Speaker
403 messages · 2015–2026 · 215 series
All messages
The Evidence of Abiding
This series of five messages, taken together, provides a balanced exploration of abiding that is both deeply devotional and firmly rooted in the text of John 15. This powerful portion of Scripture helps us to understand that "abiding" is not some kind of mystical concept but an ordinary, life-giving pattern of daily fellowship with Christ.
The Assurance of Abiding
This series of five messages, taken together, provides a balanced exploration of abiding that is both deeply devotional and firmly rooted in the text of John 15. This powerful portion of Scripture helps us to understand that "abiding" is not some kind of mystical concept but an ordinary, life-giving pattern of daily fellowship with Christ.
The Communion of Abiding
This series of five messages, taken together, provides a balanced exploration of abiding that is both deeply devotional and firmly rooted in the text of John 15. This powerful portion of Scripture helps us to understand that "abiding" is not some kind of mystical concept but an ordinary, life-giving pattern of daily fellowship with Christ.
The Conversation of Abiding
This series of five messages, taken together, provides a balanced exploration of abiding that is both deeply devotional and firmly rooted in the text of John 15, helping us to understand that "abiding" is not some kind of mystical concept but an ordinary, life-giving pattern of daily fellowship with Christ.
The Foundation of Abiding
This series of five messages, taken together, provides a balanced exploration of abiding that is both deeply devotional and firmly rooted in the text of John 15, helping us to understand that "abiding" is not some kind of mystical concept but an ordinary, life-giving pattern of daily fellowship with Christ.
We have previously studied Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and intercession. A natural "next movement" is: What does Christ's finished work produce in His people in the world? Specifically, what is the work of the Spirit in the life of the believer?
We have previously studied Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and intercession. A natural "next movement" is: What does Christ's finished work produce in His people in the world? Specifically, what is the work of the Spirit in the life of the believer?
We have previously studied Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and intercession. A natural "next movement" is: What does Christ's finished work produce in His people in the world? Specifically, what is the work of the Spirit in the life of the believer?
We have previously studied Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and intercession. A natural "next movement" is: What does Christ's finished work produce in His people in the world? Specifically, what is the work of the Spirit in the life of the believer?
We have previously studied Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and intercession. A natural "next movement" is: What does Christ's finished work produce in His people in the world? Specifically, what is the work of the Spirit in the life of the believer?
We have previously studied Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and intercession. A natural "next movement" is: What does Christ's finished work produce in His people in the world? Specifically, what is the work of the Spirit in the life of the believer?
We have previously studied Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and intercession. A natural "next movement" is: What does Christ's finished work produce in His people in the world? Specifically, what is the work of the Spirit in the life of the believer?
We have previously studied Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and intercession. A natural "next movement" is: What does Christ's finished work produce in His people in the world?
In Acts 2, Peter stands before a crowd in Jerusalem, many of whom had witnessed or at least heard about Jesus' crucifixion just weeks earlier, and he makes a bold, unmistakable claim: Jesus is alive, not just spiritually, but physically; He is undeniably alive!
The ascension of Christ is one of the most profound, yet often overlooked moments, in the life of our Lord. We tend to dwell, rightly, on the cross and the resurrection; however, the ascension of Christ is treated more as a footnote or an after thought. It is the crowning movement of Christ's eathly ministry and a decisive act for our salvation.
This Scripture opens not in triumph but in uncertainty. The resurrection has happened. The tomb is empty. Jesus has appeared to His disciples on two occasions, and yet here they are again ... fishing. In spite of everything, Peter gets a second chance.
There are moments in life when everything we believed seemed certain suddenly feels shattered. Expectations collapse. Hope grows dim. Faith feels fragile. In these moments, we need to remember that the Risen Christ is with us on the road, no matter how long the journey.
This Scripture shows us something profound: the resurrected Christ does not merely inform faith—He inspires it. He does not merely invite worship—He compels it.
At Christ's "Triumphal Entry," the crowd waved palm branches and spread their coats, welcoming the New King. How long before their cheers turned to jeers and shouts of "Crucify Him!" They mistook His arrival for that of a "Conquering King," not a "Suffering Saviour."
