Faith Free Presbyterian Church

Sermon given at the baby dedication of Azalea Christ.

This sermon examines the doctrine of the Trinity through specific passages in the book of Isaiah, identifying the distinct roles and relationships of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The analysis begins with Isaiah 42, where the Father is presented as the commissioner who delights in the Son, the Servant, who is empowered by the Holy Spirit to bring gentle justice to the Gentiles. The teaching continues with Isaiah 48, exploring the debate over whether the Father or the Son is the speaker, while emphasizing the unity of the divine persons in the sending of the Messiah. Finally, the sermon introduces Isaiah 61 alongside Luke 4, highlighting the anointing of Christ by the Spirit to preach good tidings and bind up the brokenhearted. Throughout the discussion, the preacher emphasizes that the three persons of the Trinity are united in purpose and authority, rather than operating in a hierarchy of subordination, providing a cohesive Old Testament foundation for understanding the triune nature of God.

Roll Eugene McEndollar, 84, passed into the presence of his Savior on September 11, 2026. He was born in Peoria, Illinois on March 12, 1942, and shortly thereafter was adopted by Willard E. and Blanch L. (Irey) McEndollar. Roll graduated from Woodruff High School in Peoria, Illinois in 1960 and completed a diploma program at Midstate College of Commerce in 1964 in the same city. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina in 1973 and a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina in 1976. He served in the US Army Reserves from 1963 to 1969 and was honorably discharged. Roll taught at Bob Jones Academy from 1973 until 1989. He worked for several Greenville area businesses after that, retiring from Garner's Natural Market & Café. Roll was known as an artist, particularly for his calligraphy. For many years he personally designed and silkscreened Christmas cards that he sent to his friends. Those cards are still treasured by many. Most importantly, Roll professed faith in Jesus Christ at the age of five and was known as a dedicated Christian by all who knew him well. Roll is survived by his sister, Vanna (Chuck) Zeigler, of Peoria, Illinois. Special thanks are expressed to the staff of Kauhale Pettigru, NHC Greenville, and Affinity Hospice. After a private burial at Woodlawn Memorial Park, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Faith Free Presbyterian Church, 1207 Haywood Road, Greenville, South Carolina where Roll was a member. A live webcast of the service will be available at faithfpc.org/live/.

This sermon examines Paul's exclamation to the Galatians, highlighting the danger of drifting from the clear presentation of the gospel toward legalism. The central argument emphasizes that justification is found solely in faith in Christ, not in works of the law, and that the church must maintain the centrality of the cross against social and political distractions. The message distinguishes between merely knowing doctrinal facts and the active 'hearing of faith' that beholds Christ personally. It calls believers to a daily, constant gaze upon the crucified Christ as the source of spiritual strength and victory over sin. Finally, it urges Christians to be effective witnesses in their daily lives, ensuring that the message of Christ is clearly spoken and visibly lived out among their families, workplaces, and communities.

This sermon examines the Trinitarian dimensions of Isaiah 11, focusing on the identification of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit within the prophecy of the Messiah. The Father is presented as the implicit source of the Davidic line, while the Son is depicted as the royal Branch who rules with righteousness and integrity. The Holy Spirit is highlighted as the distinct person who rests upon the Messiah, providing a seven-fold empowerment that includes wisdom, understanding, counsel, and might. The teaching emphasizes the functional unity of the Godhead, where the Spirit furnishes the Son to carry out the Father's sovereign plan. This analysis connects the Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, illustrating how the distinct roles of the three persons cooperate in the redemption and rule of Christ.

The sermon explores the concept of beauty as a divine hallmark of God's creation, arguing that true beauty is defined by appropriateness, symmetry, and harmony rather than mere aesthetic preference. By examining scientific principles such as the structure of peacock feathers and the mathematical elegance of nature, the speaker illustrates how these features point to an intelligent Designer rather than random evolution. The message contrasts the temporary satisfaction found in earthly beauty with the eternal longing for divine presence, citing Psalm 27 and C.S. Lewis to emphasize that only God offers lasting fulfillment. Furthermore, the sermon addresses the theological paradox of the cross, explaining how the ugliness of Christ's sacrifice becomes the ultimate source of beauty and salvation for believers. Ultimately, the speaker encourages the audience to view the natural world as a witness to God's care and to recognize their own transformation into Christ's image as a process of becoming more beautiful in His eyes.

