Responsibility on SermonAudio

This sermon examines the first woe in Isaiah 28, addressing the spiritual and moral decay of the Northern Kingdom, specifically their reliance on alcohol and political alliances rather than God. The teaching connects this ancient warning to modern civic responsibility, urging believers to pray for leaders who uphold justice, domestic tranquility, and common defense as outlined in 1 Timothy 2 and the U.S. Constitution. While acknowledging the impending judgment of the Assyrian invasion, the message highlights the promise of a remnant and the ultimate establishment of Christ as the cornerstone of a just kingdom. The sermon concludes by encouraging active participation in elections to support governance that aligns with biblical principles of fairness and protection.

Church history reminds us that God has sustained His people through persecution, false teaching, and difficult seasons. In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins reflects on how faithful Christians from the past encourage perseverance and biblical conviction. Drawing from Hebrews 13:7 and Hebrews 12:1–2, Dave explains how believers can learn from their examples without idolizing them and stand firm with confidence in Christ. For more from Contending for the Word Q&A, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-qa/

Are we to expect nothing as a response from the hearers of the gospel? Or is there a call to choose to serve the Lord? Does grace mean that we are to let sin abound so that grace may abound even more? By no means (Rom. 6.2).

I begin my advice to you on this subject, by suggesting a caution against forming this connection prematurely. There is scarcely anything that indicates a greater lack of discretion, than for a young girl, at a time when she ought to be giving her thoughts to her books, and thus laying the foundation for respectability and usefulness, to be giving her heart to some admirer, and entering into an arrangement for speedily giving him her hand. The consequence of this is, that she is only imperfectly educated, and frequently, is subjected through life, by her deficiencies — to serious inconvenience and chagrin. She enters the marital state miserably qualified to sustain its responsibilities; and not improbably acquires a cast of character in that relation, which, unfortunately, is too enduring, and which is alike unfavorable to her own enjoyment, and that of those with whom she is immediately connected.

This sermon examines the contrasting responses to the gospel in Thessalonica and Berea, using the narrative in Acts 17 to illustrate the reality of Christian suffering amidst the spread of the truth. The central message emphasizes that opposition to the faith is not a sign of failure but a privilege granted to believers who share in the sufferings of Christ, as seen in the example of Paul and Silas singing praises in prison. The text highlights the noble character of the Bereans, who eagerly examined the Scriptures daily to verify the apostolic message, contrasting their receptivity with the violent rejection faced in Thessalonica. The sermon connects this biblical history to the theological necessity of enduring hardship for the sake of the gospel, asserting that true glory is found in the face of the suffering servant. It concludes with an invitation to the Lord's Supper, framing the sacrament as a vital means of grace that strengthens believers to remain firm in their faith despite opposition.

This sermon examines the varied responses to Paul's speech in Athens, highlighting how some mocked the resurrection, others expressed curiosity, and a few came to faith. The central message encourages believers to view themselves as evangelists who share the truth about Christ with wisdom, love, and uncompromised integrity. The speaker emphasizes the importance of finding points of contact with unbelievers while maintaining the core truths of the gospel, such as the resurrection of Jesus. Finally, the sermon instructs Christians to leave the results of their efforts to God, trusting that the Holy Spirit alone can change hearts and bring about genuine conversion.

Pastor Brian's sermon examines the Parable of the Tenants in Matthew 21, contrasting the historical failure of Israel with the current responsibility of the church to bear spiritual fruit. It emphasizes that God has provided the church with superior advantages, including the fullness of Scripture and the indwelling Holy Spirit, leaving no excuse for unfaithfulness. The message warns that judgment is certain for those who reject Christ or fail in their stewardship, citing the removal of the candlestick as a historical precedent. Listeners are urged to recognize the approaching 'vintage time' of the second coming and to actively prepare the world for Jesus' return. The central call is to choose to fall on Jesus for mercy and repentance rather than facing the crushing weight of His judgment.

God did not make a mistake when He placed you in this generation. Galatians 4:4 reminds us that God sent His Son in the fullness of time, and just as He prepared the world for the Gospel then, He has placed us in this generation with a purpose. The question is not whether God can use us, but whether we will say yes and allow Him to use us for His glory.

This sermon explores the nature of an evangelizing church by examining the early believers' response to the martyrdom of Stephen and the subsequent persecution in Jerusalem. It argues against a pessimistic worldview that views the world as a sinking ship destined for failure, instead advocating for a realistic optimism grounded in the Great Commission. The central theme is that a true church is 'impregnated' with the good news of Jesus Christ, recognizing that God's Word provides the necessary framework for human life and that the gospel addresses fundamental human needs for righteousness, forgiveness, and new life. The pastor emphasizes that evangelism is not merely a ministerial duty but a communal mission driven by the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to share the hope of Christ's resurrection and return. Ultimately, the message encourages the congregation to reject despair and actively engage in sharing the gospel, trusting that the light of Christ shines in the darkness and prevails.

The sermon teaches that faith responds to conflict by trusting God's provision rather than grasping for what appears best. After returning from Egypt greatly blessed, Abram and Lot's increasing possessions create strife between their households, yet Abram seeks peace by humbly giving Lot the first choice of land, trusting that God will provide regardless of what remains. Lot chooses by sight, selecting the lush Jordan Valley near wicked Sodom, while Abram remains in Canaan according to God's revealed promise. The contrast demonstrates that what looks most desirable is not always what God intends for His people, while closed doors and less attractive circumstances may actually reflect His gracious providence. God then reaffirms His covenant to Abram, promising him the land and innumerable descendants, and Abram responds with worship. Ultimately, Abram's willingness to put another before himself foreshadows Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies peacemaking, humility, generosity, and self-sacrifice. Christians therefore can pursue reconciliation, give preference to others, and faithfully accept God's provision because what the world offers may perish, but what Christ promises is eternal.