A collection of Sermons from First Baptist Church of Augusta
5-25-2025The sermon reflects on the promises Jesus made to his disciples in John 14, offering hope and encouragement for both their journey and ours today. It highlights four key promises: Jesus prepares a place for us in the Father's house, symbolizing redemption and belonging; He sends the Holy Spirit as a helper, teacher, and reminder of His words; He assures us we will not be left as orphans, restoring the way to life and truth lost in Eden; and He grants us divine peace that surpasses worldly peace. Mark Hampton connects these promises to the struggles and distractions of life, likening them to a road trip where the ultimate destination is the Father's house. The sermon encourages listeners to cling to these promises, find hope in the journey, and live in anticipation of being welcomed into God's eternal household.
5-18-2025The message emphasizes living in the light of Jesus' teachings, particularly as graduates embark on new chapters in life. It highlights the Great Commission from Matthew 28:16-20, where Jesus declares His authority over heaven and earth, calls His followers to make disciples, and assures them of His constant presence. Will Dyer encourages graduates and all listeners to recognize Jesus as the most brilliant teacher, embrace His counter-cultural values of grace, humility, and sacrifice, and live as His disciples by embodying His teachings in daily life. Ultimately, the message underscores the importance of worshiping Jesus with the whole of one's life, trusting in His guidance, and sharing His love with the world.
The sermon reflects on the story of the road to Emmaus, emphasizing the transformative power of radical hospitality and the recognition of Jesus in unexpected moments. It highlights how Cleopas and another traveler, despite their grief, invited a stranger (Jesus) into their home, embodying the ancient Jewish value of welcoming strangers. Through the breaking of bread, their eyes were opened, shifting from fear to joy, symbolizing new creation and life through Christ. The message challenges Christians to embrace empathy, generosity, and kindness, countering the self-centeredness of modern culture. It calls for a renewed perspective, urging believers to see the world through Jesus' eyes, filled with grace and possibility, and to extend radical hospitality to others. The sermon concludes with a prayer for spiritual awakening and the courage to follow Jesus into a life of hope and transformation.
The message explores the story of Thomas, often labeled "doubting Thomas," to challenge the notion that doubt is the opposite of faith. Instead, it argues that indifference, not doubt, is the true opposite of faith. Doubt is presented as a divine invitation to deeper understanding and connection with God. Using examples from scripture, including Thomas, David, Moses, and even Jesus, the speaker emphasizes that questioning and wrestling with doubt are integral to the journey of faith. Jesus does not reprimand Thomas for his doubt but invites him to experience and believe, leading Thomas to proclaim Jesus as "My Lord and my God." Will Dyer encourages embracing doubt as an opportunity for growth and joy, urging believers to bring their questions and struggles to God, who is big enough to meet them in their uncertainties.
4-28-2025Will DyerThe sermon reflects on the post-resurrection story from John 20:19-31, emphasizing the disciples' transition from fear to joy through Jesus' presence. Despite their initial fear and isolation, Jesus appears among them, offering peace and breathing new life into them through the Holy Spirit. The message highlights the distinction between being scared and living in fear, urging listeners to trust in Jesus' transformative power to overcome fear and anxiety. It underscores the biblical command "Don't be afraid," repeated 365 times, and invites individuals to reflect on areas in their lives where they need Jesus to bring renewal and flourishing. The sermon concludes with a call to embrace the new life offered by Christ, moving from fear to hope and living as God intended.
The Challenge of ActsN.T. WrightIn this session, Will Dyer reflects on the significance of the resurrection as the central tenet of Christian faith, emphasizing its revolutionary implications for the church and creation. They provide a detailed overview of Acts chapters 25-28, highlighting Paul's trials before Festus and Agrippa, his journey to Rome, and his unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel despite challenges. Key themes include the resurrection's transformative power, the call for large-scale reconciliation, the inevitability of opposition when advancing the gospel, and the innocence and worthiness of the gospel message. Will Dyer concludes by underscoring that the story of Acts is not about Paul but about Jesus' continued work through the gospel, challenging listeners to prioritize faithfulness to the gospel over personal achievements. The session ends with a prayer for strength, trust in God's guidance, and gratitude for Jesus' resurrection.
