Porchlight Baptist Church

In this bold message from Romans 4:1–12, Pastor Byron Chesney dismantles the idea that religion, works, or heritage can save anyone. Abraham was justified before the Law, before circumcision—by faith alone. Paul crushes Jewish pride and modern self-righteousness alike by declaring that salvation has always been about believing God, not earning favor. Faith—not rule-keeping—is what makes someone right with God. Abraham isn't just the father of the Jews; he's the father of everyone who believes.

In Prove Thy Servant, Pastor Byron Chesney continues preaching in Daniel 1 by emphasizing the power of obedience, purpose, and unwavering faith in God. Drawing from Daniel 1:9–21, he highlights Daniel's bold request to be tested for ten days on vegetables and water instead of the king's meat, trusting God for the outcome. The message challenges believers to live with conviction and to welcome testing that proves their faith. Through historical and modern examples like Henry Wilson and Tim Tebow, Pastor Chesney shows how God grants favor to those who stand firm for Him, even in a hostile culture. The sermon ends with a call for today's Christians to stop making excuses and boldly declare, "Prove Thy Servant, Lord!"—trusting that God honors faithfulness with blessing and influence.

This is an excerpt from the sermon: "Prove Thy Servant"

In this sermon from Romans 3:21–31, Pastor Byron Chesney explains that true righteousness is not earned by keeping the Law or doing good works, but is a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ. All have sinned and fall short of God's glory, and no one—Jew or Gentile—can be justified by their own merit. Instead, God offers justification freely by His grace through the redemptive work of Christ, who is the propitiation for our sins. Pastor Chesney emphasizes that this righteousness comes not from our faithfulness, but from Christ's faith—He is the author, finisher, and captain of our salvation. Boasting is excluded because salvation is entirely dependent on Christ, not man. Though some accuse Paul of dismissing the Law, he makes it clear that faith doesn't destroy the Law but fulfills it, just as Jesus did. The sermon calls believers to trust wholly in Christ's finished work rather than in religious effort.

In this compelling message from Daniel 1:1-8, Pastor Byron explores what it means to "purpose in your heart" to live for God in a hostile world. When young Daniel and his friends were taken captive to Babylon and faced systematic brainwashing to turn them away from their faith, Daniel made a heart decision that he would not defile himself with the king's food and wine. Just as the enemy targeted these Hebrew teenagers to corrupt their minds and allegiance, today's world targets our children and families through education, media, and culture to draw them away from Christian values. Pastor Byron challenges believers to stop allowing small compromises to "slip in" and instead make a conscious, purposeful decision to live for Christ. We must purpose in our hearts to resist temptation, guard our tongues, and remember that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, bought with a price to glorify God.

In this sermon on Romans 3:9–20, titled "There's None Righteous," Pastor Byron explains that all people—Jews and Gentiles alike—are under sin, and none are righteous on their own. Paul lays out the total depravity of man, showing that no one naturally seeks after God and all stand guilty before Him. Pastor Byron clarifies that while no one can come to God unless drawn by Him, unlike the Calvinist view of irresistible grace, he believes man still has the free will to accept or reject Christ. He also emphasizes that the Law was never given to save but to expose our sin and lead us to Christ. Justification comes only through faith in Jesus—not by works or religious status.

The sermon explores the theological complexities of sin, asserting that while all sin separates humanity from God and leads to judgment, not all sin is viewed as equal in God's eyes. Drawing from Matthew 11, the message emphasizes that the degree of knowledge and the subsequent rejection of truth significantly impacts the severity of judgment, with those who witnessed powerful demonstrations of Christ's ministry and then refused to repent facing a more severe consequence than those who never had such an opportunity. Ultimately, the sermon underscores the availability of God's free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, urging listeners to accept it and avoid the inevitable consequences of rejecting His grace.

The sermon clip emphasizes the gravity of sin and its consequence—eternal separation from God—while simultaneously highlighting the profound hope offered through divine grace. Drawing from scriptural passages concerning the wages of sin and the gift of eternal life, it underscores the freely given salvation available through faith in Jesus Christ. The message conveys a sense of urgency and invitation, challenging listeners to accept God's generous offer and warning of the irreversible consequences of rejecting it. Ultimately, the sermon presents a clear and compelling call to embrace the gift of salvation, rather than stubbornly pursuing a self-determined path.

