Pride on SermonAudio

Why does the psalmist cry "Hear this, all ye people" (Psalm 49:1) and then "give ear" (Psalm 49:1) in the same breath, and who is the ye? Read verse 5 and ask whether it begins with wherefore or with therefore, and whether a man can say he will not fear the days of evil. Then ask what the rich man who trusts in his wealth can pay for his brother's soul. "None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him." (Psalm 49:7)

A brief bit of encouragement for the journey from God's Word. Today's Scripture reading: Hosea 7 To support this devotional ministry: https://faithbaptiststerling.com/give/ Music: "Awaken the Dawn" by Stanton Lanier https://www.stantonlanier.com CCLI #20109360

A verse-by-verse study through the book of James. As we wrap up our study on Godly verses worldly wisdom, we step into James chapter 4, which starts off with showing the fruit of a worldly wisdom that produces strife and confusion. Hear as Pastor Brian expounds these Scriptures.

This sermon explores the theological foundation of biblical marriage as presented in Ephesians 5, arguing that a Christian union is not primarily about mutual satisfaction but about displaying the relationship between Christ and His church. The message emphasizes that a Christ-centered marriage begins with individual surrender to God and the filling of the Holy Spirit, which addresses the root heart issues of selfishness and pride that often undermine relationships. It outlines distinct responsibilities for spouses, calling wives to respect God's order through willing submission and husbands to emulate Christ's sacrificial, sanctifying, and cherishing love. The preacher challenges listeners to view their marriage as a public testimony of grace and faithfulness, urging them to focus on their own spiritual growth and obedience to Scripture rather than demanding change from their spouse. Ultimately, the sermon invites the congregation to examine their hearts before the Lord, seeking to align their domestic lives with the eternal mystery of Christ's love for the church.

The sermon explores the theological tension between God's sovereign mercy and human responsibility, arguing that divine grace is extended to all but results in either humility or hardening of the heart. Drawing from Romans, Hebrews, and Revelation, the message clarifies that God's judgment is not an act of cruelty but a withdrawal of protection, leaving individuals vulnerable to the destructive nature of Satan. The preacher warns against the deceitfulness of sin and the pride that leads to spiritual destruction, using examples like Pharaoh and Solomon to illustrate how rejecting mercy leads to ruin. In contrast, those who approach God with brokenness and repentance find life and protection, while those who rely on their own wisdom or deny Christ face the wrath of the destroyer. The central call is to recognize the brevity of life and the urgency of submitting to God's will rather than resisting His mercy.

Pastor Brian's sermon explores the dual nature of Jesus as both meek and lowly, and zealous with righteous anger, using the events of Matthew 21 to illustrate the character of God. The cleansing of the temple is presented as a rejection of commercial exploitation and a defense of the sanctity of worship, highlighting that true faith must prioritize righteousness over popularity or financial gain. The cursing of the fig tree serves as a parable against religious hypocrisy, warning that external religion without internal fruit leads to judgment and removal from the community of faith. Finally, the confrontation with the chief priests demonstrates that human wisdom and authority cannot withstand the truth of God, as Jesus turns their trap into a revelation of their own spiritual blindness. The message calls believers to examine their own motivations, ensuring that their faith produces genuine fruit and that they approach God with humility rather than pride or self-interest.

Singing: Psalm 138: 1, 3, 4 Psalm 119: 3, 18 Psalm 75: 3, 4, 6 Psalm 70: 1, 2 Psalm 73: 1, 6, 8, 9 Hymn 35: 1, 2, 4 Reading: Philippians 3: 8 – 4: 1 Text: Esther 5 Sermon: Through His mediator, God seeks the recognition of His people for His glory 1. Esther seeks recognition for her people with grace 2. Haman seeks recognition for himself with pride

Landis OPC Morning Service September 27, 2026 Pastor Johnny Serafini Sermon Text: Romans 4:7-8 Sermon Outline: 1. Grace Instead of Pride 2. Blessing Instead of Prejudice

This sermon examines the passage in Matthew 26 where Jesus predicts the disciples' abandonment of Him, highlighting the contrast between human self-confidence and divine sovereignty. The central message warns against the danger of trusting in one's own strength, using Peter's boastful denial as a primary example of how pride leads to spiritual failure. By referencing 1 Corinthians 10:12, the exposition emphasizes that believers are inherently weak and must rely entirely on Christ to withstand temptation. The preacher urges the audience to acknowledge their frailty and the sufficiency of God's grace. It concludes with a call for believers to confess their sins and for unbelievers to flee to Christ, affirming that salvation is found only through His sacrifice and not human effort.