Reverberate: A Berean Bible Church Podcast | Knoxville, TN

Title: The Enthusiasm of age
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In his sermon titled "The Enthusiasm of Age," Jed Gillis dives deep into Psalm 71, exploring the theme of enduring faith and enthusiasm as we age. Gillis highlights three key reasons to value age, even in a culture that often prizes youth and productivity. First, he emphasizes that the Bible consistently addresses age, reminding us that every stage of life has purpose and meaning. Second, he observes that many struggles associated with old age—such as health issues and loneliness—actually begin in younger years, suggesting a continuity in life's trials. Lastly, he underscores the importance of setting long-term spiritual goals early in life to shape the kind of older person one aspires to be.
Gillis uses Psalm 71 to illustrate the psalmist’s desperate plea for refuge and rescue from God amidst adversity and aging. He draws analogies between seeking refuge in God and finding safety in a fortress or base during a game of tag, stressing total reliance on God's protection. The psalmist's continual trust in God is highlighted as a model for enduring faith, regardless of one's physical strength or external circumstances.
Gillis challenges listeners to maintain their enthusiasm for God through continuous praise, trust, and hope. He explains that true endurance is not about self-reliance but about leaning on God entirely. By praising God's righteousness and recounting His mighty deeds, believers can sustain their hope even when facing difficulties.
Gillis concludes by encouraging believers at all stages of life to express their enthusiasm for God openly. He calls on children to cultivate excitement about God, teens to use their energy for worship, parents to model genuine faith for their children, single adults to build habits of trust now, and older adults to continue demonstrating their love for God through praise and testimony.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: Good News of Great Joy!
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Luke 2:9–14
And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (ESV)
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In his sermon titled "Good News of Great Joy!," Jed Gillis delves into Luke 2:9–14, focusing on the angel's announcement to the shepherds about the birth of Jesus. Gillis begins by addressing common fears, ranging from minor anxieties to profound existential worries. He emphasizes that God's message throughout Scripture is often "fear not," providing reasons for this reassurance.
The angel's message in Luke 2 is one of grace, joy, and inclusivity. It isn't self-help advice but divine intervention. The news brings great joy because it promises not just temporary relief but lasting fulfillment and peace. This message is for all people, regardless of their background or status.
Gillis explains that the announcement of Jesus' birth signifies the arrival of a Savior who can forgive sins, fulfill hopes, and defeat enemies. This Savior is Christ the Lord, embodying the roles of prophet, priest, and king. The angel provides a sign: a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger, symbolizing humility and divine glory intertwined.
The heavenly host's response to this good news is twofold: "Glory to God in the highest" and "peace on earth among those with whom he is pleased." Gillis clarifies that God's pleasure comes through faith in Jesus alone, making the gospel both exclusive in its demands and radically inclusive in its scope.
He concludes by urging listeners to let go of self-reliance and embrace the peace and joy found in Christ. This Christmas season, believers are invited to join the angels in glorifying God and experiencing true peace through faith in Jesus.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: Mary's Worship
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Luke 1:46–56
And Mary said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
And his mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
as he spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his offspring forever.”
And Mary remained with her about three months and returned to her home. (ESV)
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Jed Gillis's sermon on Luke 1:46-56 delves into Mary's profound worship upon learning of her role in God's divine plan. He highlights how Mary, a humble teenage girl, magnifies God despite the improbability of her situation. Gillis touches on the world's desperate cry for love and justice, noting that true answers lie within God's Word and the Christmas story. When Gabriel announces God's favor to Mary, she initially reacts with confusion and fear but ultimately accepts her role with faith, saying, "Let it be to me according to your word."
Gillis emphasizes three key themes: favored, magnify, and holy love. Mary is described as favored not because of her deeds but due to God's grace. Her soul magnifies the Lord, not by enlarging something small but by revealing a slice of God's vast glory. This act of magnification is likened to using a telescope rather than a microscope. Finally, Gillis explores the concept of holy love—God's perfect blend of justice and mercy—as demonstrated through the incarnation.
Mary's response serves as an example for believers to trust in God's plans and magnify His glory through joyful worship. The sermon concludes with an invitation to reflect on how one can similarly respond to God's call in their own lives.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: "God's Wisdom and Ours" (Job 3)

