How would you answer this question: “Who or What Is First in Your Life?” I’ve been around long enough to know that, in your answer to that question, you probably lied to yourself a little. You, like me, probably picked something that was important, but likely wasn’t the most important thing. It’s not something we do on purpose; we’re just…
Scripture References: Jeremiah 29:4-9, 11, 13, Jeremiah 44:11-16, Deuteronomy 30:19, Hebrews 13:8 Introduction: It’s Grad Sunday at First Baptist Church this week! During this season, many of us are likely writing out a few graduation cards. If I had to take a guess, one of the more common Bible verses we may see written on one of these cards is…
Scripture References: Ezekiel 37:3, 7-10, 23-28 Ephesians 2:4-6, Colossians 2:13, Genesis 1:2, 2:7, Revelation 21:1-4. Introduction: 3 And he said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” And I answered, “O Lord God, you know.” -Ezekiel 37:3 ESV This exchange between God and His prophet Ezekiel comes in the midst of a dismal scene which may be familiar…
When I first got started in ministry, I was at a church that was adding a contemporary service. Since it was new, we didn’t expect many people to attend. So, to help shrink the size of our sanctuary, the pastor bought nice ropes to section off some pews and encourage everyone to sit in a certain area of the sanctuary.…
Every week Pastor Chuck puts together a study guide for his sermon that includes discussion and reflection questions at the bottom. One of the questions for this week is: “Where in your life are you most tempted to compromise your convictions in order to avoid pressure, conflict, or discomfort?” This week’s sermon is on integrity, and Pastor Chuck will be…
When I was interviewing for the Youth Director position at First Baptist, I was asked a question that made me stumble. Having served in church ministry for a number of years, I felt I could pretty well predict what questions would come my way. But then they asked one I didn’t see coming: “Where do you see yourself in five…
This week’s sermon focuses on the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis 2:18–3:20—the moment when sin enters the world through their disobedience. Each week, as part of his sermon, Pastor Chuck shares a “big idea” for his sermon, this week’s is especially fitting for a week where we learn about sin and celebrate communion. The big idea: “When we…
Scripture References: Matthew 7:24, Jeremiah 36:1-3, 5-6, 8, 19-20, 22-24, 2 Kings 22:8-11, Joel 2:12-13a, 1 John 1:9 Introduction: What is our response to sin? What is our response to the Word of God? I’ve been reflecting on these questions a lot lately. Whether it is reflection during communion or my own personal prayer time, these questions get down to…
There is a common saying you might have heard: “Every scar tells a story.” For example, I have a scar on my thigh from when I was a kid. I tried to do a wheelie on my bike, but I was unsuccessful and landed on my handlebars. I have a scar on my knee from when I had knee surgery—a…
I was listening to a Tim Keller post-Easter message this week. In that sermon, he said, “The resurrection didn’t just change history—it’s supposed to change us.” I think change is something we all struggle with. We encounter these big events in our lives, but the change we desire to see doesn’t always come. Yet other times, we’ll encounter a situation…