Luke 24:1-12The sermon emphasizes the central message of Easter: the resurrection of Jesus Christ and its transformative power. It challenges cultural distractions that dilute the significance of Easter, such as focusing on traditions like egg hunts or family meals, and instead calls attention to the profound truth that Jesus' resurrection signifies victory over death, hope, and new life. Will Dyer highlights that Easter is not merely about individual salvation or escaping this world but about God's restoration and renewal of creation, starting here and now. Through the resurrection, Jesus is affirmed as the King, offering joy, purpose, and grace. The sermon invites listeners to reflect on where they seek life and challenges them to embrace the resurrection as an objective reality that changes the world and their lives.
4-13-2025Philip HedgecothThe sermon reflects on the story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, emphasizing the contrast between his humble arrival on a donkey and the Roman governor's intimidating procession with soldiers. It explores the hope and courage of the crowd proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah, despite the risks of opposition from religious and political powers. Jesus' mission is portrayed as one of love, justice, and compassion, challenging oppressive systems without violence. The narrative connects this to modern struggles for justice, such as the civil rights movement, and calls readers to embody Jesus' humility and love in facing today's challenges. It concludes by highlighting Jesus' ultimate sacrifice on the cross and the transformative power of God's love, urging followers to proclaim his name and join his mission of peace and restoration.
4-6-2025Will DyerThe message reflects on the story of Mary and Judas from John 12:1-8, contrasting their actions and motivations. Mary is portrayed as a model of devotion, risking social norms and personal cost to worship Jesus by anointing his feet with expensive perfume and wiping them with her hair, symbolizing her deep love and commitment. In contrast, Judas is depicted as a tragic figure who followed Jesus for selfish reasons, initially hoping for a violent revolution and later for personal gain. The message challenges readers to examine their own motivations for following Jesus, emphasizing that true faith is not about personal benefit but about being in the presence of Jesus and aligning with his teachings. The goal of faith, as exemplified by Mary, is to wholeheartedly seek Jesus for who he is, not for what one might gain.
April 2 2025The discussion focused on the latter chapters of the Book of Acts, highlighting Paul's journey to Jerusalem despite repeated warnings of persecution. Paul's unwavering commitment to the gospel, even at great personal cost, was emphasized as a model of faithfulness. Will Dyer contrasted modern Western Christianity's focus on prosperity with Paul's willingness to suffer for his mission. Key themes included the challenges of proclaiming the gospel in a changing cultural landscape, the importance of embracing God's timing, and the need for churches to avoid inward-focused preservation and instead boldly embrace God's movement. The session also touched on Paul's interactions with Jewish and Roman authorities, his imprisonment in Caesarea, and his proclamation of the resurrection as the foundation of Christian hope. Will Dyer encouraged the audience to reflect on their own faithfulness and passion for the gospel.
3-30-2025Will DyerThe message is reflecting on the parable of the prodigal son from Luke 15:11-32. It emphasizes the themes of grace, forgiveness, and the unconditional love of God. Will Dyer. discusses how both the younger and older sons represent different aspects of human nature and our relationship with God. The younger son symbolizes those who stray and return, while the older son represents those who follow rules but struggle with accepting grace for others. The sermon challenges listeners to consider their own attitudes and encourages them to embrace the inclusive love and celebration that God offers to all, regardless of their past. The message concludes with an invitation to communion, highlighting the importance of recognizing God's love and grace in our lives.
3-26-2025The study discusses Acts chapter seventeen verses sixteen through thirty-four, focusing on Paul's speech in Athens before the Areopagus. Will Dyer explains that Paul's speech was not merely a philosophical conversation but a legal defense against the accusation of introducing foreign divinities, which could lead to his execution. Paul uses the altar to the unknown God to argue that he is not introducing new gods but explaining the true nature of the God they already acknowledge in ignorance. The discussion highlights the pervasive idolatry in ancient Athens and draws parallels to modern-day idolatry, such as the worship of money, sexuality, and power. Will Dyer emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the idols in our own lives and understanding the nearness of God and His promise to restore the world through Jesus' resurrection.
March 23, 2025Will DyerThe message focuses on the concept of repentance as central to the teachings of Jesus. Will Dyer reflects on the historical context of Luke 13:1-9, where Jesus calls for repentance in response to the violent actions of Pilate against Galileans. The sermon emphasizes that repentance is not merely about confessing sins for the afterlife but involves a profound change in mindset and direction in one's current life. Will Dyer critiques the modern tendency to view God as a cosmic therapist catering to personal desires, urging the congregation to realign their priorities and ask what God wants from them rather than what they want from God. The call to repentance is presented as an invitation to embody the true gospel of Jesus, live into the fullness of God's creation, and become the people God intends them to be.