Title: "The God of Sufferrers" Job 1-2

Title: Baptism
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Romans 6:1–4
What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. (ESV)
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In his sermon, Jed Gillis delves into Romans 6:1-4 to unpack the profound meaning behind baptism. The passage raises a key question: Should we continue sinning so that grace may abound? Paul’s emphatic response is "By no means!" The essence of the message lies in understanding that as believers, we have died to sin through our union with Christ. Baptism symbolizes this union, signifying our death to sin and resurrection to a new life in Christ.
Gillis emphasizes that baptism represents being immersed in Jesus. This immersion denotes our complete identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too are called to walk in newness of life. This transformation isn’t achieved through legalistic rule-following or a lax attitude towards sin; instead, it stems from being united with Christ.
Drawing parallels between marriage and our relationship with Christ, Gillis illustrates how believers share in everything that belongs to Jesus. Our sins become His, and His righteousness becomes ours. This profound exchange exemplifies the depth of God’s grace and love for us. Baptism serves as a public declaration of this intimate union and commitment.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: Gratitude and Prayer
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1 Thessalonians 5:16–22
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. (ESV)
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In this sermon, Jon Farra delves into the heart of 1 Thessalonians 5:16–22, emphasizing a life marked by gratitude and constant prayer. The passage instructs believers to "rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances," highlighting these actions as God's will for those in Christ Jesus. Farra underscores that embodying these principles transforms our lives, making us more aligned with God's desires.
The sermon also cautions against quenching the Spirit and despising prophecies. Instead, believers are encouraged to test everything and hold onto what is good while abstaining from every form of evil. The message underscores that Christian life involves active engagement with faith—rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks are not passive states but deliberate actions that reflect a deep connection with God.
This passage challenges believers to live joyfully and prayerfully despite life's difficulties. It calls for a reliance on God’s strength rather than our own, emphasizing that true gratitude stems from recognizing God's work in every circumstance. Through these verses, the speaker encourages a holistic Christian walk, one that encompasses worship, community support, and unwavering faithfulness to God's commands.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: Worship and Worry
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In his sermon on Luke 12, Jed Gillis explores the interplay between worship and worry, emphasizing that understanding our place in God's kingdom can alleviate anxiety. Jesus warns against the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and reminds us that everything hidden will be revealed. He encourages us to fear God rather than earthly threats, underscoring our immense value to Him.
Gillis addresses common anxieties about life's necessities, urging believers not to be consumed by these worries. Instead, trust in God's provision as He cares for birds and clothes flowers. Jesus' teachings highlight that life is more than food and clothing; it’s about seeking God's kingdom first.
The parable of the rich fool illustrates the futility of storing earthly wealth without being "rich toward God." Jesus calls us to focus on heavenly treasures where no thief or moth can destroy. By understanding ourselves as sheep—weak but dearly loved—and recognizing God as our Father, King, and Shepherd, we can combat sinful worry with faith in His sovereignty and goodness.
This perspective transforms our anxiety into peace, rooted in God's eternal care for His flock. Knowing our ultimate worth in His eyes helps redirect our fears towards trust and worship, making God the central treasure of our lives.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: Worship and Humility
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1 Corinthians 1:21–31
For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” (ESV)
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In his sermon, "Worship and Humility," Jed Gillis delves into 1 Corinthians 1:21-31, emphasizing how true worship of God fosters genuine humility. The passage contrasts the wisdom of the world with the wisdom of God, highlighting the folly perceived by those who rely on human understanding. The Jews demand signs, and the Greeks seek wisdom, but Paul preaches Christ crucified—a stumbling block to some but the power and wisdom of God to believers.
Gillis stresses that the gospel dismantles self-reliance by creating a new heart focused on God's glory rather than personal achievement. He explains that many Corinthians were not wise, powerful, or of noble birth according to worldly standards. Yet, God chose what is foolish and weak in the world to shame the wise and strong, ensuring that no one can boast before Him.
The sermon underscores three challenges related to humility: distinguishing between false accusations of pride and genuine confidence in spiritual truth, evaluating one's own humility, and understanding the deadly seriousness of pride as opposed to humility. Gillis asserts that biblical humility is rooted in recognizing God's worth as the greatest treasure. True humility emerges from boasting only in God's accomplishments through Christ—His righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.
Ultimately, Gillis encourages believers to pursue humility by resting in the gospel and boasting solely in God. This shift in focus aligns hearts with God's will and pleases Him. The call to action is clear: let your boast be in Jesus Christ alone, for in doing so, you embody true humility before God.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: The Self-Talk of Worship
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Psalm 103
Of David.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies you with good
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all who are oppressed.
He made known his ways to Moses,
his acts to the people of Israel.
The LORD is merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
He will not always chide,
nor will he keep his anger forever.
He does not deal with us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our iniquities.
For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
as far as the east is from the west,
so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
As a father shows compassion to his children,
so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.
For he knows our frame;
he remembers that we are dust.
As for man, his days are like grass;
he flourishes like a flower of the field;
for the wind passes over it, and it is gone,
and its place knows it no more.
But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him,
and his righteousness to children’s children,
to those who keep his covenant
and remember to do his commandments.
The LORD has established his throne in the heavens,
and his kingdom rules over all.
Bless the LORD, O you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his word,
obeying the voice of his word!
Bless the LORD, all his hosts,
his ministers, who do his will!
Bless the LORD, all his works,
in all places of his dominion.
Bless the LORD, O my soul! (ESV)
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In his sermon titled "The Self-Talk of Worship," Jed Gillis delves into Psalm 103 to explore the importance of internal dialogue in our worship and spiritual life. Gillis emphasizes that true worship involves more than just Sunday morning singing; it permeates every aspect of our lives.

Psalm 103 begins with a call for self-reflection: "Bless the Lord, O my soul." This phrase sets the tone for a discourse on God's character and deeds. Gillis explains that David, the psalmist, speaks to his inner self, urging himself to remember and praise God’s attributes and actions. This act of self-talk isn't just casual musing but a deliberate effort to keep God's goodness at the forefront of his mind.
Gillis highlights several key attributes of God as outlined in the Psalm:
- **Forgiver:** God forgives all iniquities, not just some or those before we knew Him.
- **Healer:** He heals both physical ailments and emotional wounds.
- **Redeemer:** God rescues us from life's pits, showcasing His immense resources.
- **Rewarder:** He crowns us with steadfast love and mercy, signifying our value in His eyes.
- **Satisfier:** God's provision satisfies us deeply and healthily.
- **Justice Warrior:** He works righteousness and justice for the oppressed.
- **Revealer:** God makes His ways known to us, guiding us through life.
David's reflections are not only theological affirmations but practical reminders for daily living. As Gillis notes, these truths about God's character are meant to be repeated internally, shaping how we view ourselves and our circumstances. By continually reminding ourselves of who God is—a forgiving, healing, redeeming, rewarding, satisfying King—we align our hearts with His truth.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.