Toe the Line

The Salt of the Earth

Among the four elements necessary for life (air, water, earth and fire) there is a fifth essential element known as salt.  Most people take this substance for granted not realizing that salt is critical for all life.  In addition, there is a spiritual parallel for this element.  This sermon profoundly explains the physical uses for salt and explains how each of these uses has a corresponding spiritual application.  Thus, we find the reason why Jesus told His followers that they are “the salt of the earth.”

Have Mercy

There are hundreds of Church of God fellowships around the world, most of which critique the other groups.  Many of them see the other churches as “less correct” than themselves. Christ admonished His followers to have love for one another (John 13:34-35), but is this command losing ground amongst those in His Church today?  What is it that makes us see things the way we do?  Why do we seem to judge others according to our personal perspective and how can we change this attribute to the Godly trait of Mercy?

The Way We Should Choose

Today, our lives are filled with many choices, and we strive to be satisfied and fulfilled through them.  But, does our freedom of choice truly give us what we desire?  No, because no matter how much entertainment we enjoy, food we eat, or possessions we acquire; we will not be satisfied for long.  This sermon explains why we will never be satisfied with what this world has to offer.  It also reveals how the choices we make reflect our commitment to God. Finally, we learn the only way we can choose that will bring us freedom and true satisfaction.

If Only I would have Known

It seems that all of us can look back and remember times when we made decisions that were later regretted. Most of us can recall saying the words "If only I would have known."  Sadly, when Christ returns, there will be some who will utter this statement.  What is unique in this future instance is-in all honesty we do know!  This sermon helps us to realize that we actually do know what God expects of us, and what is in store for those who are faithful.  It also inspires us to live the way we know we should?

Stand Corrected

One of the most detested things by virtually every man and woman is correction.  Nobody likes to be told that they are wrong.  However, this is something that we should desire the most.  As painful as it may be, reproof is good for us—something we should welcome.  It is the way to navigate the path to eternal life, and is the way to avoid truly harsh discipline.  This sermon explains how to recognize and accept correction that may come from various sources and it also tells us how to properly administer reproof to others.

Ears to Hear

God speaks to us in various ways.  One way in particular is during our weekly services.  There, we assemble before Him in a holy convocation for the purpose of learning from His Word.  We pray to Him asking His divine presence and inspiration.  We ask God to speak to us through the individual giving the message.  The question is—do we listen?   Do we hear His message to us?  This message will help you to get more of our services.

To Make a Difference between the Unclean and the Clean

In Leviticus chapter 11, God gave His people the criterion for determining unclean and clean foods.  These instructions were given as a way of keeping our bodies free from that which is unclean and potentially harmful, and only putting in us only that which is clean and helpful.  But, is there more to this physical concept?  The answer is yes! This sermon not explains the spiritual principles of the unclean and clean food laws.  In addition, it shows us how the values of the world are becoming more and more soiled, and also brings Christians to consider if we in God’s Church may be allowing unclean things into our bodies, our families and our lives.

Was the Law Done Away?

The vast number of those in the Protestant community believes that the law was done away.  They might believe in keeping the last six commandments, but the first four are certainly up for grabs. Those who take this approach base their belief on obscure passages of the apostle Paul alone.  How should the Christian view these verses of Paul?  What do these scriptures truly mean?  Listen to find out.

Why Christ Will Return

The anticipation of Christ’s second coming is highly anticipated by every true Christian.  We read, talk, listen, ponder and pray about it everyday of our lives.  But, do we know why Jesus is going to come back to this earth?  Even though we might understand WHAT will occur when He returns, do we realize WHY this must take place?  This sermon will explain 7 profound reasons why Christ will return.

How the Kingdom will Spread

Jesus Christ is coming to establish His Kingdom on this earth.  How will that occur?  Will the Kingdom miraculously appear throughout the world?   Will everyone want to be a part of it, or will it slowly spread country by country—many of which will resist at first?  The Bible gives us the shocking answer.

What do you want out of life? If you ask anyone this question, you will likely get the same answer. Most people are going to tell you that they want to be happy. There are billions of people in the world today and all of them want to be happy. Sadly, many of them are not—why? The answer is going to surprise you, and the way to true happiness is revealed in this eye opening message.

