Christ the Redeemer Church

This sermon addresses the discouragement believers often face when sharing the gospel, emphasizing that while rejection is common, God ensures that some will receive the message. The central argument draws from Matthew 10:40-42, asserting that receiving a disciple is equivalent to receiving Christ, and that the ultimate reward for both the receiver and the laborer is Christ Himself. The preacher contrasts the messiness of the church and the reality of persecution with the hope found in God's promises, using examples like Jeremiah and Moses to illustrate that God provides hope amidst trials. The tone is pastoral and exhortative, urging the congregation to remain bold and unashamed of the gospel, trusting that salvation is of the Lord and that the joy of one sinner repenting outweighs all rejection. The message concludes with a call to trust in Christ's perfect righteousness as the sole basis for justification before God.

This sermon examines the challenging nature of discipleship as presented in Matthew 10, emphasizing that Jesus did not come to bring worldly peace but to divide households through the truth of the Gospel. The message addresses the reality of persecution and the potential loss of close relationships when believers prioritize their loyalty to Christ over familial or social ties. It challenges the audience to examine their own identity, warning that seeking validation and satisfaction in worldly achievements leads to spiritual loss, whereas surrendering one's life to Christ results in true eternal gain. The tone is pastoral yet convicting, urging believers to remain faithful in their witness while trusting God's sovereignty in the salvation of others, rather than relying on human persuasion. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a complete commitment to Jesus, acknowledging that the cost of following Him may be high, but the reward of eternal life is far superior to any earthly comfort.

This sermon exhorts believers to reject fear and anxiety while serving as laborers for the gospel, drawing primarily from Matthew chapter 10. The preacher emphasizes that God's sovereign care extends even to insignificant details like sparrows, proving that His followers are infinitely more valuable to Him. It warns that following Christ inevitably brings persecution and social loss, yet these trials reveal the authenticity of one's faith. Believers are urged to confidently confess Jesus before others, knowing that He will affirm them before the Father in heaven. Ultimately, the message encourages proactive preparation through Scripture to remain steadfast and unashamed amidst a hostile world.

The sermon distinguishes between two types of fear regarding God: servile fear, which is a terror of punishment, and filial fear, which is a reverent awe rooted in love and respect for God as a Father. Using Psalm 119:79 as the primary text, the message argues that believers possess a new nature characterized by this filial reverence rather than dread. This transformed perspective arises from being born again through faith in Christ, who removes the penalty of sin and invites intimacy with the Father. The preacher encourages the audience to approach God with honor and adoration, recognizing His majesty while resting in the security of His grace. Ultimately, true faith is demonstrated by turning to God's testimony with a heart that desires to please Him out of love rather than fear of judgment.

Title: Talk About His Precepts Speaker: Creston Thomas Series: Psalm 119 Date: September 6, 2026 Bible: Psalm 119:78 The sermon explores Psalm 119:78, urging believers to trust God's vindication when facing false accusations and persecution from the proud. By analyzing the Hebrew word for 'let' as a humble plea rather than a command, the text emphasizes that it is appropriate to ask God to shame those who oppose His truth. The preacher illustrates this through Joseph's experience in Genesis, showing how he refrained from defending himself against Potiphar's wife and instead relied on God's timing. Believers are encouraged to meditate on God's precepts and silence their own defenses, allowing Scripture to speak for them. Ultimately, the message affirms that God faithfully honors His word and vindicates those who remain faithful amidst trials.

Title: Laborers Count it Worthy to Suffer For Christ Speaker: Creston Thomas Series: Matthew Date: September 6, 2026 Bible: Matthew 10:16-25 The sermon explores the reality of persecution as an inevitable part of the Christian life, drawing primarily from Matthew chapter 10. It emphasizes that believers must possess a transformed heart and actively seek the lost, mirroring Jesus' mission to find His sheep among wolves. The preacher instructs followers to remain wise and harmless when facing opposition, trusting in the Holy Spirit for guidance rather than anxiety. Furthermore, it reframes suffering not as a negative burden but as a privilege that allows believers to share in Christ's own experiences and ultimately be glorified with Him. The message concludes with an urgent call to prioritize loyalty to Christ over worldly acceptance, assuring that endurance leads to salvation.

This sermon examines Matthew 10:5-15, emphasizing the importance of interpreting Scripture within its proper historical and literary context to understand Jesus' instructions to the twelve apostles. The preacher explains that Jesus initially directed the mission solely to the lost sheep of Israel to fulfill covenant promises before the gospel expanded to the Gentiles. Key themes include the urgency of preaching the kingdom of heaven, relying on divine provision rather than material wealth, and distinguishing between those who genuinely receive the message and those who reject it. The text highlights that true discipleship requires a transformed heart and dependence on God, while warning against forcing the gospel upon those who are unwilling to listen. Ultimately, the passage calls believers to faithfully share the good news with their families and communities, trusting God to provide for their needs through the hospitality of receptive listeners.

