Christ the Redeemer Church

Title: The Heart of Christ Speaker: Creston Thomas Series: Matthew Date: June 14, 2026 Bible: Matthew 9:18-26 The sermon centers on the profound truth that Jesus is merciful, approachable, humble, and restorative, drawing all who are broken, weary, or burdened to Him without condition. Through the stories of Jairus, the woman with the issue of blood, and the resurrected girl, it reveals Jesus not as a distant or judgmental figure, but as one who meets people in their deepest need—whether social status, physical suffering, or spiritual despair—with compassion and power. The message emphasizes that true faith is not found in self-effort or religious performance, but in humble surrender, trusting that Jesus' mercy is sufficient and His timing is perfect. It calls believers to reflect His character by being merciful, patient, and humble, recognizing that God's grace transforms lives and restores what is broken, even after years of struggle. Ultimately, the sermon affirms that no situation is too hopeless, no heart too broken, and no time too long for God's redemptive work.

The sermon centers on the spiritual blindness of the natural man, illustrated through Jesus' encounter with John the Baptist's disciples who question why His followers do not fast like they and the Pharisees do. Jesus responds with parables—using the bridegroom, a new patch on an old garment, and new wine in old wineskins—to reveal that His presence inaugurates a new covenant of grace, making old religious rituals obsolete. These metaphors underscore that true understanding of Christ comes not through tradition or legalism, but through divine revelation, as only the spiritually awakened can perceive the deeper realities of God's kingdom. The message calls believers to humility, recognizing that their ability to see Christ is not due to personal merit but to God's sovereign grace, and urges them to live in gratitude and dependence on Christ, who alone offers lasting rest and salvation.

Jesus, the true Messiah, intentionally calls sinners like Matthew to follow Him, demonstrating His authority and compassion by transforming lives without requiring moral perfection first. He deliberately fellowship with tax collectors and sinners, not to condone sin, but to offer mercy and healing, revealing that His mission is to draw the broken to Himself, not the self-righteous. Despite opposition from religious leaders who judged His associations as inappropriate, Jesus affirms that He came not for the righteous, but for sinners in need of repentance, quoting Hosea to emphasize that God desires mercy over ritual sacrifice. The sermon underscores that true discipleship involves embracing others without prejudice, reflecting Christ's inclusive love that transcends social, moral, and cultural barriers. Ultimately, Jesus' example calls believers to mirror His heart by reaching out to the marginalized, recognizing that salvation is available to all who acknowledge their need, and that His authority extends to redeeming even the most broken lives.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:73, emphasizing that human existence originates in God's creative hand and is sustained by His intentional design, as affirmed in Genesis and reinforced through anthropomorphic language that reveals God's sovereignty and personal involvement. It highlights that God not only made humanity but also fashioned and completed each person with purpose, establishing them for a life of trust, obedience, and glory to Him. The psalmist's plea for understanding to learn God's commandments arises from this foundational truth: if God created and perfected us, His Word is the ultimate source of wisdom and direction. The sermon calls believers to daily humility, consistent Scripture engagement, and intentional community in the Word, urging a life motivated not by self or recognition, but by the desire to honor God in all things, knowing that true fulfillment comes only through knowing and obeying Him.

The sermon centers on the transformative power of authentic faith, illustrated through Jesus healing a paralyzed man whose friends demonstrated extraordinary perseverance by lowering him through a roof to reach Christ. It emphasizes that genuine faith is revealed not in words alone but in sacrificial action, as seen in the men's persistent effort despite obstacles, which moved Jesus to forgive the man's sins and restore his body. The message contrasts this living faith with the hollow religiosity of the scribes and Pharisees, who, though well-versed in Scripture, rejected Jesus' authority and labeled His divine acts as blasphemy, revealing their hardened hearts. In contrast, the crowd's awe and glorification of God highlight how authentic Christian living—marked by love, humility, and service—can inspire others to recognize God's power and draw them to faith. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to live a life that testifies to Christ's work, knowing that while some will oppose or mock such faith, others will be drawn to God through the consistency and integrity of their witness.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:72, affirming that God's Word—spoken directly from His mouth—is infinitely more valuable than any earthly treasure, such as gold or silver, because it reveals God's character, purpose, and will for humanity. It emphasizes that the Bible, as the inspired, breathed-out revelation of God, surpasses all other sources of truth, including general revelation in nature, by providing the definitive moral and spiritual guidance necessary for a life of worship and obedience. The preacher calls believers to prioritize God's Word through consistent personal Scripture reading, active participation in the gathered church, and intentional fellowship with other believers, all of which cultivate a deep, lasting affection for God's truth. Ultimately, the message is a pastoral exhortation to reorient one's desires and affections so that God's Word becomes more desirable than any earthly pleasure or possession, leading to a life of lasting satisfaction and spiritual fulfillment.

