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Christian is a Christian

Four Questions to Ask Before Baptizing a Child

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.

Christian Worship in 150 AD

Justin Martyr was a Samarian Christian who lived in the second century. He was a Platonist philosopher who was converted to Christianity and became a strong defender of the faith. In one of his works, "Apology of the Christian Religion", written in around 150AD, he describes a typical Christian worship service of that day.

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.

A Christian Father's Vision

Witness the profound impact of a Christian father's vision as he quietly observes and guides his family towards eternal blessings and values.

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.

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

In Case of War

If we understand the times and circumstances correctly, the time for war has come upon us and as Christians we need to be prepared for this fact.

Every Tribe, Every Tongue

Keynote speech for the 2007 World Mission Workshop at Oklahoma Christian University. The main message is that it is the responsibility of each generation to evangelize the world and today it is possible through modern communication technology (i.e. Internet) to preach the gospel to every nation each day, all day long, until Jesus returns.

Revelation 5:9; 7:9

Christian Style Christmas

At one time or another I've tried and taught most of the ideas that Christians think about Christmas and its celebration; denouncing it, ignoring it or simply accepting its inevitability.

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.

Which War Are You Fighting?

There is a lot of talk concerning war these days. The war on America, war on drugs, and the war against youth violence to name a few.

Poster Child

Yet another teen-age funeral to keep the pundits hard at work. Santana's tragedy provides more grist for America's cottage industry of blame and political posturing.

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.

Cults and Their Effects - Part 2

Understand the history and practices of the Boston Movement, a group that has been described as a cult, and learn how to protect your church by focusing on evangelism, condemning harmful practices, and fostering open communication within the congregation.

Evangelizing Homosexuals

We need to evangelize this growing number of people but are usually hard-pressed to know where to begin. This lesson provides some information towards this end.

The Unholy Blessing of Same-Sex Marriage

A review of the progress of the same-sex marriage crusade along with what this means for Christians going forward.

The Power of the Men's Breakfast

Men's breakfasts provide a transformative space for Christian men to share experiences, confess struggles, and form bonds of accountability, shaping them into better leaders and servants of Christ through honest conversation and shared prayer.

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.

Materialism

Mike reviews two different types of materialism and how we are to deal with it.

Celebration Sunday

Reflecting on the celebration of victories in Christ Jesus and the blessings of living in a prosperous time in American history, the speaker emphasizes the importance of personal victory over death through faith and baptism.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

In God We Trust

If we're going to trust anything, then we need to trust in God.

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.

Media and Christianity

In our modern era, the rapid, constant influx of information from numerous sources requires us to develop practical ways to filter and manage what we consume daily.

Let's Get Ready to Rumble

Standing firm against the schemes of the devil is crucial in the battle for faith and unity, as highlighted in this powerful excerpt urging individuals to prepare for spiritual warfare and seek strength in God's protection.

Ephesians 6:10-20

Grace - The Favor of God

This sermon explores the concept of grace as the unmerited favor from God, emphasizing how it is given freely to believers despite their imperfections. The message highlights that grace is not something that can be earned but is a fundamental aspect of God's love and mercy towards humanity, with profound implications for Christian faith and daily living.

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.

Moses' Final Instructions

Moses' final instructions to the Israelites in the book of Deuteronomy emphasize obedience to God's word as the key to maintaining God's blessings, urging them not to compromise His commandments while preparing to enter the Promised Land.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.