Orangeburg (SC) Church of Christ Audio

Chapter 9 continues with the sounding of two more of the seven trumpets.  Like the four before them, these trumpets contain warnings meant to call men to repentance.  These two, however, target people directly.  This week we discuss the fifth trumpet, which unleashes nightmarish creatures onto the world to torment sinners. Teacher: Justin P. Sivley

Micah’s warnings to Israel and Judah still resonate today.  Though God always listens to his saints, and always answers their prayers, there are some individuals to whom God will not listen.  Micah details some attitudes and actions that make ones prayer fail to rise up before God. Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

It is mandatory that we know how greatly we are blessed by God.  Especially those of us who live in the United States must realize how much we have been blessed. And we must be thankful.  When Christ healed ten lepers, only one returned to give him thanks.  You must be that one. Speaker: Ray … Continue reading Count Your Blessings – Luke 17:11-19

Micah, like the others we have studied, was an eight century B.C. prophet who spoke to Israel and Judah at a time when there was relative prosperity, but in which the people grew further from God.  In Micah 6, God takes his people to court, pleading his case against them, and announcing their judgement because … Continue reading The Minor Prophets: Lesson 4 – Micah

As we continue in Chapter 8, we review a bit of what we discussed last week as the seventh seal is opened, and we are introduced to the seven trumpets.  Then as the trumpets sound, we see the effects that take place in the world, as God uses natural disaster and destruction to bring men … Continue reading Revelation 8: Seventh Seal and First Four Trumpets – Part 2 (12/17/25 Bible Class)

When the Pharisees and scribes refused to believe the evidence that had been given them concerning Jesus, they continued asking for signs from him.  The Lord affirmed on the occasion in Matthew 12 that the definitive sign of his deity would be that which he called “The Sign of Jonah.”  Jonah’s time in the fish … Continue reading Give Me A Sign – Matthew 12:38-42 (12/14/25 p.m. sermon)

We know that we are living in the last days, and so the urgency of the preaching of the word must be understood.  Even in the first century, it was imperative that an evangelist like Timothy be prepared, at any time, to share the good news about Jesus, and to stand firm in the truth … Continue reading If Not Now, When? – 2 Timothy 4:1-5 (12/14/25 a.m. sermon)

The book of Jonah is probably the best known among the Minor Prophets.  He is the only writing prophet whose work is more focused on what he did, rather than what he taught.  Jonah’s familiar story reminds us that it is impossible for one to hide anything from God, while also demonstrating God’s mercy and … Continue reading The Minor Prophets: Lesson 3 – Jonah (12/14/25 Bible Class)

After a week away, we are returning to our study of Revelation this week as we prepare to move past the seven seals and into the seven trumpets.  One cannot help but notice the similarities between these two groups.  They both continue to remind us of the ultimate message, that God is in control, and … Continue reading That You May Overcome: Revelation 8 – Final Seal and First Four Trumpets – Part 1 (12/10/25 Bible Class)

Hosea’s prophecy shows how God continued to love Israel even though they were guilty of spiritual adultery.  Not only had they gone after other gods which God had commanded them not to do, they had also trusted in other nations, and in themselves, rather than trusting in God. Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

Many of us have probably read the first part of 2 Timothy 3 and thought of many of the problems that exist in our world, and the way that many people in the world live.  But we must pay careful attention to all of what Paul says, and how he suggests that these are not … Continue reading The Appearance of Godliness – 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (12/7/25 a.m. sermon)

Of all the Minor Prophets, perhaps none of them reveal God’s heart to us more than Hosea.  Hosea, by illustration and by teaching, demonstrates God’s unyielding love for His people, even when they don’t return that love.  It shows the struggle between justice and mercy, and God’s unwavering faithfulness. Teacher: Justin P. Sivley

At the beginning of Amos’ prophecy, he lays out all of the sins of the nations surrounding Israel, even their brethren in Judah to the south.  But what may have been received eagerly at first quickly turns sour as the message shift to focus on Israel itself, and its sins, which are numerous. It is … Continue reading Let Them Have It! – Amos 1-2 (11/30/25 p.m. sermon)

Though the letters to Timothy and Titus are usually thought to be good reading for preacher’s, they are applicable to all who desire to be servants of Christ.  Paul’s words to Timothy here detail characteristics of anyone who would wish to serve the Lord, and to do so faithfully.  Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

The Minor Prophets are so called, not because of their content being less important, but simply compared to other prophetic books (like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel), they are much shorter in their length.  Amos was one of the earliest writing prophets, prophesying in Israel around the middle of the 8th century B.C.  His message was … Continue reading The Minor Prophets: Lesson 1 – Amos (11/30/25 Bible Class)

In the middle of the sixth and seventh seal is a brief interlude of hope, reminding God’s people that He knows each and every one who is His.  Though there are different ideas about the 144,000, we examine a simple, yet contextual understanding that shows the church protected by God and delivered to their eternal … Continue reading That You May Overcome: Revelation 7 – 144,000 Before the Throne (11/25/25 Bible Class)

