Guiding Question:

Summary

Description:

Lewis begins by reminding the congregation that biblical belief is inseparable from action—true belief means following. With humor and honesty, he describes how failing to follow leads to isolation and trouble. He then dives into the three word pictures in Psalm 23:5: the table, representing the Shepherd’s advance preparation; the oil, symbolizing healing through the Holy Spirit; and the cup, representing a life overflowing with God’s presence and provision.

The message is rich with applications, including stories of healing from conflict and emotional wounds. One particularly powerful example involves a pastor reconciling with his aging father—a real-life picture of how the Shepherd’s care restores brokenness.

Outline:

Intro & Psalm Recitation – Congregational reading of Psalm 23 to frame the message.

The Psalm’s Two Big Themes – Following and experiencing “better.”

Defining Biblical Belief – Belief equals following; passive faith is unbiblical.

Three Word Pictures in Psalm 23:5:

The Table – God's provision prepared in advance, like lush tablelands for sheep.

The Oil – Healing for irritations and infections; symbolic of the Holy Spirit.

The Cup – A life that overflows with God’s presence, peace, and hope.

Personal and Pastoral Stories – Including the Civil War letter from Robert’s family, illustrating God’s care even in death.

Practical Application – Believe in God's preparation and keep applying the Spirit's "oil" through surrender and listening.

Key Takeaways

Biblical belief always leads to action—it means following Jesus as Shepherd.

God's care is active, intentional, and preemptive; He prepares “tablelands” for our good.

The Holy Spirit is our healing oil, bringing peace amid irritations and freedom from infections like unresolved conflict or unrepentant sin.

When we follow, our lives overflow with spiritual abundance, even in hardship.

Yielding to God through quiet, honest reflection is the pathway to ongoing spiritual vitality.

The Shepherd’s care reaches all the way to eternity—our future home is already being prepared.

Scriptural References

Psalm 23:5 – “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies…”

John 10:10 – Jesus came to give life “more abundantly.”

John 14:2–3 – Jesus prepares a place for His followers.

Ephesians 2:10 – God has prepared good works in advance for us.

Revelation 19:9 – The marriage supper of the Lamb.

2 Corinthians 1:21–22 – Anointing and sealing by the Holy Spirit.

Romans 8:14 – Led by the Spirit of God.

Recorded 6/5/05

Guiding Question:

Summary

Description:

This message is both personal and prophetic. Lewis reflects on 25 years of ministry, celebrates the strength of the church, and lays out five key cultural and ministry trends that the next generation must address to ensure the church remains vibrant and faithful.

Outline:

Marathon Analogy – A race requires preparation, guidance, and the right pacing.

Paul and Timothy (2 Timothy 4) – The sacred handoff of leadership and mission.

The Reality of Decline – Every thriving church has a shelf life without renewal.

Five Cultural and Ministry Trends:

Massive church closures due to generational shifts.

A move toward small, high-quality churches.

A demand for doctrinal clarity and authentic leadership.

The rise of homegrown, non-seminary ministers.

A renewed focus on evangelizing children and teens.

Personal Reflections and Departure – Robert Lewis formally announces his transition to Global Reach and commissions Fellowship’s next generation.

The Final Charge – Preach the Word. Fulfill your ministry. Die with no regrets.

Key Takeaways

Effective leadership transitions are intentional, spiritual, and urgent for the future health of the church.

The church must adapt to cultural and generational changes without compromising doctrinal clarity or mission.

Small churches can be powerful when combined with excellence and community.

The future of the church depends on equipping everyday believers for ministry.

The most strategic evangelism today is aimed at youth, given their openness and under-reached status.

Finishing well means living with “no regrets” and passing the baton with confidence and hope.

Scriptural References

2 Timothy 4:1–8 – Paul’s solemn charge to Timothy and reflection on finishing well.

Acts 20:18–32 (paraphrased) – Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian elders, adapted by Lewis to say goodbye to Fellowship.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (implied) – Recognizing seasons and times for transitions.

