Tagged

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.

Repentance is a Revolution

Bible Basics

Mike explains how true repentance goes beyond feeling sorrow for sins—it's about a complete transformation of heart and lifestyle. He emphasizes that repentance is a bold, revolutionary act that turns one's life toward God, creating lasting change. This lesson challenges believers to rethink their understanding of repentance and embrace it as a powerful force for spiritual growth.

Acts 2:38

The Disciple and Service

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

Matthew 20:28

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.

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.

The Promise Land

A lesson that parallels an immigrant's experience with the experience of Christians who come into the kingdom and seek the promise of heaven.

Wholesome Sexuality

What does the Bible say about Sex?

God Has Planned Something Better for Us

This sermon explores how God's plan, revealed in the Bible, is superior to anything humans can imagine. It highlights the faith of ancient believers, who looked forward to a promise they would not receive in their lifetime. Mike encourages readers to trust in God's plan, which finds its fulfillment in Jesus, offering something far better than temporary solutions or material gains.

Hebrews 11

Feelin' Fine in 99

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

Why Jesus Had to Resurrect

In the Church of Christ we have no "special" services for religious holidays like Easter but the fact that Easter Sunday is celebrated by many seems to motivate people to make an extra effort to be at church service at this time.

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

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

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.

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.

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

Lords of the Ring

Mike gives three tried and true principles that will help you to learn one of life's most important lessons - finishing what you start.

Honor Thy Father

Reflect on the true meaning of honoring fathers—not only through gifts and celebration but by embodying respect, obedience, and living a life that brings them honor, just as the Bible encourages.

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

Celebrating the "Giving" in Thanksgiving

Mike explains why giving is the essential ingredient in thanksgiving.

The Good Steward

Stephen Black, a former homosexual, courageously stood up against proposed laws discriminating against homosexuals, sharing his faith in Jesus Christ and the power of change, inspiring others to stand firm in their beliefs.

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.

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

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

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 Death of a Pope

As you all know Jean Paul II has died at the age of 84. He is the spiritual leader and head of the Roman Catholic Church. It is said that there will be over 1 million people that will visit his body in Rome. The world and especially Catholics see this as an important and historic event, but how are we, as New Testament Christians, to react to the death of this Pope?

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 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

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.

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

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.

Why Me, Why Now?

One thing you learn a lot about as a minister is suffering and death. You're among the first to be called when there is illness and the last person to see the dead as they are buried at their funerals.

Materialism

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

Adultery in the 90's

Mike argues that society increasingly tolerates adultery and moral relativism, moving away from objective biblical values and risking societal decline as a result.

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.

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.

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.

Payback

This sermon delves into the challenging realities of Christianity, emphasizing the importance of following the narrow path and dealing with enemies in a Christ-like manner, inviting readers to reflect on their own journey and faith.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Mary - The Single Parent

A look at Mary, the mother of Jesus, as a woman, wife, and ultimately, a widow.

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.

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 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

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.

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.

Before You Leave for Heaven

This sermon emphasizes the importance of planning for one's final days and inheritance to ensure family unity, avoid conflict, and leave a lasting, positive legacy.

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.

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

In Defense of the Sedentary Life

Embrace the liberation from guilt and the joy of living authentically as you navigate the profound reflections on exercise and mortality in this insightful narrative.

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.

The Consequences of our Choices

What we choose in life often indicates where we are at in our development and what we really want.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Celebrating Jesus

If we expand our understanding of who Jesus is, according to the Bible, we will appreciate Him more.

John 20:26-29

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.