3-16-2025Will DyerThe message reflects on the second week of Lent, focusing on Jesus' journey to the cross and the significance of his ministry. It discusses a passage from Luke 13:31-35, where Jesus is warned by Pharisees that Herod wants to kill him. Jesus responds by calling Herod a "fox," indicating a fake or fraud, and asserts his commitment to continue his work. The message delves into the historical context of Herod Antipas, his background, and his role as a puppet ruler of Rome. It highlights the revolutionary nature of Jesus' ministry, which challenged the status quo and offered an alternative way of living. Will Dyer emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus' kingdom, which is not from this world but is for this world, and encourages readers to reflect during Lent on their own lives and choices, urging them to follow Jesus' path to abundant life.
3-12-2025Will Dyer The Challenge of Acts by N.T. WrightThe meeting focused on discussing Acts 17 through 20, highlighting the theological and political issues raised by Paul's central message. The discussion emphasized the tension between Paul's proclamation of Jesus as the true king, which challenged the authority of Caesar, and the resulting opposition and riots. The group examined Paul's experiences in Thessalonica, Corinth, and Ephesus, noting how his teachings stirred controversy among Jews and Romans. In Thessalonica, Paul faced charges of declaring another king, Jesus, which threatened the Roman order. In Corinth, Paul was accused of teaching illegal worship practices, but the Roman governor Gallio dismissed the charges, granting Christians a religious exemption. This led to complacency among the Corinthian church. The discussion concluded with reflections on the implications of these historical contexts for contemporary Christian practice, particularly the need to balance political engagement with ultimate allegiance to Jesus.
3-9-2025Will DyerThe sermon discusses the temptations Jesus faced in the wilderness, emphasizing that these temptations—appetite, attention, and ambition—are similar to those we encounter in our lives. The primary temptation for Jesus was to doubt his identity as God's son, a challenge that resonates with us today. Will Dyer stresses the importance of knowing our identity as children of God, which is rooted not in our actions but in the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. By understanding and embracing this identity, we can resist the temptations of Satan and live well. The sermon calls for introspection and a reaffirmation of our identity in Christ, urging listeners to remember that they are beloved children of God.
2-26-2024Will DyerThe Challenge of Acts by N.T. WrightThe discussion focuses on Acts chapters 13 through 16, particularly the persecution of Paul and the early church, rooted in historical and sociopolitical contexts. Will Dyer highlights a significant shift in religious trends in America, noting a recent Pew Research study showing a halt in the decline of religious faith, with a slight uptick among late millennials. Will Dyer explains Paul's mission, emphasizing that his teachings about Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel led to conflicts with both Jewish and Roman authorities. The cultural framework of the first century, where Jews had a religious exemption from sacrificing to Roman gods, is crucial to understanding the hostility Paul faced. The Jerusalem conference in Acts 15 is highlighted as a pivotal moment, officially welcoming Gentiles into the Christian faith without requiring them to follow Jewish law, thus expanding the church's inclusivity.
2-23-2025Matthew 15:29-39Will DyerThe sermon emphasizes the concept of God's abundant generosity, contrasting it with the common human mindset of scarcity. Using the story from Matthew 15, where Jesus feeds 4,000 people with seven loaves and a few fish, Will Dyer illustrates how Jesus views the world as filled with God's limitless grace and resources. The disciples, despite witnessing Jesus' miracles, still default to a scarcity mindset, suggesting to send the crowd away. The sermon challenges listeners to adopt Jesus' perspective of abundance, both in their personal lives and as a community, and to trust in God's provision. The message concludes with an invitation to partake in communion, symbolizing the abundant generosity of God.
2-19-2025Will DyerThe Challenge Of Acts By N.T WrightThe meeting transcript discusses a study session on Acts chapters 9 through 12, highlighting key events and themes. The discussion of Saul (Paul) on the road to Damascus, emphasizing that Paul's experience was not a conversion from Judaism to Christianity but a redefinition of God's people around Jesus. Will Dyer also touches on the importance of suffering in the Christian faith, the role of Ananias in Paul's story, and the growth of the early church despite persecution. Additionally, Peter's vision and encounter with Cornelius are discussed, illustrating the breaking of traditional Jewish boundaries and the inclusion of Gentiles in the Christian community. The session concludes with reflections on the church's mission to embody renewed humanity and the importance of obeying God over societal pressures.