The sermon centers on the transformative power of Jesus Christ, illustrated through the healing of two demon-possessed men in the region of the Gerasenes, demonstrating that true salvation involves a radical inner renewal. It draws a profound connection between this biblical narrative and the spiritual condition of all humanity, emphasizing that all people—regardless of outward appearance—are lost in sin and in need of divine intervention, just as the men were enslaved to demons and lived in tombs. The passage reveals that even the demons, though they recognize Jesus as the Son of God and acknowledge His authority, refuse to submit to Him out of pride, highlighting the tragic reality of spiritual rebellion and the suppression of truth. Jesus alone possesses the power to cast out sin and demonic forces, restoring not only physical health but also a right mind and a new heart, enabling the formerly possessed man to sit at Jesus' feet in worship and devotion. The sermon concludes with a call to live as living testimonies of Christ's work, knowing that such a transformed life will inevitably draw both curiosity and resistance, but that the ultimate mission is to faithfully share the gospel, trusting God to draw people to Himself.

The sermon centers on the disciples' cry for help during a storm, highlighting the tension between their commendable act of seeking Jesus in crisis and their underlying lack of consistent faith. While their instinct to call upon Jesus in distress is right, the passage reveals a deeper issue: their faith is reactive rather than rooted in daily trust, revealing a pattern of approaching God only in desperation. The preacher emphasizes that true discipleship requires faithfulness not just in storms, but in everyday life, calling believers to cultivate a constant, unwavering reliance on Christ. Despite their feeble faith, Jesus responds with mercy, calming the storm and demonstrating His divine authority over nature, which points to His identity as the Son of God. The message culminates in a call to live with consistent faith—trusting God not only in trials, but in the ordinary moments—so that our lives reflect a deep, abiding relationship with Him, not merely transactional dependence.

The sermon presents a transformative perspective on affliction, reframing it not as divine punishment but as divine discipline intended to deepen faith and conform believers to the image of Christ. Drawing from Psalm 119:71, it argues that suffering, though universally perceived as negative, is ultimately good because it reveals hidden sin, cultivates dependence on God, and produces spiritual maturity. The preacher emphasizes that affliction exposes the heart's hidden flaws, much like a trial reveals a person's true character, and that God uses these trials to refine believers, strengthen perseverance, and build enduring hope. Rather than seeking escape from hardship, the believer is called to trust God's redemptive purpose, knowing that temporary suffering is producing an eternal weight of glory. Ultimately, the message calls Christians to live as living testimonies of Christ's peace and grace, especially in trials, so that their lives—marked by forgiveness and resilience—become the most powerful witness to the gospel.

The sermon centers on the cost of genuine discipleship, challenging superficial faith rooted in personal gain or intellectual pride. Drawing from Matthew 8:18–22, it contrasts two individuals who approach Jesus—one a knowledgeable scribe seeking more information, the other a disciple requesting permission to bury his father—both of whom are rebuked for failing to count the true cost of following Christ. The preacher emphasizes that true discipleship requires radical surrender, not head knowledge or convenient excuses, but a daily denial of self and willingness to bear one's cross. Jesus' response to both men reveals that authentic faith is not measured by religious status or emotional justification, but by total commitment to Him, even when it means forsaking comfort, family, or personal desires. The message calls believers to examine their hearts, rejecting the temptation to use legitimate struggles as excuses for spiritual stagnation, and instead embracing a humble, consistent walk with Christ that values eternal gain over temporary satisfaction.

