This sermon explores Psalm 32 to illustrate the profound blessing of divine forgiveness and the necessity of honest confession. The preacher contrasts the spiritual and physical torment of hiding sin with the immediate relief found in acknowledging transgressions before God. Key theological themes include justification by faith alone, the imputation of Christ's righteousness, and the rejection of self-deception. The message urges listeners to seek God during this time of grace, warning against the stubbornness that leads to judgment while offering assurance through the gospel promises.

Simply calling ourselves Christian or even doing Christian things is not what matters most to God. Christian language nor Christian activities are the mark of true Christianity. Listen to find out what is.

Sunday Evening Description: Sunday Evening Service – August 2, 2026 Chaplain Joe Willis Sermon: Being the Real Deal Scripture: 2 Tim. 3:5 Offertory: "To God Be The Glory" Lyrics by Fanny Crosby; Music by William H. Doane, Arr. by Mac Lynch. Copyright 1996 by The Wilds. Special Music: "The Haven of Rest" Lyrics by H.L. Gilmoure; Music by George.D. Moore; Arranged by Elijah Bennett

Pastor Matt Turkington explains the doctrine of sanctification, emphasizing that God is faithful to completely sanctify those whom He saves, according to 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24. The text highlights that the God of peace justifies believers and subsequently purifies them entirely. Sanctification is a gracious, internal work of transformation rather than mere behavioral modification, rooted in the believer's new nature in Christ. Christians can be assured that because God is faithful, He will preserve them blameless until the return of Jesus Christ. This theological truth encourages believers to rest in God's sovereign work while pursuing holiness through the means of grace.

How can believers remain confident when Scripture contains difficult passages? By patiently trusting God's unified witness to Jesus Christ, believers grow in assurance through the consistent testimony of all Scripture rather than isolated proof texts.

John 10:7-10 — Out in the hills, a shepherd's fold had no gate. So the shepherd laid his own body across the gap. That's the door Jesus says He is. This expository preaching message unpacks the second of three "doors" in John 10:1-10 — moving from Christ as the shepherd who enters correctly, to Christ as the door itself. Using the countryside sheepfold, where a shepherd's own body became the literal gate against wolves and thieves, this sermon traces the "I AM" claim of Jesus back to the burning bush and forward into the promise of abundant life. If you've ever been told your assurance of salvation depends on your performance, your tradition, or a preacher's approval, this message speaks directly to that spiritual abuse. The sermon names the "thieves and robbers" of Matthew 23 — religious systems that devour the defenseless — and contrasts them with the Good Shepherd, who gave everything rather than take anything. This verse-by-verse exposition of John 10:7-10 covers: - The three different doors in John 10:1-10, and why conflating them causes confusion - The countryside sheepfold where the shepherd himself was the only door - How Bethlehem's shepherds "abiding in the field" connect to this image - Why salvation comes one individual at a time, not by family or nation - The danger of traditions that replace the door as the way of salvation - Why giving to get a blessing is not biblical giving - The "I AM" statements of John and their roots in Exodus 3 - What "life more abundantly" does and does not promise

The sermon expounds on Psalm 23:5, portraying the Lord as a gracious host who prepares a lavish table for His people amidst their enemies. It highlights three key aspects of divine provision: the prepared table symbolizing spiritual and temporal sustenance, the anointing with oil representing honour and refreshing, and the overflowing cup indicating abundant grace that exceeds human expectation. The preacher emphasizes that believers are honoured guests invited to feast on Christ's love and faithfulness rather than relying on self-righteousness. This imagery assures Christians of God's unpreventable care and sufficiency in all circumstances, countering complaints of scarcity with gratitude for His bountiful gifts. The message concludes by urging a response of generous giving and ceaseless praise to the Lord who supplies every need.

The sermon explores Psalm 27 as a reflection of the Christian life, moving between confident trust in God's protection and desperate pleas for deliverance during times of distress. It emphasizes that believers must anchor their confidence in the Lord as their light, salvation, and stronghold rather than in themselves or worldly circumstances. The preacher highlights the necessity of patience, urging the congregation to wait on the Lord actively through sanctification and spiritual growth amidst life's difficulties. By examining David's journey from fear to faith, the message encourages listeners to seek God's presence above all else and to remain steadfast in their faith despite external opposition. Ultimately, it calls for a deep reliance on God's promises, assuring believers that He remains faithful even when His timing seems slow.