Read Jude 24-25.  It informs us that God has had dominion and authority from the beginning.  But what does having authority really mean? 

Should we respect Scripture’s silence? Our salvation depends on it. “Speak where the Bible speaks; be silent where it is silent” urges authority for all religious practice. We grasp silence in life—the appliance analogy proves it. God expects reason. Scripture teaches this principle (Rom. 15:4); consider 1 Chronicles 13:1–13 carefully.
 

During Jesus’ final week, He enters Jerusalem, cleanses the temple, heals the blind and lame, and withers a fig tree. Confronting Him there, Jewish leaders ask: “By what authority, and who gave it?” Jesus exposes the issue: every religious practice derives from only two sources—God or man alone (Matthew 21:23–27).

Whenever a particular religious group’s beliefs are examined, it is done to see whether these teachings are in agreement with the Word of God.  As with many faiths, some of its members may be unaware of what that religious group actually teaches.

 Beatitudes:

Jesus’ third Beatitude—“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth”—follows poverty of spirit and godly mourning: emptied, then contrite. Meekness isn’t weakness; it’s strength under God’s rule. First-century Jews expected a militant Messiah against Rome, yet Christ taught true power comes through humble submission, overturning their assumptions entirely.

Continuing the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:6 teaches: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” Our world’s problem is sin; the remedy is righteous living. Righteousness exalts a nation (Proverbs 14:34). Jesus calls for intense desire—like first-century hunger and thirst—that shapes life and satisfies fully.

Now, let’s dive into the Beatitude from Matthew chapter 5, verse 7. We should remember the first four Beatitudes we discussed: being poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, and those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. All of these reflect the attitudes of individuals in the Kingdom of God. The Beatitude we're focusing on today emphasizes action; it highlights what those in the Kingdom should be doing. It states, "Blessed are merciful, for they shall obtain mercy."

What is Biblical Belief?

So many in the religious world today believe, practice and teach that personal mental acceptance in who Jesus Christ claimed He was and what He did for mankind is all that is required for one's salvation.  And here we have Jesus saying that the work of God is that we believe on Him whom God sent.  However, backing up in the context we see Jesus instructing His listeners to labor for the meat that endureth unto everlasting life.  Is mental belief all that is really required or is there something more? 

Christians agree faith is essential (Hebrews 11:6): we must believe in God and His Son. Disagreement arises over whether salvation requires more than belief. Many teach “faith only,” citing John 11:26 and Acts 16:31, while others affirm additional obedience is necessary. The discussion centers on Scripture’s teaching about saving faith.

Who Are You Feeding?

True hospitality is not about impressing friends—it’s about reflecting the heart of God. In this lesson, Jesus challenges us to care for the poor, the broken, and the overlooked. By examining Scripture, we’re reminded that our generosity reveals our spiritual priorities and will be remembered on the day of judgment.

After a long, hot day of work, no one would put on fresh clothes without first taking a shower. Spiritually, the same principle applies. We are all stained by sin and cannot cover it with our own righteousness. Only Christ’s blood—His cleansing fountain—can wash us clean and make us truly new.

This lesson explores the powerful connection between the Old Testament Passover and Jesus Christ, the true Lamb of God. Just as Israel was spared by the blood of a spotless lamb, we are saved today through the precious blood of Christ. God still declares, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.”

This lesson draws special attention to the purpose behind Jesus’ death: to shed His blood. While it may seem like a repetition of the gospel message, it deserves deeper reflection. Jesus did not die merely as a martyr or moral example — He died to shed His blood for the remission of sins. Without that shedding, His death would have no power to save. Hebrews 9:22 declares, “Without the shedding of blood is no remission.” That truth, grounded in both the Old and New Testaments, anchors this message.

The Life of Joseph

Life is not perfect. Bad things happen to good people. Everybody makes mistakes, bad choices. The question is: “Can God bring good out of these?” Yes, He can! Read Romans 8:28. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” NKJV This is clearly seen in the life of the Old Testament character, Joseph. It’s to his life we now turn our attention.