The sermon contrasts two opposing heart conditions: one hardened and self-sufficient, described as 'fat as grease'—symbolizing spiritual dullness, pride, and resistance to correction—and another that is soft, teachable, and deeply joyful in God's Word. Drawing from Psalm 119:70, it emphasizes that the unregenerate heart is calloused, unyielding, and unpleasing to God, much like spoiled or unclean fat unfit for sacrifice, while the believer's heart is characterized by delight in God's love and law. This delight is not passive but active, rooted in Scripture, prayer, and humility, enabling spiritual sensitivity and openness to divine guidance. The message calls listeners to examine their hearts, repent of worldly distractions, and rekindle their joy in God through regular engagement with His Word and intimate communion in prayer, ultimately cultivating a life that is both teachable and transformed.

The sermon centers on Jesus' compassionate pursuit of the sick, exemplified by His healing of Peter's mother-in-law, illustrating that Jesus does not wait for the broken to come to Him but actively enters their suffering, transcending ritual uncleanness and societal barriers. Through this act, Jesus fulfills the prophetic promise of bearing our sicknesses and diseases, revealing His divine authority and mercy, while also inaugurating a new covenant community where healing leads not to isolation but to restoration and service. The restored life, as seen in the mother-in-law's immediate response to serve, reflects the natural outflow of grace—no longer defined by self-interest but by humble, Christ-centered devotion. The message calls believers to live as transformed people whose lives, marked by gratitude and service, become a living testimony to the gospel, embodying the suffering servant identity of Christ and inviting others to encounter God through both word and deed.

The sermon centers on the centurion's profound faith in Matthew 8:5–13, portraying a Gentile military officer whose persistent, humble, and faithful appeal to Jesus exemplifies true discipleship. Through the lens of the Sermon on the Mount, the preacher emphasizes that genuine faith is marked by spiritual poverty, meekness, and a complete dependence on God, contrasting it with the self-reliance and hypocrisy of religious leaders. The centurion's recognition of Jesus' authority—despite his own power—amazes Jesus, who commends him as a model of faith unmatched even among Israel, underscoring that true faith aligns with God's will and results in divine response. The message calls believers to examine their own hearts, rejecting worldly distractions and embracing a faith that trusts God completely, even in suffering, knowing that His purposes are ultimately redemptive and glorifying.

The sermon centers on the reality of false accusation and slander, drawing from Psalm 119:69 and biblical examples of faithful individuals like Joseph, David, Daniel, and Jesus, who endured lies from proud, arrogant people who sought to destroy their reputations. It warns against the natural human impulse to vindicate oneself through defense, social media, or confrontation, emphasizing that such efforts only lead to further shame and reveal a lack of trust in God's sovereignty. Instead, the message calls believers to respond with silence, faith, and reliance on God's promise that He alone will vindicate His people, as affirmed in Scripture such as Isaiah 54:17, Exodus 14:14, and Romans 12:19. The solution is not self-justification but a deep, wholehearted commitment to God's Word, which provides stability, identity, and peace amid injustice. Ultimately, the believer's hope is not in public approval or human justice, but in the eternal, divine justice of God, who will ultimately restore and honor His faithful ones.

Christian Fellowship Assembly: Baptism: Stephanie Payne and Lula Banks The sermon centers on the transformative power of personal faith and the importance of public confession and baptism as acts of obedience and identification with Christ. Drawing from Acts 8, it highlights the eunuch's journey from seeking truth in Scripture to encountering Philip, who guided him to understand Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy, culminating in his immediate baptism. The message emphasizes that salvation is not earned by works or delayed by tradition, but received through faith in Christ, followed by the outward act of baptism as a testimony of inward transformation. The tone is pastoral and celebratory, affirming the spiritual milestone of two individuals who have confessed their faith and now publicly commit to Christ, while underscoring the role of the Holy Spirit in illumination and the church in nurturing discipleship. The service is enriched by hymns that reflect themes of grace, surrender, and divine joy, reinforcing the unity of worship, testimony, and spiritual renewal.