Luke 10:38-422-16-2025Philip HodgecothThe sermon focuses on the importance of asking deep, meaningful questions and finding answers in scripture, particularly through the story of Martha and Mary from the Gospel of Luke. Philip Hedgecoth emphasizes that while Martha was busy with tasks, Mary chose to sit and listen to Jesus, which Jesus described as the "better part." This story is used to illustrate the value of prioritizing spiritual growth and learning from Jesus over being consumed by cultural expectations and daily distractions. The sermon also touches on the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount, highlighting the blessings of being poor in spirit, mourning, meekness, and mercy. The overall message encourages listeners to seek a deeper connection with Jesus and to embody his teachings in their lives.
2-12-2025Will DyerThe Challenge of Acts By N.T. WrightThe discussion covers Acts chapters five through eight, focusing on the themes of mission and martyrdom. The speaker, Will Dyer, begins with a personal anecdote about a communication mishap with the Richmond County School System, which transitions into a deeper exploration of the early church's experiences as described in Acts. Key points include the story of Ananias and Sapphira, who were punished for lying about their donation, highlighting the seriousness of treating holy things with reverence. The narrative continues with Peter's miraculous healings, the apostles' imprisonment and subsequent release, and their defiance of temple authorities by continuing to preach about Jesus. The internal conflict between Hellenistic and Hebraic Jews over the distribution of resources is addressed by appointing deacons, emphasizing the church's dual role of internal care and external evangelism. Stephen's martyrdom is discussed, noting his radical act of forgiveness and the broader implications for the church's mission. The spread of the gospel to Samaria and the story of Simon the magician underscore the challenges and corrupting influence of money on the church's witness. The session concludes with reflections on the church's purpose, the importance of financial stewardship, and a call to live out the gospel with integrity and generosity.
2-5-2025Will DyerThe Challenge of Acts by N.T. WrightThe discussion focuses on the early chapters of the Book of Acts, particularly the significance of Pentecost and the choosing of Matthias as the twelfth apostle. Will Dyer emphasizes the importance of the number twelve, representing the twelve tribes of Israel, and the role of the apostles in fulfilling God's promises to Abraham. The event of Pentecost is highlighted as the moment when the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples, marking the birth of the church and symbolizing God's return to dwell among His people. Will Dyer also draws parallels between the events in Acts and the Gospel of Luke, noting that the same power that enabled Jesus to perform miracles now resides in the church. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the church's mission to be a blessing to the world and a practical example of this mission through the establishment of endowments to support local ministries.
1-29-2025Will DyerThe Challenge of Acts By N.T. WrightThe study session focused on the book of Acts, emphasizing its significance in understanding the kingdom of God and the active role of Jesus in the present. Will Dyer highlighted that Acts covers thirty years in 28 chapters, detailing the movement of Jesus as Israel's Messiah and the proclamation of his lordship over all creation. The discussion underscored that Jesus is not just a historical figure or a distant heavenly presence but is actively involved in the world today. The study also explored the themes of the resurrection and ascension of Jesus, asserting that these events signify the inauguration of God's kingdom on earth. Will Dyer encouraged a rethinking of traditional views on faith, emphasizing the physical resurrection and the ultimate restoration of all things, aligning with biblical teachings. The session concluded with a call to the church to announce Jesus' lordship and embody his kingdom through acts of love and service.
2-9-2025Matthew 7:10Will DyerThe sermon focuses on understanding the nature of God as a good and loving father, as described by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. Will Dyer emphasizes that the words we use to describe God shape our perception and relationship with Him. By examining passages from Matthew 7:7-11 and the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15, the sermon highlights that God desires to give good gifts to His children and welcomes them with open arms, regardless of their past mistakes. Will Dyer encourages the congregation to trust in Jesus' depiction of God as a benevolent father, which can transform their lives and relationships. The sermon concludes with a call to embrace this understanding of God to live well and experience His love and goodness.
2-2-2025 Matthew 16:13-20 Will Dyer The sermon focuses on the importance of the question Jesus asked His disciples in Matthew 16:13-20, "Who do you say that I am?" Will Dyer emphasizes that this question is crucial for shaping one's life and faith. He discusses how people often have varying opinions about Jesus, ranging from seeing Him as a great teacher to recognizing Him as the Son of God. The sermon highlights the significance of Peter's declaration that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the living God, and encourages listeners to consider their own answer to this question. Will Dyer stresses that understanding and acknowledging Jesus' true identity is essential for a meaningful and transformative faith.