In this episode, Brother Byron shares his thoughts on the powerful book Power Through Prayer by E.M. Bounds, a convicting classic on the necessity of prayer in the life and ministry of every believer. After a few words on the sweltering Tennessee heat, Byron dives into how this book—recommended by Pastor Jonathan Tharpe—deeply challenged his own prayer life and stirred his soul. He also offers a brief biography of E.M. Bounds, from Civil War chaplain to revival leader in Franklin, TN, and highlights some of the most soul-stirring quotes from the book. Whether you're a pastor or just someone hungry for a deeper walk with God, this episode will push you to reconsider the role prayer truly plays in your spiritual life.

This is an excerpt from the sermon, "Choking on the Thorns," preached by Pastor Byron Chesney at Northside Baptist Church on Sunday, June 22, 2025. Listen to the full sermon here: https://www.sermonaudio.com/sermons/62225175014721

The sermon explores the parable of the sower, examining the varied responses to the word of God, from those whose hearts are hardened by the world to those who bear abundant fruit. It emphasizes that true faith is demonstrated through consistent action and a life pleasing to God, contrasting the fleeting excitement of superficial belief with the enduring impact of a heart deeply rooted in His word. The message encourages self-reflection and a commitment to cultivating fertile ground within oneself, recognizing that God can transform even the most challenging circumstances to produce a harvest of righteousness and devotion.

Pastor Byron preaches a message titled, "Let God Be True, But Every Man a Liar" (Romans 3:1–8) which confronts the self-righteousness of religious people—especially the Jews in Paul's day—who trusted in external rituals like circumcision rather than true faith and obedience. Drawing from Romans 3:1–8, he emphasizes that God's truth remains firm even when men are unfaithful. Paul shuts down arguments that sin somehow glorifies God or that judgment is unfair, answering each with a clear "God forbid." Pastor Byron brings these truths home by challenging modern Christianity's tendency to excuse sin, soften conviction, and redefine wickedness to avoid offense. God's standard has not changed: sin must be judged, and only inward transformation through Christ can make one truly righteous. Let God be true—no matter what man says.

In this episode, Brother Byron tackles the growing controversy surrounding Kenny Baldwin and the misuse of the phrase "Touch not the LORD's anointed" in defense of preachers facing criticism. Pastor Byron reflects on the online uproar sparked by a post from Pastor Stacey Shiflett and the divided responses that followed. Rather than focusing on personalities, he digs into the biblical meaning of anointing, showing from 1 Samuel how even Saul—though anointed—was later rejected by God for disobedience. The episode challenges the idea that charisma equals divine calling, warning against emotional loyalty that ignores doctrinal truth. Byron reminds listeners that all believers are anointed by the Spirit and that preachers are accountable not for how they preach, but for what they preach.

In this Father's Day sermon, Pastor Byron Chesney reflects on Proverbs 17:6 to explore the beauty and responsibility of fatherhood through both earthly and heavenly lenses. He emphasizes that grandchildren are a crown to older men, symbolizing legacy, while children view their fathers as their glory—a reflection of honor and admiration. Drawing from his personal upbringing in a loving Christian home, Pastor Byron contrasts the lasting influence of a godly father with the painful reality faced by those who grew up without that example. He parallels four truths about earthly fathers with our relationship to our Heavenly Father: we are created in His image, shaped by His influence, corrected by His loving discipline, and designed to bring Him glory. With personal stories, biblical wisdom, and heartfelt conviction, this sermon reminds believers that honoring God the Father begins with living lives that reflect His character and grace.

In this heartfelt episode, Brother Byron reflects on the recent passing of his cousin Natalie and the honor of preaching her funeral. He shares personal stories, memories, and the comforting truth of Scripture about death, eternity, and the believer's hope in Christ. You'll hear about the impromptu but Spirit-led singing group formed for the memorial, thoughts on grief and ministry during loss, and the assurance found in 1 Corinthians 15:55. Brother Byron also gives a Father's Day reflection—remembering his own dad—and previews upcoming episodes on E.M. Bounds on Prayer and The Reformation Study Bible. Note: The songs that were mentioned are not included due to copyright laws.