 Christmas:   (Click Title For Full Sermon Library)

Should We Celebrate Christmas?

The Christmas season is upon us.  We will often hear “Jesus is the reason for the season” and “Let’s put Christ back in Christmas.”  How should Christians respond?  Should we celebrate it at all?  Does God allow us to celebrate this holiday in certain ways?  These are important questions which deserve our careful consideration.

Each year, conversations about the season return. Some esteem a day to remember Jesus’ birth; others treat every day alike. Scripture calls me to be fully convinced in my own mind and to give thanks in either case (Romans 14:5–6). My aim in this lesson is to honor the Lord’s authority, walk in love toward consciences that differ, and use the moment to point hearts to the Savior.

The Assembling of the Saints

The early church/ekklesia regularly assembled regularly.  The purpose of this article is to examine whether there is sufficient evidence within God’s word to draw the conclusion that Christians/Believers regularly assembled in the early church for the purpose of worshiping God.   This study from God’s Word is in response to those who seek to deny the reality of assembled Christians for the purpose of worship toward God in the early church. 

Church Growth

In the religious world today, many groups measure success by numbers alone. Newsletters, broadcasts, and online promotions reveal a willingness to use gimmicks and marketing strategies to boost attendance. While growth is a worthy desire—I pray for it daily—it must not come at any cost. The New Testament teaches that there are principles more important than numerical growth. This lesson examines those priorities, each rooted in God’s Word, that must guide the Lord’s church if growth is to be pleasing to Him.

 Conscience:   (Click Title For Full Sermon Library)

The New Testament word translated “conscience” speaks of shared knowledge within the self—an inner awareness formed by instruction and experience. In the Old Testament this function is frequently expressed by the word “heart.” Paul describes the conscience as a faculty that testifies inside a person about right and wrong: “their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them” (Romans 2:13–16). The conscience, then, observes, testifies, and renders a verdict. Because it operates with information, it must be taught what is true if it is to guide us well.

The world often celebrates appetite for more, yet Scripture presses a sober question: when is enough, enough? From the first temptation in Eden, the pattern appears—seeing, desiring, taking—and the consequences follow. God addresses this deep struggle with a clear command, a host of warnings, and a gracious way forward. Our task is to understand coveting as the Bible defines it, trace its patterns and outcomes, learn the desires God commends, and embrace the practices that break coveting’s grip.

Text: Galatians 6:11–14 The cross of Christ is the ground of our salvation, the center of our hope, and the power that severs the world’s grip on the heart.

While dying on the cross, Jesus spoke few yet life-giving statements. Scourged, nailed, exposed to shame and agony, He still addressed us with words that endure for the faithful. His love compelled Him to willingly endure the cross for our redemption, teaching by word and example until His final breath.

How to Disobey God

(Matthew 25:21):
Hopefully all of us desire to obey our Heavenly Father and one day hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Lord.” But the Bible clearly shows that there are many ways a person can disobey God. We need to be aware of these so that they will not become our downfall.

Disobeying God

(1 John 3:4)
“Most people live as though they cannot disobey God, or that at least it doesn’t make any difference if they do.” Those words should cause us to pause and examine ourselves. Many people either believe it is impossible to disobey God, or they believe disobedience carries no consequences. Some deny God altogether, while others believe that if God exists, He would never send anyone to hell. Yet Scripture makes it clear: there are numerous ways in which we can disobey God. This lesson is a call to self-examination, using God’s Word as a magnifying glass to see whether disobedience has crept into our lives.

Whenever a particular religious group’s beliefs are examined, it is done to see whether these teachings are in agreement with the Word of God.  As with many faiths, some of its members may be unaware of what that religious group actually teaches.

Recently we received a request to present a lesson on the Catholic Church. This organization claims hundreds of millions of members worldwide. We will certainly meet its followers, and we must be prepared to give an answer. What is the origin of this church, and what are its main teachings? (Acts 2:41–42, 47).

