Northwest Bible Church OKC

Northwest Bible Church - May 17, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew 6:16-18 Fasting Intro A. DEFINITION OF FASTING. 1. A Christian's voluntary abstinence from food for spiritual purposes.   2.  A broader use.     B. PRACTICE OF FASTING 1. OT practice a. Mandatory for the Day of Atonement. b. Voluntary fasting for other occasions. 2. NT practice.   a. Christ fasted for 40 days, Matthew 4:2.      b. Pharisees.  Luke 18:12 ‘I fast twice a week;  c. Apostles and others.   Acts 13:2-3; 14:23. C. PURPOSE OF FASTING 1. To humble the flesh in order to humble the soul. Psalms 35:13; Isaiah 58:6; Joel 2:12-13 2. To seek God for a blessing.   Isaiah 58:4 3. To intensify our prayers.   Psalms 42:1-2 D. ABUSES OF FASTING (Matthew 6:16). 1. Fasting as a hypocrite.   Matthew 6:16 2. Merit in physical abuse.   Colossians 2:20-23 3. Secularizing danger.      E. PROPER FASTING (Matthew 6:17-18). 1. Don't advertise it.    2. God will reward you.  

Northwest Bible Church - May 10, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew 6:13 Lead us not into temptation Intro  A.  DO NOT LEAD US INTO TEMPTATION. The nature of this temptation. a. Not “temptation” as an enticement to sin.  James 1:13 b. “Temptation” can refer to testing.  Genesis 22:1-2; Deuteronomy 8:2, 26 Temptations expose our inner character. B. BUT DELIVER US FROM THE EVIL ONE. Satan is probably in view.     “Deliver” - to rescue someone from a fate he cannot escape on his own.   Jesus is the perfect example of overcoming all temptations.   Matthew 4:1-11 Means of grace to overcome Satan's temptations. a. armor of God.  Ephesians 6:10-18 b. the sword of the Spirit.    1 John 2:14; Psalms 119:9-11 C. DOXOLOGY Almost certainly a later addition.    Adopt it as your own personal words of praise to God.   D. LESSONS We are weaker than we think.     God is our Keeper.   1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Peter 2:9 Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - May 3, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew 6:12 Forgive us Intro I. THE REQUEST FOR FORGIVENESS (Matthew 6:12a). A. What are the “debts”?   Luke 11:4; Matthew 6:14-15   B. Request for forgiveness is not for justification here but sanctification.    C. Why should we regularly ask our Father for forgiveness? 1. Aborts the spread of sin.  2. Restores broken fellowship with God.    Mark 11:25; Psalms 66:18 3. Jesus knows we still have the flesh and need forgiveness.  1 John 1:9 II. THE MOTIVATION FOR FORGIVENESS (Matthew 6:12b). A. The meaning of “as also”.   Does not introduce merit but evidence. B.  The importance of forgiving others. 1. It indicates a humble and gracious heart.    2. It is sanctifying.   III. CONSEQUENCES OF UNFORGIVENESS (Matthew 6:14-15). A. If you forgive, you will be forgiven (Matthew 6:14).    B. If you do not forgive, you will not be forgiven (Matthew 6:15).   Cf. Matthew. 18:23-35 C. What about forgiving those who don't repent? D. Why forgive others? 1. God's providence reigns over all things.    2. Romans. 8:28.     3. Forgive because we have been forgiven more.    Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - April 26, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew. 6:11 Our Daily Bread Intro A. PERSPECTIVE: THE FOCUS ON PHYSICAL NEEDS. 1. Christ's perspective on our physical needs.  Matthew. 6:25, 33. 2. Spiritual life has precedence over physical.     B. PETITION: GIVE US 1. “Give” -  2. “us” -   C. PARTICULARS: THIS DAY OUR DAILY BREAD 1. “Bread” -  2. Normal means of God giving bread is from our labors.   3. Lesson from this petition -  a. Total dependence - James. 1:17 b. Daily dependence - Proverbs. 30:8-9 c. Universal dependence -  d. Responsible dependence - Proverbs. 6:8   e. Thankful dependence  -  f. Spiritual dependence -   D. GOD'S ABILITY TO PROVIDE.   Conclusion

Mike Southerland Continues in Ephesians. Sermon notes included below.  Ephesians 2:10-16 “We Are His Workmanship” I. Introduction II. We Are His Workmanship A. Creation B. God's children specifically III. Good Works A. Works as filthy rags B. Good Works from Soli Deo Gloria C. Free will IV. God's Chosen People – The Church A. God's people were Christians, though in the Old Testament they weren't yet called that. B. We are all one in Christ Jesus V. Conclusion A. God created us for good works B. God's church is made up of all ethnicities and nations C. There is no Jew and Gentile. All of us “in Christ” are God's chosen people

