Trinity Reformed Baptist Church

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• Prioritize corporate worship giving as first-fruits—cheerful, intentional, aligned with gospel mission. • Audit formative "money classroom" influences; confess anxiety/presumption; re-anchor trust in God's sovereignty. • Use budgets and diligence as second causes under God's first cause—to serve faithfulness, not self-sufficiency. • Evaluate spending/giving by eternal criteria: does this cultivate worship, love of neighbor, and kingdom witness? • Practice learned contentment: resist the "more" narrative by setting sufficiency thresholds and generosity goals. • Identify one tangible action this week to align a budget/checking account with heavenly treasure (restore a generosity line item, support a ministry, host a neighbor).

• Worship is governed by God's commands, not human sincerity or innovation. The story of Nadab and Abihu serves as a stark warning against introducing unauthorized elements into worship. • The apostles' teaching is preeminent. It has priority over all other elements of worship because worship is fundamentally God's self-revelation to which humanity responds. Its preeminence also dictates the proportion of time dedicated to it and its role as the interpretive key to the Old Testament. • The apostles' teaching is a finished, foundational deposit of truth. As the "foundation" of the church (Ephesians 2:20), the apostolic office was an unrepeatable, revelatory role. With the death of the apostles, the canon of Scripture closed. Therefore, the church does not receive new revelation and cannot invent new elements of worship. This is directly tied to the principle of Sola Scriptura. • The public ministry of the Word has two commanded modes: public reading and public preaching. Citing 1 Timothy 4:13 and 2 Timothy 4:2, the speaker asserts that these are not suggestions but divinely mandated elements. The command is for a specific mode of delivery (reading and heralding), not just for the transmission of content. • The regulative principle liberates the conscience. By adhering only to what God has commanded, believers are freed from the "tyranny of human wisdom" and the burden of man-made rules and traditions in worship.

General Summary of Main Points • Christ's unique person as the God-Man grounds a priesthood and glory no creature can attain; He ministers in the true, heavenly tabernacle and reigns as priest-king at the Father's right hand. • Earthly priests and sacrifices are copies and shadows; Jesus offers Himself and, through His ascension, conducts the necessary eternal intercession in heaven. • The ascension is indispensable: our problem is fundamentally spiritual; only a heavenly, eternal intercessor secures believers perpetually so that none are lost. • The old covenant's inadequacy lies in human failure; Christ fulfills every type and shadow, thereby obtaining a more excellent ministry as Mediator of the better, new covenant enacted on better promises. • Jesus, unlike Israel, resists temptation, refuses wilderness grumbling, obeys perfectly, defeats Satan, and conquers death—functioning as true Israel and the last Adam. • The new covenant brings a people who truly know the Lord; its membership is constituted by genuine faith rather than merely physical descent or external inclusion. • The church era, empowered by the Spirit, advances the gospel globally; Christ's ascension aligns with God's plan for worldwide mission and ongoing heavenly mediation.

The sermon focuses on the Great Commission in Matthew 28:16-20, defining what a disciple is and explaining how disciples are made, with a strong emphasis on the role of the local church. The main points are: • Jesus Possesses All Authority: The command to make disciples is grounded in Jesus' declaration that "All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth." This authority is absolute, granted by the Father, and rooted in His divine nature. While not yet fully recognized by the world, it is the real and ultimate authority under which the church operates. • The Central Command is to Make Disciples: The sermon corrects a common misinterpretation, emphasizing that the primary verb is not "go," but "make disciples." The command is better understood as, "As you are going, make disciples," meaning disciple-making is a continuous purpose to be carried out wherever a believer is. • The Nature of a Disciple: A disciple is defined as a person saved by God's grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. This involves recognizing one's sinfulness and trusting in Christ's finished work. Disciples are not perfect but are characterized by a wholehearted commitment to following Jesus' commands, which are based on God's moral law. They are sensitive to their sin and actively seek repentance and growth. • The Method of Disciple-Making: The primary method for making disciples is the preaching of the Gospel. This leads to the formation of churches, which are the visible expression of God's kingdom on earth. • The Role of Baptism and the Church: Baptism is presented as the authoritative sign of the New Covenant and a crucial part of making disciples.

The sermon centers on Hebrews 8:1-6, explaining the superior nature of Christ's high priestly ministry. The speaker emphasizes that the "main point" of the letter is that Christians have a high priest, Jesus, who has taken His seat at God's right hand. The core of the message is built on the dual natures of Christ: 1. His Deity: Christ's majesty is inherent to His divine nature; it is not something added to Him. He was never removed from His throne, even during His incarnation. He can remain in the Father's presence because He is co-equal in essence with the Father. This divine nature was necessary for His sacrifice to be sufficient to satisfy the holy wrath of a holy God, which has been "so offended" by human sin. 2. His Humanity: Christ's humanity is equally essential. By assuming human flesh, He was able to serve as a mediator, live a perfect life, and offer Himself as the final sacrifice. He "obtained" a more excellent ministry and glory through His obedient work on earth. This superior ministry makes Christ the mediator of a "better covenant." The Old Covenant, with its priests and sacrifices, was merely a "copy and shadow" pointing forward to Christ. It was never designed to provide salvation. The New Covenant is truly new because it is enacted on "better promises" and actually accomplishes the salvation and preservation of God's people, making the old ceremonial system obsolete.

