Bellville SDA Church

In his sermon “Signs Along the Way,” Pastor Bob Mounter explores the signs of the last days, including wars, political and social unrest, economic uncertainty, natural disasters, violence, and religious deception. Drawing from Acts 2:1, 42 and 47, he emphasizes that a growing, healthy church must remain steadfast in biblical doctrine and genuine Christian fellowship. He explains that fellowship goes beyond attending church; it involves loving, supporting, praying for, and caring for one another. Pastor Mounter warns against spiritual complacency, encouraging the church to become an active, welcoming community where members and visitors feel loved and accepted. He challenges believers to remain faithful to biblical truth, guard against false religious teachings, and prepare spiritually for Christ’s return. Ultimately, the message reminds us that the signs of the times should inspire greater commitment to God, stronger relationships within the church, and renewed dedication to sharing the gospel and preparing others for the hope of eternal life with Jesus.

In his sermon, “The Cost of Doing Nothing,” Elder Shaun Lawrence reminds us that some of the greatest spiritual dangers do not come from deliberate rebellion, but from neglecting what God has called us to do. Using Hebrews 2:3 as his central text, he explains that just as the Titanic tragedy resulted partly from ignored warnings, our spiritual lives can suffer serious consequences when we continually postpone obedience. Through the examples of Moses, Eli, David, Haggai, the parable of the talents and the rich young ruler, he highlights the dangers of neglected obedience, responsibilities, misplaced priorities and incomplete surrender. He emphasises that God's patience should never be mistaken for approval, and that delayed obedience can have lasting consequences. The message concludes with an urgent appeal to examine our lives, recognise areas of spiritual neglect and respond to God's call today rather than waiting for another opportunity, so that we may remain faithful and ready for Jesus' return.

In his sermon, “Knowledge, Power and Responsibility,” Dr Gerald T. du Preez explores 2 Peter 1:1–15, emphasising that knowledge and education are valuable, but they must be guided by godliness, goodness and Christian character. While education opens doors and provides opportunities, true wisdom comes from knowing Jesus personally and allowing His divine power to transform our lives. The speaker develops three central principles: Know, Grow and Show – know whose you are through a personal relationship with Christ, grow in the character of Jesus by developing qualities such as faith, self-control, perseverance and love, and show your faith through integrity, honesty, service and responsible living. He further highlights that leadership and influence are sacred trusts that require transparency, accountability and faithful stewardship. Ultimately, Christians are called to use their knowledge, abilities and positions not to exercise power over others, but to serve, reflect Christ's character and demonstrate His love in every area of life.

In his sermon, “There’s No Place Like Home,” Pastor Cordell Liebrandt reminds the congregation that the Christian journey is a journey of faith toward our eternal home with Jesus. Through the symbolism of the Lord’s Supper, he highlights three key truths: the price of our homecoming, the promise of our homecoming, and the celebration that awaits us. Jesus’ sacrifice at Calvary paid the price for our redemption, making it possible for humanity to be reconciled with God and freed from the consequences of sin. Through communion, believers remember Christ’s death while holding firmly to His promise to return and take them to His Father’s house, where they will dwell with Him forever. Pastor Liebrandt emphasizes that this promised home is not defined by earthly riches or splendour, but by the presence of Jesus, the restoration of relationships, and the end of suffering, death, and tears. He encourages the church to remain faithful and to support one another as they await the great reunion and the marriage supper of the Lamb, when God will make all things new. The sermon concludes with a message of hope and assurance: because Jesus has promised to return, we can confidently look forward to being home at last, home with Jesus, and home forever.

In his message, “New Birth – Baptism,” Pastor Bob Mounter emphasises that biblical baptism is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ and a commitment to a transformed life. Drawing from John 3:1–7, Matthew 28:19–20, and other scriptures, he explains that individuals should be taught the truth, believe in Christ, repent of their sins, and then be baptised by immersion, following the example of Jesus. Baptism symbolises burial and resurrection, marking the beginning of a new life in Christ in which one's attitudes, actions, and lifestyle are progressively changed. He also highlights that rebaptism may be appropriate when a person gains a clearer understanding of biblical truth, and encourages believers not to allow past mistakes, personal struggles, age, or feelings of unworthiness to prevent them from responding to God's call. Pastor Mounter especially urges parents and guardians to support their children in making their own decisions for Jesus, reminding the congregation that salvation is a gift of grace and that Christ lovingly invites everyone to follow Him. He concludes with a heartfelt appeal for all who feel the Holy Spirit calling them to surrender their lives to Jesus and take the step of baptism without delay, trusting in Christ's promise to remain with His followers always.