Lay Hold On Eternal Life

The apostle Paul ends his first letter to Timothy, the evangelist, emphatically by encouraging him to lay hold on eternal life. Paul describes how all Christians can get a firm grip on everlasting life. He lists certain principles that one must pursue if one wants heaven to be his home. This is of the utmost importance!  Sermon text: 1 Timothy 6:11-16

The necessity of doctrinal purity

A.W. TOZER once said, “It would be impossible to overemphasize the importance of sound doctrine in the life of a Christian. Right thinking about all spiritual matters is imperative to having the right living. As men do not gather grapes of thorns nor figs of thistles, so sound character does not grow out of unsound teaching.”
The popular idea is that doctrine is not important; one must only be sincere. Paul refutes that belief in our text and stresses the absolute necessity of doctrinal purity.
Lesson text: 1 Timothy 6:3-5

The Doctrine Of Christ

By the time Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, they had traveled together for many years. Paul had left Timothy at Ephesus and placed a great deal of responsibility upon his young shoulders. He was to teach the church there how to conduct itself, how to worship, how to treat one another, and how to evangelize. But Timothy was to accomplish this by means of sound doctrine. Paul says to use scripture, the word of God. It was to have the foremost place in his work. Text: one Timothy 1: 3-7

What Will Happen When the Lord Returns?

Read Acts 1:9-11.  “Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight.  And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven?  This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”  NKJV  The angels declared that Jesus would come again.  But what does the Bible say will happen when Jesus Christ returns?

Don't Give Up

Temptation – Each of us has been tempted before.  It can come in many forms and wear many faces.  But how do we keep from giving in to temptation?  A great example is that of Joseph in the Old Testament.  Read Genesis 39:7-9.  “And it came to pass after these things that his master’s wife cast longing eyes on Joseph and she said, ‘Lie with me.’  But he refused and said to his master’s wife, ‘Look, my master does not know what is with me in the house, and he has committed all that he has to my hand.  There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife.  How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?’ ” NKJV  Satan found that he could not overcome Joseph with troubles from the world, so he tried to entice him with sensual pleasures.  This story reveals four principles to keep in mind when we are tempted.

Many today claim that our eternal home will be a renovated earth. But is that what the Bible teaches? This lesson examines both Old and New Testament scriptures to reveal the true nature of the “new heavens and new earth”—a heavenly, eternal dwelling prepared by God for the righteous.

Many speculate about Christ’s return, but only Scripture gives us certainty. What will truly happen when Jesus comes again? This lesson examines key biblical passages to reveal the truth: the resurrection of all, the final judgment, the end of the world, and the eternal reward or punishment that follows.

A Preacher’s Charge

Paul left Timothy in Ephesus as an evangelist to instruct the church there on how to behave. Timothy was given great responsibility as the preacher for the church in Ephesus. In our text, Paul gives Timothy a charge as to how he was to conduct himself as their preacher.  Sermon text: 1 Timothy 4: 12-16

Go Into All The World

Just before he ascended back to heaven, Jesus had one final instruction to impart to his disciples. He gave them his plan for spreading the gospel, good news, and making more disciples. This Final instruction, which Jesus gave his disciples before leaving earth and returning to heaven, is what is commonly called the Great Commission.  The text for our lesson today is Matthew 28:16-20.

Bringing the Lost Back

Losing something precious breaks our hearts. Jesus used the parable of the lost sheep to show heaven’s joy when one sinner repents (Luke 15:1–7). Sin separates from God, and when a Christian strays it grieves the church. Scripture calls us to bring the lost sheep back to Christ.

Forgiveness restores broken relationships—but asking for it properly is often neglected. A sincere apology involves more than words; it requires humility, ownership, and action. In this lesson, we examine what the Bible teaches about genuine repentance and how to ask for forgiveness in a way that leads to true reconciliation.

Forgiveness is essential—but asking for it the right way is often neglected. In this lesson, we complete our study on biblical apologizing by examining genuine repentance and the courage to say, “Will you forgive me?” These final steps are vital to healing relationships and restoring our fellowship with God and others.

