terrible situation, God had a very big surprise. He had Elisha proclaim deliverance. Elisha announced that God had told him that tomorrow at the same hour he was speaking, food would be plentiful. That is where our story begins and with it there are many life-changing truths for our consideration and learning, as God reveals that He is indeed, the God of great surprises.
| july_1.mp3 |
July 1, 2012: "Three Vital Steps for Every Believer" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Text: Romans 12:1-2
The Book of Romans has been called "The Masterpiece of the New Testament." It is a dynamic book and has so much packed into it to help us understand not only how to become a Christian, but also when we have become true believers, how to live the Christian life. This 12th chapter has to do with relationships. It teaches us that right relationships mean right living. Paul always taught that doctrine comes before duty, that behaviour is based on belief and we translate learning into living. Romans teaches us that if we have a right relationship with God, it will be usually possible (though not always - verse 18) to have a right relationship with the people who are a part of our lives. John the Apostle warned in I John 4:20, "If a man says, I love God, and hates his brother, he is a liar."
Romans 12 begins with " I beseech you therefore." Someone has pointed out that this is the fourth "therefore" in Romans. Previously Paul has been inspired to write of the "therefore" of condemnation (3:20), the "therefore" of justification (5:1) and the "therefore" of assurance (8:1) So now, with chapter 12:1, we have the "therefore" of dedication, when Paul writes, "I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service." In this verse and the one that follows then, we are given what we may call the three vital steps in every believers life. As we study the text this morning, we will find that true dedication involves the surrender of our bodies, our minds, and our wills. It is a fascinating study.
Text: Romans 12:1-2
The Book of Romans has been called "The Masterpiece of the New Testament." It is a dynamic book and has so much packed into it to help us understand not only how to become a Christian, but also when we have become true believers, how to live the Christian life. This 12th chapter has to do with relationships. It teaches us that right relationships mean right living. Paul always taught that doctrine comes before duty, that behaviour is based on belief and we translate learning into living. Romans teaches us that if we have a right relationship with God, it will be usually possible (though not always - verse 18) to have a right relationship with the people who are a part of our lives. John the Apostle warned in I John 4:20, "If a man says, I love God, and hates his brother, he is a liar."
Romans 12 begins with " I beseech you therefore." Someone has pointed out that this is the fourth "therefore" in Romans. Previously Paul has been inspired to write of the "therefore" of condemnation (3:20), the "therefore" of justification (5:1) and the "therefore" of assurance (8:1) So now, with chapter 12:1, we have the "therefore" of dedication, when Paul writes, "I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service." In this verse and the one that follows then, we are given what we may call the three vital steps in every believers life. As we study the text this morning, we will find that true dedication involves the surrender of our bodies, our minds, and our wills. It is a fascinating study.
| june_24.mp3 |
June 24, 2012: "Five Great Truths to Live By" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Text: 1 Corinthians 15: 50-58
"Always read the whole text before attempting to interpret what a passage of the Bible is teaching." Those words, or similar ones, are often heard from conservative evangelical Bible teachers seeking to make sure that students, or members of their congregations, really understand what God is saying in any particular part of His Word. To do otherwise can lead to confusion and erroneous teachings, and that can be destructive and harmful.
This truth is nowhere more applicable than when it comes to a well known and much loved text, such as I Corinthians 15:58. Many can quote it accurately. It says, "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." Admittedly, that is a beautiful text, filled with encouragement and promise. However, as in other instances, it is important for the serious student of the Bible to take the time to read what came before. When we do, we find clear, easy to understand information that explains and helps us to comprehend what God is saying to us through the Apostle Paul.
This morning, we will look back and see the basis and background for verse 58, and as we do, we will be blessed much more than merely reading verse 58 alone, as great as it is. In fact, we will learn that there are at least three great truths which aptly introduce the great truth of verse 58. That will be our emphasis this morning.
Text: 1 Corinthians 15: 50-58
"Always read the whole text before attempting to interpret what a passage of the Bible is teaching." Those words, or similar ones, are often heard from conservative evangelical Bible teachers seeking to make sure that students, or members of their congregations, really understand what God is saying in any particular part of His Word. To do otherwise can lead to confusion and erroneous teachings, and that can be destructive and harmful.
This truth is nowhere more applicable than when it comes to a well known and much loved text, such as I Corinthians 15:58. Many can quote it accurately. It says, "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." Admittedly, that is a beautiful text, filled with encouragement and promise. However, as in other instances, it is important for the serious student of the Bible to take the time to read what came before. When we do, we find clear, easy to understand information that explains and helps us to comprehend what God is saying to us through the Apostle Paul.
This morning, we will look back and see the basis and background for verse 58, and as we do, we will be blessed much more than merely reading verse 58 alone, as great as it is. In fact, we will learn that there are at least three great truths which aptly introduce the great truth of verse 58. That will be our emphasis this morning.
June 17, 2012: "Honouring Our Fathers!" (Pastor Wallace Jorden)
Text: Luke 15:11-32
Note: Unfortunately, an audio version of today's message is not available. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Jesus used the idea of an earthly father to teach about God. He said, "If you, then being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!" (Matt 7:11) Godis known best as a loving Father and generous Parent.
Jesus' famous Parable of the Prodigal Son is all about God's love for sinners and saints alike! It reveals God as a loving, forgiving and reconciling father. Some of us can identify with the restlessness and selfishness of the younger son; while others feel more akin with the loyalty and selflessness of the older son. Many of us have come to our true selves and know the joy of a newfound grace and faith in our heavenly Father.
This salvation parable is primarily about a father’s love for his two sons. This father loved both unconditionally. He loved the younger son, even when he was selfish and presumed upon his father’s generosity: he loved the older son, even when he showed resentment toward his father and anger toward his brother.
Within the parable, Jesus presents several sets of words for building healthy and lasting relationships with our children and grandchildren--"You are free;" "I love you;" "All is forgiven;" and "I enjoy you!" Our relationships within the family are to be treasured above all else and that goes for the honoring of our parents.
So, on this Father’s Day, lets think about our fathers and give honor to them. Pray for your new pastor and young father as he comes to serve God’s family, the Church. Give him due honor and full support! Above all, be grateful to your heavenly Father from whom all blessings flow.
Text: Luke 15:11-32
Note: Unfortunately, an audio version of today's message is not available. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Jesus used the idea of an earthly father to teach about God. He said, "If you, then being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!" (Matt 7:11) Godis known best as a loving Father and generous Parent.
Jesus' famous Parable of the Prodigal Son is all about God's love for sinners and saints alike! It reveals God as a loving, forgiving and reconciling father. Some of us can identify with the restlessness and selfishness of the younger son; while others feel more akin with the loyalty and selflessness of the older son. Many of us have come to our true selves and know the joy of a newfound grace and faith in our heavenly Father.
This salvation parable is primarily about a father’s love for his two sons. This father loved both unconditionally. He loved the younger son, even when he was selfish and presumed upon his father’s generosity: he loved the older son, even when he showed resentment toward his father and anger toward his brother.
Within the parable, Jesus presents several sets of words for building healthy and lasting relationships with our children and grandchildren--"You are free;" "I love you;" "All is forgiven;" and "I enjoy you!" Our relationships within the family are to be treasured above all else and that goes for the honoring of our parents.
So, on this Father’s Day, lets think about our fathers and give honor to them. Pray for your new pastor and young father as he comes to serve God’s family, the Church. Give him due honor and full support! Above all, be grateful to your heavenly Father from whom all blessings flow.
June 10: 2012: "Receiving the Little Child Within our Midst!" (Pastor Wallace Jorden)
Text: Matthew 18: 1-14
Note: Unfortunately, an audio version of today's message is not available. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Jesus loves little children and he loves the child in us. In fact, the inner child is the most authentic part of us. Spiritual maturity can be measured in terms of childlikeness or childishness. If we have a healthy child within, we will find it easier to trust and accept life’s gifts from God. It’s the child within us that draws us to Jesus: “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them, or of such is the kingdom of God.” (Mark 10: 14) It’s the child within us that commends us to Jesus: “Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives Him who sent Me.”(Mark 9: 37) In God’s sight, children are precious and need to be received and nurtured by the Church in an atmosphere of warmth and security.
The Bible refers to our spiritual relationship with God in terms of Father and child. We are children of God when we are born of God, the Father, by the Holy Spirit, the Obstetrician, through faith in Jesus Christ, the Only Saviour. (John 1: 12-13) We can then exclaim with John: “Beloved, now we are the children of God…” (1 John 3: 2) We are to love and serve Jesus with the child in mind.
Jesus placed children on a high priority list for His disciples then and now. He rebuked His first disciples for treating children poorly or neglecting them altogether. Jesus said: “Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10) What would Jesus need to say to the Church today? Are there children in the community who feel unloved and unwanted by the Church. Ministries to children and youth need to be well planned, promoted and presented by loving and kind adults in the context of a warm and safe
environment. This is no mean task, given the fact that some children in the community already feel neglected and afraid. My prayer is that we will join the heavenly Father in blessing all His children whom He sends to the Church this summer, so that when Pastor Gary begins his fall ministry, he will have sufficient children and youth to begin new children's and youth ministries that will encourage their parents to come as well and see that the Lord is good and greatly to be praised!
Text: Matthew 18: 1-14
Note: Unfortunately, an audio version of today's message is not available. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Jesus loves little children and he loves the child in us. In fact, the inner child is the most authentic part of us. Spiritual maturity can be measured in terms of childlikeness or childishness. If we have a healthy child within, we will find it easier to trust and accept life’s gifts from God. It’s the child within us that draws us to Jesus: “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them, or of such is the kingdom of God.” (Mark 10: 14) It’s the child within us that commends us to Jesus: “Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives Him who sent Me.”(Mark 9: 37) In God’s sight, children are precious and need to be received and nurtured by the Church in an atmosphere of warmth and security.
The Bible refers to our spiritual relationship with God in terms of Father and child. We are children of God when we are born of God, the Father, by the Holy Spirit, the Obstetrician, through faith in Jesus Christ, the Only Saviour. (John 1: 12-13) We can then exclaim with John: “Beloved, now we are the children of God…” (1 John 3: 2) We are to love and serve Jesus with the child in mind.
Jesus placed children on a high priority list for His disciples then and now. He rebuked His first disciples for treating children poorly or neglecting them altogether. Jesus said: “Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10) What would Jesus need to say to the Church today? Are there children in the community who feel unloved and unwanted by the Church. Ministries to children and youth need to be well planned, promoted and presented by loving and kind adults in the context of a warm and safe
environment. This is no mean task, given the fact that some children in the community already feel neglected and afraid. My prayer is that we will join the heavenly Father in blessing all His children whom He sends to the Church this summer, so that when Pastor Gary begins his fall ministry, he will have sufficient children and youth to begin new children's and youth ministries that will encourage their parents to come as well and see that the Lord is good and greatly to be praised!
| june_3.mp3 |
June 3, 2012: "Five Loaves and Two Fish Still Feeding Us Today!" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Texts: Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:31-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:5-15
Note: Second of Two-Part Series
Last Sunday, in the first of this two part series on the feeding of the 5,000, I reminded you that this is the only miracle which Christ performed that is recorded in all four gospels, with the exception of the miracle of Jesus’ own resurrection. Because of this, God is signalling that He wants our attention. He has something very important to say to us. What is it that He is saying?
This morning, as we look again into this amazing story of how Jesus took just a small lunch, provided by a boy, and turned it into enough food to feed 5,000 men, besides women and children. I have read each telling of it, in the four gospels, several times to find out just what it is that Jesus wants us to see and understand, and then how to respond. The four gospels reveal the compassion of Christ for lost multitudes. They tell us that at times, Jesus tests His children, as he did Philip by posing rhetorical questions. He does this even though He knows exactly how to solve a problem and exactly what He is going to do. We also learn that though Jesus could have distributed the food Himself, He did not do that, but had His disciples do it. He was teaching them, and us that He is the producer, the provider, we are the distributors. And we also see that even though what we have may seem small, as with the boy's small lunch, if we put it into God's hands, good things happen.
These are some of the wonderful truths and lessons that we will see this morning, as each gospel teaches us something about the Lord Jesus. And we will see that with this miraculous feeding these thousand of people as a giant backdrop, Jesus then announced that He is the Bread of Life. That's our thrilling subject this morning.
Texts: Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:31-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:5-15
Note: Second of Two-Part Series
Last Sunday, in the first of this two part series on the feeding of the 5,000, I reminded you that this is the only miracle which Christ performed that is recorded in all four gospels, with the exception of the miracle of Jesus’ own resurrection. Because of this, God is signalling that He wants our attention. He has something very important to say to us. What is it that He is saying?
This morning, as we look again into this amazing story of how Jesus took just a small lunch, provided by a boy, and turned it into enough food to feed 5,000 men, besides women and children. I have read each telling of it, in the four gospels, several times to find out just what it is that Jesus wants us to see and understand, and then how to respond. The four gospels reveal the compassion of Christ for lost multitudes. They tell us that at times, Jesus tests His children, as he did Philip by posing rhetorical questions. He does this even though He knows exactly how to solve a problem and exactly what He is going to do. We also learn that though Jesus could have distributed the food Himself, He did not do that, but had His disciples do it. He was teaching them, and us that He is the producer, the provider, we are the distributors. And we also see that even though what we have may seem small, as with the boy's small lunch, if we put it into God's hands, good things happen.
