Island Pond Baptist Church

Genesis 37 kicks off the story of Joseph, a narrative filled with betrayal, hardship, and divine purpose. Though Joseph is betrayed by his own brothers, thrown into a pit, and sold into slavery, we see that God never abandons him. This chapter highlights a dysfunctional family, unjust suffering, and God's sovereign hand working through it all. Joseph's story also serves as a powerful foreshadowing of Jesus—loved by the Father, hated by his own, betrayed, and yet ultimately raised up to The post Genesis 37 – God At Work In The Dark appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Genesis 38 shows us that even in the messiest, most unexpected parts of life, God is still at work. The story of Judah and Tamar is raw, uncomfortable, and often skipped—but it reminds us that God uses broken people and strange detours to accomplish his purposes. Judah's rejection, Tamar's boldness, and the sinful choices of both are not beyond God's reach. In fact, this bizarre chapter is a key link in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. God works through the The post Genesis 38 – The Detour That Led to Jesus appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

One conversation can change everything. In Luke 23, a dying criminal has a life-altering exchange with Jesus while hanging on a cross. This message walks through that powerful conversation and the shocking promise: “Today you will be with me in paradise.” We're reminded that salvation isn't about earning our way to heaven—it's about trusting the One with the authority to offer it. Whether you're someone who's wandered or someone who's never believed, Jesus is still extending grace today. Just like The post Luke 23:32-43 – A Conversation On The Cross appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

We often gravitate toward the flashiest option, but the story of Jesus' triumphal entry challenges us to think differently. In Genesis 35–36, we see two lines: one from Jacob, whose kings would come slowly but endure, and one from Esau, whose kings came quickly but faded. Jesus, the true King, comes from Jacob's line. Not with military might, but humbly riding on a donkey. Will we follow the fast and flashy kingdom, or the humble King who brings lasting peace? The post Genesis 35-36 – Two Roads To A King appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Genesis 34 is a powerful and painful reminder of what happens when worldly influences creep into our lives through spiritual “cracks.” Through the story of Dinah, Shechem, and Jacob's sons, we see the destructive results of loving the world, giving in to fleshly desires, uncontrolled anger, fear, and trying to earn God's favor through works. Pastor Kyle unpacks these themes and points to the only true solution: a heart transformed by Jesus Christ. Jesus came for spiritually cracked people—and instead The post Genesis 34 – Worldly Influences, Worldly Results appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

When Jacob found himself caught between an angry uncle and a furious brother, he turned to God in prayer. Though he wasn't known for being deeply devout, Jacob gave us a powerful example of how to pray when life feels overwhelming. He approached God humbly, reminded Him of His promises, and trusted in the covenant God had made. In the same way, we can come boldly to God—not because we've earned it, but because Jesus made a way. When trouble The post Genesis 32:9-12 – A Desperate Prayer appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Genesis 32 captures Jacob at a turning point—facing fear, clinging to self-reliance, and ultimately wrestling with God. Throughout the chapter, we see Jacob swing between faith and fear, confidence and control. But in the end, God meets him in his weakness, wounds him, and renames him. The limp Jacob receives becomes a symbol of spiritual strength—a reminder that God's power is made perfect not in our strength, but in our surrender. This message challenges us to stop striving in our The post Genesis 32 – Strength In Weakness appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Continuing our Genesis series, we explored Genesis 29, where Jacob, fleeing from his brother, arrives at his destination and falls for Rachel. But instead of a love story without complications, Jacob is deceived into marrying Leah first, showing that the trickster has met his match in Uncle Laban. Yet, even in this mess of deception and polygamy, God is at work. He uses Leah, the overlooked sister, to continue the lineage of Jesus through Judah, showing that God loves and The post Genesis 29 – The Greatest Wedding Prank Ever appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

