Perhaps no one in the biblical narratives of the incarnation better exemplifies the spirit of Advent than Simeon and Anna. They have a significant role in Luke's gospel record as witnesses of Jesus as the promised Messiah. They also provide a wonderful example of how believers should live as they await Jesus' return. Listen to this Advent sermon that meditates on the part of Simeon and Anna in the Christmas story.

Preached by Jared Blankenship on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

Sermon Summary:

While the Thessalonians Christians represent those who, upon receiving the gospel–the Word of God–accept it, the unbelieving Jews represent those who continually reject it. This passage is a warning for those who refuse the gospel, and it is a reminder of the immense value of Christ to those who accept it and suffer for it.  

Series Summary:

Called the "Cinderella Epistles of the New Testament" by some, 1-2 Thessalonians are an often overlooked treasure of gospel hope for those who follow Jesus. Despite intense persecution, the Church of the Thessalonians persevered in the faith, longing for the day that Jesus returns to deliver his people and judge the wicked. Exemplifying the unique and genuine bond that arises through a shared faith and struggle, the Apostle Paul wrote to remind the beleaguered Thessalonians of their hope in Christ and to instruct them on how to carry on until he comes. Join us as we study these divinely inspired letters!

Preached on Sunday, December 8, 2024

Sermon Summary:

As he reflects on the miraculous conversion and perseverance of the Thessalonian Christians, Paul highlights the Spirit's work through the ministry of the Word of God–the preaching of the gospel of Jesus. This text teaches us that the Word of God works to save sinners and strengthen saints. 

Series Summary:

Called the "Cinderella Epistles of the New Testament" by some, 1-2 Thessalonians are an often overlooked treasure of gospel hope for those who follow Jesus. Despite intense persecution, the Church of the Thessalonians persevered in the faith, longing for the day that Jesus returns to deliver his people and judge the wicked. Exemplifying the unique and genuine bond that arises through a shared faith and struggle, the Apostle Paul wrote to remind the beleaguered Thessalonians of their hope in Christ and to instruct them on how to carry on until he comes. Join us as we study these divinely inspired letters!

Preached on Sunday, December 1, 2024

Sermon Summary:

One of the most difficult things to do in life is discerning who you can truly trust. Unfortunately, we are often betrayed by those whom we should be able to trust the most, including spiritual leaders. But is there a way to identify Christian ministers who are trustworthy? The Scriptures give us the criteria for such discernment, and this text is one that helps us understand the nature of authentic ministry.

Series Summary:

Called the "Cinderella Epistles of the New Testament" by some, 1-2 Thessalonians are an often overlooked treasure of gospel hope for those who follow Jesus. Despite intense persecution, the Church of the Thessalonians persevered in the faith, longing for the day that Jesus returns to deliver his people and judge the wicked. Exemplifying the unique and genuine bond that arises through a shared faith and struggle, the Apostle Paul wrote to remind the beleaguered Thessalonians of their hope in Christ and to instruct them on how to carry on until he comes. Join us as we study these divinely inspired letters!

Preached on Sunday, November 24, 2024

5th Anniversary Service

Preached by Jonathan Blankenship, Pastor at Laurel Baptist Church in Charlotte, on Sunday, November 17, 2024.

Sermon Summary:

What comes to your mind when you consider the most important qualities of an individual in gospel ministry? In 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8, Paul described his ministry to the Thessalonians in ways that are often missing in many Christians today. 

Series Summary:

Called the "Cinderella Epistles of the New Testament" by some, 1-2 Thessalonians are an often overlooked treasure of gospel hope for those who follow Jesus. Despite intense persecution, the Church of the Thessalonians persevered in the faith, longing for the day that Jesus returns to deliver his people and judge the wicked. Exemplifying the unique and genuine bond that arises through a shared faith and struggle, the Apostle Paul wrote to remind the beleaguered Thessalonians of their hope in Christ and to instruct them on how to carry on until he comes. Join us as we study these divinely inspired letters!

Preached on Sunday, November 10, 2024

Sermon Summary:

As in most places that he visited, it seems that enemies of the gospel in Thessalonica accused Paul of some improprieties in his ministry there. Though the Christians knew better and weren't persuaded, Paul still felt it necessary for their sake and the gospel's to defend the faithfulness of his ministry. The result is an incredibly helpful model of faithful ministry for us to follow. 

Series Summary:

Called the "Cinderella Epistles of the New Testament" by some, 1-2 Thessalonians are an often overlooked treasure of gospel hope for those who follow Jesus. Despite intense persecution, the Church of the Thessalonians persevered in the faith, longing for the day that Jesus returns to deliver his people and judge the wicked. Exemplifying the unique and genuine bond that arises through a shared faith and struggle, the Apostle Paul wrote to remind the beleaguered Thessalonians of their hope in Christ and to instruct them on how to carry on until he comes. Join us as we study these divinely inspired letters!

Preached on Sunday, November 3, 2024

Sermon Summary:

Shockwaves of gospel impact were felt all over Macedonia and Achaia, and the epicenter of it all was the embattled congregation in Thessalonica. In this text, we learn that there is no limit to how God can use a faithful church, but the only church God uses is one that is rooted and grounded in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Series Summary:

Called the "Cinderella Epistles of the New Testament" by some, 1-2 Thessalonians are an often overlooked treasure of gospel hope for those who follow Jesus. Despite intense persecution, the Church of the Thessalonians persevered in the faith, longing for the day that Jesus returns to deliver his people and judge the wicked. Exemplifying the unique and genuine bond that arises through a shared faith and struggle, the Apostle Paul wrote to remind the beleaguered Thessalonians of their hope in Christ and to instruct them on how to carry on until he comes. Join us as we study these divinely inspired letters!

Preached on Sunday, October 27, 2024

Sermon Summary:

Though they may have been disdained and persecuted by their unbelieving neighbors, Paul was certain that the Thessalonian Christians were loved and chosen by God. But how could he be so sure? In this text, there are two proofs of God's electing love that will either be for you a line in the sand that exposes your actual standing with God or a tremendous encouragement and strength to your heart.

Series Summary:

Called the "Cinderella Epistles of the New Testament" by some, 1-2 Thessalonians are an often overlooked treasure of gospel hope for those who follow Jesus. Despite intense persecution, the Church of the Thessalonians persevered in the faith, longing for the day that Jesus returns to deliver his people and judge the wicked. Exemplifying the unique and genuine bond that arises through a shared faith and struggle, the Apostle Paul wrote to remind the beleaguered Thessalonians of their hope in Christ and to instruct them on how to carry on until he comes. Join us as we study these divinely inspired letters!

Preached on Sunday, October 20, 2024

Sermon Summary:

In their opening thanksgiving, Paul, Silas, and Timothy underscored a triad of Christian virtues that are repeated throughout the New Testament: Faith, Love, and Hope. These three virtues are distinct perspectives of a person's genuine conversion to Jesus Christ, and they are all a work of grace accomplished by God.

Series Summary:

Called the "Cinderella Epistles of the New Testament" by some, 1-2 Thessalonians are an often overlooked treasure of gospel hope for those who follow Jesus. Despite intense persecution, the Church of the Thessalonians persevered in the faith, longing for the day that Jesus returns to deliver his people and judge the wicked. Exemplifying the unique and genuine bond that arises through a shared faith and struggle, the Apostle Paul wrote to remind the beleaguered Thessalonians of their hope in Christ and to instruct them on how to carry on until he comes. Join us as we study these divinely inspired letters!

Preached on Sunday, October 13, 2024