Chapel at Cedarville

In today’s chapel message, Dr. Thomas White taught from Joshua 22, highlighting key lessons on faithfulness to God and how we can apply these principles in our daily lives. He began by emphasizing the importance of commendation before command, a principle seen in Joshua's address to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh. Before giving them commands, Joshua commends them for their obedience and faithfulness, a model for us in our own relationships and leadership opportunities (Joshua 22:2–3). Dr. White explained that it’s vital to encourage others before we challenge them, fostering an atmosphere of respect and understanding. 

Dr. White then focused on the five commands found in Joshua 22:5 that believers should strive to live by. These five commands encapsulate the passionate pursuit of faithfulness to God: 

1. Love the Lord Your God – Our love for God should be our first and greatest priority. 
2. Walk in All His Ways – We need to live a life of obedience to God's will, following His guidance in the Scriptures. 
3. Keep His Commandments – We must live in accordance with God's Word, being faithful to His laws. 
4. Cling to Him – In difficult times, when life presents challenges, we must not run from God but draw closer to Him, clinging to His promises and refuge. 
5. Serve Him With All Your Heart and Soul – Our devotion to God should be wholehearted, involving every part of our being. 

Dr. White also recounted the story of the misunderstanding between the tribes after they built an altar near the Jordan River. This act sparked a potential conflict because the Israelites already had a central altar for worship. However, the tribes explained that their intentions were not to rebel but to create a symbol of unity for future generations (Joshua 22:10–34). Dr. White noted that this situation reminded us of the importance of understanding both sides of a story and responding with grace and truth (Proverbs 18:17, Matthew 18:15). The misunderstanding was resolved through open, face-to-face communication, emphasizing that such discussions are often the best way to clear up conflicts and avoid division. 

In conclusion, Dr. White called the congregation to passionately pursue faithfulness to God, following the commands found in Joshua 22:5. He reminded us that our relationship with God requires not only love but also active pursuit, obedience, and wholehearted service. Faithfulness to God is not passive but a continual, zealous effort in all aspects of our lives. 

Life Lessons:  

1. Commend before you command (Joshua 22:2–3)  
2. Two sides to most stories (Proverbs 18:17)  
3. Face to Face discussions is usually better (Matthew 18:15)  
4. Reactions Matter (Proverbs 15:1)  
5. Speechless monuments don’t witness effectively. 

In today’s chapel service, SGA Chaplain Trey Storr preached a powerful sermon centered on the name of God: YHWH Tsidkenu, which translates to "The Lord is our righteousness." Drawing from Jeremiah 23:1-6, Storr reminded us that while earthly leaders often fail, God Himself, as our Shepherd, will never abandon His people. 

Storr began by addressing the harsh words spoken by the prophet Jeremiah against the shepherds of Israel. These leaders, who were supposed to lead God's people with righteousness and justice, failed miserably. Instead of guiding the people toward God, the kings of Israel and Judah led them into idolatry and spiritual ruin. In this sense, the shepherds failed in their calling, ultimately bringing destruction upon God's people. 

A shepherd, in biblical times, was expected to care deeply for his flock — leading them to safety, providing for their needs, and protecting them from harm. This image of a good shepherd was meant to be a reflection of how the kings should have led the nation. But instead, Israel's kings destroyed the people they were entrusted to lead. 

This failure set the stage for God's response. As Storr explained, the Lord declared that He would not leave His people in their brokenness. He Himself would be the Good Shepherd. God promised that a time would come when He would bring His people back from exile, restore them, and guide them in righteousness. This promise finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the true and ultimate Good Shepherd. 

Storr emphasized that while we still experience suffering, persecution, and exile in this broken world, we can take comfort in knowing that we have a Good Shepherd. In John 10:11, Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” This is a profound assurance for Christians today. No matter the hardships we face, we are not alone. Jesus is with us, guiding us, protecting us, and leading us toward righteousness. 