Northwest Bible Church - April 12, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew 6:10 God's Kingdom and Will Intro  A.  THE MEANING OF KINGDOM. 1. BDAG - 1. The act of ruling; royal power, rule and reign.  This is the primary component, God's reigning activity.    2. territory ruled by a king, kingdom. 2. TDNT, I:582f.   1. the essential meaning is reign rather than realm.  2. this reign comes down by divine intervention, not by human efforts.  .  .  3. “the concern of the kingdom as God's action towards man is soteriological, so that our explanation of it stands or falls with our explanation of soteriology generally in the preaching of Jesus Christ and His apostles.”    B. THE PRESENT KINGDOM. 1. The kingdom of God came with Jesus.  Mark. 1:15; Luke. 17:20-21 2. The kingdom of God has come.  Matthew. 12:28; Acts 5:16; 8:7 3. The keys of the kingdom were given.  Matthew. 16:18-19; 18:18. 4. The kingdom of God was given to the church.  Matthew. 21:43; Luke. 12:32; Revelation. 1:6 5. The kingdom started small and grew.  Matthew. 13:31-32 6. The kingdom is being entered now.  Luke. 16:16 7. Christ's kingdom is not of this world.  John 18:36; Colossians. 1:13 C. HOW TO PRAY “THY KINGDOM COME”. 1. ETHICAL - Intensively for God's people.   2. EVANGELISTIC - Extensively among the lost.    3.  ESCHATOLOGICAL - ultimately for the future. D. THY WILL BE DONE ON EARTH AS IN HEAVEN. 1.  Reference is to God's “revealed will” of His moral law now and future glory.   2.  Immediate, complete and whole-hearted obedience on earth as in heaven.   3. This is needed both by unbelievers and believers.    Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - April 5, 2026 - Resurrection Day - Alan Conner John 18-21 Christ's Death and Resurrection Intro A.  THE ARREST - John 18:1-6. 1. Christ is in control.   2. “I am” and the mob falls (John 18:6).   B. THE TRIAL - John 18:12-19:15. 1. The Jewish trial a. Before Annas, John 18:12-24.    b. Before Caiaphas, John 18:24-27.     c. A kangaroo court trial. d. Jesus supplied the evidence for their conviction (Matthew 26:63-64). 2. The Roman trial (John 18:28-19:15). a. Did not want to get involved, John 18:31 b. John 18:31-32, Prophecy must be fulfilled, Isaiah 53:5; Psalms 22:16; Zechariah 12:10.    c. Pilate interviews Jesus and concludes, “I find no guilt in Him” (John 18:38). d. Jesus is scourged, crown of thorns, purpose robe, mocked, slapped (John 19:1-2). e. Pilate, “I find no guilt in Him” (John 19:4). f. Chief priests and officers, CRUCIFY, CRUCIFY (John 19:6). g. Pilate, “I find no guilt in Him” (John 19:6-15). C. THE CRUCIFIXION (John 19:16-37). 1. Jesus carried His own cross (John 19:17). 2. The inscription: JESUS THE NAZARENE, THE KING OF THE JEWS (John 19:19).   3. Casting lots for His clothes (John 19:23-24).  Fulfills prophecy, Psalms 22:18 (John 19:24). 4. Jesus' sayings on the cross:     5 of 7 dealing with redemption. a. “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they are doing.” Luke 23:34 b. “Today, you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43 c. “MY GOD, MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?”  Matthew 27:46; Psalms 22:1.   d. “It is finished.” John 19:30.   A CRY OF VICTORY.    e. “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Luke 23:46; Psalm 31:5.   5. No broken legs (John 19:31-37).   6. Soldiers pierced His side and out came blood and water (John 19:34).   D. THE BURIAL (John 19:38-42). 1. Joseph of Arimathea, the secret disciple requests Jesus body (John 19:38).   2. Nicodemus, the devoted follower brings 100 lbs. of spices (John 19:39).    E. THE RESURRECTION (John 20-21). 1. Mary Magdalene is the first to report the empty tomb (John 20:1-2).    2. Peter and John run to the tomb, Peter sees, but John believed (John 20:6-8). 3. Mary returns and looks into the tomb, sees two angels (John 20:11-18).    4. Jesus' first appearance to the disciples (John 20:19-25).   THOMAS DOUBTS. 5. Jesus' second appearance to the disciples (John 20:26-29).  Thomas, “MY LORD AND MY GOD.”   6. Jesus' appearance to the disciples at the Sea of Galilee (John 21:1-25).   a. Jesus restores Peter.   b. “FOLLOW ME” (John 21:19, 22). Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - March 29, 2024 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew. 6:9 Hallowed be Thy Name Intro  A. HALLOWED BE THY NAME. 1. A request not a statement.     2. Meaning of “hallowed”.   3. Meaning of “Your name.”    4. Realms of application.     a. in my heart b. in our church c. in the world 5.  The need for this petition.      6. The temporal perspective.    B.  HOW TO HALLOW GOD'S NAME. 1. By meditating on His Word and works.  Psalms. 119:38; 111:2 2. Hallowing and harvesting.     3. God sanctifies His name through the gospel.    4. Response. Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - Mar. 22, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew. 6:9 The Lord's Prayer Intro   OUTLINE:    Address;   “Our Father who art in heaven”         Requests:1-3  deals with God's glory;           Requests: 4-6 deals with man's need (pardon, provision, protection) A. THE MODEL PRAYER (Matthew 6:9a). 1. “Pray” is a present tense imperative.    2. “you” is emphatic. 3. “Then” indicates the conclusion to Jesus' previous teaching on prayer.    4. “in this way” -  this prayer is a model. B. OUR FATHER (Matthew 6:9b). 1. The name “Father” in Matthew.   a. “your Father”, “My Father.”     b. Israel's concept of God as Father.    c. Our relationship with the Father.    2. “Our Father”  a. speaks to an exclusive relationship.    b. speaks to an inclusive relationship.    C.  WHO IS IN HEAVEN (Matthew 6:9b). 1. Plural, “heavens”.       2. The significance of “heaven”.       Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - March 15, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew. 6:5-8 Principles of Prayer Intro  A. THE IMPORTANCE OF PRAYER TO JESUS. 1. In His own personal life He was committed to prayer: 2. Jesus also emphasized prayer in His teaching.    B. THE FAULTY PRAYERS OF HYPOCRITES (Matthew 6:5). “When you pray, don't be like the hypocrites” -  1. Wrong motive: they love to stand when they pray.    2. Wrong location: synagogues and street corners.      3. Wrong audience:  to be seen by men.     4. Paid in full.   C. THE RIGHT WAY TO PRAY (Matthew 6:6). 1.  Go into your inner room, close the door.     2. Pray in secret.      3. Your Father will reward you.     D. THE FAULTY PRAYERS OF GENTILES (Matthew 6:7-8). 1. Do not use “meaningless repetition” (Matthew 6:7a).   a. speak without thinking, rote repetition of formulas of prayer.    b. to babble, to stammer.   Grk = “battalogeō”.   2. Wrong assumption: they will be heard for their many words (Matthew 6:7b).    3. Correction: your Father knows what you need before you ask Him (Matthew 6:8).      Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - Mar. 8, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew. 6:1-4 Hypocrisy in Giving Intro  A.  GENERAL PRINCIPLE: HYPOCRISY IS BAD (Matthew 6:1).       1.  “Beware” -  2.  The danger: “practicing your righteousness before men to be seen by them.”      a. What is a hypocrite (Matthew 6:2)?    b. What is the motive of the hypocrite?  3. No reward with your Father in heaven.   B. UNGODLY GIVING TO THE POOR (Matthew 6:2).   1. “When you give” -   2. Do not sound a trumpet as the hypocrites do.   3. The desire to be honored by men.  4. They have their reward in full.   C. GODLY GIVING TO THE POOR (Matthew 6:3-4). 1. “When you give to the poor” -  2.  Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing (Matthew 6:3).   3. Give in secret (Matthew 6:3).     4. Your Father will reward you (Matthew 6:4).   Conclusion -   

