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2. The Indicative Mood

Characteristically Different

An in-depth study of Greek syntax nuances and abuses in grammar is highlighted through the works of scholars like Frank Stagg, Dr. J. Harold Greenlee, and Julius R. Mantey, emphasizing the importance of cautious interpretation based on mood distinctions in the indicative mood.

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.

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.

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

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.

Evangelism is Job #1

In this sermon, Mike emphasizes that evangelism is the primary mission of the church, citing Jesus' initial directive to spread the gospel as foundational to all other church ministries, which only become relevant after successful evangelistic efforts have begun.

Cults and Their Effects - Part 1

Understanding the difference between cults and true Christianity is crucial to protecting your mind and faith, as cults aim to control and manipulate individuals through deceit and coercion, while the church promotes freedom, study, questioning, and service to the community in the name of Jesus Christ.

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.

The Counterfeit Church

Understanding the dangers of cults and the importance of discernment in faith is crucial to protecting oneself from deceptive teachings and false leaders.

Proverbs 14:15

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.

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.

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.

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.

Wholesome Sexuality

What does the Bible say about Sex?

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.

Evangelizing the Postmodern Generation

We are all called to follow Christ in every generation. It is the responsibility of one generation to teach and evangelize the next generation to carry on the mission.

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.

Materialism

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

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.

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

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.

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 Disciple and Service

In this lesson, we learn the basic requirements for becoming and persevering as disciples of Christ.

Matthew 20:28

My Most Dangerous Sermon

This sermon looks at the reasons why the "money" sermon is dangerous for the preacher to preach but so necessary for the church to hear.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

23. Can a Man Be an Elder if He Has Been Married More Than Once?

Understanding the different interpretations of the passage in first Timothy regarding elders and multiple marriages can shed light on the importance of devotion and commitment in leadership roles within the church.

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

Can Women Baptize?

Prudential judgments on women baptizing in the Restoration Movement are guided by broader biblical principles and the absence of clear New Testament examples, emphasizing the act and meaning of baptism over the identity of the administrator.

28. Why Do Some Churches Use a Single Cup for Communion?

Explore the historical debate surrounding the use of a single cup during communion and how different Christian denominations approach this practice, reflecting on the essence of communion and its adaptation to modern times.

Hit Parade

The Ten Most Famous People of the Last 2,000 Years

A ranked reflection on history's most influential and widely recognized figures, highlighting how their fame shaped culture, thought, faith, and society across generations.

Beyond "An Eye for an Eye"

In a cycle of violence and retribution, a different path to peace is proposed by turning the other cheek when attacked, fostering respect and reconciliation instead of perpetuating conflict.

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.

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 Inspiration of the Bible

​Nobody just reads the Bible and says, "I think this book is inspired." It's not just a logical deduction. The Bible actually says this about itself in different places. Doesn't it seem natural that an inspired book would claim this about itself? The Old Testament takes this idea for granted since it continually describes dialogue between God and man.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

It's Our Turn

Discover the transformative role awaiting each of us as we take on the responsibility to live and share the message of faith for future generations.

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

Prayer and Fasting

The spiritual use, benefits, and practice of the combined spiritual disciplines of prayer and fasting are examined within a biblical context.

In God We Trust

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

God Bless You - Mike and Family

Mike reflects on the challenges and blessings of a faithful journey. He shares heartfelt experiences of enduring personal trials, maintaining strong family bonds, and growing in faith through it all. This lesson offers inspiration for anyone facing life's ups and downs, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their belief and trust in God's plan.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

37. Are Epaphroditus and Epaphras the Same Person?

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.

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.

Regular Worship

Let's look at the bigger picture that God has designed for New Testament worship.

The New You

In I Corinthians 6 Paul talks about a radical change that is possible and permanent and describes the three steps that lead to this new you.

I Corinthians 6:9-11

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.