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The sermon explores the necessity of spiritual maturity through the habitual practice of seeking God's Word and relying on the Holy Spirit for understanding. Using the metaphor of milk versus strong meat from Hebrews 5, it contrasts immature believers who are dull of hearing with those whose spiritual senses are sharpened by regular exercise in discerning good from evil. The preacher illustrates this point with the example of Joshua at Jericho, showing how focusing on problems rather than God leads to distraction and fear. Emphasizing that wisdom comes from continual prayer and trust, the message urges listeners to habitually depend on divine guidance rather than their own abilities. Ultimately, it calls for a persistent pursuit of God to gain the strength and faith needed to navigate life's challenges with discernment.

The sermon emphasizes that true Christian living requires walking by faith rather than relying on human reason or sensory validation. Using the biblical account of the twelve spies in Deuteronomy 1, the speaker illustrates how the Israelites failed to enter the Promised Land because they sought to confirm God's promises with their eyes instead of trusting His word. Faith is presented as a perfect gift from God that must be tested not to improve it, but to reveal its power and deepen the believer's reliance on divine providence. The message challenges listeners to reject the temptation to validate God's plans through logic or fear, urging them to embrace the trials of life as opportunities to grow in trust. Ultimately, the preacher encourages the congregation to persist in faith, assuring them that all things work for good and that a life lived by faith is the most rewarding existence possible.

In "The Spirit of Adoption," Pastor Robert McNutt continues his expository series through Romans 8, taking up verses 15 and 16 as yet another test by which believers may assure themselves that they are indeed children of God. He first clears away a common misreading of verse 14: being "led by the Spirit" is not chiefly about receiving direct guidance for every decision, though he grants from Acts 13, 15, and 16 that the Spirit does genuinely guide and restrain His servants. The governing subject of the passage is sanctification, putting to death the deeds of the body by the Spirit. Turning to verse 15, McNutt argues that "spirit" must mean the Holy Spirit in both halves of the contrast, not a mere disposition or feeling. The parallel of "received," the force of the word "again," and the consistent usage throughout Romans 8 all point the same direction. This means the Spirit Himself first produced the spirit of slavery and fear, wielding the law to convict of sin, since the unconverted man is not naturally troubled but secure and self-satisfied, as Saul of Tarsus was in Philippians 3. The Spirit's conviction brings a sense of condemnation, of inward depravity, and of utter inability to save oneself, driving the sinner to cry, "What must I do to be saved?" as the Philippian jailer and the crowd at Pentecost did. Only then comes the great exchange: Paul counting his religious resume as rubbish to gain Christ and His imputed righteousness. That prior bondage always precedes adoption, and remembering it is solid ground for assurance when doubts and difficult seasons come.

When Christ promises you peace, you have no reason for fear or anxiety in this life or the life to come.

The sermon examines the marks of a true disciple by analyzing Jesus' high priestly prayer in John 17 and epistles in 1 John. It establishes that unity among believers is the primary evidence to the world of Christ's divine mission. The speaker argues that genuine salvation is demonstrated not merely by external actions but by an internal transformation reflected in one's conduct and conscience. Key indicators include a consistent pursuit of righteousness and sacrificial love for other believers, which distinguishes children of God from those aligned with the devil. Ultimately, this divine love provides believers with assurance of their salvation and casts out fear regarding final judgment.

The sermon explores the profound blessedness that comes from fearing the Lord and delighting in His commandments, as outlined in Psalm 112. It emphasizes that believers possess manifold spiritual and physical benefits in the present life through their union with Christ, rather than focusing solely on future glory. The preacher argues that obedience to God's law brings abundance and stability, contrasting the enduring legacy of the righteous with the fleeting nature of worldly wealth. Additionally, the text highlights the confidence and hope Christians have in facing hardship, assured by the ultimate triumph over adversity and the wicked. The message concludes with a call to gratitude for these current blessings and a reminder of the eternal judgment awaiting those who reject God.

This sermon emphasizes Joseph's purity, integrity, and fear of God when he was tempted by Potiphar's wife in Genesis 39. The message teaches that fornication and adultery are dangerous sins that must not be reasoned with or entertained, but fled from, because they can destroy lives, reputations, homes, and consciences. Joseph refused the daily pressure of temptation, would not betray his master, and recognized that such wickedness would be sin against God. Though he was falsely accused and unjustly imprisoned, Joseph kept his integrity before the Lord, and the Lord was still with him, showed him mercy, and continued to use his life as a powerful example of faithfulness and purity in a wicked world.

Bible Readings: Psalms 101;Ephesians 5:1-20;Psalms 25:1-2 The sermon focuses on King David's resolution in Psalm 101 to sing of God's mercy and judgment, establishing worship as the foundation for a holy life. It emphasizes that singing must be motivated by the fear of God and directed solely to Him, serving as a means of personal sanctification and family devotion. The preacher contrasts the balanced exaltation of divine justice and mercy with common human tendencies to neglect one aspect. By examining David's example and Jesus' fulfillment of this psalm, the message challenges believers to integrate wholehearted praise into their daily lives. Ultimately, it calls for a resolute commitment to worship that reflects submission to God's will and trust in His character.