Will Dyer 1-26-2025 The sermon, based on Psalm 13, explores the theme of prayer as a path to a deep and meaningful relationship with God. It emphasizes that prayer is not just for moments of joy and celebration but also for times of despair and brokenness. Will Dyer reflects on personal experiences of learning to pray and the importance of honesty and vulnerability in prayer. Psalm 13, a short yet powerful psalm by King David, is highlighted for its raw expression of anguish and trust in God's faithfulness. The sermon encourages believers to rely on God's past faithfulness to navigate present challenges and to trust in His steadfast love. The message concludes with an invitation to take communion, remembering Jesus' sacrifice as a testament to God's enduring goodness and faithfulness.
Job 38:4 1-19-2025 Will Dyer The sermon, part of an eight-week series on deep questions of faith, explores the age-old question of why a good and powerful God allows bad things to happen. Using the story of Job from the Bible, Will Dyer illustrates that Job, despite his suffering and loss, never blames God but instead questions the reasons behind his misfortunes. Job's friends wrongly attribute his suffering to his own sins, reflecting a common but flawed belief that bad things happen as a direct result of personal wrongdoing. The sermon emphasizes that while we may never understand why bad things happen, we should trust in God's goodness and look for the beauty and growth that can emerge from our brokenness. Will Dyer also references Jesus' teachings, highlighting that suffering is not always a result of sin and that God can bring good out of tragic circumstances. The message concludes with a call to trust in God's goodness and to seek what positive outcomes can arise from our trials.
Exodus 3:7-12 Will Dyer 1-12-2025 The sermon focuses on the story of Moses and the burning bush from Exodus chapter 3, emphasizing that God calls individuals to significant tasks despite their doubts and past failures. Will Dyer highlights that Moses, despite encountering God directly, questioned his own worthiness and ability to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The sermon draws parallels between Moses' experience and our own lives, suggesting that God calls each of us to act beyond our comfort zones and past experiences. It underscores that God's presence and support are more important than our abilities, and challenges listeners to consider what God is calling them to do in their current season of life, recognizing that every moment holds divine potential.
Great Question: The Sacred Art of Asking Questions "Where are you ?" Genesis 3:6-10 Will Dyer 1-5-2025 Will Dyer introduces a new nine-week series , leading up to Lent, focusing on the questions we ask of God and those God asks of us. He begins by reading Genesis 3:6-13, recounting the story of Adam and Eve's disobedience and God's question, "Where are you?" The sermon emphasizes the importance of asking deep, provocative questions in our faith journey, challenging the notion that doubt is the opposite of faith. Instead, it suggests that indifference is the true opposite of faith. Will Dyer reflects on the human tendency to scapegoat and avoid responsibility, as seen in Adam and Eve's responses. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to own their brokenness, turn to Jesus, and recognize that God's grace, through Jesus, offers redemption and eternal life.
Psalms 98 12-22-2024 Will Dyer The sermon focuses on the concept of joy, particularly as it relates to the Christmas season and the song "Joy to the World." Will Dyer emphasizes that joy is fundamentally different from happiness, which is fleeting and often tied to material or temporary circumstances. True joy, according to the sermon, is a deep, enduring state that comes from recognizing and accepting Jesus as Lord and King, and aligning one's life with His teachings. The sermon references Psalm 98 and the writings of CS Lewis and Tim Keller to illustrate that joy is rooted in the assurance of God's presence and faithfulness. Will Dyer encourages the congregation to seek joy through a relationship with Jesus, which sustains them through both good times and challenges, and to understand that this joy is available to all of creation. The sermon concludes with a call to embrace this joy and live a life transformed by Jesus' grace.
Luke 2:8-20 12-15-2025 Will Dyer The sermon focuses on the story from Luke 2:8-20, emphasizing the announcement of Jesus' birth by the angels to the shepherds. Will Dyer highlights the common misconceptions about the appearance of angels and contrasts them with the biblical depiction from Ezekiel. The central message is the proclamation of peace by the angels, which is not merely the absence of conflict but the profound biblical concept of "shalom" – universal flourishing, wholeness, and delight. The sermon stresses that true peace, as announced by the angels, is available to those on whom God's favor rests, and it comes exclusively through faith in Jesus Christ. Will Dyer encourages the congregation to embrace this peace and reject the materialistic and consumer-driven distractions of the holiday season, urging them to trust in Jesus for a life of true peace and fulfillment.
