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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.

The Silver Servers

The importance of older saints in the church and their responsibility to teach and guide the younger generation is highlighted in a powerful lesson based on Titus chapter 2.

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.

This Hurts me More Than It...

Church Discipline

Church discipline is a crucial aspect of maintaining doctrinal integrity and moral standards within the congregation, requiring patience, gentleness, and firmness when addressing issues such as false teachings, sin, and disruptive behavior.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

8. Top Ten Things that Kill Church Growth

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

5. 3 Basic Steps of Teaching

Teaching involves a basic three-step process: preparation, delivery, and evaluation.

Why Some Won't Make It

The text discusses the Christian belief in heaven and hell, emphasizing the importance of faith and the consequences of disbelief, urging readers to consider their own beliefs and choices.

If Your Brother Sins Against You

Learn how to effectively resolve conflicts and reconcile with others by following Jesus' teachings on forgiveness and reconciliation.

Matthew 18:15-35

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.

Cornbread Kindness

A heartwarming story about the impact of kindness and its ability to bring joy and build relationships, reminding us of the importance of showing compassion towards others in our daily lives.

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.

3. Designing Greatness into our Teaching Programs

God requires two things from us as teachers: our best effort and faithfulness. He does not demand perfection but at the same time, he does not accept mediocrity.

4. Improving the Effectiveness of our Adult Bible Class Teaching

A teacher of God's word, no matter the level or scope is one of the most important and influential roles in congregations. It is so important that it was among the final words of our Lord as he was preparing to ascend back into heaven.

Ten Reasons Not to Go to Montreal

Mike shares his journey of faith and gratitude towards those who supported his mission to preach the gospel in Montreal, highlighting the importance of stepping out in faith despite challenges and doubts.

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.

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.

Wholesome Sexuality

What does the Bible say about Sex?

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

The Dream Church

The ideal church, as described in the New Testament, is characterized by a single leader, Jesus Christ, a unified body, a commitment to holiness, a mission to preach the gospel, and a systematic approach to fulfilling this mission, inviting individuals to reflect on their role in becoming part of this dream church.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Chosen Wives

In selecting deacons, Paul emphasizes that their wives should possess qualities that support their husband's role, as their character can significantly impact his ability to serve effectively in the church, aligning with the biblical ideal of mutual partnership outlined in Genesis.

Drawing Near to God

Part 1

If you are making an effort to come closer to God, if you are investing your energies into becoming a holier person, you will not have the interest or energy to fight with your brothers or sister in the church.

James 4:8-10

5. The Work of this Evangelist

Paul the Apostle is near the end of his life in a Roman prison and gives instructions to Timothy, a young preacher he has trained about his work as a minister.

II Timothy 4:1-5

Not Ashamed

This lesson is based on Romans 1:16 and promotes the notion that the church needs to rediscover the manner and core message of the gospel in order to have a true impact on today's world.

Romans 1:16

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.

Foundations of our Faith

The Church of Christ distinguishes itself by its commitment to following the Bible as the sole authority, emphasizing restorationism and biblical accuracy in its approach to Christianity.

To Proclaim and Serve

A meaningful sermon emphasizing the importance of projecting a positive church image to the community and working towards being a caring and welcoming congregation.

3. How to Grow A Preacher

One of the greatest struggles that some men have is to decide if they're going to go into ministry. This lesson provides direction for those who desire this calling.

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.

16. Can Women Lead Adult Bible Classes?

Engage with the discussion on women's roles in teaching Bible classes, exploring how historical teachings can be adapted to modern contexts while maintaining respect for traditional beliefs and leadership structures.

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.

The Growth Bug

Mike emphasizes the importance of love as the primary objective of the church, highlighting that growth should be a byproduct of love rather than the main goal, inviting listeners to reflect on incorporating God's love into their lives and making love their primary focus as Christians.

Soul Saving Speech

Learn from the insightful words of Paul in I Thessalonians 2 on the importance of speaking confidently, honestly, lovingly, patiently, and authoritatively when sharing the gospel to win souls for Christ.

I Thessalonians 2:1-12

Essentials of Salvation

Part 1

People who are concerned with their souls don't want to risk losing salvation because of ignorance or neglect. They want to know what the essentials are.

Acts 4:12

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

Religious Education

How many people here went to Catholic school as children? I ask this because I want to see how many people here today can relate to my own experience growing up in Montreal and going to Catholic school. One of the features of my early education was the presence of religious training.

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 Matrix Conspiracy

There is new technology, new gadgets, new ideas about how things work. But as far as the human condition is concerned; as far as what mankind's essential responsibility is; as far as what is truth and the reality of life, death and what comes after --- there really is nothing new here on earth --- under the sun.

9. The Work of a Preacher

What does it take to be a preacher? Here are some things every preacher should do.