One of the most important questions in life is not "Do you worship?" but "Who & how do you worship?”
One of the most important questions in life is not "Do you worship?" but "Who & how do you worship?"
One of the most important questions in life is not "Do you worship?", but "What do you worship?"
Paul writes to a church that was active, gifted, and serving but deeply divided. They gathered for the Lord's Supper, but their worship had become careless, self-centered, and fractured. What is "True Worship" as it applies to the celebration of the Lord's Table?
Jesus said, "The Father is seeking true worshippers who will worship Him in spirit and truth." The ultimate priority in the believer's life is to worship the true and living God. But what is true worship?
Jesus said, "The Father is seeking true worshippers who will worship Him in spirit and truth." The ultimate priority in the believer's life is to worship the true and living God. But what is true worship?
In this portion of Scripture, Paul tells us that God desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. That should be our desire, too. But what can we do to help others find the truth? We consider the importance of praying for the lost.
Daniel's intercessory prayer for Jerusalem, in Daniel 9, is one of Scripture's greatest examples of prayer. In this prayer, Daniel identifies himself with the sin of his people, confesses that sin, acknowledges God's sovereignty and love, and asks God for His mercy.
We live in an anxious age. Worry has become the background noise of modern life. We worry about health, finances, children, the future, and the state of the world. Yet Paul writes this letter to the Philippians, not from a peaceful pastor's retreat, but from prison. He offers an invitation to prayer and to peace.
When Jesus taught on prayer in Matthew 6, He was not offering a technique to master, but a relationship to enter. The Lord's prayer is not merely a prayer to be memorized; it is a pattern to be lived.
God has extended a gracious invitation for His children to approach His Throne of Grace in prayer. How, then, should we respond as it pertains to the practice of prayer?
We live in a world constantly asking, "Is Christ enough?" Enough for meaning, purpose, salvation, and daily life. Today, we consider the answer to this important question.
We consider how a true believer lives in response to who Jesus is.
The "I AM" statements of Scripture describe Christ's sufficiendy for every need.
Jesus, our "Everlasting Father", will always provide a loving Father's tender care for His children, both now and forever.
Jesus, our "Wonderful Counsellor", brings divine wisdom, understanding, and guidance into the darkness of our world and our lives.
Every Advent season, the church sings ancient truths through carols that many of us have known since childhood. Yet these songs are more than tradition—they are theological treasures that proclaim the heart of the gospel: God has entered our world. God has come near. God is with us.
There are moments in life when God brings us great victories; giants fall, doors open, prayers are answered, and we step into seasons we once only dreamed of. However, sometimes what happens after the victory is harder to navigate than the battle itself.
Facing giants is an intimidating experience. You need the right equipment to face these enormous challenges. God may be saying to you right now, "All I ask of you is five smooth stones and a sling of faith. I'll take it from there... just trust Me.
Remembering rightly leads to thanksgiving. We give thanks for those who sacrificed so we could live in peace, and we thank God who sacrificed His Son so we could live eternally. Gratitude transforms remembrance from mourning into meaning.
This portion of Scripture reminds us that God sees past our outward circumstances and into our hearts. When others overlook us, God notices. When we feel hidden or unimportant, He may be preparing us for something greater. David's quiet faithfulness in tending sheep became the foundation for leading the nation.
This portion of Scripture describes the end of King Saul's Dynasty and the beginning of David's Anointed Kingdom.
This portion of Scripture describes the greatest example of "grace and gratitude" in the entire Old Testament.
In a world that is out of control, believers need a steadfast trust in the sovereignty of God. This trust is especially important when pain, loss, and persecution begin to affect the well-being of every believer. Our confidence in the Sovereign power and authority of our Great God is especially important when we do battle with the dark forces of evil. Scripture says, "We wrestle not against flesh and blood but principalities and powers of darkness."
In a world that is out of control, believers need a relentless trust in the sovereignty of God. This trust is especially important when pain, loss, and persecution begin to affect the well-being of every believer.
In a world that is out of control, believers need a relentless trust in the sovereignty of God.
Jesus perfectly fulfills the qualifications for the kind of high priest that we all need.