The sermon explores the profound importance of God's word and His tender mercies, drawing primarily from Psalm 119. It emphasizes that believers must actively seek divine mercy to gain good judgment and endure suffering with trust in God's unchanging nature. The preacher argues that delighting in Scripture is essential for recognizing God's compassion in daily life and overcoming struggles like anxiety and depression. Furthermore, the message highlights the necessity of Christian community, urging believers to encourage one another rather than relying on individual strength or worldly idols. Ultimately, the central call is to remember past mercies, engage with the Bible regularly, and live in grateful dependence on God's grace.

The sermon explores the concept of true comfort by analyzing Psalm 119:76, contrasting fleeting worldly distractions with God's unchanging nature. The preacher defines Hebrew 'chesed' as steadfast covenant love that remains firmly fixed unlike temporary satisfactions such as money or leisure. By examining biblical examples like Joseph and Hezekiah, the text illustrates how God's merciful kindness has historically sustained His people through hardship. The message urges listeners to abandon false comforts and instead plead for divine mercy through consistent engagement with Scripture. Ultimately, finding lasting satisfaction requires placing complete hope in Jesus and His enduring covenant love.

The sermon explores the nature of true discipleship by analyzing Matthew 10:1-4, emphasizing that genuine faith requires a transformed heart rather than mere external compliance or tradition. It distinguishes between a general call to service and a salvational call, using Judas Iscariot as an example of someone who performed miracles yet remained unsaved due to his unrepentant heart. True laborers for the harvest are characterized by receiving authority from Jesus, demonstrating compassion for the broken, and imitating Christ in their daily conduct. The message urges believers to examine their motives, ensuring they serve out of a new heart motivated by love for God rather than a desire for human approval or material gain. Ultimately, the preacher calls the audience to respond to the gospel with urgency, highlighting that salvation is found only in Jesus and requires immediate repentance and faith.

The sermon examines Matthew 9:35-38 to reveal that God sovereignly prepares both the harvest of believers and the laborers who will gather them. By analyzing Jesus' ministry of healing and teaching, the text highlights a remnant of people whose hearts are broken and ready for redemption. The preacher argues that evangelism is not dependent on human intellect but on divine initiative, as God moves with compassion to draw souls to Himself. Believers are called to be laborers who disciple others and live lives that point to Jesus, relying entirely on earnest prayer to fulfill this mission. Ultimately, the message urges listeners to abandon comfort and selfishness to actively participate in God's global work of salvation.

The sermon examines Psalm 119:75 to define true saving faith through the theological concepts of knowing, believing, and trusting. Drawing from the Protestant Reformation, it distinguishes mere intellectual assent from genuine reliance on God's word during times of affliction. The preacher argues that while demons may know and believe in God, only believers who trust Him demonstrate living faith. By referencing Hebrews 11, the message emphasizes that authentic faith requires personal trust in God even when circumstances are difficult or unseen. The conclusion challenges listeners to move beyond easy believism and cultivate a deep, trusting relationship with the Lord.

This sermon explores the biblical mandate for community and mutual support found in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, emphasizing that believers are not meant to face life's trials alone. The preacher illustrates this through four key aspects of friendship: laboring together, lifting each other up when fallen, providing warmth and comfort, and finding strength in unity. By referencing personal experiences and historical accounts of rescue, the message highlights how human fellowship serves as a tangible reflection of God's care. Ultimately, the sermon points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate friend who labors with, lifts up, and gives life to believers, urging the congregation to lean on one another while keeping their focus on divine grace.

The sermon emphasizes that enduring relationships must be founded on a shared reverence for God rather than superficial compatibility or worldly conditions. By examining the loyalty between David and Jonathan, the speaker illustrates how mutual fear of the Lord creates an unconditional bond that mirrors heavenly love. The preacher identifies three key markers of such friendships: rejoicing in the presence of other believers, hoping for Scripture daily, and maintaining a heart devoted to God's commands. This theological foundation protects relationships from the high failure rates seen in modern society where connections are often built on transient circumstances. Ultimately, only bonds rooted in Christ possess the permanence and spiritual depth required for true Christian fellowship.

This sermon explores the book of Ecclesiastes, focusing on chapter 3 to illustrate that life consists of various seasons ordained by a sovereign God. The speaker emphasizes that while human perspectives are limited and often filled with confusion, God's timing is perfect and His purposes are ultimately beautiful. Believers are encouraged to stop striving for control and instead find peace through surrender and trust in God's eternal plan. The central message calls the audience to worship God faithfully in every circumstance, whether joyful or painful, recognizing that He walks with them through all of life's transitions.

