Search

The Spirit that is in me is Greater than the Spirit that is in AI!

The title says it all, doesn't it? All the fuss and handwringing over the Artificial Intelligence phenomena is quite anxiety producing for unbelievers.

Essentials of Salvation

Part 2

We will explore another essential aspect of salvation and address common questions and criticisms that arise when asserting that certain elements are crucial for salvation.

Acts 4:12

18. Can You Lose the Holy Spirit?

Learn about the temporary empowerment of individuals by the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament and the caution against quenching the Spirit's work through continual willful sin in the New Testament.

19. Is it Possible to Blaspheme the Holy Spirit nowadays?

Learn about the concept of blaspheming the Holy Spirit and its implications for salvation by understanding the significance of attributing the work and word of God to Satan.

20. What is the Difference Between the 'indwelling' and the 'empowerment' of the Holy Spirit?

Understanding the difference between the 'indwelling' and 'empowerment' of the Holy Spirit sheds light on the spiritual gifts received through baptism and the laying on of hands by the Apostles, illustrating the transition from miraculous abilities to the enduring teachings of the New Testament.

12. Does the Holy Spirit Only Dwell in Us Through the Word of God?

In this message, we look into the dynamic indwelling of the Holy Spirit which also brings up the topic of division.

Why Does the Church of Christ Sing?

This lesson will review the biblical foundation and historical record that establish vocal singing as the Spirit ordained manner of musical praise in public worship.

Shalom

This sermon delves into the concept of peace, highlighting the importance of finding lasting peace through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the necessity of forgiveness in achieving true peace in all aspects of life.

John 14:25-31

Evangelism and the Life of the Church

Do You Know My Jesus?

I'll share with you how the Holy Spirit evangelized me and what this has meant in my life.

Tongues Today - #1

This first lesson of two, delves into the biblical context of speaking in tongues, focusing on its significance in the early church. It examines the purpose of tongues as a spiritual gift and the conditions surrounding its use. The discussion aims to clarify misunderstandings about tongues, providing a foundation for evaluating its practice in contemporary worship settings.

Tongues Today - #2

Mike examines the modern practice of speaking in tongues in light of biblical teaching. He explains the original purpose of tongues in the early church and discusses how its use today differs from the New Testament pattern. The lesson invites viewers to consider whether tongues are still relevant or necessary in contemporary Christian worship.

Praying in the Spirit

Delve into the profound essence of the soul and its emanations.

Sooner Spirit

The thrilling victory scored over Nebraska is sure to keep Sooner fans happy for a long time to come. Aside from an excellent effort by the Norman squad, their play reminded me of the larger game of Christian living and what we need to remember when facing our greatest opponent, Satan and his forces:

Ali's Final Weigh-In

Recently, ex-boxing champ Muhammad Ali died, and the media is filled with praise for both his athletic accomplishments, which are richly deserved, and his "social activism."

Jesus' Ancestors

Explore the diverse and intriguing genealogy of Jesus, from patriarchs to prostitutes, kings to idolaters, and Gentiles to Jews, showcasing God's redemptive plan through a lineage filled with both the faithful and the fallen.

Matthew 1:1-17

The Blessings of Obedience

Embrace the blessings of obedience to God, leading to a life filled with peace, joy, and the promise of eternal salvation.

The Doubting Nun

The recent publishing of Mother Teresa's letters filled with doubt and despair has led many to either praise or pity her. I, along with leading atheist Christopher Hitchens, feel great pity for this brave woman but for different reasons.

The "Out"rageous Games

Montreal is hosting and quite proud of the "Out" games this week. Newspapers are filled with pictures of men in drag, women holding hands, and announcements of great parties featuring "Gay" themes. All in the name of human rights, diversity, and sports.

Biblical Baptism

Bible Basics

Explore the essential elements of biblical salvation, from the significance of repentance as a transformative relationship with Christ to the diverse and debated views on baptism, and discover the unified doctrine presented in the New Testament.

Acts 2:38

31. Does Speaking in Tongues Still Take Place Today?

Discover the truth about speaking in tongues and the Holy Spirit's role in the believer's life in this insightful lesson that delves into the historical context and modern-day practices.

