Faith Temple Church, Inc. (FTC) has a physical location in Baytown, Texas within the Houston-Galveston Metroplex. The reason we exist is to bring God glory by promoting good Christian character in every adult and child who we are privileged to serve by offering a loving, caring Christian environment to all who enter our doors. We are committed to assisting in the healing and strengthening of those who are hurting -whether in body, soul, or spirit - as we are led by the Holy Spirit.
Faith Temple Church (FTC) INC.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard ParksScripture: 2 Kings 4:8-11Objective: A woman in 2 Kings 4 made room for the prophet Elisha, showing great faith. God rewarded her with a son, and later brought him back to life through Elisha. The message teaches us to make room for God and trust Him fully.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard ParksScripture: Joshua 24: 13-15Objective: The importance of remembering God's faithfulness and covenant with His people, using Joshua 24 as a reference, and making a conscious choice to serve Him and put Him first in one's life.
Speaker: Bishop Odie LockettScripture: John 14:14-15Objective: To stir the church to return to true love for God, proven by real obedience, holy living, soul-winning work, and readiness for the coming move of God.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard ParksScripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 1:17–31 (KJV)Description: This message reminds us that salvation doesn't come through man, but through the power of the cross. What the world sees as foolish, God uses to save, transform, and redeem. We thank God — because we couldn't save ourselves.
Speaker: Pastor Leona PowellScripture: John 9:4 Objective: We honor and glorify God, recognizing His mighty power at work even in life's most difficult moments. Each day is a gift, not to be taken for granted, as hardship and loss can arrive without warning. Drawing from John 9:4, we are reminded to fulfill God's mission while we still have time and opportunity. The message encourages us to stay alert and willing to move when God leads, not just remain in comfort zones.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard ParksScripture: Luke 12:16Objective: Scripture reminds us that nothing hidden stays secret and warns us to fear God, not just those who can harm the body. It warns against greed, teaching that life isn't about gaining possessions. Jesus' parable of the rich man shows the foolishness of hoarding wealth for self instead of using it for God. The message urges us to focus on eternal things, not temporary ones, and to use our resources for God's kingdom. True fulfillment comes from serving God, not chasing worldly riches.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard ParksScripture: Matthew 11:1-6Objective: The speaker reflects on personal experiences and the importance of maintaining faith.Emphasizes "Faithing it Out," or continuing to have faith, regardless of circumstances.Encourages believers to walk by faith, expecting God's intervention in their lives, despite challenges.Highlights the expectation that one's righteous living and actions should yield positive outcomes.Reinforces belief in God's healing and support through faith.
Speaker: Sis. Cheryl CameronScripture: Romans 8:29Objective: The essence of the message is to remind believers that God's love predates all existence, offering a sense of belonging and purpose. The speaker encourages reciprocating this divine love and understanding that God's knowledge of us surpasses even our own self-awareness. The key takeaway is the assurance of a preordained, glorious future in likeness to Christ, as predestined by God.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard ParksScripture: Matthew 16:13-17Objective: The sermon highlights how the Pharisees and Sadducees doubted Jesus as the Messiah, demanding miracles, but he only offered the “sign of Jonah,” pointing to his death and resurrection.Jesus strengthened his disciples' faith, contrasting their beliefs with others, like the Greeks, who saw the cross as weakness. The message urges believers to stand firm, resist worldly doubts, and grow in faith through scripture, just as Jesus taught his disciples.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard ParksScripture: 2 Samuel 22:1-7Objective: David praises God in 2 Samuel 22 and Psalm 18 for delivering him from his enemies, including Saul and Absalom. • The sermon connects his faith to Black history, showing how trust in God helps overcome adversity. • It highlights the parallels between David's battles and the struggles of African Americans, emphasizing faith and unity in achieving victory.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard ParksScripture: Matthew 14:13-21Obiective: The speaker highlights the power of surrendering to God, drawing from Matthew 14. After John the Baptist's death, Jesus grieves but still shows compassion, healing the sick and caring for the crowd. The key message: Jesus' love remains constant, even in times of sorrow or doubt.