The sermon provides a detailed analysis of Joshua chapter 7, using the story of Achan as a case study on the seriousness of sin, the necessity of divine accountability, and the ultimate solution found in the Gospel. The speaker contrasts biblical justice with modern culture's emphasis on rehabilitation, arguing that society often downplays the need for severe consequences. The sermon unfolds by tracing the progression of Achan's sin, as framed by James 1:14-15. It began not with God's tempting, but with Achan's own lust or covetousness. This internal "greed of the heart" escalated into the external acts of stealing and hiding forbidden items, a direct violation of God's recent and historical commands. His single act is shown to be a breach of multiple aspects of God's moral law. A key point is Achan's confession. It is portrayed as genuine and theologically significant, akin to David's in Psalm 51, because he acknowledges his sin as primarily an offense "against the Lord." His detailed admission of where the loot was hidden is seen as evidence of true repentance. However, the sermon strongly emphasizes that repentance does not always remove temporal consequences. Achan's private sin had devastating public effects—the death of 36 men and the defeat of Israel—and thus, judgment was still necessary and just within the old covenant's theocratic context. This principle of accountability is extended to the New Testament church. The speaker uses the story of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5) and Jesus' teachings in Matthew 16 and 18 to argue that God's holiness is unchanging and that the church has a God-given responsibility to address sin for its own health and purity.

Gospel Preaching and Teaching

• Who God Is: God is holy, just, perfect, and patient. His laws are an expression of His love, designed to protect us. His wrath is not arbitrary but a righteous response to persistent, unrepentant sin. • Who We Are: We are created in God's image with an innate desire to worship. Because of the Fall, this desire is broken. If we do not worship the one true God, we will inevitably find other things to worship (idols). • How We Should Live: o We must recognize the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God. o While our culture is more "sophisticated" and we may not bow to physical statues, we fashion our own idols from the things around us, hoping to find security, purpose, or happiness apart from God. o The story of God's judgment points us to our need for a savior. It is a picture of the wrath we all deserve. Jesus Christ lived the law perfectly, died the sinner's death to bear God's wrath for us, and rose again. We are called to place our faith in Him, who fulfilled the law we could not. The Church is God's intended solution for seeing His purposes worked out among people. As a community of believers, we are called to encourage one another to live according to God's ways. • We help each other recognize the things God has placed "under the ban." • We encourage each other to stay away from these things. • We remind one another that Christ took the wrath of God on our behalf for our transgressions, including the sin of self-worship. The only hope for giving God the glory He deserves is to trust in Christ alone, who took the wrath for the things under the ban upon Himself at the cross.

 Central point: Believers have a high priest (Jesus) seated at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.  Contrast with Mosaic/Aaronic priesthood: earthly sacrifices, inability to sit in holy place; Christ ministers directly in God's presence.  Christ's ministry transcends earthly altars; only baptism and the Lord's Supper are prescribed physical elements in worship.  Fulfillment of types: Melchizedek (priest-king), Zechariah 6:13, Isaiah 6; Christ as priest, king, and prophet.  Warning against idolatry of physical forms, modern inventions, medicine, and statues; uphold the second commandment.  Critique of Roman Catholicism and certain Anglican practices for added physical forms and views on mediation/deification.  Encouragement: Christ's ascension and session guarantee hope; His cosmic ministry is not bound by time.

The world needs to understand the doctrine of sin. The Ten Commandments are not just a moral standard; they are the stipulations of God's covenant, flowing from His very moral being. To break them is to break covenant with a holy God. Every one of us has broken this covenant and fallen short. We cannot stand before God and claim to be better than Achan. The only hope any of us has is to recognize the seriousness of our sin—that it is a covenant-breaking act with eternal consequences—and turn to the only remedy. The remedy is to repent and believe. The death of Achan and his family at the end of the chapter only makes sense when we grasp the profound seriousness of sin. But our hope is not in trying harder. Our hope is in the one who perfectly fulfilled the covenant command: the Lord Jesus Christ. The final prayer and hymn served as a call to action: to see our sin, to recognize it as a covenant-breaking act, and to flee to our strong Savior, whose perfect life, broken body, and shed blood are our only hope. We must not be legalists who trust in our own performance, but humble believers who find our rest in Christ alone.

The Regulative Principle of Worship • The sermon defines the "regulative principle of worship" as the practice of worshipping God strictly according to His prescribed Word, rather than through human tradition or "seeker-friendly" tactics. • Acts 2:42 serves as the foundational text, illustrating an orderly, spirit-led pattern for the early church that avoids chaos . • The speaker argues that this passage is prescriptive, not merely descriptive, because it mirrors the divine pattern of establishment seen in Old Testament Israel . Core Elements of Worship • The four definitive elements of worship identified are the apostles' teaching, the fellowship (koinonia), the breaking of the bread, and the prayers . • "The apostles' teaching" is prioritized as the central, public, and sufficient authority for the church, emphasizing sola scriptura. • "The fellowship" (koinonia) is interpreted as a specific, tangible act of worship involving financial support and material sharing, rather than a general social concept . • "The breaking of the bread" refers specifically to the Lord's Supper, while "the prayers" denotes formal, corporate prayer led by men in the congregation.