The sermon uses the biblical account of Job to illustrate how believers should respond to severe trials and personal brokenness. It emphasizes that suffering is inevitable in a fallen world but encourages listeners to maintain trust in God's sovereignty rather than blaming Him or losing faith. By contrasting Job's endurance with Jesus Christ's perfect submission during His own suffering, the message highlights the call to surrender control and rely on divine comfort. The preacher urges the audience to find peace and hope in Scripture, affirming that God remains near to the brokenhearted and will ultimately deliver them from their afflictions.

This sermon explores the biblical book of Job to address the theological challenge of why faithful believers endure suffering without receiving clear explanations from God. The speaker emphasizes that patience is defined as trusting God's character rather than demanding understanding of His specific plans or reasons for hardship. By examining Job's loss and subsequent restoration, the message highlights that God often provides His presence and revelation of sovereignty instead of direct answers to human questions. The preacher encourages the audience to view trials as a means of refining faith and deepening their relationship with Christ, who also suffered innocently. Ultimately, the sermon calls listeners to persevere in trust, affirming that God's goodness remains constant even when circumstances are incomprehensible.

The sermon examines Matthew 9:32-34 to contrast the revelation of Jesus' power with the intentional rejection by religious leaders. It highlights how God uses believers to bring others to Christ while warning against the spiritual blindness that leads to attributing divine works to demonic forces. The preacher encourages Christians to remain faithful in sharing the gospel regardless of immediate results, trusting the Holy Spirit for conversion rather than human intellect. Emphasizing grace and patience, the message calls listeners to rely on prayer and steadfast witness as they navigate opposition. Ultimately, it presents the gospel as the path to true freedom through Jesus' substitutionary atonement and imputed righteousness.

This sermon explores the biblical concept of tough love through the metaphor of iron sharpening iron, illustrating how God uses friction and difficult relationships to refine believers. It emphasizes that true love involves confronting truth rather than merely offering comfort, thereby shaping individuals into the image of Christ. The message highlights the necessity of community, noting that brothers and sisters must speak hard truths to foster spiritual maturity. Additionally, it applies this principle to marriage, describing daily interactions as a process of sharpening that reveals sin and produces grace. Ultimately, the goal is not destruction but growth, enabling believers to bear the fruit of the Spirit and reflect Christ more clearly.

The passage from Matthew 9:27–31 reveals the radical, unconditional faith of two blind men who, despite their physical blindness, recognized Jesus as the Son of David and the true Messiah, crying out for mercy not based on sight but on divine trust. Their faith, rooted in the conviction that Jesus alone could provide healing and salvation, exemplifies a belief that is not contingent on circumstances, but is fully confident in Christ's power and character. This faith is marked by expectation—trusting that God will act according to His will, even when outcomes are not as desired—and is accompanied by an uncontainable excitement that overflows into testimony, despite Jesus' command to remain silent. The sermon underscores that genuine belief in Jesus is a life-transforming commitment that transcends worldly understanding, producing joy, gratitude, and a missionary urgency to share the gospel, even amid suffering, because the believer's hope is anchored in eternal realities, not temporary trials.

The sermon centers on the spiritual blindness of the natural man, illustrated through Jesus' encounter with John the Baptist's disciples who question why His followers do not fast like they and the Pharisees do. Jesus responds with parables—using the bridegroom, a new patch on an old garment, and new wine in old wineskins—to reveal that His presence inaugurates a new covenant of grace, making old religious rituals obsolete. These metaphors underscore that true understanding of Christ comes not through tradition or legalism, but through divine revelation, as only the spiritually awakened can perceive the deeper realities of God's kingdom. The message calls believers to humility, recognizing that their ability to see Christ is not due to personal merit but to God's sovereign grace, and urges them to live in gratitude and dependence on Christ, who alone offers lasting rest and salvation.

Jesus, the true Messiah, intentionally calls sinners like Matthew to follow Him, demonstrating His authority and compassion by transforming lives without requiring moral perfection first. He deliberately fellowship with tax collectors and sinners, not to condone sin, but to offer mercy and healing, revealing that His mission is to draw the broken to Himself, not the self-righteous. Despite opposition from religious leaders who judged His associations as inappropriate, Jesus affirms that He came not for the righteous, but for sinners in need of repentance, quoting Hosea to emphasize that God desires mercy over ritual sacrifice. The sermon underscores that true discipleship involves embracing others without prejudice, reflecting Christ's inclusive love that transcends social, moral, and cultural barriers. Ultimately, Jesus' example calls believers to mirror His heart by reaching out to the marginalized, recognizing that salvation is available to all who acknowledge their need, and that His authority extends to redeeming even the most broken lives.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:73, emphasizing that human existence originates in God's creative hand and is sustained by His intentional design, as affirmed in Genesis and reinforced through anthropomorphic language that reveals God's sovereignty and personal involvement. It highlights that God not only made humanity but also fashioned and completed each person with purpose, establishing them for a life of trust, obedience, and glory to Him. The psalmist's plea for understanding to learn God's commandments arises from this foundational truth: if God created and perfected us, His Word is the ultimate source of wisdom and direction. The sermon calls believers to daily humility, consistent Scripture engagement, and intentional community in the Word, urging a life motivated not by self or recognition, but by the desire to honor God in all things, knowing that true fulfillment comes only through knowing and obeying Him.

