The shame of sin is not erased by ignoring it. The shame of sin is overcome by confessing and repenting of sin. Dear Christian, there is forgiveness and restoration in Christ alone.

From the sermon: Sanctity of Life, Romans 6:20-23

Listen to the full sermon: https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom/romans-6-20-26

Anything that denies the sanctity of life is motivated by a desire to elevate personal freedom over God's authority. Abortion promises sexual freedom, economic freedom, and freedom to attain gender equality. However, these false freedoms do not deliver what they promise. The fruit of sin is enslavement to more sin, shame and guilt before God, and death. Dear friends, there is no true freedom in rebellion against God. Freedom is only found in righteousness before God.

From the sermon: Sanctity of Life, Romans 6:20-23

Listen to the full sermon: https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom/romans-6-20-26

The absurdity of Satan’s lies is that such theft, death, and destruction are preferable to righteousness in Christ. The end result of every sin is personal destruction, relational destruction, destruction of others, and community destruction. Dear friends, see abortion for what it is – a lie that brings death and destruction.

From the sermon: Sanctity of Life, Romans 6:20-23

Listen to the full sermon: https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom/romans-6-20-26

A clip from the sermon, Sing to the Lord, Psalm 13. Pastor Ben Smith tells the story of Willams Cowper, who greatly struggled with depression and mental health issues. Cowper also wrote the hymn God Moves in a Mysterious Way

Links to listen to the full sermon:

https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom/psalm-13

Sermon notes: https://www.bensmithsr.org/store/p/psalm-13

A clip from the sermon, Sing to the Lord, Psalm 13. Pastor Ben Smith encourages you to rejoice in the hope of the gospel.

Links to listen to the full sermon:

https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom/psalm-13

Sermon notes: https://www.bensmithsr.org/store/p/psalm-13

A clip from the sermon, Sing to the Lord, Psalm 13. Pastor Ben Smith encourages you not to be ruled by emotions but to seek to understand all things according to the truth of God.

Links to listen to the full sermon:

https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom/psalm-13

Sermon notes: https://www.bensmithsr.org/store/p/psalm-13

During the Christmas season, there is much gift-giving. You may receive heartfelt gifts that speak to the sweetness and goodness of a friendship. You may also receive impersonal obligatory gifts that feel more transactional than relational. The greatest gift ever given or received is the gift and offering of Jesus for the redemption of sinners. It is a gift given to the undeserving. It is a gift that cannot be repaid. It is a gift that flows from the will of God, who loved you before the foundation of the world.

The battle at the Alamo and the cry “Remember the Alamo” coalesced a people for a political cause.

But Christians have a greater cry.

 “Remember Jesus Christ” is not a political statement; it is not a defiant cry against a tyrant, nor a celebration of a historical event. “Remember Jesus Christ” is the heart cry of a people living in a sin-corrupted world rejoicing that Jesus has already won the victory over sin and death. “Remember Jesus Christ” is the heart cry of a people who have counted the cost and are giving everything they have to make Christ known. “Remember Jesus Christ” is the heart cry of those who may be tempted with discouragement but have placed their hope in the promises of the gospel and the faithfulness of God.

What is holding you back from Jesus? What do you fear? What of the world do you love? What temporary pursuits are you chasing after? What worthless pride are you holding on to? What is it that you love more than the gospel of Jesus?

I know this - whatever keeps you from Jesus today is not worth it.

The image of a train leaving the station has long been a helpful image for a present opportunity. When the train arrives, you have the opportunity to get on. However, this opportunity will not last. The train will leave, and when it does, you will lose the opportunity to travel.

How many will miss the opportunity to get on board because they are too tied to the luggage on the loading dock? Weighed down by concerns and worldly affection other than the departing train, they will miss the opportunity. Likewise, how many will miss the opportunity of salvation? Clinging tight to the affections and concerns of this world, many will miss the gift of salvation.

Now is the day of salvation.