The sermon centers on Matthew 8:1–4, using the encounter between Jesus and a leper to illustrate the heart of true discipleship rooted in the Sermon on the Mount's Beatitudes. It emphasizes that the leper's posture—humble, repentant, and desperate—mirrors the spiritual condition of a believer who recognizes their sin, mourns their brokenness, and earnestly seeks righteousness through faith in Christ. Jesus' act of touching the unclean leper, despite ritual impurity, demonstrates His divine authority and compassion, affirming that true cleansing comes not from religious ritual alone but from divine grace. The man's subsequent disobedience in spreading the news, though well-intentioned, disrupted Jesus' mission, highlighting the need for spiritual maturity and obedience even in moments of joy. Ultimately, the sermon teaches that believers are restored not merely to the old earthly temple but to a far greater, eternal spiritual reality—God's kingdom—where their identity is secure, their sins forgiven, and their inheritance eternal, regardless of present struggles.

The sermon centers on the profound truth that God alone is inherently good, and all goodness flows from His unchanging nature, as affirmed in Psalm 119:68. It argues that while humans may perform good deeds, no one is truly good by nature due to sin, making God the only source of true goodness, which is essential to His very being. The message emphasizes that God's actions—such as delivering His people from exile and sustaining creation—are consistently good, even in a fallen world, because evil arises not from God's creation but from the privation of good through rebellion. The sermon concludes by highlighting that God's Word is the primary means by which believers are reminded of His goodness, especially when life is confusing or painful, calling the audience to cultivate a life of Bible reading, prayer, and church community to continually be taught and reminded of God's enduring goodness.

The sermon centers on the transformative power of divine affliction, using Psalm 119:67 as a lens to explore how suffering, when rightly understood, draws believers into deeper obedience and intimacy with God's Word. It emphasizes that affliction is not punishment but loving discipline from a Father who shapes His children for holiness, pointing ultimately to Christ's own suffering on the cross as the supreme example of God's redemptive purpose. The preacher argues that every trial, while personal, is part of a larger narrative that culminates in Christ's atonement, where God's justice and mercy converge. Through the life of David and the prophetic witness of Isaiah, the message reveals that true spiritual maturity comes not from avoiding pain but from trusting God's Word amid hardship, knowing that He is working all things for the believer's sanctification and ultimate resurrection hope. The tone is both pastoral and profoundly theological, inviting listeners to see their struggles not as random or meaningless, but as divine appointments that deepen faith and point to the eternal victory of Christ.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:66, emphasizing the necessity of a teachable, faithful heart rooted in divine revelation. It calls believers to seek God's wisdom not through self-reliance or worldly judgment, but through humble submission to His commandments, illustrated through the metaphor of discipleship and the biblical concept of 'lamad'—to learn or be taught. The passage highlights that true judgment and knowledge are not derived from human experience or emotion, but from a heart transformed by the Spirit and aligned with God's Word, which reveals sin, points to Christ, and produces lasting change. The preacher underscores that genuine desire for spiritual growth must be accompanied by faith in God's promises and a commitment to obedience, distinguishing between mere intellectual assent and a life shaped by divine truth. Ultimately, the message calls the congregation to examine their hearts: Are they teachable, believing, and faithful—willing to be shaped by God's Word rather than merely discussing it?

The sermon centers on the transformative power of Jesus' authority as revealed in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing that true discipleship begins with a humble recognition of spiritual poverty and a heart broken over sin. The crowd's astonishment at Jesus' teaching—marked by a profound inner disturbance, not mere admiration—reveals the difference between superficial religious tradition and the life-changing weight of divine truth. Unlike the scribes who taught by human tradition and self-justification, Jesus spoke with divine authority, revealing the heart of God's law and exposing the hypocrisy of outward religiosity without inward transformation. The response to this message is not passive; it demands a radical reorientation of the heart, only possible through the work of the Holy Spirit, and warns against the danger of nominal faith—those who claim belief without the inward renewal that marks genuine discipleship. Ultimately, the sermon calls listeners to examine their own hearts, repent of self-righteousness, and respond in obedient faith to the one who speaks with final, divine authority.