In 2 Corinthians 1:3, God is called the “Father of compassion” and the “God of all comfort.” In His mercy and love, God is eager to provide comfort to His children in any circumstances. Whatever the trial we face, our Heavenly Father knows the situation and offers comfort as needed
What does it mean in practical terms to be "a new creation" in Christ? Do you ever feel like you are still the "old creation," much like warmed-up leftovers? We consider what to expect in this journey towards "newness" and "wholeness"... in Christ.
Human experience includes not only heart-rending grief but also challenging mental health issues. The Bible provides real-life examples of God's chosen servants suffering from deep despair and hopelessness. Does Scripture provide any hope for the one who has lost all hope? It does indeed!
Human experience includes grief, sorrow, and heartbreak. However, Scripture tells us that we do not grieve the way others grieve. We grieve, but not as those who have no hope. God has a divine purpose even in our times of deep, unyielding grief.
To determine if one is saved, a believer must look for evidence of genuine faith and a changed life, rather than relying solely on a past decision or feeling. This involves a combination of belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, a confession of that belief, and a resulting transformation in one's thoughts, desires, and actions.
The church is not like a family; it is a family. The truth is we all need church because we all need family. Every true believer is part of God's "forever family".
This text deals with the earthly reign of Christ and His judgment on those who are alive at His second coming and the inauguration of His millennial kingdom.
Does the fear of death keep you from truly living? Knowing that God awaits us at the end of our earthly lives can give us unmatched peace and comfort – not only in death but for our lifetime. We look at what the Bible says about death, fear of death, and what it says about confidence in the afterlife.
One evening, Christ encountered a religious leader by the name of Nicodemus. An honest conversation ensued, and Jesus challenged him to give up his external religion and discover new life through spiritual rebirth. In essence, Jesus said, "Don't be surprised when I say you must be born again." Spiritual rebirth changes the believer from the inside out.
The profound hope of every believer is a permanent residency in God's eternal home. Jesus said "I am going to prepare a place for you. When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am." However, most believers have little knowledge or understanding of what heaven is actually like. This study will explain some of the questions many have about God's eternal home.
As believers, our hope is secure because we have a "Great High Priest" who understands our human frailty. He is the Christ, our Saviour, who was resurrected from the grave and lives eternally to make intercession for those who have placed their trust in Him.
Without the ascension, Christ’s nativity, passion, and resurrection would have been incomplete. The ascension is the defining moment that marked the end of Jesus’ personal ministry on earth, and the beginning of the Great Commission.
Christ's "Messianic Mission" was to suffer and die for the sins of the world and be resurrected on the third day. In this message, we see that, like the disciples, we cannot understand that Jesus is a resurrected Saviour until the grace of God opens our eyes.
Scripture says, "If we confess with our mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in our hearts that God raised Him from the dead we shall be saved." In this message, we see that, like the disciples, we cannot understand that Jesus is a resurrected Saviour until the grace of God opens our eyes.
Some people celebrate Palm Sunday out of a sense of obligation or nostalgia, while others view the occasion with skepticism. It is essential to understand the details of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem can only be truly viewed through the lens of believing faith. Like the disciples, we cannot understand that Jesus is Messiah and King until the grace of God opens our eyes.
We are currently threatened by international trade tariffs and a world economy that is in chaos. We again consider what the Bible says about the future of our global economy and Biblical principles for managing our money in uncertain times.
We are currently threatened by international trade tariffs and a world economy that is in chaos. Again we consider what the Bible says about the future of our global economy and the ultimate world order.
We are in the midst of international trade tariffs and a world economy that is in chaos. Again we consider what the Bible says about the future of our global economy.
We are in the midst of international trade tariffs and a global economy that is in chaos. We consider what the Bible says about this turbulent period in human history.
One of the most difficult challenges we all face, is managing our thought life. Our minds are constantly being bombarded by worldly ideas, fleshly ideas, and demonically inspired ideas. How do we control our thought life? Paul offers brilliant counsel to help us in this daily struggle.