Northwest Bible Church - March 1, 2-26 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew. 5:43-48 Love your Enemies Intro A. THE FAULTY JEWISH VIEW (Matthew 5:43).      1.  Love your neighbor.   a. Who is our neighbor? b. Their answer:  fellow Jew with whom you have good relations. 2. Hate your enemy.      a. Not in the O.T. so what is the justification for this attitude? b. Who is our enemy? B.  JESUS CORRECTS THE FAULTY JEWISH VIEW (Matthew 5:44). 1. Love your enemies.      a. Note the present tense and it is plural. b. Love for the non-Jew in the O.T.   Leviticus. 19:3-34;  Exodus. 23:4-5; Proverbs. 25:21 2. Pray for those who persecute you.    Cf. Luke. 6:27-28 C.  REASONS TO LOVE OUR ENEMIES (Matthew 5:45-47). 1. You will be sons of your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:45a).     2. You will imitate God's common grace love to all His creatures (Matthew 5:45b).   3. Your love will be greater than mere friendship love (Matthew 5:46-47).    a.  Question #1.   “If you love those who love you, what reward do you have?”    b. Question #2.   “Do not even the tax collectors do the same?”   c. Question #3.  “If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others?” (Matthew 5:47).    d. Question #4.  “Do not even the Gentiles do the same?”     D.  BE PERFECT AS YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER IS PERFECT (Matthew 5:48).   1. Your love should be perfect.   2. This is what we aim for.    Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - Feb. 22, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew. 5:40-42 Dealing with Conflicts Intro  A. HOW TO RESPOND WHEN ATTACKED LEGALLY (Matthew 5:40). 1. Guilty?        2. The regulations of the law.    Exodus. 22:26; Deuteronomy. 24:13, 3. If they take your shirt (inner garment), give them your coat (outer garment) also. B. HOW TO RESPOND WHEN COERSED BY THE GOVERNMENT (Matthew 5:41).   1. The Roman practice of conscription.    2. The proper response.    C. HOW TO RESPOND WHEN ASKED FOR SOMETHING (Matthew 5:42).   1. It is assumed that the request is legitimate.      2. The proper response is to have a generous heart.    Leviticus. 25:35; Deuteronomy. 15:7-8. Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - Feb. 15, 2026 - Ephesians - Mike Southerland Ephesians 2:4-9 “But God…” Introduction "But God" changes everything. Being Rich in Mercy/Alive Together with Christ Mercy triumphs over judgment "That's Not Fair!" by Galal Ahmed III.What has God done, according to verses 5 and 6? He made us alive with Christ. Exchanged heart of stone for a heart of flesh He raised us up with Him Col 1:18 Acts 17:28 Galatians 2:20 He seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus Christ is our federal head. He represents us in Heaven. IV.Salvation is a gift of God Ages to come Surpassing Riches of His Grace By grace we are saved Gifts are given, not earned You should not seek to pay a donor for their Not from works. Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - Feb. 8, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew. 5:38-42 Turning the Other Cheek Intro  A. THE O.T. law of Lex Talionis (Matthew 5:38). 1. Jesus quotes from Exodus. 21:22-25; Leviticus. 24:19-20; Deuteronomy. 19:15-21.   2. The Lex Talionis laws were to be applied by the court's judicial system. 3. The punishment must be just and fair.    4. The O.T. taught against personal revenge.  Leviticus. 19:18; Proverbs. 24:29; 20:22; 25:21. B. THE RABBINIC DISTORTION. 1. Personal revenge rather than punishment by the courts.    2. Retaliation was assumed to be a personal right or duty.    C. CHRIST'S CORRECTION (Matthew 5:39-42).      “But I say to you” (Matthew 5:39). 1. PRINCIPLE:  “Do not resist an evil person” (Matthew 5:39).    a. What it does not mean: (1) can't rebuke one for sin (Galatians. 2:11). (2) no self-defense (Exodus. 21).   (3) no stand against evil.    b. What does Jesus mean?     No revenge on a personal level. 2.  EXAMPLES:  Do not resist a slap on the cheek, but turn the other (Matthew 5:39b).     a.  Christ's example during His trial.  Isaiah. 50:6 b.  Don't seek revenge when persecuted.    Jam. 5:6; Hebrews. 10:34 c.  Return good for evil.  Romans. 12:17-21. d.  Love does not take revenge.   Matthew. 5:44; 1 Corinthians. 13:5    D. QUALIFICATIONS TO THE PRINCIPLE. 1.  A slap is an insulting gesture.     2.   Law of self defense is biblical, Exodus. 21. 3. Does it matter if it is a higher authority doing the persecution or harm?  Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church - Feb. 1, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew. 5:33-37 Vows and Oaths Intro A. WHAT IS AN OATH AND A VOW? 1. Oath is calling upon God to bear witness to the truthfulness of our words. 2. Vow is a promise we make to God to do something. B.  OATHS AND VOWS. 1. The O.T. teaching.  Leviticus. 19:12; Numbers. 30:2; Deuteronomy. 23:21-23; Exodus. 20:7. 2. Jesus summary (v. 33).  ‘YOU SHALL NOT MAKE FALSE VOWS, BUT SHALL FULFILL YOUR VOWS TO THE LORD.'   C. PHARISAICAL PERVERSIONS. 1.  Oaths became clever lies.    2. They were experts in creating loopholes.    Matthew. 23:16-22 D. CHRIST'S TEACHINGS (vv. 34-37). 1. Make no oath at all (vv. 34-36).      a. Not by heaven, or by the earth, or by Jerusalem.   b. Nor by your head.     c. Not saying that taking an oath in a court of law is wrong.   2. “Yes, yes or No, no; anything beyond these is of evil” (v. 37).     3. The character of the righteous is that they tell the truth.    Psalms. 15:4; Jam. 5:12 LESSONS

Northwest Bible Church - Jan. 25, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew 5:31-32 Divorce and Remarriage Intro A. THE O.T. TEACHING ON DIVORCE FROM DEUTERONOMY 24:1-4 (Matthew 5:31). “It was said”  Observations on Deuteronomy 24:1-4. a. There is no command to divorce, nor is God giving grounds for divorce.    b. The meaning of “indecency.” The prevailing view was that of Hillel: divorce for any reason.     B. CHRIST'S VIEW ON DIVORCE (Matthew 5:31-32). Jesus' view has only one exception.     The added information from Matthew 19: a.  19:4-6.  Christ appeals to God's original design for marriage.   b.  19:8.  Divorce was allowed due to the hardness of their hearts.  c.  19:9.  Jesus repeats the one exception rule mentioned in Matthew 5:32.    The meaning of “unchastity”  (porneia) is sexual sin in general (Matthew 5:32).    How did the death penalty for adultery get changed to divorce? a. Sinful unwillingness to obey, and God allowing divorce. b. In 1st century Judaism, the law required divorce for an adulterous wife. c. The law seems to allow for lesser punishments (Numbers 35:30-31). d. God's example of divorcing Israel, Jeremiah 3:8.  SUMMARY

