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).

The sermon contrasts demanding attitudes toward God with the humility and respect shown to earthly parents. It argues that loving God should inspire believers to approach Him with gratitude rather than entitlement. The speaker illustrates this by comparing how children ask their parents for needs against how adults often demand from God. This perspective shifts prayer from a list of demands to a relational dialogue rooted in reverence. The message concludes with a prayer for wisdom and patience in teaching children about God's care.

This sermon introduces a new series on the book of Nehemiah, emphasizing the necessity of learning from history to avoid repeating past mistakes. The central theme focuses on Nehemiah's profound heart for God and his people, which compelled him to respond to Jerusalem's devastation with deep mourning and fervent prayer rather than immediate action. The preacher highlights four key truths—repent, return, rebuild, and revive—as essential steps for believers today to restore spiritual vitality in the church and society. By examining Nehemiah's prayer of confession and reverence, the message challenges Christians to prioritize a genuine, awe-filled relationship with God over superficial religious rituals. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a collective awakening and revival among believers who seek to honor God's holiness and advance His kingdom.

The birth of the Church is just the beginning. Let's look at how we continue to develop from this spiritual birth.

Many believers today are asking if a woman can be a pastor. When churches tolerate women preaching to men, they act in direct violation of 1 Timothy 2. This standard is rooted deeply in the creation order of Genesis, which serves as the permanent foundation for complementarianism and biblical gender roles. While the office of church elders is reserved for biblically qualified men, women have an absolutely vital role in the church. The Scriptures heavily emphasize the beauty of the Titus 2 model, where older women teach younger women in practical Christian living. True church health is measured by total submission to the Word of God rather than shifting cultural trends.