The Increase

We’re less than two years away from our next presidential election, which means 2027 is going to be filled with new books from those who hope to win the Oval Office. In those books, candidates want you to learn about their public policies and personal perspectives.

In Colossians 1, the Apostle Paul shared his personal perspectives on his imprisonment, his mission, and his approach to the Christian life. As you listen to Paul, what lessons can you apply to your Christian life? What outlook does Jesus want you to embrace for your everyday experience?  (Jesus Over Everything, part 5)

After four years of bloody conflict between North and South, Americans nationwide were shocked to learned that the widows of Ulysses S. Grant and Jefferson Davis became the dearest of friends. Their unlikely friendship soon became a symbol of America’s national reconciliation.  

In Colossians 1, the Apostle Paul describes our incredible reconciliation with God, and how it was achieved by Christ. What does the Bible say about how you were changed from a sworn enemy to a faithful friend? (Jesus Over Everything, part 4)

**We apologize for some of the audio static/interference that occurred during this Sunday morning recording.** 

In 2012, the world was shocked to learn that The Mona Lisa has a twin, when a nearly identical painting was uncovered in Madrid, Spain with ties to Leonardo DaVinci.  While art experts agree that The Mona Lisa is one of the world’s great portraits— Bible scholars agree that one of the best portraits of Jesus is in Colossians 1. What does this section of Scripture reveal about the person and power of Jesus? How do these truths impact your life in the here and now? (Jesus Over Everything, part 3)

Ask anyone who enjoys the outdoors, and they will tell you that Autumn is the best season of the year. The air is fresh, the colors are beautiful, and a long walk in nature is just good for the soul.  Did you know that the Bible often compares the Christian life to a long walk? What does Colossians 1 say about a walk that is “fully pleasing” to the Lord? What would a worthy Christian walk look like in your everyday experience?  (Jesus Over Everything, part 2)

The New Testament letter of Colossians teaches Christians to keep “Jesus over everything.”  In the opening paragraph of this powerful letter, Paul was filled with gratitude for these new believers— because of the evidences that proved they were genuine Christians. What are four biblical evidences that affirm and authenticate true Christianity? What evidences should be present in your everyday life?  (Jesus Over Everything, part 1)

Journalists and writers in the news media are trained to never “bury the lede." When a news story breaks, writers and reporters must keep the main thing, the main thing. As we think about churches in America today, the sad truth is that many churches have buried their primary mission under lesser things. What is the main mission, according to Jesus— for your church, my church, and every other church that claims the name of Christ? (Back To Church Sunday 2026)

*A Vision-Casting Message for Wrightsdale Baptist Church*

Most of us would never choose a challenge, but when a challenge comes, we’re often the better for it. In Matthew 14, Jesus put His disciples into a very stressful and challenging situation, but for good reason. As we watch the disciples wrestle with fear, and Peter walking on the water with Jesus, what lessons can you learn for your spiritual development? For every believer who follows Jesus, what elements are included in Jesus’ school of discipleship? (Red Letter Questions, part 5. Conclusion)   

When an encounter with Jesus is recorded in Matthew, Mark, and Luke— you know it’s important. As we study the amazing story of blind Bartimaeus and how he is supernaturally healed by Jesus, what factors contributed to his transformation? How can those same factors positively impact your journey of faith? What red-letter question from this chapter is Jesus asking you? (Red Letter Questions, part 4)

Peter experienced one of the most dramatic downfalls in Scripture, when he denied Jesus three times. But in John 21, Jesus engaged Peter during a breakfast on the beach, and successfully re-reignited Peter’s love and restored him to ministry. What can you learn from this Scripture about loving and serving Jesus? What “red letter” question from this text comes to you today? (Red Letter Questions, part 3) 

During Jesus’ earthly ministry, massive crowds followed Him because they were curious. Among those people, many were convinced that Jesus was a man sent from God. But in Mark chapter 8, Jesus tells His listeners that He is looking for the truly committed. What 'red letter question' did Jesus ask in this chapter that challenges our commitment? What does it really mean to follow Jesus? (Red Letter Questions, part 2)