These are some of the wonderful truths and lessons that we will see this morning, as each gospel teaches us something about the Lord Jesus. And we will see that with this miraculous feeding these thousand of people as a giant backdrop, Jesus then announced that He is the Bread of Life. That's our thrilling subject this morning.
| may_27.mp3 |
May 27, 2012: "Five Loaves and Two Fish Feed Thousands!" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Texts: Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:31-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:5-15
Note: First of Two-Part Series
John the Baptist had just been murdered by order of Herod. Jesus went to a remote place near Bethsaida, northeast of the Sea of Galilee. But large crowds followed him. He felt compassion on them and healed many of their sick.
When evening came, His disciples suggested that Jesus send the crowd away so they could purchase food. But Jesus, as He often did, surprised them and told them that the people did not need to go anywhere. He then told His disciples to feed them. No doubt astonished, they said they only had five loaves and two fish. Jesus ordered the multitude to sit down on the grass, and had the blessing over the small amount of food. Then He gave the food to the disciples and the disciples, perhaps, in shock, distributed the food to the crowd.
Not only was there enough to go around, but they had twelve baskets left over. The lessons to be learned are numerous, and we will deal with them today and next Sunday.
Texts: Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:31-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:5-15
Note: First of Two-Part Series
John the Baptist had just been murdered by order of Herod. Jesus went to a remote place near Bethsaida, northeast of the Sea of Galilee. But large crowds followed him. He felt compassion on them and healed many of their sick.
When evening came, His disciples suggested that Jesus send the crowd away so they could purchase food. But Jesus, as He often did, surprised them and told them that the people did not need to go anywhere. He then told His disciples to feed them. No doubt astonished, they said they only had five loaves and two fish. Jesus ordered the multitude to sit down on the grass, and had the blessing over the small amount of food. Then He gave the food to the disciples and the disciples, perhaps, in shock, distributed the food to the crowd.
Not only was there enough to go around, but they had twelve baskets left over. The lessons to be learned are numerous, and we will deal with them today and next Sunday.
| may_20.mp3 |
May 20, 2012: "Trumpets, Pitchers and Lamps" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Text: Judges 7: 1-21
Here is surely one of the most fascinating stories in all the bible. Though not quite as well known as that of David and Goliath, it yet has as strong and inviting a message. Like David’s encounter with Goliath, this story pits the underdog against the champions. But it is more than just a true story. It is one with many important principles of life and vital lessons for us in this day and age. As we go there this morning, back to a place called the valley of Jezreel, we will learn about God preparing His servants, the importance of faith in the Lord when we serve, the kind of people God uses, and a present day application of the trumpets, pitchers and lamps in
our daily living.
Text: Judges 7: 1-21
Here is surely one of the most fascinating stories in all the bible. Though not quite as well known as that of David and Goliath, it yet has as strong and inviting a message. Like David’s encounter with Goliath, this story pits the underdog against the champions. But it is more than just a true story. It is one with many important principles of life and vital lessons for us in this day and age. As we go there this morning, back to a place called the valley of Jezreel, we will learn about God preparing His servants, the importance of faith in the Lord when we serve, the kind of people God uses, and a present day application of the trumpets, pitchers and lamps in
our daily living.
| may_13.mp3 |
May 13, 2012: "A Mother's Secret" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Text: Proverbs 31:30
Jesus spoke seven times while He was upon the cross. The third time He spoke to His mother and to John, the beloved disciple. As the mob jeered, the soldiers gambled and the religious leaders rejoiced, Jesus looked down and saw His mother standing near the cross. By her side was the disciple John. Jesus then lifted His voice and said to His mother, "Woman, look at John. From now on He will be your son." Then He spoke to John, "John, from now on she is to be your mother." And from that time on, John took Mary to his own home and Jesus had arranged for His mother's future. By this act, our Lord was revealing something that is clearly emphasized throughout the Bible - the importance of mothers, and our responsibilities to honour them.
Text: Proverbs 31:30
Jesus spoke seven times while He was upon the cross. The third time He spoke to His mother and to John, the beloved disciple. As the mob jeered, the soldiers gambled and the religious leaders rejoiced, Jesus looked down and saw His mother standing near the cross. By her side was the disciple John. Jesus then lifted His voice and said to His mother, "Woman, look at John. From now on He will be your son." Then He spoke to John, "John, from now on she is to be your mother." And from that time on, John took Mary to his own home and Jesus had arranged for His mother's future. By this act, our Lord was revealing something that is clearly emphasized throughout the Bible - the importance of mothers, and our responsibilities to honour them.
| may_6.mp3 |
May 6, 2012: "Noah's Message For Today" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Texts: Matthew 24: 36-39; Genesis 6: 1-22; Genesis 6:16; Genesis 8:1
Many years ago, there was a good man who loved God and lived to please Him. His wife also was a God-fearing woman. They faithfully brought up three fine boys to live for God. Because of their parents' training and prayers, each boy married a good woman who also feared God. Godless people surrounded them. The father was greatly distressed about the sins of the people.
All around him violence broke out. Murder was common. Families fought against families. One day God spoke to the man and told him He would give the people more time to repent. The man of God began to warn his neighbours. He tried to tell them of the coming judgement. They laughed at him. They thought he was old fashioned. They scoffed and jeered. The man of God preached wherever he could. But he did not find anyone who would believe him, except his own family.
Then one day, God spoke to this man again. He told him He was going to destroy all men. His patience had worn out. Then He told that man to build an ark. Much later, Jesus wrote of this man and said that just as it had been in this man's day, so it would be when the Son of Man returns to earth. That man was Noah. In today's message, we learn many lessons from his life.
Texts: Matthew 24: 36-39; Genesis 6: 1-22; Genesis 6:16; Genesis 8:1
Many years ago, there was a good man who loved God and lived to please Him. His wife also was a God-fearing woman. They faithfully brought up three fine boys to live for God. Because of their parents' training and prayers, each boy married a good woman who also feared God. Godless people surrounded them. The father was greatly distressed about the sins of the people.
All around him violence broke out. Murder was common. Families fought against families. One day God spoke to the man and told him He would give the people more time to repent. The man of God began to warn his neighbours. He tried to tell them of the coming judgement. They laughed at him. They thought he was old fashioned. They scoffed and jeered. The man of God preached wherever he could. But he did not find anyone who would believe him, except his own family.
Then one day, God spoke to this man again. He told him He was going to destroy all men. His patience had worn out. Then He told that man to build an ark. Much later, Jesus wrote of this man and said that just as it had been in this man's day, so it would be when the Son of Man returns to earth. That man was Noah. In today's message, we learn many lessons from his life.
| april_29.mp3 |
April 29, 2012: "Baptism: An Outward Expression of an Inward Experience"
(Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Texts: Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38 & 41; Acts 8: 35-38
Baptism by immersion is an act of obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ, the great Head of the church. He instituted it (Matthew 28:19). He commanded that all His people submit to it. It was to follow their conversion, not to precede it. Our Lord has never rescinded this command; and it is still in force today, as when it was first given. To follow Him in obedience in baptism by immersion means that two things will be accomplished. First, we will by the symbol of baptism adequately and properly portray to the world that we have been buried with Christ, and that we have been raised with Christ to a new life. Secondly, since complying with this command pleases the One who gave it, He in turn is certain to bless us. Today, before the first baptism in the newly installed baptistery, Pastor Alex looks into God's Word to see what God has to say about this important event.
(Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Texts: Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38 & 41; Acts 8: 35-38
Baptism by immersion is an act of obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ, the great Head of the church. He instituted it (Matthew 28:19). He commanded that all His people submit to it. It was to follow their conversion, not to precede it. Our Lord has never rescinded this command; and it is still in force today, as when it was first given. To follow Him in obedience in baptism by immersion means that two things will be accomplished. First, we will by the symbol of baptism adequately and properly portray to the world that we have been buried with Christ, and that we have been raised with Christ to a new life. Secondly, since complying with this command pleases the One who gave it, He in turn is certain to bless us. Today, before the first baptism in the newly installed baptistery, Pastor Alex looks into God's Word to see what God has to say about this important event.
| loving_father.mp3 |
April 22, 2012: "The Parable of the Loving Father" Luke 15:11-24 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
In the 15th chapter of Luke, Jesus described a man who has been called the Prodigal Son. It is significant because it traces the history of sin, with the experience of the sinner given clearly. In this message, Pastor Alex takes a close look at this individual, the younger son. The sad story of his straying away from a loving father and home is told graphically, until he came to the end of his rope. But then, in dramatic fashion, we are treated to the big U-turn in his life when he "came to himself" and returned to the loving arms of his father. As we watch this amazing change of life, we see at least seven disappointing downward steps, followed by the intervention of God in his life as he begins the seven upward steps. As we are privileged to witness this amazing spectacle, we will no doubt, in many cases see a parallel between the experience of this young man and ourselves.
In the 15th chapter of Luke, Jesus described a man who has been called the Prodigal Son. It is significant because it traces the history of sin, with the experience of the sinner given clearly. In this message, Pastor Alex takes a close look at this individual, the younger son. The sad story of his straying away from a loving father and home is told graphically, until he came to the end of his rope. But then, in dramatic fashion, we are treated to the big U-turn in his life when he "came to himself" and returned to the loving arms of his father. As we watch this amazing change of life, we see at least seven disappointing downward steps, followed by the intervention of God in his life as he begins the seven upward steps. As we are privileged to witness this amazing spectacle, we will no doubt, in many cases see a parallel between the experience of this young man and ourselves.
| april_15.mp3 |
April 15, 2012: "The Million Dollar Question" (Pastor Gary Harris)
Text: Matthew 16: 13 - 19
Almost 2000 years ago, Jesus presented his disciples with the most important question of their lives. Peter rang in and gave the right answer. Through His Word, Jesus presents the same question to you today, "Who do you say that I am?" How will you respond?
Note: The Pastoral Search Committee, on behalf of the members of Georgetown Baptist Church, invited Rev. Gary Harris of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and formerly from Murray Harbour, PEI, to speak on this day as a candidate for the position of full-time pastor of Georgetown Baptist.
Text: Matthew 16: 13 - 19
Almost 2000 years ago, Jesus presented his disciples with the most important question of their lives. Peter rang in and gave the right answer. Through His Word, Jesus presents the same question to you today, "Who do you say that I am?" How will you respond?
Note: The Pastoral Search Committee, on behalf of the members of Georgetown Baptist Church, invited Rev. Gary Harris of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and formerly from Murray Harbour, PEI, to speak on this day as a candidate for the position of full-time pastor of Georgetown Baptist.
| april_8.mp3 |
April 8, 2012: "Christ's Resurrection: It's Prominence, Proof and Power"
(Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Text: 1 Corinthians 15: 1 - 20
Christianity is founded on the empty tomb. The vacated tomb alone vindicates the church's existence. Christianity stakes all on the truth that the Lord Jesus really did rise from the grave on the third day.
The resurrection of Christ is essential to Christianity. For by it alone can Christianity be confirmed. Take away the resurrection of Christ, and Christianity becomes a dead letter, just another of the world's religions. It is the essential of the essentials of the Christian faith. It is not only the most important fact in history, it is also the best attested fact in history. Those who glibly deny the bodily resurrection of Christ have never honestly faced the evidence which supports this, the mighty foundation stone of the Gospel. This morning we will look into this wonderful subject and consider and learn why it is so prominent in the Gospel. We will see the incredible proofs of its authenticity, through the Bible, through personal experience and by outside evidence.
(Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Text: 1 Corinthians 15: 1 - 20
Christianity is founded on the empty tomb. The vacated tomb alone vindicates the church's existence. Christianity stakes all on the truth that the Lord Jesus really did rise from the grave on the third day.
The resurrection of Christ is essential to Christianity. For by it alone can Christianity be confirmed. Take away the resurrection of Christ, and Christianity becomes a dead letter, just another of the world's religions. It is the essential of the essentials of the Christian faith. It is not only the most important fact in history, it is also the best attested fact in history. Those who glibly deny the bodily resurrection of Christ have never honestly faced the evidence which supports this, the mighty foundation stone of the Gospel. This morning we will look into this wonderful subject and consider and learn why it is so prominent in the Gospel. We will see the incredible proofs of its authenticity, through the Bible, through personal experience and by outside evidence.
| april_1.mp3 |
April 1, 2012: "Hosanna to the King" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Text: Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, John 12
On that first Palm Sunday when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, it was for a very special reason. He knew that His earthly ministry was coming to a close. Previously much of His ministry was kept a secret. Now all would change and every eye must be fixed on Him. The crowning act of His life must take place where and when all the world could know about it.
In Matthew 21, we see the events which took place just a week before He would die. But before He gives His life, He will now present Himself formally and officially to the people of Israel as their Messiah and King. Here we see His presentation, in what has been called His triumphal entry as the King.
Jesus was now moving toward Jerusalem, but stopped at the village of Bethage, from where He sent two of His disciples into the village with instructions to get an ass and her colt. On that donkey, Jesus rode into Jerusalem. As He went, great crowds went ahead and behind Him. Some spread their garments, other laid palm branches before Him. They cried out "Hosanna to the Son of David. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord" The city was moved deeply. One group, not knowing who this was, asked "Who is this?" Others in the crowd responded "This is Jesus, the Prophet from Nazareth of Galilee." That's our subject this morning as we learn much more about Him and the true meaning of that first Palm Sunday.
Text: Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, John 12
On that first Palm Sunday when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, it was for a very special reason. He knew that His earthly ministry was coming to a close. Previously much of His ministry was kept a secret. Now all would change and every eye must be fixed on Him. The crowning act of His life must take place where and when all the world could know about it.
