Temptation on SermonAudio

One of our temptations in reading Ecclesiastes will be to rescue this book from its uncomfortable and seemingly unbiblical conclusions about life. Our author takes us to the edge of the cliff and then holds us over the precipice. It feels wrong. But only because that's how wrong we are in our attempts to find joy in this life, to find real gain in a world gone wrong. Ecclesiastes 1:12–2:26 is the Preacher's autobiography, a life of searching that holds out a most valuable find: the gift of God for joy in the grind.

Sunday Morning Worship 11/8/26

Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. (Hebrews 7:25) ~~~~ This sermon was preached at Providence Chapel East Peckham on a Lord's Day afternoon. ~~~~ *1/ To whom "he is able." 2/ Why "he is able." 3/ What "he is able" to do.* **Sermon summary:** This sermon examines the declaration in Hebrews 7:25 that Christ is able to save those who come to God through Him to the uttermost. The exposition begins by identifying Melchizedek as a type of Christ, highlighting the union of kingly and priestly offices and the eternal, unchangeable nature of His priesthood which supersedes the Levitical law. The message emphasises that this ability is grounded in Christ's incarnation, sinless life, and substitutionary death, which qualified Him to be the perfect advocate for believers. It further explores the practical implications of this truth, assuring believers that Christ is able to succour them in temptation, keep their souls secure, and ultimately resurrect their bodies. The tone is pastoral and encouraging, urging the audience to rely on Christ's sufficiency rather than their own strength, as He is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that can be asked or thought.

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 2, Proverbs 7 Text: Proverbs 7: 1-5 Ministry of the Word: God's life-giving Word preserves His people from seductive temptation 1. Keep the Word 2. And the Word will Keep you

Do not envy the wicked.

This sermon uses the story of Samson in Judges 16 to illustrate how sinful pleasure creates a spiritual sinkhole that destroys a believer's life. The central message argues that sin begins with uncontrolled desire, which Satan hijacks to lead individuals away from God's will. The preacher outlines a process of indulgence and progression, showing how small compromises escalate into total defeat, as seen in Samson's loss of strength and freedom. The tone is convicting and pastoral, urging the audience, particularly young people, to examine their own desires and hidden struggles. It concludes with a call to immediate repentance, decisive action, and seeking accountability to escape the trap of sin.

On this episode, Pastor Chuck and Dana talk about the main reasons people fall back into their addictions and sins after having gotten free from them in the past.