Jesus Christ brought Saul of Tarsus to a radical conversion. The future apostle was actually knocked down from his horse and blinded. Saul then asked Jesus, "Who are you Lord?" In the King James version, the Savior answers the man who would later be named Paul, "it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks." Just what did Jesus mean by this statement? And—is there a lesson for us?

When we were baptized, so many of us promised to give God everything. But for some reason, we hold back—why? Many times the answer to this question is simply that we fear what we don't know. Everyone fears the unknown, and we don't really know what our lives will be like if we give up everything for Christ. However, God should not be an unknown. We know that He is a God of love. We know that He only has our best interests at heart. Further, we can see from the sacrifice of Jesus Christ that God is willing to give everything for us. Why not trust Him completely and give everything to Him? Why don’t we have the faith to step into that unknown world of absolute trust in God?

In the Scriptures, God tells us that we are to become perfect. But—what exactly does He mean by this statement? Does God expect us to be without flaw in this life? Does He expect us to come to a point where there is nothing that can be added to make us better before our resurrection? Or, does God expect us to strive for perfection and ultimately become perfect like He is by the miraculous change that will take place when Christ returns? This message offers a comprehensive answer to these questions and many more.

So Others May Live

The Fear of God

As children, we are taught to love and respect our parents. With this respect comes a sense of fear in that we both honor them as well as obey the rules they lay down for us. As Christians we have a great spiritual Father that we are to also love, honor, and fear. What excactly does it mean to fear God? Does it mean we are to be afraid of Him? This message discusses the respect we are to have for our great Father in Heaven, and that our obedience shows our love and reverence for Him.

The world we live in has been plagued with the horrors of war from the beginning of its time. As civilization and technology has advanced, so has man’s ability to kill other men. Today the arms race has reached the point that Jesus prophesied. However, Jesus said He will not allow man to destroy himself this way. Soon, He will return to this earth. He will put an end to the ravages of war, and the chosen will help Him accomplish this wonderful goal. However, there is a vital lesson that we must learn before we can be a part of His disarmament program. Are we personally at war with those around us? Do we really think that we can be mean to others, and then help people learn the way of peace in the Kingdom? Listen to this important message to understand this vital lesson.

The high calling of God in Jesus Christ is an invitation to be a part of the most elite regiment of spirit beings that will ever be assembled. Do we understand what it means to receive this calling? Do we realize the magnitude and importance of our calling? Are we heeding to requirements of the invitation that we have received? Are we responding appropriately? Lastly, do you know why God called you? This inspiring sermon will answer these questions and help you to see your calling.

Given on the glorious Last Great Day, this message colorfully and scripturally describes and defines a time that is beyond our reach in this life. A time when that which is physical will be changed to spirit, and only then can we truly become perfect.

Giving Your Word

As Christians, we know that God speaks words that are sure. We also know that He loves us, and will never leave nor forsake us, because He is a God who does as He says. What about us? Do we keep our word to others? Are we a living example of what a Christian should be by our words and the actions thereof? This sermon relays the importance of keeping our word. In fact, you will see, keeping your word is so important that it is necessary in obtaining the Kingdom.

Arabs in Prophecy

Ever since 911, the Muslims and the Arab peoples have been a focus of American News. Who are these people? Why do they hate us so? And, what does the Bible say about them in prophecy? Do they play a role in end time events. If so, what is that role? You need to know.

Fight or Flight

There is a fundamental physiologic response that forms the foundation of an individual's survival. It is known as the "fight or flight" response and is our body's automatic reaction that prepares us to "fight" or "flee" from perceived harm. As Christians trying to overcome the self, Satan and this world, we see attacks coming from many places. But because we are human and the carnal mind is enmity with God, we many times see God’s correction to us as a threat. What is our response as God works with us to create a new being? Do we fight for right, or do we see Him as a threat and resist—caving in to the pressure of sin? Detailing the account of Jonah gives us great insight to this response, and explains how to deal with its sometimes mixed signals as Christians.

Is There a Way of Escape?

Jesus said to watch and pray that we might be accounted worthy to escape the terrible things that would occur at the end of the age. Is this a reference to a place of safety? There are those who seem to believe there is no such thing as a place of safety. What does the Bible say and how can we be accounted worthy?