Elder Ray Terry Sr. delivered an uplifting message focused on the glorious return of Jesus Christ and the hope of the resurrection. He encouraged the congregation to allow God to rekindle the spiritual flame within them, strengthen their faith, and renew their hope in Christ’s soon coming. Drawing from passages such as Isaiah 25:9, 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17, 1 Corinthians 15:51, Revelation 21:4, and Revelation 14:12, he vividly described the day when Jesus will return with the sound of a trumpet, the dead in Christ will rise, and the living saints will be transformed and caught up together to meet the Lord in the air.The sermon emphasized the joy of being reunited with loved ones who have died in Christ and the end of suffering, death, sorrow, and disappointment. Elder Terry reminded listeners that heaven is beyond anything human beings can imagine and that God has prepared an eternal home for those who love Him and remain faithful. He concluded with a passionate call to remain spiritually awake, faithful, and ready for Jesus’ return, looking forward to the day when believers can declare with joy, “What a day!”

The Pathfinder Day presentation focused on the importance of listening to God’s voice and responding through faith and obedience. Using the distinction between hearing and listening, the message emphasized that hearing is passive, while listening requires intentional attention, understanding, and response. The story of Samuel illustrated that young people can hear and respond to God, reminding Pathfinders that they are never too young to be used by Him.The presentation highlighted several biblical examples of young people who listened and responded to God, including Samuel, David, Josiah, the servant girl who helped Naaman, Timothy, Mary, and Joseph. Their stories demonstrated that age is not a barrier to God’s calling and that genuine listening must ultimately lead to obedience and action. Parents, mentors, teachers, pastors, and Pathfinder leaders were encouraged to guide young people toward developing their own relationship with God rather than simply depending on others to hear God for them.The message then focused on Caleb, drawing three lessons from his life: Focus, Faithfulness, and Fitness. Caleb kept his focus on the greatness of God rather than the size of the obstacles, remained faithful to God even when others were afraid, and maintained strength and readiness to serve throughout his life. Pathfinders were encouraged to remain spiritually, mentally, and physically strong while keeping their eyes on God.The central challenge was summed up in the question: “Are we listening?” The congregation was encouraged to respond like Samuel—“Speak, Lord, Your servant is listening”and like Mary, Joseph, and Caleb, to move from listening to obedience and service. The presentation concluded with a call for young people and adults alike to recognize that God is still calling today, and to respond willingly: “Here I am, O Lord, send me.”

In this inspiring message, Elder Sherwin Dreyer challenges us to embrace our calling as God’s chosen people and witnesses. Through the theme of OneVoice27, he reminds us that the gospel is not something to keep to ourselves—it is good news meant to be shared. Drawing from Revelation 21:5, 1 Peter 2:9–10, Matthew 5:14, and other passages, we are encouraged to share our personal experiences of God’s grace, bring hope to those living in darkness, and allow Christ’s love to compel us into action. The question is not simply, “Do I know the gospel?” but “What am I doing with the gospel?”

In this powerful message, Dr. Leander Chalice reflects on the two thieves crucified alongside Jesus, Gestus and Dismas, and the life changing choices they made at the cross. Through the story of Dismas, we are reminded that God’s grace, forgiveness, and salvation are available even in our final moments. The sermon challenges us to examine our own lives, respond to the Holy Spirit, and make a decision for Christ today. Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.

In this powerful sermon, “We Are Not Doing Right,” Br Prosper Dlodlo explores the story of the four lepers in 2 Kings 7:9 (NKJV) and draws a challenging parallel to the mission of the church today. The lepers recognized that they could not keep the good news and provision they had discovered to themselves, declaring, “We are not doing right” and choosing to go and tell others. The sermon challenges believers to examine whether religious activity has replaced a genuine relationship with God and whether the church has become focused on internal programs while neglecting its God-given mission to reach the world. Through the examples of Samaria, Noah, the three angels’ messages, and the Great Commission, we are reminded that God calls His people to move, serve, preach, and share the gospel. Br Dlodlo emphasizes that God does not require perfect people or abundant resources—He needs **willing hearts**. As we step out in faith and obedience, God promises to accompany us and work through us. The message concludes with a powerful appeal to stop remaining silent, commit ourselves to God’s mission, and “go and tell” the world that Jesus has paid it all and that salvation is available in Him.