In this powerful message exploring Judges 19-21, we confront one of the Bible's darkest narratives and discover how it mirrors our own spiritual condition without Christ. Through the tragic story of the Levite and his concubine, we see the devastating results of a society where "everyone did what was right in their own eyes."

But this message doesn't leave us in despair—it pivots to the transformative power of having Christ as our King, beautifully illustrated through a fresh perspective on communion.

Rather than approaching the Lord's table in a spirit of penance, we learn to celebrate it as those who have been found, freed, and forever changed by our perfect King.

In this message we explore Judges 13-16, as we delve into the complex story of Samson.

This sermon unpacks how our perceived strengths can often become our greatest weaknesses, and how true strength is found in acknowledging our weakness before God.Key Points:

• The danger of reckless overconfidence

• The perils of impulsive indulgence

• The importance of teachability and community

• How pride leads to isolation

We'll examine Samson's life as a mirror to our own, challenging us to confront our weaknesses and find redemption in Christ. This message offers a fresh perspective on a familiar Bible story, revealing how God's power is perfected in our weakness.

Whether you're struggling with self-reliance or seeking to deepen your faith, this sermon provides valuable insights for your spiritual journey. Join us as we learn to find our true strength in Christ!

In this sermon, we dive into the story of Gideon from Judges 6-8, exploring the transformative journey of a seemingly fearful man into a mighty leader empowered by God. We delve into the themes of destroying the enemy among us, discerning the enemy around us, and redirecting the enemy within us. Drawing parallels between Gideon's courage and modern faith challenges, this podcast encourages us to lean into God's power despite our inadequacies. Like Gideon preparing to face the Midianites, we are called to confront the cultural and spiritual forces that seek to undermine our faith. Pastor [Name] uses the story of gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik to illustrate how perseverance and reliance on God’s strength lead to unexpected victories. Join us as we learn to overcome personal and external struggles by trusting in God's sovereignty and embracing our role in His greater plan. Fix your eyes on Jesus—destroy the idols of today, discern the true struggles around you, and redirect your inner battles toward God's victory.

In this compelling episode, we dive into the dramatic narrative of Judges 4 and 5, exploring how God uses unexpected heroes to bring about His victory. Through the stories of Deborah, Barak, and Jael, we uncover powerful lessons about leadership, courage, and faith in the face of overwhelming odds.

Our pastor unpacks this rich biblical text, revealing: • The danger of spiritual complacency and compromise • God's surprising strategies in battle • The critical role of women in ministry and leadership • The devastating effects of apathy in our faith and communities • How even simple acts of obedience can bring glory to God

This message challenges us all - men and women alike - to step up, lead courageously, and trust in God's plan, even when it doesn't make sense to us. Whether you're feeling called to action or struggling with apathy, this sermon offers insights that will encourage and inspire you to live out your faith boldly.

Join us as we learn how, in the midst of our perceived 'kinglessness,' we are more 'kinged' than we've ever been through Christ's rule and reign. Don't miss this powerful exploration of how God works through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.

Steel City Church: Learning and living the ways of Jesus together.

We continue our series "Kingless: Flawed Heroes, Faithful God" with the sermon titled "Ehud: The Unexpected Rescue by the Unexpected Rescuer," focusing on Judges 3:12-30. In this message, we explore the story of Ehud, a seemingly unlikely hero, who delivers Israel from oppression by the Moabites through an unexpected and daring rescue. Drawing a parallel with the story of Desmond Doss from "Hacksaw Ridge," Pastor illuminates how Ehud, despite being overlooked and underestimated, brings victory and peace to God's people. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder that God often uses unexpected means and unlikely individuals to fulfill His purposes and demonstrate His faithfulness.

The sermon delves into the patterns of rebellion, retribution, and rescue that are prevalent in Judges, revealing how the Israelites' disobedience led to their subjugation. Yet, in their distress, God raised up Ehud, who, despite his flaws and societal disdain, faithfully delivered them, bringing 80 years of peace. Through this story, the congregation is encouraged to reflect on their own identities, cultural influences, and the true source of their worth. Just as Ehud's actions pointed to a greater deliverer, Jesus Christ, we are reminded that in our weaknesses, God's power is made perfect, offering us honor and innocence in place of shame and guilt. The sermon concludes with a call to live out our God-given identities, influencing our culture with the faithfulness exemplified by Christ.

