What should we, as Christians, pursue? Self-improvement is a popular goal, and there are worthy outcomes in that, to be sure. But much of what we're after is what the Bible calls "striving after the wind," according to Ecclesiastes 2:11. Beginning in verse 8, Peter lists a series of traits worth treasuring. When Christians embrace these traits, with God's help, they mesmerize their society and point the way to Christ. Now, in verses 9-12, we learn about a kind of character that's worth cultivating. It's what makes it possible for joy and suffering to coexist in the life of the Believer, as we'll learn in today's message

The New Testament words for "meekness" are notoriously difficult to define. The character trait has a rich history in pre-Christian Greece and Rome, but it is transformed with the coming of Jesus Christ who describes Himself as "meek and lowly." You will be powerfully convicted by this message; but you will also be urged to, by faith and repentance, bring your heart to the heart of Christ as He is made known in Holy Scripture.

1 Timothy lists the character required to serve as a deacon in Christ's church. These are traits necessary in every Christian but especially essential in those men and women who serve as deacons.

The Laodiceans are accused of being in this deplorable state, and a remedy for their spiritual maladies is pointed out. I. Their moral disease is exposed in its symptoms, its character, and its aggravations. 1. Its symptoms are formality, indecision, listless stupidity, lukewarmness; with all the various traits of those professors of religion who love supremely their temporal interests and private happiness. 2. Its character is thus noted: "Thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked." All these epithets relate to the unsoundness of their foundation. The two first, "wretched and miserable," are general, describing their condition to be lamentable, if not hopeless...

The character traits of a successful employer and that of a successful employee are described in the Holy Bible. The Christian is admonished to remember that whatever his occupation, he is ultimately employed by the Lord Jesus Christ, for it is from Him that we will receive our eternal inheritance and reward.

Who was born with the character trait of Humility? When we accept the free gift of salvation do we become humble? What do we forfeit when we don't display genuine humility? For answers to these questions and others, please listen to "Humility Before Intimacy" by Pastor Jamie.

We live in a post-Christian culture where it is no longer "popular" to be a Christian and confess Christ as Lord openly. The depravity of our society continually attacks Christian beliefs, and sadly the church is not immune to deception. In this section of Acts 8:4-24, Luke describes the first self-deceived or false convert in the book of Acts. In this narrative, two character traits accompanying false conversion are observed with their conclusion as the result of one who truly does not believe and confesses Jesus is Lord. We see this in the life, and false conversion of Simon as these three sections are described as: 1. Ego 2. Excitement 3. Exile Join Dr. Jago as he exposits this section of Acts and challenges Christians everywhere concerning the genuineness of their profession, ensuring it is followed by the actual transformation of the individual in pursuit of Christ.

This sermon presents a comprehensive theological and practical examination of the qualifications for church leadership, emphasizing the sacred responsibility of bishops and deacons as divinely appointed roles within the local church. Drawing from 1 Timothy 3, it underscores that leadership must be rooted in moral integrity, spiritual maturity, and a life of faithful service, with specific emphasis on character traits such as blamelessness, self-control, hospitality, and a good reputation among non-believers. The passage highlights the dangers of pride and the necessity of humility, particularly for those in leadership, while affirming the church as the pillar and ground of truth—a divinely instituted institution essential for spiritual growth and witness. The sermon culminates in a profound exposition of Christ's deity in verse 16, affirming His incarnation, divine justification, angelic ministry, global proclamation, and exaltation, thereby establishing the foundation of Christian faith. Ultimately, the message calls the congregation to uphold biblical standards, support godly leadership, and remain anchored in the truth of Christ's divine nature and the church's vital role in God's redemptive plan.

Meditations on humility as an essential trait of our Christian character, life and service.

An overview of the biblical qualifications for elder/overseer previously discussed more deeply in January 2022 and the character traits Christians are to emulate.