A Very Small Thing The opinions of men—whether criticism or praise—must never become the controlling authority of the believer's life.
 Paul addresses both dangers in this passage: 1 Corinthians 4:1–5: "Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. 4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. 5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God." Notice three areas of judgment in this passage. Others, Our's and The Lord - Whose Verdict Controls You? Have you recently decided to follow Jesus? Take your next step with Jesus: https://cbcgb.co.uk ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

📅Sunday 23rd August, 2026 » Morning Service 📣 The Believer's Stewardship In The Local Church 📙 Romans 12:1 🎤Preacher: Pastor Tim Lamaio

Paul teaches that rulers are God's servants to restrain evil and commend what is good. Our obedience is not mere fear of punishment, but a conscience-shaped submission to God's appointed order. Even imperfect governments are used to preserve civil peace and punish wrongdoing. Therefore, believers should do what is right, honor authority, and accept lawful restraint as part of living under God's providential rule.

This short twelve verse Psalm speaks eternal truths to each believer. God wants each believer to trust only in him, stated four different times in this short Psalm. King David was a great king, not because of his strength, but because of the strength God gave to him. Regardless of the enemies David faced, he always trusted in God and God always delivered him. David's strength, and our strength, comes from God, not from ourselves. May we all learn tis invaluable lesson: God is much greater than any of us, and it is excellent for each of us to trust God instead of ourselves. If we want final, conclusive victory, this victory will be because God, in his eternal power, has given victory to us.

Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof. Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell it to the generation following. (Psalms 48:12-13) ~~~~~ This sermon was preached at Bethel Chapel Luton on Lord's Day Morning. ~~~~~ After introduction, these three points are considered. *1/ Tell or number the Towers. 2/ Mark well her Bulwarks. 3/ Consider her Palaces.* **Sermon Summary:** The sermon expounds on Psalm 48, focusing on the security and eternal strength of the Church of God as depicted through the imagery of Zion's towers, bulwarks, and palaces. It identifies Jesus Christ as the primary tower of strength, refuge, and watchful foresight that protects believers from spiritual danger. The speaker argues that the Church's defences are not physical but theological, rooted in salvation, election, grace, and God's unbreakable promises. Emphasizing that the Church is secure despite external attacks or internal weaknesses, the message encourages believers to find their identity and safety solely in Christ. Finally, it calls the congregation to recognize this divine protection and pass the assurance of Zion's enduring faithfulness to future generations.

The sermon emphasizes that true salvation is impossible through human effort but possible only through God's grace, as illustrated by the rich young ruler in Matthew 19. It warns against hypocrisy and materialism, using the parables of the ten virgins and the rich man and Lazarus to show that outward religious appearance does not guarantee entry into heaven. The preacher stresses that genuine faith produces visible fruit in works and a lifestyle consistent with Christ. Believers are urged to remain spiritually prepared for Christ's return and to actively witness to others before the opportunity closes. Ultimately, eternal destiny is determined by one's acceptance of Jesus Christ during their earthly life.

The sermon centers on the historical and theological reality of Jesus Christ's resurrection, using the account in Matthew 28 to illustrate His victory over death. The preacher highlights the reactions of the Roman soldiers and the women at the tomb to emphasize the divine power behind the empty grave. Key appearances of the risen Lord to Mary Magdalene, the disciples on the road to Emmaus, and Thomas are examined to confirm His physical presence and identity. The message challenges listeners to trust in Christ as Savior rather than facing judgment, underscoring the certainty of eternal life for believers. Ultimately, the sermon calls for faith in the living Savior who remains faithful and present with His church.

Explore God's Work In Our Labor in this profound 2 Timothy 2 sermon. Discover how trusting God's work in ministry fuels our lasting faithfulness. The hard work of ministry is preeminently the careful communication of Scripture. In this verse by verse exposition of 2 Timothy 2, Pastor Richard Caldwell examines Paul's exhortation regarding the duties and limitations of a biblical teacher. We are reminded that while believers are called to diligence in spiritual stewardship, the ultimate results rest entirely on the grace of God. To grow in wisdom and insight, Christians must engage in the underestimated practice of biblical meditation. Dwelling deeply upon the truth of God's Word transforms our worldview and grounds our efforts in divine love. Ultimately, a faithful steward carries out their calling with the confident hope that God is actively working through His Word. As true servants do God's true work, we can rest knowing that God is sovereignly causing the growth. Key Biblical Takeaways: - The Preeminence of the Word: The primary task of any spiritual leader is to carefully and prayerfully communicate the authoritative truth of Scripture. - The Necessity of Divine Grace: While Christians must labor diligently in their callings, true spiritual growth and understanding are exclusively the work of God. - The Power of Biblical Meditation: Continually reflecting on biblical truth is a vital practice for gaining spiritual wisdom and maintaining a God honoring worldview. - The Assurance of Sovereign Love: Faithful ministry is anchored in the confidence that God lovingly works through His Word to build up the church.

The sermon explores the profound theological concept of reconciliation between sinful humanity and a holy God, using Chief Joseph's surrender as a historical parallel. It emphasizes that humans are naturally alienated and hostile toward God due to sin, making self-redemption impossible. Peace is established solely through the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross, where His blood paid the debt for sin and satisfied divine justice. Believers are called to cease their spiritual warfare by surrendering to Christ's authority and resting in the completed nature of His sacrifice. This reconciliation transforms believers from enemies into holy, unblameable recipients of God's grace and mercy.

How was your testimony this last week? God puts believers in difficult situations to shine brightly so He can receive more glory. Your attitude and behavior reflects the testimony that you bring to the honor of God.