On September 1, 2024, Steel City Church will embark on a profound journey through the book of Judges with the series titled "Kingless: Flawed Heroes, Faithful God." Kicking off with an introduction sermon, "A Familiar Foreign Land," this message will set the stage with a compelling analogy from the famous 1956 chess game between Bobby Fischer and Donald Byrne. Just as Fischer's sacrificial move demonstrated the critical importance of the king in chess, this sermon will explore the consequences faced by Israel when they deemed themselves kingless and pursued what was right in their own eyes. Despite Israel's descent into chaos and sin, the sovereignty of God shines through as He raises flawed heroes to guide His people, ultimately pointing to a greater Hero, Jesus Christ.

This introductory sermon will offer a candid look into Judges 1-3:6, highlighting three recurring themes: rebellion, retribution, and rescue. The narrative opens with Israel's backstory—from their escape from Egypt to entering the promised land under Joshua's leadership. The sermon will tackle the profound generational impact of forsaking God, as illustrated by Judges 2:10-19, where a new generation rose that did not "know" the Lord. Through raw and introspective questions, attendees will be invited to reflect on their own spiritual state: are they committed, complacent, or compromising? As the series unfolds, the congregation will be encouraged to recognize the cyclical nature of Israel's rebellion and the merciful interventions of God. This series not only exposes the human condition but challenges the church today to live under the authority of the true King, learning dependence and obedience to His commandments.

"Growing as a Worshipper - REST," based on Matthew 11:28-30. This sermon will underscore the pressures of modern life and the transformative power of embracing rest in Jesus. Through the lens of biblical truths, such as the eternal purpose of rest evident in Genesis and the redemptive rest promised in Deuteronomy, the sermon will reveal God's call to cease spiritual self-efforts and trust in His sustaining power. Mike Breen's profound insight, "We are to work from our rest, not rest from our work," serves as a touchstone for understanding this invitation. By tracing rest from creation to Christ's ultimate fulfillment in Hebrews, attendees will discover the deep spiritual relief available through Jesus.

In exploring Matthew 11:28-30, the sermon will highlight Jesus's invitation to the weary and burdened, offering a kind yoke and light burden as an alternative to the oppressive demands of life. Through vivid analogies and personal stories, the teaching will illustrate the profound relief found in Christ's promises. We are challenged and encouraged to recognize their own weariness and burdens and to embrace the gentle, lowly heart of Jesus. The message will drive home that resting in God transcends physical relaxation, urging followers to cease their spiritual striving, trust in God's provision, and build rhythms of rest that foster spiritual growth and communion with Him.

In this sermon, we delve deeply into Psalm 30, exploring the timeless lessons it offers on communing with God through both trials and triumphs. We'll reflect on David's heartfelt praises and his bold, honest prayers during difficult times, understanding how he commits to gratitude despite adversities. Whether you've experienced mountaintop confidence or valley despair, this episode encourages you to seek God's presence and embrace His everlasting favor.

Join us as we uncover three impactful lessons from Psalm 30, urging believers to praise God for the great things He has done, to seek Him in the valleys of life, and to commit to worshiping Him in all circumstances. With practical applications and poignant reflections, this episode aims to deepen your relationship with God, strengthen your faith, and inspire you to live joyfully in His presence through every season of life.

In this powerful sermon, our pastor unpacks the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well. Discover how Jesus' declarations about Himself and about us can transform our understanding of worship, identity, and purpose.

Key points:

Join us as we explore how what Jesus declares changes what we declare about Him and about ourselves. Learn how to step outside your comfort zone and grow as a worshiper of Jesus.

Based on John 4:1-26 (ESV)

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In this sermon we explored the enduring message of running the race of faith with perseverance, as drawn from Hebrews 12:1-11. This week, we highlight the heartwarming story of Derek Redmond and his father's support during the 1992 Barcelona Olympics to illustrate the importance of enduring through faith and relying on God's discipline.