We've returned to our Genesis series, diving into Genesis 28, where Jacob, fleeing from his brother Esau, has a significant dream about a ladder reaching to heaven. This vision isn't just about Jacob—it's a powerful symbol pointing to Jesus as the true connection between God and man. While the people of Babel tried to build their own way to heaven, Jacob's dream reveals that God is the one who comes down to us. Jesus confirms this in John 1:51, saying The post Genesis 28 – Jacob's Ladder appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Guest speaker, Sam Taylor, talks about the higher love that we have through Jesus Christ. Sam served as pastor for more than 20 years. Before coming to New England in 2007, he led a team of IMB missionaries helping to plant multiple churches in Eastern Europe. He now serves as the Global Missions Mobilizer for the Baptist Churches of New England (BCNE). Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also The post 2 Peter 1:5-8 – A Higher Love appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Guest speaker, Dwight Knight, looks at the story of Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4:25-41. Dwight is Co-founder and Executive Director of Challenge Ministries International (CMI).  He and his wife, Stephane, are in full-time ministry focusing on discipleship, teaching and counseling. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people at our church from surrounding cities such as Chester, Sandown, Danville, Kingston, Fremont, Plaistow, Atkinson, Derry, Londonderry, The post Mark 4:25-41 – Jesus Calms The Storm appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Have you ever been tricked into thinking something was better than it actually was? In Genesis 27, we see an entire family—Isaac, Rebekah, Esau, and Jacob—all trying to manipulate their way to what they want. But in the end, God's plan still stands. This passage reminds us that God's blessings don't depend on our goodness, and His will cannot be outsmarted. Instead of resisting Him, we're better off trusting and submitting to what He's already planned. If God can bless The post Genesis 27 – A Tricky Family appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

As we step into the new year, many of us have already broken our resolutions, including spiritual ones. This sermon addresses the challenge of spiritual stagnation and how to reignite faith by surrendering to Jesus Christ. We look at 2 Corinthians 4:4-7, which highlights how true spiritual growth begins with giving our lives to Christ and continues by allowing him to lead us daily. If you're feeling spiritually dry or seeking direction, this sermon will guide you toward renewing your The post 2 Corinthians 4:4-7 – From Blindness To Seeing appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

What happens when God gives you a test you never saw coming? In this sermon on Genesis 22, Pastor Kyle explores Abraham's greatest test—being asked to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac. Why would God command this? How does it fit with his character? And ultimately, how does this story foreshadow Jesus Christ and the gospel? Join us as we uncover how God provides, why obedience matters, and how Abraham's journey points us to the ultimate sacrifice—Jesus, the Lamb of God. The post Genesis 22:1-19 – The Lord Will Provide appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

What happens when we allow sin to take root in our lives and influence us and our families? In this sermon on Genesis 19:30-38, Pastor Kyle explores how Lot's decisions to embrace sin in a number of areas led to the perfect storm of sin in his family. An isolated Christian is an at-risk Christian. Sermon Clip   The message notes for the sermon can be downloaded by clicking on the “save” button. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC The post Genesis 19:30-38 – The Perfect Storm of Sin appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In this sermon on Genesis 18-19, we explore the tension between God's righteous judgment and his incredible mercy. Through the story of Sodom and Gomorrah, Pastor Kyle reveals how God's justice is tempered with grace, giving us hope through the intercession of Christ. Discover how this truth impacts your life today and be encouraged to turn to the one who offers salvation to all who believe! The intercession of Abraham gives us a picture of Jesus' intercession for us. Sermon The post Genesis 18-19 – Judgment and Mercy appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In this sermon on Genesis 17, we examine how God reaffirms His covenant with Abraham, giving him a new name, identity, and purpose. This “heavenly rebrand” signifies deeper intimacy with God, a promise to be a blessing to others, and the assurance of a heavenly homeland. Pastor Kyle highlights the transition from circumcision as the old covenant sign to baptism as the new covenant sign, symbolizing spiritual transformation in Christ. Christians are encouraged to embrace their new identity in Jesus The post Genesis 17 – A Heavenly Rebrand appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Guest speaker, Dave Herring, looks at the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32. Dave is a former church planter and pastor. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people at our church from surrounding cities such as Chester, Sandown, Danville, Kingston, Fremont, Plaistow, Atkinson, Derry, Londonderry, Salem, and Haverhill. If you live in Southern New Hampshire, we would love for you to come and visit!  The post Luke 15:11-32 – The Prodigal appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Luke 2:8-20, God chooses to reveal the exciting news of Jesus coming to the earth as a baby. Yet he does not reveal it to prestigious or well-known people. Instead, he sends angels to reveal it to some lowly shepherds. Pastor Kyle talks about how this is a pattern throughout the Bible. God loves to use the unqualified and unsuccessful to accomplish his will! Do I have any unqualified, unsuccessful people here? If so, prepare to be used by The post Luke 2:8-20 – Christmas Humility appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Life is filled with hardship, physical decline, and emotional pain. It leaves us longing for something better. Drawing from Philippians 3:20-21, Pastor Kyle reminds Christians that their citizenship is in heaven, and while they face challenges now, they are waiting for Christ's return, when he will transform broken bodies and make all things right. In the midst of hardships, there is hope through Jesus Christ. Sermon Clip   The message notes for the sermon can be downloaded by clicking on The post Philippians 3:20-21 – Christmas Hope appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