Recorded 3/6/05

Guiding Question:

Summary

Description:

The message pivots to the biblical examples of Moses and Joshua in Deuteronomy 31, and Paul and Timothy in 2 Timothy 3. Lewis warns that every generation faces powerful cultural currents—what he calls the "undertow"—that pull believers away from authentic faith. He describes a four-generation cycle from spiritual excitement to eventual emptiness and argues that only by becoming a renewed “first generation” church can younger believers break that cycle.

Outline:

Satirical "Pious Pill" Sketch – Critique of easy spiritual fixes.

Artificial Maturity – Cultural obsession with shortcuts to growth.

Undertow Metaphor – Spiritual drift illustrated through generational flow.

Deuteronomy 31 – Moses’ warning to Joshua: Stay faithful to “the Rock.”

2 Timothy 3 – Paul’s charge to Timothy: Resist cultural corruption.

Four Modern Spiritual Currents:

Corrupt personal values (self, money, pleasure).

Corrupt behaviors (pride, irreverence, gossip).

Formalized religion without power.

False teachers offering spiritual tricks.

Call to the Next Generation:

Be Standard Bearers: Hold firm to Scripture.

Be Personal Trainers: Disciple others deeply.

Be Generous Givers: Time, money, and energy for the Kingdom.

Be Risk Takers: Bold, creative, globally-minded leaders.

Key Takeaways

Spiritual maturity can’t be manufactured with shortcuts; it requires discipline and authenticity.

Generational drift is natural unless intentionally resisted through biblical conviction and courage.

Leaders must prepare for cultural and theological challenges that mimic spirituality but lack truth.

The next generation can become a renewed "first generation" if they commit to deep personal growth and bold faith.

The church's future vitality depends on young Christians stepping into leadership, with courage and vision.

Scriptural References

2 Timothy 3:1–9 – Warnings of cultural decay and false spirituality in the last days.

Deuteronomy 31:15–23 – Moses warns of Israel’s tendency to forget God.

Deuteronomy 32:4–18 – God as “the Rock” and Israel’s rebellion.

Joshua 1:8–9 – Be strong and courageous; obey the Word.

1 Timothy 4:12 – Young believers are called to be examples.

2 Timothy 2:2 – Entrust the faith to faithful teachers.

1 Timothy 6:17–19 – Wealth should be used to build God’s Kingdom.

Hebrews 1:1–2 – These are the “last days” where God speaks through His Son.

Guiding Question:

Summary

Description:

Outline:

The Challenge of Change

Why most New Year’s resolutions fail: too much, too fast, or giving up.

The importance of aiming for one meaningful, realistic change.

Cultural Resistance and Personal Resignation

The dangers of either trying too much or believing we can’t change at all.

Covey’s metaphor of launch: most effort is needed at the beginning.

A Story of Transformation

Governor Mike Huckabee’s physical transformation as a metaphor for spiritual change.

Key motivators: faith, fitness, family.

The Christian Life as Real Change

Paul’s vision in Ephesians 4–5: living differently from the world.

Putting off the “old self” and putting on the “new self” through practical, moral change.

Examples of the New Self

Telling the truth, controlling anger, giving generously, speaking life, pursuing sexual purity.

Not just religious behaviors, but real lifestyle changes.

The Power of One Change

A single, authentic change can set the course for a life of transformation.

Offers hope to others and confirms the reality of our faith.

Testimony and Challenge

A moving story of reconciliation after 11 years of estrangement.

Encouragement to identify your “one thing” and ask God to help you change it.

The Rewards of Change

Richer life, deeper faith, influence on others, and the pleasure of God.

Key Takeaways

Real, lasting change requires focus, humility, and the help of God—not just willpower.

Trying to change too much at once often backfires; instead, aim for one significant change.

Spiritual growth is shown in real-life actions, not just religious routines.

Becoming different is how we make a difference in the world.

God partners with us when we sincerely commit to growth and transformation.

Even one real change can lead to freedom, new options, and a renewed walk with God.

Scriptural References

Ephesians 4:17–24 – Put off the old self, be renewed, and put on the new self.

