The Ashland St. Pulpit

🎙 Podcast Episode: The Ministry of John the Baptist

Text: Matthew 11:12–16; Matthew 3

“Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them.” – William Shakespeare

🔑 Main Idea:

John the Baptist was marked by a divine promise, a prophetic voice, and a powerful mission.

1. An Amazing Promise

📖 Luke 1:15a – “He shall be great in the sight of the Lord.” God called John to greatness—His kind of greatness.

2. An Astonishing Pattern

📖 John 1:23 – “I am the voice...” John embraced his prophetic identity—pointing others to Christ.

3. An Advancing Program

📖 Matthew 28:19–20 John’s ministry of baptism paved the way for Christ’s Great Commission.

🗣 Three Ministry Marks

I. Outreach – Matthew 3:1–3

• Repentance
• Return
• Regional Impact

II. Out Cry

• Active
• Bold
• Targeted

III. Output – Matthew 3:7–10

• Rebuke of Hypocrisy
• Call to Fruitful Repentance
• Warning of Judgment

🎯 Final Thought: John's biggest heart desires was to please Christ

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I. They Had to Let Go of the Past

• Older men remembered the grandeur, gold, and glory of the first temple.
• But living in the past blinded them to what God wanted to do next.
• Acts 2:17 reminds us: God still has a future work!

➔ As long as their minds stayed on the past, they had no hope for the future.

II. They Had to Embrace the Present

(Ezra 3:11)

• Living in the past robbed them of today’s blessings.
• Story of William Randolph Hearst: sometimes we already possess the treasures we’re seeking!
• The people’s mixed emotions sent a confusing message (Ezra 3:13, 1 Corinthians 14:8).

➔ They squandered the opportunity to finish God’s work.

• They delayed for 15 years (Haggai 1:1–5).

➔ Today is our time to obey (John 9:4).

III. They Had to Believe in the Promise

(Haggai 2:9)

• God promised:“The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former...”
• The real glory was the presence of Jesus Himself (Acts 5:20, 5:42).

Final Challenge:

➔ Don’t live in the past. ➔ Don’t waste today. ➔ Trust the promises of God!

Church Website: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/

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Title: Moments that Changed Isaiah’s LifeScripture Reference: Isaiah 6 (KJV)

In this episode, we explore the defining spiritual encounter that changed the course of the prophet Isaiah’s life. Drawing from Isaiah chapter 6, we reflect on Isaiah's vision of the Lord, his conviction of sin, and his commission to serve.

• The Vision of God's Glory (vv. 1–4): Isaiah sees the Lord exalted on His throne, surrounded by seraphim declaring His holiness.
• Isaiah's Conviction and Confession (v. 5): Overwhelmed by God’s holiness, Isaiah cries out in awareness of his sin and unworthiness.
• Cleansing and Forgiveness (vv. 6–7): A seraph touches Isaiah’s lips with a live coal, signifying his sins being purged.
• The Call and Commission (v. 8): God asks, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah responds with the iconic words: “Here am I; send me.”

Church Website: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/

Podcast Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/the-ashland-...

Facebook: / asbcarchdale

The Bible Believe's Program https://open.spotify.com/show/3R76FeN

Reasons to be thankful for the Lord's Table:

I. Focus on Christ (v.21)

• “You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of devils.”
• The Lord’s Table refocuses our hearts on Jesus’ sacrifice.
• 🔑 “The Lord’s Table is the refocus button for your Christian life.”

II. Fellowship with Believers (v.17)

• “We being many are one bread, and one body.”
• A reminder to walk in unity—no division, no bitterness.
• 🔑 “If you’re not right with someone, make it right.”

III. Forsake All Idols (v.18, 21)

• Idols = anything that competes with Christ.
• Avoid objects, media, or habits with demonic influence.
• 🔑 “You cannot worship at the altar of Jesus and the altar of devils.”

IV. The Call to Separation (2 Cor. 6:17)

• Believers must be distinct from the world.
• Separate from ungodly relationships and influences.
• 🔑 “You are the temple of the Living God.”

V. Real-Life Testimony

• A church member removed idols from his home—peace returned.
• 🔑 “He threw every idol in a bag—and the next day, peace came.”

VI. Final Reflection Questions:

1. Is Jesus the main focus of your life?
2. Is there someone you need to reconcile with?
3. Is there an idol or influence you need to forsake?

How to know for sure you are going to Heaven: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/...

Church Website: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/

Podcast Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/the-ashland-...

Facebook: / asbcarchdale

The Bible Believe's Program https://open.spotify.com/show/3R76FeN

Sited work:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l06HXbOSR4k

In this episode, we explore the four compromises Pharaoh offered God’s people—and how they mirror the subtle ways the world still tempts believers today. God doesn’t call us to partial obedience, but to full surrender. Don’t settle for Egypt’s deals—choose full separation and devotion.

Quick Episode Notes:

1. Sacrifice in the Land – Serve God, but stay worldly.
2. Don’t Go Far Away – Be saved, but don’t get “too spiritual.”
3. Only the Men Go – Serve God, but leave your family out.
4. Leave Your Possessions – Go to church, but don’t give your all.

🗝️ “There shall not an hoof be left behind.” – Exodus 10:26

How to know for sure you are going to Heaven: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/...