Title: The Lord is Good to Us Speaker: Creston Thomas Series: Psalm 119 Date: March 22, 2026 Bible: Psalm 119:65 The sermon centers on the profound goodness of God as revealed in Psalm 119:65, emphasizing that God's faithfulness and kindness are not contingent on human merit but are rooted in His unchanging character and revealed through Scripture. It explores the identity of the Lord's servant—historically possibly David or other biblical figures, but ultimately pointing to all believers as God's servants—highlighting how God's goodness is most fully displayed in the cross, where He sacrificed His Son not because He needed humanity, but to reveal His love and redeem His people. The sermon argues that while God's goodness is evident in creation and daily blessings, the ultimate and definitive source of that goodness is the Bible, which not only reveals God's character but also calls believers to remember, cherish, and meditate on His faithfulness. Through a call to spiritual reflection and biblical remembrance, the message urges listeners to shift their focus from complaint to gratitude, recognizing that God's goodness is eternal, transformative, and most powerfully seen in the promise of a new creation where suffering and sin are no more.

The sermon concludes the Sermon on the Mount by emphasizing that true discipleship is defined not by outward religious activity, but by heartfelt hearing and obedient living in response to Jesus' teachings. Drawing from the parable of the wise and foolish builders, it contrasts those who hear Jesus' words and act on them—building their lives on the unshakable foundation of His truth—with those who hear but do not obey, whose lives rest on the unstable ground of self-reliance and hypocrisy. The message warns that religious zeal, even accompanied by miracles and moral performance, cannot substitute for genuine faith rooted in the Holy Spirit, which enables true understanding and transformation. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to recognize that salvation and spiritual stability come not from personal effort, but from abiding in Christ, whose obedience is imputed to them, and whose word alone provides enduring security amid life's storms.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:64, highlighting God's steadfast love—Hebrew *chesed*—as both revealed in creation and fully embodied in Scripture. It emphasizes that the earth's beauty and order testify to God's faithful, unchanging love, which surpasses human relationships and worldly sources of comfort. The preacher contrasts general revelation in nature with special revelation in the Bible, arguing that while creation points to God's glory, Scripture uniquely reveals His redemptive, sacrificial love—most profoundly in Christ's death for sinners. The call to action is clear: respond to God's steadfast love by immersing oneself in His Word, contemplating creation, and worshiping the faithful Creator, who remains constant even when humanity fails.

The sermon centers on the urgent call to genuine discipleship, warning against superficial faith that mimics true Christianity without transformation. Drawing from the Sermon on the Mount, it emphasizes that true discipleship begins with a new heart marked by humility, repentance, and recognition of one's sinfulness—rooted in the Beatitudes and the reality of divine judgment. It exposes the danger of false believers who claim Christ but live in lawlessness, performing religious acts without the Spirit's presence, and highlights that true identity is not based on profession but on being known by Jesus, who alone can declare, 'I never knew you.' The message calls for authentic faith marked by obedience, dependence on the Holy Spirit, accountability within a genuine community, and daily engagement with Scripture, urging listeners to examine their hearts and embrace a life of surrender, not performance.

This sermon, centered on Psalm 69, presents suffering not as a sign of divine abandonment but as a sacred mark of belonging to God, refining the believer's faith and drawing them closer to Christ. Through David's lament, the preacher illustrates how genuine faith endures trials not through self-reliance but through persistent prayer, repentance, and reliance on God's steadfast love, even amid public shame and personal exhaustion. The message emphasizes that suffering, when embraced in faith, becomes a divine instrument for spiritual growth, mirroring Christ's own sacrifice, where pain is transformed into purpose and redemption. Drawing from Scripture, especially 1 Peter and Philippians, the sermon affirms that suffering for Christ is both a privilege and a testimony, pointing others to the hope found in Jesus' atoning death and resurrection. Ultimately, the believer is called to view trials not as meaningless hardship but as part of a redemptive journey, where God is actively shaping character, deepening devotion, and preparing for eternal glory.

