Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church Sermon Podcast

What happens when God's people pray with desperation, trust, and surrender?In this message, J.T. Coleman teaches from 1 Samuel 1–2 on Hannah's prayer and how God works through honest, surrendered prayer — not only in individual lives, but across generations. Hannah brought her deepest pain to God, trusted Him without immediate affirmation, and placed her greatest desire into His hands. God used her faithfulness in ways far beyond what she could see, ultimately pointing us to Jesus.This message also challenges families and the church to pray boldly for the next generation, trusting God to move in ways we may not immediately see.

Forgiveness stands as one of life's greatest challenges, yet it's essential for our spiritual well-being. When Jesus taught us to pray 'forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors,' He revealed a profound truth about the connection between receiving and giving forgiveness. We all sin and fall short of God's glory, creating a debt that only Jesus could pay through His sacrifice on the cross. However, God's forgiveness comes with a condition: we must also forgive others. Holding onto anger and resentment imprisons us and destroys us from within. Life is too short to let pride prevent reconciliation with those who have wronged us.

In Part 4 of our series Prayer Is the Fix for 2026, Pastor Todd unpacks the line from the Lord's Prayer:“Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11).This message explores what it means to live with daily dependence on God—not only for physical provision, but for spiritual strength, peace, and direction. We're reminded that prayer invites humility, honesty, and a hunger for God to meet us in our real needs.Whether you're facing a difficult season or simply longing to grow deeper in your prayer life, this message encourages you to trust God for today.

What happens when we truly pray, “Your kingdom come, Your will be done”?In this message, we continue our Prayer Is the Fix for 2026 series by examining Matthew 6:10 and learning how prayer shapes our priorities, transforms our hearts, and calls us to live out God's kingdom today.This sermon encourages believers to surrender fully to Christ, seek God's will above their own, and respond in faithful obedience.

Prayer isn't about saying the right words — it's about knowing who we're talking to.In this message from January 11, 2026, we continue the Prayer Is the Fix for 2026 series by examining the first words of the Lord's Prayer. Jesus invites us to pray personally, calling God Our Father — a reminder that we are loved, adopted, and welcomed home.This episode encourages listeners to trust God's presence, power, and compassion in every season of life.

As we enter a new year, Pastor Todd begins a new series focused on prayer.In Luke 11, the disciples ask Jesus to teach them how to pray. The Lord's Prayer becomes a foundation for intentional living — reminding us that real change begins with discipline, desire, and dependence on God.This episode invites you to start 2026 grounded in prayer and open to God's transforming power.

What does real faith look like in everyday life?This message explores how faith is rooted in God's grace, not our effort, and how genuine faith transforms us from the inside out. Through Scripture, we're reminded that faith leads us to forgiveness, surrender, and a life that points others to Jesus.

In this Fourth Sunday of Advent message, we reflect on the angel's announcement to the shepherds and the lasting promise of comfort, joy, and love found in Jesus Christ.This message speaks to those celebrating and those grieving, reminding us that God loves us, forgives us, and has a plan for our lives — even when the season feels heavy.

As we continue through Advent, Pastor Todd shares how Jesus offers peace that goes beyond circumstances. We're reminded to prepare our hearts for Christmas — and for Christ's return — by pursuing peace with God, with others, and in our daily walk with Him.Listen as we reflect on the promise that no matter what we face, Jesus has overcome the world.December 7, 2025 — Peace in a Chaotic WorldMessage by Pastor Todd LesterJohn 16:33

This special Advent service marks the beginning of the Christmas season at Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church. The Chrismon Service is a cherished tradition where we gather to worship, read the Christmas story, listen to our children sing, and place Chrismon ornaments—symbols of Christ's identity—on our sanctuary trees.Pastor Todd closes the evening by encouraging us to let the Lord prepare our hearts for Christmas and to remember that Jesus came as Emmanuel, “God with us.”We pray this service brings peace, joy, and hope to you as you enter this season of celebration.

