First Baptist Church of El Dorado - Sermons

Can you recognize an idol when you see one? American idols, not the kind that grace your television screens, but the ones that subtly nestle into our lives, often unnoticed. This episode unearths these hidden idols and helps us confront the idolatry in our hearts, much like the age-old challenge faced by the early church and addressed by Jesus in his letters. Tune in as we use the compelling narrative of Jesus' message to Thyatira and a three-step process of reveal, repent, and receive to identify and reject the American idols in our lives.

How would you react if the very foundation of your beliefs was challenged? Jesus, in his letter to the church at Thyatira, defies the prevalent idol worship of Roman culture. He uses his authority as the Son of God not just to expose but to judge these idols, setting the stage for a spiritual awakening. 

Fasten your seatbelts, for we're about to shatter the illusion created by the idols of this world. We discuss how Jesus boldly reveals the sham of these spiritual rulers and authorities and how his power offers us the strength to resist them. As we compare these idols to the diverse participants of the American Idol show, we realize that only Jesus can offer us eternal rewards. We conclude our discussion with a prayer for those yet to put their faith in Jesus, encouraging them to remove the idols from their lives and invite Jesus in. This episode promises a transformative journey, where we rely on the power of his cross and the hope of his resurrection to make poignant changes in our lives. Join us as we navigate this journey together.

What do teen idols, sports teams, and ancient gods have in common? They're all potential American Idols, according to Tim Keller's thought-provoking book Counterfeit Gods. This episode explores the slippery slope of when good things become ultimate things, leading us to unwittingly cast our votes for our very own American Idols. Journey with us as we trek through stories from the book of Daniel, revisit the Golden Calf episode, and scrutinize the struggles with idolatry of the church at Pergamum.

Drench yourself in the spiritual darkness of ancient Pergamum, a city devoted to worshiping gods and emperors. Witness the courage of Antipas, who refused to bow to the city's idols, and feel the piercing revelation of Jesus' double-edged sword exposing the idols within us. The episode culminates in a powerful reflection on the redeeming power of Jesus, who not only reveals the idols in our hearts but also invites us to repent and receive the reward of his grace. Will you be brave enough to ask Jesus to illuminate your heart, and strong enough to turn away from your own idols, trusting only in him for salvation? Tune in to find out.

Ever wondered how deeply intertwined the lives of John the Baptist and Jesus were, even before their births? Brace yourself for an enlightening expedition with Dr. Rex Horne as he narrates the riveting biblical tales of John the Baptist and his relationship with Jesus. Be part of the insightful discourse on how John's doubts about Jesus' identity were met with thought-provoking responses. Dr. Horne brilliantly deciphers the feelings and circumstances that led John to this crossroad of faith, offering a fresh perspective on this significant biblical narrative.

Not only does this sermon examine John's journey, but it also sheds light on Jesus' unconditional love for His disciples, the miracles he performed, and the hope and healing He brought into their lives.  This episode will surely inspire you to strengthen your faith and prayer life, encouraging a deeper connection with Jesus. Tune in and let Dr. Horne guide you on this spiritual journey, offering a unique perspective on familiar biblical stories.

Ever wondered how your life's pain and gain connect to your faith? Picture this: A Filipino fisherman's encounter with a giant pearl, a symbol of both trial and triumph. On our latest episode of the FBC El Dorado Sermon Podcast, we take you on a  journey to make sense of it all.

Imagine you're back in the prosperous city of Smyrna, where the church, surrounded by affluence, endured severe persecution, slander, and even capital punishment. The compelling story of Polycarp, a disciple of John the apostle, reinforces our call to stand firm in our faith, feeling every pinch of pain, and yet refusing to capitulate. No matter the pressure from our culture, no matter what we stand to lose, we understand that our journey of faith contains both trials and triumphs. 

We conclude our episode in the most soothing way we know how - prayer. We empathize with those who live in fear due to their faith, request divine strength, and cheer them on. As we assess our faithfulness, we ensure that no compromise leads us to persecution. Celebrating the hope we have in Jesus, we remember his victory on the cross and his resurrection. We yearn for faithfulness, asking to be found trustworthy each day. Join us, won't you? Let's share in the joy and the pain, the trials and the triumphs of our faith journey.

Is your spiritual inbox filled with junk mail? Could it be time to declutter and focus your attention on the messages that truly matter? We've got quite a journey for you, exploring the profound power of letters, echoing from an eleven-year-old girl named Grace who influenced Abraham Lincoln's election campaign, right through to the life-changing words of Jesus' letters to us.

We'll uncover the balance between truth and love within the church, discussing the challenge of standing for truth without compromise in our ever-changing society. Jesus' message to the Ephesus church about the importance of love shall be our compass. Then, we turn our gaze to the eternal, reflecting on the gift of eternal life and the power of the gospel it brings. We invite you to invite the Holy Spirit to speak words of life into your heart. Whether you're sifting through spiritual junk mail or seeking truth and love in your life, join us. This episode may just be the sign you've been waiting for.

Last week we began a 4-week series called The Jesus Church. In each week of this series we are examining one of the defining characteristics of the early church that is listed in Acts 2:42. 

All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer.

Together these characteristics show us how we as FBC El Dorado can represent Jesus and His kingdom in the world. How we can promote Jesus’ interests and mission in this community and this country. Together these characteristics empower us to reflect the values of Jesus’ kingdom.

In week 1 we focused on the apostle’s teaching. We summarized this teaching with the statement. It’s All About The Gospel. To be the Jesus Church we cannot divorce faith from fellowship. Faith in the Gospel always leads to a Fellowship of the Gospel. 

That’s why Fellowship is the second defining characteristic of The Jesus Church. And, it’s our topic for today.

Much like this country, and other countries, have established embassies to promote their interests and missions, around the world, God’s Kingdom has established its own set of embassies to promote His interests and His mission. GOD’S EMBASSY IS THE LOCAL CHURCH.
Each week in this series we will examine defining characteristics of The Jesus Church. Together these characteristics show us what it means to represent Jesus and 
His kingdom in the world. To be God’s Embassy in a foreign land. Together with these characteristics, we can promote Jesus’ interests and mission in the world. Together these characteristics will endow us with the values of Jesus’ kingdom.

In Week 5 of the sermon series called Life Hacks, we will search the ancient wisdom of God’s Word in order to uncover CHRIST-CENTERED SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY PROBLEMS.  Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts.

In Week 4 of the sermon series called Life Hacks, we will search the ancient wisdom of God’s Word in order to uncover CHRIST-CENTERED SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY PROBLEMS.  Give your worries to the Lord in daily prayer.

In Week 3 of the sermon series called Life Hacks, we will search the ancient wisdom of God’s Word in order to uncover CHRIST-CENTERED SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY PROBLEMS.  The diligent find freedom in their work.