When Lazarus died, his sisters weren’t expecting him to be raised.  They had expected Jesus to arrive in time to save him, but that had not happened.  Nevertheless, in spite of their disappointment, their faith in Jesus would not change.  They become an example to us of remaining faithful even in those dark moments, and … Continue reading When Disappointment Comes – John 11:20-22 (11/23/25 p.m. sermon)

Paul’s final letter to Timothy was filled with encouragement for the young preacher.  It begins with a reminder that we haven’t been given to fear, but have power, love, and self-control through the spirit which God has given to us. Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

Our final study of Biblical families takes us to a young man and his mother and grandmother.  Though Timothy came from a blended family, his mother and grandmother instilled within him a great love for God which followed him for the rest of his life. Teacher: Allen Hutchison

Apologies for the slight delay in uploading. There were issues with the upload process yesterday. During last week’s study, we discussed the four horsemen who have been riding across the earth for all of human history. As the fifth and sixth seals are opened, we first see martyrs crying out for justice, and then, though … Continue reading That You May Overcome: Revelation 6 – The First Six Seals – Part 2 (11/19/25 Bible Class)

Disciples of Jesus have been called to walk in the light of the Son of God.  Paul’s words throughout the second half of Ephesians shows us several ways in which we should engage in that walk, beginning with the general statement at the beginning of chapter 4, that we should “walk worthy of our calling.” … Continue reading Walk Worthy of Your Calling – 1 John 1:5-7; Ephesians 4:1-16 (11/16/25 p.m. sermon)

Judas Iscariot demonstrates the fallout of someone who had a love of money.  His betrayal of the Lord for thirty pieces shows us the great lengths that the desire to enrich oneself can take a person.  It also invites us to reflect, and ask ourselves what temptations we may struggle with. Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

This family of siblings were beloved by Jesus.  They only appear a couple of times in Scripture, but they have much to teach us.  They can teach us about different personalities and about dealing with disappointment, and maintaining faith throughout.  Teacher: Matt Burleson

Apologies for the slight delay in posting. It simply slipped my mind yesterday… As the Lamb begins to open the scrolls, the reality of evil in the world and its effect on God’s people is revealed.  The first four seals, commonly referred to as the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, represent real evils that were … Continue reading That You May Overcome: Revelation 6 – The First Six Seals – Part 1 (11/12/25 Bible Class)

We live in a society that loves to “throw stones,” to cast judgement on and “cancel” anyone who even appears to step out of line.  How often do we, in the church, participate in such things without realizing it?  When we use the Bible as a window to judge others, and not a mirror to … Continue reading Before You Cast the First Stone – John 8:2-11 (11/9/25 p.m. sermon)

1 Timothy 5 is about relationships within the church.  Timothy is instructed on how to relate to brothers and sisters of all ages.  He is instructed in how the church should care for widows, and in how the church should esteem elders.  In the course of that discussion he makes a statement at the end … Continue reading Nothing Stays Hidden Forever – 1 Timothy 5:24-25 (11/9/25 a.m. sermon)

Mary and Joseph weren’t even married yet when she was found to be with child through the power of the Holy Spirit.  In what could have been a very difficult situation, these two people chose to trust God and were ready to serve Him in whatever way was needed.  The birth of Jesus is a … Continue reading Biblical Families: Lesson 11 – Joseph and Mary – Matthew 1, Luke 1-2 (11/9/25 Bible Class)

Chapter 5 shifts the focus of the discussion to the scroll sealed with seven seals and the Lamb who is worthy to open it.  Like the One who sits on the throne, he is worthy of all praise and worship. Teacher: Justin P. Sivley

With the month of November having arrived, it is a time when many begin to think about being thankful.  However, because of the blessings that Christians experience in Christ, every season, and every day, is an opportunity for thanksgiving. Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

Many in our society have become more health conscious in recent years, eating right and spending time in exercise.  Though there is certain wisdom in these things, it should be remembered that ultimately, they are limited in their value, as even the healthiest people don’t live forever.  Of much greater value is godliness, reverence for … Continue reading Things That Are Profitable – 1 Timothy 4:8 (11/2/25 a.m. sermon)

The parents of John the Immerser, only identified in Luke 1, may often be overshadowed by their much more well known son.  Like the other families in this study, however, there is much we can learn from them about our walk with the Lord.  Zechariah (Zecharias) and Elizabeth especially teach us about continued faithfulness and … Continue reading Biblical Families: Lesson 10 – Zechariah and Elizabeth – Luke 1 (11/2/25 Bible Class)

The letters to the seven churches concluded, John is taken, in the Spirit, directly into the throne room of God, and there sees things that words really cannot describe (though John does his best).  Though we may look and try to identify the various symbols surrounding the throne of God, the most important points are: … Continue reading That You May Overcome: Revelation 4-5 – In the Throne Room of God – Part 1 (10/29/25 Bible Class)