In Matthew 21, we see the events which took place just a week before He would die. But before He gives His life, He will now present Himself formally and officially to the people of Israel as their Messiah and King. Here we see His presentation, in what has been called His triumphal entry as the King.
Jesus was now moving toward Jerusalem, but stopped at the village of Bethage, from where He sent two of His disciples into the village with instructions to get an ass and her colt. On that donkey, Jesus rode into Jerusalem. As He went, great crowds went ahead and behind Him. Some spread their garments, other laid palm branches before Him. They cried out "Hosanna to the Son of David. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord" The city was moved deeply. One group, not knowing who this was, asked "Who is this?" Others in the crowd responded "This is Jesus, the Prophet from Nazareth of Galilee." That's our subject this morning as we learn much more about Him and the true meaning of that first Palm Sunday.
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March 25, 2012: "Watching Jesus Die" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Text: Matthew 27:36
"They cried, saying crucify Him, crucify Him." Luke 23:21
"They took Jesus and led Him away. And He, bearing His cross went forth into a place called the skull...Where they crucified Him." John 19:16-18
These verses from the Bible take us once again to the very place where one of the most incredible, brutal scenes of all time took place. There on Golgotha's hill, the creature gleefully murdered the Creator, the One who had come only to do man good. They rejected their Redeemer, forsook their forgiver, silenced their Saviour. Who was there that day? Have you ever considered that? This morning, I invite you to come with me to Calvary. We'll go back to this historic event which has had such a profound impact on every single person who has ever lived. And please look closely. You just might see someone there who looks suspiciously life yourself.
One verse in Matthew's gospel records the cold facts, saying "And sitting down, they watched Him there." What were they watching? They were watching Jesus die. Who were these watchers? What were their thoughts that day? What role were they playing? What happened is clearly recorded and is fascinating beyond imagination. Please come with me in your minds this morning, to Calvary, to the Old Rugged Cross and look in at these people who were there literally watching Jesus die.
Text: Matthew 27:36
"They cried, saying crucify Him, crucify Him." Luke 23:21
"They took Jesus and led Him away. And He, bearing His cross went forth into a place called the skull...Where they crucified Him." John 19:16-18
These verses from the Bible take us once again to the very place where one of the most incredible, brutal scenes of all time took place. There on Golgotha's hill, the creature gleefully murdered the Creator, the One who had come only to do man good. They rejected their Redeemer, forsook their forgiver, silenced their Saviour. Who was there that day? Have you ever considered that? This morning, I invite you to come with me to Calvary. We'll go back to this historic event which has had such a profound impact on every single person who has ever lived. And please look closely. You just might see someone there who looks suspiciously life yourself.
One verse in Matthew's gospel records the cold facts, saying "And sitting down, they watched Him there." What were they watching? They were watching Jesus die. Who were these watchers? What were their thoughts that day? What role were they playing? What happened is clearly recorded and is fascinating beyond imagination. Please come with me in your minds this morning, to Calvary, to the Old Rugged Cross and look in at these people who were there literally watching Jesus die.
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March 11, 2012: "God's Rewards for Faithful Stewards" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: Last in five-part series on "Stewardship of Life"
Texts: 1 Corinthians 3:1-14; Hebrews 6:10
We have now come to the final message in this five-part series on "Stewardship of Life". We made the point that while stewardship includes God's right to our money and possessions, it is not limited to material things. We took note of the fact that God owns everything, and that we are not our own. These truths led us to the third message where we considered the call from God for a personal commitment. Then last Sunday, in the fourth message, we looked into the Word to see, in light of these three great facts, what it is that God does expect from stewards in reference to our possessions. Now this morning, as we conclude the series we are going to end on a happy, positive note. We will be considering what God tells us are the rewards for being faithful to Him in the three areas of our lives: time, talents, and treasures. He has promised in so many ways that He does not forget a believer's trustworthiness and faithful service. He promises that there is a "payday someday". Those who are good stewards will love what God has to say to us this morning.
Note: Last in five-part series on "Stewardship of Life"
Texts: 1 Corinthians 3:1-14; Hebrews 6:10
We have now come to the final message in this five-part series on "Stewardship of Life". We made the point that while stewardship includes God's right to our money and possessions, it is not limited to material things. We took note of the fact that God owns everything, and that we are not our own. These truths led us to the third message where we considered the call from God for a personal commitment. Then last Sunday, in the fourth message, we looked into the Word to see, in light of these three great facts, what it is that God does expect from stewards in reference to our possessions. Now this morning, as we conclude the series we are going to end on a happy, positive note. We will be considering what God tells us are the rewards for being faithful to Him in the three areas of our lives: time, talents, and treasures. He has promised in so many ways that He does not forget a believer's trustworthiness and faithful service. He promises that there is a "payday someday". Those who are good stewards will love what God has to say to us this morning.
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March 4, 2012: "What God Expects of a Steward" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: Fourth in five-part series on "Stewardship of Life
Texts: Proverbs 3:9,10; Luke 6:38; I Corinthians 16:2; II Corinthians 9:7
Stewardship is not merely about money and possessions. It is about the steward's life, including time, talent and treasure. But though this is true, it is also about money, and that is our subject this morning. As soon as we think about this subject, your reaction and mine to the subject of giving is a barometer and an indicator of our relationship with the Lord.
Two interesting New testament verses reveal this. The first is in I Cor.8:5-7. There Paul was speaking about giving to God's Cause. He wrote about the generosity of the churches of Macedonia to the cause of Christ, saying, "...they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God." Then in verse 7 he added, "But as you abound in everything - in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence and in your love for us - see that you abound in this grace also." He was referring to the grace of giving. And then in the very next verse, Paul wrote, "I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love..."
Our attitude towards giving to God is a true reflection of our relationship, our attitude towards Him. This morning we look into God's expectations, His wishes for us in this sensitive and vital area of giving our money and our possessions to God and His work, as we consider this great subject - "What God Expects of a Steward". I hope you will pay strict attention to this message. It could change your life.
Note: Fourth in five-part series on "Stewardship of Life
Texts: Proverbs 3:9,10; Luke 6:38; I Corinthians 16:2; II Corinthians 9:7
Stewardship is not merely about money and possessions. It is about the steward's life, including time, talent and treasure. But though this is true, it is also about money, and that is our subject this morning. As soon as we think about this subject, your reaction and mine to the subject of giving is a barometer and an indicator of our relationship with the Lord.
Two interesting New testament verses reveal this. The first is in I Cor.8:5-7. There Paul was speaking about giving to God's Cause. He wrote about the generosity of the churches of Macedonia to the cause of Christ, saying, "...they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God." Then in verse 7 he added, "But as you abound in everything - in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence and in your love for us - see that you abound in this grace also." He was referring to the grace of giving. And then in the very next verse, Paul wrote, "I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love..."
Our attitude towards giving to God is a true reflection of our relationship, our attitude towards Him. This morning we look into God's expectations, His wishes for us in this sensitive and vital area of giving our money and our possessions to God and His work, as we consider this great subject - "What God Expects of a Steward". I hope you will pay strict attention to this message. It could change your life.
February 26, 2012: AWANA Presentation (Kevin Clarke)
Note: Today we are honoured to welcome AWANA Missionaries, Kevin and Leona Clarke. As part of their ministry, they counsel with pastors and leaders regarding the youth ministry of their churches, and present the AWANA program.
Mr. Clarke spoke of the broken state of the lives of today's society, especially with children. Making reference to God's Word, specifically in Mark 10: 13-16, Mr. Clarke challenged individuals to ask themselves this question: Are you the group of adults who are hindering the ministry of our children (no time, no money, worries about having young people in the building), or you the group of adults who are bringing the children to Jesus for salvation? Mr. Clarke shared the following video.
Note: Today we are honoured to welcome AWANA Missionaries, Kevin and Leona Clarke. As part of their ministry, they counsel with pastors and leaders regarding the youth ministry of their churches, and present the AWANA program.
Mr. Clarke spoke of the broken state of the lives of today's society, especially with children. Making reference to God's Word, specifically in Mark 10: 13-16, Mr. Clarke challenged individuals to ask themselves this question: Are you the group of adults who are hindering the ministry of our children (no time, no money, worries about having young people in the building), or you the group of adults who are bringing the children to Jesus for salvation? Mr. Clarke shared the following video.
February 19, 2012: "Stewardship and Personal Commitment" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: Third in five part series on "Stewardship of Life"
Texts: 1 Corinthians 4:2; Romans 12:1; Matthew 6:33
So far in our series, we have discussed general truths of Stewardship of Life. We have taken note of the tendency of many to think only of money when they hear the word "stewardship". But we have learned from God's Word that while He does expect us to be faithful in the stewardship of our money, He desires to have us to be faithful with all the components of our lives, including time, talent and treasure. Let's look back to the two previous messages in this series. Message number one was entitled, "God Owns Everything," and detailed the facts that because God made everything, He therefore owns everything. This means that He owns us, His children, because He made us and He redeemed us. And it is also true that because He owns us, He also owns all we are and have.
Then in the second message, "We are Not Our Own", we looked deeply into the facts that He purchased us, He possesses us and therefore has the right to ask us to participate in His great plan of the ages, the redemption of the world. Now today, as our subject "Stewardship and Personal Commitment" implies, building on those two messages, we will get up close and personal. We will take a close look at the truth that stewardship is very personal and God calls on His stewards to be committed to Him and His work.
Note: Third in five part series on "Stewardship of Life"
Texts: 1 Corinthians 4:2; Romans 12:1; Matthew 6:33
So far in our series, we have discussed general truths of Stewardship of Life. We have taken note of the tendency of many to think only of money when they hear the word "stewardship". But we have learned from God's Word that while He does expect us to be faithful in the stewardship of our money, He desires to have us to be faithful with all the components of our lives, including time, talent and treasure. Let's look back to the two previous messages in this series. Message number one was entitled, "God Owns Everything," and detailed the facts that because God made everything, He therefore owns everything. This means that He owns us, His children, because He made us and He redeemed us. And it is also true that because He owns us, He also owns all we are and have.
Then in the second message, "We are Not Our Own", we looked deeply into the facts that He purchased us, He possesses us and therefore has the right to ask us to participate in His great plan of the ages, the redemption of the world. Now today, as our subject "Stewardship and Personal Commitment" implies, building on those two messages, we will get up close and personal. We will take a close look at the truth that stewardship is very personal and God calls on His stewards to be committed to Him and His work.
February 5, 2012: "We Are Not Our Own" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: Second in five-part series on "Stewardship of Life"
Acts 17:28; Romans 14:8, 1 Corinthians 4:1,2; Colossians 3:17
Last week, we began a new five part series on the subject "Stewardship of Life". In it, the emphasis was on the great truth that God owns everything, we but His stewards, or His managers. He made heaven and earth, so He owns all creation. He made each of us, so He owns us. He gave us our lives, our time, talent, and treasure, so they all belong to Him. This is an indisputable fact and all thinking Christians readily acknowledge it. The Psalmist David echoed this truth when in the 24th Psalm with the words, "The earth is the Lord's and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein." And Paul, writing to the Corinthians reminded them, "you are not your own."
Now this morning, we take the second step in our study of stewardship. It has to do with the logical, reasonable response that we should be making in light of this great truth that God owns everything. It does not take brilliance on anyone's part to see that in view of the fact that He owns everything, including us and our time, talent and treasure, we have a responsibility of living our whole lives in His service, acknowledging that all we are, all we have belongs to Him, and He has a right to be the Lord of our lives.
Paul wrote to the Romans, in view of His ownership of all things, that we, as His children should present our bodies to Him, explaining that it is our "reasonable service." Then later, after reminding the Corinthians that they were not their own, he concluded, "therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit which are God's".
How we are to carry out our "reasonable service" and "glorify God" is the focus of our message this morning.
Note: Second in five-part series on "Stewardship of Life"
Acts 17:28; Romans 14:8, 1 Corinthians 4:1,2; Colossians 3:17
Last week, we began a new five part series on the subject "Stewardship of Life". In it, the emphasis was on the great truth that God owns everything, we but His stewards, or His managers. He made heaven and earth, so He owns all creation. He made each of us, so He owns us. He gave us our lives, our time, talent, and treasure, so they all belong to Him. This is an indisputable fact and all thinking Christians readily acknowledge it. The Psalmist David echoed this truth when in the 24th Psalm with the words, "The earth is the Lord's and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein." And Paul, writing to the Corinthians reminded them, "you are not your own."
Now this morning, we take the second step in our study of stewardship. It has to do with the logical, reasonable response that we should be making in light of this great truth that God owns everything. It does not take brilliance on anyone's part to see that in view of the fact that He owns everything, including us and our time, talent and treasure, we have a responsibility of living our whole lives in His service, acknowledging that all we are, all we have belongs to Him, and He has a right to be the Lord of our lives.
Paul wrote to the Romans, in view of His ownership of all things, that we, as His children should present our bodies to Him, explaining that it is our "reasonable service." Then later, after reminding the Corinthians that they were not their own, he concluded, "therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit which are God's".
How we are to carry out our "reasonable service" and "glorify God" is the focus of our message this morning.
