It's easy to cut off a tree branch without thinking twice about it. But what if something was cut out of your life? Today on Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Mark Hamby is joined by Dr. Lew Sterrett. Together they unpack the meaning and importance of God's pruning in our own lives. We are never promised it will be painless, but when we are in the hands of the Master Gardener, we know there's a greater reward than anything we may lose. Join us today and discover how the price of pruning can lead to richer life in Jesus Christ.

The sermon encourages believers to persevere in their Christian walk by drawing inspiration from the heroes of faith listed in Hebrews 11. It interprets the 'cloud of witnesses' as a supportive audience that urges Christians to lay aside hindrances and sin while running with endurance. The preacher emphasises that Jesus is the ultimate focus and finisher of faith, having completed His own race successfully. Through illustrations from Old Testament figures like Abel, Enoch, and Moses, the message highlights the necessity of total commitment, obedience, and trust in God despite worldly pressures. The central call is to keep one's eyes fixed on Christ, ensuring that believers do not give up but press on toward the eternal prize.

The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it. (Psalms 68:11) ~~~~~ A Lord's Day Afternoon Service. ~~~~~ **Sermon Summary:** The sermon explores the divine origin of Scripture and preaching through the lens of Psalm 68:11, emphasizing that God actively gives His Word for various purposes. It highlights how providence aligns with biblical truth to provide assurance, direction, reproof, and comfort to believers. The text underscores the authority of the Great Commission and the inspiration of Scripture as historical facts grounded in Christ's redemptive work. By examining specific instances where God provided guidance or correction, the message encourages listeners to trust in the sovereign hand behind every preached word. Ultimately, it affirms that the Gospel is a gift of grace that saves and sustains those who receive it with faith.

The Father confirms that Jesus is His glorious Son and commands us to listen to Him.

The sermon explores Jesus' intercessory prayer in John 17, emphasizing the believer's future union with Christ and participation in His divine glory. It highlights that this eternal destiny is rooted in the Father's pre-temporal love for the Son, which is extended to all who believe. Pastor Bob contrasts the world's ignorance of God with the intimate knowledge believers possess through Jesus. By referencing Old Testament visions and New Testament promises, the message assures listeners of their glorified state and secure place in heaven. The central intent is to comfort and inspire faith by focusing on the unbreakable promise of eternal presence with Jesus. Scripture References: John 17:24-26 Psalm 96:1-10 2 Peter 1:4 1 Thessalonians 4:17 John 14:3 Isaiah 6:1-3 Ezekiel 1:1, 26-28 Revelation 4:1-3 Revelation 21:22-23 Matthew 17:1-8 Mark 9:2-8 Luke 9:28-36 Hebrews 5:8-10 1 Corinthians 6:17 Ephesians 1:3 John 16:33 John 14:2-3 Benediction Romans 15:5-6

This sermon relates the beginning of Paul and Barnabas' first missionary journey. From the calling of Christ's servants to their empowering, we see the Holy Spirit's intimate involvement in gospel missions. Accordingly, this text ought to inspire Christ's church to get involved in missions.

Do you know how to study the Bible? Can you interpret it the way the author originally intended? Join Pastor Steve as he equips you with the tools of inductive Bible study — and shows you what it means to "accurately handle the word of truth" (2 Tim.2:15).