God wants us to be confidence in our salvation.  He wants us to have the blessed assurance of an eternal home with Him.  We can find such assurance in the Bible, and one place where it can be found is in Romans 8.  This chapter, beloved by so many, speaks of our Acquittal in Christ, … Continue reading Blessed Assurance – Romans 8 (10/26/25 p.m. sermon)

1 Timothy 3 is often thought of in terms of what it says about the qualifications required for elders and deacons in the church.  It does certainly speak to that, but it was also in the immediate context that Paul speaks of one of the main themes of his letter, that one may know how … Continue reading In The Household of God – 1 Timothy 3:14-15 (10/26/25 a.m. sermon)

The family of the prophet Hosea is certainly one of the most unconventional families in the Bible. His marrying of an unfaithful woman was meant to serve as a metaphor of God’s relationship with Israel, and a call for their repentance of their spiritual infidelity. Teacher: Allen Hutchison

The last three churches which Jesus addresses, like the other four, remind us that the challenges that were being faced by the church then are still challenges that face the church today. Teacher: Justin P. Sivley

Paul urged Christians to pray for all people in 1 Timothy 2, but he especially urged them to pray for leaders.  Many are happy to pray for leaders that they like, but the command includes even those that we don’t necessarily like.  The reasons that we pray have nothing to do with agreeing or disagreeing … Continue reading Good Reasons to Pray – 1 Timothy 2:1-4

The first letter from Paul to Timothy was written to show how Christians ought to conduct themselves (3:15). That includes how we conduct ourselves in prayer, not just praying for our own needs, but for others, and especially for those who are in positions of leadership. Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

Not every family has positive lessons for us to learn.  Some families come from a place of sin, and rather than showing us what to do, they show us what not to do.  Even still, within the story of David and Bathsheba are reminders of God’s continued love and grace. Teacher: Matt Burleson

This week we continue our discussion of the seven churches of Asia by finishing our discussion of Pegamum, and spending some time with the church in Thyatira as well. Teacher: Justin P. Sivley

Both Jesus and Paul taught us not to worry (Mt. 6, Phil. 4).  These are more general statements, and are applicable in every situation.  But in this lesson we want to look at five specific things about which Christians should not worry. Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

As we read Scripture, we should be reading it in a way that reflects back on us, and teaches us ways that we need to change, much more than we use it to try to tell others how they should live. Paul’s letters to Timothy, written to encourage proper conduct in the church, demand that … Continue reading The Aim of Our Charge – 1 Timothy 1:5 (10/12/25 a.m. sermon)

The first part of this week’s class will finish up some material from the first chapter of Revelation and the appearance of Jesus in that opening vision.  Chapters 2-3 move into the specific letters written to each of the seven churches.  After spending a few minutes breaking down what we will see in each letter, … Continue reading That You May Know: Revelation 2-3 – To the Seven Churches – Part 1 (9/24/25 Bible Class)

Paul was a preacher.  And Paul was a preacher who prayed for the church. In Colossians 1, Paul writes of the things he prayed for regarding the church.  Any preacher, and any Christian, should pray these same things for the church today. Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

Our God is the God of all comfort.  He comforts His people in their afflictions.  The purpose of this study is to examine a few ways in which God comforts his people,, namely through one another, through His word, and through prayer. Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

In many ways, the people we read about in Scripture are just like us.  Though specifics may be different, they ultimately deal with many of the same challenges that we do.  This includes difficult family dynamics, as well as the disappointment that can come from such things. Teacher: Matt Burleson

Last week we prepared for the opening vision of the book of Revelation; this week we dive into it full force, looking at the various elements of the vision of the Savior. Though some things are difficult to understand, we get an overall picture of the authoritative Son of God, who loves his people and … Continue reading That You May Overcome: Revelation Chapter 1 – A Vision of the Savior – Part 2 (9/17/25 Bible Class)

In the words of John Coffey (from the 1999 film, The Green Mile) “I’m tired of people bein’ ugly to each other.” In the wake of tragedy in our country in which a man was gunned down because of his political beliefs, and children were once again harmed in a school shooting, we need to be … Continue reading I’m Tired – Matthew 5:43-48; Luke 6:27-36 (9/14/25 p.m. sermon)

Unfortunately in the church there are on occasion times when a brother or sister behaves in a way that is out of step with the commands of the Savior.  When such a one refuses to confess their error and repent, the church has to move in and take steps to keep the church pure and … Continue reading Dealing with the Unruly – 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15 (9/14/25 a.m. sermon)

As we continue our study of Biblical Families, our focus turns to the “father of the faithful,” through whom “all the families of the earth would be blessed.” Though Abraham and Sarah’s stories remind us of human weakness on occasion, they are ultimately stories of promises and faith. Teacher: Matt Burleson

Revelation opens with an amazing vision of the Savior. This vision prepares us for what is to come.  Though we don’t get into the details of that vision in this lesson, we are happy to begin reading this wonderful book and begin to see what God is saying to us. Teacher: Justin P. Sivley