Ephesians 5:3–14 – A call to walk in light and purity, reflecting Christ.

Romans 12:2 – Transformation by renewing the mind (implied concept).

John 8:32 The truth will set you free (referenced in testimony).

Psalm 23, Joel 2:25, Jeremiah 30:17 – Restoration and healing (echoed from prior messages).

1 Thessalonians 4:17 – Eternal hope (part of larger biblical context).

Recorded 1/9/05

Guiding Question:

Summary

Description:

Outline:

The Spirit of Christmas

Holiday nostalgia and spiritual sensitivity.

Christmas is more than feelings—it’s about the gift of Jesus.

Jesus: The Indescribable Gift

Biblical titles and descriptions of Jesus as a “gift.”

2 Corinthians 9:15; Romans 6:23; John 4:10.

The Woman at the Well

Jesus’ compassion and invitation to a broken Samaritan woman.

“If you knew the gift of God…”

God’s Question to Us

Christmas answers: Is God there? Does He care?

But the real question is: Do you want the gift?

What Does It Take to Receive the Gift?

John 3:16 and the call to “believe.”

The distinction between real belief and flawed, passive belief.

Real Belief vs. Flawed Belief

Real belief leads to action, life change, and deep connection with Christ.

Flawed belief is passive, distant, and untransforming.

What the Gift Delivers

Forgiveness (Colossians 2:13)

Freedom (John 8:32)

Restoration (Psalm 23; Joel 2:25; Jeremiah 30:17; Malachi 4:6)

Surprise (1 Corinthians 2:9)

Reunion and eternal life (1 Thessalonians 4:17)

Stories of Transformation

Real-life testimonies of people who embraced the gift and experienced freedom, restoration, and hope—even from prison.

Final Invitation

A call to receive the gift through genuine, life-altering belief.

Key Takeaways

Jesus is not just the reason for the season; He is the gift that changes everything.

True belief is not passive acknowledgment but an active, surrendered trust that transforms life.

Many claim belief but have not received the life promised in John 3:16—because their belief lacks real buy-in.

The gift of Jesus delivers real change: forgiveness, freedom, healing, purpose, and eternal hope.

Christmas invites us to answer God's question: “Do you want me?”

When we truly believe, Jesus surprises us—again and again—with grace, power, and presence.

Scriptural References

2 Corinthians 9:15 – “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.”

Romans 6:23 – “The free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

John 4:10 – “If you knew the gift of God…”

John 3:16 – Belief as the key to eternal life.

Colossians 2:13 – Forgiveness of all transgressions.

John 8:32 – The truth will set you free.

Psalm 23 – “He restores my soul.”

Joel 2:25 – “I will restore the years the locusts have eaten.”

Jeremiah 30:17 – “I will restore you to health.”

Malachi 4:6 – Restoring hearts of fathers to children.

1 Corinthians 2:9 – “What God has prepared for those who love Him.”

1 Thessalonians 4:17 – “So shall we always be with the Lord.”

Recorded 12/19/04

Guiding Question:

Summary

Description:

Outline:

Opening Drama and Real-Life Parallels

A birthday moment reveals Lenny’s personal struggles and longings.

A kind word shifts his perspective—a small turnaround.

Jonah’s Second Chance

God repeats His original command: "Arise, go to Nineveh."

Jonah obeys, albeit reluctantly, beginning his turnaround.

Context for Turnaround

Both Jonah and Nineveh are in pain—one from resistance, the other from cultural collapse.

Each faces hard realities: Jonah must obey; Nineveh must repent.

God’s Relentless Pursuit

God doesn’t give up on Jonah or Nineveh.

He offers second chances to both.

The Power of Reluctant Obedience

Jonah delivers a message with minimal passion.

Still, the people of Nineveh respond with dramatic repentance and transformation.

Jonah and Nineveh as Types

Jonah represents the reluctant believer or church—hesitant to share.

Nineveh represents responsive unbelievers—waiting for someone to speak up.