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.

Waterworld

Water in movies like "Waterworld" and its biblical significance as a symbol of judgment, purification, and separation, offers a unique perspective on the importance of water in spiritual truths.

Pro's and Con's of Promise Keepers

A group called Promise Keepers is discussed, highlighting both positive and negative aspects of the movement, urging individuals to examine teachings in light of Scripture and consider the importance of staying true to biblical principles.

Difficult Decisions

Reflecting on the recent events in the congregation, the sermon delivered by the church leader emphasizes the importance of following biblical teachings and supporting the decisions made by the elders, urging individuals to make difficult decisions and move forward in unity.

How to Correct Sinful Christians

Mike emphasizes the importance of addressing the struggles of sin within the church community, particularly for long-standing Christians, while shifting the focus from evangelism to support and guidance for those already in the faith, using Paul's letter to the Corinthians as a foundational reference.

How Should We Worship God?

In discussing worship, there exists a tension between progressive believers who seek a modern expression of worship and traditionalists who believe in preserving established methods, while many in the middle simply desire to express their love for God in a sincere and communal way, emphasizing that true worship transcends worldly norms and is fundamentally about honoring God.

The Beauty of the Cross

In the book of Joshua, we see a parallel to our own journey of faith, where despite the sure promise of salvation, we are encouraged to be strong and courageous in facing the challenges of leading others to Christ and overcoming our own weaknesses and doubts.

8. Top Ten Things that Kill Church Growth

In this lesson we examine 10 things that hinder church growth.

Brown Bag Christmas

Mike reflects on the Christmas season's approach, noting its lack of biblical endorsement, its pagan origins, and how various customs associated with Christmas have been reinterpreted to hold Christian significance, emphasizing the need to prepare spiritually for the holiday despite its historical complexities.

Protecting our Unity

We are united into one group because God has separated us from the world and formed a special body of people who all share a special set of characteristics.

Drawing Near to God

Part 2

As Christians we have many challenges before us. Prayer and fasting is the best way we can present these before God.

James 4:8-10

Feelin' Fine in 99

Learn how to feel better and improve your life by following these 7 steps shared in a heartfelt sermon.

Callings

In both the Old and New Testaments, God calls people for unique purposes—from leaders and prophets in ancient Israel to Mary, Joseph, and the apostles in the New Testament—emphasizing that, while the age of miraculous callings has ended, God still calls individuals today through Scripture to salvation, sanctification, service, and perseverance.

5 Things We Do in Worship

There are 5 things found in the New Testament that God will accept as true worship to Him.

The Light of Choctaw

The text emphasizes the importance of shining as a light in the darkness, just as Moses instructed the people to do, showcasing obedience to God's word as a means to elevate and set apart believers from the pagan world, ultimately leading to the arrival of Jesus Christ as the brightest light.

Celebrating the "Giving" in Thanksgiving

Mike explains why giving is the essential ingredient in thanksgiving.

Loneliness

Loneliness is a catchword for a variety of feelings associated with being by oneself. The "feelings" associated with being alone are usually caused by the reasons why a person finds themselves alone to begin with.

Freedom Through Dependance

Understanding the concept of mutual dependency for freedom and peace, this excerpt delves into the importance of dependence on God and each other, highlighting the true freedoms enjoyed as citizens of the kingdom of heaven.

Deacons: Men of Dignity and High Standing

This lesson will examine the role and qualifications of the men who serve as deacons in the local church.

Multiplying Ministries

The Boston Church

The Boston Movement has been described as a classic Christian aberration or a cult, prompting the need for condemnation and vigilance within the church community.

Moderation and Abstinence

Highlighting the dangers of moderation in promoting vices, the speaker emphasizes the importance of abstaining from alcohol for health, addiction, financial, and legal reasons, urging Christians to seek higher standards and avoid enslavement to worldly habits.

Field of Dreams

Mike envisions a congregation that leads by example in holy living, growth, service, and evangelism, inspiring others to follow suit and build upon this vision for the future.

John 4:34-35