In this message from Hebrews 13, Pastor Greg Barkman gives a warning about a sin that seems small to men, but is large to God and is a destructive force to mankind.

The sermon explores James 1:5-8, teaching that believers can count it all joy during trials by seeking divine wisdom through prayer. It defines wisdom as thinking in alignment with God's perspective and emphasizes asking God generously without reproach. The preacher warns against doubting, comparing the double-minded person to a wave tossed by the wind, and clarifies that faith relies on God's character rather than human effort. True prayer aligns with God's will, allowing believers to participate in His work and grow in Christlikeness. Ultimately, Jesus Christ is identified as the embodiment of God's wisdom, calling listeners to rely on Him daily.

 Central point: Believers have a high priest (Jesus) seated at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.  Contrast with Mosaic/Aaronic priesthood: earthly sacrifices, inability to sit in holy place; Christ ministers directly in God's presence.  Christ's ministry transcends earthly altars; only baptism and the Lord's Supper are prescribed physical elements in worship.  Fulfillment of types: Melchizedek (priest-king), Zechariah 6:13, Isaiah 6; Christ as priest, king, and prophet.  Warning against idolatry of physical forms, modern inventions, medicine, and statues; uphold the second commandment.  Critique of Roman Catholicism and certain Anglican practices for added physical forms and views on mediation/deification.  Encouragement: Christ's ascension and session guarantee hope; His cosmic ministry is not bound by time.

This sermon examines Acts 3:1-10 to illustrate that Christ provides spiritual life to those who are entirely helpless, rather than merely assisting them. The preacher argues that the lame man's inability to walk mirrors humanity's total depravity and need for regeneration by grace alone. By contrasting religious familiarity with genuine faith, the text warns against substituting knowledge of God for a personal relationship with Him. The healing serves as an enacted prophecy of the kingdom, demonstrating that salvation is intended to restore believers to active worship and glorify God. Ultimately, the transformed life of the healed man stands as the strongest apologetic for the power of the gospel.

The sermon expounds on Psalm 97 to affirm the absolute sovereignty and righteous reign of God over all creation. It contrasts God's eternal control with human limitations, emphasizing that His rule is founded on holiness and justice rather than reactive power. The preacher warns against idolatry, defining idols as anything that displaces God in one's affections, and calls for a hatred of evil rooted in love for the Lord. Despite earthly tribulations and the futility of worldly powers, believers are exhorted to trust in God's providence and find joy in His unchanging nature. The message concludes with an encouragement to rest in the assurance that God preserves His saints and will ultimately bring glory to Himself.

Jesus is coming soon. We must be watchful. Listen as Pastor Brian explains more about what happens next and how to be ready.

(AI Generated Summary) The sermon examines the intensity of divine judgment described in Luke 21, identifying the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD as the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy regarding the abomination of desolation. The preacher argues that the language of unparalleled tribulation functions as a Jewish rhetorical device to signify the final and complete execution of Old Covenant curses against a rebellious nation. Historical accounts from Josephus corroborate this view, illustrating how the siege resulted in such extreme distress that it marked the end of Israel's national identity under the old covenant. The text emphasizes that God's wrath was both just and comprehensive, serving as a warning to cling only to Christ rather than earthly or ethnic security. Ultimately, the message calls believers to heed the command to flee spiritual desolation by placing their faith solely in the Son, who holds all authority and judgment.

Main Points 1. God invites people to come to Him; He is always faithful. 2. God desires genuine faithfulness from His people, but they are often unfaithful to Him. This sermon explores Hosea 6 to contrast God's unwavering faithfulness with the shallow, short-lived repentance of Israel. It emphasizes that God invites sinners back through discipline and desires genuine knowledge of Him rather than empty religious rituals. The preacher warns against worldly sorrow that produces regret instead of true change in action. Ultimately, the message encourages listeners to humble themselves and return to God, trusting in His promise to forgive and restore those who seek Him sincerely.