Modern Application

Personal stories of faith shared reluctantly, yet leading to radical transformation.

The church’s mission to publicly proclaim hope and truth, despite cultural pressure toward privatized belief.

Closing Invitation

A call to faith for those needing a new life.

A call to action for believers to share the message of life with others.

Key Takeaways

Turnarounds often begin with small moments—simple acts of kindness, honest words, or revisiting God's call.

Pain, failure, and cultural chaos can all be starting points for spiritual renewal.

God is unrelenting in His pursuit of people, offering second chances and restoration.

Faith isn’t meant to be private; it’s a public, outward witness to God’s truth and love.

Even reluctant obedience can spark great transformation in others.

Every believer has the power to help someone experience a “new life.”

Scriptural References

Jonah 3:1–10 – God’s call repeated to Jonah; Nineveh's repentance and God's mercy.

John 1:14 – God “invading our space” through the incarnation.

Matthew 28:19–20 – The call to make disciples of all nations.

Romans 10:14–15 – How can they believe unless someone tells them?

Examples of Restoration – Moses (Exodus 2:11–25), David (2 Samuel 11–12), Peter (John 21).

Recorded 11/28/04

Guiding Question:

Summary

Description:

Outline:

Introduction to Bibliology

Is the Bible true? If so, how do we know?

Special focus on the Old Testament.

Mystery and Faith

Much of the Old Testament’s origin lies in ancient history.

Acknowledges gaps but highlights archeological support.

Human Authorship Types

Inspired, proven leaders (e.g., Moses).

Inspired, proven prophets (e.g., Elijah).

Inspired compilers (e.g., authors of Psalms, Kings).

The Supernatural Smell Test

Books were accepted based on clear evidence of divine activity and historical consistency.

How the Old Testament Was Compiled

Slowly over 1,000 years.

Scrolls added over time until writing stopped around 400 BC.

Josephus’ affirmation of its completion and integrity.

The Apocrypha

Not accepted by Jews or early Christians.

Added later by the Catholic Church in 1546.

Jesus’ Endorsement

Treated the Old Testament as authoritative, infallible, imperishable, and historical.

Quoted it often and lived in fulfillment of its prophecies.

Prophecy as Proof

Dozens of fulfilled prophecies, especially those about Jesus.

Examples include birthplace, manner of death, resurrection, and eternal reign.

Conclusion and Call to Faith

Faith in the Old Testament is not blind—it’s based on strong evidence.

The Old Testament ultimately points to Jesus and invites us not to miss him.

Key Takeaways

The Old Testament did not fall from the sky; it was compiled over a millennium by inspired leaders, prophets, and trusted compilers.

Archeological and historical discoveries in the 20th century have increasingly supported its accuracy.

Jesus himself affirmed the Old Testament’s authority and fulfillment in his life.

Fulfilled prophecy gives powerful evidence of divine authorship.

The Old Testament is not merely historical—it’s personal and relational, pointing directly to Jesus Christ.

Faith in the Bible is reasonable and evidence-based, not blind or naive.

Scriptural References

Genesis 49:10 (Tribe of Judah)

Jeremiah 23:5–6 (King from David’s line)

Micah 5:2 (Born in Bethlehem)

Isaiah 7:14 (Born of a virgin)

Isaiah 9:6 (Mighty God, Prince of Peace)

Isaiah 53 (Suffering Servant, sacrifice, resurrection)

Psalm 22 (Crucifixion details)

Daniel 9:25–26 (Timeline of Messiah’s death)

Matthew 4:4; 5:18; 15:3–6; 22:29; 24:37–39

John 5:39–40; 10:35; 12:34–35

Recorded 10/17/04

Why does God allow Christians to suffer, and how should we respond when we face ridicule or rejection for living a godly life?

In this compelling sermon, Dr. Robert Lewis explores the often-unspoken reality of Christian suffering—not the kind caused by general hardship, but the unique suffering believers face simply for following Christ. Drawing from 1 Peter 4:12–19, he unpacks why this suffering is inevitable, what purpose it serves, and how we are called to respond. With honesty, humility, and clarity, Dr. Lewis addresses the emotional and spiritual challenges that come with being mocked, misunderstood, or even reviled for the mere name "Christian."