One of the most difficult challenges we all face, is managing our thought life. Our minds are constantly being bombarded by worldly ideas, fleshly ideas, and demonically inspired ideas. How do we control our thought life? Paul offers brilliant counsel to help us in this daily struggle.
Jesus has extended an open invitation to discover a permanent rest through His grace. Acknowledging one's spiritual bankruptcy is a prerequisite to enter this rest. We consider the five essential elements in a genuine invitation to receive God's gift of salvation.
Jesus has extended an open invitation to discover a permanent rest through His grace. Acknowledging one's spiritual bankruptcy is a prerequisite to enter this rest.
Every believer needs to be assured that our Sovereign God and Mighty Saviour has promised His unwavering care and gracious provision in troubled times.
Every believer needs to understand the nature of the Church and their relationship to the corporate Body of Christ. This message explains the Biblical characteristics of a healthy church.
Every believer needs to understand the nature of the Church and their relationship to the corporate Body of Christ. This message emphasizes the importance of being connected and committed to a local church.
Christmas is a special time of the year when we focus on the Advent of the Christ Child. He is God's ultimate gift of love. I n this message, we consider the extent of His love, the application of His love, and the purpose of His love.
Christmas is a special time of the year when we focus on the Advent of the Christ Child. He is God's Supreme Revelation. Scripture reveals His Preparation, His Presentation, and His Preeminence.
Christmas is a special time of the year when we focus on the Advent of the Christ Child. It is a season of remembrance and gratitude for all that God the Father has provided through the Son. For all those who have trusted in Jesus for their salvation, they are the grateful recipients of His "Hope", "Peace", "Love" and "Joy".
Christmas is a special time of the year when we focus on the Advent of the Christ Child. It is a season of remembrance and gratitude for all that God the Father has provided through the Son. For all those who have trusted in Jesus for their salvation, they are the grateful recipients of His "Hope", "Peace", "Love" and "Joy".
Christmas is a special time of the year when we focus on the Advent of the Christ Child. It is a season of remembrance and gratitude for all that God the Father has provided through the Son. For all those who have trusted in Jesus for their salvation, they are the grateful recipients of His "Hope", "Peace", "Love" and "Joy".
Scripture provides a prophetic picture of God's divine plan for the culmination of human history. It also describes "Our Eternal Home", which is a literal, heavenly home for all believers. We consider the nature of "Our Eternal Home" and why it is important in the fulfillment of God's eternal plan.
Scripture provides a prophetic picture of God's divine plan for the culmination of human history. It also describes "The Millennial Reign of Christ," which is the literal, temporal rule of Christ on this earth for one thousand years. We consider the nature of "the Millennium" and why it is important in the fulfillment of God's eternal plan.
Scripture provides a prophetic picture of God's divine plan for the culmination of human history. It also describes "The Coming Tribulation", which is the outpouring of God's wrath on the face of the earth. We consider the nature of the Tribulation and why it is important in the fulfillment of God's eternal plan.
Scripture provides a prophetic picture of God's divine plan for the culmination of human history. It also reveals the "man of lawlessness", who is none other than the "anti-christ". We consider the insidious role he plays in world events.
We live in a dangerous world where many are fearful for their very survival. Scripture provides a prophetic picture of God's divine plan for the culmination of human history. He also provides the reassurance we need when all temporal security is lost.
We are all travelers on a journey toward the end of this age and beyond, into eternity. Scripture provides a prophetic picture of God's divine plan for the culmination of human history. God's Word also describes our final destination.
The psalmist describes the most profound reason for gratitude ... a loving Shepherd who cares for all our needs.
In the closing verses of Psalm 139, David zealously prayed for the destruction of the wicked and then submitted himself to divine scrutiny as well. Like David, Christians should hate evil and long for its eradication. Vengeance, however, isn’t our responsibility. God alone judges righteously. Only when we understand His holiness and purity will we realize how lost and sinful we truly are; only then will we place our trust in Jesus, and be saved by grace from God’s wrath.
Where were we before we were born, and where will we go after we die? In Psalm 139, David provides the answer to these questions, proclaiming that we are the result of God’s creative handiwork, “fearfully and wonderfully made.” Not only this, but God has also designed us with purpose and has determined our days. Given David’s response to these truths, let's remember that the almighty God of design and determination is worthy of our praise, gratitude, and trust.
