Latest Lessons
Here are the most recent items added.
January, 2016
#7 - Pride
The sin of Pride comes in at 7th place in our Sins and Struggles survey. This lesson will examine the roots of pride, how it is expressed, why it is a sin and ways to deal with this common problem.
January, 2016
The Meaning of Grace
In this final lesson from Peter's first epistle, Mike will review the last of grace's enabling features, Christian service and how Peter says that the leaders of the church should embody this virtue.
January, 2016
The Power of Praise
Mike explains what worship and praise do for those who participate, no matter who you are or how many have gathered in the name of the Lord.
January, 2016
The Meaning of Grace
Peter continues to list the various ways God's grace affects Christians. In this section, he describes the suffering many Christians experience because of their faith and how to properly respond when it does.
January, 2016
The Glory of the Church of Christ
The writer completes this great homage to Christ with some final thoughts on holy living and a final word of encouragement and greeting.
January, 2016
#8 - Cursing and Gossiping
Two sins tied for position number 8 in our survey. Mike will discuss the root cause of each, what the Bible says about these sins, and have some practical ways to manage and overcome these in our everyday lives.
January, 2016
Lessons from the Flood
During a trip to help clean up in Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina, I spoke to and interviewed over 500 people about the effect that these hurricanes had on them and the resulting lessons I learned from the flood.
January, 2016
The Meaning of Grace
Peter continues to describe the very real effects of grace on a Christian's character by cultivating a more submissive heart.
January, 2016
#9 - Anger
In this lesson Mike profiles 3 Biblical characters and described how each dealt with the problem of anger.
January, 2016
The Glory of the Church of Christ
The author continues his description of the type of people who belong in Christ's Church as those who have a holy lifestyle.
January, 2016
Multiplying by Faith
People use different methods to fulfill their needs. In this lesson, we will see that the way we use to see to our needs largely determines how well they are met.
January, 2016
The Meaning of Grace
This lesson demonstrates how grace produces a new sobriety in one's soul and the natural spiritual outcome of this new influence.
January, 2016
Powerball Fever
The applied math site DurangoBill.com explains what the recent changes in Powerball lottery rulings meant for the "players" who buy tickets...
January, 2016
7 Lessons from a 7 Day Cold
I have happily recovered from a nasty cold that never seemed to end. The experience led me to think about some very basic things that even the common cold can teach us.
January, 2016
#10 - Laziness
This class will explore the mindset of the lazy person, how this sin affects a person and how to deal with laziness in one's life.
January, 2016
The Glory of the Church of Christ
In this lesson Mike diagrams and explains the famous chapter that describes the 'heroes of faith.'
January, 2016
The Challenge of Change
Change is very difficult. Whether it's changing a habit or attitude or job or city - change is always a challenge, and change is even more difficult when it's imposed on us suddenly or without our approval.
January, 2016
The Meaning of Grace
This introductory lesson on Peter's first epistle examines the many facets of Peter's life and begins exploring the different meanings this Apostle attributed to God's grace.
January, 2016
Top Ten Sins and Struggles
The Bible teaches that everyone is guilty of sin but not necessarily the same sin. This series examines the most common sins and struggles that Mike has encountered in over thirty-five years of ministry, and provides practical advice on how to recognize and deal with these successfully.
December, 2015
The Almighty or the Almighty Dollar
This lesson looks at the dangers of materialism and the need to establish spiritual priorities in order to guard against the influence of the world.
December, 2015
The Three Marys
In this lesson, Mike describes the relationships between three Mary's and how they ended up at the cross of Christ.
December, 2015
The Glory of the Church of Christ
Having finished describing Jesus' glorious life and ministry the author now focuses on the type of church that carries His glorious name.
December, 2015
I & II Peter
Fisherman, Apostle, Elder, Martyr. The unique experience of Peter forms his teachings on the power of God's grace and the urgent need of the church to prepare for the return of Christ in all ages. From an ancient source comes a relevant message for the modern Christian.
December, 2015
The 7 Blessings of Salvation
In this sermon, Mike enumerates and explains the benefits that believers receive and experience as 'saved' people.