Israel Conquered the City According to God's Orders • The Wall Fell: At the shout, God brought the walls down. The pastor referenced archaeologist Joel Kramer, whose findings suggest the top wall crumbled down over the lower retaining wall, creating a natural ramp for the Israelite soldiers to charge directly into the city. God's catastrophic work enabled Israel's final task. • The City Was Destroyed: The city, its people, and its goods were utterly destroyed and burned, as commanded. The only exceptions were Rahab and her family, and the precious metals set aside for the Lord's treasury. Archaeological evidence of burned grain indicates the attack was near harvest time (confirming the timing in Joshua 3) and that the Israelites obeyed God by not taking plunder for themselves. • The Judgment on Mankind: The total destruction of all people—young and old—demonstrates the severe consequences for anything or anyone that God places "under the ban." This was a holy reckoning, not reckless ruin.

Key Points 1. Deacon is an office built upon the Gospel principle of serving one another in Christ: Flowing from commands such as "love your neighbor as yourself," God established deacons to embody and organize servant-love within the church. • Deacons are men of good reputation according to biblical qualifications: The church should observe evident, Spirit-empowered character; all Christians should emulate these traits. • Deacons aid the spiritual ministry of the church by their more temporal responsibilities: Practical service undergirds preaching, prayer, unity, and mission; temporal work serves eternal ends.

• Your salvation rests on an eternal promise made before time existed — not on anything you can see, feel, or achieve • Christ is interceding for you right now — permanently, perfectly, without fatigue or interruption • Do not drift toward the visible and convenient at the expense of the eternal foundations of the gospel • The church must recover the eternality of the gospel — the whole Bible, Old and New Testament together, tells one covenantal story pointing to Christ • God is never tired of hearing your prayers — bring every need, every petition, every burden to your eternal High Priest

The Authority and Order of the Church • Christ is the head of the church and has vested authority in the local body of believers to maintain order and accountability, preventing chaos. • The church is instructed to follow a prescribed order, which includes the appointment of two specific offices: elders and deacons . The Office of Elder • The terms "pastor," "elder," "overseer," "shepherd," "presbyter," and "bishop" are synonymous, all referring to the single office of elder or pastor. • Qualifications for the office of elder are explicitly outlined in 1 Timothy 3, emphasizing spiritual maturity, integrity, and the ability to teach. • The office of elder is reserved for men, and candidates must be vetted by the local church to confirm both an internal call and external recognition. Ministerial Responsibilities • Elders are commanded to diligently preach and apply the Word of God, pray for the flock, and keep watch over the souls of the congregation, for which they will give an account. • The church must exercise shared, vested authority to approve officers through common suffrage, ensuring that neither the leadership nor the congregation acts outside of biblical order.

The Priesthood of Christ and the Melchizedek Order • The Hebrews writer uses Melchizedek as a type to foreshadow the priesthood of Christ, emphasizing that Jesus belongs to the order of Melchizedek rather than the Levitical priesthood . • Christ's priesthood is established not by physical requirements or lineage, but by the power of an indestructible life, distinguishing Him from the Levitical priests who were subject to death . • Jesus, as the Son of God, possesses an indestructible life in both His divine being and His human person, allowing Him to render the power of death and the devil ineffective . The Fulfillment and Setting Aside of the Law • The gospel is described as both simple and intricate, with Jesus fulfilling the moral, judicial, and ceremonial laws perfectly in His life and death. • The former commandments, specifically the judicial and ceremonial laws, are set aside because they were weak and unable to make anyone perfect, unlike the new covenant established through Christ . • The sacrificial system of the Old Testament was merely a foreshadowing that could not produce eternal pardon, whereas Christ's sacrifice provides final and eternal redemption. The Nature of the New Covenant • The law was never intended to make people perfect but rather to showcase the glory of God and the requirements for those He created. • Jesus corrected the misapplications of the law by religious leaders, demonstrating that true righteousness comes from the heart and is fulfilled through His person and work. • The transition from the Saturday Sabbath to the Lord's Day (Sunday) is attributed to the authority of Christ as High Priest, based on His resurrection on the first day of

• The sermon asserts that God alone regulates corporate worship, meaning practices must be authorized by His Word rather than human invention. • The church is defined as God's house—a local, visible assembly with sacred designations, distinct from the universal church. • The speaker warns against "self-made religion," where human preferences replace divine commands, noting that such practices lack spiritual value. • God's special presence is uniquely promised to the gathered church, requiring distinct, reverent conduct unlike any other aspect of daily life.

• The Levitical priesthood lacked perfection, necessitating a transition to the superior, eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ, who operates by the power of an indestructible life. • Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecy, specifically Psalm 110, as the eternal Son of God, rendering the former ceremonial and judicial laws obsolete through His better covenant.