This sermon emphasizes joy in the face of difficulties, using Psalm 98 as the main text, which is the psalm that Isaac Watts based his hymn, “Joy To The World” off of. Pastor Kyle explains that true joy stems from understanding Jesus' work—His salvation offered to all through His death and resurrection. Even thought we all have struggles in life, they don't need to diminish the joy we can have when we keep the eternal perspective of salvation and heaven The post Psalm 98 – Christmas Joy appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Lay pastor Adam Houston, from Island Pond Baptist Church, shares from Psalm 119 on the importance of letting the word of God revive you. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people at our church from surrounding cities such as Chester, Sandown, Danville, Kingston, Fremont, Plaistow, Atkinson, Derry, Londonderry, Salem, and Haverhill. If you live in Southern New Hampshire, we would love for you to come and The post Psalm 119:25-32 – Are You In Need Of Revival? appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In this sermon, we look at how God's promise to Abram—sealed with a powerful and unique ceremony—points directly to Jesus Christ. God alone takes responsibility for fulfilling the covenant, foreshadowing Jesus bearing the punishment for humanity's sins. Through this lens, we explore the marks of spiritual maturity, such as living with contentment and faith that God is our shield and reward. The sermon challenges us to believe, live out our faith, and give thanks to the God who fulfills His The post Genesis 15 – The Abrahamic Covenant, Jesus, and You appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

