Mustard seeds are small. But they don't stay that way!In Matthew 13, Jesus shared the parable of the 'mustard seed' in describing the kingdom's growth. Mustard seed start small. But in time, they grow upward and outward. Now, who did Jesus share this parable with? He shared it with a smattering of disciples on the shoreline. They were few. But fast forward to our day, and the kingdom now fills the entire planet (2.38 billion professing believers).Questions That We'll Answer:A) What can local churches learn from the 'mustard seed' parable?B) Is growth the church's objective? What about transformation?C) What should the church focus on in a time of cultural upheaval?Web: fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you have lost someone that you love, it is natural to grieve.With that said, GRIEF is NOT the same as DESPAIR. In 1 Thessalonians 4, the Apostle Paul makes this distinction. Specifically, he says that although it is OK to lament the loss of a loved one, we do not sorrow as those who have no hope. Reunions are coming. And because of that, our 'grief' is tinged with expectation.Questions That We'll Answer:A) Why were the Thessalonians so confused about life after death?B) Will Christians see (and recognize) our loved ones in eternity?C) How can we be sure of this? What is the basis of our hope?Web: www.fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How much time do you have left?In Romans 13, the Apostle Paul answered that question this way - not much. Specifically, Paul said that "the night is far spent, the day is at hand." Paul wanted his readers to understand the value of today. He wanted them to live as if their time was both short and precious.Questions That We'll Answer:A) What other passages refer to 'night and day' in a similar manner?B) What are the concepts of 'inner peace' and 'inner war?'C) What is holding us back? What's keeping us from living in the 'day?'www.fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How much of God's Word should we preach? To the Apostle Paul, the answer was ALL OF IT. And that's just what he told the Ephesian elders in Acts 10. He told them that he had not refrained from preaching and teaching the whole counsel of God, and he expected them to do the same. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why did Paul invite the Ephesian elders to meet with him? B) Why did Paul tell the elders they'd never see his face again? C) What other points did Paul emphasize during their last visit?   Website: www.fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Christians, we often remember the things that Jesus has done. With that said, have you ever wondered: what is He doing right now? Among other things, Jesus is interceding on behalf of His people. You have a divine advocate that is (even now) seeking your welfare! And that should be an encouragement during these difficult days. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why is John 17 referred to as the 'high priestly prayer?' B) Who did Jesus pray for in this text? And what did He say? C) In what way is Jesus interceding for you this very moment?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is the 'Magnificat?'The 'magnificat' is the name that we give to Mary's song in Luke 1, in which she declares that her soul 'magnifies the Lord.' In today's study, we will see that this is one of the most counter-cultural songs ever written.Questions That We'll Answer:1) What news did the Angel give Mary? What was her response?2) Why was it necessary that the Messiah be born of a 'virgin?'3) What makes the 'magnificat' so counter-cultural?Website: www.fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victory is at hand - your story ends well!The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not only the capstone of the entire Gospel, but it secures your great future. You see, if the grave didn't hold Him, then it won't hold you. And if death can be defeated, then so can all the other hardships that you're undergoing right now. Today may be difficult, but take heart - your story ends well!Questions That We'll Answer In Today's Study:1) What really happened on the Sunday after Christ's death?2) Who were the eyewitnesses to Christ's resurrection?3) What supernatural events rocked Jerusalem on that great day?Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Darkness. An earthquake. A shock in the temple. And on top of that, a cry - 'My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?' What really happened on the cross? What do we make of all the supernatural events that transpired? And what do we make of Christ's final words? In today's study, we will consider our Savior's final moments on Calvary. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why did the sky grow dark at 12PM? What did the darkness signify? B) Did the Father really turn His face away from the Son? C) What hope do we find even in the hardest chapter in Scripture?   www.fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Matthew 26, Jesus sat down. His betrayer joined Him. In today's study, Jesus sat down for what we call the 'Last Supper,' with His betrayer seated just a few feet away. Our Lord had come to celebrate the Passover with His disciples, knowing this would be their last opportunity to do so. But He also knew the heart (and pending actions) of a man named Judas Iscariot.  In today’s study, we’ll consider the high stakes of Matthew 26. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why did Judas betray Christ? What was his purpose and reward? B) What doctrines did Jesus emphasize during the 'Last Supper?' C) What was about to happen next? What did Jesus expect to occur?   www.fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus was walking into a trap. Several traps, actually. When Jesus entered the Temple in Matthew 21, the Pharisees, Sadducees and others planned to ask Him questions that might trap or make our Lord look bad. They wanted to destroy or hurt His credibility. In today's study, we'll see how Jesus responded. Questions That We'll Answer: A) What was the irony about the questions that Jesus was facing? B) What was the point of Christ's parable about the wedding feast? C) What happened to the improperly dressed 'wedding guest?' Web: www.fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Matthew 21, Jesus was angry.Now, how could this be? What could possibly make gentle, loving, patient Jesus so upset? What could cause Him to flip tables and to make a scene? In today's study, we'll consider both the circumstances and reasons for Christ's anger.Questions That We'll Answer:A) Who were the money-changers in the temple? What were they doing?B) How does this event relate to the time Jesus cursed a fig tree?C) What does it mean for God's temple to be a 'house of prayer?'Website: www.fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus, Moses, and Elijah met on the mountaintop. One's face radiated with divine light. The others did not.Moses and Elijah were no slouches - these were titans of Jewish history, the very embodiment of the law and the prophets. And yet, when standing next to Jesus, they paled. It was Christ alone that the Father referred to, saying "This is my Son, listen to Him" in Matthew 17.Questions That We'll Answer:A) What was the 'transfiguration,' and why did Jesus undergo it?B) Why did Moses and Elijah appear, and what did they talk about?C) What was Peter's mistake, and what forgiveness did he receive?Site: www.fpcgulfport.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This was a very wicked region. In the time of Christ, Caesarea Phillipi was the 'red light district.' It was filled with pagan people doing pagan things. And yet, this is where Jesus took His disciples in Matthew 16. Why? That will be the focus of today's study. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why did Jesus travel to the region known as Hell's gates? B) What did He teach His disciples when they got there? C) Why did Jesus say "on this rock I will build my church?" Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org 