The sermon centers on the transformative power of authentic faith, illustrated through Jesus healing a paralyzed man whose friends demonstrated extraordinary perseverance by lowering him through a roof to reach Christ. It emphasizes that genuine faith is revealed not in words alone but in sacrificial action, as seen in the men's persistent effort despite obstacles, which moved Jesus to forgive the man's sins and restore his body. The message contrasts this living faith with the hollow religiosity of the scribes and Pharisees, who, though well-versed in Scripture, rejected Jesus' authority and labeled His divine acts as blasphemy, revealing their hardened hearts. In contrast, the crowd's awe and glorification of God highlight how authentic Christian living—marked by love, humility, and service—can inspire others to recognize God's power and draw them to faith. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to live a life that testifies to Christ's work, knowing that while some will oppose or mock such faith, others will be drawn to God through the consistency and integrity of their witness.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:72, affirming that God's Word—spoken directly from His mouth—is infinitely more valuable than any earthly treasure, such as gold or silver, because it reveals God's character, purpose, and will for humanity. It emphasizes that the Bible, as the inspired, breathed-out revelation of God, surpasses all other sources of truth, including general revelation in nature, by providing the definitive moral and spiritual guidance necessary for a life of worship and obedience. The preacher calls believers to prioritize God's Word through consistent personal Scripture reading, active participation in the gathered church, and intentional fellowship with other believers, all of which cultivate a deep, lasting affection for God's truth. Ultimately, the message is a pastoral exhortation to reorient one's desires and affections so that God's Word becomes more desirable than any earthly pleasure or possession, leading to a life of lasting satisfaction and spiritual fulfillment.

The sermon centers on the transformative power of Jesus Christ, illustrated through the healing of two demon-possessed men in the region of the Gerasenes, demonstrating that true salvation involves a radical inner renewal. It draws a profound connection between this biblical narrative and the spiritual condition of all humanity, emphasizing that all people—regardless of outward appearance—are lost in sin and in need of divine intervention, just as the men were enslaved to demons and lived in tombs. The passage reveals that even the demons, though they recognize Jesus as the Son of God and acknowledge His authority, refuse to submit to Him out of pride, highlighting the tragic reality of spiritual rebellion and the suppression of truth. Jesus alone possesses the power to cast out sin and demonic forces, restoring not only physical health but also a right mind and a new heart, enabling the formerly possessed man to sit at Jesus' feet in worship and devotion. The sermon concludes with a call to live as living testimonies of Christ's work, knowing that such a transformed life will inevitably draw both curiosity and resistance, but that the ultimate mission is to faithfully share the gospel, trusting God to draw people to Himself.

The sermon centers on the disciples' cry for help during a storm, highlighting the tension between their commendable act of seeking Jesus in crisis and their underlying lack of consistent faith. While their instinct to call upon Jesus in distress is right, the passage reveals a deeper issue: their faith is reactive rather than rooted in daily trust, revealing a pattern of approaching God only in desperation. The preacher emphasizes that true discipleship requires faithfulness not just in storms, but in everyday life, calling believers to cultivate a constant, unwavering reliance on Christ. Despite their feeble faith, Jesus responds with mercy, calming the storm and demonstrating His divine authority over nature, which points to His identity as the Son of God. The message culminates in a call to live with consistent faith—trusting God not only in trials, but in the ordinary moments—so that our lives reflect a deep, abiding relationship with Him, not merely transactional dependence.

The sermon presents a transformative perspective on affliction, reframing it not as divine punishment but as divine discipline intended to deepen faith and conform believers to the image of Christ. Drawing from Psalm 119:71, it argues that suffering, though universally perceived as negative, is ultimately good because it reveals hidden sin, cultivates dependence on God, and produces spiritual maturity. The preacher emphasizes that affliction exposes the heart's hidden flaws, much like a trial reveals a person's true character, and that God uses these trials to refine believers, strengthen perseverance, and build enduring hope. Rather than seeking escape from hardship, the believer is called to trust God's redemptive purpose, knowing that temporary suffering is producing an eternal weight of glory. Ultimately, the message calls Christians to live as living testimonies of Christ's peace and grace, especially in trials, so that their lives—marked by forgiveness and resilience—become the most powerful witness to the gospel.

