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Giving
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The Grace of Giving My Most Dangerous Sermon Why is Giving More Blessed Than Receiving? Thanks and Giving
Celebrating the "Giving" in Thanksgiving
Mike explains why giving is the essential ingredient in thanksgiving.
Wholly Devoted Sacrificial Giving
Why We Struggle
The sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance and spiritual growth within the congregation, urging members to prioritize Bible reading, church involvement, and submission to leadership to overcome struggles and move forward.
Sure or Unsure?
When feeling unsure about your faith, it's comforting to know that even great men like Elijah and David experienced doubt, as highlighted in this insightful message on navigating uncertainty in Christianity.
Miracle Grow
To achieve church growth, one must commit to biblical preaching, evangelism, regular worship, loving fellowship, and sacrificial service, as outlined in this insightful sermon.
Giving God 100% Motivated Giving Seeing the Unseen Victim or Victor? The 7 Blessings of Salvation
How to Avoid Materialism
Materialism is a very subtle attack against our faith, against our soul. It creeps into your life because we have to deal every day with material. In this lesson, we will look at ways to beat it.
The Last Supper - In Round
What You Should 'Get' Out of Worship
In this sermon, Mike challenges the common attitude of assessing church attendance based on personal gain, arguing that church life should involve both giving and receiving; specifically, attendees should experience a genuine sense of God's presence during worship, beyond mere obligation or habit.
Concerning the Collection Principles of the Plate
How to Manage Your Donations
Giving our Best to God The Power of Giving A Practical Plan for Generous Giving It's Not Easy Being A Mother
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.
What Would We be Doing
A sermon reflecting on the potential for greater works in the church, urging for visionary leadership, commitment, and willingness to pay the price to achieve what could be done.
Money Matters - Part 2
Understanding the true value of money and its role in our lives is crucial for a balanced perspective, as highlighted in this insightful excerpt on financial stewardship and faith.
The Consequences of our Choices
What we choose in life often indicates where we are at in our development and what we really want.
The Joy of Church Attendance God Has Planned Something Better for Us
The Single Priority
This sermon discusses the challenges faced by single individuals and the importance of recognizing their state and priorities, offering insights on how to navigate the single life with a focus on serving the Lord and finding fulfillment.
Realizing the Vision
In 1997, the church in Choctaw focuses on personal salvation and readiness for Christ's return, encouraging each individual to be a regular Bible reader and actively participate in church activities to maintain unity and spiritual growth.
Growing Pains
Mike shares his journey of growth, from gaining weight to building a church, emphasizing the principle of "no growth without pain" in various aspects of life, urging the congregation to embrace challenges for future opportunities.
Cultivating Obedience What to do with the Rebel Child Total Conversion Philoxenos Restoring the True Christmas Spirit God Provides at Mt. Moriah What Money Can't Buy Speaking the Word with Boldness
What Will it Take
Hezekiah, the king of Judah, provides a valuable lesson on the importance of sanctified leadership in achieving ambitious construction projects and building a strong community.
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.
Feelin' Fine in 99
Learn how to feel better and improve your life by following these 7 steps shared in a heartfelt sermon.
Characteristics of Church
The importance of following the pattern theology for church growth is highlighted through the three pillars of preaching the gospel, teaching Christ's commands, and fostering a fellowship among believers, as discussed in Acts chapter 2.
Brown Bag Christmas
4. The Preacher's Job Description
In I Corinthians 14, Paul mentions that there are three primary tasks that the apostle lists concerning the work of the preacher.
I Corinthians 14:3
It's Our Turn
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
Everybody Has a War to Fight
Discover how to engage in the vital spiritual battle we're called to fight and learn how Jesus equips us with the resources we need, whether as parents, students, or ministers, to overcome our unique challenges.
Principles of Good Stewardship Response of Grace The Gospel in the Old Testament Sarai and Hagar's Conflict / Abram and Circumcision A Pattern for Sound Teaching Drawing Closer Why is Thanksgiving important? What is Maturity? Reassurance for New Elders
Money Matters - Part 1
Mike delves into the importance of money matters and how Christians should acquire and use money in a proper and ethical manner, emphasizing the significance of giving thanks, providing for family needs, and helping others in need.
Grass Wisdom
Appreciate the wisdom shared on maintaining your lawn and drawing parallels with church work, highlighting the importance of focusing on the green, nurturing growth, and giving a light touch to both grass and people.
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.
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.
What's in a Name?
From Pattern to Calendar
How Israel Learned the Sabbath
The Sabbath in Exodus 16 was learned through experience, not calculation, as God marked the seventh day by withholding provision, establishing a rhythm of work and rest that was unmistakable and continuous for Israel.
Exodus 16
From Pattern to Calendar
Why People Quit The Acappella Church Pass the Salt The Cracked Cup Pruning the Church Christianity Christ: The Power and Wisdom of God Honor Thy Mother The Upward Call Why Judas Fell Multiplying by Faith Going with God The Almighty or the Almighty Dollar The Remote Control Life Peter's PR Plan Fervent in Worship
Small Beginnings
Zechariah, the prophet, encourages Zerubbabel with prophecies from the Lord during the rebuilding of the temple, highlighting the importance of relying on God's strength and resources rather than man's power, a message that resonates with overcoming obstacles in our own lives.