The sermon also reminded us that our focus should not be on ourselves or our efforts, but on the work of God that has already been accomplished for us. As Storr said, “The call is not to do something but to remember the work of our God that’s already been done for us.” This truth is encapsulated in the name YHWH Tsidkenu — the Lord is our righteousness. In our failures, we can rest in the righteousness of God, which He provides through Christ. 

As Christians, we may still face struggles and challenges, but we are not without hope. As Storr concluded, "Although we struggle on this cursed earth, we can marvel at His beauty today just like we will for the rest of eternity." We look forward to a day when we will be in the presence of our Shepherd, marveling at His beauty forever. 

Today, we are reminded to look to the Good Shepherd, who has already accomplished the work of our salvation. He is with us now, and He will return to bring His people home. What a comfort this is in the midst of our trials! 

Living with Self-Control: A Call to Young Men

In today’s world, we are constantly surrounded by distractions that undermine our ability to live disciplined, godly lives. The culture pushes self-expression, indulgence, and instant gratification, leaving little room for self-control. But as Christians, we are called to stand out in a world full of temptation and complacency. Titus 2:6-8 speaks directly to the importance of self-control, especially for young men, and challenges us to live with purpose and integrity.

Key Points from Titus 2:6-8

Self-Control as a Foundation for Godliness

Paul writes that young men are to be "sensible" or self-controlled, and that self-control is vital for godliness. Without it, we cannot pursue Christ’s calling on our lives. Self-control enables us to love deeply, making selfless decisions even when it’s hard. True love costs us something — it requires us to push past laziness, selfishness, and distraction.

Encouragement in a Culture of Distraction

Our world is saturated with distractions like technology, social media, entertainment, and more — all designed to keep us chained to our desires and impulses. Paul reminds us that we need people around us who will encourage and challenge us to live with self-control. Encouragement is more than a pep talk — it’s about reminding one another that we were made for more than what the world offers. As believers, we are called to pursue higher purposes, even when it’s difficult.

Exemplifying Self-Control

Paul’s call to young men is not just to learn self-control but to live it out in a way that others can see. Self-control isn’t just about avoiding bad habits — it’s about forming positive patterns that reflect Christ. How we manage our time, our anger, our relationships, and our appetites should be an example to others. Whether it’s choosing to read your Bible before grabbing your phone in the morning or resisting the urge to gossip, our lives should model the discipline that comes from a love for Christ.

Self-Control in the Service of Love

Ultimately, self-control isn’t about self-mastery for its own sake. It’s about spirit mastery — being controlled by Christ for the sake of others. The Bible shows us that self-control is an expression of our love for God and others. When we are self-controlled, we reflect Christ’s love, which was demonstrated perfectly on the cross.

Quote: "It’s not about self-mastery; it’s about spirit mastery. Controlled by Christ, for the sake of others."

Conclusion

In a world that values indulgence over discipline, it’s easy to lose sight of the importance of self-control. But as young men and women, we are called to rise above the culture of laziness and self-centeredness. By following the example of Christ and living with self-control, we can make a lasting impact on those around us. Let us encourage one another, model godly living, and embody a disciplined life that honors God and reflects His love to the world.

Today in chapel, Trevin Wax from the North American Mission Board led us through Titus 2:11–15. As Christians, we are called to live a life that reflects the grace of God, but this is not just an add-on to our everyday existence; it’s a complete transformation of our identity. In Titus, the Apostle Paul presents a powerful vision of how grace and godliness are intertwined in the life of a believer. Paul encourages us to live with a mindset of self-denial and to embrace the grace that leads to godliness — a lifestyle that is driven by grace and directed toward glory.

Wax reminds us that "the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions" (2:11–12). Here, worldliness is defined as anything that makes sin feel normal or acceptable. We live in a world that normalizes sin, but as believers, we are called to renounce it. Saying “no” to godlessness is as vital as saying “yes” to godliness. It’s not just about avoiding sin — it’s about choosing to live a life that honors God. Wax says that “Godliness requires constant killing [of sin].” When we embrace grace, we also embrace the call to live differently and to say no to the things that don't align with God's purpose for our lives.