This study reminds us that there’s no safer place to put our trust than in Almighty God, who doesn’t love from a distance but the One who knows us also walks with us. Jesus said, “I am with you always. I will never leave you or forsake you."
The first six verses of Psalm 139 convey the staggering truth that the Lord knows us better than we know ourselves. He knows what we do, where we go, what we think, what we say, all that we long for, and all that we need. Today’s study reminds us that there’s no safer place to put our trust than in Almighty God, who doesn’t love from a distance but searches us and knows us, sending His Son to lay down His life for us in order that we may also know Him.
Paul did not hide his vulnerability to the Enemy’s accusations, to pride, or even to depression. In his letters, however, the apostle’s main concern was not for his personal battles. Instead, he continually asked his readers to pray that he might have the boldness to proclaim the Gospel. He understood that the key to his ministry relied on the prayers of God’s people. The emphasis in this message is to pattern our prayers after Paul’s.
In Ephesians 2, Paul reminded his readers of who they once were, what God has done, and what follows from it. Paul explains that from God’s initiating work to the believer’s response, salvation hinges upon the phrase, “In Christ Jesus.” When we entered into this vital relationship with Christ, our identity was hidden in Him, and now we rest in His complete security, and our hearts and minds are directed by His love.
Isaiah 41 presents a sorry picture of God’s people turning to idols instead of to Him; a pattern that occurs throughout the Bible and into the present day. Our idols, however, can’t bear our burdens. In this message, I want to encourage you to admit your weakness and allow God’s strength to sustain you. If we admit that we cannot be strong on our own, we will find that God honors His promises to be with us and strengthen us.
Jairus’ situation seemed hopeless; his daughter died before he could reach Jesus for help. Jesus instructed him to keep on trusting Him and then brought the young girl back to life. We, too, may face seemingly hopeless difficulties. In today's message, I challenge you not to allow circumstances to overturn your faith, but to use your faith in Christ as the basis upon which you face your circumstances.
The Christian life can be like a winding path marked by seasons of doubt, despair, and worry. We examine Jesus' own words on the foolishness of worry as recounted in Matthew 6:25-34. Also, we return to Peter’s first letter, written to dispersed believers which encouraged his readers to stand firm in God’s grace. In this message, we examine the concluding verses of Chapter 5, acknowledging that while believers will most certainly experience suffering in this life, it is God Himself who promises to meet us in our need, restore our brokenness, supply peace instead of worry, and keep us safe and secure in Him.
The Christian life can be like a winding path marked by seasons of doubt, despair, and weakness. Peter’s first letter, written to dispersed believers in what is now Turkey, encouraged readers to stand firm in God’s grace. In this message, we examine the concluding verses of chapter 5, acknowledging that while believers will most certainly experience suffering in this life, it is God Himself who promises to meet us in our need, restore our brokenness, strengthen us in our weakness, and keep us safe and secure in Him.
Everyone experiences disappointment or sadness to some degree. In Psalm 13, David demonstrated what it means to trust God in tough times. Feeling forgotten, forsaken, sorrowful, and subdued, David cried out for God’s consideration and illumination. As he prayed, his perspective changed, and he was able to rejoice, even though his circumstances remained the same. I want to remind you that when you face difficult times, you must resist self-pity, trusting that God knows what’s best for you and can use even your hard experiences for good.
I would like you to consider the biblical definition of hope, in contrast to the worldly vision of hope. The Bible says that there really is such a thing as true hope, a hope that is sure. As God's children we need to find our hope in the certainty of God's promises not the temporal solutions sought by so many in our world." Key Verse - Romans 5:5 "And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love."
As God’s mouthpiece, Habakkuk declared God’s word to Israel, who were in rebellion. Yet even he was not prepared for God to use a foreign nation to execute judgment on His people. While he questioned God’s purposes, the prophet also listened to God’s response: that the righteous will live by faith. The Lord works salvation for His people through Christ, and one day the earth will be filled with His glory. In this, we can greatly rejoice
Reliance on Christ is crucial in the life of a Christian, yet we like to depend on our abilities instead. In this study, we contrast our modern view of self-reliance with the truths of Scripture. When we face our inadequacies and admit our absolute need for God’s help, we display His glory to those around us.