Gambling

With casinos and lotteries close at hand, Christians must ask what God says. Scripture is sufficient (2 Timothy 3:16–17). Our lesson examines gambling in light of God’s word and calls us to “have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness” (Ephesians 5:11).

Sermon/Lesson Title

 
God:
 

The Providence of God

Introduction: Although the word Providence never appears in God's word, the subject is taught throughout scripture. This word comes from a Latin word meaning “to take thought for, foresee.” A good definition is “that preservation, care, and governance which God exercises over all things that he has created, so that they may accomplish the ends for which they were created.”

Our Great and Awesome God

Text: Psalm 139   This psalm is sometimes called “the crown of the Psalms.”  David here paints a portrait of God probably surpassed in beauty. A tribute to Jehovah God in which David presents the makeup of God and his characteristics for all humanity to see. The rider pictures him as all-knowing, all-seeing, all-powerful, and finally, all-holy.

Does God Really Exist?

The answer to the question: “does God exist?” Affects all other questions.  “If there is a supreme being then life has inherent purpose and some form of meaning.” Doctor Brad Harrub, PH. D. In anatomy and neurobiology from the University of Tennessee.  Why should every right thinking, rational human being believe in the existence of a supreme being?

Stop for a moment and make a list of the things in life that would make you happy if you could change them. In John 4:35, Jesus said the fields are already “white unto harvest”. I am convinced that at least part of what Jesus meant was that people in the world are looking for true abiding happiness and joy, in their lives. But they do not realize that it comes through God. Everyone can make a list of things that would make them happy. Only a few are so happy that they would choose to change nothing in their lives. The world is searching for happiness.

The Promise of a New Heaven and a New Earth

Our eternal home in heaven is a promise from God—where righteousness, joy, and no more tears reign forever. While the current world is temporary, God's divine plan assures us of a glorious future beyond this life, built on His unchangeable Word and everlasting love.

This world is broken—filled with pain, sin, and sorrow. But for the Christian, there is hope. Jesus promised a place prepared for the faithful, a home beyond this life. In this lesson, we’ll explore what the Bible says about heaven, and how we can prepare for that eternal home of the soul.

Jesus Describes Hell

Hell isn’t fiction. It’s a real, eternal place that Jesus Himself described in sobering detail. In this lesson, we’ll explore what Jesus said about the day of judgment, the pain of punishment, and the everlasting nature of hell. These truths should change how we see others—and how we live today.

Rightly interpreting the Bible is essential for knowing God’s will and living by it. These lessons provide a clear, practical guide for faithful study—exploring context, language, authority, inference, and more. With reverence, logic, and humility, we can understand Scripture as God intended and apply it truthfully in every generation.

Faith That Works – James 2:14–20

James 2:14–20 reminds us that true faith must be active. It is not enough to believe or profess belief; faith must be demonstrated through obedience. James reveals that faith without works is dead, emphasizing that only a working, obedient faith brings life and salvation through Christ.

Law and Mercy – James 2:8–13

James 2:8–13 reveals that God’s law of love and mercy governs how we treat others. The “royal law” commands us to love our neighbor as ourselves, showing no partiality. This passage reminds us that obedience, impartiality, and mercy are all marks of genuine faith under Christ’s law of liberty.

The Impartiality of Christianity – James 2:1–7

James 2:1–7 teaches that the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ leaves no place for partiality. The church must judge with righteous judgment, honoring character over appearance, and receiving every soul without favoritism in the presence of the Lord of glory.

The Kingdom Of God

Our savior used the word Kingdom over 75 times, as recorded in the New Testament. He sometimes called it the Kingdom of Heaven, and sometimes he called it the Kingdom of God. Note how they are used interchangeably in Matthew 4: 17 and Mark 1: 14-15. Kingdom refers to God's kingship or rule from heaven. Often, in the Old Testament, this idea of God's domain and rule is his rule over the entire world.

He sits upon a throne, Psalm 103: 19. The host of heaven surrounds him, 1 Kings 22: 19, and He appoints rulers in the world, Daniel 2: 37, 4: 17. He is the king of the entire world, 1 Chronicles 29: 11, and his rule is everlasting, Psalms 145: 13.