It is the most famous sermon ever preached. In Matthew 5, Jesus started the 'Sermon On The Mount' with a series of blessings (or beatitudes). What were these blessings all about? And how were they received by hurting, downtrodden people who were used to the legalism of the Pharisees? Questions That We'll Answer: A) How do the blessings of Matthew 5 contrast to the woes of Matthew 23? B) Who was Christ's audience for this particular sermon? C) What does it mean to be 'salt' and 'light' in the world around us?   First Presbyterian Church of Gulfport MS Web: www.fpcgulfport.org 

Who were the 12 Apostles? Well, they weren't the sort of men you would expect. They weren't the sort of men that anyone would expect. Fishermen, a tax collector, a Judas - from an earthly perspective, this was a most unlikely bunch. And yet, Christ chose these men to be His friends and ambassadors. What can we learn from their service? Questions That We'll Answer: A) What is the difference between a 'disciple' and an 'apostle?' B) What warnings did Jesus give to His apostles about the world? C) What unique responsibilities were the apostles given?  Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org

Pharisees hated Jesus. This Roman Centurion did not. Throughout the New Testament, the Pharisees antagonized our Savior. They accused and berated Him at every turn. Conversely, there are seven Roman Centurions in the New Testament - and each is portrayed in a more positive light. How can this be? Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why did Jesus 'marvel' at the faith of the Centurion? B) What stood out about the Centurion's request? C) What warning did Jesus give the Jews in Matthew 8?   Website: http://www.fpcgulfport.org 

If baptism is for SINNERS, then why was JESUS baptized? In Matthew 3, Jesus asked John to baptize him. That blew John's mind. And so, John told Him that it was the other way around - that Christ needed to baptize him! John knew that Jesus had no sins that He needed to repent of, and no need to be 'washed clean.' So why did Jesus insist on being baptized? That will be today's focus. Questions That We'll Answer: A) What sort of baptism was John doing by the Jordan River? B) Were John's baptism the same as our modern, church age baptisms? B) Why did Jesus say His baptism would 'fulfill all righteousness?'  Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org 

The God who MADE YOU wants to be WITH YOU. Think on that. The pagan gods didn't work that way. These (false) deities kept the people at arm's length. But our God wants to be close. He walked with Adam in the garden. He dwelt in the tabernacle and temple. He came to earth in the form of a babe. Our God is "Emmanuel" - He is "God With Us." Join us for Part 2 of our study in the Book of Matthew. Questions That We'll Answer: A) What is the difference between being 'with' or 'for' someone? B) What did the Angel tell Joseph about Jesus? Why was it so important? C) What comfort do the Angel's words have to those of us who are hurting?  Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org 

Who was Matthew? What is the Book of Matthew all about? In Part 1 of our new study, we will introduce this Gospel and talk about the audience that it was originally written to - the Israelites. While Matthew contains truth and wisdom for all people, it was intended to explain the person and work of Jesus to Matthew's Jewish contemporaries. In addition to introducing the Book of Matthew, we'll also talk about the 'intertestamental age' that preceded its writing. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why was God 'silent' for over 400 years? B) What differentiates Matthew from the other Gospel accounts? C) Why are there two different genealogies (in Matthew and Luke)?  Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org 

Throughout the Old Testament, God made a series of incredible promises – promises that defied His people’s expectations. And, in His time, He fulfilled every last one of them.  In today’s study of 1 Kings 8, we’ll consider the God who always ‘keeps His promises’ – including those that He has made to you and I. Questions That We'll Answer: A) What are some of the most amazing promises God has ever made? B) What promises has He made to you  for your own future? C) Why did 1 Kings 8 represent such a high point in Israel's history?  Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org 

On many occasions, Moses went up a mountain to meet with God. In Deuteronomy 34, he would do so once again - but this time, he would not return. What can we learn from the death of Moses? That will be the focus of today's study. Questions That We'll Answer: A) How old was Moses when he died? What was his health like? B) Who buried Moses? And where is he buried to this day? C) What did Moses see from the mountaintop prior to his death?  Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org 

In 1 Peter 2, the Apostle talked about a 'war' waged against the soul of believers. When we think of 'war,' we tend to think of external enemies that are coming against us. But that's not the sort of war that Peter was talking about. Rather, Peter was talking about a war that is going on within our own body (even as Christians). He was talking about a war between our flesh and our spirit. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why did Peter (and other apostles) use military terms so frequently? B) In what way is the devil like a 'roaring lion,' seeking to devour us? C) How can we protect ourselves from that which we cannot see?  Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org 

God told the people to go outward - to be fruitful and to multiply across the globe. Instead, the people decided to go upward - to build a tower into the heavens. In today's study, we'll consider the construction of the "Tower of Babel" in Genesis 11, and see why God came down to deal with its builders. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why was God angered by the building of this particular tower? B) Why did God confuse the language of the builders? C) What relationship does Genesis 11 have with Acts 2 (Pentecost)? 