January 29, 2012: "God Owns Everything" (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: First in five-part series on "Stewardship of Life"
Deuteronomy 10:14; 1 Chronicles 29:11; 1 Corinthians 4:1-2; Psalm 24:1-2
When we hear the word stewardship, many immediately think of money. And some want to run and hide, because they conclude that the preacher is going to try to get more money from them. But the word steward has a much broader meaning than giving money. The dictionary defines a steward as a person employed to manage another's property; a person responsible for supplies of food, etc. In biblical terms, a steward is one who temporarily manages God's properties. Our lives, time, talent and treasure are merely loaned to us. As Paul wrote, "You are not your own."
While stewardship does apply to our financial resources, it also applies to much more. It is the Christian's management of all aspects of his or her redeemed life as the Holy Spirit directs through the Word, to God's glory and for man's benefit. It is the believer's response to God's love. It is the evidence and measure of Christian sincerity.
Today we begin a five part series on Stewardship of Life. We will deal with God's ownership, our stewardship of life, time, talent and resources. We will take note that Christian stewardship requires personal commitment, and see that God expects His ownership to be cheerfully acknowledged and that He holds every Christian accountable for all that has been entrusted to us. This morning we begin this five part series on this interesting, challenging and vital subject - Stewardship of Life. Please try to take in every message. It could change your life.
Note: First in five-part series on "Stewardship of Life"
Deuteronomy 10:14; 1 Chronicles 29:11; 1 Corinthians 4:1-2; Psalm 24:1-2
When we hear the word stewardship, many immediately think of money. And some want to run and hide, because they conclude that the preacher is going to try to get more money from them. But the word steward has a much broader meaning than giving money. The dictionary defines a steward as a person employed to manage another's property; a person responsible for supplies of food, etc. In biblical terms, a steward is one who temporarily manages God's properties. Our lives, time, talent and treasure are merely loaned to us. As Paul wrote, "You are not your own."
While stewardship does apply to our financial resources, it also applies to much more. It is the Christian's management of all aspects of his or her redeemed life as the Holy Spirit directs through the Word, to God's glory and for man's benefit. It is the believer's response to God's love. It is the evidence and measure of Christian sincerity.
Today we begin a five part series on Stewardship of Life. We will deal with God's ownership, our stewardship of life, time, talent and resources. We will take note that Christian stewardship requires personal commitment, and see that God expects His ownership to be cheerfully acknowledged and that He holds every Christian accountable for all that has been entrusted to us. This morning we begin this five part series on this interesting, challenging and vital subject - Stewardship of Life. Please try to take in every message. It could change your life.
January 22, 2012: "Atlantic Region Ministries and the Great Commission" Matthew 28:19 (Dr. Les Dennis)
Dr. Les Dennis, General Director of Atlantic Region Ministries, shared how ARM is following the Great Commission, reaching out to Atlantic Canada. Les is currently exploring possible new church planting locations in several areas in the Maritimes.
Dr. Les Dennis, General Director of Atlantic Region Ministries, shared how ARM is following the Great Commission, reaching out to Atlantic Canada. Les is currently exploring possible new church planting locations in several areas in the Maritimes.
January 15, 2012: "They Made Up Their Minds" Daniel 1:8; Joshua 24:15; Luke 19:6
(Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Indecision, procrastination, neglect. These words tell us of some of the most damaging habits which characterize so many of us, and the cost which results in our lives and those we influence is often a very high one. Frequently decisions are left hanging because we find it hard to make up our minds. And plans to do it 'later' are so often never carried out. Failure to carry out the important things in our lives, especially when we have made promises to spouses or children are hurtful and cause much pain.
Putting it simply, we need to stop being indecisive, when we know something has to be done. We need to cease waiting for a more convenient time. And we need to be done with neglecting to do what we know is right. The Bible is filled with men and women who simply 'made up their minds'. They did so regarding the salvation of their souls, living godly lives separate from worldly ways and getting serious about serving the Lord Jesus here and now. That is our subject this morning, as we consider several Bible characters, but focussing especially on three men.
(Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Indecision, procrastination, neglect. These words tell us of some of the most damaging habits which characterize so many of us, and the cost which results in our lives and those we influence is often a very high one. Frequently decisions are left hanging because we find it hard to make up our minds. And plans to do it 'later' are so often never carried out. Failure to carry out the important things in our lives, especially when we have made promises to spouses or children are hurtful and cause much pain.
Putting it simply, we need to stop being indecisive, when we know something has to be done. We need to cease waiting for a more convenient time. And we need to be done with neglecting to do what we know is right. The Bible is filled with men and women who simply 'made up their minds'. They did so regarding the salvation of their souls, living godly lives separate from worldly ways and getting serious about serving the Lord Jesus here and now. That is our subject this morning, as we consider several Bible characters, but focussing especially on three men.
January 8, 2012: "Great Expectations for 2012" Psalm 121 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
What do you expect to happen in 2012? Of course we do not know what to expect for sure, since we do not know the future. But God does, and He has given us a number of certainties we can count on. The certainty of the life in Christ is the strongest fortress for a Christian's soul. Paul never forgot the house of his conversion. Before he had lived at enmity with the Lord Jesus Christ. After his conversion, he lived a life of victory and fearlessness. The preaching and practices of Paul were now in the realm of "I know", a phrase he often used in his writings. His messages were accented with a strong belief in the eternal truths that were revealed to him by the Holy Spirit, and which resulted in great expectations for his life and those around him. Doubt, uncertainty, fear, instability of purpose were all conquered by the knowledge of Him in whom Paul believed. Paul did not have any more "great expectations" that we can have. Let's look at those he enjoyed, and those of other Bible characters, this morning.
What do you expect to happen in 2012? Of course we do not know what to expect for sure, since we do not know the future. But God does, and He has given us a number of certainties we can count on. The certainty of the life in Christ is the strongest fortress for a Christian's soul. Paul never forgot the house of his conversion. Before he had lived at enmity with the Lord Jesus Christ. After his conversion, he lived a life of victory and fearlessness. The preaching and practices of Paul were now in the realm of "I know", a phrase he often used in his writings. His messages were accented with a strong belief in the eternal truths that were revealed to him by the Holy Spirit, and which resulted in great expectations for his life and those around him. Doubt, uncertainty, fear, instability of purpose were all conquered by the knowledge of Him in whom Paul believed. Paul did not have any more "great expectations" that we can have. Let's look at those he enjoyed, and those of other Bible characters, this morning.
January 1, 2012: "New Beginning in 2012" John 1: 1-5, 9-14 (Dr. Wallace Jorden)
We are pleased to have Pastor Wallace Jorden as guest speaker today.
We are pleased to have Pastor Wallace Jorden as guest speaker today.
December 18, 2011: "An Unforgettable Night in a Field" Luke 2: 1-20 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Most news today is bad news, because it is about human beings. We are bombarded continuously with stores about earthquakes, famine, wars, murders, thefts, sexual abuse, and other unthinkable events. Many people have become so depressed they have stopped reading, watching or listening to news. But what a contrast is found in this text where the announcer was an angel from heaven. And before the terrified and surprised shepherds, keeping watch over their flocks by night, the news was not bad, but good. The angels said, "Do not be afriad, for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people." What welcome news from heaven! It was clear, he had the full and undivided attention of those shepherds. Their eyes were riveted on him, their ears taking in every word. This wonderful text, Luke 2: 1-20, reveals a preacher, a message and a captive audience of humble men who would never forget what they saw and heard that night, and they would never be the same again. This is our subject in today's message.
Most news today is bad news, because it is about human beings. We are bombarded continuously with stores about earthquakes, famine, wars, murders, thefts, sexual abuse, and other unthinkable events. Many people have become so depressed they have stopped reading, watching or listening to news. But what a contrast is found in this text where the announcer was an angel from heaven. And before the terrified and surprised shepherds, keeping watch over their flocks by night, the news was not bad, but good. The angels said, "Do not be afriad, for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people." What welcome news from heaven! It was clear, he had the full and undivided attention of those shepherds. Their eyes were riveted on him, their ears taking in every word. This wonderful text, Luke 2: 1-20, reveals a preacher, a message and a captive audience of humble men who would never forget what they saw and heard that night, and they would never be the same again. This is our subject in today's message.
December 11, 2011: "Birthday of the King: Right on Time!" Galatians 4:4&5 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
God had not spoken in any way for 400 years. They have been called the 'silent years'. Would God ever speak to Israel again? It seemed that the very heavens had turned to brass. The Jewish people sighed under the Roman yoke. They were in bondage to Rome, to idols, and to a cynical hopelessness that had enveloped them and was choking them. Where was their Messiah? Where was their delivered? The ugly shadows of fear and doubt spread gradually throughout the land. Yet in the shadows, God was in fact, working out His wondrous purposes, waiting for the fullness of time to give His final answer to man's deepest need. Quietly prophecy and history began to merge, events and characters took form and shape and a marvelous pattern began to appear. The promise given so long ago was soon to be fulfilled. The fullness of time was at hand. The Morning Star was on the horizon. That's what Paul was referring to in Galatians 4: 4-5 when he wrote "But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." That is the grand theme of our deliberations this morning.
God had not spoken in any way for 400 years. They have been called the 'silent years'. Would God ever speak to Israel again? It seemed that the very heavens had turned to brass. The Jewish people sighed under the Roman yoke. They were in bondage to Rome, to idols, and to a cynical hopelessness that had enveloped them and was choking them. Where was their Messiah? Where was their delivered? The ugly shadows of fear and doubt spread gradually throughout the land. Yet in the shadows, God was in fact, working out His wondrous purposes, waiting for the fullness of time to give His final answer to man's deepest need. Quietly prophecy and history began to merge, events and characters took form and shape and a marvelous pattern began to appear. The promise given so long ago was soon to be fulfilled. The fullness of time was at hand. The Morning Star was on the horizon. That's what Paul was referring to in Galatians 4: 4-5 when he wrote "But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." That is the grand theme of our deliberations this morning.
December 4, 2011: Jesus' Portrait of Joyful People Matthew 5: 9&10 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
(Note: Last of Four-Part Series)
We have now come to the last two of these wonderful beatitudes, which are really Jesus' portrait of joyful people. All things being equal, God's people, born again Christians will be the most joyful, truly happy people in the world. The word "blessed" which Jesus used does not refer to just how one feels, but is actually a word which means enjoying the divine favour of God. In this seventh beatitude, "peace makers", Jesus invites us to receive His blessing and favour by being peacemakers in our communities and circle of friends. Being peacemakers earns us the honour of being called children of God. Then Jesus ends His beatitudes with the astounding statement that those who are persecuted for their beliefs and their stand for righteousness are also candidates for being blessed. These two beatitudes are filled with exciting rich truths for believers today and will be our subject this morning.
(Note: Last of Four-Part Series)
We have now come to the last two of these wonderful beatitudes, which are really Jesus' portrait of joyful people. All things being equal, God's people, born again Christians will be the most joyful, truly happy people in the world. The word "blessed" which Jesus used does not refer to just how one feels, but is actually a word which means enjoying the divine favour of God. In this seventh beatitude, "peace makers", Jesus invites us to receive His blessing and favour by being peacemakers in our communities and circle of friends. Being peacemakers earns us the honour of being called children of God. Then Jesus ends His beatitudes with the astounding statement that those who are persecuted for their beliefs and their stand for righteousness are also candidates for being blessed. These two beatitudes are filled with exciting rich truths for believers today and will be our subject this morning.
November 27, 2011: "Jesus' Portrait of Joyful People" Matthew 5: 7&8 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
(Note: Third in Series)
In this famous first section of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, Jesus describes the spiritual condition of those who are walking in accord with Him and His ways. In verses three to six, He has told us of those who are "blessed" because they have recognized that they are in spiritual poverty ("poor in spirit"); genuinely convicted of their spiritual condition ("those who mourn"); possessing of a humble attitude and acceptance of God's handling of life (the "meek"); and who hunger for God ("who hunger and thirst for righteousness"). In today's message, we move on to verses seven and eight and to those who are described as "merciful" and "pure in heart". We look at those who have mercy, even on those who have wronged them and the "pure in spirit" or the utterly sincere.
(Note: Third in Series)
In this famous first section of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, Jesus describes the spiritual condition of those who are walking in accord with Him and His ways. In verses three to six, He has told us of those who are "blessed" because they have recognized that they are in spiritual poverty ("poor in spirit"); genuinely convicted of their spiritual condition ("those who mourn"); possessing of a humble attitude and acceptance of God's handling of life (the "meek"); and who hunger for God ("who hunger and thirst for righteousness"). In today's message, we move on to verses seven and eight and to those who are described as "merciful" and "pure in heart". We look at those who have mercy, even on those who have wronged them and the "pure in spirit" or the utterly sincere.
November 20, 2011: "Jesus' Portrait of Joyful People" Matthew 5: 5 & 6 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
(Note: Second in Series)
So far in our series in the Beatitudes, we have noted three important introductory points regarding the Beatitudes. First, the eight character traits do not refer to eight separate individuals or groups, but the same group of people who are expected to be poor in spirit, merciful, pure in heart, etc. Second, the qualities are all spiritual, not physical qualities. He is not referring to people who are hungry for food, or poor in terms of resources, but hungry for righteousness, and spiritually poor. Third, when Jesus uses the word "blessed", He is not speaking of merely happiness as the world would understand it, but rather those who have the favour of the Heavenly Father. This morning we will discuss the third and fourth qualities, those who are meek and those who hunger and thirst after righteousness.
