Listen to weekly messages from Dr. Mike McCormick, Lead Pastor of Berlin Baptist Church in Salley, SC. Occasional guest speakers are also included in this podcast.
This morning we finish up chapter six of the book of Judges. Gideon completes his first assignment from the Lord as he is being prepared for bigger and better things. At the same time, Gideon demonstrates a surprising lack of faith in God as he "puts out the fleece" to gain further confirmation of God's commands. Scripture text is Judges 6:25-40.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Judges. The people of Israel have once again fallen back into the vicious cycle of sin against God. Presumably, the judge Deborah has passed away and the people are doing what is evil in the sight of the Lord. The Lord sends them a prophet to call them to repentance. Then the Angel of the Lord makes an appearance. The peace of God is on the horizon. Scripture text is Judges 6:1-24.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Judges. In chapter four Deborah emerged as the only female judge in Israel. God used her to accomplish his purposes for his people despite the lack of obedient men. This week, in chapter five, Deborah and Barack sing a song celebrating God's goodness in the victory He provided. Scripture text is Judges 5:1-31.
Today we continue our study through the book of Judges where we find an interesting scenario highlighting the roles of men and women in the kingdom of God. For the second time now in this book an individual attempts to make his obedience to God conditional. Unfortunately, this type of behavior never ends well. Scripture text is Judges 4-1-24.
This morning we get back into our study verse by verse through the book of Judges in the Old Testament. The vicious cycle begins. The people do what is evil in the sight of the Lord. The people suffer the consequences of their actions and are punished by God. The people cry out to God for help. God sends a deliverer in the form of a Judge. The Judge delivers the people and defeats their enemies. The Judge dies. The people go right back to practicing evil. It seems humanity has a really difficult time learning their lesson. Scripture text is Judges 3:7-31.
Christ the Lord is risen today! Alleluia! This morning we celebrate the glorious resurrection of our Lord and King, Jesus Christ. Mary was at the tomb. Peter and John were at the tomb. They were all perplexed when they found it to be empty. John believed at that moment. Mary took a bit of convincing. What will it take for you to believe in Jesus? Scripture text is John 20:1-18.
Palm Sunday marks Jesus making his triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The people are shouting “Hosanna” and glorifying God as the Messiah makes his way through the city streets. Unfortunately, their attitudes would soon begin to change as Good Friday approaches. Scripture text is Luke 19:28-48. **Due to technical difficulties, we join this sermon already in progress.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Judges. Last week we saw the people of Israel in terrible distress because of their disobedience. This week the same principle is reinforced with the reminder that all actions have consequences. God provided spiritual leaders for His people, but the people simply would not listen. Scripture text is Judges 2:16-3:6.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Judges. The people of Israel demonstrate time and again reasons to trust in the Lord and follow His Word. Unfortunately, the people of God from one generation to the next fail to learn the necessary lesson. Disciple-making as a discipline emerges front and center as a crucial piece to the puzzle. Scripture text is Judges 2:1-15.
Today we begin our study verse by verse through the Old Testament book of Judges. We will see first hand the vicious cycle of God's provision and the people's unfaithfulness. Scripture text for today is Judges 1:1-36.
This morning we take a closer look at what is perhaps the most well-known verse of Scripture in the world, John 3:16. God loved the world in a very particular way. He gave his one and only Son in order that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. This Scripture is at the heart of the gospel.
Today we complete our study of the book of Joshua. All the battles have been fought and won. The promised land has been claimed and occupied. The only thing left to do is to fear the Lord and serve Him only. Joshua completes his farewell address with a compelling proposition along with distinct proclamation. Scripture text is Joshua 24:1-33.
This morning we come to the beginning of the end as it pertains to Joshua's ministry. Joshua begins his farewell address with a final plea for the people to take seriously their love for the Lord their God and their faithfulness to the covenant they have made with Him. When it comes to who God is and all God has done, the people of God cannot afford to forget to remember. Scripture text is Joshua 23:1-16.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Joshua. The conquest is complete. The promised land is possessed and occupied. The tribes of Reuben and Gad, along with the half-tribe of Manasseh, are now able to return to their inherited land on the east side of the Jordan. However, what should be a time of rejoicing turns into a time of potential conflict, all because of some miscommunication. Scripture text is Joshua 22:1-34.
This morning, as we continue our study through the book of Joshua, we discover how the people of Israel set aside 48 cities from among their collective inheritance for the Levites. Since there was no inheritance of land for the Levites, God had commanded Moses to set aside cities in which they would live. God supplies the land, God refreshes their memories, and God gives them rest when the task is complete. Scripture text is Joshua 21:1-45.
Today we continue our study through the book of Joshua. Moses had commanded the people of Israel to designate six cities out of the forty-eight cities of the Levites as "Cities of Refuge." These locations would provide protection for those who had accidentally, or without malice and premeditation, taken the life of another. The correlation between the Old Testament Cities of Refuge and the singular Refuge for sinners is profound. Scripture text is Joshua 20:1-9.