Speaker: Pastor Deshawn ParksScripture: Ezekiel 37 and Romans 10Objective: The sermon emphasizes the power of faith, drawing fromEzekiel 37 (the revival of dry bones) andRomans 10 (the universal call to salvation), highlighting that faith comes from actively hearing and internalizing God's word.The speaker challenges the congregation with“How is your faith?”, urging them to move beyond surface-level reading to deeply engage with scripture, trust in the unseen, and recognize God's transformative power.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Luke 23:46 and Luke 24: 1-6
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6 Objective: The central message of the text is to emphasize the importance of trusting in God rather than in people, material possessions, or personal instincts. Many individuals experience trust issues due to past disappointments, whether from loved ones, jobs, or material things, which fail to fulfill their promises or expectations. However, unlike human and material reliance, God is portrayed as a steadfast source of hope and trust, constantly present and trustworthy.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Scripture: Philippians Chapter 1 (Various Verses) Objective: The sermon aims to inspire the listeners to trust in God's work in their lives, find joy and faith even in trials, and deepen their understanding of Scripture.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Matthew 5:1-13 Objective: A key part of the passage is Jesus' message to his disciples, calling them "the salt of the earth." This metaphor emphasizes their role in preserving goodness and spreading divine influence in the world. The reflection draws parallels with the necessity and value of salt, cautioning against losing their impactful nature akin to salt losing its flavor.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Mark 14:32-36 Objective: The speaker reflects on Jesus' deep sorrow and prayer in Gethsemane, emphasizing the trials that come with a commitment to a godly life, as illustrated by Jesus' preparation of his disciples for his betrayal and crucifixion. Through personal anecdotes and biblical insights, the message encourages self-examination, perseverance in faith, and awareness of life's challenges for those striving to please God.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:7-11 Objective: Transitioning from victory to vulnerability, Paul requests Timothy to visit soon, highlighting the importance of fellowship during tough times. He feels deserted by Demas, who returned to worldly ways, emphasizing how crucial it is to have supportive and like-minded companions in faith. Through this reflection, the speaker draws a parallel to personal experiences in the current year, expressing gratitude for God's continuous opportunities to persevere and grow spiritually.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: John 3:14-17 Objective: John 3:14-17 emphasizes God's immense love for humanity, manifested through the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, for the salvation of the world.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Matthew 15:7-11 Objective: In Matthew 15, Jesus tells the Pharisees and scribes that they care more about rules than really loving God. The speaker talks about needing a “I need a heart transplant,” meaning we need to be honest in our faith, not just follow rules because we have to.
Speaker: Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Psalms 73: 16-17 Objective: The message highlights that while challenges may persist for believers, ultimate fulfillment and understanding come from a life centered in faith and service to God.
Speaker: Lady Liz Parks Scripture: Ephesians 6:11-17 Objective: Believers are encouraged to symbolically put on this armor each day by focusing on God, living truthfully, trusting in Him, and holding onto His Word. By embracing these principles, they can face life's challenges with strength and maintain a peaceful connection with God.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Act 3:1 - 10 Objective: This account highlights the transformative power of faith and the Holy Spirit. It centers on three key points: the man's condition from birth, his inability to care for himself, and his dependence on others for support.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: 2 Samuel 22:1-7 Objective: In 2 Samuel 22, David sings a song of thanks to God for saving him from his enemies, showing trust in God as his protector and savior. The speaker encourages daily gratitude, not just for material blessings, but for the gift of God and salvation through Jesus. Even in hard times and losses, we can praise God for His support and presence.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Matthew 11:27-30 Objective: The speaker emphasizes that true peace and resolution in life come from accepting Jesus's invitation, rather than relying on modern psychological advice. By contrasting the steadfast faith of John the Baptist with the disbelief of others, the speaker encourages a personal relationship with Jesus as the path to lasting fulfillment.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Mark 5:25-34 Objective: Faith in Jesus brings hope and healing, showing that God's healing power is available when medical help falls short.