(Note: Second in Series)
So far in our series in the Beatitudes, we have noted three important introductory points regarding the Beatitudes. First, the eight character traits do not refer to eight separate individuals or groups, but the same group of people who are expected to be poor in spirit, merciful, pure in heart, etc. Second, the qualities are all spiritual, not physical qualities. He is not referring to people who are hungry for food, or poor in terms of resources, but hungry for righteousness, and spiritually poor. Third, when Jesus uses the word "blessed", He is not speaking of merely happiness as the world would understand it, but rather those who have the favour of the Heavenly Father. This morning we will discuss the third and fourth qualities, those who are meek and those who hunger and thirst after righteousness.
November 13, 2011: "Jesus' Portrait of Joyful People" Matthew 5: 1-12 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
(First in Series)
These verses are part of what has become known as the "Sermon on the Mount" because Matthew 5:1 tells us that Jesus went up on a mountain and taught His disciples. His messages were divided into three major sessions: Chapters Five, Six and Seven. In Chapter Five, our Lord dealt with the Christian's Character. In Chapter Six, He dealt with the Christian's Ambition, and in Chapter Seven, with the Christian's Relationships.
In the next few weeks, we will be looking into the first of these three mountain-top messages. It has been called the Beatitudes because they speak of the blessing, or favour of God upon His children, when certain conditions are met. The Beatitudes give us a wealth of teaching that is rich and inspiring. This morning, Pastor Alex introduces these wonderful words of our Saviour.
(First in Series)
These verses are part of what has become known as the "Sermon on the Mount" because Matthew 5:1 tells us that Jesus went up on a mountain and taught His disciples. His messages were divided into three major sessions: Chapters Five, Six and Seven. In Chapter Five, our Lord dealt with the Christian's Character. In Chapter Six, He dealt with the Christian's Ambition, and in Chapter Seven, with the Christian's Relationships.
In the next few weeks, we will be looking into the first of these three mountain-top messages. It has been called the Beatitudes because they speak of the blessing, or favour of God upon His children, when certain conditions are met. The Beatitudes give us a wealth of teaching that is rich and inspiring. This morning, Pastor Alex introduces these wonderful words of our Saviour.
November 6, 2011: "The Essential Step of Repentance" Acts 2: 22-41
We were pleased to welcome Dr. Wallace Jorden as our Guest Speaker during this special "Each One Bring One" service. From this text in the book of Acts. Dr. Jorden gave insight into "metanoia", the essential step of repentance, when we first have a change of heart and turn to Jesus Christ. Our life changes include our Belonging, our Believing, and our Behaving.
We were pleased to welcome Dr. Wallace Jorden as our Guest Speaker during this special "Each One Bring One" service. From this text in the book of Acts. Dr. Jorden gave insight into "metanoia", the essential step of repentance, when we first have a change of heart and turn to Jesus Christ. Our life changes include our Belonging, our Believing, and our Behaving.
October 30, 2011: "The Early Church and Prayer" Acts 4: 24-30 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: Last in Series on Lessons From the Early Church
The prayer which men have called "The Lord's Prayer" was the first specific lesson prayer that Jesus taught His disciples. they had been listening in to their Master while He was praying, and the experience had kindled in their hearts a yearning to know the same intimacy with the Father that He enjoyed. He answered them by giving them a model, or pattern, for prayer which has become the most widely known and used often for public praying, even though that was not Jesus' purpose.
The men and women of the early church must have heard about this wonderful experience of the disciples and their appetites were whetted with the result that they really believed in prayer. It was the centre of their lives. They prayed for boldness to speak forth the gospel. They prayed when some of their numbers were imprisoned for their faith. They prayed when folks were sick. And their prayers were answered, and prison doors were opened, folks were saved and sick were healed. They were given wisdom. The early church is our example of the power of prayer. In this, the final message in our six-part series, that is our subject this morning.
Note: Last in Series on Lessons From the Early Church
The prayer which men have called "The Lord's Prayer" was the first specific lesson prayer that Jesus taught His disciples. they had been listening in to their Master while He was praying, and the experience had kindled in their hearts a yearning to know the same intimacy with the Father that He enjoyed. He answered them by giving them a model, or pattern, for prayer which has become the most widely known and used often for public praying, even though that was not Jesus' purpose.
The men and women of the early church must have heard about this wonderful experience of the disciples and their appetites were whetted with the result that they really believed in prayer. It was the centre of their lives. They prayed for boldness to speak forth the gospel. They prayed when some of their numbers were imprisoned for their faith. They prayed when folks were sick. And their prayers were answered, and prison doors were opened, folks were saved and sick were healed. They were given wisdom. The early church is our example of the power of prayer. In this, the final message in our six-part series, that is our subject this morning.
October 23, 2011: "The Early Church and Evangelism" Acts 1:8 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: Fifth in Series on Lessons From the Early Church
You do not need to read very far in the Book of Acts to find out that something very exciting was happening in the early church. The people were excited about their salvation. They were thrilled at the knowledge that they had been forgiven and were in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. But there was something else going on. They were not satisfied to know that they were Christians. They simply had to share the gospel message with others. Sometimes it happened as a result of the preaching of a great sermon, like Peter's. Sometimes it happened when one person spoke to another, such as Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch, or when Paul and Silas won their jailer to Christ. It was not left to the Pastors or Apostles. Wherever they went they urged others to come to Christ. These dear people realized that the main business of every single Christian was getting people to Jesus. As we continue our study of the early church today, this is our theme: evangelism.
Note: Fifth in Series on Lessons From the Early Church
You do not need to read very far in the Book of Acts to find out that something very exciting was happening in the early church. The people were excited about their salvation. They were thrilled at the knowledge that they had been forgiven and were in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. But there was something else going on. They were not satisfied to know that they were Christians. They simply had to share the gospel message with others. Sometimes it happened as a result of the preaching of a great sermon, like Peter's. Sometimes it happened when one person spoke to another, such as Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch, or when Paul and Silas won their jailer to Christ. It was not left to the Pastors or Apostles. Wherever they went they urged others to come to Christ. These dear people realized that the main business of every single Christian was getting people to Jesus. As we continue our study of the early church today, this is our theme: evangelism.
October 16, 2011: "What the Bible Says About the Lord's Table" Acts 2:42 & 1 Corinthians 11:23-32 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: Fourth in series on Lessons From the Early Church
Last Sunday, I suggested that the two large towers on each end of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco Harbour provide an accurate picture of the two ordinances of the church: Baptism and the Lord's Supper. As the two towers are supported by the same solid rock foundation that runs under the channel, so the two ordinances are founded on the solid Rock, Christ Jesus. Last week we looked into the first of these, Baptism, which was introduced at the beginning of Christ's earthly ministry. Now today, we will look at the second, the Lord's Supper, which came near the end of His ministry. There are many and varied interpretations of the Lord's Table. In today's message, we examine some of them in the light of the Scriptures and see how the early church understood and practiced this important ordinance.
Note: Fourth in series on Lessons From the Early Church
Last Sunday, I suggested that the two large towers on each end of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco Harbour provide an accurate picture of the two ordinances of the church: Baptism and the Lord's Supper. As the two towers are supported by the same solid rock foundation that runs under the channel, so the two ordinances are founded on the solid Rock, Christ Jesus. Last week we looked into the first of these, Baptism, which was introduced at the beginning of Christ's earthly ministry. Now today, we will look at the second, the Lord's Supper, which came near the end of His ministry. There are many and varied interpretations of the Lord's Table. In today's message, we examine some of them in the light of the Scriptures and see how the early church understood and practiced this important ordinance.
October 9, 2011: "The Importance of Baptism" Acts 2: 41-47 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: Third in series on Lessons From the Early Church
In the second chapter of Acts, Peter preached a dynamic sermon, ending with an invitation to his hearers to be saved. Three thousand responded and trusted Christ as Saviour. After this, Luke, the human author of the book of Acts, wrote, "then those who gladly received his word were baptized." Imagine - 3,000 baptisms! Baptism was a very important part of the early church. The New Testament has many reports of believers being baptized.
Many folks today have questions about baptism. They want to know who may be baptized, what is the correct mode or method of baptism, and what is the purpose of this ordinance. Unfortunately, there is much confusion about this subject. But there is no need for confusion or misunderstanding. The New Testament clearly answers these questions. The early church understood and practised believers' baptism as one of the very first steps after conversion. This is the subject of today's message, in this third in our series on lessons from the early church.
Note: Third in series on Lessons From the Early Church
In the second chapter of Acts, Peter preached a dynamic sermon, ending with an invitation to his hearers to be saved. Three thousand responded and trusted Christ as Saviour. After this, Luke, the human author of the book of Acts, wrote, "then those who gladly received his word were baptized." Imagine - 3,000 baptisms! Baptism was a very important part of the early church. The New Testament has many reports of believers being baptized.
Many folks today have questions about baptism. They want to know who may be baptized, what is the correct mode or method of baptism, and what is the purpose of this ordinance. Unfortunately, there is much confusion about this subject. But there is no need for confusion or misunderstanding. The New Testament clearly answers these questions. The early church understood and practised believers' baptism as one of the very first steps after conversion. This is the subject of today's message, in this third in our series on lessons from the early church.
October 2, 2011: "Marks of a Good Church" Acts 2:42-47 and II Timothy 4:1-4 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: Second in series on Lessons From the Early Church.
Most of us love hearing of a striking answer to prayer, or the joy that came after the confession of sin and restoration to fellowship with the Lord. These are uplifting and they glorify God. They strengthen the faith of other Christians, and they often encourage unbelievers to trust the Saviour. Personal testimonies are important. It is disturbing, however, when we hear experience exalted at the expense of doctrine. In today's experience-oriented atmosphere, this is sometimes a reaction to dead, formal belief which can cause us to overlook the truth that the Lord Jesus brings a real, personal and life-transforming salvation to those who trust Him. But the fact remains that a strong emphasis upon the foundational doctrines in God's Word is vital to the Christian life. That's why it is so important for us to be associated with a church that is characterized by "sound doctrine" and where it is taught regularly. In our second message on the early church, this is our topic.
Note: Second in series on Lessons From the Early Church.
Most of us love hearing of a striking answer to prayer, or the joy that came after the confession of sin and restoration to fellowship with the Lord. These are uplifting and they glorify God. They strengthen the faith of other Christians, and they often encourage unbelievers to trust the Saviour. Personal testimonies are important. It is disturbing, however, when we hear experience exalted at the expense of doctrine. In today's experience-oriented atmosphere, this is sometimes a reaction to dead, formal belief which can cause us to overlook the truth that the Lord Jesus brings a real, personal and life-transforming salvation to those who trust Him. But the fact remains that a strong emphasis upon the foundational doctrines in God's Word is vital to the Christian life. That's why it is so important for us to be associated with a church that is characterized by "sound doctrine" and where it is taught regularly. In our second message on the early church, this is our topic.
September 25, 2011: "What a Church!" Acts 2: 41-47 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Note: This is first in series on Lessons From the Early Church - Our Example.
In today's world, Christians have a steady stream of information from books, newspapers, radio, television, internet, blogs, facebooks, twitter, etc. etc. The list seems endless. In addition, we have almost limitless numbers of DVDs and other recordings from authors and preachers and bible teachers. Some of these sources are trustworthy and helpful, others are not. Because of this abundance, there can be a temptation to bury ourselves in this readily available, easily accessed material, to the extent that we neglect the most important of all sources - the Word of God. So when it comes to the incredibly important subject of the local church, while making appropriate use of that which is of human authorship, we need to make sure that we test it all under the searchlight of the Word of God, as the Berean believers did. In today's message, we take a close look at the early church and introduce ourselves to its makeup, message and methods. This is the first in a series on Lessons from the Early Church. Next Sunday, we will consider "Gladly Receiving the Word."
Note: This is first in series on Lessons From the Early Church - Our Example.
In today's world, Christians have a steady stream of information from books, newspapers, radio, television, internet, blogs, facebooks, twitter, etc. etc. The list seems endless. In addition, we have almost limitless numbers of DVDs and other recordings from authors and preachers and bible teachers. Some of these sources are trustworthy and helpful, others are not. Because of this abundance, there can be a temptation to bury ourselves in this readily available, easily accessed material, to the extent that we neglect the most important of all sources - the Word of God. So when it comes to the incredibly important subject of the local church, while making appropriate use of that which is of human authorship, we need to make sure that we test it all under the searchlight of the Word of God, as the Berean believers did. In today's message, we take a close look at the early church and introduce ourselves to its makeup, message and methods. This is the first in a series on Lessons from the Early Church. Next Sunday, we will consider "Gladly Receiving the Word."
September 11, 2011: "What God Orders, He Pays For" Joshua 1: 1-9 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
God never called a person to a task without giving the means to fulfill the task. You can be sure that if the call is from God, the power will also come from God. Joshua found that out, and we can learn from him. Remember our story which we looked into last Sunday. Moses, the great leader of Israel, had suddenly disappeared...not a trace of him. Only when God told the people of Israel that he had died, did they find out what had happened to him. Now, shockingly, Joshua, Moses' assistant, was being called upon to be the leader. He appears to have been frightened by the magnitude of the task, judging by what God said to him. But with the call came three important items- God gave Joshua a promise, a program, and the power to do what he has been called to do. And there is an application for us today as believers in the 21st century. In today's message, we will see how what God did in Joshua's life can also occur in ours.