The commission Christ gave the church is not a responsibility for a few people. Throughout the Bible, it is evident that the Gospel is to be taken to the whole world by the whole church. Yet despite the clarity in Scripture regarding this mandate, some hold lightly to Jesus’ call to make disciples of all nations. Scripture emphasizes that there will be no widespread evangelization unless the work entrusted to us by Jesus is embraced by all believers.
We live in a world of ideas. These ideas, governed by human philosophy, secular culture and the broad sweep of humanism forms the basis of anti-Biblical thought and belief. It is only God's Word which can counteract the poison and deceit of these worldly lies and deception.
What kind of a Church does God desire? Are we that kind of a church? Where do we exhibit faithfulness and where do we need to improve? This study will focus on the characteristics of a healthy church according to God's diagnostics.
The ascension of Christ has been under-emphasized in much of our preaching and teaching. However, the ascension is extremely important in terms of all that Christ came to do and accomplish. This study will explain the tremendous advantages for the believer because of Christ's ascension.
God's great power, the very power which raised Jesus from the dead and empowered His ascension back to glory to take His seat at God's right hand, is given to every believer at the time of salvation and is always available. Consequently, Paul didn't pray that God's power be given to believers but rather that they be aware of the power they already possessed in Christ and utilize it.
It may be one of the most overlooked events in the Bible, but the Ascension is a key element in the Gospel story's completion. After His resurrection, Jesus continued teaching His followers and preparing them for His earthly departure. As His actions demonstrate, Jesus loves to bless His people: His last act on earth was to bless His followers, and He continues to care for us from the Father's right hand.
This portion of Scripture provides further conclusive evidence for the literal bodily resurrection of Christ. As believers, we can rejoice and find peace through this glorious reality.
Many people want to follow Jesus for all the wrong reasons. They want something from Him rather than a life of full surrender. Jesus said, "If anyone would come after Me let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me."
The Church is in doubt about "the Resurrection" so this is an apologetic for a resurrected Christ and resurrected believers.
Our Lord provides a picture of "intimate familiarity" with the Father as He prays for Himself, the Disciples, and all believers. One of the many striking features in this passage is the beginning of Christ's ministry of intercession.
Christ has completed His final instructions to the disciples and now, in His final hours before the crucifixion, He offers a comprehensive prayer for Himself, His Disciples and all Believers.
The night before Christ was crucified He prayed for Himself, for His Disciples and all Believers. What a reassurance to realize that we have a Great High Priest who ever lives to make intercession on our behalf.
When the first Lord's Supper was instituted by Christ, it came with "a promise" and "a prediction". The promise pertained to being reunited in His glorious millennial Kingdom. The prediction addressed the striking of "The Shepherd" and the defection of "The Sheep."
The life changing message of the gospel resides in the power of the cross. God, in His infinite mercy, provided a Saviour who died for our sins, and offered complete forgiveness to all who believe. The repentant believer, not only receives pardon for transgressions, but also the power to be transformed into the likeness of Christ.
Jerusalem is a city at the center of God's prophetic plan for human history. It is a Biblical certainty that the destiny of the world is tied to the future of Jerusalem. One writer said, "Jerusalem is now set to become God's stage for the final drama."
Almost everywhere you look today, people have lost their appetite for God's Word. His truth is undermined, despised and rejected. Even preachers and teachers have lost their confidence in God's all sufficient and authoratitve Word. Now we find ourselves in the midst of a famine, not a lack of food and water, but rather God's divine truth.
We are living in a time when almost any behavior is celebrated, no matter how sinful. Conversely, Biblical truth and spiritual convictions are ridiculed, even attacked. Jesus said that these rebellious attitudes would reach a crescendo before His return.