Speaker: Pastor DeShawn Parks Scripture: Luke 22:31-32 Objective: This sermon, based on Luke 22:31-34, explores the concept of “sifting,” where trials and challenges test and refine a believer's faith. Jesus tells Peter that Satan desires to sift him, but He has prayed for Peter's faith to remain strong so that, once converted, he might strengthen others. Through the examples of Peter and Job, the sermon emphasizes that while believers may face hardships, these experiences lead to spiritual growth and a deeper trust in Christ's victory over the world.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Luke 12:12-21 Objective: - Focus on spiritual growth instead of gathering wealth. - You can't serve both God and money; choose what matters most. - Spend time getting closer to God, not just enjoying His gifts. - True happiness comes from following God, not chasing after things.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Psalm 121 Objective: This sermon, based on Psalm 121, emphasizes God's constant protection and presence, contrasting human forgetfulness with divine stability. The speaker highlights the importance of recognizing God's role in societal progress and portrays Him as the ultimate caregiver, offering comfort in difficult times.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: James 1:1-7 Objective: The message emphasizes resilience amidst adversity, reinforcing that appearances can be deceiving—what seems negative is, in fact, an opportunity for spiritual growth. The main theme: "It looks bad, but I am still winning," underlines triumph through perseverance.
Speaker: Mother Linda Haggin Scripture: Psalms 30:5 and Philippians 4:6-7 & more Objective: The speaker emphasizes that life's difficulties, such as worry or loss, are universal, but Christians can find comfort in turning to God, as highlighted in Psalms 30:5 and Philippians 4:6-7. Rather than depending on others, we are encouraged to present our troubles to God, who provides peace beyond understanding. While being a Christian doesn't shield us from hardship, it reassures us that God is our refuge, able to guide us through any situation. Our trials test and strengthen our faith, and like a mother forgetting her pain after childbirth, suffering can transform into joy. By enduring challenges, we grow in faith and eventually experience relief and miracles.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Luke 19:1-10 Objective: The message highlights that feeling beneath others is unfounded as everyone's equal before God, and the role of Christians is to uplift, not judge.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: John 8:21-36 Objective: This sermon emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus Christ to achieve true freedom from sin. It begins with a passage from John 8:21-36, where Jesus tells the Jews that they will die in their sins unless they believe He is the Messiah. Jesus explains that He speaks and acts according to God's teachings and those who follow His word will know the truth, and the truth will set them free. The pastor underscores that many people are spiritually bound by sin even though they are saved by Christ's grace. True freedom, he argues, requires acknowledging Jesus as the Son of God, who was crucified, died, was buried, and resurrected. Believing in Jesus' sacrifice and confessing it leads to eternal life. The pastor highlights that while many seek salvation, they resist being told how to live their lives. True discipleship involves abiding in Jesus' teachings, which leads to the knowledge of truth and true freedom from the bondage of sin.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Luke 22:31-32 Objective: After people are saved, they often face more problems and suffering because they become enemies of Satan, who tries to disrupt their faith in God. The focus then shifts from caring for the physical body to caring for the spirit, as the body is temporary but the spirit lasts forever. As Passover gets closer, Jesus tells his disciples to prepare the meal, knowing that Judas Iscariot will betray him. During this time, the disciples argue about who will be the greatest in the kingdom. Jesus teaches them that real greatness comes from being a servant, showing that humility and helping others are more important than seeking status.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Matthew 16:13-18 Objective: The speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing one's identity and purpose in God, noting that many still struggle with this despite years of church attendance. By referencing Matthew 16:13-18, where Peter recognizes Jesus as the Christ, the speaker highlights the need for divine revelation to truly understand our spiritual identity and God's will for our lives.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Matthew 14:22-30 Objective: The message reflects on Matthew 14:22-30, emphasizing faith as a crucial connection to the spiritual realm that requires active engagement. Even after salvation, true transformation demands ongoing devotion to God's word, reshaping one's spirit and actions. Following Christ brings challenges, often changing social circles, but believers are encouraged to remain steadfast. Jesus praying alone while the disciples struggle at sea highlights the need for obedience and trust. The plea "Lord, save me" calls believers to break free from spiritual bondage and persevere in their faith journey.
