Second Thoughts with Austin Gentry

Second Baptist Church - Houston, TX | There are certain prayers that God does not answer; because if He did, He would be reinforcing our own sin and destructive habits. Here's why we ought to submit to his general, clear Word before asking for a special, specific word. 

Second Baptist Church - Houston, TX | The letter of Philemon is Paul's shortest letter in the New Testament, but perhaps his most conversational and impactful about how the gospel bears on day-to-day Christian living and relationships. In only 335 words, Paul gives a compelling answer for how to reconcile with one another, and in doing so, refresh our relationship with God in Christ.

Second Baptist Church - Houston, TX | The church at Colossae was navigating through the delicate, yet demanding, distinctions and decisions of falsehood and truth. But even more than that, their confusion with their own Old Testament presented a point of contention. Paul gives resolution and clarity--precisely what they needed to hear back then, and what we need to hear today, too. 

Second Baptist Church - Houston, TX | Paul's letter to the church at Colossae is one of exhortation that right believing leads to right living. Paul shows us how to approach doctrine, what is the right doctrine about Jesus Christ, and what is the right doctrine about salvation. 

Second Baptist Church - Houston, TX | Paul ends his letter to the church at Philippi by ending on the high note of contentment. According to Paul, it is the highest demonstration of applying the gospel to our lives, and also the highest demonstration of what it means to partner with other believers for the kingdom's sake.

Second Baptist Church - Houston, TX | Paul's letter to the Philippians is all about gospel partnership; and in the following letter, he addresses many facets of partnership. In chapter 4, he shows the church how to navigate through the inevitability of disputes that will still allow for continued, future partnership together.

Second Baptist Church - Houston, TX | The Apostle Paul indicates that there is only two ways to build an identity, and therefore, grow as a person and believer: Finding our identity in our own resume, or in Christ's righteousness. Philippians 3 shows where each foundation leads.

Second Baptist Church - Houston, TX | In his letter to the Philippian believers, he encourages them that God has a 'rather-more' grace in store. While suffering might reveal wrong motives, it can also refine us in more ways than we can imagine. What if your suffering was about more than just you? 

Second Baptist Church - Houston, TX |  Paul's message to the church at Philippi is one of gospel partnership, joy, and gratitude. As he shows us, partnership is critical to perseverance in our walk with Christ. 

Second Baptist Church - Houston, TX | Death is the only certainty of life. Under the sun, the grave is unfair; its purpose is evil and madness. But under heaven, grace is unfair; and death is is redeemed for good.