Advancing Word Podcast

Setbacks happen—to all of us. But with God, they don’t have to be the end of the story. In this encouraging Resurrection message, Dr. T. D. Stubblefield looks at the life of Joseph to remind us that what feels like a setback can actually be a setup for something greater. Originally shared during the 2025 Black History Month Celebration at Refresh Community Church in University City, Missouri, this sermon will lift your spirit and strengthen your faith.

On Palm Sunday according to Luke Chapter 19, verses 36 – 40, Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey amidst the applause and acclaim of the crowds that had gathered.  When His enemies criticized the crowd’s response, Jesus said, “If they hold their peace the stones will cry out!”   This message explores what a stone would tell us about our Savior?  What is the story in the stones?

In Part 6 and the final sermon of The Perfect Match series, Dr. T. D. Stubblefield concludes with a focus on the last of four fundamental dynamics of biblical marriage based on Genesis Chapter 2, verses 18 – 25.  Intimacy provides the physical, spiritual and emotional depth in the marital union.  It is derived from the Latin word intimatus, which means to “put or press into.”  It is “a GPS coordinate to the most innermost and essential being of another person.”  In this space, the essential you and the essential me can be found.  Intimacy involves the awareness of the self, the acceptance of the self and the atonement of the Savior.  

In Part 5 of The Perfect Match, Dr. T. D. Stubblefield focuses on “unity”, the third dynamic of biblical marriage based on Genesis Chapter 2, verse 24.  Like separation and permanence, in strong and vibrant marriages, unity and intimacy, the last dynamic in this compelling quartet co-exists, coalesce and cooperate.  Unity is the pattern and intimacy is the passion.  Unity is the fuel and intimacy is the fire.  Unity is the mechanics and intimacy is the mystery. Unity is not only a key component of biblical marriage but a fundamental concern in God’s redemptive plan.  

God designed marriage to last! In the fifth sermon of The Perfect Match Series, Dr. T. D. Stubblefield explores the dynamic of permanence in marriage. Marital failure and fragmentation have reached pandemic levels—49% of marriages end in divorce, and Christian couples face the same struggles. But is there hope when the thrill is gone and love’s intensity fades? This sermon offers biblical wisdom and practical guidance on renewing commitment, rekindling love, and building a lasting, God-centered marriage.

In the fourth sermon of The Perfect Match Series, Dr. T. D. Stubblefield explores the first key principle of a successful marriage: separation. Based on Genesis 2:24a— “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother”—this message highlights the need for couples to realign priorities, relationships, and family ties. A strong marriage requires an intentional shift, establishing a bond that is independent, rooted in love, and guided by God’s design.

In Part 3 of The Perfect Match sermon series, Dr. Stubblefield focuses on the significance of the word “therefore” in Genesis 2:24. This pivotal word serves as the bridge between God’s divine work and the blessing of biblical marriage. Up to this point, God has orchestrated every detail—forming, shaping, and providing—while the man simply rested. He awakened not through his own effort, but to the fulfillment of God’s grace and goodness. This foundational truth reminds us that every biblical marriage is built not on human striving, but on the work of God, who prepares and provides long before we even realize our need.

In Part 2 of The Perfect Match series, Dr. T. D. Stubblefield unpacks Genesis 2:21-23 under the theme The Design It Features. Biblical marriage is a reflection of the Divine Designer’s will and wisdom—crafted discriminately, deliberately, distinctively, and delightfully. This sermon is a timely and transformative journey through a precedent-setting passage that still speaks powerfully to our present day.

Genesis 2:18-25 is a foundational passage for any thoughtful and comprehensive discussion of biblical marriage. In this first installment of the sermon series The Perfect Match, Dr. T.D. Stubblefield explores The Desire That Fulfills. In the first marriage in human history, God placed within Adam the very desire He would later fulfill in the creation of Eve.

One Family Church, one of the St. Louis region’s fastest-growing congregations, is committed to “bringing people and God together in love.” During their monthly Staff Chapel, Dr. T. D. Stubblefield delivers an inspiring message, seamlessly weaving together the timeless truths of 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 and 4:1. His message encouraged the church’s key leaders and staff by highlighting the marks of a meaningful ministry.  Listen, reflect, and be blessed!