In Romans 10, Paul asks a series of important questions. Specifically, he asked this: "How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not  believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?" If you have come to a saving faith, it is because someone shared God's Word with you. Maybe it was a pastor. Maybe it was a parent. But someone told you about Jesus, and you responded in faith. And now, guess what? You've been sent to share that same gospel with others. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why did Paul's heart break for his Jewish contemporaries? B) What did Israel need? Is God done with His covenant people? C) Why is the Gospel called the "power of God unto salvation?"  Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org 

Who is your neighbor? That was the question that Jesus asked the proud, arrogant lawyer. The man said that he'd kept the law. The man said that he'd loved his neighbor as himself. But Jesus knew better. Jesus knew that was only true if he neutered the word of any meaning.  And so Jesus asked him, "who is your neighbor?" Join us as we consider the parable of the 'Good Samaritan' in Luke 10. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why did the lawyer try to test Jesus in Verse 25? B) What was a 'Samaritan,' and what was their reputation? C) What does Biblical 'mercy ministry' look like to those in need?  Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org 

Does the church need revival? Does it need reformation? Throughout history, there have been a number of 'revivals' when God's people have increased in size, health, and ministry. And in every single case, these revivals involved a renewed emphasis on God's Word. In today's study of 2 Kings 23, we'll see that one of the most famous revivals in history came about after the 'rediscovery' of the law during the reign of King Josiah. Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why did the ancient Israelites tumble into sin so frequently? B) What does a biblical 'revival' look like? How can we be sure? C) What would a reformation of your own practices involve? 

Life is short. Act accordingly. In today's study, we consider Paul's words to the Corinthians, in which he referred to our mortal bodies as "earthen vessels." In other words, Paul likened our human bodies to pottery - easily broken, and not built to last. Now, is that a depressing thought? Well, it would be, except that Paul said that these "earthen vessels" house an eternal treasure, which can never be lost or destroyed. Join us as we consider this treasure further, in today's study of 2 Corinthians 4. Questions That We'll Answer: 1) What is the difference between what's 'eternal' and 'temporal?' 2) What does it mean to be a good 'spiritual' investor? 3) What did Christ say about laying up treasures in Heaven?  Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org 

When Exodus began, God's people were laboring over a building project - Pharaoh's. But by the time Exodus ends, an entirely different building project is in view (the Tabernacle). In our final study of the Book of Exodus, we consider the Tabernacle. The Tabernacle was a game changer for the people of Israel. With that said, what was this tent designed for? What was its purpose? Other Questions That We'll Answer: A) Why was God so specific about the Tabernacle's construction? B) Why was Moses not permitted to enter into the Tabernacle (Ex. 40)? C) Ultimately, what did the Tabernacle point toward? Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org

Are you and I able to look upon God's face? Why or why not? What about when we're in Heaven - will we be able to look upon God then? In today's text, we'll consider Moses' request to see God's face. And we'll also consider God's response, and how He safely tucked Moses into the 'cleft in the rock.'Questions That We'll Answer:A) What did the 'cleft in the rock' typify? What was it all about?B) Why did God say He would not go with the Israelites in Exodus 33?C) Why was Moses so concerned by this? Why did they need God's presence?Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. HoltChurch Website: www.fpcgulfport.org

The 'golden calf' incident is a dark blot in Israelite history. While coming down the mountain, Moses heard the sound of warfare from below. But he soon found that it wasn't warfare - it was singing and adulation toward an idol. The people had broken God's law. Terribly. Egregiously. And to demonstrate what they'd done, Moses shattered the 10 Commandments before their eyes.Questions That We'll Answer:A) What were the people thinking? And why did Aaron help?B) Were the people trying to replace Jehovah altogether?C) What was the immediate punishment that they received?

Does God care how we worship Him? According to Exodus 28, the answer is YES. In the last fifteen chapters of Exodus, we read about the construction of the Tabernacle. In these chapters, God gave the people some meticulous, specific details for the Tabernacle's components and design. He also gave specific details for the clothing of the priests - including a phrase they were to wear on their foreheads, "HOLINESS TO THE LORD."Questions That We'll Answer:A) What was the significance of God meeting with His people in the tabernacle?B) In what way did the Tabernacle reflect or anticipate Heaven?C) How are you and I considered "priests" as NT believers?

What was the Ark Of The Covenant? In Exodus 25, God told the Israelites to construct an 'ark,' and to place the ark in the Tabernacle. But what was the purpose of the Ark? And what was the significance of the 'mercy seat' that was on its top? These questions will be the focus of today's study.Questions That We'll Answer:A) What do we know about the ark's construction and origins?B) What was the ark's history as it was moved from place to place?C) And finally, where is the ark today? Egypt? Ethiopia? Where?

The Israelites had seen 'animal sacrifices' before. On many occasions, they'd seen blood on the altar. However, they'd never been sprinkled by that blood (the way that Moses did in Exodus 24).Why did Moses do this? And what was the point of this "blood oath" or covenant that the people had entered into with God? That will be the focus of today's study.Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. HoltChurch Website: www.fpcgulfport.org

Did you know that Jesus Christ appears throughout the Book of Exodus?From the Red Sea to their arrival in the Promised Land, Jesus Christ makes multiple appearances in this part of the Old Testament. In Exodus 23, we see one of these - an occasion when He is referred to as the "Angel of the Lord."Questions That We'll Answer:A) What other times does Jesus show up in the Old Testament?B) How can we be sure that it is really Him on these occasions?C) What is the point of His presence in this chapter (and others)?

God's law can teach, it can restrain, and it can disciple. But it cannot save. That was the problem of the Israelites as they looked at the burning mountain. When they heard the ten commandments, they realized this - as significant as those commandments were, they only condemned, and did not redeem. The fire on the mountain was a reminder that the people still could not approach God, even with the law in hand. So what was their hope? We'll consider that in our continuing study of the Book of Exodus.

"There were thunderings and lightnings, and a thick cloud on the mountain; and the sound of the trumpet was very loud, so that all the people who were in the camp trembled. And Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain." - Exodus 19:16-17

Ordinarily, bread doesn't come from Heaven. Ordinarily, water doesn't come from rocks. But in Exodus 16, they did! God provided for His people using the most unexpected means. Click to hear Part 7 of our new series on the Book of Exodus.