Speaker: Pastor Deshawn Parks Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:13-18 Objective: The speaker encourages listeners to understand that preaching the gospel is not just a duty but a calling that reflects one's relationship with God. Paul's message is about the deep responsibility and privilege of sharing the gospel, which he feels compelled to do regardless of the challenges.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10 Objective: Ephesians Chapter 2 emphasizes the transformation from spiritual death to life through God's grace. Paul writes to the Ephesians, reminding them that they were once spiritually dead because of their sins, living in disobedience and following worldly desires. Despite this, God, in His mercy and love, made them alive with Christ. He stresses that salvation is by grace through faith, not by human efforts, to prevent any boasting. Paul underscores that Christians are God's workmanship, created in Christ to do good works preordained by God. The chapter encourages Christians to remember their past separation from God and recognize that it is through God's grace, not their actions, that they have been saved.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: John 5:5-9 Objective: The speaker emphasizes that everyone has problems they can't fix themselves, regardless of their faith or background. They recount personal experiences and stress the importance of turning to Jesus for help. Just as parents sacrifice for their children, Jesus sacrificed his life for humanity's salvation. It's crucial to appreciate and honor this sacrifice by living according to God's will, rather than persisting in wrongdoing.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Mark 10:46-52 Objective: The sermon emphasizes that everyone faces life issues—health, financial, or familial. Jesus assures in John 16:33 that trials will come, but faith and focusing on what we have, rather than what we lack, can help us cope. Using Bartimaeus' story, it shows that using what we have (like Bartimaeus' hearing and faith) to connect with God can lead to overcoming our issues, stressing that all things are possible with God. Delay in God's response does not mean denial; faith and persistence are key. The sermon encourages calling on Jesus for help in our issues, emphasizing that God is attentive and will act at the right time.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4: 5-11 Objective: The message highlights the change that comes with accepting Jesus Christ. Before accepting Him, people feel lost, powerless, and alone. When they accept Jesus, they receive the Holy Spirit, which gives them new strength and purpose. Their lives now belong to God, who guides and empowers them. The speaker compares human bodies to fragile clay jars to show their weakness. However, God's inner strength helps believers handle life's challenges. This divine power, taught by Paul, is key to overcoming difficulties and achieving eternal life. Considering recent issues like the COVID pandemic, the message stresses the importance of inner peace and faith in God. A strong relationship with God gives strength, hope, and a promise of heaven. The speaker urges living in faith, relying on God's power every day, and says true peace and resilience come from within.
Speaker: Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: 2 King 4:1-7 Objective: "Making Something Out of Nothing" is a story about a widow facing financial hardship after her husband's death. Left in debt, she seeks help from a man of God rather than friends. He asks her what she has at home, focusing on her faith as well as her possessions. Her strong faith leads her to follow divine instructions, resulting in a miraculous solution to her problems. This story emphasizes the power of faith and divine guidance during tough times, showing that God's help can turn dire situations around.
Speaker: Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Psalm 27 Objective: In our Christian journey, we often face worry and fear about the future, health, finances, and outcomes. Despite knowing God's works, these challenges can make us anxious. However, by having faith and trust in God, we find solace knowing He has our best interests at heart, even in dire circumstances. Biblical stories like King David fleeing from Saul teach us to maintain trust in God. Despite being pursued, David praised God and trusted His protection. This example shows that steadfast faith in times of fear and uncertainty provides assurance and peace. Embracing faith and letting God handle our battles helps us overcome life's strongholds.