Funeral message for Natalie DeMarcus Kittrell. Held at Bridges Funeral Home in Knoxville, TN on June 13, 2025.

In this sermon, Pastor Byron Chesney confronts the hypocrisy of religious pride, using Paul's rebuke of the Jews in Romans 2:17–29 as the foundation. Paul exposes how the Jews relied on their heritage, knowledge of the Law, and outward religious symbols—like circumcision—while living in contradiction to what they taught. Pastor Byron parallels this with modern Christian behavior, warning against a "Do as I say, not as I do" mindset that dishonors God and blasphemes His name before unbelievers. He challenges believers to examine their hearts, not just their appearances, stressing that true righteousness is inward and spiritual, not outward and ceremonial. The message calls for humble, consistent faith that matches both word and deed—heart circumcision over hollow ceremony.

In this bold and urgent message from Revelation 2:8–11, Pastor Byron Chesney preaches on The Synagogue of Satan—the Lord's message to the faithful, suffering church at Smyrna. Though poor by the world's standards, this church was rich in faith and under intense persecution from both the Roman Empire and false religious pretenders. Pastor Byron draws strong parallels to today's cultural and spiritual climate—where many churches wear the name of Christ but deny His truth—and calls on believers to stay faithful, even unto death. With historical insight, scriptural clarity, and a warning to compromised churches, this sermon challenges Christians to take a stand in a world that's drifting fast into spiritual darkness.

In this episode, Brother Byron digs deeper into a point briefly made during his recent sermon from Romans 2:12–16: the Apostle Paul had no shortage of critics—and neither will you if you stand for truth. From legalists in the early church to pagan philosophers, from hostile Jewish leaders to rival Christian teachers, Paul faced relentless opposition. Brother Byron walks through four groups that criticized Paul in his lifetime, four historical figures—including Nietzsche, Tolstoy, Shaw, and Jefferson—who rejected his teachings, and four modern movements that still push back against his message. If you've ever been targeted for preaching the Gospel, take heart—you're in good company.

In Part 20 of our Rooting Through Romans sermon series, Pastor Byron Chesney preaches from Romans 2:12–16 on "The Law Written on Their Hearts." Paul explains that both Jews and Gentiles are accountable to God—whether through the written Law or the conscience God placed within. It's not hearing the Word that justifies, but doing it. On Judgment Day, Christ will expose every secret. Even Thomas Jefferson rejected Paul's message, calling him a corrupter—but Scripture stands, and so does the gospel Paul preached.

In his convicting message "Tongues of Hell" from James 3:1–12, Pastor Byron Chesney exposes the dangerous inconsistency of a tongue that blesses God yet curses others—a clear sign of a deeper heart issue. From careless remarks to slanderous gossip, unchecked speech can wreck lives, divide churches, and ignite devastating consequences. Through Scripture and real-life examples, Pastor Chesney challenges believers to understand that true spiritual maturity demands control over the tongue—because our words reveal the true condition of our hearts.

In this episode, Brother Byron reflects on an eventful 11 days, including a rare movie date with his wife, a rainy staycation, and an unexpected encounter at church. Despite feeling physically drained and hoping for a quiet Sunday, God had other plans—bringing a homeless man named Jackie through the church doors. Byron shares how that divine interruption became a reminder of his calling, the power of compassion, and the importance of being ready to serve—even on your worst days. He closes with encouragement from Hebrews 13 and a reminder about this week's continued study in Romans.

In this sermon from Romans 2:7-11, Pastor Byron Chesney emphasizes God's absolute impartiality in judgment. Paul contrasts two groups: those who persist in obedience, seeking eternal things—and those who reject truth and pursue unrighteousness. Eternal life is promised to the faithful, not because of works, but as the fruit of true salvation. Conversely, judgment and wrath await those who do evil—Jew or Gentile alike. Paul dismantles any reliance on religious heritage, moral status, or social standing, showing that God doesn't play favorites. Each person stands individually accountable before a holy God. The message is clear: salvation is not earned or inherited—it comes only through personal faith in Jesus Christ.