God never called a person to a task without giving the means to fulfill the task. You can be sure that if the call is from God, the power will also come from God. Joshua found that out, and we can learn from him. Remember our story which we looked into last Sunday. Moses, the great leader of Israel, had suddenly disappeared...not a trace of him. Only when God told the people of Israel that he had died, did they find out what had happened to him. Now, shockingly, Joshua, Moses' assistant, was being called upon to be the leader. He appears to have been frightened by the magnitude of the task, judging by what God said to him. But with the call came three important items- God gave Joshua a promise, a program, and the power to do what he has been called to do. And there is an application for us today as believers in the 21st century. In today's message, we will see how what God did in Joshua's life can also occur in ours.
September 4, 2011: "Recipe for True Prosperity and Success" Joshua 1: 1-9 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Most of us want to have prosperity and success. Unfortunately many have a distorted idea of what these two much sought-after achievements really are. When we say that someone is prosperous and successful, almost immediately people, sometimes even Christians, think of money, prominence in the community, or the applause of others. But while there may be an element of truth in this definition, it is not what the Bible teaches about prosperity and success in the eyes of God.
In order to be prosperous and successful in the eyes of our Heavenly Father, and hear Him say some day, "Well done, good and faithful servant," we must, of necessity, know His definition of prosperity and success. Or, to put it another say, "How am I to live so as to be pleasing to God and be rewarded by Him?" Of course, there are many books written about being successful and prosperous, mostly having o do with making money or going to the top in sports or entertainment or some other area of endeavour. But if I am a Christian and I am serious about pleasing the Lord, there is only one "go to" place to learn what true prosperity and success are, and that is the Bible, God's inspired Word. That is the subject of today's message, as we learn about God's Word to Joshua in the Old Testament.
Most of us want to have prosperity and success. Unfortunately many have a distorted idea of what these two much sought-after achievements really are. When we say that someone is prosperous and successful, almost immediately people, sometimes even Christians, think of money, prominence in the community, or the applause of others. But while there may be an element of truth in this definition, it is not what the Bible teaches about prosperity and success in the eyes of God.
In order to be prosperous and successful in the eyes of our Heavenly Father, and hear Him say some day, "Well done, good and faithful servant," we must, of necessity, know His definition of prosperity and success. Or, to put it another say, "How am I to live so as to be pleasing to God and be rewarded by Him?" Of course, there are many books written about being successful and prosperous, mostly having o do with making money or going to the top in sports or entertainment or some other area of endeavour. But if I am a Christian and I am serious about pleasing the Lord, there is only one "go to" place to learn what true prosperity and success are, and that is the Bible, God's inspired Word. That is the subject of today's message, as we learn about God's Word to Joshua in the Old Testament.
August 28, 2011: "Bible Christians - then and Now" (Part III) 1 Peter 4: 12-19 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
We come now to the third and last mention of the word Christian in the New Testament. Acts 11:26 tells us that "... the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch." Then later in Acts 26:28 it is recorded that King Agrippa, after having been urged by Paul to make a decision to receive Christ as Saviour, said, "You almost persuade me to become a Christian." From the earlier texts we have learned a little about the background of this wonderful word Christian, and who it was who first derisively called the disciples by this name. Then in Paul's encounter with King Agrippa, we saw how the element of persuasion entered into the nee to win others for Christ. Now in the text for this morning, Peter uses the word, but from a different perspective. He says, "... if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter." That is the focus in today's message.
We come now to the third and last mention of the word Christian in the New Testament. Acts 11:26 tells us that "... the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch." Then later in Acts 26:28 it is recorded that King Agrippa, after having been urged by Paul to make a decision to receive Christ as Saviour, said, "You almost persuade me to become a Christian." From the earlier texts we have learned a little about the background of this wonderful word Christian, and who it was who first derisively called the disciples by this name. Then in Paul's encounter with King Agrippa, we saw how the element of persuasion entered into the nee to win others for Christ. Now in the text for this morning, Peter uses the word, but from a different perspective. He says, "... if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter." That is the focus in today's message.
August 14, 2011: "Bible Christians, Then and Now" Acts 26:28 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
The word "Christian" is very common and used millions of times every day. It is on our church signs, in our books, CDs, DVDs, Christian movies and more. It is, therefore, surprising to some to learn that the word is only found three times in the Bible. However, though that name is only used these three times, the New Testament is full of the truth of what a Christian is. In today's message, we will examine these three portions closely and seek to learn what God says goes into becoming a real Christian, including conversion and living a Christian life. Then we will move from the days of the early Christians and the writing of the New Testament and see how today's views of what a Christian is compares with that of the first Christians.
The word "Christian" is very common and used millions of times every day. It is on our church signs, in our books, CDs, DVDs, Christian movies and more. It is, therefore, surprising to some to learn that the word is only found three times in the Bible. However, though that name is only used these three times, the New Testament is full of the truth of what a Christian is. In today's message, we will examine these three portions closely and seek to learn what God says goes into becoming a real Christian, including conversion and living a Christian life. Then we will move from the days of the early Christians and the writing of the New Testament and see how today's views of what a Christian is compares with that of the first Christians.
August 7, 2011: "Five Elements of Joy" Philippians 1: 3-8 (Pastor Harvey Martell)
(Note: Rev. Harvey Martell is the Pastor of Grace Community Church in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. Harvey and his wife, Dale, are being blessed as they plant a church in Antigonish. They are visiting their home church today as they vacation on PEI.)
People today are consumed with a pursuit of happiness and few people are content with the things they have, no matter what they may be. As I was reading John MacArthur's commentary on Philippians, he said the following, "Our world is full of self-help books, motivational speakers, and advice columnists, all claiming to offer the key to true happiness; but for many people, the door remains locked." If happiness is a state of well-being and contentment, why are so many people unhappy and full of despair? I don't believe unsaved people can experience true joy. Biblical joy is love-singing and praising in spite of difficult circumstances. It can also be defined as the ability to copy with the problems of life and not lose your spiritual way. In today's message, we will look at "Five Elements of Joy". These elements can help us maintain our joy if we are faithful and obedient to the Word of God. Many things can steal our joy, but the offender of all is sin. God bless. Rev. Harvey Martell, Pastor of Grace Community Church
(Note: Rev. Harvey Martell is the Pastor of Grace Community Church in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. Harvey and his wife, Dale, are being blessed as they plant a church in Antigonish. They are visiting their home church today as they vacation on PEI.)
People today are consumed with a pursuit of happiness and few people are content with the things they have, no matter what they may be. As I was reading John MacArthur's commentary on Philippians, he said the following, "Our world is full of self-help books, motivational speakers, and advice columnists, all claiming to offer the key to true happiness; but for many people, the door remains locked." If happiness is a state of well-being and contentment, why are so many people unhappy and full of despair? I don't believe unsaved people can experience true joy. Biblical joy is love-singing and praising in spite of difficult circumstances. It can also be defined as the ability to copy with the problems of life and not lose your spiritual way. In today's message, we will look at "Five Elements of Joy". These elements can help us maintain our joy if we are faithful and obedient to the Word of God. Many things can steal our joy, but the offender of all is sin. God bless. Rev. Harvey Martell, Pastor of Grace Community Church
July 31, 2011: "Pay Day Some Day" Titus 2:13 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
This is the final message in this series on the subject of grace in the second chapter of Ephesians and Titus, chapter 2. In Ephesians, we journeyed from the graveyard of sins to the throne room of Glory. In Titus, we noted that grace redeems, and grace renews. Now in this section of our text today, we see the exciting promise that grace also rewards us; and that reward is tied to the blessed hope of our Saviour's return to catch away His bride, the church. What a hope is ours! God saved us, gives us the honour of serving Him; and as if that is not enough, He promises to reward us. What a Saviour we have!
This is the final message in this series on the subject of grace in the second chapter of Ephesians and Titus, chapter 2. In Ephesians, we journeyed from the graveyard of sins to the throne room of Glory. In Titus, we noted that grace redeems, and grace renews. Now in this section of our text today, we see the exciting promise that grace also rewards us; and that reward is tied to the blessed hope of our Saviour's return to catch away His bride, the church. What a hope is ours! God saved us, gives us the honour of serving Him; and as if that is not enough, He promises to reward us. What a Saviour we have!
July 24, 2011: "Amazing, Training, Grace" Titus 2: 12 & 14 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
In this series on the grace of God, we first considered Ephesians 2: 1-10, where we travelled the journey from the graveyard to the throne room. As we did, we discovered the portrait of our spiritual predicament - dead in sin. Then we moved to a picture of our supernatural provision because of the richness of God's grace - delivered from death because of Christ's death. We ended the session by seeing the overall purpose of our new position in Christ - in the 'heavenlies'. Then the next message, last Sunday, we viewed with amazement and wonder God's goodness to bad people and learning that this wonderful grace redeems us from all iniquity. (Note: We are sorry that last week's audio version is not available.) In today's message, we take another part of the journey of grace as we see how this grace not only redeems us, but it also renews us. As we look beneath the surface of Paul's inspired words, we find that not only is God's grace 'redeeming' grace, but it is also 'training' grace. This wonderful salvation which grace produces is not only a change of position, made alive, set free, but it also makes us godly people. This is the exciting of today's message.
In this series on the grace of God, we first considered Ephesians 2: 1-10, where we travelled the journey from the graveyard to the throne room. As we did, we discovered the portrait of our spiritual predicament - dead in sin. Then we moved to a picture of our supernatural provision because of the richness of God's grace - delivered from death because of Christ's death. We ended the session by seeing the overall purpose of our new position in Christ - in the 'heavenlies'. Then the next message, last Sunday, we viewed with amazement and wonder God's goodness to bad people and learning that this wonderful grace redeems us from all iniquity. (Note: We are sorry that last week's audio version is not available.) In today's message, we take another part of the journey of grace as we see how this grace not only redeems us, but it also renews us. As we look beneath the surface of Paul's inspired words, we find that not only is God's grace 'redeeming' grace, but it is also 'training' grace. This wonderful salvation which grace produces is not only a change of position, made alive, set free, but it also makes us godly people. This is the exciting of today's message.
July 10, 2011: "Just Do It!" Joshua 24: 14 & 15 (Pastor Jeff Rockwell)
(Note: Pastor Jeff Rockwell has been the Associate Pastor of Springfield Baptist Church in Ontario for the past eighteen years. He is married to Beth (Collier); they have two sons, Adam and Ben, and a daughter, Kate.)
It would be difficult to deny that the North American church has been saturated with every tangible advantage for a long time. Graced with freedom, affluence, well-established theological schools, myriad print resources, and talented leadership, Christians of the West should be unmatched in their passion for the glory of God. Instead, we are confronted with the sad reality of a church bloated with its blessings and yet weak in its testimony and impact on a failing society. The writers of Joshua and Judges understood too well the risks of prosperity without clarity. In today's message, Pastor Jeff explores their message and its importance then and now.
(Note: Pastor Jeff Rockwell has been the Associate Pastor of Springfield Baptist Church in Ontario for the past eighteen years. He is married to Beth (Collier); they have two sons, Adam and Ben, and a daughter, Kate.)
It would be difficult to deny that the North American church has been saturated with every tangible advantage for a long time. Graced with freedom, affluence, well-established theological schools, myriad print resources, and talented leadership, Christians of the West should be unmatched in their passion for the glory of God. Instead, we are confronted with the sad reality of a church bloated with its blessings and yet weak in its testimony and impact on a failing society. The writers of Joshua and Judges understood too well the risks of prosperity without clarity. In today's message, Pastor Jeff explores their message and its importance then and now.
July 3, 2011: "From the Grave to the Throne Room of Glory" Ephesians 2:1-10 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Most of us do not believe in what the movies sometimes have called 'zombies' or the 'walking dead'. They are creations of over-active imaginations to frighten and entertain movie-goers. But according to the Bible, anyone who has not taken Christ as Saviour is, in fact, a 'walking dead' person, not a physically dead one. That's because the Bible, in Ephesians 2:1, tells us that before we become Christians, we are spiritually dead in God's sight. Though we are physically alive, we are spiritually dead in trespasses and sin. Fortunately, however, that same portion of the Bible tells us Christ has intervened and taken our place on the cross to give us life, not just physical life, but eternal life. That journey which every believer takes - from the grave to the throne room - is the subject of today's message. Read all about it in Ephesians 2, verses 1 through 10.
Most of us do not believe in what the movies sometimes have called 'zombies' or the 'walking dead'. They are creations of over-active imaginations to frighten and entertain movie-goers. But according to the Bible, anyone who has not taken Christ as Saviour is, in fact, a 'walking dead' person, not a physically dead one. That's because the Bible, in Ephesians 2:1, tells us that before we become Christians, we are spiritually dead in God's sight. Though we are physically alive, we are spiritually dead in trespasses and sin. Fortunately, however, that same portion of the Bible tells us Christ has intervened and taken our place on the cross to give us life, not just physical life, but eternal life. That journey which every believer takes - from the grave to the throne room - is the subject of today's message. Read all about it in Ephesians 2, verses 1 through 10.
June 26, 2011: "One Big Happy Family" 1 Peter 3: 8-12 (Dr. Wallace Jorden)
On this "Family Sunday", a special occasion when many of the regular congregation invited family members and loved ones to join them in worship, Dr. Wallace Jorden filled in at the last minute when Pastor Alex Rockwell was not able to attend due to illness. Dr. Jorden shared from 1 Peter, reminding us that we are called together to be one big happy family of God. This uplifting and encouraging message asks us three important questions: 1. What can we do together as a family to love God more? 2. What can we do as a family to love one another more? and 3. What can we do together as a family to love the world more? God calls our church family, warts and all, to serve Him in these ways.