This Bible Study, "The Superiority of Christ's Priesthood," explains the significance of Psalm 110 and Hebrews 7 by showing that Jesus Christ is the eternal High Priest after the order of Melchizedek. The pastor begins by emphasizing that Melchizedek served as a type and forerunner of Christ's priesthood, appearing before Abraham, Moses, Aaron, and the Levitical system. This establishes that Christ's priesthood is older, greater, and more universal than the priesthood of Levi. Hebrews 7:11 raises the central issue: if perfection could have come through the Levitical priesthood, there would have been no need for another priest. The sermon argues that the Levitical priesthood was insufficient because its priests were sinful, temporary, and unable to secure eternal salvation. From Aaron's failure with the golden calf to later priestly corruption, the Old Testament shows repeated evidence of an imperfect priesthood. Psalm 110:4 announces a better priest: one appointed by God's unchanging oath, serving forever according to the order of Melchizedek. This prophecy is fulfilled in Christ, who comes not from Levi but from Judah. He is both King and Priest, fulfilling God's promise to bless Jews and Gentiles alike. The Bible Study concludes by urging believers to rest in the completeness of Christ. Jesus fulfilled the ceremonial law, offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice, rose from the dead, and now serves forever as the true High Priest. Christians must not trade the substance of Christ for external ceremony, tradition, or religious spectacle.

This sermon, "God Instills Faith in Those Who Eagerly Enjoy His Commands," explains Joshua 5:1–12 as a moment of spiritual preparation before military conquest. After Israel crossed the Jordan, the expected priority might have been battle strategy, but God first commanded covenant renewal and worship. The central lesson is that God strengthens faith in His people by calling them to joyful obedience. Israel's renewed circumcision reconnected the new generation to the covenant God made with Abraham. This act reminded them of the previous generation's unbelief and disobedience in the wilderness, while also confirming that God had faithfully brought His people into the land He promised. Circumcision also marked Israel as separate from the nations and symbolized the rolling away of Egypt's reproach—the shame of slavery, syncretism, and unbelief. The sermon then turns to Israel's renewed Passover worship at Gilgal. Just as the first Passover marked deliverance from Egypt, this Passover marked entrance into Canaan. God placed His people in the exact place they needed to be, providing rest, recovery, worship, and food from the land. When the manna ceased, God's provision did not stop; rather, His method of provision changed. The sermon applies these truths to the New Covenant church. God's ordinances are non-negotiable, especially Baptism and the Lord's Supper. Worship is not governed by personal preference but by God's Word. The promises of God are never negated, because what He promised to Abraham He fulfilled, and what He promises believers in Christ He will also fulfill.

God's Sovereignty Over Geography and History • The sermon focuses on Joshua 5:1, examining how God prepared the way for Israel by instilling fear in the hearts of the Amorite and Canaanite kings. • God is presented as sovereign over all geographical space, meaning no leader or nation exists outside of His control . • The speaker emphasizes that God is the first cause of all creation and providence, and He is not caught up in human emotions or surprised by the actions of world leaders . The Use of Means in Divine Providence • God utilized the "means" of His word and the Israelites' obedience to melt the hearts of their enemies. • The miracle of the Jordan River crossing served as a testimony that spread throughout Canaan, causing the kings to lose their courage and spirit . • The speaker argues that God uses both inanimate means, like His word, and human actions, such as the obedience of believers, to accomplish His purposes in history. The Immutable Nature of God • A central theme is that God does not change, regardless of the problems or circumstances faced by His people . • While the kings of Canaan were left to their own sin natures, God remained in control, demonstrating that He is not hindered by human rebellion. • The sermon concludes that Christians should find stability in God's unchanging nature, trusting that He will not leave or forsake His people, even in the face of persecution or difficulty.

This sermon on Joshua 4:8–24 emphasizes that the command of the Lord must be obeyed to the glory of God. Israel's crossing of the Jordan was not merely a historical transition into Canaan; it was a covenantal act of obedience, remembrance, and worship. The twelve stones taken from the river and placed at Gilgal became a visible memorial, teaching future generations that the Lord had brought His people across on dry ground by His mighty hand. The sermon highlights the careful, immediate obedience of Israel, the priests, and the eastern tribes. The people followed Joshua's instructions precisely. The priests remained in the Jordan with the Ark until every command was completed. Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh honored their covenant commitment by crossing ready for battle. Their obedience teaches believers to respond to God's Word attentively, without distraction or self-invented alternatives. Joshua's exaltation before Israel points typologically to the greater exaltation of Christ, who died, rose, ascended, and will receive universal confession as Lord. The memorial stones also point to the church's responsibility to remember and teach: fathers, families, and congregations must explain God's works, worship, baptism, the Lord's Supper, and the Lord's Day to the next generation. The central applications are clear: remember God's past mercies, trust His sovereign timing, worship as He has prescribed, honor covenant obligations, and obey His present commands. God is faithful to complete His promises, and His people must live as remembering, obedient disciples. This remembrance strengthens faith as God carries His people through every Jordan.

