The sermon examines the biblical account of Simon of Cyrene being compelled to carry Jesus' cross, using this event as a profound illustration of the Christian life. It emphasizes that following Jesus requires self-denial and the willingness to endure suffering, shame, and death to sin. The preacher argues that cross-bearing is not optional but a mandatory requirement for all true disciples. The message challenges listeners to count the cost of discipleship and reject superficial faith. Ultimately, it calls believers to faithfully follow Christ in every circumstance, trusting in the grace that sustains them through the cross.

Sermon: Faith That Makes a Family Sermon Text: Romans 4:9-12 Series: The Power of God for Salvation (Romans) The sermon expounds on Romans 4 to establish that justification is received by faith alone, independent of religious rituals or ethnic heritage. Using Abraham as the primary example, the preacher demonstrates that God credited righteousness to him before he was circumcised, proving that external signs like baptism do not confer salvation. The message warns against relying on church affiliation, good works, or sacraments for standing before God, emphasizing instead that trust in Christ is the sole instrument of pardon. This doctrine unites believers from all backgrounds into a spiritual family, sharing Abraham as their common father through shared faith rather than biology or ritual. Consequently, true Christians are called to live out costly commitment and obedience as a response to this grace, reflecting the unity and responsibility of being part of God's family.

No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. (John 6:44) *1/ The way of salvation - coming unto Jesus - "Come to me" 2/ The way all come that do come - Drawn by the Father through the Holy Spirit. 3/ The means used to draw sinners to Christ.* **Sermon summary:** The sermon expounds on John 6:44, emphasizing that no one can come to Jesus unless the Father draws them. It outlines three key aspects of salvation: the exclusive way through Christ, the sovereign work of the Holy Spirit in drawing believers, and the various means God uses, such as preaching and trials, to attract sinners. The preacher highlights that this divine drawing is an act of irresistible grace, distinct from human effort or natural attraction. Believers are encouraged to recognize their dependence on God's power for salvation and to trust in His promise to raise them up at the last day. The message concludes with a call to rest solely in Christ as the only path to eternal life.

This sermon explores the dual narratives of Jairus and the bleeding woman in Mark chapter five to illustrate the nature of genuine faith. It emphasizes that true belief arises from recognizing one's own desperation and neediness rather than self-sufficiency. The preacher highlights Jesus' power over sickness and death, showing how He restores identity and offers peace to those who trust in Him. The message encourages listeners to move beyond mere proximity to Christ toward a deep, active faith that trusts His mercy even in hopeless situations. Ultimately, the sermon asserts that all things are ultimately healed through faith in Jesus, pointing to the future restoration of God's kingdom.

The sermon examines Malachi 2:10-16 to expose two critical betrayals within the covenant community: intermarriage with idolaters and the unjust divorce of faithful wives. It argues that these actions profane the Mosaic covenant, violate the bond of companionship established by God, and disrupt the unity of believers. The text emphasizes that worship is rejected when accompanied by treacherous behavior, highlighting God's hatred for divorce as an act of violence against one's spouse. Drawing parallels to the New Covenant, the message urges believers to marry only within the faith and to honor marriage vows as sacred covenants witnessed by God. Ultimately, the preacher calls the congregation to reject individualism, recognize their interconnectedness in the body of Christ, and trust in God's wisdom regarding relationships.

Spiritual health requires diligent effort and self-discipline empowered by God's grace, rather than passive reliance on divine favor alone. It identifies faith as the primary spiritual exercise, which is cultivated through three specific disciplines: meditating on Scripture, engaging in biblical prayer, and participating in genuine fellowship with other believers. We must move beyond merely hearing sermons to actively applying God's Word to our daily lives through focused meditation and practical obedience. This active pursuit of godliness transforms the Christian life from a routine obligation into a vigorous act of trust and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, spiritual maturity is achieved by consistently exercising faith in God's promises and commands amidst the challenges of the present age.

The sermon examines Hosea chapter seven, using the metaphor of Ephraim as a silly dove to illustrate Israel's spiritual foolishness and lack of discernment. It highlights how the nation blinded itself by pride and reliance on foreign alliances with Egypt and Assyria rather than seeking God for protection. The preacher contrasts this misplaced trust in worldly security with the biblical warnings of inevitable judgment found in Leviticus, Deuteronomy, and 2 Kings. Emphasizing that spiritual decay often goes unnoticed until it is too late, the text urges listeners to recognize their own tendency to run from divine correction. Ultimately, the message calls for humble repentance and a return to total dependence on God instead of self-sufficiency.

The sermon explores the theological significance of Israel's journey from the wilderness of Sin to Rephidim, framing their physical movement as a metaphor for progressive sanctification. It contrasts the people's faithless testing of God with the proper posture of humble trust and prayer that honors His name. By examining Moses as a type of Christ, the preacher highlights how Jesus serves as the ultimate mediator who bears judgment so believers might receive grace. The message urges listeners to reject arrogance and false accusations against God, instead relying on His sovereign providence in every detail of life. Ultimately, it calls for a faith that seeks to glorify God rather than demanding He serve human needs.

The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it. (Psalms 68:11) ~~~~~ A Lord's Day Afternoon Service. ~~~~~ **Sermon Summary:** The sermon explores the divine origin of Scripture and preaching through the lens of Psalm 68:11, emphasizing that God actively gives His Word for various purposes. It highlights how providence aligns with biblical truth to provide assurance, direction, reproof, and comfort to believers. The text underscores the authority of the Great Commission and the inspiration of Scripture as historical facts grounded in Christ's redemptive work. By examining specific instances where God provided guidance or correction, the message encourages listeners to trust in the sovereign hand behind every preached word. Ultimately, it affirms that the Gospel is a gift of grace that saves and sustains those who receive it with faith.