In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball walk through Matthew 15–18 and show how these chapters form a powerful, connected narrative about Jesus’ kingdom, the heart behind our actions, the value of every believer, and how the church is meant to care for one another. From Jesus confronting empty tradition, to Peter’s confession, the transfiguration, the lost sheep, and the biblical model of restoring a brother or sister, this conversation will help you see Jesus more clearly and understand how His kingdom community is meant to live today.

In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, we walk through Matthew 10–14 and discover how Jesus’ authority reorients everything—our fear, our families, our doubts, and our ministry. From persecution and missionary training in Matthew 10, to John the Baptist’s doubts, Sabbath controversy, the parables of the sower, and the Feeding of the 5,000, you’ll see how Jesus invites us to trust His abundance instead of living with a scarcity mindset. We talk life groups, gospel conversations, and what it means to be a conduit of God’s grace as we “go and feed” the people He’s placed around us.

What does it mean to live under Jesus’ authority? In this conversation, Jay Strother and Brian Ball explore Matthew 8–9—where Jesus heals the sick, calms storms, casts out demons, and calls disciples to follow Him. They unpack how faith recognizes His power, how authority is delegated by God, and how we can respond with humble obedience in our everyday lives. This episode will help you see the King more clearly and follow Him more faithfully.

In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, host Brian Ball is joined by Wade Owens, campus and teaching pastor at the Church at Nolensville, to dive deep into the Gospel of Matthew, focusing on the Sermon on the Mount. Together, they explore chapters 5-7, unpacking Jesus’ revolutionary teachings on discipleship, heart transformation, and authentic Christian living. The discussion covers everything from the Beatitudes and the importance of genuine faith, to spiritual maturity, prayer, generosity, and the challenges of living out kingdom values in a countercultural way. With practical wisdom and encouraging stories, Brian and Wade tackle big questions about judgment, discernment, spiritual fruit, and building a life on the firm foundation of Christ. This episode is filled with thoughtful insights and actionable steps for anyone wanting to grow deeper in faith and follow Jesus with intention.

What does Jesus really mean when He tells us to give, pray, and fast in secret? Why is storing up treasures in heaven the key to freedom from anxiety? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball unpack Matthew 6, showing how Jesus reorients our spiritual practices and daily priorities around His kingdom. Discover the true meaning of kingdom living—and why trusting God with your daily bread changes everything. 

What does it really mean to live the Sermon on the Mount? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball unpack Matthew 5 and explore the true heart of kingdom living—where righteousness flows from the inside out, not external rule-following. From anger and lust to divorce and loving your enemies, this episode challenges cultural norms and reveals how Jesus redefines obedience, relationships, and the radical nature of life in God’s kingdom.

In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, host Jay Strother and guest Brian Ball dive deep into the Sermon on the Mount, unpacking the beginning of Jesus' most famous teaching in the Gospel of Matthew. The conversation explores the historical and theological significance of the Sermon on the Mount, drawing rich parallels between Jesus and Moses, and highlighting the radically countercultural nature of Jesus’ message. Jay and Brian discuss the Beatitudes, emphasizing how they reveal the character traits of kingdom citizens, not as a checklist, but as the natural outworkings of a transformed heart in Christ. They reflect on the idea of blessing, spiritual dependence, humility, and the importance of living as salt and light in a challenging world. The episode offers both accessible insights and practical encouragement for listeners seeking to follow Jesus more faithfully in daily life.

In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball dive deep into the biblical call to discipleship, continuing their journey through the Gospel of Matthew. As they unpack the stories of Jesus calling His first disciples—including fishermen, tax collectors, and skeptics—they explore what it means to follow Jesus with immediate obedience, childlike faith, and a willingness to count the cost.

Jay and Brian reflect on how discipleship in the first century required not just belief, but a total reordering of life—leaving behind jobs, family expectations, and comfort to walk with Jesus. They contrast this radical call with today’s culture of shallow relationships and delayed commitment, offering a powerful reminder that Jesus still calls, and we are still invited to obey. If you're wrestling with what it looks like to truly follow Christ, this conversation is packed with biblical wisdom, pastoral insight, and heartfelt encouragement.

In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, host Jay Strother and guest Brian Ball dive deep into Matthew 4, unpacking the powerful story of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. Building on insights from previous weeks, they explore the connections between Jesus’ experience and the broader storyline of scripture, especially how the Gospel of Matthew highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. The conversation tackles what it means to follow Jesus through times of testing, the reality of spiritual warfare, and how God's Word equips believers to stand firm against temptation. Jay and Brian offer thoughtful reflections on the nature of true identity, the danger of shortcuts, and the importance of grounding oneself in scripture rather than cultural narratives or emotions. With practical applications and rich biblical context, this episode invites listeners to find hope and resilience in Christ’s example and victory.

In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, host Jay Strother is joined by Brian Ball as they kick off a new series diving deep into the Gospel of Matthew. The conversation explores the unique perspective Matthew brings as both a former tax collector and a keen observer of Jewish tradition, highlighting how Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecies and is revealed as the true King. Together, Jay and Brian discuss the historical and religious context of first-century Judaism, the powerful call to repentance issued by John the Baptist, and the importance of understanding and living out the authority and kingship of Jesus in our everyday lives. With plenty of engaging anecdotes and practical applications, this episode sets the stage for a meaningful journey through Matthew’s gospel, encouraging listeners to dig deeper into scripture, embrace repentance, and reflect Christ’s kingdom in their own lives.