This sermon, "The Steward's Walk," continues the Money Lessons series by moving from a biblical worldview of money to the practical life of Christian stewardship. The central issue is not merely budgeting or financial discipline, but the condition of the heart before God. The sermon begins by examining four "money classrooms"—anxious, unstable, unaware, and secure—showing how childhood experiences with money often shape adult fears, assumptions, and habits. Yet Scripture calls believers to submit every financial attitude to the lordship of Christ. Psalm 24 establishes the foundation: "The earth is the LORD's." God owns all things; we are managers, fiduciaries, and stewards of what belongs to Him. Therefore, the Christian question is not, "What do I want to do with my money?" but, "What does the Master want me to do with His money?" The sermon contrasts fear-driven stewardship with faith-filled generosity through the Parable of the Talents and David's temple offering in 1 Chronicles 29. Wealth is not a trophy of merit, nor is poverty a mark of failure. Both are sovereignly assigned responsibilities under God's providence. New Covenant giving is presented not as legalistic compulsion, but as cheerful, proportionate, worshipful participation in the life of the local church. Giving is an act of corporate praise, a declaration that God is provider, and a response to grace already received in Christ. The sermon concludes by calling believers to contentment, eternal perspective, and faithful management of all God has entrusted to them.

Welcome to a powerful message that delves into the ancient story of Joshua and the Israelites as they cross the Jordan River! Have you ever wondered why we commemorate significant events, or how history shapes our present? Today, we're exploring Joshua chapter four, where God commands the Israelites to set up twelve memorial stones. These aren't just rocks; they're tangible reminders of God's miraculous power, His unwavering faithfulness, and the life-giving importance of obedience. Join us as we uncover how these stones served as a perpetual teaching tool for generations, emphasizing God's progressive revelation and the critical role of Word-centered leadership. Discover why God's commands are always for our good, and how the church today is called to live under His theocratic rule, guided by Scripture alone. This sermon will challenge you to reflect on your own "memorials" – the ways you remember God's grace through His Word, baptism, and the Lord's Supper. Get ready to be encouraged and equipped to instruct your children in the truth of the Gospel!

Are you truly understanding the foundation of your faith? In this powerful sermon, we dive deep into the book of Hebrews, uncovering the profound truth of Jesus Christ's superior priesthood. Many are tempted to rely on rituals or works for righteousness, much like the original Jewish audience of Hebrews clung to the Mosaic covenant. But what if God's plan for a priest began long before Moses, even before Abraham? Discover the mysterious figure of Melchizedek, a pre-Mosaic king and priest, whom the Bible reveals as a crucial 'type' foreshadowing Jesus. We'll explore how the Old Testament, far from being detached, is the very lens through which we see Christ's ultimate fulfillment. Learn why clinging to physical acts of worship or man-made traditions can become dangerous idols, distracting us from the perfect, once-for-all work of our High Priest. This message challenges us to see God's eternal covenantal work, culminating in Jesus, who entered the veil for us, paying our debt and bearing God's wrath. Stop seeking righteousness in what you do and find true, lasting hope in what Christ has done. Don't miss this vital lesson on biblical interpretation and the unchanging truth of our Savior!

In this sermon from the series Doctrines of Grace, the pastor turns to the final point of TULIP: the Preservation of the Saints. Preaching from John 10:22-30, he shows that the believer's security does not rest in human strength, emotional confidence, or personal resolve, but in the Triune God who saves and keeps His people. Jesus declares, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." These words reveal the Spirit's abiding testimony, the Son's intimate knowledge, and the Father's unchangeable purpose. Christ gives His sheep eternal life, promises they will never perish, and assures them that no one can snatch them from His hand. This doctrine is not a license for careless living, but a foundation for humble, courageous faith. It comforts weak believers, mortifies pride, steadies wavering feelings, and magnifies the glory of Christ. If salvation depended finally on us, we would surely fall. But because it depends on God, His people are secure. The grace that saves is the grace that keeps. God cannot fail, and therefore those who truly belong to Christ will be preserved to the end forever.

In this sermon on Romans 12:1–2, Deacon Dustin begins a series on a life of holiness by showing that Christian obedience is never detached from the gospel. The "therefore" of Romans 12 rests on the mercies of God displayed throughout Romans 1–11: humanity's sin, God's righteousness, justification by faith, peace with God, freedom in Christ, sovereign election, salvation for all peoples, and the doxology of worship. Holy living is not produced by fear, shame, or self-reliance, but by the kindness and mercy of God. Christ not only justifies His people from the guilt of sin, but sanctifies them by the power of the Holy Spirit. Paul calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices. This means holiness involves real self-denial, an ongoing fight against sin, and a life wholly devoted to God's glory. The will of God for every Christian is sanctification. Finally, obedience is spiritual worship. God saves first, then calls His redeemed people to walk in holiness. True worship is not limited to songs or services; it is the whole life offered back to God in grateful obedience. The gospel does not merely inform the mind. It transforms the life.