The sermon centers on the cost of genuine discipleship, challenging superficial faith rooted in personal gain or intellectual pride. Drawing from Matthew 8:18–22, it contrasts two individuals who approach Jesus—one a knowledgeable scribe seeking more information, the other a disciple requesting permission to bury his father—both of whom are rebuked for failing to count the true cost of following Christ. The preacher emphasizes that true discipleship requires radical surrender, not head knowledge or convenient excuses, but a daily denial of self and willingness to bear one's cross. Jesus' response to both men reveals that authentic faith is not measured by religious status or emotional justification, but by total commitment to Him, even when it means forsaking comfort, family, or personal desires. The message calls believers to examine their hearts, rejecting the temptation to use legitimate struggles as excuses for spiritual stagnation, and instead embracing a humble, consistent walk with Christ that values eternal gain over temporary satisfaction.

The sermon contrasts two opposing heart conditions: one hardened and self-sufficient, described as 'fat as grease'—symbolizing spiritual dullness, pride, and resistance to correction—and another that is soft, teachable, and deeply joyful in God's Word. Drawing from Psalm 119:70, it emphasizes that the unregenerate heart is calloused, unyielding, and unpleasing to God, much like spoiled or unclean fat unfit for sacrifice, while the believer's heart is characterized by delight in God's love and law. This delight is not passive but active, rooted in Scripture, prayer, and humility, enabling spiritual sensitivity and openness to divine guidance. The message calls listeners to examine their hearts, repent of worldly distractions, and rekindle their joy in God through regular engagement with His Word and intimate communion in prayer, ultimately cultivating a life that is both teachable and transformed.

The sermon centers on Jesus' compassionate pursuit of the sick, exemplified by His healing of Peter's mother-in-law, illustrating that Jesus does not wait for the broken to come to Him but actively enters their suffering, transcending ritual uncleanness and societal barriers. Through this act, Jesus fulfills the prophetic promise of bearing our sicknesses and diseases, revealing His divine authority and mercy, while also inaugurating a new covenant community where healing leads not to isolation but to restoration and service. The restored life, as seen in the mother-in-law's immediate response to serve, reflects the natural outflow of grace—no longer defined by self-interest but by humble, Christ-centered devotion. The message calls believers to live as transformed people whose lives, marked by gratitude and service, become a living testimony to the gospel, embodying the suffering servant identity of Christ and inviting others to encounter God through both word and deed.

The sermon centers on the centurion's profound faith in Matthew 8:5–13, portraying a Gentile military officer whose persistent, humble, and faithful appeal to Jesus exemplifies true discipleship. Through the lens of the Sermon on the Mount, the preacher emphasizes that genuine faith is marked by spiritual poverty, meekness, and a complete dependence on God, contrasting it with the self-reliance and hypocrisy of religious leaders. The centurion's recognition of Jesus' authority—despite his own power—amazes Jesus, who commends him as a model of faith unmatched even among Israel, underscoring that true faith aligns with God's will and results in divine response. The message calls believers to examine their own hearts, rejecting worldly distractions and embracing a faith that trusts God completely, even in suffering, knowing that His purposes are ultimately redemptive and glorifying.

The sermon centers on the reality of false accusation and slander, drawing from Psalm 119:69 and biblical examples of faithful individuals like Joseph, David, Daniel, and Jesus, who endured lies from proud, arrogant people who sought to destroy their reputations. It warns against the natural human impulse to vindicate oneself through defense, social media, or confrontation, emphasizing that such efforts only lead to further shame and reveal a lack of trust in God's sovereignty. Instead, the message calls believers to respond with silence, faith, and reliance on God's promise that He alone will vindicate His people, as affirmed in Scripture such as Isaiah 54:17, Exodus 14:14, and Romans 12:19. The solution is not self-justification but a deep, wholehearted commitment to God's Word, which provides stability, identity, and peace amid injustice. Ultimately, the believer's hope is not in public approval or human justice, but in the eternal, divine justice of God, who will ultimately restore and honor His faithful ones.

Christian Fellowship Assembly: Baptism: Stephanie Payne and Lula Banks The sermon centers on the transformative power of personal faith and the importance of public confession and baptism as acts of obedience and identification with Christ. Drawing from Acts 8, it highlights the eunuch's journey from seeking truth in Scripture to encountering Philip, who guided him to understand Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy, culminating in his immediate baptism. The message emphasizes that salvation is not earned by works or delayed by tradition, but received through faith in Christ, followed by the outward act of baptism as a testimony of inward transformation. The tone is pastoral and celebratory, affirming the spiritual milestone of two individuals who have confessed their faith and now publicly commit to Christ, while underscoring the role of the Holy Spirit in illumination and the church in nurturing discipleship. The service is enriched by hymns that reflect themes of grace, surrender, and divine joy, reinforcing the unity of worship, testimony, and spiritual renewal.

