What is the world telling you right now? Most likely it’s not something from scripture, and probably isn’t even something that lines up with God’s heart for His creation. The Bible is being twisted or simply ignored. And personal agendas are being told to you day in and day out. Pastor Tom has something say about this, and he’ll be discussing the idea of theological liberalism in today’s message. He’ll also share why it’s important to address this, especially at this time of our nation and world history.

Message from Thomas Leake on October 17, 2020

Jesus didn’t come to walk with the rich and powerful, but the poor and needy. He came to serve not the important religious leaders, but to save the lost and sinful. He honored humble, repentant faith, and not prideful piety. He was generous and kind to those who were forgotten, passed over, and persecuted. Today, Pastor Tom will encourage you to examine how you treat the poor and the rich that you meet. Will you, like Jesus, sit with, honor, love, and serve those who seem least deserving of it?

Today, Pastor Tom is joined by a group of pastors all focused on expository preaching of God’s Word, who have joined together to form The Masters Fellowship Mid-Atlantic. This group of leaders is a great support to each another, bringing their ideas, community dynamics, and histories together to benefit all those who follow Christ. Today, you’ll hear from a few of these men, how this fellowship has been a blessing, as well as what challenges each face, and how you can be praying.

Many of us would be quick to agree that it’s much easier to recognize God’s faithfulness out of hindsight than it is in the midst of a struggle. Whether it’s financial, health, scandal, or otherwise, we sometimes lose sight of God’s goodness. In today’s message, Pastor Tom reflects on some of the struggles they faced in Hope Bible Church, and the growth that followed. In his study, you’ll learn how their determination to hold fast to sound doctrine and trust in the Lord carried them through difficulty.

When it comes to church discipline, many of us tend to get rather uncomfortable at the thought of shunning others. However, the Bible makes it very clear that those who are in habitual unrepentant sin are to be removed from the congregation. As Pastor Tom will teach you in his message today, church discipline played a powerful role in the growth at Hope Bible Church. In his study, you’ll learn that while it’s definitely uncomfortable, it’s no less necessary to take such measures.

Many of us would be quick to agree that the idea of starting a church would be just as terrifying as it is exciting. However, if the motives are pure, and the passion for God’s word and sound doctrine are present, there’s no reason for fear of failure. In today’s message, Pastor Tom reflects on the history of Hope Bible Church, and how it all started with a passion for the Word. In his message, you’ll learn how a zeal for truth and sound doctrine are crucial when it comes to laying the foundation of a congregation.

Important and special people have come to expect recognition and honor. They desire to be treated a certain way that fits with their selfish worldview. Often outside the church, and even within the church, they get exactly what they expect. Today, Pastor Tom will remind you of the qualities God desires and honors: generosity, humility, and selflessness. These qualities are what make you great in God’s kingdom. As you consider these qualities, begin to recognize them in others and seek to grow in this area yourself.

The world favors, admires, and idolizes the rich and powerful. They are looked up to by people who aspire to become like them. However, as Pastor Tom will point out today, as a believer in Jesus, your view should be the complete opposite. Instead, believers should value generosity, humility, integrity, and faith. You cannot love God while at the same time long for the power, wealth and position of the rich. Pastor Tom challenges you to examine what you prioritize and seek to honor. This becomes what you worship.

Message from Thomas Leake on August 22, 2020