December, 2015
The Life and Times of Hezekiah
Mike wraps up this series with a final lesson on Hezekiah by reviewing how God's grace was extended to this great man's physical and moral weakness.
December, 2015
Jesus: Greater than the Jewish Religion
In the final part of the first section of Hebrews, the writer summarizes the reasons why Jesus' ministry is superior to that of the Jewish High Priest but also that the results of the Lord's ministry on behalf of all men yields a superior final result.
December, 2015
The Life and Times of Hezekiah
Mike continues the study on King Hezekiah with a look at this leader's greatest victory coming at his nation's worst moment.
December, 2015
Jesus: Greater than the Jewish Religion
This lesson demonstrates how Jesus' ministry was superior to that of the Jewish High Priest in its service to the people by producing superior results.
December, 2015
Restoring the True Christmas Spirit
Preparing the minds and hearts of Christians for the materialism, confusion, and conflict that often arises at a time when there should be peace, joy and love in the world.
December, 2015
The Life and Times of Hezekiah
Hezekiah has long been used as a model for revival and restoration. In this lesson, we look at the basic principles of revival that we learn from Hezekiah's life and times.
December, 2015
Jesus: Greater than the Jewish Religion
In this lesson, the author will review Jesus' work as High Priest, not only His credentials to serve in this role.
December, 2015
Who is the Greatest?
Reflect on the true essence of greatness and how it aligns with the kingdom of God, as Jesus taught his disciples, emphasizing the virtues of becoming like little children and faithful servants rather than seeking worldly recognition.
November, 2015
Reward and Punishment
When I was in Junior High my English teacher taught our class how to write a "precis". A precis is a shortened version of an essay or article that maintains the meaning of the original piece of writing.
November, 2015
Church was Made for Man not Man for Church
Understanding the true purpose of church attendance as a means to glorify God and witness for Christ can bring deeper meaning to your Sundays and inspire motivation throughout the week.
November, 2015
Canadian Thanksgiving
This lesson looks at the relationship between the national holiday of "Thanksgiving" and the ongoing gratitude that all Christians have which nourishes their faith.
November, 2015
Solomon's Strategy for Success
Solomon lays out 7 easy to understand principles that promote success in any area of one's life here on earth.
November, 2015
King Hanun's Suspicious Mind
An obscure pagan king teaches every generation a lesson about the dangers of having an overly suspicious attitude.
November, 2015
Jesus: Greater than Aaron
In this final section on Melchizedek, the writer explains the relationship between Aaron, Melchizedek and Jesus.
November, 2015
David's Charge to Solomon
David's final charge to his son provides timeless wisdom for the changing of the guard in church leadership.
November, 2015
Jesus: Greater than Aaron
In this lesson, Mike examines the passages that demonstrate that Christianity's priesthood is superior to the Aaronic priesthood.
November, 2015
The Acappella Church
Mike reviews the reasons why the Churches of Christ do not use instruments of music in the public worship services.
November, 2015
A Model for Repentance
Mike looks at David's 39th psalm and how the author outlines the various steps leading to true and sincere repentance.
November, 2015
Jesus: Greater than Aaron
This lesson examines what the writer of Hebrews says about the 4th element of the Jewish religion, the priesthood, and especially the High Priest.
November, 2015
Slave or Free?
In Romans chapters 7 and 8 the Apostle Paul zeros in on one of the most perplexing questions concerning our experience with sin - are we slaves of it or are we free from it? Understanding the answer to this question usually dictates the quality of life we have as Christians.
November, 2015
David and Abigail
The story of David's relationship with Abigail highlights a time when he nearly ruined his potential reign as king and reveals the character of one of the Bible's most remarkable women.
October, 2015
Christian is a Christian
I recently baptized our eldest grandson, Christian. He is nine years old and because of his age I had some hesitation before going ahead with his baptism.
October, 2015
Jesus: Greater than Moses
Mike begins to develop the Hebrew writer's next argument for Christianity's superiority over Judaism - Jesus' greater authority than Moses.
October, 2015
Getting Even Without Getting Into Trouble
A Christian's guide in dealing with personal offense and the desire to seek revenge.