The sermon centers on Matthew 8:1–4, using the encounter between Jesus and a leper to illustrate the heart of true discipleship rooted in the Sermon on the Mount's Beatitudes. It emphasizes that the leper's posture—humble, repentant, and desperate—mirrors the spiritual condition of a believer who recognizes their sin, mourns their brokenness, and earnestly seeks righteousness through faith in Christ. Jesus' act of touching the unclean leper, despite ritual impurity, demonstrates His divine authority and compassion, affirming that true cleansing comes not from religious ritual alone but from divine grace. The man's subsequent disobedience in spreading the news, though well-intentioned, disrupted Jesus' mission, highlighting the need for spiritual maturity and obedience even in moments of joy. Ultimately, the sermon teaches that believers are restored not merely to the old earthly temple but to a far greater, eternal spiritual reality—God's kingdom—where their identity is secure, their sins forgiven, and their inheritance eternal, regardless of present struggles.

The sermon centers on the profound truth that God alone is inherently good, and all goodness flows from His unchanging nature, as affirmed in Psalm 119:68. It argues that while humans may perform good deeds, no one is truly good by nature due to sin, making God the only source of true goodness, which is essential to His very being. The message emphasizes that God's actions—such as delivering His people from exile and sustaining creation—are consistently good, even in a fallen world, because evil arises not from God's creation but from the privation of good through rebellion. The sermon concludes by highlighting that God's Word is the primary means by which believers are reminded of His goodness, especially when life is confusing or painful, calling the audience to cultivate a life of Bible reading, prayer, and church community to continually be taught and reminded of God's enduring goodness.

The sermon centers on the transformative power of divine affliction, using Psalm 119:67 as a lens to explore how suffering, when rightly understood, draws believers into deeper obedience and intimacy with God's Word. It emphasizes that affliction is not punishment but loving discipline from a Father who shapes His children for holiness, pointing ultimately to Christ's own suffering on the cross as the supreme example of God's redemptive purpose. The preacher argues that every trial, while personal, is part of a larger narrative that culminates in Christ's atonement, where God's justice and mercy converge. Through the life of David and the prophetic witness of Isaiah, the message reveals that true spiritual maturity comes not from avoiding pain but from trusting God's Word amid hardship, knowing that He is working all things for the believer's sanctification and ultimate resurrection hope. The tone is both pastoral and profoundly theological, inviting listeners to see their struggles not as random or meaningless, but as divine appointments that deepen faith and point to the eternal victory of Christ.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:66, emphasizing the necessity of a teachable, faithful heart rooted in divine revelation. It calls believers to seek God's wisdom not through self-reliance or worldly judgment, but through humble submission to His commandments, illustrated through the metaphor of discipleship and the biblical concept of 'lamad'—to learn or be taught. The passage highlights that true judgment and knowledge are not derived from human experience or emotion, but from a heart transformed by the Spirit and aligned with God's Word, which reveals sin, points to Christ, and produces lasting change. The preacher underscores that genuine desire for spiritual growth must be accompanied by faith in God's promises and a commitment to obedience, distinguishing between mere intellectual assent and a life shaped by divine truth. Ultimately, the message calls the congregation to examine their hearts: Are they teachable, believing, and faithful—willing to be shaped by God's Word rather than merely discussing it?

The sermon centers on the transformative power of Jesus' authority as revealed in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing that true discipleship begins with a humble recognition of spiritual poverty and a heart broken over sin. The crowd's astonishment at Jesus' teaching—marked by a profound inner disturbance, not mere admiration—reveals the difference between superficial religious tradition and the life-changing weight of divine truth. Unlike the scribes who taught by human tradition and self-justification, Jesus spoke with divine authority, revealing the heart of God's law and exposing the hypocrisy of outward religiosity without inward transformation. The response to this message is not passive; it demands a radical reorientation of the heart, only possible through the work of the Holy Spirit, and warns against the danger of nominal faith—those who claim belief without the inward renewal that marks genuine discipleship. Ultimately, the sermon calls listeners to examine their own hearts, repent of self-righteousness, and respond in obedient faith to the one who speaks with final, divine authority.