Across the course of the first nine plagues, all of Egypt's gods had proven worthless - the God of Israel had brought plagues upon the very things those gods were supposed to protect. And yet, Pharaoh had learned nothing. His heart had only grown harder. However, the 10th plague would break his spirit and take his son. Following the events of the Passover night, God's people would be set free. And in the implementation of the Passover meal itself, a neon arrow would point forward to the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. Click to listen to today's sermon on the "passover" from Exodus 12.

In Week 4 of our new series, we review the 'ten plagues of Egypt.' Why did God send these plagues? Why did it take more than one (let alone ten) before Pharaoh let God's people go? And what was God's reason for 'hardening Pharaoh's heart?' Click to learn more.

In Exodus 5, God was not messing around. He was clear in His decree to Pharaoh - "let My people go." However, Pharaoh resisted. He ignored God's messenger (Moses) and he rejected God's demand. In fact, He began to oppress the people even worse than before. This was not going to end well for Pharaoh!

In Exodus 3, God met Moses in the form of a 'burning bush.' What are we to make of this theophany? And what did God tell Moses at this time? In this week's sermon, we consider the great "I AM" statement and the commission that God gave to Moses to rescue His people from bondage.

Join us for Week 1 of our new 10 Week series on Exodus. In this week's sermon, we learn about the birth of Moses, the death of the Israelite children, and the hope for future deliverance (from the clutches of evil Pharaoh).

If you turn on the lights in a dark room, everything becomes visible. That’s what light does – it reveals things. With that said, when Jesus Christ (the light of the world) came into this world, the world rejected Him. In today’s sermon from Matt. 4, we’ll consider some of the reasons why.

2023 is here. Last year is gone. Act accordingly.In Philippians 3, the Apostle Paul said that he was going to forget the past, and push forward to what lay ahead. Paul saw life as a 'race,' one that he was committed to running well. What about you? What is your objective for the new year? And how will you reach it? In this sermon, we will consider Paul's exhortation to the church in Philippi - that they grow stronger and more sanctified in the time to come."I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 3:14

What was the 'temple' that Ezekiel described in Chapters 40-48 of his book? Was this SOME FUTURE TEMPLE that will be built in Jerusalem? Or was it symbolic of something else entirely? Click to learn more.

What was the "VALLEY OF DRY BONES" in Ezekiel 37? For that matter, whose bones were they, and what do these brittle objects represent? In Week 9 of our 10 week series on Ezekiel, we will answer these questions and more.

Which is harder, creating NEW LIFE, or regenerating a DEAD HEART? The hearts of Ezekiel's contemporaries were stony. They were dead in their sins and trespasses. They were spiritually flat-lining. So what did they need? The same thing we all need - regeneration. Click to learn more.

Pride comes before the fall. It was true of the CITY OF TYRE, and it was true of THE DEVIL as well. In today's study of Ezekiel 26-28, we see the destruction of the island kingdom of Tyre. We also see a unique reference to the fall of the devil. Both were guilty of similar sins! Click to learn more.

History is filled with false prophets, false teachers, wicked Pharisees, and all manner of religious charlatans. Why would the modern church be any different? Spoiler alert: it's not. Click to learn about God's judgment on false teachers from Ezekiel 13.

In Ezekiel 10, God's glory LEFT THE BUILDING. Destruction followed. But why did this happen? The people had turned their back on God, and turned toward idols. They had defiled His house. And so, Ezekiel had a vision of God's glory leaving the temple. Would He ever return?

When the TRAIN is coming, get off the TRACKS. In Ezekiel's day, the Israelites were standing on the train tracks of God's wrath, and were about to get run over. But why? What had they done? Why was God so angry? Click for Week 4 of our new series.

What does it mean to be A WATCHMAN? Ezekiel was called to be a 'watchman' over God's people, and that involved two things: identifying spiritual danger, and warning the people. Are there any watchmen in our own day? Click to learn more.

Ezekiel was sent to TELL PEOPLE things that they DIDN'T WANT TO HEAR. In Week 2 of our study, we consider Ezekiel's call to be a prophet. Israel had a long history of rejecting (and even killing) its prophets. So how would this young man respond? What would he say? Click to find out.

In Ezekiel 1, the prophet had A VISION. In this vision, he saw a fiery whirlwind approach, and within the whirlwind was a CHARIOT OF FIRE - carried by angels, who flew amidst the chariot's fiery wheels. What was this vision all about? Click to learn more.

The Gospel is NOT toothless. The Gospel is NOT weak. In Scripture, we see that the Gospel is the "power of God" unto salvation. We should treat it that way - as a lion to be let out, not as something to hide, package or subjugate. Just preach it!

For a Christian, is church OPTIONAL? In other words, do you really NEED the church? Why or why not? Spoiler alert: you do need the church. According to Scripture, the church is not optional, but essential to the healthy believer. Click to learn why.

Your suffering is NOT forever. There are BETTER DAYS ahead. How do we know? Well consider God's servant, Job. Yes, he cried a lot of tears. Yes, he hurt. But in time all those tears and pains were wiped away. Join us for the final encouraging chapter in our short study of Job.

Job was HURTING and CONFUSED. He asked God a lot of questions - and that was OK. But what's NOT OK is questioning God's wisdom, as if God is doing the wrong thing. Well, in Job 28, God responded to Job. Click to learn more.

Friends should COMFORT us, right? Friends should ENCOURAGE us! But what happens when our friends accuse us or make us feel worse? In Job 3, that's just what Job's friends did. They made him feel worse. Join us for this sermon as we consider Job's response.

WHY did something terrible happen to you? WHY are you hurting? WHY is life going the way it is going, if a GOOD GOD is in charge? These are timeless questions - in fact, they were the very questions asked by Job centuries ago. But are there answers? Click to be encouraged.