On this first Sunday of Advent, Pastor Todd shares a timely message on hope from Psalm 42. If you're walking through discouragement, fatigue, grief, spiritual dryness, or uncertainty, this episode points you back to the truth that God is with you and has not abandoned you.Pastor Todd unpacks the HOPE acrostic—Hold On, Open Up, Put Yourself in a New Environment, and Expect God to Move—and invites us to place our hope fully in the Lord.Scripture: Psalm 42Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church – Midway, KY

How do we cultivate joy, prayerfulness, and gratitude in every season of life?In this message from 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, Pastor Todd Lester unpacks three short yet powerful commands: rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances.Whether you're facing grief, stress, family tension, hardship, or spiritual dryness, God offers you a heart-level reset through the rhythm of joy, prayer, and thanksgiving.Speaker: Todd LesterRecorded: November 23, 2025 — Forks of Elkhorn Baptist ChurchTopics: gratitude, prayer, joy, spiritual growth, Christian encouragement

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness.” (Romans 8:26)In this message, Pastor Todd Lester teaches how the Holy Spirit strengthens us when we feel weak, numb, overwhelmed, or unsure how to pray. Through Romans 8:26–28, we learn that God is working in all things for the good of those who love Him — even when life feels heavy or confusing.Scripture: Romans 8:26–28Speaker: Dr. Todd LesterDate: November 16, 2025Location: Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church · Midway, KYTopics: Holy Spirit, prayer, suffering, trusting God, spiritual strength, hope

In this week's message from 2 Corinthians 6:1–2, Pastor Todd challenges us to consider the urgency of living for Christ today. Drawing from Paul's reminder that “now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation,” we're encouraged to:Enlist in His service as God's co-workersEmbrace His grace with gratitude and transformed livesEnsure our salvation, refusing to put off the most important decision of our livesPastor Todd weaves Scripture, heartfelt stories, and powerful testimonies—including the legacy of Chad and Tommy Lippert—to remind us that life is brief and eternity is real. If God is prompting your heart, why wait?Recorded at Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church on November 9, 2025.

Have you ever found yourself running — from guilt, fear, pain, or even from God Himself?In this week's message from 1 Peter 2:11–12, Pastor Todd Lester reminds us that when we stop running from God and start running to Him, we discover our true identity, purpose, and peace.This episode includes:

What does it mean to follow Jesus with your whole heart?In this message from Luke 9:23–26, Pastor Todd Lester challenges us to live all in—denying ourselves, taking up our cross daily, and fully surrendering every part of our lives to Christ.Through practical insight and heartfelt teaching, this sermon reminds us that surrender isn't a one-time decision—it's a daily commitment. Discover how to walk in the strength of the Holy Spirit, stay encouraged through fellowship, and persevere through life's struggles as you give God your best.Episode Notes / Summary• Following Jesus requires daily surrender, not occasional faith• True discipleship means denying self and embracing God's will• We can't live surrendered lives without the Holy Spirit's power• Fellowship with believers strengthens our walk through struggl• God calls us to give our best—not our leftovers—and trust Him fullyForks of Elkhorn Baptist Church, Todd Lester, Luke 9:23–26, surrender, discipleship, all in sermon, daily faith, Kentucky church, Christian living, spiritual growth, encouragement, give God your best, Jesus, surrender to Christ, faith journey, Christian podcast

Pastor Todd Lester teaches from Paul's final letter, urging believers to anchor their lives in God's Word. Discover how Scripture saves, shapes, and sends us to serve. When life presses in — go to the Lord and His Word.“Discipline yourself to go to the Lord and His Word for supernatural strength.”

This week at Forks, we celebrated baptism and lifted our voices in worship. Associate Pastor of Music & Worship, Shawn Sherwood, shared about the power of music in our faith, showing how God's glory is revealed in creation, our hope is secured in Christ's resurrection, His eternal power sustains us, and His reign calls us to praise.

In this sermon from September 28, 2025, Pastor Todd Lester preaches from Acts 1:8 on the spiritual discipline of evangelism. Discover how the Holy Spirit empowers us, convicts us, and changes us—and how we are called to be witnesses “in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Be encouraged to live your faith boldly and share your story to help “save one more for Jesus.”

In this sermon from Hebrews 10:19–25, Pastor Todd unpacks the spiritual discipline of worship—what it means to give God His proper worth and how we can draw near with sincere hearts. Learn how worship transforms us, sustains our hope, and calls us to encourage one another as we follow Christ.

On September 14, 2025, Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church celebrated baptisms and worship before Pastor Todd Lester brought a timely message on The Discipline of Self-Control.Through 1 Peter 1:13–16, we are reminded that real strength comes not from our own willpower, but from living under the Spirit's control. Learn how to roll up the sleeves of your mind, anchor your hope in Christ, and pursue holiness in daily life.

Prayer is not just a ritual—it's the lifeline of every believer. In this sermon from Step Into the New, Pastor Todd Lester teaches from Colossians 4 about the priority, purpose, and persistence of prayer. Be encouraged to deepen your prayer life and rely on God in every circumstance.

This week Pastor Todd Lester continues our series Step Into the New: Strength for the Walk with a message on The Discipline of Kindness (Colossians 3:12–14).Learn how to clothe yourself with compassion, bear with one another, and forgive as Christ forgave you.