The pastor began by explaining a change in his planned sermon. He had intended to preach on the implications of AI for Christians but felt a clear, providential leading from God to address a different, more pressing topic. The subject for this sermon is the radical nature of discipleship. This message serves as both a heart-check for those who already profess to follow Christ and a direct warning to anyone considering it. The central question is: What will it cost you to be a true Christian? In a Western culture where following Christ can seem to cost very little, it is crucial to remember that Scripture presents a high, costly, and life-changing requirement for discipleship.

The sermon opens with a sobering observation about congregational readiness. God provides godly leadership when His people genuinely desire to follow His Word. Joshua's example is compelling — he rose early, consecrated the people, and delegated wisely. The call to consecration is pressed home as more than ritual: it is a heart-preparation for worship, an intentional posture of readiness before the God who is about to act. God's theological preparation of Israel centers on the reassurance of His presence. The statement, "Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you" (v. 5), carries enormous weight for a people still grieving their great leader. Joshua steps into a mediatorial role that ultimately foreshadows the Lord Jesus Christ, the one perfect Mediator between God and man. The miracle itself — the waters of the Jordan standing in a heap as the priests' feet touched the flood-stage river — is treated not as a curiosity but as a covenant declaration. God is the Lord of all the earth, and creation obeys Him. The naturalistic explanations are set aside: this was an instantaneous, unmistakable act of divine power, analogous to the parting of the Red Sea, intended to prepare the minds of God's people for every battle ahead. The sermon closes with three durable truths: God is omnipresent and sovereign over every trial; He never leaves His people without His Word; and true assurance is found not in our own ability but in obeying who God is. As the sermon memorably states, "Yahweh delights to show His might when we are helpless."

Key Points 1. The priesthood is a central biblical theme, culminating in Jesus' eternal priesthood "after the order of Melchizedek." 2. The Old Testament priesthood is typological—revealing our need for a mediator and pointing to Christ's perfect mediation. 3. Israel was called to be a holy nation and a kingdom of priests; God provided Levitical mediation knowing human waywardness. 4. Retreating to the visible temple system (or any convenient tradition) denies Christ's finished work and His exclusive way to the Father. 5. Jesus uniquely fulfills the priesthood as both Priest and Sacrifice, and His resurrection is attested by eyewitnesses in Scripture. 6. Christ's priesthood and kingship secure our hope as an anchor; going back to anything else is spiritual peril.

Discover the astounding grace of God in our latest sermon, "God Signals the Hope for His People," concluding our study of Joshua chapter two! Join us as we delve into the incredible story of Rahab, a Gentile prostitute, whom God sovereignly used to advance His plan for Israel. This message powerfully illustrates how God extends His grace through unexpected means, offering a covenant of safety and hope to all who believe. We explore the profound symbolism of the scarlet cord and Rahab's house becoming an "ark of safety" for her family, highlighting that obedience flows from belief. This sermon reveals God's boundless capacity to save sinners from all backgrounds—rich, poor, hardened, or meek. It's a powerful reminder that God's faithfulness never wavers, even when we are fearful or doubtful. You'll be encouraged to see how faith and precautionary measures are not enemies, and how God's smiling providence is always at work, orchestrating every detail of life for His glory. Understand that God has a perfect plan, works according to His unfailing promises, and is always in the business of saving sinful people. Rahab's inclusion in Jesus's lineage is a testament to His boundless, transforming grace. Don't miss this powerful message that reminds us our ultimate hope is found only in His Son, Jesus Christ. Watch now and be renewed in your faith and understanding of God's incredible work!

Feeling adrift in a world of uncertainty? Discover a hope that is both sure and steadfast in our latest sermon, 'The Covenant Produces a Most Sure Hope.' Based on Hebrews 6:17-20, this powerful message explores how God's unchangeable promise and covenant provide an unshakable foundation for your soul, even amidst life's most challenging storms. Unlike the fleeting, subjective hopes of humanism, this is an objective reality—Jesus Christ Himself. He is the eternal anchor for your soul, securing you against drifting and providing stability when trials hit. While our emotions may waver, Christ, our anchor, never changes. He has entered 'within the veil' as our Forerunner, opening the way to God's very presence and guaranteeing our eternal future. Learn why this hope is utterly trustworthy, offering not just present strength and encouragement, but profound, eternal value for your immortal soul. Join us as we delve into the truth that nothing can move the anchor of a believer saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. Find true stability, peace, and joy in the unshakeable hope found only in Jesus. Watch now and let your soul be anchored in Him!

Dive into Joshua chapter 2 and uncover the incredible story of Rahab, a pagan woman whose life became a testament to God's sovereign power and faithfulness. This sermon reveals how Rahab, against all odds, reminded the Israelite spies of God's unwavering promises, recalling His miraculous acts like drying the Red Sea and defeating mighty kings. Her confession wasn't just historical recall; it exposed the deep, paralyzing fear that had gripped the formidable Canaanites, fulfilling ancient prophecies and demonstrating God's ability to demoralize nations before His people even crossed the Jordan. Rahab's profound declaration, "The Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath," highlights her genuine belief in the one true God. Her courageous plea for grace for her family, followed by her immediate action of tying the scarlet cord—a symbol of covenant—showcases a heart transformed by faith, a truth celebrated in the New Testament. This message offers powerful applications: God melts nations, protects His people through the most challenging circumstances, and possesses the ultimate power to change any human heart. Our ultimate hope rests not in earthly kingdoms, but in Christ Jesus and His eternal reign. Trust in Him alone.