Northwest Bible Church - Jan. 18, 2026 - Matthew - Alan Conner Matthew 5:27-30 The Sin of Adultery Intro A. THE 7TH COMMANDMENT (Matthew 5:27-28). The implied oral law interpretation of the 7th commandment (Matthew 5:27). Jesus' interpretation of the 7th commandment (Matthew 5:28). a. “Lust” = adultery in the heart.   Cf. the 10th commandment  b. The present tense “looks” indicates a gazing look with sexual intent.   The problem of lust today.    B. THE REMEDY FOR THE SIN (Matthew 5:29-30). Understand the danger. Take immediate action. a. Remove your right eye or right hand.   b. Cast it from you.   The wisdom principle:  It is better to lose a little than to lose everything.   C. PRACTICAL APPLICATION Always be on the alert for sin.   Proverbs 4:23; 1 Peter 5:8. Guard what you look at.  Psalms 101:3; 119:37; Job 31:1 Remove the source of temptation.    Proverbs 5-7; Genesis 39:12; Acts 19:19. Say NO to sin.     1 Peter 2:11; 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 Remember your new condition. Romans 6:11; Galatians 5:24 Remember your Helper.  Romans 8:13; Galatians 5:16 When you fail, repent of your sin, pray for more grace and start over with #1.     Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Jan. 11, 2026 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:21-26 The Law against Murder Intro A. THE LAW TO THE ANCIENTS (Matthew 5:21). “You have heard that the ancients were told” –  the 6th commandment – “You shall not commit murder.”    “Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.”   Two errors.   a. the oral law limited this sin to just the outward action of murder.     b. they limit punishment to the courts of men.    B. THE LAW FROM CHRIST (Matthew 5:22). “But I say to you.”    The law addresses the heart.      a. attitude of anger  b. words of anger.   (1) RACA -   (2) FOOL -  The punishment from man and God.   C. APPLICATIONS OF THE LAW (Matthew 5:23-26). Reconciliation before worship (Matthew 5:23-24).    Reconciliation before jail (Matthew 5:25-26).      Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Jan. 4, 2026 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:18-20 The Law of God Intro A. THE DURATION OF THE LAW (Matthew 5:18).  The Law in its entirety shall last until the end of this creation. a. iota = smallest letter of the Greek alphabet. b. stroke = probably a tiny projection on some of the letters.   c. the double negative for emphasis.  “until all is accomplished” - a. Jesus was born under the law.   Galatians 4:4-5 b. Christ will usher in a new priesthood and a change of law.  Hebrews 7:12 Changes to the law. a. Ceremonial law is fulfilled.   Colossians 2:16-17; Hebrews 8:5; 10:1 b. Dietary laws are fulfilled.   Mark 7:18-19 c. Civil/judicial laws are expired.   The moral law continues.   Romans 7:14, 22; 1 Corinthians 7:19; 1 John 2:3; James 2:8. B. STATUS IN THE KINGDOM (Matthew 5:19). Least in the kingdom. Great in the kingdom. C. RIGHTEOUSNESS IN THE KINGDOM (Matthew 5:20).   The righteousness of Jesus' kingdom demands perfection.    Galatians 3:10-11 The righteousness of Jesus' kingdom is both external and internal. Heaven requires a higher righteousness. a. It must be sought after.  Matthew 5:6; 6:33 b. It is a righteousness that comes from God through faith.  Romans 3:21-22; 10:4; Philippians 3:9 c. It is a gift of righteousness by faith demonstrated through works. Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Dec. 28, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:17 Christ Fulfills the Law and Prophets Intro A. JESUS DID NOT COME TO ABOLISH THE LAW AND THE PROPHETS. “Do not think” -    Jesus does not abolish the law and prophets.     B. JESUS CAME TO FULFILL THE LAW AND THE PROPHETS. Primary meaning: Christ fulfilled all the prophecies and types of O.T.    a. Prophecies:  b. Types:    Secondary meaning: Christ fulfilled the law by His perfect obedience.  a. Jer. 23:5-6 b. Isa. 53:11 Secondary meaning: Christ fulfills the law by correctly interpreting the law.  a. Matthew 5:21-48 b. Lk. 24:27 Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Dec. 21, 2025 – Christmas – Alan Conner Christmas Revelations Gospels of Matthew/Luke Intro A. GABRIEL TO ZACHARIAS     Luke 1:17  B. GABRIEL TO MARY. Luke 1:31-35  C. AN ANGEL TO JOSEPH Matt. 1:20-23  D. THE HOLY SPIRIT IN ELIZABETH AND JOHN 1. Luke 1:15  2. Luke 1:41-44  E. THE HOLY SPIRIT IN ZACHARIAS 1. Luke 1:67-69  2. Luke 1:76-79 F. AN ANGEL TO THE SHEPHERDS 1. Luke 2:8-12    2. Lk. 2:13-20 G. THE HOLY SPIRIT ON SIMEON     Luke 2:25-32  H. THE STAR AND THE MAGI  Matt. 2:1-11  Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Dec. 14, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:14-16 You are the Light of the World Intro  A. THE WORLD IS DARKNESS. The symbolism of darkness.   The world of darkness needs light.    B. CHRIST IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. The role of Israel.    Isa. 60:1-3.   The Messiah was prophesied to be “a light to the nations.” Isa. 42:6; 49:6; Matthew 4:16. Light symbolizes primarily salvation and life.  Isa. 49:6; Jn. 1:4; 8:12.    C. YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD (Matthew 5:14-16). The disciples of Jesus are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14).     The light comes from God.    Jn. 3:19-20; 2 Cor. 4:6; Col. 1:13 The light must shine and not be hidden (Matthew 5:14b-15). a. The light exposes what's in the dark.    b. A city on a hill cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14b).    c. A lamp is not lit and put under a basket (Matthew 5:15).    The nature of our shining (Matthew 5:16).    a. good words. b. good works.     The purpose of our shining: the glory of the Father (Matthew 5:16).    Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Dec. 7, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:13-16 Salt and light Intro A. THE SALT OF THE EARTH (Matthew 5:13).  The uses of salt.     a. add flavor to food.  Job 6:6; Col. 4:6.   b. preservation.   Numb. 18:19; 2 Chron. 13:5. c. purification.   Lev. 2:13; Ezek. 43:24; Ex. 30:35. How do Christians function as salt. a. by holy living and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom. b. promoting godly values.    Prov. 14:34.  B.  BAD SALT AS A PICTURE OF AN APOSTATE. Tasteless salt. Not the saved who loses salvation.     1 Jn. 3:9; 2:19 Good for nothing.  Lk. 14:34-35 trampled under foot by men.    Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Nov. 30, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are the Persecuted Intro A. THE RANGE OF PERSECUTION (Matthew 5:10-11). “persecuted” (Matthew 5:10-11) – “insult” (Matthew 5:11) –  “falsely say all kinds of evil against you” (Matthew 5:11) -   B. THE REASONS FOR PERSECUTION (Matthew 5:10-11). “for the sake of righteousness” (Matthew 5:10) -   “because of Me” (Matthew 5:11) -   C. THE RESPONSE TO PERSECUTION (Matthew 5:10-12). “Rejoice and be glad” (Matthew 5:12) -   The reasons for the rejoicing. a. You are blessed (Matthew 5:10-11) – b. Theirs is the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:10) -   c. Your reward in heaven is great (Matthew 5:12).     d. Fellowship with the prophets (Matthew 5:12).       e. Evidence of the presence of the Spirit (1 Pet. 4:13-14). D. THE REALITY OF PERSECUTION. In America we have the 1st amendment.    Expect persecution.         Conclusion  

