First Baptist Joplin

John Swadley | Matthew 11:1-6

Have you ever questioned God when life didn’t go the way you expected? In this message from Matthew 11:1–6, we explore how even John the Baptist struggled with doubt during difficult circumstances. His story reminds us that having questions doesn’t mean we’ve lost our faith. God invites us to bring our doubts to Him, seek answers in His Word, and trust His goodness even when life doesn’t make sense. Discover how to find hope in the middle of uncertainty and remember that God’s love remains constant, even in our hardest moments.

John Swadley | Psalm 23:4

Life is full of valleys, those difficult seasons when hope feels distant and the road ahead seems uncertain. In this message from Psalm 23:4, we discover that while hardships are inevitable, we never have to face them alone. God is our Good Shepherd, walking beside us through every struggle, offering comfort, protection, and guidance. No matter how dark the valley may seem, we can keep moving forward with confidence because God is always with us.

Pastor John Swadley | Hebrews 12:1–2

Life is a race, but we don’t run it alone! In this encouraging message from Hebrews 12:1–2, Pastor John Swadley reminds us that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who have finished their race and are cheering us on. From loved ones who have gone before us to the heroes of faith, heaven holds an incredible reunion. But the greatest reward isn’t who we’ll see in heaven. It’s Jesus Himself! Discover how to run life’s race with perseverance, leave behind what holds you back, and keep your eyes fixed on Christ, our ultimate source of living hope.

John Swadley | John 5:1-9

What do you do when you’ve been praying, waiting, and nothing seems to change? In this message from John 5:1–9, we meet a man who had been waiting for healing for 38 years before encountering Jesus. His story reminds us that God hasn’t forgotten us in the waiting. We’re challenged to bring our hidden hurts to Him, stop settling for less than His best, shift our focus from our problems to God, and be ready to obey when He tells us to get up and move forward.

John Swadley | Romans 4:18-21

What does hope look like when everything seems impossible? In this message from Romans 4:18–21, we look at Abraham’s example of trusting God even when circumstances gave him every reason to give up. Biblical hope isn’t wishful thinking. It’s confidence rooted in the promises and faithfulness of God. Learn how to hear God’s promises, make them your own, persevere in prayer, and continue praising Him while you wait.

John Swadley | Mark 9:17-29

What do you do when you’ve prayed, waited, and hoped, but nothing seems to change? In this message from Mark 9:17–29, we meet a desperate father who brings both his faith and his doubts to Jesus. His story reminds us that we don’t need perfect faith to come to God. We can ask for help, be honest about our doubts, and keep holding onto hope even when giving up feels easier.

John Swadley | Ephesians 4:11-16

Why do we really need the church? In this message from Ephesians 4:11–16, we discover that church is about far more than simply attending a service. God designed the church to be a place where we are equipped, find family, grow in our faith, and use our gifts to serve others. When every part of the body does its part, we grow stronger together and become more like Christ.

John Swadley | Exodus 3:9-14

Why should we serve? Looking at God’s call to Moses in Exodus 3, we’re reminded that serving isn’t reserved for pastors, missionaries, or people who feel especially qualified. God chooses each of us, empowers us, and promises to be with us as we step out in faith. Our weaknesses, failures, and insecurities don’t disqualify us. God can use even the simplest acts of service to make an impact we may never fully see. Whether you’re leading, greeting, teaching, working behind the scenes, or simply meeting a need, your “big assist” matters. It’s in giving our lives away that we discover the greatest life God has for us.

John Swadley | Malachi 3:13-18

Following Jesus isn’t always easy, and sometimes it can seem like those who don’t follow God are getting ahead. So, is following Jesus really worth it? In this message from Malachi 3:13–18, we discover three powerful reasons the answer is yes: Jesus helps us through every trial, transforms our relationships, and gives us a hope that lasts beyond our circumstances. When following Jesus feels costly, we can stay faithful knowing the prize is worth the price.

John Swadley | 1 Timothy 1:13-16

We know Jesus died on the cross, but do we really understand why? In this message from 1 Timothy 1:13–16, we unpack the heart of the Gospel and three powerful pictures of what Jesus accomplished for us: He cleanses the stain of our sin, wipes away the record of our wrongs, and welcomes us into the family of God. No matter your past or how great your sin, God’s grace is greater. Jesus came to save sinners, and because of the cross, forgiveness, a fresh start, and eternal life are available to everyone who believes and receives Him.