This sermon on Joshua 1 explores the pivotal transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua, emphasizing God's unwavering faithfulness amidst national grief and uncertainty. Following Moses's death, God directly addresses Joshua, reiterating His precise promises regarding the land and pledging His unfailing presence: "I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you" . The message highlights that true strength and courage for Joshua, and for believers today, stem not from human might but from faith in God's character and His promises . God's plan is perfect and on time, never requiring readjustment, and is always connected to His infallible Word . The sermon stresses the necessity of meditating on God's Word day and night, not merely reciting it, to renew our minds, fight against worldly anxieties, and achieve true success—which is defined by obedience to God, not worldly prosperity . Joshua's immediate action to prepare the people for crossing the Jordan exemplifies faith-filled leadership and corporate obedience . The sermon draws parallels to the Christian life, where God's promises in Christ lead to the ultimate inheritance of a new heaven and new earth, free from sin and trial . In a world filled with instability, the unchanging nature of God's Word and His constant presence offer profound comfort and a call to courageous, obedient living.

This sermon from Hebrews 6, "Better Things That Accompany Salvation," explores how genuine salvation produces good works, strengthening a believer's assurance. Pastor Brandon F. Smith emphasizes that true faith leads to Spirit-wrought good works—like worship, ministering to saints, and confessing sin—which are biblically defined, not man-made. He clarifies that assurance is ultimately grounded in Christ's finished work, not personal achievement. This hope is a "sure and steadfast anchor," not vague optimism, ensuring God's preservation and the believer's perseverance. The message warns against sluggishness, which weakens assurance, and encourages diligence rooted in a renewed mind. A prayer request is shared for Erica Warren, who is under hospice care for cancer. The sermon also addresses common misunderstandings, clarifying that salvation promises an ongoing battle against sin, not immediate sinlessness.

Gospel Preaching and Teaching

The sermon explores the profound theological truth that human beings are made in the image of the triune God, a distinction that sets humanity apart from all creation and renders artificial intelligence incapable of possessing a soul. It unfolds this truth through three dimensions: first, the divinely deliberated image, emphasizing that humanity was uniquely conceived in the counsel of the Trinity, reflecting God's joy, dignity, and relational nature; second, the divinely analogical image, highlighting that humans bear God's likeness not in essence but in structure—body and soul united, with faculties of consciousness, reason, will, communication, emotion, and morality, all reflecting the Trinitarian unity of distinction and oneness; third, the divinely restored and eschatological image, affirming that while sin has distorted the image, the gospel of Christ is restoring it through sanctification, culminating in the future glorification of believers when their bodies are redeemed and they are fully conformed to Christ's image. The message is both a warning against the cultural erosion of human identity and a hopeful call to anchor our sense of self in Christ alone, where true humanity is preserved, restored, and fulfilled.

This sermon on Hebrews 6:9-12 highlights the vital link between God's promises and our perseverance in faith. It clarifies that salvation is God's monergistic work, while sanctification is a synergistic process where good works naturally flow from a transformed heart, not as a means to earn salvation. The speaker warns against two errors: believing good works save you, or thinking grace allows for a life devoid of good works. True faith, he asserts, inevitably produces good works. Good works are defined as those explicitly commanded by God in His Word, not human-devised acts of "blind zeal." Examples include worshipping God according to His prescribed ways (not personal convenience, as illustrated by the importance of Sunday assembly), loving our neighbors, and ministering to fellow believers. These actions serve as evidence of a "true and lively faith," edifying the church and adorning the gospel. A lack of such works, the sermon suggests, casts doubt on one's profession of faith. The message urges "diligence"—an eager, zealous effort in faith—as the antidote to spiritual "sluggishness" or laziness. This diligence is about applying oneself to God's commands with one's current capacity, whether young or old, focusing on loving God and neighbor. The sermon concludes with a prayer for a desire to live for God in love, performing good works because we are saved, not to achieve salvation.

This sermon explores the profound identity of Israel, not just as a chosen and physical people, but as a "typological people." Typology is a biblical pattern where a "type" (a person, event, or institution) prefigures an "antitype," which is its ultimate fulfillment. God's overarching plan unfolds through promises, progressive revelation, and eventual fulfillment.Key characteristics of a biblical type include: 1. Analogical Correspondence: A clear, scriptural relationship between the type and its fulfillment, such as the Old Testament sacrificial system pointing to Christ's sacrifice. 2. Historicity: Types are rooted in real historical events and people. 3. Foreshadowing & Escalation: A type begins veiled or dark (like the promise in Genesis 3:15) but gains progressive clarity, with the "light getting brighter" until Christ's full revelation. 4. Retrospection: The antitype is always greater than the type and represents its final fulfillment. Moses, for example, was a type, but Christ is the far greater antitype.