Using real-life stories—from Bob Dylan's conversion to personal moments of shame and boldness—he helps believers understand that such trials are not strange but deeply meaningful. They test our faith, shape our character, and identify us with Christ’s own suffering. And ultimately, they prepare us for joy—now and in eternity.

Whether you’re enduring peer pressure, workplace opposition, or quiet loneliness for your faith, this message will challenge and encourage you to rejoice and entrust your soul to a faithful Creator.

Introduction

The context of 1 Peter and Peter’s own martyrdom.

Today's suffering may not be physical—but it is real.

The Inevitability of Christian Suffering (v.12)

“Fiery ordeal” is not strange—it's to be expected.

Christian suffering is promised (2 Tim. 3:12).

The “bed of roses syndrome” many young believers fall into.

The Reason for Christian Suffering (v.12)

It tests our faith and proves its authenticity.

Real-life example: a Christian in Peru losing his job over integrity.

The Benefits of Christian Suffering (vv.13–14)

It aligns us with Christ's suffering.

There is joy now and joy to come.

It brings power and anointing (Spirit of glory rests on us).

The Boundaries of Christian Suffering (vv.15–16)

Not all suffering is godly—don’t suffer for wrongdoing.

Avoid becoming a "troublesome meddler."

The Perspective of Judgment (vv.17–18)

God's judgment starts with the household of God but extends to unbelievers.

Suffering reveals both the saved and the condemned.

The Proper Response to Suffering (v.19)

Entrust your soul to a faithful Creator.

Do what is right—stand firm in faith.

Conclusion & Prayer

Encouragement for those who’ve faced rejection for their faith.

A call to endure joyfully, just as Christ did.

Christian suffering is not optional; it’s promised. Living godly in Christ will bring opposition.

Suffering is a test. It reveals whether we truly follow Christ or just admire Him from afar.

There is joy in suffering. Rejection aligns us with Jesus and assures us of future glory.

Suffering brings spiritual power. When we stand up for our faith, God’s Spirit strengthens us.

Not all suffering is righteous. We must guard against self-inflicted trouble and judgmental attitudes.

Eternal perspective is essential. Our present trials are nothing compared to the judgment awaiting those who reject Christ.

1 Peter 4:12–19 – Main passage on Christian suffering and response.

2 Timothy 3:12 – “All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

Hebrews 12:1–2 – Jesus endured suffering for the joy set before Him.

Romans 8:1 – “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Matthew 5:11–12 – “Blessed are you when others revile you… rejoice and be glad.”

Recorded 10/26/80

Guiding Question

Summary

Robert Lewis challenges believers to confront the ever-present pull of sin, not by merely resisting it, but by replacing it—through a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. The message opens with a stark reality: sin is not just around us; it’s in us. Using both humor and Scripture, Lewis exposes the deceptive nature of sin and the limitations of simply trying to “fight” it.

Drawing from Titus 2:11–14, a passage used as an early church creed, Lewis explains how Jesus not only brings salvation but also purifies lives. The key to moral purity, he argues, is not just in putting off sin but in actively pursuing Jesus. Lewis critiques the legalistic “fight sin” approach common in past generations and offers instead the “freedom-through-pursuit” model—developing new desires by loving and following Christ.

He ends with practical applications: one, seek forgiveness through Jesus immediately, and two, commit to a long-term path of spiritual growth through Scripture and obedience. That, he says, is how your story ends in freedom.

Outline:

Opening Insight – “Sin is not my friend”—but why does it stay so close?

Two Reasons Sin Persists – It's deceptive and it's part of our nature.

A Missed Target – Illustrating sin as “missing the mark” (harmatia).

Titus 2:11–14 – Jesus came to save and purify a people for Himself.

What We’re Called to Deny and Embrace – Ungodliness, worldly passions vs. self-control, uprightness, and godliness.