In this sermon from Genesis 19:1–20, Pastor Byron outlines 8 Signs of a Compromising Christian by examining the life and choices of Lot. Though Lot was a believer, his testimony was ruined by years of compromise—living in sin, tolerating wickedness, and resisting God's will. His life serves as a warning to modern Christians who are ashamed of godliness, hide their faith, form unscriptural relationships, rationalize disobedience, damage their witness, cling to the world, resist God's authority, and distrust His plan. Despite God's mercy, Lot's compromise led to devastating consequences for his family and legacy. The sermon closes with a challenge for believers to wake up, cast off darkness, and fully follow Christ before it's too late.

In this sermon from Romans 2:4–6, Pastor Byron confronts the danger of religious self-righteousness and the deception of unrepentant hearts. While the Jews believed their heritage and outward rituals placed them in good standing with God, Paul exposes their hypocrisy—condemning others while committing the same sins themselves. God's goodness, forbearance, and patience are not signs of approval but invitations to repent. When people reject that kindness, they "treasure up" wrath, storing judgment like rising floodwaters until the day of God's righteous judgment. Paul reminds us that God will render to every man according to his deeds—no one escapes accountability, and religious activity cannot replace a truly repentant heart.

This message explores the final judgment at the Great White Throne. Pastor Byron explains the difference between the judgment of believers and the judgment of the lost, emphasizing that those not found in the Book of Life will face eternal separation from God in the lake of fire. This sermon urges every listener to examine their standing before God, highlighting the urgency of salvation through Jesus Christ and the eternal consequences of rejecting Him.

In this episode, Brother Byron returns after a short break to reflect on recent severe weather that struck East Tennessee and Southeast Kentucky, where tragic tornadoes claimed lives and destroyed communities. He calls listeners to pray for those affected, then turns to the main topic: "Did God Really Call You for That?" Drawing from years of pastoral experience and biblical examples, Brother Byron challenges listeners to examine whether their calling is truly from God—or just their own desire or ability. He explores how obedience, Scripture, and godly discernment are essential in knowing God's will, and reminds us that God often uses the unlikely and uncomfortable for His greatest purposes.

In this message from Romans 2:1-4, Pastor Byron examines the righteous judgment of God—not only upon the openly wicked, as in Chapter 1, but now toward the self-righteous, particularly the religious Jew who believed heritage and lawkeeping granted immunity from wrath. Paul exposes the hypocrisy of judging others while committing the same sins, reminding us that God's judgment is always according to truth. This sermon confronts our tendency to excuse our own sin while condemning others and underscores the sobering truth: no one escapes God's judgment without the righteousness of Christ.

In this heartfelt Mother's Day message, Pastor Byron reflects on the sincere faith of Timothy's mother, Eunice, and challenges parents to raise children who know Christ above all else. Sports and success may impress the world—but only faith in Jesus saves. Leave a legacy of unfeigned faith.

Pastor Byron's message is from Numbers 11:1-3 and titled, "Does Prayer Really Matter?" Using Numbers 11, it shows that God's judgment was stopped when Moses prayed—proving that prayer changes outcomes. Prayer isn't about getting our way but aligning with God's will. Even when the answer is "no," as with Paul's thorn or unanswered prayers for healing, prayer still matters. It draws us closer to God, sustains us in trials, and gives peace that passes understanding. We pray because God hears, responds, and commands us to—and because it's often all we have.

After a short break, Brother Byron returns with reflections on recent sermons and the weight of God's Word. He shares how Easter Sunday brought visitors and conviction through a message from Matthew 7, challenging listeners to consider whether they're merely professors of faith or true possessors. He also recaps a difficult but necessary sermon from Romans 1:26–32 on "Vile Affections," addressing the deep consequences of rejecting God's truth. The episode closes with a heartfelt prayer request for an old friend and fellow pastor, whose faith and strength in suffering offer a powerful reminder of God's sustaining grace.