This sermon from Hebrews 6:9-12 offers profound encouragement, shifting from stern warnings to the secure identity of true believers. The core message distinguishes between those who genuinely believe and those who merely "fall away" because they never truly believed. The speaker emphasizes that believers are "beloved" by God, a term signifying deep, covenantal love, mirroring the Father's love for the Son. This status means true believers cannot lose their salvation; to suggest otherwise would question God's sovereignty and faithfulness . The "better things" accompanying salvation are not earned but are the divine "paraphernalia" that hold believers fast: God's predetermined plan, Christ's work, regeneration, justification, and sanctification . These are the fruits of genuine faith, not its cause. God is just and does not forget the "work" (active zeal) and "love" (covenantal love for His name) shown by His people . This work and love are expressed practically through ministering to the saints—caring for, looking after, and watching over one another within the church . The sermon concludes by linking this active love for the church to the assurance of salvation. If you struggle with assurance, the practical advice is to get busy loving the body of Christ and faithfully participating in corporate worship. This shifts focus from self-centeredness to God's work in and through you, reinforcing the truth that salvation is entirely God's work, and He is faithful to complete it .

To grasp the power of Jesus's statement, we must understand the totality of who He is and what He has done. • Key Point 1: Jesus's Person is Necessary to Overcome Death. We cannot separate Jesus from His divine being. He is not just a good teacher or a moral example. He is the eternal Son of God, and only His divine person is sufficient to conquer death. • Key Point 2: Jesus's Message is Necessary to Overcome Death. The message is not simply "be a good person." The message is that Jesus Himself is the resurrection and the life. Believing in Him—as the Son of God who lived, died, and was raised for us—is the only message that has power over death. • Key Point 3: Jesus's Work is Necessary to Overcome Death. We cannot diminish the work of Christ, particularly the blood atonement. His sacrificial death was the necessary payment for our sin. Without His life, death, and resurrection, we have no hope of standing safely before God. When we read, "I am the resurrection and the life," we should be amazed not only that Jesus could call Lazarus from the tomb, but more so that He is the very power over death itself. He is the fulfillment of all God's promises and the only source of eternal life.

This sermon explores Hebrews 6:4-12, clarifying its message not as losing salvation, but as distinguishing between genuine belief and unbelief. It uses an agricultural illustration: "blessed ground" represents true believers, producing useful vegetation through ongoing sanctification, while "cursed ground" signifies unbelievers, yielding thorns and thistles, ultimately destined for judgment. The speaker highlights this warning as part of a broader theme in Hebrews, urging listeners to heed cautions against "drifting away" and developing an "unbelieving heart." The message is powerfully reinforced by Jesus' parables. The Parable of the Sower illustrates various responses to God's Word, from immediate rejection to superficial joy choked by worldly worries, contrasting them with the "good soil" of true faith. The Parable of the Wheat and Tares shows believers and unbelievers coexisting, outwardly similar but revealed by their fruit at harvest. The Dragnet parable further emphasizes the final separation at judgment. The sermon concludes with a call to self-examination: Is your trust solely in Christ, or are you relying on self or worldly concerns? Unbelief is the ultimate rebellion; belief in Christ is humanity's only hope.

• Scripture: Joshua 1:1-2 • Context: Following the death of Moses, God speaks directly to Joshua, his servant. God commands Joshua to rise and lead the "sons of Israel" across the Jordan River into the land He is giving them. • Overarching Theme: Following last week's theme ("Israel is a chosen people"), this week's theme is: Israel is a physical people. • Main Idea: The phrase "sons of Israel" refers to a real, historical people with a tangible history. Their journey spans centuries of God's providence and thousands of miles of physical land, beginning with Abram's journey from Ur to Canaan—a journey of over 3,000 miles that took decades. This demonstrates the immense faith Abraham had in God's promise. We must understand these Old Testament narratives as accounts of real, physical humans, not myths.

This sermon delves into Hebrews 6:4-12, focusing on the controversial phrase "fallen away." The pastor emphasizes interpreting difficult passages through the lens of broader Scripture, particularly regarding salvation's origin. Salvation, he explains, begins with God's eternal decree, not human will. Citing Romans 8 and Ephesians 1, he highlights predestination and God's unchangeable choice before the world's foundation. This means genuine believers, chosen by God, cannot "unsave" themselves; they will persevere to the end. The "work and love" mentioned in Hebrews 6:10 are evidence of salvation, not its cause. Therefore, those who "fall away" were never truly saved, despite experiencing God's common grace and exposure to the faith. Their rejection of this grace makes their judgment just. The parable of the sower illustrates this: God's grace falls on all, but only good ground produces fruit, while thorny ground reveals a heart of stone. The message offers both assurance and warning: true salvation is secure in Christ, but continuous, unrepentant sin can reveal an unchanged heart. We cannot know God's full decree, but our hope for ourselves and others rests solely in the gospel's power.