Today we continue our study through the book of Joshua. The remaining seven tribes of the sons of Israel are ready to divide their inheritance in the promised land. Why has it taken so long for God's people to take possession of what was promised? There has been a delay in obedience. Scripture text is Joshua 18:1 - 19:51.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the Old Testament book of Joshua. The sons of Joseph, Ephraim and Manasseh, are now about to receive their inheritance in the promised land. Once again, however, there is some difficulty with God's people driving out the Canaanites from the land that is rightfully theirs. What crucial ingredient is missing from this equation? Scripture text is Joshua 16:1-17:18.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Joshua. The tribe of Judah is receiving their inheritance within the promised land on the west side of the Jordan. Caleb continues his obedience in service to the Lord as he drives out the remaining sons of the Anakim in Hebron. But the story ends on a negative note as the Jebusites remain in Jerusalem despite the presence of the sons of the tribe of Judah. Scripture text is Joshua 15:1-63.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Joshua. God's people are preparing to occupy the land of their inheritance. In the meantime, Caleb is ready to receive the long-awaited promise of God. He has labored forty-five years with patient faithfulness and now he will be rewarded. Scripture text is Joshua 14:1-15.
This morning we resume our study verse by verse through the Old Testament book of Joshua. Much of the action of war and battle is complete, but there is still much land to be occupied by God's people. Chapter 13 is a picture of God's faithfulness to always do His part of the work. It is also a lesson for God's people to worry more about what God has told them to do and less about what God has promised to do. God can be trusted. We must be obedient. Scripture text is Joshua 13:1-33.
Following a Christmas Cantata presented by the worship choir, Pastor Mike brings a brief message from the book of Hebrews. Joy is so important in life, but often it seems so elusive. Discouragement, however, seems easy to come by. The true and solitary source of lasting joy is Jesus Christ. We must fix our eye on Christ alone. Scripture text is Hebrews 12:1-3.
This morning we celebrate the third Sunday of the 2024 Advent season. The theme for today is love, specifically, the love of God. Scripture shows us abundant evidence of the love of God toward His people. One great example of God's love is seen in the life and experience of King David. As David desires to build a house for the God of Israel, he quickly finds out that God has other plans. Scripture text is 2 Samuel 7:1-29.
Today we pause from our study through the book of Joshua to take a closer look at some biblical themes from the season of Advent. The peace of Christ is available to all who would seek His face and enter into a relationship with him by repentance and faith. Scripture text is Genesis 12:1-9.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Joshua. God has worked mightily in the life of the nation of Israel. He has led them to many victories on the battlefield under the leadership of Moses and Joshua. He has kept his promises to his people. We must never forget God's goodness and faithfulness. Scripture text is Joshua 12:1-24.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Joshua. After successfully conquering the southern portion of Palestine, another group of kings have gathered together to fight against Israel. The Lord has told Joshua not to be afraid because He will fight for Israel. As the will of God unfolds, obedience is crucial. Scripture text is Joshua 11:1-23.
Today we venture on in our study verse by verse through the book of Joshua. The narrative continues as more and more people hear about the military exploits of God's people, the Israelites. As they hear about the success of Israel, they become more and more worried. Several kings join forces to come against God's people only to be destroyed completely. The LORD, the God of Israel, fights for His people. Scripture text is Joshua 10:1-43.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Joshua in the Old Testament. God's people continue to be slow in learning their lesson when they fail to seek God's direction. We must learn a similar lesson as we follow Christ and His Word. Scripture text is Joshua 9:1-27.
Today we continue our study of the book of Joshua. After purging the sin from the camp, Israel has a new perspective as they prepare to face the same opponent for a second time. God's people are resolved to behave like God's people once again. God gives the battle plan and His people carry it out. Scripture text is Joshua 8:1-35.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the Old Testament book of Joshua. God's people have been given a resounding victory over the city of Jericho. Unfortunately, not everyone in Israel followed the Lord's instructions. One thing is always certain: sin has consequences. Scripture text is Joshua 7:1-26.
Today we continue in our study verse by verse through the book of Joshua. God has prepared his people for what is to come. They must now follow his instructions as they enter the promised land. The people of Israel may not fully understand what is happening, but they are fighting a battle God has already won. Scripture text is Joshua 6:1-27.
This morning we celebrate Homecoming at Berlin Baptist Church. Our special guest preacher is Rev. Jamie Rogers, who serves as the Associational Mission Strategist for the Columbia-Metro Baptist Association in Columbia, SC. Scripture text today is from Luke 15:11-32.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Joshua. The people of God have crossed the Jordan river successfully and they are preparing to take possession of the promised land. But before they can do that, God has to take them through a process of renewal. Scripture text is Joshua 5:2-15.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the Old Testament book of Joshua. The Israelites are completing their safe passage across the Jordan river on dry ground because of a miracle of God. The most crucial aspect of their experience, however, is that they never forget what the Lord has done. Scripture text is Joshua 4:1 - 5:1.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the book of Joshua. The nation of Israel is poised and ready to cross the Jordan river opposite Jericho. Before they proceed, though, they need the proper instructions and the proper preparation. Scripture text is Joshua 3:1-17.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the Old Testament book of Joshua. The Israelites are preparing to enter the promised land, but first they send two spies to survey the situation. Rahab, the harlot, is a name we will come to remember for the way God uses her for His glory despite her checkered past. A good lesson for us all. Scripture text is Joshua 2:1-24.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the Old Testament book of Joshua. God has spoken to Joshua and now Joshua will command the people. The promised land is within their grasp, but will they be faithful to obey God's words? Past history seems to say no. Scripture text is Joshua 1:10-18.
