Heart on SermonAudio

This sermon examines the sixth commandment, 'Thou shalt not kill,' by defining murder as the unlawful, premeditated taking of innocent life and distinguishing it from accidental death through the Old Testament concept of cities of refuge. The central theological argument rests on the belief that human life possesses inherent sanctity because every person is created in the image of God, making the destruction of life an insult to the Creator. The message then transitions to Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount, which upgrades the commandment to include the internal state of the heart, identifying nursed anger without cause and dehumanizing speech as forms of spiritual murder. To avoid breaking this command, the sermon urges believers to view others as God's creations, actively strive for reconciliation to prevent the buildup of hatred, and die to self by surrendering personal rights and reputation to Christ. The tone is convicting yet pastoral, challenging the congregation to examine their speech and attitudes in light of the high value God places on human life.

Today, we delved into Hebrews 4:12, reflecting on the power of God's Word as a living and active force that discerns the thoughts and intentions of our hearts. We connected this truth to the Protestant Reformation, emphasizing how the Scriptures serve as the ultimate authority that transforms lives. Join Pastor Steve as we study God's Word.

Take Heart; It Is I | Mark 6:45–56 Why does obedience to Christ sometimes lead us into suffering? Where is Jesus when we struggle against the winds of difficult providence? And how should Christians respond when fear threatens to overwhelm their faith? In Mark 6:45–56, Jesus sends His disciples into a storm, watches over them in their struggle, and comes to them walking upon the sea. His words, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid," reveal far more than His power over nature. They reveal His divine identity, sovereign care, and faithfulness toward His people. This expository sermon examines three truths: 1. Christ sees His people in their struggle. His apparent absence never means neglect, and His delays are governed by perfect wisdom. 2. Christ reveals Himself as the Lord of the sea. Our confidence rests not in improved circumstances but in the person, power, and saving work of Jesus Christ. 3. Christ exposes our forgetfulness and calls us to faith. Remembering God's past mercies, especially the cross and resurrection, strengthens believers to trust Him in present trials. The sermon also considers Christ's continuing intercession, the Spirit's work in sanctification, the hope of bodily resurrection, and the church's responsibility to bear one another's burdens. When the wind is against you, remember the loaves, remember the cross, and hear the Savior's words: "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid."

What does it look like when the Word of God has taken root in someone's heart? Jesus answers that question in these verses. He describes a life in which the light of God's Truth is revealed, a life in which spiritual growth continues, and a life in which God's Word governs our priorities and obedience.

The text of this edition of the Religious Affections has been modernized to assist the listener. In Section 1 of A Treatise Concerning Religious Affections, Jonathan Edwards draws from 1 Peter 1:8 to argue that genuine Christianity consists largely in holy affections—specifically the vigorous, lively exercises of the soul's will and inclination, such as love and joy. Examining how early Christians endured fiery persecutions, Edwards explains that trials serve to reveal, display, and purify true faith, stripping away empty pretense and dross. He distinguishes between the soul's two primary faculties—the understanding (which perceives and judges) and the inclination or heart (which actively approves or rejects)—and clarifies that affections are not separate from the will, but are simply its most intense and felt operations. Ultimately, while strong affections often produce physical sensations, Edwards emphasizes that the mind alone is their true seat, and that genuine religious vitality manifests through deep, supernatural devotion to an unseen Christ rather than superficial emotional surges.

The sermon explores the silence of Jesus during his suffering and death, drawing a parallel between the oppressed Israelites in Egypt and the Suffering Servant described in Isaiah 53. It emphasizes that Jesus remained silent not out of weakness, but in perfect obedience to the Father's will, bearing the guilt of humanity's sins without complaint or self-defense. The message contrasts human tendencies to complain or question God with Christ's unwavering submission, highlighting that his death was a voluntary substitution for the transgressions of his people. This theological reflection culminates in an exhortation to examine one's heart before partaking in the Lord's Supper, recognizing that the communion elements represent Christ's body and blood shed specifically for sinners. The tone is pastoral and convicting, urging believers to approach the table with humility, confession, and unity, acknowledging that they are unworthy yet fully covered by Christ's atoning sacrifice.

The importance of the words of the Lord Jesus Christ

Storms are inevitable—but panic doesn't have to be. In this sermon from Mark 4, Pastor John Deaton walks us straight into the stormy sea with the disciples to remind us that Jesus is not only aware of the storm—He's in the boat with us. When the winds rise and fear grips your heart, remember this: the storm still knows His voice. And when He speaks, peace follows. This is more than a weather story—this is a call to faith in the One who commands the wind and waves.