Filled With the Spirit

Taming the Tongue

Inside Out and Outside In

In our quest to imitate Christ, and to seek His Kingdom, some focus on external aspects of conversion. They emphasize things such as will power, scripture memory, and fasting. Others sometimes put their focus primarily on the inner man, and strive to change from the inside out. Which is most important? Or, are we to approach conversion from both sides?

Protesting Protestantism

What is Protestantism, how did this movement originate, and do their beliefs have anything in common with those found in the Church of God? Martin Luther may have stood up against some of the doctrines found in the Roman Catholic church. However, did he reject all of them, or was his protest primarily against the authority of the Pope? Although various Protestant doctrines might seem to appear truthful, these supposed truths have been twisted into a lie!

Will God Accept My Offering?

Three times a year we are to appear before God and bring an offering. Does the Almighty automatically accept our gift? There are cases in the Bible in which we are told that God does not accept an offering given to Him. If not—why? We need to know and consider this issue before we give our next offering on God's holy day.

Trivializing God

We are living in the end of the age. It is the last era of God's Church, and in our age; we are warned that there would be scoffers. In fact, the entire spirit of our time tends to minimize God. They mock Him on television, and in sitcoms. In the media, religious people are portrayed as weird and strange—out of touch with reality. Has any of this rubbed off on us? Do we tend to trivialize God in our lives?

Recognizing Sin

What is Required of Us?

What does God require of us? It is not something complicated. It is nothing that is unattainable. He says that we are to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with Him. But—what exactly does that mean? How can we fulfill His requirements in our lives?

The Fruits of the Spirit

In the book of Galatians, God makes reference to the works of the flesh and compares those to the fruits of the Spirit. We are to have love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness , faith, and meekness. But—what are these traits? What do they look like as we apply them in real life? This message helps us understand.

The Defense Mechanism

Walk While We Have The Light

In being called by God, we have been given a unique window of opportunity. The Bible tells us that this window will not always be open and will soon close as a famine of the Word and darkness moves upon the land. This sermon explains this reality and gives examples of how to avoid the evil already present and spreading in this world—walking instead in the light of Christ while we still can.

The Importance of Thanksgiving

Americans celebrate the unique holiday of Thanksgiving. On this day, we usually eat and drink too much, watch sports, and satiate ourselves. But, isn't there more to being thankful? Why does God want us to be thankful? What does it change in us and how can be a more grateful people?

Whale Done

One of the most powerful tools for changing behavior is encouragement. The trainers at Sea World use a technique that enables them to train massive brute beasts to perform intricate tricks for an audience. But what about us? Can we use this same tool to help our loved ones be better people and better Christians? Listen to this message and learn about this incredible tool that everyone can benefit from.

Motivation

Everyone seems to need some kind of motivation in life and there are many ways we to be motivated. But, there is a lackadaisical attitude in our society mixed with various types of both good and bad motivation. How is this affecting the Church? This message explains these different aspects and shows us how to be rightly motivated—inspired to zealously seek the righteousness of Jesus Christ and God's Kingdom.

Wandering Through The Wilderness of Sin

The ancient Israelites wandered through the wilderness of Sin. Why was this wilderness called Sin? Is there any meaning in their wanderings for us? Do we wander through a modern day wilderness of sin? There is rich meaning in this message—especially for the days of unleavened bread.

The Most Dangerous Man

Today there is terrible death and destruction caused by tyrannical leaders across the face of the globe. It is a seemingly endless amount of evil that continues to pour out from governments and terrorist organizations. In this context —who do you think is the most dangerous man on earth and how can we overcome him? The answers may surprise you.

A Lesson from Saul

Are You Ready?

Not as the World Gives

Billions of dollars are given to various charitable organizations every year. Although these dollars are important, money is a way that many can give without making much effort to change or disrupt their own lives. There are then two ways to give—the way of the world and the way of Christ. As Christians we have something far more valuable to offer then simple dollars and cents. This message examines both of these ways and helps us to understand how we can give to God and others in a way that will have eternal effects.

Giant Killers

The Sin of Presumptuousness

Taken from Psalm 19, this messages explains what the great transgression is and what exactly are presumptuous sins.