Northwest Bible Church – Nov. 23, 2025 – Thanksgiving – Alan Conner 1 Thess. 5:18; Eph. 2:20 Give Thanks! Intro A. THE DUTY OF GIVING THANKS TO GOD. 1. Why give thanks to God?    Ps. 95:2; 100:4; 50:23 2. For what are we to be thankful?  1 Thess. 5:18 3. When are we to give thanks?    Eph. 5:20 B.  HOW TO DEVELOP A THANKFUL HEART. 1. Feel your own unworthiness.     a. Remember who we are by nature.  Eph. 2:3; Rom. 5:10. b. Remember that all that we have and are is by His grace.  1 Cor. 4:7; 15:10 c. A humble heart is fertile soil for a thankful heart. 2. Remember that every blessing comes from God.   Jam. 1:17. a. all temporal blessings:  b. all spiritual blessings in Christ:   3. Remember that every trial comes from God.   Lam. 3:38; Rom. 8:28.    a. Paul – 2 Cor. 12:7 b. Job – Job 1:21; 2:10 4. Remember the character of your God.   Eph. 1:11; Ps. 100:5; 103:19 C. THE BLESSINGS OF GIVING THANKS TO GOD. 1. It subdues anxiety.   Phil. 4:6-7 2. It empowers a trusting heart.  Dan. 6:23, 10. Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Nov. 16, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the Peacemakers Intro A. THE DEFINITION OF PEACE. 1. Centers on relations with others.    2. NOT “peace at any price” under guise of “love”.    B. THE NEED FOR PEACEMAKERS. 1.  The world is full of peace-breaking.    2.  Hostility between believers and unbelievers.  Matthew 10:34-36 3. Divisions within the church.  Phil. 4:2; Jam. 4:1; 1 Cor. 6-8 C. AREAS FOR PEACEMAKING.   1. Gospel of peace - evangelism.  Eph. 6:15; Rom. 5:1; Col. 1:20 2. Peace in relation to others.  Rom. 12:18; Ps. 120:7; Heb. 12:14. a. When you are the offender -  Matthew 5:23-24 b. When you are offended -  Eph. 4:32; 1 Cor. 13:5; Rom. 12:20-21 c. When others are in conflict.   Phil. 4:2 D. QUALITIES OF A GOOD PEACEMAKER. 1. Christian maturity.  Prov. 16:7; Jam. 3:17-18.  2. Not quarrelsome.  2 Tim. 2:24-25; Prov. 15:1-2; 17:14 3. Not self-willed.   Jam. 3:17; Titus 1:7 E. THE PRIZE OF BEING A PEACEMAKER. 1. “Blessed” –    2. “Called sons of God” -   Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Nov. 9, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the Pure in Heart Intro A. THE DEFINITION OF PURE IN HEART. 1. The heart describes the inner man.  Mt. 15;18-20; Prov. 4:23. 2. Purity in heart.    a. Moral purity -    Ps. 24:3-6. b. Single-minded commitment to God.   Ps. 86:11 B. THE DEPRAVITY OF THE HEART. 1. The problem: our hearts are not pure.    Gen. 6:5; 8:21; Jer. 17:9; Eph. 4:18 2. God's solution.   Deut. 30:6; Ezek. 36:26. a. Justification -  Acts 15:9 b. Sanctification – Rom. 7:22-23; Ps. 51:10; 2 Cor. 7:1 C. THE DEVELOPMENT OF A PURE HEART. 1. Confession of sin.   1 Jn. 1:9 2. Walk in the Word.  Ps. 119:9-11; 140; Jn. 17:17 3. Walk by the Spirit.  Gal. 5:16 4. Walk in prayer.   Ps. 51:10 5. Focus on Christ and His coming.  1 Jn. 3:2-3 D. DESTINY OF A PURE HEART. 1. Man on earth cannot see God.  Ex. 33:20; 1 Tim. 6:16; Jn. 1:18; 1 Jn. 4:12 2. We shall see God. a. Now.    2 Cor. 4:6; 3:18 b. Later.   1 Cor. 13:12; Ps. 17:15; 1 Jn. 3:2; Rev. 22:2; Jn. 17:24 Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Nov. 2, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the Merciful Intro A. THEOLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS. 1. Showing mercy does not earn mercy.    2. True faith produces mercy.     B. THE MEANING OF MERCY. 1. Mercy and grace.         2. Mercy is compassion toward those in need.     Matthew 9:27; 15:22; 17:15; Lk. 17:13 3. Mercy embodies a forgiving spirit.    Lk. 18:13 4. World's view of mercy. 5. The opposite of mercy is cruelty.  Prov. 12:10; 11:17 6. The objects of mercy.  Gal. 6:10 C. EXAMPLES OF MERCY. 1. POSITIVE.  Good Samaritan.   Lk. 10:30-37. 2. NEGATIVE.  Unforgiving servant.  Matthew 18:21-35. 3. PERFECT.  Our triune God.  2 Cor. 1:3; Heb. 2:17; Titus 3:5 D. IMPORTANCE OF SHOWING MERCY. 1. Reveals we are children of God 2. We are chosen to be vessels of mercy and should dispense mercy to others.  Rom. 9:23; Lk. 6:36. E. THE BLESSING OF MERCY. 1. Now. 2. Future. Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Oct. 26, 2025 – Reformation Day – Alan Conner Romans 5:1 The Doctrine of Justification Intro A. JUSTIFICATION: WHAT DOES IT MEAN? 1.  LBCF 11.1 -  Those whom God effectually calleth, he also freely justifieth, not by infusing righteous-ness into them, but by pardoning their sins, and by accounting and accepting their persons as righteous; not for anything wrought in them, or done by them, but for Christ's sake alone; .  .  . but by imputing Christ's active obedience unto the whole law, and passive obedience in his death for their whole and sole righteousness by faith, which faith they have not of themselves; it is the gift of God. 2. A legal declaration of being righteous, not to make them righteous (sanctification).  Lk. 7:29; Deut. 25:1; Prov. 17:15    B. JUSTIFICATION: HOW DOES IT OCCUR? 1. One lives a perfectly righteous life.    Jas. 2:10; Romans 3:10   2. One must be given a righteousness that is perfect.   Romans 3:24; 5:17; Phil. 3:9; 2 Cor. 5:21 3. The transaction of imputation or “credited.”  Romans 4:5  C. JUSTIFICATION: WHAT DOES IT GIVE?   1. Forgiveness of all our sins.  Romans 4:6-8; Col. 2:13 2. Imputed righteousness of Christ.    Phil. 3:9; 2 Cor. 5:21 3. The Great Exchange.   Double imputation.  D. JUSTIFICATION: WHEN DOES IT HAPPEN? 1. Accomplished at the cross.  Romans 3:24; 5:9 2. Applied at the moment of saving faith.  Romans 3:28; 5:1; Gal. 2:16 E. JUSTIFICATION: WHAT DOES IT RESULT IN? 1. Sanctification.    Jas. 2:26 2. Glorification.    Romans 8:1, 33-34, 30 Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Oct. 19, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:6 Blessed are the Spiritually Hungry  Intro A. WHAT KIND OF RIGHTEOUSNESS? 1. Not man-made righteousness.    Mt. 5:20; Jer. 2:13.   2. God's righteousness.    a. Imputed righteousness.    Phil. 3:9 b. Practical righteousness.   2 Tim. 2:22; Rom. 6:13 c. Civil righteousness.  Isa. 61:1-2 B. HUNGERING AND THIRSTING 1. Speaks to an intense longing, metaphor.    Ps. 42:1-2 2. Tests of this hunger and thirst. C. THE BLESSING OF BEING SATISFIED. 1. Divine passive. 2. To make full, to fill up to the brim.   3. For the lost – 4. For the believer -   Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Oct. 12, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the Meek Intro A. MEANING OF MEEKNESS. 1. World's false impression.   2. Grk. Lexicon – “not being overly impressed by a sense of one's self-importance; gentle, humble, considerate.”         3. Submission to God.     4. Humility toward others. a. Humble, non-aggression, gentleness.   Mt. 5:39, 41 b. Opposite of violence and retaliation.  Heb. 10:34; Jam. 5:6 B. EXAMPLES OF MEEKNESS. 1. Abraham with Lot.  Gen. 13:8-9.    2. Moses.  Num. 12:3; Ex. 4:10; Num. 11:29  3. David.   2 Sam. 16:11-12 4. Christ the greatest example.  Mt. 11:29; 12:20; 21:5.  5. Paul.  2 Cor. 10:1 C. EXHORTATIONS TO MEEKNESS. 1. From Paul.    Tit. 3:2; Gal. 5:23; Col. 3:12; Eph. 4:2; 2 Tim. 2:25; Gal. 6:1 2. From Peter.   1 Pet. 3:15 3. From James. Jam. 3:13 D. REWARD OF MEEKNESS: INHERIT THE EARTH. Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Oct. 5, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:4 Blessed are Those Who Mourn Intro    A. THE MEANING OF MOURNING. 1. What it does not mean. 2. What it does mean. B. AREAS OF MOURNING. 1. Personal sin.     2. Sin of others.     3. Painful circumstances of life.   C. MOURNING WITHOUT COMFORT. 1. Mourning without Christ.    2. Mourning that seeks worldly comfort.   D. MOURNING WITH COMFORT. 1. God's comfort now.  Isa. 61:1-2    2.  How does God give us His comfort?   a. By believing that God is LOVING, GOOD, WISE, SOVEREIGN.    b. By believing that He is always with us, never leaves us.   Ps. 23:4 c. We know that our mourning is temporary.   Ps. 30:5, 11 d. That God's word is where I need to go.  Ps. 119:50, 76 3. Future comfort.    Lk. 16:25; Rev. 21:4 Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Sept. 28, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit Intro A. THE MEANING OF POOR IN SPIRIT. 1. Not financial poverty.    2. Spiritual poverty – humility.   a) their neediness.    b) depends totally on God to provide for those needs.  Isa. 57:15; 66:2   3. The contrast would be one who is “rich in spirit.”    B. EXAMPLES OF BEING POOR IN SPIRIT.    1. Pharisee and publican in prayer (Lk. 18:9-14). 2. Prodigal son (Lk. 15:11-24).    C. THE ORIGIN OF BEING POOR IN SPIRIT. 1. Not natural to our depraved human nature.   2. Produced by the Holy Spirit.   This is a heaven grown virtue.    3. Christ centered focus.     4. A permanent virtue.    D. HELP ON BEING POOR IN SPIRIT. 1. Attitude toward self a. Remember our sinful nature.   Eph. 2:1-3; Rom. 3:10-12 b. Remember that all we have is a gift.  1 Cor. 4:7; 1 Cor. 3:6-7; Jas. 1:17 c. We can do nothing apart from Christ. Jn. 15:5 d. Humility.  1 Cor. 15:9; 1 Tim. 1:15; 2 Cor. 3:5 2. Attitude toward others.   a. Esteem others as more important than self.  Phil. 2:3 b. Servant's attitude.  Mk. 10:44-45. 3. Attitude toward Christ. a. Esteem Christ above all.  2 Cor. 5:15; 1 Pet. 3:15 b. Seek first His kingdom.  Mt. 6:33 E. THE BLESSING: THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN.   1. The blessing is present.   2. The blessing is future.   Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Sept. 21, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 5:1-3 Intro to the Sermon on the Mount Intro A. WHO IS THIS SERMON FOR? 1.  Given to His disciples  (Matt. 5:1).     2.  You can find these teachings scattered throughout the rest of the NT. 3.  Matt. 28:20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you;  B. EMPHASIS ON THE LAW.   1.  The law reveals and condemns us all as sinners.    2.  The moral law of God is still a standard of righteousness for believers.   Rom. 7; 1 Cor. 7:19; 1 Tim. 1:8; Jn. 14:15; 1 Jn. 2:3 C. PURPOSE OF THE SERMON 1.  To give to His disciples the ethical standards for living in His kingdom 2.  To show that we need a new heart. 3.  To show us our need for Christ.   4.  To show us the blessings of righteous living by God's grace.    D. OUTLINE OF THE SERMON 1. Christian character (Matt. 5:3-16). - Beatitudes - Salt and Light 2. Christian and God's law (Matt. 5:17-48). 3. Christian and God's presence (Matt. 6:1-34). 4. Christian and others (Matt. 7:1-12). 5. Christian and the narrow gate (Matt. 7:13-27). E. THE BEATITUDES 1. What is a Beatitude? 2. The order of the Beatitudes. 3. The structure of the Beatitudes. Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – Sept. 14, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 4:23-25 Summary of Christ's Ministry Intro A. CHRIST'S TEACHING MINISTRY (Matthew 4:23).     1. Throughout all Galilee.     2. Teaching in their synagogues.    3. Proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom.    4. “the gospel of the kingdom” -    a. Two phases of the kingdom: present and future. b. The kingdom was manifested in Christ's teaching ministry.  Isa. 61:1-2. B. CHRIST'S HEALING MINISTRY (Matthew 4:23-24).     1. The kingdom was manifested in Christ's healing ministry.  2. These healings were prophesied.   Isa. 35:5-6; 26:19; 61:1-2 3. The purpose of these healings.  a.  These healings proved He was the Messiah.   Mt. 11: 4-6.                    b. They confirmed His message.    c. They show that the presence and power of the kingdom had arrived.   d. We also see the compassion of Jesus for those who suffer.    4. The temporary nature of the gift of healing.    C. CHRIST'S INFLUENTIAL MINISTRY (Matthew 4:24-25).   1. “Syria” (Matthew 4:24).  2. Great crowds from Galilee, Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and beyond the Jordan (Matthew 4:25).       Conclusion 1. Christ is our great Physician.    2. Jesus came to be the Savior of the world.