Some people view Christianity as something that can simply be added to their life, like an accessory or a hobby. But the truth is, Christianity is a relationship with the One who gave His life for us. We are called to live for the One who died for us, not to add Him to our busy lives as an afterthought. This is why it is essential to pray daily, “Lord, give me opportunities to deny myself today,” because self-denial is at the heart of true discipleship.

Godliness is not driven by mere effort or discipline — it is driven by grace. The Spirit forms us by grace, and it is this same grace that empowers us to live godly lives. You cannot separate God’s gift of grace from His call to godliness. The grace of God is not just the means of our salvation; it is also the power that enables us to live for His glory. When we understand this, we realize that living a godly life is not just about following rules but entering into a dynamic, life-changing relationship with God.

One practical way to make godliness a habit is by connecting it to your identity. If you want a habit to stick, you need to see it as part of who you are. When we realize that we are new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17), we begin to see godliness as an expression of our new identity. We live not out of obligation, but out of the desire to honor the One who loved us first.

The Christian life is not just about what we do but about who we are in Christ. As we reflect on Titus 2:11–15, let us remember that godliness is driven by grace and directed toward glory. Let us pray for the strength to deny ourselves, to say no to worldly passions, and to live for the glory of God.

Living in the Power of God’s Grace: Lessons from Paul’s Farewell in Acts 20

In Acts 20:17-38, we find Paul’s farewell speech to the Ephesian elders, a powerful moment that marks the end of his ministry as a free man. This passage gives us deep insights into Paul’s character, his commitment to the Gospel, and his pastoral heart for the church. As we reflect on these verses, we not only learn about Paul’s journey but also about our own role in God’s redemptive plan.

Paul’s Mission and Commitment

At this point in Acts, Paul is on his way to Jerusalem, despite knowing that suffering and persecution await him. In verse 22, he says, “And now, behold, I am going to Jerusalem, constrained by the Spirit, not knowing what will happen to me there.” This shows Paul’s unwavering commitment to God’s call, even when the path ahead is unclear and difficult. Paul’s courage and perseverance challenge us to reflect on our own commitment to God’s mission.

Paul’s Model of Ministry

Paul’s message to the Ephesian elders is full of exhortations about the role of pastors and church leaders. In verse 28, Paul calls them to “pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.” He reminds them of the immense value placed upon the church, which was “obtained with [God’s] own blood.” (v. 28). This speaks to the sacrificial love that Jesus demonstrated in His death on the cross.

Facing Challenges and False Shepherds

Paul also warns of the threats the church will face, specifically from “wolves” who will rise up within the church to distort the truth (v. 29-30). This call to vigilance is just as relevant today as it was then. False teachings and distractions can easily pull us away from the truth of the Gospel. Paul’s plea to the Ephesian elders is clear: stay faithful to the Word of God and guard against falsehood.

Encouragement for the Church Today

Paul’s words are not just for the Ephesian elders — they are for all of us. In verse 32, he commends them (and us) to “God and to the word of His grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.” The Gospel of grace, the message Paul faithfully preached, is the means by which we are strengthened and sustained in our faith.

Action Step:

Reflect on the significance of God’s grace in your life. Are there areas where you need to turn back to the Gospel and let its power reshape your heart? Just as Paul was faithful to his mission, we are called to stay faithful to the Gospel and share it with others. Closing Thought: As we look to the future, let’s follow Paul’s example of being faithful to the Word of God, knowing that no matter how challenging the journey, God’s grace will always sustain us. In the words of Revelation 12:11, “They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Press on, for God’s grace is enough.

In today’s chapel message, Sam Allberry, Associate Pastor of Immanuel Nashville, took us through James 3:13-18, offering insight into the distinction between true and false wisdom. James highlights a crucial point for every believer: True wisdom is not measured by external accomplishments but by the posture of the heart and the fruit it produces. 