Church Website: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/

Podcast Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/the-ashland-...

Facebook: / asbcarchdale

The Bible Believe's Program https://open.spotify.com/show/3R76FeN...

This special Easter episode highlights the meaning, message, and personal impact of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It’s not just a historical event—it’s a life-changing reality!

How to know for sure you are going to Heaven: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/...

Church Website: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/

Podcast Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/the-ashland-...

Facebook: / asbcarchdale

The Bible Believe's Program https://open.spotify.com/show/3R76FeN...

“Speak for Yourself”

Text: Acts 26:1, 12–16

🔹 Intro Highlights:

• Paul on trial – not just defending, but witnessing.
• King Agrippa – acknowledged truth but didn’t accept it.
• Paul’s testimony – powerful and personal.

1️⃣ The Purpose (v.16–18)

“I have appeared unto thee for this purpose…”

• Paul’s life & mission changed at salvation.
• Serving others: Opening eyes, turning from darkness to light.

2️⃣ The Promptness (v.19–20)

• Paul obeyed immediately when God spoke.
• Obedience = evidence of transformation.

3️⃣ The Providence (v.22)

“Having therefore obtained help of God...”

• Without God: dead or in the dungeon.
• With God: help, purpose, and boldness.
• We need His help — in life, ministry, family.

4️⃣ The Prophecy (v.23)

• Christ’s resurrection: unlike any other — He rose to never die again.
• Fulfillment of prophecy = hope for us.

5️⃣ The Persuaded

• Paul believed God could use his story.
• Your story matters too.

📝 Illustrations:

• Henry Heinz – declared his faith in his will.
• John Geddie – left Canada, changed an island.

They told their stories. Will you?

Today, we are in one of my favorite parts of Exodus the frog story. So we hope you in joy this lesson on why don't have to spend another night with the frogs.

Exodus 8:8-12

King James Version

8 Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron, and said, Intreat the Lord, that he may take away the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people go, that they may do sacrifice unto the Lord.

9 And Moses said unto Pharaoh, Glory over me: when shall I intreat for thee, and for thy servants, and for thy people, to destroy the frogs from thee and thy houses, that they may remain in the river only?

10 And he said, To morrow. And he said, Be it according to thy word: that thou mayest know that there is none like unto the Lord our God.

11 And the frogs shall depart from thee, and from thy houses, and from thy servants, and from thy people; they shall remain in the river only.

12 And Moses and Aaron went out from Pharaoh: and Moses cried unto the Lord because of the frogs which he had brought against Pharaoh.

How to know for sure you are going to Heaven: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/...

Church Website: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/

Podcast Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/the-ashland-...

Facebook: / asbcarchdale

The Bible Believe's Program https://open.spotify.com/show/3R76FeN...

Thank you for listening to the Ashland St. Pulpit.

‘’The Followers of Easter’’

Text: The Book of John

Outline:

1. Judas - The one who Deceives. (13:24-30)

There are always some who are in it for them.

For the child of God it should be what can I give.

James 1:22c

'' deceiving yourselves.''

1 Corinthians 3:18

"Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise."

He was Trusted with money

He had Terrible Motives

He had Truly missed the Master

He spent all that time with Jesus with out excepting Jesus.

1. Peter - The one who Denies. (18:15-18;25-27)

He claimed reclienence

His character was revealed

His carelessness caused regret

A true follower doesn’t deny him but we will deny yourself.

1. Thomas- The one who Doubts (20:24-31)

John 20:27

• God restore my confidence in you

Proverbs 3:26

For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.

• Which one are you?

I must confess we missed a very important follower in our search this morning.

Close: Joseph - The one who Decided

(John 19:38-42)

• There was a day he doubted
• There was time he deceived and though he was doing right hiding his relationship with Jesus.

• There may have been times he also denied

• But at crunch time he decided he wasn’t gonna leave Jesus hanging

Let us leave like Joseph Deciding to be the follower he wants us to be.

How to know for sure you are going to Heaven: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/...

Church Website: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/

‘’Don’t Leave Jesus Behind’’ -Text: Luke 2:41-52-

Why Did Mary & Joseph Leave Jesus Behind?

1. Distracted by Religion (vs. 41-42)
   • They followed tradition but missed true relationship.
   • Church attendance alone doesn’t make you a good Christian.
   • The presence of Jesus isn’t a box to check—it’s a life to live (Col. 3:3-4, Matt. 22:37-38, Gal. 2:20).
   • When was the last time you truly felt God’s presence?
2. Displaced by Supposition (vs. 43-44)
   • They assumed Jesus was with them—but He wasn’t.
   • Wrong thinking leads to wrong conclusions.
   • We can lie to ourselves and to God, but we must be honest to find Him (James 4:6-8).
3. A Discerning Reunion (vs. 47-52)
   • The Amazement: People were astonished by Jesus.
   • The Accusation: “Why have You dealt with us this way?”
   • The Answer: Jesus never moved—we did.

Conclusion:

• Don’t leave Jesus behind in your daily life.
• He hasn’t changed; He’s where He has always been.

How to know for sure you are going to Heaven: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/...

Church Website: https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/

Podcast Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/the-ashland-...

Facebook: / asbcarchdale

The Bible Believe's Program https://open.spotify.com/show/3R76FeN...