fear on SermonAudio

Scripture: 1 Peter 1:13-21 Text: 1 Peter 1:17-21 Sermon Living as Redeemed Children of the Father 1. In holy fear 2. Lost in wonder 3. Focused on Christ

"Those who have tried to reach Mohammedans with the gospel message and who are in the midst of the work, do not call for retreat, but for reinforcements and advance. They know that in this mighty conflict we have nothing to fear save our own sloth and inactivity." Samuel Zwemer's words echo Paul's own declaration in 2 Corinthians 4:1-6, "having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart." Whether by rejection or affliction, the mission has countless reasons for discouragement. And discouragement can lead to compromise. But we advance, determined to change neither message nor method.

Ebed-melech heard that Jeremiah had been left in a dungeon, and he brought the matter to the king even though powerful men were responsible. His response shows us how trust in God leads to truthful speech, practical action, and tender care for someone in danger. From Jeremiah 38:7-13, this message challenges the fear that keeps known duties undone and points us toward the next faithful step. Doing right may carry a cost, but silence and delay can leave real needs unmet. Scripture References: Jeremiah 38:7-13 James 4:17

Who Can This Be? Psalm 107:23-32, Luke 8:22-25 October 4, 2026

The sermon argues that the public, corporate collection of offerings is a biblically mandated element of worship, as established by the regulative principle. The speaker exegetes Acts 2:42, contending that the phrase "the fellowship" (koinonia) refers specifically to this act of giving. This element stands with the same apostolic authority as the teaching of the Word, the Lord's Supper, and corporate prayer. The argument is developed by showing that New Testament passages (1 Corinthians 16, Hebrews 13, Philippians 4) describe giving as a "sacrifice" and "fragrant offering" to be conducted "on the first day of the week" within the gathered assembly. This practice is a New Covenant fulfillment of Old Testament sacrificial worship, where offerings were brought to God's chosen place—now the gathered church where Christ is present. The speaker addresses and refutes several "pragmatic fears" that lead churches to relegate the offering to a box by the door: the fear of what people will think, the fear of abuse or association with prosperity preachers, and misinterpretations of Jesus's commands about giving in secret. The sermon concludes with a call for the congregation to prayerfully consider reforming its practice by bringing the offering into the worship service as a corporate act of worship, following the biblical pattern of responding to God's Word with hearts first given to the Lord, and then with material gifts.

This sermon examines the Sanhedrin's reaction to the apostles' defense in Acts 5, highlighting the tension between human authority and divine sovereignty. It analyzes Gamaliel's pragmatic counsel to leave the apostles alone, arguing that if the movement is of God, it cannot be stopped, and if it is of men, it will fail on its own. The message emphasizes that the early church's response to severe persecution was not fear but joy, viewing suffering as a privilege granted by God to conform believers to the image of Christ. By citing various Old and New Testament passages, the text presents a theological framework where tribulation serves as a means of sanctification and evidence of God's unthwartable purpose. The central call is for believers to trust in God's faithfulness and to remain bold in preaching the gospel, regardless of opposition.

This sermon examines the burial of Jesus as recorded in John 19, emphasizing that his death was a predestined act of God to provide salvation through faith alone. The text highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, specifically that not a bone of Jesus would be broken, linking his death to the Passover lamb and the atonement for sin. The narrative addresses the theological significance of the spear thrust into Jesus' side, affirming his physical death and refuting the swoon theory. It also explores the courageous actions of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who risked their social and religious standing to honor Jesus, demonstrating that the power of the gospel transcends fear. The message concludes by encouraging believers to trust in the finished work of Christ and to boldly share their faith, as the same saving power remains available today. Scripture References: John 19:31-42 Acts 4:27 Luke 23:42-43 Ephesians 2:8-9 Luke 23:46 Zechariah 12:10 Leviticus 17:11 Deuteronomy 21:22-23 Exodus 12:46 Numbers 9:12 Isaiah 53:9 Benediction Romans 11:33,36

The sermon examines Genesis 20 to explore the nature of repeated sin, identifying fear of man and self-justification as primary drivers for believers who struggle with habitual transgressions. While Abraham's deception is highlighted, the text emphasizes Abimelech's innocence, defined by an integrity of heart and clean hands, which contrasts with the deceitfulness of the human heart. The narrative illustrates that true innocence involves both ignorance of the wrong and the absence of the act itself, a standard that points to the necessity of a perfect substitute. Abimelech's payment for restoration serves as a typological picture of the Gospel, where Jesus, the innocent King, bears the cost of sin to provide forgiveness, vindication, and the restoration of God's creative blessings to His people.

I. Casting Out Fear II. With Perfect Love