Wrong Approach to Moral Purity – Fighting sin head-on doesn’t work; it wears us out and leaves us vulnerable.

Right Approach to Moral Purity – Pursuing Jesus transforms desires, replacing sin’s hold with superior joy.

Results of Pursuing Jesus – Freedom, joy, influence, and the life we've always longed for.

Two Applications – Seek forgiveness now; commit to obeying God’s Word as the path to freedom.

Key Takeaways

Sin is deceptive and internal—it disguises itself as a better way and lives within us.

Moral purity cannot be sustained by sheer willpower or prohibition.

Jesus came not only to save but to purify His people for good works.

Pursuing Christ is the only effective path to lasting moral purity.

Right living follows right focus: when Jesus becomes our joy, sin loses its pull.

The goal isn't just to be "clean"—it's to live freely, purposefully, and fully through a relationship with Christ.

Scriptural References

Isaiah 53:6 – “All we like sheep have gone astray…”

Romans 7:15–24 – Paul’s struggle with the evil within.

Titus 2:11–14 – Jesus came to save and purify a people zealous for good deeds.

Luke 11:24–26 – A house swept clean but empty is still vulnerable.

Matthew 5:8 – “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”

Romans 6:23 – “The wages of sin is death…”

1 Timothy 4:12 – Be an example in purity and conduct.

John 10:10 – “I came that they might have life, and have it more abundantly.”

1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful…to forgive…”

Guiding Question

Summary

In this message, Robert Lewis draws a parallel between the emotional farewell of parents dropping their child off at college and the apostle Paul’s final words to the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 16. These “parting words” from Paul are short but charged imperatives meant to prepare the young, struggling Corinthian believers to live faithfully when left to stand on their own.

Lewis opens by summarizing the spiritual condition of the Corinthian church: educated and gifted, yet immature, morally confused, and spiritually wobbly. Then he unpacks Paul’s five closing exhortations in verses 13–14—urging believers to be spiritually alert, to stand firm in their faith, to be courageous, to draw strength from Christ, and to do everything in love.

Each imperative comes with vivid illustrations and real-world applications. The message concludes with a personal challenge: When you’re spiritually alone—at work, at home, or in a crisis—what’s actually true of you? And if it’s not working, are you ready to become something more?

Outline:

Introduction: A Parent’s Parting Words – Connecting college send-offs to Paul’s final exhortations.

Snapshot of the Corinthian Church – Gifted but immature, well-taught but not spiritually grounded.

Paul’s Parting Words (1 Corinthians 16:13–14):

Be spiritually alert – Stay awake to the spiritual realities and threats around you.

Stand firm in the faith – Hold fast to historic Christian truth amid cultural drift.

Be courageous – Take bold leaps of faith and live for eternal rewards.

Be strong (in the Lord) – Draw inner strength from the living presence of Christ.

Do everything in love – Let love temper your convictions and your courage.

Application Challenge – What is true of you when you’re spiritually alone?

Key Takeaways

Living the Christian life means learning to stand alone with strength, courage, and clarity.

Faith requires spiritual alertness in a world filled with subtle and overt threats to your soul.

You must decide if you truly believe “the faith” (historic Christian teaching)—because you can’t stand firm in what you’re not sure of.

The Christian journey involves leaping into faith experiences that feel risky but reveal God’s power.

Inner strength comes not from self, but from Christ alive in you.

Love must guide all your spiritual practices; without it, truth becomes harsh and courage becomes pride.

Scriptural References

1 Corinthians 16:13–14 – Paul’s five imperatives: “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong, let all you do be done in love.”

1 Corinthians 3:1–3 – The Corinthians were spiritual infants.

Hebrews 5:14 – Mature believers have trained their senses to discern good and evil.

2 Thessalonians 2:15 – “Stand firm...and hold to the teachings.”

Ephesians 3:16 – Strengthened with power through the Spirit in the inner man.

Colossians 1:27 – “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

John 14:23 – Jesus promises to make His home with those who love and obey Him.

Recorded 8/8/04