This sermon explores the story of Abram, Sarai, and Hagar in Genesis 16, emphasizing the consequences of trying to “help” God fulfill His promises through human means rather than trusting His plan. Sarai, unable to conceive, persuades Abram to have a child with her servant Hagar, leading to conflict and tension. Hagar flees but is met by an angel of the Lord, who prophesies about her son, Ishmael, and offers comfort to her. This passage parallels Jesus' encounter with the The post Genesis 16 – God Doesn't Need Our Help appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Genesis 12-14, Abram goes through a range of experiences, both good and bad. We see an “uh-oh” moment, some adventurous “yee-haw” moments, and an amazing experience with a priest and king (“oh my”!). In this sermon, Pastor Kyle looks at what we can learn from these experiences and talks about how Christ can be seen in this passage. Melchizedek is greater than Abram and Israel's priests. Sermon Clip   The message notes for the sermon can be downloaded by The post Genesis 12-14 – Uh-Oh, Hmmm, Yee-Haw, and Oh My! appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Genesis 12 we are introduced to a man named Abram (later changed to Abraham). Abraham is one of the most important characters in the Old Testament. In this first chapter on his life, we learn about his calling and the promises that God makes to him. What the Israelites (as a whole) could not do, the one Israelite, Jesus Christ, DID do! Sermon Clip   The message notes for the sermon can be downloaded by clicking on the “save” The post Genesis 12 – Promises and Faith appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Genesis 10-11, the world has begun to repopulate but the people once again turn from God. In this sermon, Pastor Kyle talks about the pride and idolatry of the people at Babel and how Christ is the one that heals and unifies from pride. Whereas pride divides, Jesus unites! Sermon Clip   The message notes for the sermon can be downloaded by clicking on the “save” button. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just The post Genesis 10-11 – The Tower of Pride appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Genesis 8-9, the story of Noah and the ark wraps up and they all make it safely out of the boat. Pastor Kyle shares several characteristics that we can learn about God based on his dealings with Noah in these chapters. Salvation is shown through the story of Noah. Sermon Clip   The message notes for the sermon can be downloaded by clicking on the “save” button. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just The post Genesis 8-9 – The God of Noah appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Earlier this week, I was on Facebook, and I came across a picture that said, “Not a cell phone in sight. Just people living in the moment.” And apparently, this has become a popular catch-phrase when posting about the “good ole days” before there were cell phones. The post Genesis 6-7 – Judgment Day appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Guest speaker Pastor Jonathan Wright, from the First Baptist Church of Lake Butler, FL, shares from Hosea on knowing Jesus Christ. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people at our church from surrounding cities such as Chester, Sandown, Danville, Kingston, Fremont, Plaistow, Atkinson, Derry, Londonderry, Salem, and Haverhill. If you live in Southern New Hampshire, we would love for you to come and visit!  The post Hosea 6 – Let Us Know The Lord appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Genesis 4-5, we see the fall of mankind into sinfulness and decay. Just one generation after walking with God, the first person commits murder. After the murder, Cain and his family grow in their depravity. As this is taking place, Adam and Eve were likely wondering if God's promise of a savior would ever happen. But just when it seemed like nothing would happen, God steps in and sends them a new son, Seth. What we need to always The post Genesis 4-5 – God's Promises Always Triumph appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Genesis 3, Adam and Eve are deceived by the serpent and eat the fruit that God told them not to eat. In this sermon, Pastor Kyle shows how Adam and Eve got the point of disobeying and what God did to save them. How are you currently ruining your life? Sermon Clip   The message notes for the sermon can be downloaded by clicking on the “save” button. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, The post Genesis 3 – How To Ruin Your Life appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Genesis 2 focuses on day 6 of creation, which includes the creation of man and woman. Pastor Kyle shows how this very first marriage reveals some principles on marriage and then how it points to Jesus Christ. Your marriage is a picture of Christ and the church to the world. Sermon Clip   The message notes for the sermon can be downloaded by clicking on the “save” button. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just The post Genesis 2 – The First Marriage appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Pastor Kyle looks at Genesis 1, the very first chapter of the Bible. He then shows how Jesus Christ  is linked to passages like John 1 and what that means for us today. Are you spreading his glory all around the earth? Sermon Clip   The message notes for the sermon can be downloaded by clicking on the “save” button. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many The post Genesis 1 – A Different Kind of God appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Psalm 139, the psalmist talks about how we belong with God. He knows us, he is with us, and he made us wonderfully. Knowing this should direct our actions in life. In this sermon, Pastor Kyle talks about why it is so important that we belong with God and what we should do about it. Since we belong with God, we need to fiercely protect our intimacy with him. Sermon Clip   The message notes for the sermon can The post Psalm 139 – You Belong With Me appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Psalm 91, we see a number of different fears that a person would experience in the ancient world. Yet in the midst of all those big fears, Psalm 91 shows that God is bigger than each of them. In this sermon, Pastor Kyle explains what this means for us and then spends time answering a very important question regarding the tension we see between God being bigger than these fears and people still suffering. My God is able to, The post Psalm 91 – God is Bigger Than Our Fears appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Psalm 84, the Sons of Korah give a similar sentiment, but about being near God. As ones how worked in the temple, they wanted to inspire others to come and be near God. In this sermon, Pastor Kyle explores this idea and shows that there is truly no place like be at home with God. Are you keeping your temple clean and comfortable for the Holy Spirit? Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message The post Psalm 84 – Home Sweet Home appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Guest preacher Sam Taylor shares from Psalm 92 on the importance of praising God. Sam served as pastor for more than 20 years. Before coming to New England in 2007, he led a team of IMB missionaries helping to plant multiple churches in Eastern Europe. In 2015, Sam became the Director of the Greater Boston Baptist Association.   Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people at The post Psalm 92 – A Song Worth Singing appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Guest speaker Eric Lee shares from Psalm 23  on God giving us comfort because he is our shepherd. Eric is a former church planter and current member of Island Pond Baptist Church.   Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people at our church from surrounding cities such as Chester, Sandown, Danville, Kingston, Fremont, Plaistow, Atkinson, Derry, Londonderry, Salem, and Haverhill. If you live in Southern New The post Psalm 23 – Our Comfort From Our Shepherd appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Pastor Kyle looks at Psalm 19. In this psalm, we see two ways that God speaks to us. In a more general sense, God speaks through creation. But the primary way that God speaks to us is through his Word. The heavens declare the glory of God and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message can be downloaded by clicking on the above “save” button) Island Pond Baptist Church is The post Psalm 19 – How God Speaks To Us Today appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Pastor Kyle looks at Psalm 1. In this psalm, we see two ways to be blessed. We are blessed when we meditate on God's word and avoid falling into sin. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message can be downloaded by clicking on the above “save” button) Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in The post Psalm 1 – The Blessed Person appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Guest speaker Dr. Terry Dorsett from the Baptist Churches of New England shares from Philippians 1:3-6 on staying focused on Jesus until the work is done. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people at our church from surrounding cities such as Chester, Sandown, Danville, Kingston, Fremont, Plaistow, Atkinson, Derry, Londonderry, Salem, and Haverhill. If you live in Southern New Hampshire, we would love for you to The post Philippians 1:3-6 – Until the Work is Done appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Matthew 7:24-29, Jesus wraps up the Sermon on the Mount by telling about two people. One built a house on a firm foundation while the other built a house on sand. Pastor Kyle shows how we need to make sure our lives are built upon the right foundation as well. If you believe that Jesus has authority then you will listen to (and obey) what he says. Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message The post Matthew 7:24-29 – Building A Strong Foundation In Life appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Luke 15:1-10, Jesus tells two parables to demonstrate how much he cares for those that are spiritually lost. Pastor Kyle looks at these and talks about what it means for us today. If Jesus cares for the lost, then we should too! Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message can be downloaded by clicking on the above “save” button) Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, The post Luke 15:1-10 – Jesus Loves The Lost appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Guest preacher Richard Cason from Madison Street Baptist Church in Starke, Florida shares from John 12:30-33 on keeping the gospel message as the main focus of your life. Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people at our church from surrounding cities such as Chester, Sandown, Danville, Kingston, Fremont, Plaistow, Atkinson, Derry, Londonderry, Salem, and Haverhill. If you live in Southern New Hampshire, we would love for The post John 12:20-33 – Beatific Vision appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Matthew 7:15-23, Jesus talks about how your life can either produce good or bad fruit. Which type do you want to come out of your life? Thus you will recognize them by their fruits (Matthew 7:20). Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message can be downloaded by clicking on the above “save” button) Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people The post Matthew 7:15-23 – Good and Bad Fruit appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Pastor Kyle shares from Acts 2:42-47 which looks at four marks that showed the early church was spiritually healthy. May we have these four marks in our lives and church today! They held stubbornly onto the gospel!   Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message can be downloaded by clicking on the above “save” button) Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people The post Acts 2:42-47 – Four Marks of a Healthy Church appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Matthew 7:12-14, Jesus talks about living out two seemingly contradictory aspects of the Christian life: living with love for others while also living narrowly. Jesus says he is the only way!  Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message can be downloaded by clicking on the above “save” button) Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people at our church from surrounding The post Matthew 7:12-14 – Living Lovingly Yet Narrowly appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In Matthew 7:7-11, Jesus talks about the importance of prayer. We should pray persistently and we should pray confidently. Ask… and keep on asking! Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message can be downloaded by clicking on the above “save” button) Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have many people at our church from surrounding cities such as Chester, Sandown, Danville, Kingston, Fremont, The post Matthew 7:7-11 – Christians: Pray! appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In this passage Jesus talks about not judging others. But does he mean that we should never make judgments about other people or does he have something else in mind? Pastor Kyle talks about the three types of judgments that Jesus is telling Christians to avoid: foolish, prideful, and hypocritical judgments. Jesus prohibits a critical spirit, but does not forbid all use of the critical faculty. Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message can be The post Matthew 7:1-6 – What Does It Mean To “Judge Not”? appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

In this passage Jesus talks about not giving in to anxiety. Christians are called to seek after God and put him first, not worry about the things of life. But seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness!  Sermon Clip (The teaching sheet with the main points of the message can be downloaded by clicking on the above “save” button) Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry, NH. We also have The post Matthew 6:25-34 – Seeking Instead of Worrying appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.