Go Forward

The experience of ancient Israel was written for us who live at the end of the age. As Israel came out of Egypt what was the message God gave to them? What is the lesson for us today? Faced with enormous difficulties, trials, and even trapped at the Red Sea, God's message rings out from their day to ours, "Go Forward."

God Saves the Best for Last

Tyranny of Urgency

Using comments from the victim of a horrific suicide bombing in Tel Aviv as a launch pad, this message forces us to ask the question, "What is truly important in life?" To many, the urgent matters in life are things that can produce much stress and heartache. But the urgent is really a matter of perspective. Can we truly know how to handle these seemingly urgent situations in relation to God's plan coupled with the the time we currently live in? The answer is yes. This message will help you to avoid giving in to, and overcome, the tyranny of urgency.

Half Hearted

In years past the Church had a reputation for constantly being in the "gun lap." We were on fire to do the work, and to contribute in anyway to the cause of the Kingdom. We rooted out sin in our lives, and we made sacrifices of great magnitude. We loved God with our whole heart. Today, there is a malaise that has seemingly come upon the Church of God. We have lost so much of the zeal we once had. Too many of us have become half hearted. Why is this happening, and what should we do?

Matthew 18

The Puzzle

The many events in each of our lives help to form who we are and what we believe. From the good times to the bad, every experience produces a piece in the puzzle of our life. What do we do with these pieces? Do we use them to complete a picture of who we are, or leave them in disarray like an unfinished jigsaw puzzle inside a dusty old box? From a biblical perspective, this message helps us to realize how the pieces of our life fit together into a picture that we can not only envision, but actually begin to see—as our destiny as the children of God unfolds.

Harden not Your Heart

The Scriptures tell us that God hardened Pharaoh’s heart. Did God simply make the Pharaoh’s heart hard, or was it Pharaoh’s doing?  Did the great ruler of Egypt harden his own heart because of the circumstances that he experienced? We need to know how this process works so that we do not let our hearts become hardened like his.

Our Busy Driven Lives

We live in a world that is going so fast that it is hard to keep up. Life was not always like this. It has been sped up by God's enemy and for a profound purpose. It is to keep us distracted, ruled by the "tyranny of the urgent!" We need to put the hours of our days in perspective, and redeem the time and this message helps to explain how we can.

The Seat of the Scornful

There are lots of seats to sit in throughout life, but one seat in particular is filled by many people of today. In this message the undesirable position that is spoken of in Psalm 1:1 is fully examined in depth. It also shows us how, unbeknownst to us, we may also be sitting in the seat of the scornful.

Questions for Passover

Every year at Passover, we are told to examine ourselves. But what should we examine? This message presents seven vital questions that we should ask ourselves before we take the Passover. This year, before reconfirming our covenant with our Creator and Savior, listen to this message, and consider some of the questions it asks.

Between the Days of Unleavened Bread

We celebrate the high holy days that are like book ends on the days of unleavened bread. Those days are rich in symbolism, but what about the days in between the holy days? Do these days have any meaning for us? Is there symbolism in these days too? If so, what is the message for us during these days that are not holy convocations?

A Day of Love?

Given in the spirit of a secular season, this message is a prelude to the booklet The Truth about Valentine's Day. It briefly examines the many symbols, ceremonies and legends surrounding this supposed "day of love" and reveals the depravity and heresy that lay behind a mask of cards and heart-shaped candy. It culminates by explaining how this holiday of love has nothing to do with the love of God and is one that no Christian should keep.

Re-creation

Biblical evidence shows that God's plan for mankind consists of a 7000 year period of time, with the Kingdom of God taking place during the 7th thousand year period. Some may then wonder; is the earth we know today only 6,000 years old? What about the testimony of science? Carbon dating proclaims that the earth is billions of years old. Is there any way to reconcile science and the Bible? Does God's word indicate actually indicate that the earth is much older than mankind? Did angels inhabit the earth before man? Listen to find out.

Tear Down the High Places

It is hard to imagine any of God's people bowing down to Molech, Dagon or Baal, but is it possible that we can be guilty of worshipping false gods? In light of the first great commandment, this message opens our eyes to areas of our life where we may be putting other things ahead of our worship and respect to God and His ways.

The Inner Man