Isaiah 11:1-9 12-8-2024 Will Dyer The sermon focuses on the significance of Advent, emphasizing its dual nature: the celebration of Jesus Christ's first coming at Christmas and the anticipation of His second coming. Will Dyer reads from Isaiah 11:1-9, highlighting the prophecy of a future king who will bring justice and peace. The sermon underscores the importance of recognizing that God is with us, as symbolized by the name Emmanuel, and encourages believers to celebrate, wait, and work during the Advent season. Will Dyer calls for introspection and preparation for Jesus' return, urging the congregation to live in a way that reflects the hope and peace of God's kingdom. The message concludes with a prayer for God's presence and guidance in living out these principles.
Luke 2:1-21 Matt Hester 12-1-2024 The sermon focuses on the story of Jesus' birth as recounted in Luke chapter 2, emphasizing the humble and unexpected circumstances of the event. Matt Hester reflects on how the Christmas season begins and the various traditions people have, but ultimately highlights the importance of understanding and believing in the true meaning of Christmas. The birth of Jesus, marked by humility and simplicity, serves as a reminder that God often works through the most unlikely situations and people. The sermon encourages believers to see the holiness in everyday moments and to trust that God can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. It concludes with a call to embrace the unexpected and to live with faith and trust in God's presence and purpose.
11-24-2024 Will Dyer The sermon focuses on living as people of gratitude and grace, emphasizing the importance of treating others with kindness, generosity, and humility. It begins by referencing Philippians 2:3-4, which encourages believers to consider others as superior and look after their interests. Will Dyer highlights the upcoming Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving celebrations, noting that these gatherings often include people we may not enjoy being around. The sermon draws on teachings from rabbis Hillel and Shammai, as well as Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, to illustrate the principle of treating others as we would like to be treated, known as the Golden Rule. Will Dyer stresses that proper thinking, rooted in understanding our own brokenness and the grace we've received from Jesus, leads to proper living. By adopting the mindset of Christ, who humbled himself for humanity's sake, believers can extend grace and generosity to others, transforming their relationships and interactions. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize and embrace the grace of God, which enables us to live with a thankful heart and in right relationships with others.
11-17-2024 Will Dyer The sermon focuses on the importance of living with a posture of gratitude and generosity, emphasizing that Thanksgiving should be more than just a preamble to Christmas. Will Dyer reads Psalm 136, highlighting God's enduring love and goodness. He explains that understanding God's fundamental nature as loving and kind is crucial for living a thankful life. The sermon encourages believers to recognize God's goodness in all aspects of life, from creation to daily provisions, and ultimately through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Will Dyer urges the congregation to live with gratitude every day, trusting in God's steadfast love and expressing thankfulness for His blessings.
11-10-2024 Will Dyer The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing and engaging in spiritual warfare as described by Paul in Ephesians 6:10-24. Will Dyer highlights that the battle is not against other people but against spiritual forces and principalities. He encourages the congregation to put on the full armor of God, which includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of justice, shoes ready to spread the good news of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God's word. The sermon underscores the need to root one's identity in Jesus and remember who He is and what He has done. Will also addresses the cultural tendency to place oneself at the center of the universe and urges the congregation to resist this by centering their lives on Jesus. The ultimate message is to find life and identity in Jesus, leading to a faithful and fulfilling existence.
11-3-2024 Will Dyer 11-3-2024 Will DyerIn this sermon, Will Dyer addresses the intersection of faith and politics, emphasizing the importance of approaching political decisions through the lens of Jesus' teachings. Initially planned to discuss marriage and household codes from Paul's letter to the Ephesians, the speaker pivots to focus on the upcoming election day. Using the story from Matthew 22:15-22, where Jesus is asked about paying taxes to Caesar, the speaker highlights Jesus' wisdom in navigating politically charged questions without falling into binary choices. The sermon encourages believers to prioritize their allegiance to Jesus and the kingdom of God over political affiliations, urging them to reject divisive binaries and embrace a more inclusive, Christ-centered perspective. The Will Dyer concludes by reminding the congregation that while political participation is important, it should not overshadow their primary commitment to following Jesus and embodying his teachings in all aspects of life.