Job was GOOD. Job was RIGHTEOUS. And yet, Job suffered HORRIBLY. What is the Book of Job all about? Why did God permit this godly man to go through so many trials? And what does this mean for us? Click to learn more in this intro to our new series.

HOW LONG, O LORD? That was the cry of the prophets. That was the cry of the apostles. That was the cry of the martyrs. How long? When we see injustice or suffering, it offends our sense of right and wrong. And so we wonder WHEN IT WILL END. Click to learn more.

God is ALWAYS THERE. There is NO PLACE YOU CAN GO where God is not present. That's part of the job description of being God - His jurisdiction has no bounds. Join us for Week 3 of a three week series on God's attributes of omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence.

God is ALL KNOWING. He knows EVERYTHING. God knows everything that is, and everything that could be. He does not learn new information successively - He knows it all simultaneously. Join us for Week 2 of a three week series on God's attributes.

God is ALL POWERFUL. That means NO ONE OUTRANKS HIM. No one can frustrate His purposes. Not me, not you, and not the kings or corporations of this age. Join us for Week 1 of a new three week series on God's attributes of omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence.

YOUTH is fleeting, but IMMATURITY can last forever. If you're still swimming in the shallows of the Christian faith, it is time to dive deeper. It is time to take ownership of what you believe and act accordingly. Click to learn more.

HOW WE WORSHIP MATTERS. God cares about worship. He's told us how to do it. He's given us instructions. And so it's silly (and dangerous) to approach Him on our terms with our methods.

Have you ever asked God for a "sign?" Sometimes life gets cloudy, and we want God to show us a sign. Perhaps we want Him to demonstrate His presence (or His plan) to us. How does God respond? Click to learn more from Matthew 12.

What does the Bible say about making plans for the future? In the book of James, we see that it's OK to make plans for tomorrow - but not to be presumptuous. Not to be arrogant. Instead, planning and praying should go hand in hand. Click to learn more.

"Why does your teacher eat with tax-collectors and sinners?" What Jesus was doing was scandalous. It disrupted the status quo. It threatened society. And yet, it was good! Click above to hear this encouraging sermon from Matthew 9.

Jesus was crucified between two thieves. And at first, both mocked Him. Then one stopped mocking. "Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom," this thief said. And Christ's response was, "truly, this day, you will be with Me in paradise." Click to learn more.

The man DID NOT believe. In his mind, there was NO WAY that Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah. That was until he met Jesus. And at that moment, Jesus convinced this skeptic that He was indeed the Messiah - the very Son of God.

If baptism is for SINNERS, then why was JESUS baptized? Even John the Baptist didn't understand this one. John told Jesus that he needed to be baptized by Him, not the other way around. So why did Jesus do it? In this sermon, we learn the answer.

Does the devil think that he can win? In Luke 4, Jesus is led out into the wilderness, where He was tempted for forty days by the devil. What did the devil think he was going to accomplish? And what was the Father's purpose in allowing His Son to undergo this? Click to hear this sermon from Luke 4.

Have you ever been angry with God? In Jonah 4, the prophet was angry at God. He couldn't believe what God had done. It didn't seem good or fair. And he insisted that his own anger was right and appropriate! Click to hear God's gracious response.

Eight words. One sermon. Over a hundred thousand people repented. There's no other sermon like this. There's no sermon ever preached that had as wide-spread a response among those that it was originally preached to. Click to learn more from our recent series on Jonah.

Alone. Scared. Anxious. Is that you? Have you felt that way? No one has ever felt as alone as Jonah - sitting by himself in the belly of the beast. But the prophet wasn't really alone, and this wasn't the end of the line. Click to listen and be encouraged.

You can RUN from God. But you can't HIDE from God. Has God every placed a call on your life that you've run away from? Has God ever called you - and instead of responding to His call, you ran? That's what Jonah did. Click to learn more.

At one point, Ruth and Naomi were down. They were BROKEN, HURTING, and DESPERATE. But in God's time, He picked them up - the last chapter of their story was far better than the first! Click to hear this encouraging word from Ruth 4.

Today may be terrible. But that doesn't mean that tomorrow will be. In Chapter 1 of Ruth, things couldn't have been worse for Ruth and Naomi. Death in the desert awaited. But God had a better plan. There was hope on the horizon. Click to learn more.

What makes you HAPPY? If you're only happy when your circumstances are great, then prepare to be unhappy a lot. But what if your happiness is vested in something else? Something transcendent? Click to learn more.

It is easy to become jaded toward the need of others. It is also wrong. From one end of Scripture to the other, God's love for the poor, broken and hurting is on display. As Christians, we should reflect that love. In this sermon we discuss how. Click to hear more.

The prophets spoke. The people didn't listen. For centuries, the people had ignored the prophets. But the prophets were consistently right. And Micah was definitely right about this - a KING was coming, to be born in BETHLEHEM.

The Jews stopped saying God's name in the 5th century BC. Why? There are a lot of reasons for this. Among them was that God's name is holy and not to be taken lightly. So how do we approach His name now? Click to learn more about the "name" of God.

Ten men stood on the edge of town. They were broken. They were desperate. And then the most amazing thing happened - their greatest desires were fulfilled. But what happened next? How did they respond? Click to learn more.

You're making progress. Good. But there is some issue in your life  that you haven't addressed - some issue that you have been unwilling to deal with. Some sin that you're letting hang on. In Judah, there were a number of good kings. But even the good kings did not take down the "high places" of idolatry. They kept them up. And God held that decision against them. They went so far in their reforms, but they did not go all the way. Click to learn more in this motivational sermon from 2 Kings.

Everyone is someone's disciple. Someone is teaching you. Someone is attempting to remake you in their image. The question is: who? As a Christian, you need to consider the sources that are instructing you and your children (from church to the media to schooling). Not everyone can be right about the big questions in life, and some sources are outright wrong and depraved. Click to listen to this relevant sermon from Colossians 2.