Speaker: Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Psalm 126 Objective: God remains consistent and unchanging through time. Many believers have witnessed His miracles, often during insurmountable challenges. In times of hardship, when worldly solutions fail, God provides deliverance. For those facing addictions, illnesses, or other difficulties, remember that the same God who helped in the past is present today. Faith is essential to trust in His perfect timing and support. Even if answers seem delayed, they are not denied. Keep sowing seeds of faith, praying, and being patient, knowing that God's timing is always perfect.
Speaker: Pastor Nosa Ogbeide Scriptures: Philippians 1:6 - "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." John 15:5 - "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." 2 Corinthians 12:9 - "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." Objective: Today's sermon is to remind the congregation that they are always a work in progress in their spiritual journey with God. It emphasizes the necessity of continuous growth, the dangers of pride and complacency, the importance of staying connected to Jesus, recognizing personal weaknesses, and relying on God's guidance and support throughout all stages of life.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: 2 Kings 4:1-7 Objective: The speaker is discussing a biblical story from 2 Kings 4:1-7, where a widow, under the guidance of the prophet Elisha, miraculously fills multiple vessels with oil from a single pot. This allows her to sell the oil, pay off her husband's debts, and sustain her family, highlighting themes of faith and divine provision.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Jeremiah 32:36-41 Objective: The reflective teaching encourages believers to trust in God's power and promises, aligning their will with His, especially during moments of doubt. It serves as a reminder that God's faithfulness remains even when His people turn away from Him. The message underlines the importance of understanding one's purpose in God, highlighting that one should seek to please God above all else. The chapter concludes with an admonition that turning away from God leads to consequences and that recognition of one's wrongdoings and repentance are key to receiving God's forgiveness and restoration. The narrative teaches that God may use challenging circumstances to correct and strengthen the faith of His people, urging them to trust in His providence despite doubts or difficulties.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Proverbs 18:24 Objective: Proverbs 18:24 highlights the value of being friendly to make friends and introduces the concept of a perfect friend, exemplified by Jesus. This ideal friend, unlike others, is always accessible, trustworthy, and steadfast in adversity. The sermon suggests focusing on this example rather than trying to please everyone, emphasizing the unique and unconditional nature of Jesus's friendship.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Isaiah 40:28-31 Objective: The speaker draws from Isaiah chapter 40 in the Old Testament to convey a message of hope and resilience. According to this scripture, God is everlasting, tireless, and beyond human comprehension. Despite the feeling of abandonment or unanswered prayers, the text reassures believers that God gives strength to the weary and empowers the weak. The passage emphasizes that even young people will falter, but those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength, symbolically soaring like eagles, running without exhaustion, and walking without tiring. This message is presented to comfort those who find themselves in difficult circumstances similar to the Israelites in Babylonian captivity, feeling forgotten by God. The message encourages trust and patience, promising that God's help is on the way and that He's prepared to forgive and aid his followers. One must position themselves in faith and readiness for when God acts, trusting His timing and believing in His ability to deliver and restore.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: 2 Sammuel 22:1-7 Objective: David credits God with his victories over enemies and obstacles, emphasizing that it was not by his own strength that he prevailed, but by the power and grace of God. He compels the listeners to also reflect on their own lives, recognizing the moments where God's hand has guided them through hardships, provided for their needs, and opened doors that seemed firmly shut. The message encourages everyone to personally claim the psalm's declarations of God's goodness, urging them to remember and testify to the ways God has been instrumental in their stories. This act of reflection not only strengthens individual faith but serves as a reminder that, like David, they too have experienced the goodness of God in ways that are both profound and intimately personal.
Speaker: Sr. Pastor Richard Parks Scripture: Philippians 1:27-30 Objective: Strong belief (faith) is key to knowing God. When you ask God for something, truly believe it's on the way, even if you can't see it yet. Religious leaders understand your struggles. They know life is hard, but their love and support extend beyond church. The Bible shows us how faith works. Just like the Apostle Paul who kept believing in God even in jail, challenges can be chances to share your faith. When someone stays faithful through tough times, it inspires others. Keep believing! See difficulties as part of God's plan. Trust that God is in control, and live a life that shows others how strong your faith is.