On this "Family Sunday", a special occasion when many of the regular congregation invited family members and loved ones to join them in worship, Dr. Wallace Jorden filled in at the last minute when Pastor Alex Rockwell was not able to attend due to illness. Dr. Jorden shared from 1 Peter, reminding us that we are called together to be one big happy family of God. This uplifting and encouraging message asks us three important questions: 1. What can we do together as a family to love God more? 2. What can we do as a family to love one another more? and 3. What can we do together as a family to love the world more? God calls our church family, warts and all, to serve Him in these ways.
June 19, 2011: "Fathers and Grandfathers to Be Proud Of" Genesis 18:17-19; Romans 4:1-4 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
The Bible gives us many portraits, including those of proper fathers or grandfathers. God plainly states what He expects of us. While no single individual father or grandfather mentioned gives us the total portrait, when we put together the various individuals who exemplify godly fatherhood, a very definite portrait emerges. Among the fathers and grandfathers described in God's Word, therefore, we can learn what kind of a father or grandfather God wants us to be. Among the many biblical dads and grandads, perhaps Abraham stands out, and he has much to teach us. In today's message, we explore the traits which please God. We can thereby learn how, with the held of the Lord, we, as dads and grandads or even future dads and grandads can be the best possible role models possible.
The Bible gives us many portraits, including those of proper fathers or grandfathers. God plainly states what He expects of us. While no single individual father or grandfather mentioned gives us the total portrait, when we put together the various individuals who exemplify godly fatherhood, a very definite portrait emerges. Among the fathers and grandfathers described in God's Word, therefore, we can learn what kind of a father or grandfather God wants us to be. Among the many biblical dads and grandads, perhaps Abraham stands out, and he has much to teach us. In today's message, we explore the traits which please God. We can thereby learn how, with the held of the Lord, we, as dads and grandads or even future dads and grandads can be the best possible role models possible.
June 12, 2011: "Close Encounter With God" Isaiah 6: 1-8 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Uzziah was the tenth king of Judah and he was, for most of his life, a very godly man and never totally departed from the worship of the true God. Under his leadership, the nation became very successful and wealthy. Unfortunately, made heady by his success as king and by his blessings from the Lord, Uzziah made the mistake of offering incense in the temple, contrary to what the Lord had said. He was stricken with leprosy by the Lord for his disobedience, and he died in that leprous condition!
It seems that Isaiah was disturbed by the death of the great king. Uzziah had reigned for 52 years, and his death signalled the end of a time of great prosperity and consistency. For Isaiah and the entire nation, it ushered in a time of uncertainty, change and doubt. Yet, for Isaiah, this became a time of rediscovery. Isaiah may have had his attention focussed on Uzziah, but now that Uzziah has died, his attention was redirected back to the Lord.
In this fascinating story of Isaiah's encounter with the Lord, there are many lessons for us to learn as well Perhaps we need to re-focus on the Lord. This is the subject of today's message.
Uzziah was the tenth king of Judah and he was, for most of his life, a very godly man and never totally departed from the worship of the true God. Under his leadership, the nation became very successful and wealthy. Unfortunately, made heady by his success as king and by his blessings from the Lord, Uzziah made the mistake of offering incense in the temple, contrary to what the Lord had said. He was stricken with leprosy by the Lord for his disobedience, and he died in that leprous condition!
It seems that Isaiah was disturbed by the death of the great king. Uzziah had reigned for 52 years, and his death signalled the end of a time of great prosperity and consistency. For Isaiah and the entire nation, it ushered in a time of uncertainty, change and doubt. Yet, for Isaiah, this became a time of rediscovery. Isaiah may have had his attention focussed on Uzziah, but now that Uzziah has died, his attention was redirected back to the Lord.
In this fascinating story of Isaiah's encounter with the Lord, there are many lessons for us to learn as well Perhaps we need to re-focus on the Lord. This is the subject of today's message.
June 5, 2011: "The Inside Story" 2 Corinthians 5:17 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)When a person receives Christ as Saviour, if it is a genuine conversion and that person becomes a true Christian, we see a number of outward changes. There is a keen interest in the Bible, God’s Word. There is a new and keen interest in church attendance and getting together with God’s people for fellowship, prayer and worship.
There is also a change in lifestyle and often this involves a difference in speech, actions and attitude. These become part of one’s testimony to others and can be readily seen by others.
But in addition to what others can observe about a new Christian, there are vital changes which take place within, where God is at work, and which are the reasons for the outward changes. Unless we know what the Bible says about these dynamic internal actions, we do not fully understand what is taking place on the outside. This is a fascinating part of the Christian life and it is the subject of this morning's message.
There is also a change in lifestyle and often this involves a difference in speech, actions and attitude. These become part of one’s testimony to others and can be readily seen by others.
But in addition to what others can observe about a new Christian, there are vital changes which take place within, where God is at work, and which are the reasons for the outward changes. Unless we know what the Bible says about these dynamic internal actions, we do not fully understand what is taking place on the outside. This is a fascinating part of the Christian life and it is the subject of this morning's message.
May 29, 2011: "God's Description of a Model Church and Model Members" 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
A family, having become Christians recently, has just moved to our area. They have been attending our church as well as a few others, trying to decide where they should make their church home. They are sincere and in earnest and want to be fed spiritually from God's Word, ministered to, and want to find a place of service and fellowship. They also want to find fellow believers who are good role models and to whom they can look for examples of how Christians should live.
What can they use for a model church, and model members? What kind of characteristics should they be seeking as indicators that they are where God wants them? Does the Bible have a kind of guide or model for Christianity and an example of the kind of Christians and church one should look for? Yes, it does. It is found in 1 Thessalonians, Chapter One. That is the subject of today's message. Let's see how close we are to the New Testament.
A family, having become Christians recently, has just moved to our area. They have been attending our church as well as a few others, trying to decide where they should make their church home. They are sincere and in earnest and want to be fed spiritually from God's Word, ministered to, and want to find a place of service and fellowship. They also want to find fellow believers who are good role models and to whom they can look for examples of how Christians should live.
What can they use for a model church, and model members? What kind of characteristics should they be seeking as indicators that they are where God wants them? Does the Bible have a kind of guide or model for Christianity and an example of the kind of Christians and church one should look for? Yes, it does. It is found in 1 Thessalonians, Chapter One. That is the subject of today's message. Let's see how close we are to the New Testament.
May 22, 2011: "Christ on Mission" Luke 4: 14-30 (Dr. Wallace Jorden)
Key Text: Verse 21, "And He began to say to them, 'Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.'"
Jesus overcame the devil through the power of the Holy Spirit and with the same Spirit, He fulfilled the Father's mission through His atoning death, burial and glorious resurrection for us sinners and our sins. Christ sends us out into the world to witness the good news in His name and to continue His mission of making disciples of all nations.
Key Text: Verse 21, "And He began to say to them, 'Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.'"
Jesus overcame the devil through the power of the Holy Spirit and with the same Spirit, He fulfilled the Father's mission through His atoning death, burial and glorious resurrection for us sinners and our sins. Christ sends us out into the world to witness the good news in His name and to continue His mission of making disciples of all nations.
May 8, 2011: "The Amazing Power of a Good Woman" Proverbs 31: 10-31 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
The last chapter of the book of Proverbs gives a picture of a woman's counsel to her son. It is counsel that is wise, good and eloquent with love and yearning. It shows the invaluable advantage of a mother's guidance. In thoughtless and spirited youth, this advice is too often unheeded. Someone has said that there is nowhere in all creation such an mage of utterly unselfish or completely self-sacrificing love as that of a woman for her child. But in addition to love and unselfishness, these words of wisdom are also guided by deep knowledge. A mother often does not know much of the outside world, or the "contemporary scene" and her views may often seem old fashioned to her children. But she knows her sons or daughters. She knows their strengths and weaknesses and she sees his or her faults and early promise. These words have been recorded for us by the Holy Spirit who inspired the human author of Proverbs, King Solomon, son of David. God must have wanted us to hear her words, which describe the amazing power of a good woman. This is our subject his morning.
The last chapter of the book of Proverbs gives a picture of a woman's counsel to her son. It is counsel that is wise, good and eloquent with love and yearning. It shows the invaluable advantage of a mother's guidance. In thoughtless and spirited youth, this advice is too often unheeded. Someone has said that there is nowhere in all creation such an mage of utterly unselfish or completely self-sacrificing love as that of a woman for her child. But in addition to love and unselfishness, these words of wisdom are also guided by deep knowledge. A mother often does not know much of the outside world, or the "contemporary scene" and her views may often seem old fashioned to her children. But she knows her sons or daughters. She knows their strengths and weaknesses and she sees his or her faults and early promise. These words have been recorded for us by the Holy Spirit who inspired the human author of Proverbs, King Solomon, son of David. God must have wanted us to hear her words, which describe the amazing power of a good woman. This is our subject his morning.
May 1, 2011: "Well-Off Christians Who Have It All" Ephesians 1:3-14 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
The expression "well-off" usually refers to people who are financially comfortable or rich. It suggests affluence, more than enough money, seen as successful. They are often looked up to no matter how they acquired their fortunes by those who have less. Unfortunately this state does not necessarily equate with happiness, or even likeableness, because though money may buy desirable material things, of its own it cannot buy peace of mine or lasting joy. Our title for this morning does not refer to being "well-off" in that sense, but something far better. It refers to Christians who are rich in spiritual things, received from God. Most of us do not consider ourselves as "well-off" in the normal sense of the words, but in Ephesians, Chapter 1, which we will study in this message, Paul explains how Christians are rich in the most important areas of life. That is our subject for this morning - "Well-Off Christians Who Have It All!"
The expression "well-off" usually refers to people who are financially comfortable or rich. It suggests affluence, more than enough money, seen as successful. They are often looked up to no matter how they acquired their fortunes by those who have less. Unfortunately this state does not necessarily equate with happiness, or even likeableness, because though money may buy desirable material things, of its own it cannot buy peace of mine or lasting joy. Our title for this morning does not refer to being "well-off" in that sense, but something far better. It refers to Christians who are rich in spiritual things, received from God. Most of us do not consider ourselves as "well-off" in the normal sense of the words, but in Ephesians, Chapter 1, which we will study in this message, Paul explains how Christians are rich in the most important areas of life. That is our subject for this morning - "Well-Off Christians Who Have It All!"
April 24, 2011: "The Empty Tomb: The Meaning and the Message" Matthew 28:1-6 & 1 Peer 1:3-4 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
It was within 50 days of the death of Christ and the apparent collapse of His cause. But the city of Jerusalem rang with the clarion cries of men who, with all boldness declared that Jesus was alive, that God had raised Him from the dead. And they proudly asserted that they were His witnesses. Craven cowards who had run away when Christ was crucified were changed into courageous confessors, ready to lay down their lives for Christ. Uneducated fishermen from Galillee became royal heralds of the King. All who saw and heard them were compelled to acknowledge that something very dramatic had happened to them, which had utterly transformed their lives. When questioned by critics, they had no hesitancy in making reply. They accounted for their new boldness by attributing it to the risen Christ. That is our subject today: the Resurrection of Christ- what it had produced and what it promised. We will also see how it impacts our lives today in 2011.
It was within 50 days of the death of Christ and the apparent collapse of His cause. But the city of Jerusalem rang with the clarion cries of men who, with all boldness declared that Jesus was alive, that God had raised Him from the dead. And they proudly asserted that they were His witnesses. Craven cowards who had run away when Christ was crucified were changed into courageous confessors, ready to lay down their lives for Christ. Uneducated fishermen from Galillee became royal heralds of the King. All who saw and heard them were compelled to acknowledge that something very dramatic had happened to them, which had utterly transformed their lives. When questioned by critics, they had no hesitancy in making reply. They accounted for their new boldness by attributing it to the risen Christ. That is our subject today: the Resurrection of Christ- what it had produced and what it promised. We will also see how it impacts our lives today in 2011.
April 22, 2011: Good Friday (Dr. Wallace Jorden)
Pastor Jorden helps us understand the Cross of Calvary and reflects on the cries of Jesus from that Cross. We are reminded that Jesus was abandoned by God because of His love for us.
Pastor Jorden helps us understand the Cross of Calvary and reflects on the cries of Jesus from that Cross. We are reminded that Jesus was abandoned by God because of His love for us.
April 17, 2011: "Viewing the Cross Through God's Eyes" John 3:16-18 and Romans 5:6-8 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
This month we have been looking at the Cross, as we prepare our hearts for Easter and the Resurrection of Christ. We have seen Christ as the Victim, who He was, who put Him on the Cross, and why He was there. Then we looked at those surrounding the Cross and their attitudes and reactions. We could see the Cross from many other perspectives too, whether it be the angels, demons, or from our own viewpoint. But in today's message, we are going up and try to stand in the heavenlies with the Heavenly Father, and see the Cross from God's perspective. What was His overall plan? How did it work out? What did He see? And what can we learn by viewing the cross through His eyes?
This month we have been looking at the Cross, as we prepare our hearts for Easter and the Resurrection of Christ. We have seen Christ as the Victim, who He was, who put Him on the Cross, and why He was there. Then we looked at those surrounding the Cross and their attitudes and reactions. We could see the Cross from many other perspectives too, whether it be the angels, demons, or from our own viewpoint. But in today's message, we are going up and try to stand in the heavenlies with the Heavenly Father, and see the Cross from God's perspective. What was His overall plan? How did it work out? What did He see? And what can we learn by viewing the cross through His eyes?