Don't do it. Don't water down the Gospel. Don't pander to sinners. Don't appease goats and starve sheep. Don't let people die on your watch. Tell people the truth! In Romans 1, the Apostle Paul said "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ." We shouldn't be either. Click to listen to this convicting sermon from Dr. Holt.

Those who forget their history are doomed to repeat it. If a church or an individual repeats silly, stupid or sinful decisions of the past, then they are like a dog that returns to its own vomit - and they pay the price. Click to listen to this timely sermon from Psalm 78.

Are you depressed? Are you beaten down? Do you wonder where God is in the middle of your hurts? Then here's some encouragement: God is near, and He cares. In Psalm 139, we see that although we travel through some dark valleys, we're never alone. God is always with us, and He has ordained good on our horizon. Click for more.

The human mind is capable of great things! It is better than any computer; impressive in its ways. However, it is also riddled by sin. It forgets. It is selective in what it believes. It desperately needs to be "renewed." Click to listen to this sermon from Romans 12.

Pandemics, hurricanes, earthquakes - these things SCREAM at us that the world is BROKEN. But why is that? And if it's broken, how did it happen, and when will it be fixed? Click for this encouraging sermon from Romans 8.

Stephen told people the truth. And they killed him for it. The story of Stephen (in Acts 7) is typical in Scripture - a faithful man tells people the truth, and they respond by killing him. But why? Why this ferocity? Why this anger? What did Stephen say that made them stone this gentle, loving man? Click to learn more.

What do you tend to think about? Do you think good thoughts, or bad ones? Do you focus on good things, or bad things? The focus of your thoughts will direct your future. That is the Apostle Paul's warning in today's text in Philippians 4.

Will you stand firm when you face opposition? Standing is easy when there are no forces acting against you. It is harder when you are being pushed or pulled contrary to your will. Click to listen to Week 8 in our study of Philippians.

This world is NOT your home. You may think it is - but in the larger scheme of things, it is absolutely not. It is a short stay. It is a temporary pit-stop on an eternal highway. Click to listen to this reminder that the Christian's "citizenship" is in Heaven.

Your future IS better than your past. There IS hope on the horizon. That's the message of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 3, when he talks about "pressing on" toward an encouraging future - no matter how bad your past has been. Click to listen to our latest study in the Book of Philippians.

"Work out your salvation with fear and trembling." What did Paul mean in this statement? What kind of "work" was he talking about, and why is it done "with fear?" Click to learn more in Week 4 of our study on the Book of Philippians.

Jesus can relate to what you're going through. Philippians 2 says that He took on our nature and likeness, and experienced our hurts and pains. We refer to this as the "humility" or "condescension" of Christ. However, Philippians not only says that Jesus was humbled, it also says that He was exalted. Click to learn more in Week 3 of our study.

What is your purpose in life? Do you even know? If you have a Creator, does He have a say in what you're supposed to be doing? The Apostle Paul certainly believed this. To him, "to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Click to learn more in Week 2 of our new series on Philippians.

Paul was in prison. His situation was terrible. Death awaited. And yet, it was here that Paul wrote the most joyous letter in all of the Bible. How can this be? Join us for the first week in our study on the Book of Philippians.

Jerusalem was going down. The walls would be destroyed. The temple would burn. And the reason this was coming was because the people "did not know the hour of their visitation." Click to learn why Jesus wept over the city of Jerusalem, and what implications this might have for the future, in this study of Luke 19.

Our God is a consuming fire - and left to our own devices, we would melt before His gaze. So how will we survive on the day to come? What will you do? You see, the world has got God all wrong. They've denigrated His holiness to accommodate their sinfulness. And this is a dangerous game. Click to learn why in this study of Hebrews 12.

Is your conscience bothering you? Do you feel guilty over something you've done - perhaps something that nobody else knows? Sometimes our guilt weights us down - even affecting our health. But remember, there is forgiveness. Absolutely. There is forgiveness for you and for whatever it is you've done. Click to be encouraged.

Is Jesus the ONLY way? Why or why not? There are a lot of religions - can Heaven be attained by all of them? Can well meaning people of any faith be saved, as long as they are sincere in their beliefs? And can these questions be answered in an intellectually honest, theologically consistent way? Click to learn more.

What does it mean to be "born again?" Is this a real thing? Does something really happen to us when we come to Christ, or is this just a way of referring to our decision to follow Him? Click to learn about the doctrine of regeneration in this sermon from John 3.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me." Psalm 23

The devil is real. And the whole world is under his sway. That was the Apostle John's exact warning in 1 John 5. With that said, what does the devil's "reality" mean for you? And presuming that he attacks believers and the church, how does he go about it? Click to listen to our latest study.

A man sows what he reaps. As Paul wrapped up his letter to the Galatians, this was his emphasis. The things that you do and the things that you say will produce some sort of harvest - the question is, what kind will it be? Are you sowing good seeds, or are you sowing the spiritual equivalent of "gummy bears" that won't last the test of time? Click to listen to this final sermon in our series on Galatians.

Do you have an appetite for destruction?  There is a battle that is going on in our flesh. Don't think otherwise. We do a lot of things that we know are stupid or bad - the question is why? Join us as we consider the difference between "good fruits" and "bad fruits" in our study of Galatians 5.

Abraham had two sons - Isaac and Ishmael. One was the son of promise, the other was the son of works. In Galatians 4, Paul tells the Judaizers that they are the spiritual offspring of Ishmael. Now, what did he mean by that? Click to learn more as we head into the final weeks of our study on Galatians.

Is God your father? Does He love you like a father loves a child, and actively pursue what is best for you? Or are you outside of His family? In the Bible, there is a doctrine called the "doctrine of adoption," and it is one of the most encouraging teachings in the book. Click to learn more in our study of Galatians 4.