October, 2015
Giant-Killer
This lesson describes the dramatic entrance of young David to the stage of Israel's history and recounts the model story from which all later 'underdog' narratives are taken.
October, 2015
Jesus: Greater than the Angels
After demonstrating from Scripture that Jesus is greater than the angels, the author focuses on what Jesus accomplished when, for a while, He took a position lower than angels.
October, 2015
King Saul
This final lesson traces King Saul's sad decline into madness and ignoble death at the hands of the enemy he was originally sent to defeat.
October, 2015
Jesus: Greater than the Angels
In this section the Hebrew writer lists the many passages in the Old Testament that demonstrate Jesus' exalted position above the angels.
October, 2015
Gross vs. Godly
Mike reviews the three main reasons why the trend towards gross material in media and society in general will never win out over what is godly.
October, 2015
King Saul
This second lesson examines the various patterns of behavior that lead to King Saul's eventual downfall.
October, 2015
Introduction to Hebrews
This first lesson in the series establishes the historical and religious context for the writing of this book.
October, 2015
Hebrews
Originally written for Jewish converts to Christianity, the book of Hebrews describes the many ways Jesus and the religion of Christianity fulfilled and surpassed the elements and practice of the Jewish faith.
October, 2015
Why Do the Righteous Suffer?
This sermon looks at the very real reasons why everyone, even the very good, suffers and what is ultimately gained by experiences of sorrow and pain.
October, 2015
King Saul
Saul, the first King of Israel, provides a lesson on what not to do when given blessings and privileges by God.
October, 2015
Drifting Away
Recognize the signs of drifting away from faith and find the courage to reverse it by prioritizing your spiritual life daily.
September, 2015
The Celebrity Pope
Pope Francis has good teeth. I noticed this about him in a picture connected with his recent visit to the U.S. This is as it should be for one who strives to be the new face of the Catholic church witnessed by the carefully choreographed Papal appearances in New York and other cities recently.
September, 2015
Going with God
In this sermon Mike explores the types of feelings experienced when one is in a personal and intimate relationship with God.
September, 2015
The Passion
In this last class in the series, Mike will focus on the key passages that describe Jesus' death, burial and resurrection - an experience referred to as the Lord's "Passion."
September, 2015
Principles of Good Stewardship
In this sermon Mike reviews the broader implications of stewardship beyond the simple giving of money.
September, 2015
The Doctrine of the Second Coming - Part 2
In this last lesson of the series, Mike reviews key passages about the end-times in the New Testament and provides a summary of the four main "Millennial" teaching positions.
September, 2015
Final Teachings
In the last hours before His suffering Jesus will provide teaching concerning the judgment coming on the Jewish nation, and how His Apostles will remember Him after He is gone.
September, 2015
Lessons from the Kings
This series explores the lives of both good and bad Jewish rulers in order to find timeless lessons that can be applied to Christian life today.
September, 2015
Jesus Describes the End
In this next to last lesson, Mike tackles Christianity's most exciting and complex doctrine - the events and timing of the return of Jesus and the end of the world as we know it.
September, 2015
Wait on God
Learn from Jacob's experience the valuable lesson of waiting on the Lord to avoid costly mistakes, develop godly character, and go with God's approval in all aspects of life.
September, 2015
Praise: A Mark of God's People
This lesson explores the motivation that creates a heart tuned to worship and praise.
September, 2015
Final Confrontations
As the time for Jesus' death grows near Mark recounts several confrontations with various Jewish leaders and groups that will seal their rejection of Him as their Messiah.
Church 101
September, 2015
Top Ten Things that Kill Church Growth
In this lesson we examine 10 things that hinder church growth.
August, 2015
Why Judas Fell
This lesson explores the series of decisions and weaknesses that led one of Jesus' chosen Apostles to commit history's most treacherous act.
August, 2015
The Kingdom of Heaven on Earth
In this lesson, Mike reviews the development of the idea of 'Kingdom' in the Bible as well as the understanding of this idea in the secular world throughout history.
August, 2015
Advanced Training
Now that the Apostles have acknowledged Jesus' true identity as the Son of God, the Lord begins more in-depth teaching on the subjects of His mission and the nature of His Kingdom.
