This sermon explores the return of the Ark of the Covenant in 1 Samuel 6, using the miraculous journey of untrained cows to illustrate God's sovereign providence. The preacher emphasizes that true obedience often involves sorrow and emotional struggle, yet believers must remain steadfast on the straight path directed by God. It highlights how divine encounters frequently occur within ordinary daily duties, urging listeners to view their routine work as an opportunity for service and worship. The message warns against mistaking outward splendor or mere spectatorship for genuine spiritual reality, insisting that restored mercies should lead to renewed consecration rather than simple nostalgia. Ultimately, the text points to Christ's victory over death as the ultimate proof of God's power, calling believers to faithful labor and remembrance of past blessings to strengthen present faith.

Pensacola Christian College Chapel Archive- Hal Hightower, October 18, 2016

The sermon contrasts the apparent power of Pharaoh's Egypt with the spiritual superiority of Jacob, illustrating that true greatness lies in faith rather than worldly wealth. It highlights how God sustains His people through famine, turning a crisis into an opportunity for divine provision and the preservation of the covenant line. The narrative emphasizes the believer's identity as a pilgrim sojourning through a transient world toward an eternal home. By examining Jacob's blessing of Pharaoh and his final request to be buried in Canaan, the message underscores that God's people remain distinct from and superior to earthly kingdoms. Ultimately, the text affirms that while worldly powers may rise and fall, God's faithfulness ensures the flourishing of His church and the fulfillment of His promises.

The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, **preaching peace by Jesus Christ:** (he is Lord of all:) (Acts 10:36) ~~~~~ This sermon was preached at Providence Chapel, Birkenhead. ~~~~~ *1/ The need of peace. 2/ Conditions laid down by God for peace. 3/ Through whom peace is made. 4/ The means by which it is made know and conveyed.* **Sermon summary:** The sermon explores the theological significance of Peter's address to Cornelius, emphasizing that God sends peace through Jesus Christ as Lord of all. It highlights divine providence in bringing preacher and audience together for salvation, noting that human works like prayer are honoured but do not save. The text outlines the necessary conditions for peace, including Christ's substitutionary atonement and faith and repentance. It further distinguishes between peace with God, peace with others, and inner spiritual tranquillity found only in trusting Jesus. Finally, it asserts that the preaching of the Gospel is the ordained means by which this saving peace is conveyed to sinners.

Love Under Pressure (1 Peter 4:8-9) The sermon explores the command to maintain fervent love within the Christian community, particularly when facing external hostility and internal friction. It emphasizes that this love must be supreme, actively stretched to accommodate difficult personalities, and capable of covering a multitude of minor offenses without magnifying them. The message further highlights the necessity of practicing hospitality toward strangers and newcomers without grumbling, viewing such service as an extension of Christ's own welcome. By rejecting self-centeredness and gossip, believers are called to reflect God's grace and preserve the unity of the church as a household of faith.

The sermon examines the final miracle of Jesus in John 21, where the disciples catch a multitude of fish after failing to do so on their own. This event serves as a powerful reminder that spiritual fruitfulness depends entirely on Christ's power rather than human effort or tradition. The preacher emphasizes that just as the disciples could not succeed without His command, believers must rely on divine strength for effective ministry and salvation. By reflecting on past encounters with God, the congregation is encouraged to trust in His sovereignty and recognize their role as laborers working together with Him. Ultimately, the message affirms that success in the Christian life is found only through abiding in Jesus Christ.