Gooch Lane Church of Christ Podcast

When making expensive purchases, we do not want a fake! Whether it is an antique, precious metal, or sports memorabilia, genuineness is paramount. While this is true for things that perish, how much more should it be true for the imperishable; thus, the apostle Paul admonished, “Let your love be genuine” (Romans 12:9a). This study focuses on the need for pure love for fellow members of the body of Christ.

A sermon recording given by Greg Chandler on January 2, 2022.

The anticipation and build-up of excitement as Christmas Day approaches is an enjoyable part of celebrating the holidays with children. However, even adults enjoy the planning and anticipation of a day often shared with family and friends. What, though, about the day after Christmas? The lack of sleep and overindulgence on sugar often transforms excited kids into tired and grumpy kids!

While we don’t know the day on which Jesus was born, many celebrate December 25 as the day of His birth. Few, though, may stop to think what the day after Jesus’ birth was like. As a young woman and man began their lives of caring for this very special Child, how did they handle the day-by-day monotony of life? While the Bible speaks very little about this, we are told that “Jesus grew in wisdom, stature, and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52). What insight can we gain from this short statement about how we live our lives after (new) birth in baptism?

A sermon recording given by Greg Chandler on December 26, 2021.

Losing a family member or friend to death is a difficulty all will face. When these sad times occur, questions often arise in the mind concerning the location and state of the soul following death. In this study, we will see what the Bible teaches concerning both the time immediately following death, along with the promises made to the faithful.

A sermon recording given by Greg Chandler on December 19, 2021

The precious message of the Bible is that God loves us and desires our salvation with Him eternally. With that said, there is much disagreement over how one is saved from sin. Numerous passages throughout the New Testament discuss being saved; however, it can sometimes be a challenge to understand. Like putting together a puzzle, each “piece” must be taken and linked to the others. When this is done, the beautiful picture of salvation through Jesus Christ shines through. This lesson will examine the pieces of the salvation puzzle and how they can be put together for a full understanding of God’s love and His willingness to offer grace and mercy to those who will accept His love.

A sermon recording given by Greg Chandler on December 12, 2021

Serving others is an important part of faithful living. While this is expected of all Christians, deacons are specifically called on to serve the needs of a congregation. In this sermon we discuss what it means to serve as a deacon and what type of men God calls on to serve this important role.

With Thanksgiving just a few days away, it is a good time to not only consider our blessings as Americans but, most importantly, to consider the great blessings found in being citizens of the kingdom of Heaven. From cover to cover of the Bible, many examples can be found of those who heaped praises on God for the great things He has done. In particular, the writer of Psalm 136 pays special attention to the blessings the Lord provided on His people Israel. Many years later, those on this side of the cross can take up the hymn of praise just as was done by ancient Israelites. This study will help encourage more thankfulness from the people of God as they view His power and grace through the centuries.

As cotton farmers gather in the last of the harvest, it is a good time to remember that a good return depends on good soil. Farmers throughout time have known the necessity of having fertile ground; thus, it is no surprise that Jesus compared the heart’s receptiveness of the word of God to seed and soil. After discussing the soils that reject a good harvest, He spoke of the ground that produced bountifully. It is this type of heart that is essential for a bountiful spiritual harvest. In this study, we will explore what it means to prepare our hearts so that God’s word can change us to become like Him.

A sermon recording given by Greg Chandler on November 14, 2021.

Masquerading as someone else is one of the most successful con-games mankind has known. Still today, many are duped out of money because of online scams that employ this technique. Such actions were learned from a master con artist. From the very beginning of human history, Satan has tried to present himself as God and, sadly, has fooled many. This study focuses on Satan’s techniques and how Christians must be on guard not to fall for his lies.

A sermon recording given by Greg Chandler on November 7, 2021.

The culture and circumstances into which we are born and spend our childhood can have a monumental impact on our adult perspectives. This is true about many things, including religion. Children who grow up surrounded by positive spiritual influences should certainly count their blessings; however, they should also realize that with these blessings there are challenges that arise. This study will not only focus on the legitimacy of the idea of being "raised in the church" but also on its implications.

When Christians are contemplating moving to a new location or planning a vacation that means being away from home on Sunday, they rightly make plans to worship with saints in that area. A question that is often asked in these situations will be discussed in this sermon which is entitled, “Strange Things Christians Say: ‘Is There a Sound Church in the Area?'” This study will focus on what is meant by “sound” as used by Christians and what it should mean as defined by God.

A sermon recording given by Greg Chandler on October 27, 2021.