The sermon explores the doctrine of the Trinity within Old Testament scriptures, focusing primarily on Genesis chapter one. It examines how the plural Hebrew name Elohim and the phrase 'let us make man' indicate a plurality of persons within the Godhead. The instructor identifies the distinct roles of the Father as initiator, the Son as the agent of creation through New Testament parallels, and the Holy Spirit as the sustainer who hovered over the waters. By analyzing these passages alongside Psalm 110 and Mark 12, the lesson demonstrates that Trinitarian truths are present in the Old Testament, affirming the unity and distinct personhood of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the work of creation.

This sermon introduces a new Sunday school series focused on the biblical theology of the Trinity, emphasizing its foundational role in Christian faith. The speaker distinguishes between three methods of theological study: systematic, which organizes doctrine logically; biblical, which traces themes chronologically through Scripture; and historical, which examines how doctrines developed over time. Key Trinitarian concepts such as monotheism, divine essence, and the eternal relations of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are defined to clarify orthodox belief against heresies like tritheism and modalism. The preacher argues that while systematic theology is a valuable tool, it must be grounded in biblical exposition to avoid logical extremes. The session concludes by affirming that the full understanding of God's nature is revealed progressively through Scripture, culminating in the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ.

The sermon explores the narrative of Peter's miraculous prison release in Acts 12 to illustrate the power and nature of effective prayer. It highlights how the early church prayed specifically and earnestly for Peter, yet remained astonished when God answered in a way that exceeded their expectations. The preacher emphasizes that while believers may possess theological knowledge that God hears and answers prayer, true faith often falls short of anticipating divine intervention in impossible circumstances. By connecting this event to the Passover, the message underscores God's ability to deliver His people without human strategy or power. The central call is for believers to persist in specific, fervent prayer for their pressing burdens, trusting that God can produce outcomes that leave them astonished.

Drawing from John 2:10, the sermon illustrates how God consistently reserves the best blessings for His people, much like the good wine kept until last at the wedding in Cana. The preacher contrasts the shadows and promises of the Old Testament with the superior reality found in Christ, emphasizing that redemption is not merely a past event but an ongoing experience where Jesus becomes sweeter over time. Through trials and providence, believers gain a deeper appreciation for God's sovereignty and patience, allowing them to rest in His guidance even amidst life's difficulties. The message encourages Christians to anticipate future glory, where communion with Christ will be perfect and conformity to His image complete. Ultimately, the text calls for joyful expectation of both present spiritual growth and eternal fulfillment.

This sermon explores the enduring influence of Puritanism on church history and American culture by examining its theological foundations and political impact. The speaker highlights key developments such as the Westminster Standards, the establishment of congregational polity in New England, and the concept of visible saints within state-supported churches. A central focus is placed on five historical figures—Matthew Henry, Cotton Mather, Jonathan Edwards, C.H. Spurgeon, and D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones—who are identified as carriers of the Puritan spiritual and intellectual legacy. The discussion critiques the secularization of Puritan ideals in American political rhetoric while affirming their continued relevance for biblical study and personal devotion. Ultimately, the message encourages believers to draw from this rich heritage to deepen their understanding of Scripture and grow closer to Christ.

The sermon examines the profound historical turning points initiated by the Protestant Reformation and the subsequent rise of Puritanism in England. It highlights key theological shifts, including the restoration of scriptural authority over church tradition and the redefinition of vocation that elevated secular labor as a divine calling. The preacher discusses how these religious changes influenced broader societal developments such as the growth of capitalism, literacy, and concepts of liberty of conscience. Attention then turns to the English Reformation's political complexities under Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, leading to the Puritan movement's desire to purify the Church of England. Finally, the narrative traces the legacy of Puritanism through its impact on British non-conformity, the Westminster Standards, and its foundational role in shaping religious heritage in North America.