Northwest Bible Church – Sept. 7, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 4:18-22 Christ Calls His First Disciples Intro 1. New method.     2. Distinction between “disciple” and “apostle”.  A. THE CALLING OF PETER AND ANDREW (Matthew 4:18-20). 1. Location (Matthew 4:18).     2. Brothers and fishermen (Matthew 4:18).     a. Jesus “saw” them.    b. “Simon who was called Peter”. c. Andrew his brother  3. Command and promise (Matthew 4:19).      a. “Follow Me” -    b. “I will make you fishers of men” -    4. Response (Matthew 4:20).     B. THE CALLING OF JAMES AND JOHN (Matthew 4:21-22).   1. Location.    2. Brothers and fishermen (Matthew 4:21).     3. Christ's call (Matthew 4:21).   4. Response (Matthew 4:22).     APPLICATIONS

Northwest Bible Church – Aug. 31, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 4:12-17 The Beginning of Jesus' Ministry Intro A. JESUS SETTLES IN CAPERNAUM (Matthew 4:12-13).   1. Why leave the southern region for Galilee?     a. Danger that went with John's arrest.  b. It was time to begin His public ministry in earnest.    c. Primarily to fulfill prophecy (Matthew 4:14-16).   2. Why leave Nazareth for Capernaum?       a. Strategic location.    b. The reaction of Nazareth.   Lk. 4:14-31 B. THE FULFILLMENT OF ISA. 9:1-2 (Matthew 4:14-16). 1. Context of Isa. 9:1-2.     2. The territories of the prophecy: Zebulun, Naphtali, the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan,  Galilee of the Gentiles.    3. Those sitting in darkness will see light.   4. The “great light/upon them a light dawned.”  C. THE PREACHING OF JESUS BEGINS (Matthew 4:17). 1. Repent  2. “the kingdom of heaven is at hand”  APPLICATION 1. Location and geography play an important part in God's works 2. Jesus is the Light.   He shines His light through us.  