In this week's sermon, Pastor Todd Lester continues the “Step Into the New” series with a focus on the discipline of simplicity. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 11, this message calls us to put God first, remove distractions, and embrace a pure devotion to Christ.Whether you're overwhelmed by busyness or longing for renewal, this message will encourage you to rediscover the beauty of a simple, childlike faith.Scripture: 2 Corinthians 11:1–5Speaker: Pastor Todd LesterSeries: Step Into the New

In this week's sermon, Pastor Todd Lester launches our series Step Into the New & Strengthen the Walk with a message from 1 Timothy 4:6–10. Just as physical training requires commitment, so does training in godliness. Learn how desire, discipline, and direction shape a strong walk with Christ.

In this episode, Pastor Todd Lester reflects on Psalm 30 and shares a message of hope and healing. Discover how God sees your struggles, hears your prayers, and offers restoration through Jesus Christ.Listen, be encouraged, and let God's love lift you today.

Pastor Todd Lester kicks off Ministry Month with a timely message from 1 Peter 2:1–3. Learn how spiritual growth begins with cleansing, continues with craving the Word, and requires consuming the presence of God. Whether you're just beginning your faith journey or looking to deepen it, this message will encourage and challenge you.

In this special Youth Sunday episode, Student Minister James Coleman delivers an encouraging message from Isaiah 54:17, reminding us that no weapon formed against us will prevail when we walk in the light of Christ.You'll also hear highlights from Youth Week, student testimonies, and a call to rise above temptation and step into the calling God has placed on our lives.Scripture: Isaiah 54:16–17Recorded: July 27, 2025Location: Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church

This week, Pastor Todd shares how the grip of God's grace gives us peace, a place, and a partnership with Him. Featuring highlights from Vacation Bible School and touching stories of hope in the face of tragedy, it's a reminder that God's love carries us through every storm.

This message from Pastor Todd Lester explores Matthew 18:1–5, where Jesus reminds us that the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven are those who humble themselves like children. It's a timely reminder in a world chasing power and recognition.Also in this episode:• A special prayer for Isaiah Souders as he joins the Air Force• Blessing over the start of Vacation Bible School• A lighthearted moment from Pastor's recent tripListen, be encouraged, and share it with someone who needs a midweek lift.

As we prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, Pastor Todd Lester shares a message of true freedom — not just as Americans, but as followers of Christ. Through John 10:10, we're reminded that Jesus came to give us life to the full. In this powerful message, you'll hear encouragement to embrace the joy, liberty, and purpose found only in Him.Scripture: John 10:10Recorded at Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church on June 29, 2025.

In this message, Youth Pastor JT challenges the church to embrace its calling to disciple the next generation. Drawing from Luke 1 and 3, we look at the story of John the Baptist and how his calling from before birth mirrors God's call for Gen Z, Gen Alpha, and Gen Beta today.This is a timely word for parents, mentors, and believers of all ages. JT speaks directly to the need for repentance, spiritual fruit, and intentional discipleship—not just church attendance. Are we preparing the way for Jesus to be known?

Whether you're celebrating, grieving, waiting, or rebuilding—God is present in every moment. In this special Father's Day message, Pastor Shawn Sherwood shares from Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 and reminds us that every season of life has a divine purpose.From mountaintop moments to quiet valleys, God's faithfulness never changes. You'll be encouraged to lean into the season you're in, trust God's timing, and walk alongside others with hope and purpose.—Originally preached on: June 15, 2025Speaker: Pastor Shawn SherwoodChurch: Forks of Elkhorn Baptist ChurchLearn more or connect: https://forksbaptist.org

As we celebrate 237 years of faithfulness at Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church, Pastor Todd brings a message from Acts 2 on what truly makes a church special—love, unity, prayer, generosity, and the presence of the Lord.No matter where you listen, remember this: the church is not a building, it's God's people, loving one another and giving all glory to Jesus.

What do you do when temptation hits hard? In this powerful message from 1 Corinthians 10:11–13, we're reminded that every believer faces temptation—but God always provides a way out. Pastor unpacks three key truths: the challenge to remember where we've come from, the choice to stand firm in faith, and the consequence of giving in—or trusting God.Whether you're facing spiritual, emotional, or relational battles, this message will point you back to the hope and strength found in Christ alone.

In this message from 1 Timothy 4:12, Pastor Todd encourages graduates — and all believers — to live a life that reflects Jesus through our speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.On this special Graduate Recognition Sunday, we're reminded that no matter our age or stage of life, others are watching — and we have a calling to set the example.Listen in and be challenged to walk in integrity, live by faith, and lead others toward Christ through the way you live.For more messages or to plan your visit, head to forksbaptist.org.