El equipo de misiones a la República Dominicana experimentó la soberanía y provisión de Dios al superar barreras lingüísticas y culturales para llevar el Evangelio. A través de un VBS desafiante en Santo Domingo, los miembros del equipo aprendieron humildad y dependencia total del Señor mientras servían a una iglesia local en crecimiento. Los testimonios compartidos resaltan cómo Dios humilló el orgullo humano y sostuvo al equipo mediante su gracia diaria. La presentación concluye con una exhortación basada en el Salmo 40, enfatizando que Dios eleva, establece y da un nuevo canto de alabanza a los creyentes salvos.

This sermon explores the life of King Asa in 2 Chronicles 14, focusing on how he navigated periods of spiritual renovation and sudden crisis. The speaker explains that God sends trials not as punishment but to test faith, humble self-reliance, and define character through dependence on Him. Central to the message is Asa's prayer during an overwhelming military threat, which declares that nothing is too difficult for God to help. By examining biblical patterns of faith found in the stories of Jonathan and the spies, the preacher encourages believers to adopt this same confident trust when facing impossible situations. The message concludes by inviting both believers and unbelievers to embrace this prayer of total reliance on God's power and love.

The sermon examines the profound impact of Pope Innocent III and the Fourth Lateran Council on medieval Christianity, highlighting key doctrinal developments such as transubstantiation and the mandatory annual confession for all believers. It details the formalization of the seven sacraments and the condemnation of heretical groups like the Waldensians and Albigensians, alongside the expansion of monastic orders like the Franciscans and Dominicans. The narrative further explores Innocent's authorization of crusades, including the controversial Fourth Crusade against Constantinople and the violent campaign against the Albigensians. Finally, the discussion transitions to Martin Luther's 95 Theses, identifying the abuse of indulgences as a primary catalyst for the Protestant Reformation and the subsequent shift toward the authority of Scripture alone.

The sermon examines two pivotal moments in church history: the conversion of Emperor Constantine and the Great Schism of 1054. It argues that Constantine's establishment of a state church introduced harmful trends such as Caesaro-papism, coercion, and syncretism, shifting the church from a gathered community to an inclusive institution. The discussion then details the theological and cultural divisions between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches, highlighting differences in authority, doctrine, and tradition while noting their shared rejection of Protestant principles. Ultimately, the speaker emphasizes that historical lineage does not validate doctrine, urging believers to rely solely on Scripture as the final standard for truth.

Alice Gingery, 95, passed away on July 26, 2026. Alice is survived by her daughter, Christa (Randy) Habegger and son, Philip (Becky) Gingery; twelve grandchildren: Rand (Lindsey) Habegger, Ariel (Olivier) Blanchard, Taryn Gamble, Adam (Erika) Gingery, Ben Gingery, Will (Hannah) Gingery, Sam (Anna) Gingery, Sarah Gingery, Joseph (Hannah) Gingery, David (Annanya) Gingery, Matthew Gingery, Greyson Gingery; and seventeen great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of sixty-four years, her brother, W. "Corkey" Christman, and granddaughter Laura Gingery. https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/greenville-sc/alice-gingery-12981745

This sermon introduces a new series on decisive moments in church history, beginning with the Council of Jerusalem and the reign of Constantine. The speaker analyzes Acts 15 to demonstrate that the early church resolved the Judaizing controversy by affirming salvation through faith alone, establishing Christianity as a universal faith rather than a Jewish sect. The discussion then shifts to Constantine's victory at the Milvian Bridge, highlighting both the positive end of persecution and the negative precedent of state-church entanglement. By examining these events, the transcript emphasizes the importance of learning from historical turning points to understand current theological realities. The overall tone is instructional, aiming to provide a balanced view of historical influences on the Christian faith.