In this sermon, Pastor Byron addresses the sobering reality of God "giving up" individuals to their own vile affections and reprobate minds due to persistent rejection of His truth. The message explains how sexual perversion, particularly homosexuality, is described in Scripture as unnatural, shameful, and a clear sign of spiritual rebellion. Pastor Chesney emphasizes that these sins are not new but have historically marked the decline of nations, including ancient Rome. He warns against the modern push to normalize and celebrate what God calls sin, stressing that while Christians must love individuals, they must never affirm or tolerate sin. The sermon concludes with a call to remain faithful, speak the truth in love, and trust in God's ability to save and transform even the vilest sinner, just as He did for some in the early church.

In this message, Pastor Byron challenges believers to stand firm in the true faith delivered once to the saints, as warned in Jude 1:1–5. False teachers have crept into churches, twisting grace and denying Christ, but God's people are called to earnestly contend for biblical truth. Pastor Chesney explains why Northside Baptist Church stands on the historic fundamentals of the faith and the Baptist distinctives that align with Christ's original teaching. In a world full of pretenders, we must be contenders—for the sake of our families, our churches, and our testimony for Christ.

In Part 15 of our Rooting Through Romans sermon series, Pastor Byron Chesney delivers a sobering message from Romans 1:24-25 titled "God Gave Them Up." This sermon examines the terrifying point where God, in righteous judgment, gives sinners over to their own desires after repeated rejection of truth. Pastor Chesney walks through the biblical pattern of God giving people up—from the days of Israel to the days of Noah—and shows how this same principle applies today. He warns of the devastating consequences of unchecked sin, particularly sexual immorality, and how idolizing creation over the Creator leads to moral collapse. This message confronts the reality of divine judgment and the urgent need for repentance before it's too late.

In Are You a Professer or a Possessor?, Pastor Byron Chesney delivers a powerful and sobering Easter message from Matthew 7:21–23, warning that not everyone who claims to know Christ will enter Heaven. Using Scripture to contrast outward religious appearance with true inward conversion, he exposes the danger of trusting in works, routines, or words without genuine faith and transformation. From Judas to the Rich Young Ruler, Pastor Byron challenges listeners to examine whether they're simply professing Christ—or truly possessing Him through a life of obedience, surrender, and following Jesus. Eternity is at stake. Don't settle for lip service.

A sermon clip from the message, Are You a Professor or a Possessor?

In this catch-up episode, Brother Byron shares updates from the past two busy weeks, covering work, ministry, and life. He discusses his role in a major help desk migration at work, including building a custom Zendesk support page with the help of ChatGPT. He also gives an update on church life, recent sermon series, and a cost-saving website revamp for Northside Baptist. The episode includes reflections on the recent passing of two dear friends, a powerful testimony of missionary Josh Sullivan's rescue from a life-threatening abduction in South Africa, and a personal reconsideration of the Ruckman Reference Bible. Brother Byron closes with thoughts on Resurrection Sunday and an open invitation to join Northside Baptist Church for Easter.

Pastor Byron's message, "Their Foolish Heart Was Darkened," is drawn from Romans 1:21–23 (KJV). It examines the downward spiral of those who reject God and refuse to glorify Him. The sermon highlights striking parallels between this biblical warning and the moral decline seen in today's society—revealing the timeless truth about human nature and unbelief.

In this powerful conclusion to our study of Ruth, Pastor Byron walks through Ruth 4 and Boaz's legal redemption at the city gate. Boaz, acting with integrity and wisdom, steps in as the true Kinsman Redeemer—fulfilling the law where the nearer relative could not. This message highlights the deeper symbolism in the story: Naomi as a picture of Israel, Ruth as a symbol of the Gentile Church, Boaz as a type of Christ, and the law's inability to redeem. It all points to God's providence in grafting Ruth—a Gentile—into the royal line of David and ultimately to Jesus Christ. A story of redemption, legacy, and sovereign grace.

