Latest Lessons

Here are the most recent items added.
April, 2015
Understanding Your Religion

This series presents 7 basic doctrinal ideas that help the viewer have a "big picture" view of the Christian religion. Done in an informal style with helpful graphics and summaries, Understanding Your Religion is a useful guide for those seeking to know what Christians believe and how these beliefs affect what they do.
April, 2015
Rejection and Judgment
In this lesson Mike examines Jesus' response to those who rejected Him. A response that will pronounce a judgment on the religious leaders of that time as well as a long prophetic discourse about the destruction of Jerusalem and His return at the end of the world.
March, 2015
Top 10 Ways to Lose Your Soul
There are many ways a person can lose their salvation once they've obtained it. In this lesson we look at the top 10 ways people lose this precious gift from God.
March, 2015
Who are the Saints?
This final lesson in the series compares the Biblical description of a saint to popular misconceptions of who and what this person should be.
March, 2015
The Role of Women in Ministry
This lesson explores the role of women in ministry and compares the arguments for their participation in full or limited ministry.
March, 2015
Marriage - Divorce - Remarriage
Matthew 19 contains key information about Jesus' teaching concerning marriage and divorce. This study tries to correct certain misunderstandings about what Jesus is actually saying about who is guilty or innocent in these situations.
March, 2015
Leaving Home
Reflect on the transformative power of life's departures and the constant presence of Jesus Christ in times of change and loss.
March, 2015
Payback
Waiting for God's justice to prevail in times of offense not only fulfills His purpose for us and our enemies but also serves as a powerful testimony of faith and trust in His timing and ways.
March, 2015
3 Reasons for Becoming a Disciple
Consider the profound reasons Jesus gives for becoming His disciple and how it can transform your life and secure your eternal future.
March, 2015
Threescore and Ten
Reflect on the profound wisdom shared over 2,700 years ago regarding life's brevity and the importance of making the most of our time on earth.
March, 2015
The Role of the Preacher
This lesson compares the many modern views of the minister to the Biblical description of the role, qualifications and work of a local evangelist.
March, 2015
Relationships in the Kingdom
In this passage Jesus will explain the nature of relationships that people have in the Kingdom and how to repair them when they are broken.
March, 2015
The Selection Process
In this practical lesson, Mike reviews the process that the church can use to select, confirm and appoint deacons and elders in the local congregation.
March, 2015
Ministry to the Masses, Ministry to the Few
Jesus performs miracles for the crowds as well as private demonstrations of His power for His Apostles in order to strengthen their faith and prepare them for His own suffering and death on the cross.
March, 2015
The Laying on of Hands
In this lesson Mike will discuss the symbolism and practice of the laying on of hands from both the Old and New Testament perspective.
March, 2015
The Aroma of Christ
The lesson review the 4 ingredients necessary to create a life (aroma) that is pleasing to God.
February, 2015
The Use of Parables in Jesus' Teaching
This lesson will examine the reasons why Jesus used parables in His teaching ministry and what rules we need to follow in order to understand their original meaning and how to draw applications from them today.
February, 2015
The Role and Work of Deacons
In this lesson we review the role deacons play in the church and also examine I Timothy 3:8-13 which gives some of the qualifications necessary to be considered for the role.
February, 2015
What Money Can't Buy
David calls on everyone to listen to his teaching that it will be beneficial to both rich and poor, that each will have something to learn. Then he goes ahead to list the limits of money.
February, 2015
Jesus Faces Skepticism
Matthew describes the aggressive questioning Jesus would begin to draw from the Jewish religious leaders as His ministry progressed.
February, 2015
The Role and Work of Deacons
In this two part lesson Mike will discuss the Biblical profile of the man who is qualified to serve as Deacon and the nature of his work as well as the limit of his authority.
February, 2015
What Blood Buys
This sermon describes the actual physical and spiritual advantages made possible in a person's life by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.
February, 2015
Names and Mission of the Apostles
Matthew lists the names of those chosen by Jesus to be His special messengers, and reviews the instructions and warnings Jesus gives them before sending them out on their first solo mission.
