Introduction:  Today we are going to both explain and observe the two ordinances Christ left for His followers.

Introduction:  Is there a formula in the Bible for healing that, if followed precisely, guarantees positive results?  If not, how do you explain all of the accounts of healing that appear to be taking place today?  Today, we will discover the answers to these questions.

Introduction: When we stand before Jesus Christ one day, we will either be found ready or found

wanting. Today, we will consider Jesus’ parable of the ten virgins. This seemingly simple story

includes one of the most sobering warnings in all of Scripture. Christ cautions His followers to

make sure they are ready . . . really ready.

Introduction: There will come a day when everyone stands before Jesus Christ as either their Savior or their Judge. When that day comes, we will either be found ready or found wanting. So, whether we go before He comes, or He comes before we go, we must all be prepared to meet Jesus.

Introduction:  Today we are going to discover two ways we attempt to usurp God’s sovereignty over our lives.

Introduction:  Which is most important – the death of Jesus or the resurrection of Jesus from the dead?  Today, we will discover why both events are crucial to each of us.

Introduction:  This week we celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ that resulted in salvation for everyone who trusts in Him.  But what happens to people who reject -- or simply neglect -- God’s offer of forgiveness?

Introduction:  What does it mean to be “godly?”  From where do we derive our standards for godly behavior?  In today’s passage, James is going to give us a way to measure our spirituality, as well as offering three practical steps to becoming a godly person.

Introduction:   James says that another measure of the authenticity of our faith is our ability to control our speech.  Our tongue is a powerful organ that can destroy reputations, relationships, and even churches.