James begins by addressing the common human tendency to seek wisdom from those with the loudest voices or the most polished appearances. In James 3, he challenges this approach, noting that while many claim to be wise, their conduct, particularly their use of the tongue, reveals otherwise. Wisdom, James teaches, is not found in skillful speech but in humble, righteous living. 

True Wisdom is Marked by Meekness 

One of the first markers of true wisdom James points to is meekness. Wisdom, as James explains, is not self-assertive or proud. Rather, it is humble, shaped by an understanding of the Gospel. As believers grow in their knowledge of Christ, they should increasingly exhibit meekness. True wisdom does not seek to elevate oneself above others but seeks to serve and love others with humility. A wise person, therefore, is marked by humility — not by a desire to be seen as wise, but by a genuine heart of meekness. 

True Wisdom is Seen in Good Conduct 

Alongside meekness, good conduct is a key indicator of true wisdom. James emphasizes that wisdom produces a life consistent with the gospel. A wise person lives out their faith in their actions, displaying integrity and a heart aligned with God’s will. True wisdom comes from above and manifests in lives marked by goodness and peace, not disorder or strife. 

The Danger of Selfish Ambition 

James warns against the destructive nature of selfish ambition. When wisdom is driven by personal gain or the desire to outshine others, it leads to disorder and every evil practice. Selfish ambition, James asserts, reveals a lack of true wisdom. The believer should not seek success at the expense of others, nor boast about achievements. True wisdom, on the other hand, seeks the good of others and does not use others as stepping stones. 

True Wisdom Brings Peace 

Perhaps the most striking characteristic of true wisdom is its commitment to peace. James describes true wisdom as peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy, and impartial. A wise person does not sow division but seeks harmony. In contrast to the wisdom that leads to strife and disorder, Godly wisdom fosters peace and reconciliation. It reflects the character of Christ, who is gentle, merciful, and willing to extend grace. 

Seeking Wisdom from God 

Finally, James reminds us that true wisdom is not something we can attain on our own. It is a gift from God. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God,” James says, “who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him” (James 1:5). Wisdom, therefore, comes from a humble heart seeking God’s guidance. As believers, we are called to continually seek more of God in our lives, asking Him for wisdom that reflects His character. 

In conclusion, true wisdom, as outlined in James 3, is not defined by worldly success or eloquent speech. It is marked by meekness, good conduct, peace, and a heart full of mercy. Let us seek this wisdom from above, living lives that honor God and reflect His peace to the world around us. 

The Power of Words: Taming the Tongue

Words have immense power. They shape our world, guide our actions, and reflect our hearts. The book of James speaks extensively about the tongue and its ability to build up or destroy. In James 3:1-12, we see that the tongue, though small, has the power to steer our lives, for better or for worse. Let’s explore the insights from this passage and how they can guide our speech toward life-giving words.

1. Words Matter — The Responsibility of Teaching (James 3:1-2)

James begins by warning those who presume to be teachers. While teaching the Word of God is a noble calling, it comes with significant responsibility. Those who teach have the potential to influence others greatly — either for good or harm. James reminds us that we all stumble in many ways, and controlling our tongues is one of the greatest challenges. The ability to bridle our speech is a mark of genuine Christian faith (James 1:26). It’s a reminder for all of us that what we say, whether in conversation, a post, or a text message, can have far-reaching consequences.

2. The Tongue is Powerful (James 3:3-4)

James uses the analogies of a bit in a horse’s mouth and a rudder on a ship to illustrate how something so small can control something so much larger. Our tongues, though small in comparison to the rest of our bodies, have the ability to steer the direction of our lives. Think about it: How often have words shaped your day or influenced a key decision? Our speech has the power to guide, direct, and influence. We should be mindful of how we use it.

3. The Tongue is Destructive (James 3:5-6)

James doesn't hold back in his description of the tongue’s potential for destruction. Just as a small spark can ignite a raging forest fire, our words can cause significant damage. Whether spoken or typed, our words can hurt, poison, and leave scars that last a lifetime. James compares the tongue to poison — it stains our whole bodies and creates lasting harm. This destructive capacity is not just a minor issue; it’s a serious, hellish danger.