February, 2015
Why Keep Praying?
A summary of reasons why, despite the delay or doubt that God is hearing us, we must persevere in prayer.
February, 2015
Appointing Elders
In this lesson, we review the few passages that shed light on how elders should be selected, and look at passages that describe the elders' wife.
February, 2015
Jesus' Power
In this section Matthew describes 3 amazing days in Jesus' busy life.
February, 2015
Four Letter Words
This lesson is a call to Christians to purify their language in order to perfect their witness.
January, 2015
The Work of the Elder
This lesson examines not only the work done by Elders but provides a systematic way of gathering this and other information about various topics in the New Testament.
January, 2015
Sermon on the Mount
In this lesson we review the five main topics discussed by Jesus in His Sermon on the Mount.
January, 2015
The Power of Prayer
Many times Christians lose their focus in prayer because of various trials and experiences. This sermon explores several key reasons why one must persevere in this basic spiritual exercise.
January, 2015
Elders: Specific Qualifications
In this lesson, we go from general characteristics to specific qualifications of Elders.
January, 2015
What's in a Name?
The first step in sanitizing immoral behavior usually begins by giving it a new name. This allows its proponents an opportunity to redefine the activity without constant reference to the image created by the previous term.
January, 2015
Beginnings of the Gospel
This lesson begins the comments and explanations of the material that Matthew lists in his opening narrative which include Jesus' genealogy, birth, escape to Egypt and return to Nazareth.
January, 2015
Elders: Character Profile
Aside from the specific Biblical qualifications necessary for a man to serve as an elder in the church, this person also needs to possess certain character traits that will identify him as a worthy candidate. This lesson reviews seven of these traits.
January, 2015
The New Testament Canon
In this lesson we continue to examine background information about Matthew himself and a closer look at the purpose and structure of his book.
January, 2015
The Biblical Model for Church Leadership
This lesson examines the biblical model for church leadership and how these leaders are to relate to the congregation.
January, 2015
Introduction to Matthew's Gospel
This introductory lesson will review the historical, political and social conditions that led up to and include the times in which this gospel record was written.
January, 2015
Moses' Rescue Plan
This sermon describes how Moses' encouraging words to his people seemingly trapped between an advancing army and a raging sea can be used by us today when we are in need of rescue.
January, 2015
Introduction to Church Leadership Roles
Church growth is tied to church leadership. In this introductory lesson, the various Biblical roles of leadership are identified and compared to one another.
January, 2015
Elders, Deacons, Preachers, Saints

This series describes in detail the various biblical leadership roles in the church and examines how these can be exercised in order to promote individual as well as the corporate growth of the church.
January, 2015
Matthew for Beginners

This series provides an in-depth look at the most well-structured gospel record originally designed to address Jewish questions about Jesus but later used by the early church as a primer for new Christians.
December, 2014
Speaking the Word with Boldness
This lesson highlights the idea that the way we share our faith (with power) is as important as the content of our message.
December, 2014
Jesus: Lord of Hopeless Situations
The Bible refers to Jesus in ways that describe His sovereignty (e.g. Lord of the Harvest, Lord of the Sabbath, etc.). In this lesson Mike will explore Jesus' Lordship over the most hopeless of situations in our lives.
December, 2014
Be Ready
In the final lesson on this series Mike summarizes the Apostle Paul's arguments on being ready for Jesus' sure return.
December, 2014
Final Summary
In this last lesson Mike will wrap up this long study by sharing three key lessons taught to us by Genesis.
December, 2014
Too Busy?
In our fast paced society it is often difficult to determine the difference between busy and too busy. The following 7 statements should help busy people (especially Christians).
Devo
December, 2014
When We Respond
When responding to the gospel invitation, remember it's not about giving but about receiving God's mercy through the blood of Christ, offering forgiveness and the gift of the Holy Spirit to all who respond.
Devo
December, 2014
Why I Love my Father – God
Embrace the profound reasons shared for loving the heavenly Father and consider how your own relationship with Him can be enriched through simple acts of faith and devotion.