Title: The Lord is Good to Us Speaker: Creston Thomas Series: Psalm 119 Date: March 22, 2026 Bible: Psalm 119:65 The sermon centers on the profound goodness of God as revealed in Psalm 119:65, emphasizing that God's faithfulness and kindness are not contingent on human merit but are rooted in His unchanging character and revealed through Scripture. It explores the identity of the Lord's servant—historically possibly David or other biblical figures, but ultimately pointing to all believers as God's servants—highlighting how God's goodness is most fully displayed in the cross, where He sacrificed His Son not because He needed humanity, but to reveal His love and redeem His people. The sermon argues that while God's goodness is evident in creation and daily blessings, the ultimate and definitive source of that goodness is the Bible, which not only reveals God's character but also calls believers to remember, cherish, and meditate on His faithfulness. Through a call to spiritual reflection and biblical remembrance, the message urges listeners to shift their focus from complaint to gratitude, recognizing that God's goodness is eternal, transformative, and most powerfully seen in the promise of a new creation where suffering and sin are no more.

The sermon concludes the Sermon on the Mount by emphasizing that true discipleship is defined not by outward religious activity, but by heartfelt hearing and obedient living in response to Jesus' teachings. Drawing from the parable of the wise and foolish builders, it contrasts those who hear Jesus' words and act on them—building their lives on the unshakable foundation of His truth—with those who hear but do not obey, whose lives rest on the unstable ground of self-reliance and hypocrisy. The message warns that religious zeal, even accompanied by miracles and moral performance, cannot substitute for genuine faith rooted in the Holy Spirit, which enables true understanding and transformation. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to recognize that salvation and spiritual stability come not from personal effort, but from abiding in Christ, whose obedience is imputed to them, and whose word alone provides enduring security amid life's storms.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:64, highlighting God's steadfast love—Hebrew *chesed*—as both revealed in creation and fully embodied in Scripture. It emphasizes that the earth's beauty and order testify to God's faithful, unchanging love, which surpasses human relationships and worldly sources of comfort. The preacher contrasts general revelation in nature with special revelation in the Bible, arguing that while creation points to God's glory, Scripture uniquely reveals His redemptive, sacrificial love—most profoundly in Christ's death for sinners. The call to action is clear: respond to God's steadfast love by immersing oneself in His Word, contemplating creation, and worshiping the faithful Creator, who remains constant even when humanity fails.

The sermon centers on the urgent call to genuine discipleship, warning against superficial faith that mimics true Christianity without transformation. Drawing from the Sermon on the Mount, it emphasizes that true discipleship begins with a new heart marked by humility, repentance, and recognition of one's sinfulness—rooted in the Beatitudes and the reality of divine judgment. It exposes the danger of false believers who claim Christ but live in lawlessness, performing religious acts without the Spirit's presence, and highlights that true identity is not based on profession but on being known by Jesus, who alone can declare, 'I never knew you.' The message calls for authentic faith marked by obedience, dependence on the Holy Spirit, accountability within a genuine community, and daily engagement with Scripture, urging listeners to examine their hearts and embrace a life of surrender, not performance.

This sermon, centered on Psalm 69, presents suffering not as a sign of divine abandonment but as a sacred mark of belonging to God, refining the believer's faith and drawing them closer to Christ. Through David's lament, the preacher illustrates how genuine faith endures trials not through self-reliance but through persistent prayer, repentance, and reliance on God's steadfast love, even amid public shame and personal exhaustion. The message emphasizes that suffering, when embraced in faith, becomes a divine instrument for spiritual growth, mirroring Christ's own sacrifice, where pain is transformed into purpose and redemption. Drawing from Scripture, especially 1 Peter and Philippians, the sermon affirms that suffering for Christ is both a privilege and a testimony, pointing others to the hope found in Jesus' atoning death and resurrection. Ultimately, the believer is called to view trials not as meaningless hardship but as part of a redemptive journey, where God is actively shaping character, deepening devotion, and preparing for eternal glory.

The sermon centers on Jesus' warning in Matthew 7:15–20 about false prophets, interpreting them not merely as external deceivers but as hypocritical religious leaders who outwardly profess faith while lacking genuine spiritual transformation. Drawing from the Sermon on the Mount, it emphasizes that true discipleship is marked by inward humility, repentance, and a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit—qualities absent in those who judge others while harboring unexamined sin. The preacher underscores that such false prophets are recognized not by their words alone, but by their fruit: a life devoid of love, mercy, and integrity, despite religious pretense. The message calls believers to self-examination, humility, and mutual accountability, affirming that while all struggle, the true mark of a believer is a posture of repentance and reliance on Christ, not self-righteousness. Ultimately, the church is called to be salt and light—not through performance, but through a Spirit-led life that reflects Christ's character.