Today we begin a journey verse by verse through the book of Joshua in the Old Testament. The Lord's servant Moses has died and Joshua has been commissioned as the new Leader for the children of Israel. They stand poised on the banks of the Jordan, prepared to enter into the promised land. In all these things, God is faithful to his people. Scripture text is Joshua 1:1-9.
This morning we conclude our study of the gospel of Matthew. This final paragraph contains the well known passage known as the Great Commission. There is a distinct flow to this biblical command that provides the Christian with a great deal of encouragement. The task is great, but so is our God. Scripture text is Matthew 28:16-20.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the gospel of Matthew. The plot to kill Jesus has been carried out and it may seem to the outside observer that the religious establishment has achieved their victory. Sunday, however, will prove to be far different from Friday. Scripture text is Matthew 28:1-15.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the gospel of Matthew. Jesus has been crucified unjustly, but now he needs to be buried before the Sabbath day begins. Joseph of Arimathea approaches Pilate, asking for the body of Jesus. Meanwhile, the Jewish religious leaders still plot to discredit the predicted resurrection. Scripture text is Matthew 27:57-66.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the gospel of Matthew. Jesus has been moved through his trial to his scourging to his crucifixion. From false witnesses to mocking crowds, Jesus has been subjected to the worst treatment imaginable. And yet, throughout all the horrendous circumstances, all he offers is humility and kindness in return. Scripture text is Matthew 27:27-56.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the gospel of Matthew. Jesus is standing before Pilate because of the actions of the chief priests and the elders. Although he is being accused of terrible things, Jesus remains silent. Pilate is influenced by the crowds. The crowds are influenced by the religious leaders. Meanwhile, no one appears to be influenced by God. Scripture text is Matthew 27:11-26.
Pardon the interruption. A mission team from the Edisto Baptist Association, including Pastor Mike, is serving this week in Miami, Florida, in partnership with Gospel Life Church. So today we have the privilege of hearing from Rev. Todd Menie, Weekday Children's Ministry Pastor for First Baptist Church Lexington. Todd will be speaking from the book of 1 John.
This morning we continue in our study verse by verse through the gospel of Matthew. Jesus is bound and sent to Pilate while Judas is struggling with the consequences of his own actions. Judas knows he has made mistake, but there is nothing he can to change the dreadful outcome. Scripture text is Matthew 27:1-10.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the gospel of Matthew. Jesus has been arrested and is in the court of the religious council. They have no respect for the truth. They just want Jesus to be executed. Meanwhile, Peter is in the courtyard listening to the proceedings. He refuses to stand up for the truth. He seems worried about his own safety. In both circumstances, the truth is not valued. Scripture text is Matthew 26:57-75.
This morning the pulpit is filled by Rev. Brett Aiken. He serves as teaching Pastor for Faith Fellowship in Pendleton, SC. He is a Pastor and a Missionary. He has had the honor to preach the gospel in 14 countries with plans to travel more. He has authored 5 books. Brett is married to Erica and they have one son. Rev. Aiken will be sharing a message from 2 Corinthians 1:8-10 entitled "Three Common Lies We Believe."
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the gospel of Matthew. Jesus and his disciples are in the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus is praying to the Father. He asks his followers to watch and pray, but all they end up doing is sleeping and resting. Jesus is betrayed into the hands of sinners and he is left all alone as those closest to him run away. Scripture text is Matthew 26:31-56.
This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the gospel of Matthew. The plot thickens as Judas approaches the Chief Priests with a proposition to betray Jesus. The Lord's Supper is instituted as Jesus informs his disciples of his impending betrayal, effectively telling Judas that He knows everything that is about to happen. Scripture text is Matthew 26:14-30.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the gospel of Matthew. Jesus has completed all the teaching he had planned to do and now the circumstances of his earthly ministry are turning dark. The religious leaders are plotting his death and yet he still remains more focused on serving people than defending his own position. Scripture text is Matthew 26:1-13.
Today we continue our study verse by verse through the gospel of Matthew. Jesus concludes the Olivet discourse with a vivid illustration of the final judgment. He has warned his disciples over and over to be alert and prepared since no one knows the day or the hour when Christ will return. Jesus now concludes his discourse by highlighting the consequences of rejecting the King and His gospel. Scripture text is Matthew 25:31-46.