December, 2014
Jacob's Prophecies
At the end of his life Jacob gives each of his sons a prophecy concerning their future. This event along with the death of both Jacob and Joseph will close out the Genesis record.
December, 2014
The Existence of China
This sermon outlines the process one must undertake to move from unbelief to belief in anything including Christianity.
December, 2014
The Judgment Day
This lesson reviews Jesus' teaching about His return in Matthew 24-25 in order to complement the instructions that Paul provides the Thessalonians on this same subject.
Devo
December, 2014
How to Live Happily
Embrace happiness by living a spiritual life, focusing on today, and honoring your conscience - discover four rules to enhance your lifetime joy and peace.
December, 2014
Family Reunion
This lesson describes the final episode in Joseph's story where Jacob, Joseph and their families are reunited and settled in Egypt.
December, 2014
What is the Deluding Influence?
This lesson examines the nature of God's will and how it accommodates man's will in relation to his ability to choose or reject salvation.
December, 2014
Reunion and Reconciliation
After reuniting with his brothers after a separation of 20 years, Joseph lays a plan that will determine if a reconciliation will be possible.
November, 2014
Who is the Man of Lawlessness?
This lesson examines the various theories put forth to explain the identity of the "Man of Lawlessness" Paul refers to in this epistle.
November, 2014
Thanks and Giving
This lesson helps us to get beyond the turkey and sports to find a deeper meaning for true thanks and giving from a Christian perspective.
November, 2014
Confrontation
Joseph finally confronts his brothers who initially sold him into slavery.
November, 2014
Events Before the Last Day
Paul continues teaching this young church about the events that must occur before Jesus' second coming.
November, 2014
From Prison to Prince
After languishing in prison for several years Joseph is called upon to interpret Pharaoh's dreams and in doing so successfully is transformed from being a prisoner to becoming a prince of Egypt.
November, 2014
Introduction to II Thessalonians
In his second letter to this church, Paul continues to encourage and praise them for their faithfulness and provides even more teaching about the second coming of Christ.
Devo
November, 2014
You Have got to Show it
Understanding the balance between correction and love in relationships is key - delve into the profound insights shared about the transformative power of expressed love in this thoughtful reflection.
November, 2014
The History of Baptism
The two things that the Church of Christ is known for by those who are not members are the fact that we don't use instruments of music in our worship, and we require all to be baptized by immersion. Baptism is not a modern religious invention, it has a history as long as Christianity itself and in this lesson, I'd like to review that with you.
November, 2014
Jude for Beginners

In his short letter Jude warns the church against false teachers and reminds us that all of Christian doctrine has already been given by the Apostles.
November, 2014
Joseph's Story
After explaining Judah's connection to the coming Messiah, the Genesis writers finish their narrative with the telling of Joseph's story.
November, 2014
Soft Rebellion
There are no new arguments in the effort to expand women's role in the church to include those tasks that have traditionally been given to men. Some women want to lead prayer as well as teach and preach in public assemblies and find sup...
November, 2014
The God of the Bible
This lesson dispels the popular notions about God and focuses on the description of God's nature which is revealed only through the Bible.
November, 2014
8 Ways To Be Ready
In the final section of his letter to the Thessalonians Paul outlines eight ways to prepare for the sure return of Jesus Christ.
November, 2014
Judah and Tamar
The story of Jacob's family focuses in on one particular son, Judah, through whom the Messiah would eventually come, and examines his unusual relationship with his daughter-in-law Tamar.
November, 2014
To Change or Overcome?
This sermon explores the two approaches that have been tried in the effort to improve or save this world.
November, 2014
Preparing for the End
In this lesson, Paul outlines the actual order of events that will take place when Jesus returns.
October, 2014
Waiting out the Storm
I was watching the endless rain. Saturday, Sunday and now a third day of gray drizzle continued as I found my way to work on a cold damp Monday morning. Folks came in telling stories of swollen creeks and flooded roads as the earth could no longer soak in the deluge.
October, 2014
And When I Die...
The lesson outlines three important steps in preparing for one's own death.
October, 2014
True Churches
After having laid out the necessary credentials for recognizing true ministers of the gospel, Paul does the same for true churches.