The sermon centers on the biblical call to cultivate intentional, God-honoring friendships rooted in reverence for the Lord and obedience to His precepts, drawing from Psalm 119:63 as a foundation. It emphasizes that while friendship is inherently good—mirroring the relational unity of the Trinity and exemplified in faithful relationships like David and Jonathan—it must be carefully discerned to ensure it fosters spiritual growth rather than compromise. The preacher warns against companionship with those who do not fear God or live by His Word, citing Scripture to show how such relationships lead to spiritual harm, corruption, and distraction from Christ. True friendship, the message insists, is defined by mutual commitment to God's truth, accountability, and encouragement to live righteously, even when it requires sacrifice. Ultimately, the call is to evaluate one's relationships not by comfort or convenience, but by their ability to draw one closer to Christ, urging believers to prioritize fellowship with those who provoke good works and deepen faith.

The sermon centers on the ethical and spiritual imperative of the Golden Rule—treating others as one wishes to be treated—as the culmination of Jesus' teaching on righteous judgment and discipleship in Matthew 7. Rooted in the law and the prophets, this principle is not a universal moral guideline but a distinctive mark of the believer's transformed heart, grounded in love for God and neighbor, and exemplified by Christ's sacrificial love. The message emphasizes that proper judgment begins with self-examination, repentance, and humility, rejecting hypocrisy and self-righteousness in favor of restoration, mercy, and grace. The narrow path of discipleship, though difficult and few in number, leads to life by requiring continual inward transformation, while the broad way of worldly self-interest and condemnation leads to destruction. Ultimately, the Golden Rule is not a rule of self-fulfillment but a call to embody Christ's character in all relationships, reflecting God's love and justice in a broken world.

This sermon, rooted in Matthew 7:7–11, presents a profound call to persistent, heartfelt dependence on God as the essence of authentic discipleship. Centered on the imperative to 'ask, seek, and knock,' it emphasizes that these actions are not mere requests for material blessings but expressions of a desperate, ongoing trust in God's faithfulness, especially in the midst of spiritual struggle and relational brokenness. The preacher underscores that true discipleship begins with inner transformation—heart surgery, as it were—where repentance and a renewed heart precede righteous living, enabling believers to judge others not with condemnation but with Christlike humility and discernment. The passage is not a promise of worldly prosperity, but a divine assurance that God, as a loving Father, will give good spiritual gifts—especially the grace to be restored, to discern rightly, and to love others sacrificially—when believers come before Him in humility and persistent prayer. Ultimately, the sermon calls the church to a life of weeping prayer for the lost, self-examination, and reliance on God's perfect provision, proving His faithfulness through the very nature of His fatherly love.

The sermon centers on Psalm 46:10, emphasizing that true peace comes from knowing God as the eternal, sovereign, and triune Creator who is both transcendent and personally present. It challenges common misconceptions about God—such as modalism, partialism, and subordinationism—while affirming His unity, holiness, omnipresence, and personal care. Through biblical examples of human failure and divine faithfulness, the message underscores that trust in God is rooted not in human perfection but in His redemptive work through Christ, who bore the penalty for sin. The call to 'be still' is presented not as passive inaction but as a posture of surrender, recognizing God's sovereignty and trusting His character amid life's turmoil. Ultimately, the sermon invites listeners to know God personally, to trust Him in all circumstances, and to respond with faith, obedience, and continual seeking.

The sermon centers on the psalmist's profound devotion to God, exemplified by rising at midnight to give thanks for His righteous judgments, illustrating that true worship is timeless and unceasing. It emphasizes that believers, like the Levitical priests consumed by the temple, should be continually preoccupied with God's Word, which is righteous, eternal, and the foundation of a life aligned with divine truth. The preacher calls the congregation to reject worldly comparisons and cultivate a heart of gratitude in all circumstances, recognizing that God's justice, even in trials, is always right and redemptive. Through practical exhortations—daily Bible reading, faithful church attendance, and engagement with biblical resources—the message urges believers to be consumed by God's Word, cherishing it above all else and allowing it to transform their hearts and lives.

This sermon, rooted in Matthew 7:6, presents a nuanced understanding of Christian witness and discernment, emphasizing that believers are entrusted with sacred spiritual truths—symbolized by 'holy things' and 'pearls'—which must be protected from those who reject or misuse them. Drawing on the metaphor of dogs and swine, the message identifies nominal believers, particularly religious hypocrites like the Pharisees, as those who have heard the gospel yet scorn or distort it, making it unwise to persist in sharing it with them. The central teaching is not a call to abandon evangelism, but to exercise biblical discernment: while the gospel is to be proclaimed widely, once it is rejected by someone who has heard it, believers are to withdraw with grace, dusting off their feet as Jesus instructed, without coercion or futile debate. The sermon underscores that judgment within the church is restorative and rooted in repentance, while outside the church, believers are not to judge but to trust God's sovereign work in hearts, using wisdom to steward the gospel with care and purpose.