Northwest Bible Church – Aug. 24, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 4:8-11 Satan's Third temptation Intro A. THE LOCATION OF THE TEMPTATION (Matthew 4:8). 1. A very high mountain.    2. Location is unknown.  B.  THE TEMPTATION (Matthew 4:8-9). 1. Supernatural vision? (Matthew 4:8). a. "in a moment of time" -  b. What we learn about Satan.   2. Satan claims to be able to give Christ what he just showed Him (9). a. Could Satan really make good on his offer?   b. Cf. Ps. 2:8; 24:1; 103:19; Dan. 4:17. 3.  The temptation -  The crown without the cross  (Matthew 4:9).    a. Jesus is promised dominion by the Father.  Dan. 7:13-14; Ps. 2:8. b. The price tag for this transaction is SIN.  C.  CHRIST'S ANSWER (Matthew 4:10).    1. Jesus now commands Satan to GO. 2.  Jesus quotes Deut. 6:13; 10:20. a. Context. b. Where Israel failed, Christ prevailed. D.  THE BATTLE WON (Matthew 4:11). 1. Satan is dismissed.    2. Angels are sent to minister to Him.     APPLICATIONS 1.  Satan employs visions in tempting us.    2.  What we see can lead us astray.   3.  Don't make the power and glory of this world the goal of your life.  4. Christ never despised the cross.   5. The importance of Scripture to the saints when tested.  

Northwest Bible Church – Aug. 17, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 4:5-7 Do Not Test the LORD Intro A. LOCATION OF THE TEMPTATION (Matthew 4:5). 1. “the pinnacle of the temple” –  2. Application.    B. THE DEVIL'S TEMPTATION (Matthew 4:6). 1. Satan again calls Jesus “the Son of God”. 2. Challenge:  “Throw Yourself down” -      3. Confirmation:  Ps. 91. a. Satan misquotes the text.    b. Satan misinterprets the text.   c.  Satan misapplies the text.       C. CHRIST'S TRIUMPH OVER THE TEMPTATION (Matthew 4:7). 1. Again Christ uses the Word to defeat Satan's temptation.    2. Context of Deut. 6:16.   Cf. Ex. 17:2-7    3. Both Israel and Jesus were tempted to test God.   D. LESSONS 1. Use the Scriptures correctly.     2. Don't put God to the test.   Conclusion 1. Learn to trust God, and not to test Him. 2. Do not presume on the Father's protection when we deliberately sin.   3. Use the Bible to resist temptations.  

Ephesians 2:1–3 (NASB95) 1And you were dead in your trespasses and sins,  2in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.  3Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.

Northwest Bible Church – July 27, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 4:1-4 Christ's 1st Temptation Intro  A. JESUS FASTING FOR 40 DAYS AND NIGHTS (Matthew 4:2).  1. Fasting for communion with God.    2. Then He became hungry.     Parallel with Israel in the wilderness, Ex. 16:1-3.     B. THE DEVIL'S TEMPTATION (Matthew 4:3). 1. Satan comes as the “tempter”.    2.  Satan does not deny that Jesus is the Son of God.   a. To cast doubt on the Father's faithful provision for Jesus' bodily needs.   b. But the end game is to get Jesus to act on His own.       3. Applications:     a. Satan will often use flattery. b. Satan is a student of our needs.    c.  Satan tries to undermine our trust in God's goodness and provision. C. JESUS' TRIUMPH (Matthew 4:4).     1. “IT IS WRITTEN” – Deut. 8:3.    a. Israel's failure.    b. God's provision.   2. Application –    a. Don't make bread our primary focus. b. Do not run outside the boundaries of God's Word to meet your needs. c. TRUST GOD for our daily bread/needs.    d. Stay in the Word.   Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – July 20, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 4:1 The Temptation of Jesus Intro  A. JESUS LED BY THE SPIRIT INTO THE WILDERNESS. (Matthew 4:1). 1. The purpose of the leading of the Spirit – “to be tempted by the devil.” 2. The importance of these temptations.    a. To show Jesus' character as the Son of God, Messianic King, Suffering Servant.    b. To show that Jesus is qualified to be our sinless Substitute. c. To show that Jesus is our sympathetic high priest.   B. CHRIST AS THE NEW ISRAEL. 1. See Mt. 2:15 where the “Son” in Hos. 11:1 refers to Israel (Ex. 4:22) but Matthew applies it as being fulfilled in Jesus. 2.  The Holy Spirit and the cloud that led Israel in the wilderness.  Isa. 63:11; Neh. 9:20; Rom. 8:14. 3.  Israel's wilderness experiences parallels Jesus'.  Deut. 8:2  4. Jesus responds to each temptation with Scripture from Deut. 6 and 8 that relates to Israel's failures in the wilderness.      C. WISDOM FOR OVERCOMING TEMPTATIONS 1. NOW YOUR ENEMY.   2. KNOW YOUR GOD.     3. KNOW YOURSELF.     4. KNOW THE WORD Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – July 13, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 3:13-17 The Consecration of Jesus Intro A.  ARRIVAL OF JESUS (Matthew 3:13).   B. BAPTISM OF JESUS (Matthew 3:14-15).   1. John resisted baptizing Jesus (Matthew 3:14).    2. Jesus insisted on John's baptism “to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15).   a. Majority view:  Jesus is  identifying with His people in preparation of His ministry to “save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).     b.  Jesus is endorsing John's ministry and shows unity with it by bringing it to fulfillment.   c.  Jesus' baptism “fulfills all righteousness” as He enters into His high priestly ministry.      C. ANOINTING OF JESUS (Matthew 3:16).    1. The Spirit of God descends as a dove  2. Symbolism of a dove.    3. Significance of the anointing of Jesus with the Holy Spirit.    D. ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE FATHER ABOUT JESUS (Matthew 3:17). 1. God speaks, “voice out of the heavens.”   2. “This is My beloved Son”.   Ps. 2:7  3.  The Son is beloved and well pleasing to the Father.   Isa. 42:1   Conclusion 1. The honor given to baptism.     2.  The importance of righteousness.

