This sermon explores the biblical definition of Christian love as a self-giving commitment to act for the well-being of others, contrasting it with cultural views based on attraction or emotion. Drawing primarily from John 13 and 1 John 3, the message emphasizes that true love is active, non-discriminating, and affectionate, mirroring God's steadfast love for His people. The preacher challenges believers to demonstrate love through practical deeds rather than mere words or feelings, urging them to serve those in need without partiality. By grounding their conduct in Christ's example, Christians exhibit the greatest virtue that identifies them as disciples. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life of obedient love that flows from receiving God's unconditional grace.

An examination of the conflict between Jesus and the Pharisees regarding ritual purity versus divine commandments, highlighting how human traditions can obscure God's will. It defines six key aspects of God's law, emphasizing its goodness, its enduring relevance, and the fatal consequences of transgression. The text clarifies that while obedience is essential for sanctification, it plays no role in justification, which rests solely on Christ's righteousness. The preacher warns against two errors: rejecting moral obligation under grace (anti-nomian) and lowering the law to an achievable standard (new-nomian). Believers are encouraged to discern and differentiate God's commands from human expectations through diligent study of Scripture and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

How do you truly view the Bible—mere words of men or the living Word of God? Pastor Steve explores how Scripture flows from God's very character, calling us to trust, revere, and submit to it as His perfect revelation.

Point 1: A Character of Excellence (Daniel 6: 1-5) Point 2: A Habitual Dependency (Daniel 6: 6-9) Point 3: A Faithful Response (Daniel 6: 10) Point 4: The Trap (Daniel 6: 11-18) Point 5: Vindication (Daniel 6: 19-24) Point 6: The Praise (Daniel 6: 25-28) This sermon explores the theological significance of Daniel chapter 6, emphasizing that true faithfulness is rooted in habitual dependence on God rather than dramatic acts of rebellion. The speaker highlights how Daniel's consistent character and daily prayer life served as a powerful witness to pagan authorities, ultimately leading to his deliverance and the king's confession of God's sovereignty. Key themes include the collision between civil law and divine obedience, the assurance of God's presence regardless of the outcome, and the effectiveness of a faithful life in evangelism. The message challenges believers to maintain their devotional rhythms even when facing social or legal costs, trusting that God holds their future in His hands.

This sermon interprets Daniel chapter 7 as apocalyptic literature designed to comfort believers living in exile rather than to confuse them with complex imagery. The preacher contrasts the chaotic beasts representing worldly powers with the sovereign rule of the Ancient of Days and the Son of Man, emphasizing that God ultimately triumphs over evil. The message urges the congregation to reject worldly distractions and spiritual junk food in favor of Scripture, which provides endurance and hope. By focusing on God's control over history, believers are encouraged to maintain faith and obedience despite present sufferings or cultural pressures. The sermon concludes with a call to rejoice in the certainty of Christ's victory and the future restoration of all things.

The obedience of faith is richly blessed by God.

The sermon celebrates the fourteenth anniversary of a church founded with no resources, emphasizing that its survival and growth are due entirely to God's faithfulness rather than human effort or denominational support. It establishes the primary mission of the local church as proclaiming Jesus Christ through preaching and teaching, aiming to present believers complete in Him. The speaker contrasts worldly metrics of success, such as attendance numbers, with God's measure of fidelity and adherence to Scripture alone (sola scriptura). A strong call is issued for the congregation to commit wholeheartedly to corporate worship and discipleship, rejecting cultural distractions in favor of biblical obedience. Ultimately, the message urges believers to labor alongside the pastor, striving by God's power to advance the gospel and glorify Christ.

In Romans 16:19, Paul rejoices over the Roman believers' widely known obedience while urging them to remain wise concerning what is good and innocent concerning what is evil. This sermon challenges believers to pursue a guarded obedience that celebrates faithfulness in others, develops discernment toward what is good, and refuses participation in what is evil.

God calls you to honor the authorities He has placed in your life—whether in your family, church, or society—as an expression of your love for Him and for others. This doesn't mean obeying commands that contradict God's Word, but it does mean showing respect, humility, and a willing spirit whenever possible. Rather than following the world's attitude of rebellion, you are called to reflect Christ, who perfectly submitted to His Father's will. Your obedience is not a way to earn God's favor, but a grateful response to the grace you have already received in Him.

Introduction God's Gospel (vv 1-3) God's Warning (vv 4-8) John Owen - "This is the 'falling away' intended by the apostle,—a voluntary, resolved relinquishment of, and apostasy from, the gospel, the faith, rule, and obedience thereof; which cannot be without casting the highest reproach upon the person of Christ Himself." God's Blessing (vv 9-12) John Owen - "The greatest sorrow and burden you can lay on the Father, the greatest unkindness you can do to Him, is not to believe that He loves you."