The sermon explores the Christian pursuit of discerning and doing God's will, emphasizing that this is the central focus of a believer's life. It outlines three specific tests derived from Romans 12 to evaluate whether a decision aligns with divine purpose: it must be morally good, acceptable to God, and perfecting for the individual's spiritual maturity. The preacher argues that true discernment requires total consecration, rejection of worldly conformity, and constant renewal of the mind through Scripture. By applying these criteria, believers can move from uncertainty to confident obedience, ensuring their actions glorify God and benefit others. Ultimately, following this path leads to genuine joy, contentment, and spiritual fruitfulness.

The sermon explores the vital necessity of discerning God's will for believers, emphasizing that this ability is rooted in specific spiritual preparations. It highlights three key steps: the consecration of one's entire being as a living sacrifice, the repudiation of worldly conformity, and the continuous transformation of the mind through truth. The preacher argues that true holiness requires mortifying the deeds of the body and rejecting the transient patterns of the world to remain sensitive to the Holy Spirit. By aligning personal desires with Christ's example, Christians can move beyond mere curiosity about God's will to a sincere commitment to obey it. Ultimately, the message asserts that knowing and doing God's will is the defining mark of a genuine child of God.

The sermon examines artificial intelligence through a theological lens, distinguishing between human identity created in God's image and AI's mere linguistic processing. It argues that while AI exhibits emergent intelligence, it lacks a soul, self, or genuine understanding, often resulting in hallucinations and suggestibility. The speaker identifies three primary dangers: dependence on tools that dull critical thinking, delusion from anthropomorphizing machines, and domination through the illusion of inevitable technological power. Drawing on Mark 13, the message urges believers to prioritize the health of their souls and spiritual responsibilities over societal disruptions. Ultimately, Christians are called to use AI wisely for tasks like translation while remaining grounded in their distinct, God-given identity.

The sermon emphasizes the supreme value and necessity of God's Word for the believer's life, drawing primarily from Psalm 147. It highlights that while God governs all creation, He uniquely reveals His statutes and judgments to His people, providing guidance, healing, and peace. The preacher argues that Scripture is perfect and trustworthy, serving as the essential foundation for salvation, sanctification, and daily decision-making. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit is identified as the crucial agent who illuminates the text, enabling believers to understand and apply divine truth effectively. The message concludes with an exhortation to pray for a deep appreciation of Scripture and to rely on it for glorifying and enjoying God.

The sermon interprets Revelation 13 as a prophetic warning against the rise of artificial intelligence, viewing AI as the modern manifestation of the beast and its image that speaks. It traces the historical development of computing from early rule-based systems to deep learning and large language models, explaining how these technologies mimic human intellect without possessing true consciousness or soul. The speaker argues that while AI demonstrates a functional understanding through pattern recognition, it remains a man-made idol lacking the breath of life found in biblical descriptions of false worship. This technological advancement presents a spiritual crisis for post-modern society, challenging believers to maintain faith amidst a godless pursuit of synthetic intelligence. Ultimately, the message calls for discernment and reliance on divine supremacy rather than trusting in human ingenuity.

The sermon explores the spiritual disciplines of allowing God's peace to govern the heart and letting Christ's word dwell richly within the believer. It emphasizes that these are daily, cumulative practices rather than one-time commitments, leading to a life marked by gratitude and unity in the church body. The preacher highlights how putting off sinful behaviors and putting on virtues like love and humility fosters harmony among diverse individuals. By focusing on Christ's teachings and maintaining a thankful disposition, believers can experience true peace amidst worldly conflicts. Ultimately, the message calls for a consistent, day-by-day reliance on divine grace to shape thoughts, words, and actions.

This sermon addresses the spiritual burden of past sins that resurface to torment a believer's conscience. Drawing primarily from Psalm 25, it outlines three biblical responses: honestly naming and owning one's specific transgressions before God, casting them entirely upon His covenant mercy rather than self-effort, and fixing one's gaze on Christ as the sin-bearer who absorbed their guilt. The preacher emphasizes that true relief comes not from forgetting or minimizing the past, but from trusting in the finished work of Jesus and the assurance of justification. This perspective fosters humility, dependence on grace, and a merciful attitude toward others, while ultimately calling unbelief to repentance and faith in Christ for complete pardon.