10/27/2024 Will Dyer The sermon, part of a series on Ephesians, focuses on practical aspects of Christian living as outlined by Paul in Ephesians 5:11-20. Will Dyer emphasizes the importance of living wisely and making the most of every opportunity in a world filled with wickedness. He highlights how music, particularly hymns and spiritual songs, can deeply influence our minds and hearts, encouraging believers to fill their lives with positive, God-honoring content. The sermon underscores that following Jesus is a lifelong journey that impacts every area of life, not just a one-time decision. It calls for self-examination and intentional living, urging believers to be small working models of new creation, reflecting God's goodness in all they do. The message concludes with an invitation to partake in communion, reminding the congregation of Jesus' sacrifice and the transformative power of His love.
10-20-2024 Will Dyer In this sermon, Will Dyer discusses the transformative power of the book of Ephesians, particularly focusing on Ephesians 4:1-24. He emphasizes that Christians are called to live in a way that reflects the grace and love they have received through Jesus Christ. This involves embodying virtues such as humility, patience, and forgiveness, which were countercultural in the ancient world and remain so today. Will warns against turning these virtues into a checklist for earning God's love, stressing that God's love is unconditional. He also highlights the importance of living out these virtues in a divisive and polarized world, urging the congregation to be a countercultural force for good. The sermon concludes with a call to action for Christians to live up to their calling and change the world through the gospel.
Will DyerWednesday Night Book Study Week 6" Losing Our Religion" By Russell Moore The podcast discusses the need for revival within the evangelical church, emphasizing that true revival is not about returning to a nostalgic past but moving forward with a deeper connection to the roots of the faith. Will Dyer critiques the idea of choosing the "lesser of two evils" in politics, highlighting that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. He stresses the importance of maintaining moral integrity and not aligning the church too closely with political candidates. Will Dyer also underscores the need for new communities and friendships that stretch our understanding of faith and the importance of genuine prayer. He warns against superficial revivals that seek to restore past norms and instead advocates for a revival that addresses the root causes of moral and spiritual issues, aiming for a future renewal that is in deep continuity with the past but looks strikingly different.
9-15-2024 Will Dyer The sermon is centered around Paul's letter to the church in Ephesus, emphasizing the power and hope found in Jesus Christ. In Will Dyers message he highlights the importance of faith, wisdom, and understanding Jesus' rule over all creation. Drawing parallels between the resurrection of Jesus and the transformative power it holds for individuals, the sermon encourages listeners to trust in God's ability to bring change and hope into their lives. By believing in the resurrection and the power of God, individuals can overcome struggles, find purpose, and live with freedom and grace. The message urges a shift from cynicism to embracing the truth that what is true of Jesus is also true for believers, offering a path to personal transformation and a deeper connection with God.
9-11-2024 Led By Will Dyer "Losing our Religion" Led by Russell Moore This session stresses the importance of maintaining integrity and moral character, especially in the context of political and religious leadership. Will Dyer emphasizes prioritizing long-term integrity over short-term success, paying attention to the means and not just the ends, expecting better from institutions like the church, protecting one's conscience, and focusing on the fruit of the spirit as qualifications for Christian leaders. The message underscores the dangers of moral relativism, the scapegoat mechanism, and the need to root oneself in the gospel rather than aligning with a particular political party. Ultimately, it highlights the significance of upholding Christian values and character in a world where compromise and power often overshadow moral principles.
9-8-2024 Will Dyer The sermon focuses on the beginning of a new series based on Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus, emphasizing the transformative power of immersing oneself in scripture. Will Dyer highlights the importance of understanding one's identity in Christ, drawing parallels between Jesus and believers to signify that what is true of Jesus is true of them. The sermon stresses the communal aspect of faith, calling for a collective reflection of God's goodness and grace in the world. Ultimately, the message encourages individuals to assess whether their lives reflect the transformative impact of being in Christ, inviting them to embrace this identity and live accordingly.
9-8-2024 Led By Will Dyer Losing Our Religion by Russell Moore This week discusses the dangers of tribalism within evangelical Christianity, emphasizing the shift from focusing on the gospel to adopting tribal identities. It highlights the importance of maintaining core Christian beliefs, rejecting secularization, avoiding dehumanizing language, sharing the gospel, fostering community, appreciating the wonder of creation, and being at peace with not aligning with a specific tribe. The message underscores the need to prioritize faith in Christ over political allegiances to prevent tribalism from overshadowing the essence of Christianity and risking the loss of the gospel's central message and individual souls.