4. The Tongue Reveals the Heart (James 3:9-10)

Jesus teaches that “out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). The words we speak reflect what is inside us. When harsh words come out, the problem doesn’t lie with the other person — rather, it’s a reflection of what’s in our own hearts. We must examine ourselves regularly and ask, “Why did I say that?” or “Why was I harsh?” Our words are a mirror of our hearts.

5. What Can We Do?

While it’s impossible to fully tame the tongue on our own, with God’s help, we can learn to use it for good. James acknowledges the difficulty in controlling the tongue, but he also reminds us that what is impossible for man is wonderfully possible for God. Jesus used His words perfectly, and with the Holy Spirit’s help, we can use our tongues to bless others instead of cursing them. As Colossians 4:6 urges, let our words be “seasoned with salt,” meaning that they should bring flavor, encouragement, and life to others.

Today in chapel, Dr. Thomas White continued to walk through the book of Joshua. As we reflect on Joshua 20–21, we discover key aspects of God's character — His justice, holiness, and faithfulness — and how He demonstrates His care for His people in both tangible and spiritual ways.

In Joshua 20, we see God’s concern for justice through the establishment of cities of refuge. These cities were places where someone who unintentionally caused the death of another could flee to find safety from vengeance (v. 3). This demonstrates that God values justice for both the innocent and the guilty.

Notice the characteristics of God’s justice:

Accessible: The cities were strategically placed so that no one was too far away from a place of refuge (v. 7–8). This reflects the accessibility of God's justice for all His people. No one is too far from God's justice.

Values Life: God’s justice does not seek retribution for the sake of revenge but for the preservation of life. The cities of refuge were not for those who intentionally harmed others, but for those who committed acts without malicious intent. God's justice promotes life and righteousness.

Due Process: It was important that the person seeking refuge was genuinely innocent (v. 6). This shows that God’s justice is thorough and demands accuracy, ensuring that due process is followed.

Universal: God's justice is for everyone. It is not restricted to a certain group, but accessible to all who need it.

One day, we will see true justice when Christ returns and all wrongs are righted. Until then, God’s justice is a gift to His people, ensuring that fairness and righteousness prevail in a broken world.

In Joshua 21, we learn that God values holiness when He provides cities for the Levites, the tribe set apart for His service. These cities were spread across the nation of Israel, ensuring that no one was far from a Levite (v. 41). This distribution reflects God’s desire for His people to be close to His presence, worship, and guidance.

The Levites were not given a portion of land as the other tribes were, because their inheritance was in serving God (Numbers 18:20). Their purpose was to lead others in worship and spiritual matters. Through the Levites’ proximity, the people were reminded of God’s holiness and how to live in accordance with His will.

Finally, in Joshua 21:43–45, we see the culmination of God's care for His people in the fulfillment of His promises. The land He had promised to the Israelites was given to them, just as He had said it would be. Every word of God’s promise was kept. God’s faithfulness is a constant theme throughout Scripture, and we can trust that He keeps every single promise He makes.

As we reflect on God's justice, holiness, and faithfulness, we can trust that He will continue to care for us in the same way. In our lives, God’s character remains the same: accessible, life-giving, and trustworthy.

Let us remember that, just as the Israelites were called to follow God’s ways, we too are called to live justly, walk in holiness, and trust in God's faithfulness. He is a God who cares deeply for His people, and His promises are sure.

Sophomore Class Chaplain Daniel Shearer shared a powerful message during chapel about finding true rest for our souls, drawing from Matthew 11:25–30. In a world that often feels overwhelming, it's easy to think that if we had more time or fewer responsibilities, our problems would disappear. We often find ourselves caught up in the busyness of life, using stress or fatigue as excuses to neglect spiritual practices like Bible reading or attending church. Daniel reminded us that the real solution isn't more time or less work but finding rest in Jesus Christ. 

