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The Ritual of Dying

Prioritizing important conversations before death can bring closure and comfort to loved ones during a critical time of separation and reflection.

Veiled Religion

The ongoing controversy over accommodating Muslim women wearing various head coverings is more a debate over religious statements than demonstrating true spirituality.

Divine Justice

As the execution of Oklahoma City bomber, Timothy McVeigh, approaches there will surely be a rise in the debate over the issue of the death penalty. Unfortunately, both sides often talk, over each others' heads and the discussion rarely moves toward any kind of resolution.

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.

A Welcome Mat Church

A church leader emphasizes the importance of personal invitations in church growth, highlighting the impact of one-on-one interactions over grand initiatives or facilities in fostering a welcoming environment for visitors and members alike.

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.

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

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?

Why 2K?

The text discusses the Y2K bug scare and how people react to anxiety, highlighting the importance of faith and trust in God over technology, offering a perspective on handling fear and uncertainty.

For Men Only

Join us for a delicious breakfast and engaging conversation with fellow men at the planning breakfast this Saturday - a great opportunity to connect over food and fellowship!

A Good Death

Wang Zhiming, a Miao pastor in China, chose martyrdom over denying his faith, leaving behind a powerful message of steadfast belief in Christ.

Abstinence vs. Moderation

Understanding the importance of abstinence over moderation when it comes to alcohol consumption, considering its addictive nature and negative impact, is crucial for maintaining credibility as a Christian.

The 3 R's in Labor Day

The last thing we want to do on the Labor Day weekend is think about "work." But before we leave for the lake or start on the Labor Day project, let's spend a moment reviewing a few main ideas that the Bible has about our work that might be helpful when we get back to the job after the holiday is over.

Sooner Spirit

The thrilling victory scored over Nebraska is sure to keep Sooner fans happy for a long time to come. Aside from an excellent effort by the Norman squad, their play reminded me of the larger game of Christian living and what we need to remember when facing our greatest opponent, Satan and his forces:

Intensity vs. Accuracy

Reflect on the importance of accuracy in religion as highlighted in the prophetic words of Isaiah regarding the Moabite nation's futile intense religious rituals, emphasizing the need for biblical accuracy over mere intensity in worship and faith practices.

Every Excuse Works

Prioritizing spiritual growth over excuses like "I don't feel like it" or "I'm too tired" can lead to a fulfilling worship experience and a deeper connection with God.

Tomorrow's Sin

Focus on overcoming today's temptations and leave tomorrow's sin for another day, as tackling one day at a time is the key to victory over the daily struggle with sin.

The Spirit that is in me is Greater than the Spirit that is in AI!

The title says it all, doesn't it? All the fuss and handwringing over the Artificial Intelligence phenomena is quite anxiety producing for unbelievers.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Drawing Near to God

Part 2

As Christians we have many challenges before us. Prayer and fasting is the best way we can present these before God.

James 4:8-10

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.