No matter where you look these days, it appears we are experiencing an irreversible breakdown of the moral and spiritual fabric of society. Individuals, families, and culture itself reflect an increase of ungodliness like at no other time in history. Selfish desire, financial gain, and personal pleasure have replaced all regard for God. The increase of spiritual darkness is another prophetic sign that Christ's return is imminent.
Perhaps nothing is more discouraging in our Christian experience than to watch someone fall away and abandon their faith. Sadly, more "professed" believers seem to be losing their "first love". From family and friends to well-known pastors and Christian leaders, so many have turned away from following Christ. This modern-day apostasy is one of the signs of the end times. Jesus said genuine faith endures until the end (Matt.24). Paul said, "We can be confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in us will perform it until the day of Christ's return (Phil.1:6).
God gave the greatest gift of all, His precious Son. But like any gift, we must believe it and receive it if we are to enjoy the eternal benefits of such a magnanimous gift. The Saviour paid our sin debt in full and promised eternal life to all who "receive" Him.
While it's true that the Biblical narrative tells us a lot about the history and the perspective prophetically regarding the Christ child, the missing part is what was God’s perspective? We know what the shepherds thought; we know what the wise men thought; we know what Mary thought because she says so. We know what Zacharias is thinking because he defines all of that in his song of praise at the end of Luke 1. But the real question about the birth of Jesus Christ is God’s perspective. Let's go back through the epistles and the Old Testament and look at the birth of Christ from the divine perspective. Let's identify, not just a human baby in a manger, but the cosmic reality of who this child really was.
What do people want? They want wise counsel. They want the power to overcome and be victorious. They want eternal life. They want to know there’s life beyond the grave and they want peace in their hearts. These aspirations and inner longings are only fulfilled through the gracious provision of a Saviour. This is the message of Christmas
Many Christians live with an "I think Jesus loves me" mentality. They think they have to earn His love. We need to cultivate an "I know God loves me" mentality. The Christmas story powerfully portrays the beauty of God's love for a lost creation.
with soloist Barbara Gill singing "Rise Again"
A Christmas Kind of Peace
The Christmas Kind of Joy
The Christmas Kind of Love
The Christmas Hope
"Knowing God as Father"
Caution: Prime Time Religious Performance Ahead
Wise Counsel for the Selfish and Strong-Willed
Simple Lessons on Serious Issues
Once again, this sermon recording left off the first 20 minutes. Many apologies!
Simply Put, It Begins from Within
Sorry but the first 5 minutes of this sermon is missing due to a delay in recording.
Shake & Shine
Matthew 5:13-16 Salt and Light 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Qualities of Simple Faith
2 Corinthians 5:7 7 For we live by faith, not by sight.
2 Kings 4:1-7 The Widow’s Olive Oil 4 The wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.” 2 Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” 3 Elisha said, “Go around and ask all your neighbors for empty jars. Don’t ask for just a few. 4 Then go inside and shut the door behind you and your sons. Pour oil into all the jars, and as each is filled, put it to one side.” 5 She left him and shut the door behind her and her sons. They brought the jars to her and she kept pouring. 6 When all the jars were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another one.” But he replied, “There is not a jar left.” Then the oil stopped flowing. 7 She went and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can live on what is left.”
Psalm 73:16-17 21 NIV 16 When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply 17 till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny. 21 When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered,
Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity 4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! 2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. Final Exhortations 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Philippians 4:1-9 Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity 1 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! 2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. Final Exhortations 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Hebrews 13:7-16 7 Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. 8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. 9 Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings. It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace, not by eating ceremonial foods, which is of no benefit to those who do so. 10 We have an altar from which those who minister at the tabernacle have no right to eat. 11 The high priest carries the blood of animals into the Most Holy Place as a sin offering, but the bodies are burned outside the camp. 12 And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood. 13 Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore. 14 For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come. 15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. 16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
Hebrews 10:19-24 “And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day of Christ drawing near.” (V.24)
Hebrews 9:15-22 (NIV) 15 For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant. 16 In the case of a will,[a] it is necessary to prove the death of the one who made it, 17 because a will is in force only when somebody has died; it never takes effect while the one who made it is living. 18 This is why even the first covenant was not put into effect without blood. 19 When Moses had proclaimed every command of the law to all the people, he took the blood of calves, together with water, scarlet wool and branches of hyssop, and sprinkled the scroll and all the people. 20 He said, “This is the blood of the covenant, which God has commanded you to keep.”[b] 21 In the same way, he sprinkled with the blood both the tabernacle and everything used in its ceremonies. 22 In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.