In Part 13 of our Rooting through Romans series, Pastor Byron continues exploring God's revelation and righteous judgment from Romans 1:19-20. Building on the foundation of verse 18, this message unpacks how God's existence, power, and divine nature are clearly seen through creation and conscience—leaving mankind without excuse. Whether in a bustling city or a remote jungle, every person has been given a general revelation of God, enough to hold them accountable. Yet this knowledge alone cannot save—it only condemns if rejected. Pastor Byron explains the difference between knowing about God and knowing Him personally through Jesus Christ. With strong biblical support and powerful illustrations, this sermon emphasizes the urgency of missions, the universal condition of sin, and the exclusivity of salvation through Christ. Don't miss this compelling reminder of why we must take the Gospel to all the world.

In Part 3 of our Ruth series, Pastor Byron unpacks a pivotal moment in the story—Ruth's bold proposal to Boaz! As Naomi seeks "rest" for Ruth through the custom of the Kinsman Redeemer, we see beautiful themes of faith, obedience, and divine provision unfold on the threshing floor. With a mix of suspense, humility, and God's providence, this message reminds us that true rest is found in God's plan and ultimately fulfilled in Christ. Don't miss this Hallmark-worthy chapter of redemption and hope!

Bro. Byron is back for a quick Friday update after a busy week! In this episode, he shares highlights from his recent sermon on Romans 1:18 and reflects on the holiness of God. He also gives his first impressions of the Ruckman Reference Bible which just arrived in the mail. With its detailed notes, bold commentary, and strong King James advocacy, this Bible is bound to stir up conversation. Byron walks through its features, gives a fair warning about Dr. Ruckman's blunt style, and invites listeners to church this Sunday.

This sermon examines what the Bible says about God's displeasure with unrighteousness, offering a strong warning against sugarcoating the Gospel. It also reflects on Jonathan Edwards' famous sermon, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," and contrasts it with the false Asbury "Revival" of 2023.

This message explores the interaction between Ruth, the Moabitess, and Boaz, the Israelite. The sermon emphasizes Boaz as a "type" of Christ, highlighting the parallels between Boaz's relationship with Ruth and Christ's relationship with those who belong to Him.

In this episode, Bro. Byron shares a quick update on the past week's events before continuing the discussion on Bible commentaries. He explores the works of John Phillips, Warren Wiersbe, David Sorensen, Peter Ryan, Wycliffe, and Peter S. Ruckman. Additionally, he delves into a discussion about Ruckman and his impact. Tune in for insightful perspectives on these influential commentaries!

In this powerful passage, Paul highlights two essential themes rooted in the Gospel of Christ: "The righteousness of God" and "The faith of the believer." Both are absolutely necessary in the life of a Christian. This message explores the saving faith of Abraham and other Old Testament saints as recognized in Hebrews 11. Additionally, it addresses the common but incorrect notion that Old Testament saints "looked toward the cross" while believers today "look back at the cross," explaining why this perspective is not biblically accurate.

This sermon explores the story of Naomi and Ruth, highlighting the consequences of being out of God's will. It also draws a compelling comparison to backslidden Christians today, emphasizing the dangers of spiritual drift and the hope of restoration.

In this episode, Brother Byron poses the question: "Where are the Non-Reformed commentaries?" He takes a look at influential past commentators like Calvin, Henry, Pink, Poole, and Gill, as well as more recent voices such as Lloyd-Jones, Boice, MacArthur, and Sproul. With so many resources rooted in Reformed theology, why aren't more Independent Baptists writing Bible commentaries today? Tune in for this thought-provoking discussion.

This sermon examines Romans 1:16, where the Apostle Paul boldly proclaims, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." We will take a deep dive into the meaning of this powerful declaration and explore its relevance in our lives today.

This sermon explores the many blessings and benefits Christians receive as a result of Christ's sacrifice and example.

In this episode, Brother Byron reflects on the widespread neglect of Bible reading and how our short attention spans have impacted not only personal study but also sermon preparation and delivery. He discusses the growing trend of using provocative sermon titles to capture attention and whether this approach is beneficial or simply an appeal to the flesh. From Jack Hyles' unique sermon titles to modern pastors focusing on UFOs and the supernatural, is this shift drawing people closer to God—or just to the sensational? Tune in and share your thoughts!