August, 2015
What to do When They Don't Accept You
Reflect on how Jesus overcame rejection and find comfort in knowing that God has a plan to reach your loved ones with the message of salvation, even if you feel unsuccessful in your efforts.
August, 2015
Life-Testing
The 'student-friendly' testing methods of today don't adequately prepare young people for the real life testing they will encounter after school is over. Mike discusses three such life tests.
August, 2015
The Role of Baptism and Communion
In this lesson, Mike answers four of the most asked questions about the role of baptism in the process of salvation.
August, 2015
Lessons for Hard Times
Gain valuable insights on navigating through hard times and strengthening your faith by reflecting on the lessons learned from 35 years of marriage and ministry.
August, 2015
Truth, Tradition and Other Miracles
In this section of Mark's gospel, the writer uses the miracles where Jesus heals the blind and deaf as a preview of the opening of the Apostles' unbelieving eyes and ears.
August, 2015
Goaltending
In this sermon Mike compares some of the priorities important in his hockey playing days to the ordering of goals in every day christian living.
August, 2015
The Role of Baptism
In this lesson, Mike reviews the "summary" doctrine of Salvation and how water baptism fits into the context of all 10 sub-doctrines that explain the reconciliation of God and Man.
August, 2015
Jesus: Lord of All
In this section of Mark's gospel, the author profiles four powerful situations where those who witness Christ's power believe in Him as Lord and Savior.
August, 2015
The Process of Sanctification
This lesson examines common errors made in teaching the doctrine of sanctification, and provides a guide to the stages of this spiritual process in each Christian.
August, 2015
Advice on Leaving Home
Fall brings with it the start of school and for many students bound for college, their first experience of living away from family. In this lesson Mike provides some wise advice from the Bible for those leaving home for whatever reason.
August, 2015
How Mankind Becomes Holy
The doctrine of sanctification provides a view of salvation from an "inward" perspective and explains how God enables mankind to share in His holiness.
July, 2015
Encounters and Parables
In this lesson, we get an overview of how Mark sets out to prove his opening declaration that Jesus is the Son of God.
July, 2015
God's New Vision of Mankind
This lesson explains why and how God now sees mankind in a different light.
July, 2015
Jesus the Divine
From the opening verse, we immediately see Mark's goal of presenting Jesus as a divine being through the witness of His teaching and miracles.
July, 2015
Becoming Acceptable to God (continued)
The doctrine of Justification explains how God resolves the legal dilemma in justifying guilty sinners without compromising the Law.
July, 2015
The Wrong Side of History
Mike reviews the Supreme Court's recent ruling on same-sex marriage and lays out a proper Christian response to this change in the nation's moral order.
July, 2015
Becoming Acceptable to God
This lesson seeks to understand God's plan of salvation from a legal perspective.
July, 2015
Introduction and Background
The first lesson in this series reviews the background information on the author of this gospel and the style he uses in presenting Jesus' life and ministry.
July, 2015
Mark for Beginners
Mark's gospel is a rapid-fire account of Jesus' ministry focusing primarily on His many miracles. This eyewitness account presents the boldest and clearest witness of Jesus' identity as the Son of God with power!
July, 2015
Living Temples
This sermon looks at some of the things parents must do in order to prepare their children for a life of faith.
July, 2015
Becoming Children of God
This lesson begins an explanation of those sub-doctrines that describe God's plan of salvation from different perspectives.
June, 2015
What Growing Churches Believe
All churches can and do experience growth but there are core beliefs that promote the growth of those churches that strive to do Bible things in Bible ways.
June, 2015
A New Life in Christ
Once a person is redeemed from sin, he can live a new life. This lesson explains the very different lifestyle of the regenerated person.
June, 2015
A Child's Glory
Understanding the profound impact of fatherly glory on identity and self-worth, this text delves into the importance of children embracing the inherent glory passed down by their fathers for a sense of worth and purpose in life.
June, 2015
What Atonement Achieves
Mike will explain the difference between the act of Atonement and its natural result of Redemption.
June, 2015
Why Wait For Eternal Life
We think eternal life is the "good life" transported to another place and made to continue without end.