AM Scripture Reading: Psalm 119.57-60 Brent T. Willey Three Timeless Questions Introduction: Whenever brother Gus Nichols (1892-1975) did any sort of counseling, he began the first session with three questions: “Do you really want to do what is right?” “Are you ready for the Bible to tell you what is right?” “Are you willing to do what the Bible says right now?” For brother Nichols, a “no” answer ended the sessions. These three questions are extremely valid. I. DOING WHAT IS RIGHT “Do you really want to do what is right?” (Col. 3.17) God gives us the opportunity to do […]

PM Scripture Reading: 2 Tim. 2:1-7   David M. Fiddament CHRISTIAN OCCUPATIONS Introduction: When working a job, one must fill the job description. Paul wants to make sure Timothy does the required work. We should apply the merits of these vocations in our lives as well! I. A SOLDIER (v. 3-4) Soldiers endure hardship. (1 Tim. 1:18-20; 2 Tim. 4:5) No soldier is entangled in life. (Rom. 6:4-6; 7:15-20; 12:1-2; Eph. 6:10-17) Soldiers aim to please their commander. They complete the mission in obedience. (2 Cor. 10:3-5) They wish to be promoted. (Matt. 25:21) Soldiers are disciplined. II. AN ATHLETE […]

AM Scripture Reading: 1 Timothy 6.17-21 This Morning’s Sermon:            Brent T. Willey “What Then?” 1 Timothy 6.17-19 Introduction: Paul instructed Timothy to “command those who are rich in this present age” to pursue lives that honor and glorify God. However, the passage is not just for the “wealthy,” but is equally important for all who wish to succeed, because there are several factors to consider on the “road to success.” If we are able to achieve certain things in this life, what then? I. TRUST THE LIVING GOD – Verse 17 It is easy to “trust” [Elpizō: expect] in […]

How does my behavior affect my neighbor’s attitude toward God and His word? That is an intriguing question, and one that should not be ignored. The apostle Paul reminded the evangelist Titus to instruct the Cretan brethren, “that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things” (Titus 2.10). Paul employs the Greek word, kosmeō, which means “to put in proper order, i.e., to decorate” (Strong). Thayer says, “metaphorically, to embellish with honor, to gain honor.” It is used of the “putting on of apparel” (1 Tim. 2.9). Our behavior, in a manner of speaking, is the […]

Today’s Scripture Readings: AM: Romans 12.1-8 & PM: Romans 12.9-21 ROMANS CHAPTER 12: DEDICATED SERVICE Brent Willey [am] & David Fiddament [pm] Introduction: The first 11 chapters in Romans are highly theological, whereas, chapters 12-15 are intensely pragmatic – designed for daily living. Chapter 12 has two noticeable sections worthy of our consideration. AM Service (Brent): I. TRANSFORMED SERVICE – Verses 1-8 Leaving the Cocoon: A Changed Life! (Verses 1-2) V. 1: “Living Sacrifice” V. 2: “Conformed” versus “Transformed” [suschematízō: conform to a pattern] vs. [metamorphóō: change forms] Serving with Humility: A Measure of Faith (Verse 3) Using the Gifts: […]

AM Scripture Reading: Matthew 27.27-37 Brent T. Willey From The Cross Introduction: “Telling the story of Jesus” should never get old! Let’s revisit the scene of Calvary and examine the seven utterances of Jesus From The Cross… I. “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23.34) Cicero reported the blasphemies of crucified criminals. But Jesus said, “Father, forgive them…” Forgive whom? II. “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise”(Luke 23.43) What had the thief asked? (v. 42) Who can forgive sins, but God? (Mark 2.9-10) III. “Woman, behold your […]

AM Scripture Reading: Acts 20.32-38 This Morning’s Sermon: Brent T. Willey The Spirit of Giving Acts 20.35 Introduction: Paul reaffirmed his relationship with the church in Ephesus and its eldership. (Acts 20.17-38) He reserved the simple, but profound, words of Jesus to conclude his exhortation: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (v. 35). The Spirit of Giving has numerous qualities & blessings… I. The Spirit of Giving Is First Thankful “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Cor. 9.15). Truly thankful people are the most giving. (Psa. 107.21-22) II. The Spirit of Giving Is Sacrificial […]

AM Scripture Reading: Luke 6.46-49 This Morning’s Sermon: Brent T. Willey DEFINE THE RELATIONSHIP Introduction: There is nothing more important than “relationships,” but they need to be well defined. When Jesus posed the question, “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6.46), He was defining the relationship between Himself & His disciples. God’s Word defines what our relationship with Christ is to be… I. DEFINING OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST Jesus Christ is our Savior His name, Jesus, means “salvation” (Matt. 1.21). “Through the washing of regeneration” (Titus 3.4-7). Jesus […]

PM Scripture Reading: Acts 17.10-15 Brent T. Willey Open To Truth! Acts 17.11 Introduction: Acts 17.11 notes a drastic difference between the Berean Jews and the Thessalonian Jews when it came to hearing the truth. We must do what the noble Bereans did. What is that? I. OPENING OUR MINDS “They received the word…” Coming to the truth takes hearing & learning. (John 6.45) Good listeners have open minds! (Matt. 13.14-15) “They received the word with all readiness (of mind)…” “Readiness” [prothumia], indicates an eager mind-set. Such is the “honest and good heart” (Luke 8.15). “If anyone wants to do […]

AM Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 3.8-12 This Morning’s Sermon: Brent T. Willey The Pursuit of Peace Introduction: “Peace” is one of the most beautiful words in any language. [Hebrew- shalōm & Greek- eirēnē: “a state of tranquility.”] The psalmist David declared, “Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (Psa. 34.14). Peter quoted David, “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it” (1 Pet. 3.10-11). The Pursuit […]