What's the point of God's laws? And how did He come up with these laws anyway - especially the ones that we don't like or don't understand? In Galatians 3, the Apostle Paul talks about the purpose of God's laws and why they are a good and necessary thing. Click to learn more.

People are quick to believe lies. O foolish Galatians - who has bewitched you? This was the question that Paul had. He wanted to know who had misled them. And then he reminded them of the truth, using Abraham as an example. Click to listen to this study of Galatians 3.

Paul was angry with Peter - he rebuked him to his face. But do you remember why? Well, the reason is extraordinarily significant. Click to learn more about this crisis in the early church in this sermon from Galatians 2.

The Jews and Gentiles had a violent history. The Gentiles had long oppressed the Israelites. There was great hatred and animosity between them. And yet, in God's time, the Gentiles were to be engrafted into His covenant family. This was amazing grace! But it wouldn't come easy. Click to listen to Week 3 of our series in Galatians.

Don't like the message? Attack the messenger. When our predecessors didn't like the Biblical message, they went after the messenger. Prophets, apostles, even Christ himself - all died because of what they had to say. Join us for Week 2 of our study in Galatians.

What is the Book of Galatians all about? The Book of Galatians was an epistle written by the Apostle Paul that contains some of the strongest and most critical statements in all of Scripture. Click to learn why Galatians is so important (and so relevant) in our own day.

Are we in the "end times?" Are we in the "last days?" The Apostle Paul suggests that the end times will be marked by a great falling away within the visible church, and with the arrival of the "man of sin." What did Paul mean, and what should we be looking out for? Click to learn more.

In the center of the Garden of Eden, there were two trees. Now, we usually think of the tree that prompted man's fall - the tree of the knowledge of "good and evil." But there was another tree nearby, which Scripture calls the "Tree of Life." Click to listen and learn more.

When the Devil comes for you or your children, it won't be the serpent's fangs that you should fear - but his words. Click to listen to this timely sermon from Colossians 2.

There is a villain in the Christmas story - a villain named Herod. Who was this man Herod, and what did he do that was so bad? Also, what was the Christmas Star and who were the Wise Men? Click to listen to this timely sermon from Luke 2.

Original sin - is it true? Is man born good, bad, or neutral? In other words, does the Bible say that we come into this world innocent, wicked, or as a spiritual free agent? The Apostle Paul taught on this topic at length - click to learn what he said in Romans 5.

"Are you the Messiah, or should we expect another?" Given who John the Baptist was, why would he ask this question of Jesus? What was going on in his heart and mind, and how would Christ respond? Click to listen to this encouraging sermon from Matthew 11.

When the storm hit, the sailors were exactly where Jesus had told them to go. But how can that be if He loved them so much? Storms happen. And sometimes God puts you right in their midst. But He does not leave you alone! Click to listen to this encouraging study of Matthew 14.

Belief or disbelief - either choice comes with reasons. What are yours? If you believe in God (or if you don't) you may be expected to give a reason for those views. But not everyone can. In this sermon, we consider some of the reasons for faith in God and His book.

Have you had a bad week? A bad month? A bad year? If so, how do you respond when God's word says to "make a joyful noise?" How do you respond with praise, when you are unhappy or depressed? Click to hear the Bible's own response to this question.

Is cremation biblical? In 1960, only 4% of Americans were cremated. As of 2020, that number is 52%. Clearly, cremation is considered a viable option for those planning ahead. With that said, what does the Bible have to say on this topic? You may be surprised.

Wars begin with words. It is words that shape our opinions and outcomes - words, semantics, and definitions form our "worldview." But where do these words come from? And are their sources reliable? Click to learn more in this sermon on "The War Of The Worldviews."

Are these the last days? According to the author of Hebrews, yes. But in these last days, we are not left alone. In these last days, we do not have to guess about God's plan. And that's because in these last days, God has spoken through His Son.

Does it feel like you are drowning? For many of us, our present circumstances are so hard or unpleasant, that it feels like we're drowning. We can't seem to escape the situation that we're in! If that's you today, then click for this encouraging sermon from Jonah 2.

"Lord, I believe, help my unbelief," the man cried. Like this man, many of us are living in a tension between that which we believe about God, and that which we doubt. Some doubt God's person - but more often, we doubt God's plan. If that's you, then click to be encouraged in this sermon from Mark 9.

Are you in danger of "losing" your salvation? Are you one sin or one bad day away from being cast from God's presence?  If you've ever wondered these things, this sermon from John 6 may provide some answers. Click to listen.

Masks, viruses, politics - there are a lot of issues out there, capable of dividing churches. It may get worse in the months ahead. The debates in the world around us are tearing at the social fabric. Don't let it happen in your congregation. Click to hear more.

There is a storm on the horizon. There is a storm coming that will leave no man, no institution, and no nation untouched. It is a storm that all other storms point forward to. What will you do when it arrives? Click to learn more in this sermon from Matthew 7.

The Gospel, when faithfully preached, will be opposed by a world that hates it. But how are we to respond to the world's barbs and persecution? Click to hear this encouraging sermon from Acts 5.

This is an increasingly dark and despairing world. In the midst of this present darkness, the world needs light, and not just more shadow! It needs salt that transforms, not conforms. It needs the Church to fulfill its mandate - not to appease a culture that will always be at war with it. Click to hear more in this convicting sermon from Matthew 5.

In 2 Corinthians 12, the Apostle Paul makes two significant statements: the first, that he had been given a vision of Heaven, and the second, that he had received a "thorn in the flesh." What were these disparate things all about? What was God revealing to Paul? Click to learn more.

This wicked cave in this wicked region was known as Hell's gate - the path to the underworld. This was the "red light district" of Christ's time. And yet, it was here that Jesus deliberately traveled with His disciples, in order to teach them. What did He have to say in such a pagan place? Click to hear this fascinating sermon about the future of Hell's gates, and what will ultimately prevail against them.