Mark Hampton 9-1-2024 Luke 14:12-24 The sermon is based on a parable from Luke chapter 14, where Jesus challenges the traditional notions of hospitality and social interactions. Mark Hampton emphasizes the importance of reassessing priorities and relationships, urging listeners to extend invitations to those who are often neglected or marginalized, such as the poor, crippled, blind, and lame. By highlighting the inversion of societal norms in the kingdom of God, the sermon underscores the need to welcome all without discrimination. It calls for radical hospitality, reminding individuals to consider who is not at their table and to extend invitations beyond their immediate circles. Ultimately, the message conveys the transformative power of inclusion and acceptance, reflecting Christ's unconditional invitation to all.
8-28-2024 Led By Will Dyer " Losing our Religion" By Russell Moore The message discusses the importance of truth, particularly in the context of the church and society's current state of divisiveness and tribalism. It emphasizes the need to prioritize truth over power, avoid being swayed by divisive narratives, and question authority that strays from the Christian gospel. Will Dyer urges individuals to maintain attention, tell the truth, avoid foolish controversies, refrain from self-censorship, question authority that contradicts the gospel, and immerse themselves in the Bible to stay grounded in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Ultimately, the study highlights the risk of losing the church's credibility and soul when prioritizing power over truth, stressing the significance of a genuine and truthful witness to the world.
8-25-2024 Will Dyer Matthew 6:19-24 The sermon begins by quoting Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing the importance of not storing up earthly treasures but focusing on heavenly treasures. Will Dyer discusses two stories, one about a French actor wanting to be buried with his dog and another about a wealthy man wanting to be buried with his money, highlighting the significance of money and materialism in our lives. The sermon delves into the idea that money is not neutral but can shape our desires and values, ultimately reflecting our hearts. It stresses the need to think deeply about money, not out of guilt but to become better followers of Jesus. The core values of worship, growth, service, and giving are highlighted, with an emphasis on giving not to earn grace but as a response to experiencing God's grace. Will Dyer concludes with a call to reflect on how money influences our hearts and to align our values with the gospel.
Led by Will Dyer " Losing Our Religion" by Russell Moore The message delved into the crisis within American evangelicalism, drawing attention to Russell Moore's book "Losing Our Religion." It highlighted how the church's credibility has been compromised through political alignments, biased defenses, and a departure from the true gospel message. Emphasizing the importance of embracing disillusionment, the discussion viewed the current apocalyptic moment as an opportunity for transformative change. It underscored the repercussions of straying from the sacred teachings of the Gospel and aimed to inspire individuals to introspect, realign with the core values of the Gospel, and progress in a more genuine and faithful manner.
8-18-2024 Will Dyer Mark 9:33-37 The sermon delivered focused on the significance of service as a fundamental value for followers of Jesus Christ. It highlighted that genuine greatness stems from serving others, including those who may not be able to reciprocate. Drawing inspiration from the life of Jesus, who exemplified a life of service and love for all, the speaker emphasized the importance for Christians to ground themselves in serving others. Will Dyer conveyed that serving is not merely about self-gratification but a response to the love and grace demonstrated by Jesus. He urged individuals to contemplate where they are being called to serve by God, stressing that each person plays a crucial role in advancing the kingdom through acts of love and service.
August 14 , 2024 Will Dyer Losing our Religion by Russell Moore Week 1 This week Will Dyer discussed the importance of maintaining a focus on the core principles of evangelical Christianity amidst the current cultural and political landscape. He emphasized the need to prioritize the gospel of Jesus Christ over political affiliations, power struggles, and cultural divisions. The message highlighted the personal journey of Russell Moore, a prominent figure in evangelical circles, who faced challenges within the Southern Baptist Convention due to his stance on moral integrity and political alignment. Will Dyer urged the congregation to reflect on their own faith, humility, and commitment to following Jesus, emphasizing the significance of love, redemption, and unity in Christ beyond political identities. The study concluded with a call to prayer, gratitude for the church community, and a reminder to stay focused on spiritual growth and worship.
8-11-2024 Will Dyer The sermon underscores the importance of intentional transformation by Jesus in our daily lives, emphasizing continuous commitment and practice for genuine faith growth. The message urges followers to emulate Jesus not only as a savior but also as a teacher, advocating for active engagement in a consistent journey akin to athletes' rigorous training. Will Dyer goes into deep introspection on the influences shaping our beliefs, highlighting Jesus as the paramount guide in molding our values and lives.
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