However, the Old Testament speaks much about a Kingdom being established in the future. Note Daniel 2: 44, these kings—the Roman kings—and Daniel 7: 13-14. This kingdom did not exist yet, yet God promised it would one day.

I’m glad God’s Word includes Psalms 47:8 “God reigns over the nations; God sits on His holy throne.” If you are like me, you are appalled at what you see happening in our country. Immorality is getting worse and worse. Christianity is being ridiculed at all levels of government; conservative values are on the decline. Is our country getting close to crossing the line where God’s anger will be unleashed upon us?

As autumn arrives with cooler air and turning leaves, Israel’s calendar turns to three God-given feasts. Leviticus 23 gathers them—Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, and Booths—calling God’s people to remember, repent, and rejoice. Today we learn Christ’s meaning within them (Leviticus 23).

The Sabbath invites careful study. God commanded Israel, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8–11). Many confuse its meaning and application. By returning to Scripture, we see whom God bound by this command, how Christ fulfilled the law, and where Christians find their promised rest.

How would you describe yourself as a follower of Jesus Christ?  Are you dedicated, committed, zealous?  Or would lukewarm, mediocre, half-hearted better describe you?  What does lukewarm look like?  Francis Chan in the book Crazy Love would say those that are lukewarm look like this.

Are You Lukewarm?

Every Christian must pause from time to time and look inward. Paul told the Corinthians, “Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5). Self-examination is not optional—it is necessary. Without it, we risk drifting into spiritual apathy without realizing it. The Lord’s words to Laodicea in Revelation 3:15–16 remain a piercing warning: “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm… I will vomit you out of My mouth.”

Text: Genesis 2:18-24
Marriage is a sacred institution because it came from God Himself. As Hebrews 13:4 proclaims, “Marriage is honorable among all- - -” Even Jesus performed His first miracle at a wedding ceremony. We can learn much by looking at the very first wedded couple. (Genesis 2:18-24)

In today’s society, marriage is under serious strain. Broken homes, selfishness, and spiritual immaturity plague relationships. But God’s Word offers both warnings and solutions. This lesson explores biblical reasons marriages fail—and the timeless principles that help them succeed—so we can build lasting, godly relationships grounded in truth and love.

Marriage is God’s design, but modern culture often distorts its purpose and roles. This lesson explores the distinct responsibilities of husbands and wives as revealed in Scripture. When each partner understands and embraces their God-given role, marriages thrive, families are strengthened, and God is glorified through their loving, unified obedience.

Many in our world have lost their way spiritually, much like ancient Judah. God’s call through Jeremiah—“Ask for the ancient paths”—remains relevant today. This lesson urges us to examine our hearts, return to God's word, and walk in His ways before it's too late. The path to life is narrow.

Many powerful slogans emerged from the Restoration Movement to help believers remember essential truths about biblical authority, unity, and practice. These phrases—simple yet profound—summarized the movement’s goal: to return to New Testament Christianity by speaking where the Bible speaks and remaining silent where it is silent. Their wisdom still speaks today.

The Christians’ View of Money

The times we live are some of the most prosperous in human history. There are very few truly poor people in America today, compared to the rest of the world. We have more material possessions than any generation that has ever walked the earth. How are Christians to view their money and possessions? How are we to keep our priorities straight? How are we to control what we have in a society that does not? God's word is always relevant, and our text addresses these important questions very directly.

1 Timothy 6:6-10,

Jesus was the Master Storyteller.  On one occasion while a multitude of thousands was gathered, a man in the crowd told Jesus to tell his brother to divide the inheritance with him.  Note Christ’s reply in Luke 12:14-21.

There was nothing wrong with the possession of wealth.  It was the wrong use of it that Jesus condemned.  Wealth and possessions can lead one away from God and into ruin.  See Proverbs 15:27 “He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house, But he who hates bribes will live.” and James 5:1-6. “5 You have lived on the earth in pleasure and luxury; you have fattened your hearts as in a day of slaughter.” NKJV