April 10, 2011: "An In-Depth Look at the Cross Watchers" Matthew 27:36 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)Last week we examined the Victim of the Cross of Calvary, the Lord Jesus Christ. We noted the kind of person it was Who died, we saw how He died, and then we considered the question of who was responsible for His death. This morning, with the same text in mind, from Mathew 27:36, we are going to examine the various personalities who were involved in watching our dear Saviour die. As we do, we will see how reaction and attitude to Christ's death now is eerily similar to the reaction and attitude of those who were physically there at that time. In addition, we will attempt to look into our own hearts and see what our attitude and reaction would have been if we had been there.
April 3, 2011: "Watching Jesus Die" Matthew 27:36 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
Today, as we near the time when we observe the death of our Saviour, we are going to survey that wondrous cross. We will come to watch Him die on the cross for our sins. This was God's purpose for Him. This was why He came into the world. From the hour that He was born in Bethlehem, down to this hour, He had been walking toward the cross. His life had been filled with the most noble things that ever filled any life. It had been a life absolutely free of any sin; a life lived for others; a life of service. It had been a life in which the mightiest miracles had been performed; a life in which He had preached the most soul-searching sermons ever heard by men. But this was incidental and secondary. Jesus was born to die. Today we are going to stand by and watch Him give His life for lost sinners. It will not be a pretty sight, but one which we all need to consider. If we do so humbly, sincerely and with open hearts, we will never be the same again. Today we are going to watch Jesus die.
Today, as we near the time when we observe the death of our Saviour, we are going to survey that wondrous cross. We will come to watch Him die on the cross for our sins. This was God's purpose for Him. This was why He came into the world. From the hour that He was born in Bethlehem, down to this hour, He had been walking toward the cross. His life had been filled with the most noble things that ever filled any life. It had been a life absolutely free of any sin; a life lived for others; a life of service. It had been a life in which the mightiest miracles had been performed; a life in which He had preached the most soul-searching sermons ever heard by men. But this was incidental and secondary. Jesus was born to die. Today we are going to stand by and watch Him give His life for lost sinners. It will not be a pretty sight, but one which we all need to consider. If we do so humbly, sincerely and with open hearts, we will never be the same again. Today we are going to watch Jesus die.
March 27, 2011: "Provision, Protection, Power and Promise" Psalm 23: 5-6 (Pastor Alex Rockwell) (Third and Final in Series)
So far in this wonderful much loved and familiar Psalm, we have seen what Jesus, the Good Shepherd, has made available to us, the sheep of His pasture. There is rest, refreshment and restoration. There is counsel, courage, and comfort. Now, in our final lesson this morning, we will rejoice in the truth that we are also offered provision, protection, power and promise. As we probe into these last two verses, we will seek to go below the surface and make applications in our Christian lives as we see these same truths repeated over and over again in other passages of God's Word.
So far in this wonderful much loved and familiar Psalm, we have seen what Jesus, the Good Shepherd, has made available to us, the sheep of His pasture. There is rest, refreshment and restoration. There is counsel, courage, and comfort. Now, in our final lesson this morning, we will rejoice in the truth that we are also offered provision, protection, power and promise. As we probe into these last two verses, we will seek to go below the surface and make applications in our Christian lives as we see these same truths repeated over and over again in other passages of God's Word.
March 20, 2011: "Counsel, Courage and Comfort" Psalm 23: 2-4 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
(Second in Series)
As our kind heavenly Father watches us from above, it is encouraging to know that He knows just what we need in our daily lives. Because He is the Omniscient One and knows everything about us, He watches as we struggle with our need for direction in our lives. He hears us when we cry out, "What shall I do?" and He is our counsel. He sees us when in times of danger and fear of what might happen, as we cry out "Lord where are you?" He is always there to provide us with the courage we need and assuring us, "I will never leave you or forsake you." Then, when we are broken and need healing and solace, as our Shepherd, He provides us with comfort, because He is the God of all comfort. These three promises is the subject of today's message.
(Second in Series)
As our kind heavenly Father watches us from above, it is encouraging to know that He knows just what we need in our daily lives. Because He is the Omniscient One and knows everything about us, He watches as we struggle with our need for direction in our lives. He hears us when we cry out, "What shall I do?" and He is our counsel. He sees us when in times of danger and fear of what might happen, as we cry out "Lord where are you?" He is always there to provide us with the courage we need and assuring us, "I will never leave you or forsake you." Then, when we are broken and need healing and solace, as our Shepherd, He provides us with comfort, because He is the God of all comfort. These three promises is the subject of today's message.
March 13, 2011: "God's Promises in Psalm 23" Psalm 23: 1-3 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
We live in a world of want. We want pleasure, happiness, success, friends, appreciation, love and so much more. For many, life is a wilderness of want. But into that wilderness walks the Son of God, the Great Shepherd, the Good Shepherd, the Chief Shepherd. He offers to give us satisfaction, not for all of our wants, but for our needs. King David, the author of the 23rd Psalm, says "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." And then, in six short verses, he is inspired by the Holy Spirit, to present the promises of God to a needy world. This greatly beloved Psalm will be the subject to consider today and for the next two weeks.
We live in a world of want. We want pleasure, happiness, success, friends, appreciation, love and so much more. For many, life is a wilderness of want. But into that wilderness walks the Son of God, the Great Shepherd, the Good Shepherd, the Chief Shepherd. He offers to give us satisfaction, not for all of our wants, but for our needs. King David, the author of the 23rd Psalm, says "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." And then, in six short verses, he is inspired by the Holy Spirit, to present the promises of God to a needy world. This greatly beloved Psalm will be the subject to consider today and for the next two weeks.
March 6, 2011: "I AM The True Vine" John 15 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
When Jesus says I am the true vine, He is speaking in figurative language. He is not literally a vine with branches coming off Him and fruit hanging on Him, any more than He is literally bread or a door. Rather, Jesus is drawing a figure that was very familiar to these Jewish disciples, familiar because vines were a common part of the landscape and of the farming of that day. There were many vineyards in Judea. The disciples would easily be able to grasp the truth of which Jesus spoke when He used this figure. When Jesus calls Himself the vine, He is telling us that He and His people are one living organism. Christ is the main vine and His people make up the branches joined to Him. He wants us to see how important this fruit-bearing is from the viewpoint of what the Father does as the Husbandman, or Vine-dresser, that is, the One who cares for the vine and its branches. That is the subject of today's message.
When Jesus says I am the true vine, He is speaking in figurative language. He is not literally a vine with branches coming off Him and fruit hanging on Him, any more than He is literally bread or a door. Rather, Jesus is drawing a figure that was very familiar to these Jewish disciples, familiar because vines were a common part of the landscape and of the farming of that day. There were many vineyards in Judea. The disciples would easily be able to grasp the truth of which Jesus spoke when He used this figure. When Jesus calls Himself the vine, He is telling us that He and His people are one living organism. Christ is the main vine and His people make up the branches joined to Him. He wants us to see how important this fruit-bearing is from the viewpoint of what the Father does as the Husbandman, or Vine-dresser, that is, the One who cares for the vine and its branches. That is the subject of today's message.
February 27, 2011: "I AM The Way, The Truth and The Life" John 14:6 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
The Gospel of John was specifically written to prove that Jesus is the Son of God and that by believing, we might have life through His name (John 20:31). His I AM statements were each a proof of His divinity, for they proclaimed Him to be that which only God could be, "Bread of Life", "Light of the World", "The Door", "The Good Shepherd", and "The Resurrection and the Life". Now, in John 14, we see an intimate moment in the life of Jesus and the disciples. In view of His coming death on the cross and His separation from His disciples, He prepares them and offers comfort, as He says, "Let not your heart be troubled." He tells them of a place being prepared for them, and promises to return again. When Thomas says, "Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?", Jesus makes another of His famous I AM statements with the words, "I AM the way, the truth and the life". That wonderful announcement is the subject of today's message.
The Gospel of John was specifically written to prove that Jesus is the Son of God and that by believing, we might have life through His name (John 20:31). His I AM statements were each a proof of His divinity, for they proclaimed Him to be that which only God could be, "Bread of Life", "Light of the World", "The Door", "The Good Shepherd", and "The Resurrection and the Life". Now, in John 14, we see an intimate moment in the life of Jesus and the disciples. In view of His coming death on the cross and His separation from His disciples, He prepares them and offers comfort, as He says, "Let not your heart be troubled." He tells them of a place being prepared for them, and promises to return again. When Thomas says, "Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?", Jesus makes another of His famous I AM statements with the words, "I AM the way, the truth and the life". That wonderful announcement is the subject of today's message.
February 20, 2011: "I AM The Resurrection and The Life" John 11: 25-26 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
In this chapter, Jesus said one of the most marvelous things ever spoken by anyone when He said, "I am the resurrection and the life." He was saying that those who believed in Him, even if they were dead, like Lazarus, would be again brought back to life. What about the believers who lie asleep in graves all over the world? When Jesus comes again, He will raise them up. "The dead in Christ shall rise first." What about those living? He said they would never die. He does not mean that they would not experience physical death. If the Lord tarries in His coming, all of us will die. But those who believe in Him will not die eternally. The second death has no power over us. These great words of Jesus give us the great hope, that as Job said many years before, "I know that my Redeemer lives." And because He lives, we shall also live. That is our wonderful subject this morning.
In this chapter, Jesus said one of the most marvelous things ever spoken by anyone when He said, "I am the resurrection and the life." He was saying that those who believed in Him, even if they were dead, like Lazarus, would be again brought back to life. What about the believers who lie asleep in graves all over the world? When Jesus comes again, He will raise them up. "The dead in Christ shall rise first." What about those living? He said they would never die. He does not mean that they would not experience physical death. If the Lord tarries in His coming, all of us will die. But those who believe in Him will not die eternally. The second death has no power over us. These great words of Jesus give us the great hope, that as Job said many years before, "I know that my Redeemer lives." And because He lives, we shall also live. That is our wonderful subject this morning.
February 13, 2011: "I AM The Good Shepherd" John 10: 11-29 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
As we continue this series of messages on the I AMs of Jesus in the gospel of John, we now come to His fourth claim where He tells us that He is the Good Shepherd. Those of use who have trusted Him as our personal Saviour are the flock. In this passage we will see that the Good Shepherd has not only given His life for us, but He promises unconditionally never to abandon us even though we often fail to live the way we should. We may stray from Him and go our own ways, but He remains our Good Shepherd. This morning, Pastor Alex takes a closer look at this wonderful relationship between the Good Shepherd and His sheep.
As we continue this series of messages on the I AMs of Jesus in the gospel of John, we now come to His fourth claim where He tells us that He is the Good Shepherd. Those of use who have trusted Him as our personal Saviour are the flock. In this passage we will see that the Good Shepherd has not only given His life for us, but He promises unconditionally never to abandon us even though we often fail to live the way we should. We may stray from Him and go our own ways, but He remains our Good Shepherd. This morning, Pastor Alex takes a closer look at this wonderful relationship between the Good Shepherd and His sheep.
February 6, 2011: Guest speaker, Alex Muir, shared about his mission trips and outreach in Bolivia, delivering portable radios to the native groups living in the mountain villages. These solar powered radios deliver eight hours of evangelist messages and Bible studies each day. Note that at the 35 minute point of this message, Alex shared with a slide show for approximately nine minutes, and gives comments on what he is showing for that length of time.
January 30, 2011: "That Old Time Religion is Good Enough For Everyone" Romans 1:16 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
The word 'religion' describes a system of faith or worship. It is commonly used in our society, but found just five times in the Bible. The word 'religious' is found just twice. In all cases, these words are found only in the New Testament. The word 'religion' has come to have negative connotations today because of the hypocrisy of many who profess to be 'religious'. In addition, some have fallen into the error of thinking religion or 'being religious' will take them into heaven. The Bible describes one kind of religion that is vain or useless. But it also speaks of a religion that is pure. In this message, Pastor Alex shows that there is a religion that is real, that transforms lives, and is in full agreement with God's Word. It is sometimes referred to as 'the old time religion'.
Note: Many people in the congregation dressed appropriately for this "Old Fashioned Sunday". We'll include some photos for you!
The word 'religion' describes a system of faith or worship. It is commonly used in our society, but found just five times in the Bible. The word 'religious' is found just twice. In all cases, these words are found only in the New Testament. The word 'religion' has come to have negative connotations today because of the hypocrisy of many who profess to be 'religious'. In addition, some have fallen into the error of thinking religion or 'being religious' will take them into heaven. The Bible describes one kind of religion that is vain or useless. But it also speaks of a religion that is pure. In this message, Pastor Alex shows that there is a religion that is real, that transforms lives, and is in full agreement with God's Word. It is sometimes referred to as 'the old time religion'.
Note: Many people in the congregation dressed appropriately for this "Old Fashioned Sunday". We'll include some photos for you!
January 23, 2011 "I AM the Door" John 10: 1-9 (Pastor Alex Rockwell)
This wonderful claim of Jesus is one which could only be made by One Who is God. He offers something which only God could provide, and which every single person needs. In this text, we have, in a few short verses, the promise of the blessing of salvation, the way it is provided, the condition for entrance and the blessings which accompany this promise.
This wonderful claim of Jesus is one which could only be made by One Who is God. He offers something which only God could provide, and which every single person needs. In this text, we have, in a few short verses, the promise of the blessing of salvation, the way it is provided, the condition for entrance and the blessings which accompany this promise.