The main idea of his message was how we can find rest for our souls through Jesus, emphasizing five key points: Come to the King, Come as children, Come with your burdens, Come and take, and Take and rest. 

First, Daniel highlighted the importance of coming to Jesus, the King. In Matthew 11:27, Jesus claims equality with the Father, revealing that He is sovereign over all things. "Just thinking about who He is as King is enough for us to come to Him," Daniel said. Jesus is not only all-powerful but also all-loving, offering an open invitation to anyone seeking rest. Daniel emphasized that Jesus has the authority to meet all of our needs and that we are called to surrender our entire lives to Him, not just parts of them. "You are desperate, in need, and weak on your own," Daniel reminded us, urging us to come to Christ because only He can satisfy the deepest longings of our souls. 

Next, Daniel focused on coming to Jesus as children. Jesus calls us to approach Him with the simplicity and trust of a child. He is not a distant, harsh ruler but a loving Father who cares for us deeply. In the same way that a child runs to their father for comfort, we are to run to Jesus in our times of need. 

Daniel also encouraged us to bring our burdens to Jesus. Life can be full of stress, anxiety, and sorrow, but Jesus calls us to bring these burdens to Him. Jesus, full of compassion, offers us hope and peace in exchange for our weariness. Daniel challenged us to consider where we go when we feel burdened — do we turn to Jesus or seek distractions like social media or entertainment? "We come because Christ called," he reminded us, encouraging us to lean on Jesus rather than seeking temporary escapes. 

Finally, Daniel spoke about coming to Jesus to take rest. The rest Jesus offers is not physical but spiritual. It is the deep assurance and hope that we find in the Gospel. Circumstances may not change immediately, but rest for our souls can be found in Christ alone. "Rest for your souls is the assurance and hope that we can find in Christ," Daniel said. When we draw near to Jesus, He gives us the peace that surpasses all understanding, even when life’s challenges remain. 

True rest is found not in escaping our responsibilities but in coming to Jesus with all of our burdens. As we turn to Him, we can experience the rest and peace that only He can provide. 

In today’s chapel sermon, Nathan Lino, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church in Forney, TX, focused on Matthew 4:19: “And he said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.’” He emphasized that Jesus' statement is both a calling and a command, filled with urgency. This invitation to follow Christ and become "fishers of men" is not optional — it’s a divine directive for all believers.

Pastor Lino explained that in the Old Testament, the metaphor of fishing was used by God to describe His judgment on sin, as seen in Ezekiel 29:4-10. However, when Jesus calls His disciples to become fishers of men, it’s a transformation that moves beyond judgment to salvation. The purpose of fishing in the New Covenant is to bring others to Christ and lead them to eternal life, not to pronounce judgment. This mission is central to a Christian’s life, reflecting the urgent need to reach others with the Gospel.

He stressed that becoming a fisher of men is not something we can do on our own. It’s not a skill we can develop by our own effort; it is something God does in us. Pastor Lino pointed out that Jesus didn’t say, “You will become fishers of men by your own strength.” Instead, He said, “I will make you fishers of men.” It is God who transforms us, equipping us to share the Gospel and lead others to salvation. If God could change someone like John Mark, who was once unreliable and fearful, He can certainly transform anyone into a fisher of men.

Pastor Lino reminded the student body of God’s deep love for every person. The Gospel is not just a message of salvation but one that demonstrates the love of God, who created each individual with purpose. “You were not a chance of fate,” he said. “When you were conceived, God loved you.” This love is the foundation for the calling to become fishers of men — Jesus’ mission to save souls is rooted in His love for humanity.

Finally, Pastor Lino encouraged believers to respond to the call with urgency. Repentance means turning away from the old way of life and committing to follow Jesus, embracing all that is true. He reminded everyone that this calling is not just for the disciples in the Bible; it’s for us today. Jesus’ ultimate purpose for our lives is to become fishers of men — sharing His love and truth with a world in desperate need of salvation.