October, 2014
The Beginning of the End
This lesson begins the story of Joseph, Jacob's son with Rachel, who will become the bridge for the family's travel to and 400-year settlement in Egypt.
October, 2014
On the Run Again
After a long period of silence Jacob's story picks up again as his sons cause trouble and we see Jacob in the familiar role of being on the run.
October, 2014
Knowing Your Spiritual Limits
This lesson examines the ways and reasons God limits our opportunities and results in ministry.
October, 2014
True Ministers
In this lesson, Paul defends against attacks by the false teachers in the Thessalonian church by listing the credentials that identify true ministers of God's word in every age.
October, 2014
Jacob and Esau - Round 2
After gathering his wives and children and leaving Laban behind, Jacob faces the dangerous confrontation with his brother Esau who had vowed to kill him because of his deception in the matter of the blessing from Isaac.
October, 2014
Genuine Conversion
In the opening section of his letter Paul, the Apostle, describes the attributes that reveal a genuine conversion to Christ.
October, 2014
Jacob's Family
In this section of Genesis, we learn how Jacob came to have two wives who would, in addition to their female slaves, bear the 12 sons of Jacob.
October, 2014
Jacob Leaves Laban
After 20 years of service, Jacob prepares for his departure from Laban by offering him a potentially lucrative proposal.
October, 2014
I & II Thessalonians

No other book of the Bible gives a clearer sequence and detail of the events surrounding the glorious return of Jesus Christ than the two letters Paul writes to a young church at Thessalonica (Greece) who fear that their departed loved ones will be left behind when that great day comes.
October, 2014
Introduction to I & II Thessalonians
This first lesson will review the history of the city of Thessalonica as well as the circumstances surrounding the writing of these two epistles (letters).
October, 2014
Jesus Above All Else
This lesson warns against the easy complacency Christians become used to when living in peaceful and prosperous times.
September, 2014
School Daze!
The Bible doesn't mention the back to school experience but there are a couple of principles that might make the experience a little smoother for both. Try reading these to each other.
September, 2014
The King's Victory
This final lesson reviews the main events in Jesus' last days on earth.
September, 2014
The Battle for the Blessing
In this lesson, we will see the outcome of Jacob's deceit in obtaining Esau's blessing and how God's will is completed despite the manipulations of men.
September, 2014
How to Witness to Roman Catholics
Roman Catholics have a very distinctive view of Christianity. This lesson explores the best ways to engage and share, with a Catholic, a more biblical approach to the Christian faith.
September, 2014
The Life of Esau and Jacob
After the death of Abraham, the promise is passed on to one of his sons but not without difficulty and division in his family.
September, 2014
Types in Genesis
This lesson reviews some important types or previews that are contained in Genesis and realized centuries later in the New Testament.
September, 2014
The King's Judgment
Chapters 24 and 25 of Matthew contain 3 views that Jesus uses to describe the destruction of Jerusalem, the second coming, and the cycle of devolution present in the world since Adam's sin.
September, 2014
What Angels Teach Us
We don't know much about angels but the little information the Bible does give yields some very important life lessons.
September, 2014
The King's House
Matthew describes the scene as Jesus enters the holy city where He will suffer a series of challenges and rejections culminating in His crucifixion.
September, 2014
Abraham's Test
This lesson leads to the climax of Abraham's journey of faith and describes the events surrounding Sarah's death.
August, 2014
Growing up in Christ
In this sermon Mike describes the normal pattern of growth necessary for a healthy Christian life.
August, 2014
The Kingdom's Loss
In this lesson, Matthew recounts the story of a young man who typifies the greatest loss to the kingdom.
August, 2014
Who is the King?
As the time for His suffering and death draws near Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure by establishing His true identity with them.
August, 2014
The Source of Islam
In chapters 20 and 21 of Genesis, we read about Abraham's continued walk of faith and a description of the people who were the source for the religion of Islam.
August, 2014
Lot's Poor Choices
In this lesson, we see the very real consequences of Lot's choices concerning where he chose to live with his family after separating from Abraham.