Northwest Bible Church – July 6, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 3:11-12 Baptism with the Holy Spirit Intro A.  JOHN CONTRASTS HIMSELF WITH JESUS, THE COMING ONE (Matthew 3:11). 1. John's baptism with water. 2. John's inferiority to Jesus.     a. He is mightier than I.     b. I am not fit to remove (or carry) His sandals.    B. THE BAPTISM OF JESUS WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT (Matthew 3:11).    1. It begins at Pentecost.   Acts 1:5 2.  It involves indwelling.   Jn. 7:38-39   3.  It involves the giving a spiritual gift(s) to all believers.  Acts 2:4; 1 Cor. 12:11 4. It involves the HS uniting all believers in the body of Christ.   1 Cor. 12:13   C. CHRIST'S BAPTISM WITH FIRE (Matthew 3:11). 1. Tongues of fire.  Acts 2:3  2. Fire of judgment on the unrepentant.  See Mt. 3:7, 10, 12.   3. Spirit refining fire on the repentant. D. THE COMING ONE BRINGS JUDGMENT AND SALVATION (Matthew 3:12). 1. The winnowing fork and threshing floor.     2. Barn is a picture of heaven. 3. Unquenchable fire is a picture of hell.   Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – June 29, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 3:3-10 John Confronts the Jewish Leaders Intro A. THE MEANING OF ISAIAH'S PROPHECY (Matthew 3:3).   1.  Isa. 40:3 and its context.      a. Prophecy of coming judgment and deportation.  Isa. 39:6-7. b. Comfort in the Lord's promise to come and bring them home.  Isa. 40:1f 2. Application to John the Baptist.     3. Matthew and the deity of Christ.      B. THE RESPONSE TO JOHN'S MESSAGE (Matthew 3:5-7a). 1. A large following (Matthew 3:5-6). 2. Many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to John (Matthew 3:7a).  WHY? a.  for baptism  b.  to the location  c.  hostile opposition  C. JOHN'S RESPONSE TO THE JEWISH LEADERS (Matthew 3:7b-10). 1. “You brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?” (Matthew 3:7b).    2. “Bear fruit in keeping with repentance” (Matthew 3:8).     3. Abraham cannot save you (Matthew 3:9).    4. Judgment is imminent on fruitless trees (Matthew 3:10).   APPLICATIONS 1.   2.  3. 

Northwest Bible Church – June 22, 2023 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 3:1-2 John the Baptist Intro A.  THE MAN (Matthew 3:1, 4).    1. Family.   Lk. 1:5 2. Supernatural birth.   Luke 1:7  3. Lifestyle (Matthew 3:4).    a. Clothes – camel's hair and leather belt.  b. Food - locusts and wild honey.   B. THE MINISTRY (Matthew 3:1). 1. Preacher in the wilderness (Matthew 3:1) –   2. The Baptist (Matthew 3:1) -    a. Baptism means “to dip or  plunge”. b. Baptism by immersion was not novel for the Jews.    c. John's baptism was novel: (1)  John administered baptism to others.     (2)  John's call for a JEWS to undergo baptism.   C. THE MESSAGE (Matthew 3:2). 1. REPENT.     a. “to change one's mind, attitude” or “to be sorry for something.”  b. “radical transformation of the entire person,   Matt. 3:8  c. Repentance was necessary for baptism.  Matt. 3:6  d. Repentance brings about salvation.    e.  “Repent” - Present tense imperative so on-going.   2. REASON.   “For the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”     a. Comparison with “kingdom of God.”      b. Rule/reign not a realm.    c. “at hand”.   d. Kingdom with two aspects.  PRESENT/FUTURE;   (1) Spiritual NOW.   Matthew 12:28; Rom. 14:17; Col. 1:13 (2) Physical consummation in the FUTURE.   Judgment Conclusion/Application

Northwest Bible Church – June 15, 2025 – Epistle of Ephesians – Mike Southerland Ephesians 1:13-23 “A Spirit of Wisdom and of Revelation” I. Introduction A. The Holy Spirit is the focus in this section. II. The Holy Spirit's role in Ephesians 1 Enabling us to hear the message of truth. Enabling us to believe the Gospel Sealing us in Christ What is sealing? Pledge of our Inheritance To the praise of His glory! III.  Paul's Appreciation for the saints at Ephesus IV. Paul's Prayer for the Church at Ephesus – and by extension: US TOO! Trinitarian prayer Eyes of our Hearts may be enlightened. Hope of His calling Riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints Greatness and power of the Father Raising Christ from the dead Seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places Given to Christ all rule and authority You are the Church, Christ's Body. V. Conclusion

Northwest Bible Church – June 8, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 2:16-23 The Massacre in Bethlehem Intro A. HEROD'S MASSACRE (Matthew 2:16). 1. Herod the serial killer.     2. Victims: 2 years old and under.    B. JEREMIAH IS FULFILLED (Matthew 2:17-18). 1. Jer. 31:15 and its context.   a. Weeping b. Return c. New Covenant 2. The fulfillment of another type.      C. THE RETURN OF JESUS TO NAZARETH (Matthew 2:19-23). 1. Angel's message to Joseph (Matthew 2:19-21). 2. The reign of Archelaus caused Joseph to fear (Matthew 2:22a).     3. Angel's warning caused Joseph to settle in Nazareth (Matthew 2:22b-23).     APPLICATIONS: 1. Great tragedies occur in a fallen world.   2. Payday someday for the wicked.   3. God is in control.     Ps. 2:1-4.  4. God protects His own.  

Northwest Bible Church – June 1, 2025 – Matthew – Alan Conner Matthew 2:13-15 To Egypt and Back Again Intro  A. INTO EGYPT (Matthew 2:13-14). 1. The message (Matthew 2:13).    2. The reason (Matthew 2:13b).    3. The response (Matthew 2:14).    B. OUT OF EGYPT (Matthew 2:15). 1. When Herod died, the family returned.     More details in Matthew 2:19-23. 2. The return of Jesus to Israel fulfills a type found in Hos. 11:1.   Parallels:    a. Both went into Egypt.   b. Both are called God's son.   c. Both are called out of Egypt.    C. OTHER PARALLELS BETWEEN JESUS AND ISRAEL IN MATTHEW. 1. Both come out of Egypt (Matthew 2:15). 2. Both are protected by God (ch. 2). 3. Both are baptized (ch. 3).    4. Both experience the wilderness (ch. 4).   5. Both are supernaturally led (ch. 4).   6. Both came to a mountain (ch. 5).   7. Both had 12/12 (ch. 10). 8. Both enter into covenants (Matthew 26:28). D. OTHER PARALLELS BETWEEN JESUS AND ISRAEL IN THE O.T. 1. Isa. 49:1-8  the Messiah is described as “My servant, Israel.” (Matthew 2:3).  2. Isa. 5:2  Israel is a vine bearing worthless grapes.  Cf. Jn. 15:1.   E. THE IMPORTANCE OF JESUS AS A NEW ISRAEL. 1. We get our IDENTITY from Christ.    2. The church as spiritual Israel.    a. It begins with the remnant of Israel.  Jer. 31:7 b. The remnant is the true Israel.  Rom. 9:6 c. Gentiles are grafted in  by faith.  Rom. 11:17; Lk. 12:32; Rom. 2:29; Gal. 3:7, 29; Eph. 3:6; 1 Pet. 2:9. Conclusion