What are the last words of the Old Testament? Click to find out in this study of Malachi 4, and to see how the last words of the OT anticipate encouraging events and circumstances that were just around the corner.

Are you depressed? Are you downhearted? Then know this - you are special in God's eyes. You are of immeasurable value and worth to your Maker. And He wants you to know that. In Malachi 3, God says this about His people: "They shall be Mine, on the day that I make them My jewels." That means that in all the gravel of creation, you sparkle as a priceless gem. Click to listen to this encouraging sermon from the Book of Malachi.

What is tithing? Is it applicable in the New Testament economy? And what is "stewardship" - is it the holding on to one's resources, or the outpouring thereof? If you've ever wanted a clear, Biblical review of these financial principles, please click to listen.

God is good, yet evil exists. How do we reconcile the two? And where is "the God of justice" when so much injustice occurs in the world around us? Click to hear this timely study of Malachi 3.

Is your marriage hurting or broken? Have you gone through, or are you considering, divorce? Click to hear what the Bible has to say about God's view of marriage and divorce in the Old Testament book of Malachi.

You don't love us. That was the cry of the people against their God. And yet God, did love them - and there was a lot of proof of that love, if they were to just look around. God loved Israel with a unique, abiding, special love - a love that was not granted to His enemies. Click to hear more.

What is "mercy ministry?" When someone calls your church in need of help, what happens next? In some cases, it is a referral to some other place or to a civic agency. But that is insufficient. Our love for God and for our neighbors requires something more. Click to listen to this sermon from Deuteronomy 15.

Life is hard. Pain is real. And yet, God is there. No matter how hard life may get, God will not abandon you over to it. He walks side by side with His children, hand in hand. Click to hear more in this encouraging sermon from Matthew 4.

There is a theological pandemic in our world - infecting entire nations, institutions, and even seminaries. Click to hear about this disease, and how we should respond, in this sermon from 1 John 5.

One was the Messiah, the other a murderer. One was innocent, the other was guilty. And three days before Easter, it was the innocent who was slaughtered. Click to hear the story of Jesus Christ and Barabbas from Luke 23.

Life is hard right now. Jobs are lost, people are sick, and the horizon looks bleak. But just as iron is wrought over fire, so are God's people refined through tough circumstances. Click to hear this encouraging message from Dr. Toby Holt.

The Coronavirus, and all the challenges that it has brought with it, is part of God's plan and decree. But how will we respond to it? In particular, what is the role of the church and pastoral leaders, in shepherding God's flock at this challenging time? Click to hear more.

We all think that we're right - we all think that we see life clearly. But what if we're deluded? What if our worldview is wrong? What if we're packing our minds with lies? How will that turn out for us? Click to hear this convicting sermon from the Book of Jude.

Are you ready to give up? Are you depressed, hurting, or anxious about the future? Then know this - your story ends well. Click to hear this encouraging sermon from Psalm 113.

Bad advice will mess you up. Bad teachers will lead you astray. And you don't have a lot of room for error - life is hard enough without having people tell you things that aren't true. Click to hear Jude's warnings about false teachers in Jude 1:4-11.

Truth is not a moving target. Our culture redefines what is "true" with every generation - sometimes faster. And this is wrong. However, truth doesn't emanate from our culture - but from God. Click to learn how to contend for it.

You want it all - but that's not realistic! Time and resources are finite. So what should you prioritize? Where should your focus be? Click to hear this convicting sermon from Matthew 6:19-21.

Have you been hurt by someone else? Sometimes our greatest hurts have come from family or friends. These sorts of broken relationships can cause us unbearable pain. Has that been your experience? If so, then click to hear an encouraging word.

At Christmas, even a secular world finds "baby Jesus" appealing. Jesus as a child, or a teacher, or even as a healer, does not cause the world grief. But Jesus as King? Or Jesus the divine? Well, that's a different story. Click to hear this sermon from Isaiah 6:1-8.

What does it mean to "fence" the Lord's Table? In 1 Corinthians 11, the Apostle Paul warns believers not to eat and drink of the Lord's table "in an unworthy manner," lest they were to "eat and drink judgment" upon themselves. Click to learn what this means.

In one breath, Isaiah compares man to grass that bends in the breeze, and withers in the sun. He says that man is weak - even youths grow tired and weary. But in the next breath, he says that believers will "soar on wings like eagles." What has changed? Click to hear this encouraging sermon from Isaiah 40.

What is the "church?" What is its job? Is the church essential to the life of the Christian, or is it optional depending on our needs? Click to hear this sermon on the "work of the church," in a study of Paul's words from Ephesians 4.

Romans 1:16-17 has been called the "theme" of the entire Book of Romans. Beyond this, it was this very same text that converted the heart of Martin Luther and affirmed to him the doctrines of grace. Click to hear more.

Do you believe the Bible? Do you believe that the book really is God's Word? In Daniel 8, the man we know as Daniel recorded prophesies of events that would happen in the centuries to come. And in this study, we see that those prophesies line up perfectly with the actual historical record. Click to hear the details.

Do you have integrity? Do you have principles? Sometimes in life, our principles are put to the test by difficult circumstances. Sometimes we're faced with terrifying choices. How do we respond in those moments? Click to hear how three faithful men responded, in this sermon from Daniel 3.

Have you ever had a "bad dream?" King Nebuchadnezzar once had a dream that was so terrifying, that he demanded that all of his wise men interpret it for him on pain of death. Click to learn about the nature of this dream, in a sermon from Daniel 2.

This world, these pains - none of these are permanent. You were made for someplace better. While living in Babylon, Daniel remembered this. He remembered God's promises. He knew that he was a stranger in a strange land, and he lived accordingly. Click to hear this encouraging sermon from Daniel 1.