Please note in every text in the book of Hebrews, no matter who is being addressed, the theme is always the absolute supremacy of Christ. If he talking to believers who are still hanging on to Judaism, he says, “You don’t need the rituals and traditions. Christ is sufficient.” If he is speaking with unbelievers who have had enough exposure to the gospel to be intellectually convinced, he is saying, “Come on, put your faith in him. Rest in Christ. He’s sufficient.” If he talking to the sceptical, unconvinced, non-believing Jews, he is offering the same message, “Christ is superior to your religious traditions. He is supreme. He is sufficient.” While the message is always the same, the rhetoric may be stated in different ways depending on the particular audience. In summary, the theme for the book of Hebrews is the perfect Christ, supreme, superior and all sufficient. We need nothing in addition to Jesus Christ.
To review, in chapter 1 the author demonstrated to his readers, who were tempted to leave Christ and go back to Judaism, how Jesus is God’s final word to us. As the Son of God, He is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature. He upholds all things by the word of His power (1:3). He is seated at the right hand of the Majesty on high, supreme over all angelic beings (1:4-14). After a brief exhortation not to drift (2:1-4), he shows that Jesus is not only the eternal Son of God, He is also fully human. God’s original intent was for man to rule over the earth, but that was hindered by the fall (2:5-8). By His incarnation and death for our sins, Jesus recovered what we lost in the fall (2:9-10). As the Captain of our salvation, Jesus became man in order to bring us to God (2:11-15). Our text for this week continues the theme of Jesus’ humanity, showing us why He became a man: Jesus became a man so that as our high priest, He could offer Himself for our sins and come to our aid when we are tempted. Looking forward to sharing more thoughts about our all-sufficient Christ.
Part 2
This portion gives us a glimpse of the majesty of the Son. It summons our worship of the One who came from God who is eternally God. We honor Him as the One whose name is above every name. Jesus is the preeminent One, who is eternal before and after creation, and the One whose destiny is sovereignty. To know Christ in His fullness is to know the Christ who fills without measure. Jesus said, “If anyone is thirsty let him come to Me and drink .... I will cause rivers of living water to flow from his inmost being!”
Believing and not Seeing
Death Defeated
Part 2
The Preeminence of Christ
The Christmas Promise
Christmas Eve Service
The Extent of God’s Love
Finding Joy in a Troubled World
More like Jesus
More Like Jesus
More like Jesus
More Like Jesus
How to Inherit Eternal Life
More like Jesus
More like Jesus
More like Jesus
Christ teaches on dicipleship
More like Jesus
You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and your neighbour as yourself
Introducing Spiritual Formation
What is the Church?
Why the Cross is Crucial to Our Worship
The Full Extent of Christ's Sacrifice
A Closer Look at The Facts
Victorious Living through Worship & Praise
Vanquish Death with the Power of Life
7 characteristics of an effective prayer life
by Telling the Truth
A Son is Given
Easter
Paul has already, in the first two chapters, told us what a pastor does. He has indicated what a pastor is. He has discussed what a pastor says. But now in chapter 3 Paul tells us what a pastor feels. In other words, what a pastor does and what he says and what he is is the product of what he feels. We are gazing deeply into the heart of a man who must give an account to God for how he shepherds the sheep.
Two of Paul's earliest letters are 1 and 2 Thessalonians. These two letters were written to real people who were experiencing real problems in a world that was not friendly to their Christian faith. We can easily identify with these people because we live in a similar world and face many of the same problems. Once you understand the background, the struggles, and the blessing of these two letters, you will see how current and practical they are.
The Gift of Peace
A series of messages focused on the meaning of the Christmas story.
What did Jesus actually teach about the last days? This is an eschatological perspective of Christ's teaching from Mark 13.
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