Zechariah 4:1-10
Death - Ruth's Example
Even in the face of grief and loss, Christians find comfort in the hope of resurrection, trusting in God's promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
I Corinthians 15
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.
Summer Sun or Son
Emphasizing the importance of maintaining faithfulness and spiritual growth amidst the allure of sunny weather and outdoor activities, this excerpt encourages readers to reflect on their priorities and commitment to serving the Son of God.
Heart Beat Away
True greatness is just a heartbeat away, but hesitation, pride, and delay can keep us from it. Don't just come close—embrace the call, obey Christ, and step into the eternal glory that awaits.
Loneliness How Christians Succeed Christians and Christmas Faithful Through Failure Jesus: My Shepherd Very Real Blessings Truth or Consequences The Mary of the Bible Do Not Grow Weary You Know You're a Christian When... From Religion to Conversion The Changeless Role of Women Use the System! The Holy Spirit and Christmas Bringing Home the Prodigals Testing the Spirits Benevolence Why Love Is The Greatest K.O.'d by Sin Honor Thy Leaders The Two Wisdoms Who is Your Jesus? Fighting the Boredom Bear The Wrong Side of History Why Are We Rich? Growing up in Christ The Next 25 Years The Non-Negotiables The First Christmas Gifts Grieving at Christmas Men in the 21st Century Holy Habits Canadian Thanksgiving The Prodigal Principle Gross vs. Godly What Would Google Do? Preacher Worries From an Early Age
The 5 Chairs
This lesson discusses five different stages of faith represented by chairs, illustrating how believers move through various levels of spiritual maturity. Each chair signifies a distinct relationship with God, from those who are seeking Him to those who are fully committed. This framework encourages reflection on one's spiritual journey and the steps needed for growth.
Hebrews 9:27-28
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.
Presidential Privilege
The text discusses the reactions and defenses surrounding allegations against a president, prompting reflection on biblical teachings about adultery, God's impartiality, and the responsibilities of leaders, emphasizing the need for godly leadership in the nation.
Jonesboro - When Good People Die Badly
The text delves into the profound topic of death and sin, emphasizing the importance of faith and resurrection, offering a perspective on coping with loss and finding hope in the promise of eternal life.
Freedom, Slavery and Heaven
Reflect on the profound message of being freed from sin and becoming slaves of righteousness, pondering the practical implications in your everyday life and the pursuit of what is right.
Candles of Love
The heartfelt expressions of love and commitment to marriage and faith within the Choctaw congregation create a strong sense of unity and community that is truly inspiring.
Wholesome Sexuality
What does the Bible say about Sex?
Where Are We and Where Do We Go From Here?
In the midst of tragedy (the 1995 Oklahoma City Bombing) and uncertainty, the call to honor the victims, get involved, and offer prayers emerges as a way to navigate the aftermath and move forward with hope and resilience.
What is Your Witness?
Mike emphasizes the role of the church as the conscience and moral compass of society, declaring the truth of Christ and providing a model of righteous living.
What Yoke are You Wearing?
Jesus invites us to submit, carry the burden of faith, and enter a beneficial relationship with Him through the symbolism of the yoke, offering rest and lightness to those who choose to follow Him.
Matthew 11:25-30
What to Expect
Expect the new preacher to work hard as an evangelist, reaching out to the lost, organizing the church, and ministering through God's word, while he expects obedience and involvement from you to foster spiritual and numerical growth and be a model of encouragement to others.
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.
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.
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.
Sheep Seeking Shepherd
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.
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.
Evangelism is Job #1
Christian Lite or Light?
In a thought-provoking reflection on consumerism and Christianity, Mike challenges individuals to consider the authenticity of their faith and urges them to shine as a light in their actions to honor God.
Matthew 5:14-16
8. Top Ten Things that Kill Church Growth
In this lesson we examine 10 things that hinder church growth.
Single Solutions
The cycle of worry, loneliness and depression can make the single life more difficult than it needs to be. In chapter 7 of I Corinthians, Paul talks to singles and provides them with some solutions to their particular problems.
I Corinthians 7:25-35
Moses' Final Instructions Media and Christianity Honor Thy Father
The Half-Full Church
The importance of maintaining a positive perspective and fostering a sense of unity and love within the church community is highlighted in this insightful reflection on the power of faith and growth within the congregation.
The Deacon of Blame
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.
Spiritual Emergencies
Sometimes in our lives, we face spiritual emergencies and I think we need to learn to prepare for these events as well, because everyone at one time or another will .. face a "spiritual" emergency of some kind.
II Samuel 12:7-25
1. The Use of Media in Ministry
Communicating the Message
Media is the vehicle for communication and we as Christians are really in the business of communication.
1. The Preaching of Jesus
Perhaps in examining Jesus' style and approach to this glorious work we can become more of what all of us seek to be, like Him.
Matthew 5:1-2
The Unholy Blessing of Same-Sex Marriage The Disciple and Service