On Mother's Day, Pastor Todd shares from 2 Timothy 1 about the legacy we leave behind. Be inspired to live a life of sincere faith, love, and purpose — one that points others to Christ and echoes through generations.

In this week's message from Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church, Pastor Todd explores Psalm 127 and reminds us that lasting hope is found only when our lives are anchored in Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit.Whether you're navigating parenting, facing uncertainty, or rebuilding what's been broken, this message offers practical truth and encouragement for today.Discover how to trust God as the builder of your home, your future, and your faith — and learn to live with the kind of hope the world can't shake.Learn more about our church or watch full services at forksbaptist.org.

In this message from Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church, we explore Psalm 127 and discover how to build a strong foundation for your life, your family, and your faith.Learn why Christ must be the cornerstone of your home and how prayer, Scripture, and church involvement strengthen your spiritual walk.Whether you're raising children, strengthening your marriage, or deepening your relationship with God, this message offers hope, encouragement, and biblical wisdom for the journey.Listen and be inspired to build God's way!Learn more about Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church at forksbaptist.org.

What are you truly seeking in life? Discover how Mary Magdalene's journey from demon-possessed to devoted follower reveals the path to genuine transformation and purpose. Ready to experience the life-changing power of the resurrection?

Finding peace and purpose through Jesus Christ during difficult times. Discover how staying close to the cross brings comfort, direction, and meaning to life. Learn practical ways to support others while facing your own challenges, following Jesus's example of selfless love. Explore the importance of seizing spiritual opportunities and responding to divine guidance. This message reveals how to find healing, peace, and purpose through a deeper relationship with Christ. Perfect for anyone seeking spiritual growth, dealing with life challenges, or wanting to make a meaningful impact in others' lives. Topics include spiritual growth, finding peace, life purpose, Christian living, faith journey, spiritual transformation, overcoming challenges, divine guidance, Holy Spirit, prayer life, serving others, spiritual decisions, faith in action, Christian community, biblical teaching.

Experience the transformative journey of Simon of Cyrene, an ordinary man whose life changed forever when he was forced to carry Jesus's cross. From marketplace bystander to witness of the crucifixion, discover how this unexpected encounter impacted not only Simon but his entire family. Learn about faith, divine appointments, spiritual transformation, and the power of unexpected moments with God. This powerful message explores themes of conversion, family faith, spiritual growth, Christian discipleship, and God's perfect timing. Understanding cross bearing, following Jesus, spiritual awakening, and family ministry through the lens of Simon's extraordinary experience. Perfect for those seeking inspiration, spiritual guidance, or understanding of biblical narratives. Keywords: Simon of Cyrene, Jesus Christ, crucifixion, spiritual transformation, family faith, divine encounters, Christian living, biblical teaching, spiritual growth, cross bearing.

Tired of searching for meaning in all the wrong places?

No matter how far you've strayed, grace awaits your return. The Prodigal Son story isn't just about a wayward child - it's about a Father who never stopped watching the horizon. Are you ready to come home?

Are your circumstances determining your joy? Discover the secret to unshakeable joy that persists even in life's darkest moments. Like gold refined by fire, your trials have purpose. Ready to transform your perspective on life's challenges?

Can you truly walk in God's light while holding onto darkness?

Has life's challenges dimmed your spiritual light?

Discover the transformative power of faith over fear through the timeless wisdom of Psalm 27. Learn how to overcome anxiety, worry, and uncertainty by understanding God as your light, salvation, and stronghold. This powerful message explores the concept of 'Godfidence' and provides practical steps for building unshakeable faith in challenging times. Perfect for anyone struggling with fear, seeking spiritual growth, or wanting to deepen their faith journey. Topics include overcoming anxiety, building faith, spiritual warfare, biblical wisdom, Christian living, personal development, emotional healing, and finding peace in God. Gain practical insights for facing life's challenges with divine confidence and learn how to tap into God's unlimited strength for every situation.

Are you measuring your worth by the world's standards or God's truth?

Are you hiding your light under a bowl? Like a city on a hill, your life has the power to illuminate the darkness around you. Discover how to become a beacon of hope in your community and workplace.

As we begin 2025, there's a pressing need for spiritual revival in our lives. Like physical spaces that need renovation and new lighting, our spiritual lives require revitalization. The path forward involves acknowledging our current spiritual state, repenting from sins, putting aside behaviors that don't reflect Christ, and clothing ourselves with His light. This transformation requires moving away from deeds of darkness such as immorality, dissension, and hidden sins, while actively pursuing God's light through prayer, Scripture, and transparent living.