The sermon centers on Jesus' warning in Matthew 7:15–20 about false prophets, interpreting them not merely as external deceivers but as hypocritical religious leaders who outwardly profess faith while lacking genuine spiritual transformation. Drawing from the Sermon on the Mount, it emphasizes that true discipleship is marked by inward humility, repentance, and a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit—qualities absent in those who judge others while harboring unexamined sin. The preacher underscores that such false prophets are recognized not by their words alone, but by their fruit: a life devoid of love, mercy, and integrity, despite religious pretense. The message calls believers to self-examination, humility, and mutual accountability, affirming that while all struggle, the true mark of a believer is a posture of repentance and reliance on Christ, not self-righteousness. Ultimately, the church is called to be salt and light—not through performance, but through a Spirit-led life that reflects Christ's character.

The sermon centers on the biblical call to cultivate intentional, God-honoring friendships rooted in reverence for the Lord and obedience to His precepts, drawing from Psalm 119:63 as a foundation. It emphasizes that while friendship is inherently good—mirroring the relational unity of the Trinity and exemplified in faithful relationships like David and Jonathan—it must be carefully discerned to ensure it fosters spiritual growth rather than compromise. The preacher warns against companionship with those who do not fear God or live by His Word, citing Scripture to show how such relationships lead to spiritual harm, corruption, and distraction from Christ. True friendship, the message insists, is defined by mutual commitment to God's truth, accountability, and encouragement to live righteously, even when it requires sacrifice. Ultimately, the call is to evaluate one's relationships not by comfort or convenience, but by their ability to draw one closer to Christ, urging believers to prioritize fellowship with those who provoke good works and deepen faith.

The sermon centers on the ethical and spiritual imperative of the Golden Rule—treating others as one wishes to be treated—as the culmination of Jesus' teaching on righteous judgment and discipleship in Matthew 7. Rooted in the law and the prophets, this principle is not a universal moral guideline but a distinctive mark of the believer's transformed heart, grounded in love for God and neighbor, and exemplified by Christ's sacrificial love. The message emphasizes that proper judgment begins with self-examination, repentance, and humility, rejecting hypocrisy and self-righteousness in favor of restoration, mercy, and grace. The narrow path of discipleship, though difficult and few in number, leads to life by requiring continual inward transformation, while the broad way of worldly self-interest and condemnation leads to destruction. Ultimately, the Golden Rule is not a rule of self-fulfillment but a call to embody Christ's character in all relationships, reflecting God's love and justice in a broken world.

This sermon, rooted in Matthew 7:7–11, presents a profound call to persistent, heartfelt dependence on God as the essence of authentic discipleship. Centered on the imperative to 'ask, seek, and knock,' it emphasizes that these actions are not mere requests for material blessings but expressions of a desperate, ongoing trust in God's faithfulness, especially in the midst of spiritual struggle and relational brokenness. The preacher underscores that true discipleship begins with inner transformation—heart surgery, as it were—where repentance and a renewed heart precede righteous living, enabling believers to judge others not with condemnation but with Christlike humility and discernment. The passage is not a promise of worldly prosperity, but a divine assurance that God, as a loving Father, will give good spiritual gifts—especially the grace to be restored, to discern rightly, and to love others sacrificially—when believers come before Him in humility and persistent prayer. Ultimately, the sermon calls the church to a life of weeping prayer for the lost, self-examination, and reliance on God's perfect provision, proving His faithfulness through the very nature of His fatherly love.

The sermon centers on Psalm 46:10, emphasizing that true peace comes from knowing God as the eternal, sovereign, and triune Creator who is both transcendent and personally present. It challenges common misconceptions about God—such as modalism, partialism, and subordinationism—while affirming His unity, holiness, omnipresence, and personal care. Through biblical examples of human failure and divine faithfulness, the message underscores that trust in God is rooted not in human perfection but in His redemptive work through Christ, who bore the penalty for sin. The call to 'be still' is presented not as passive inaction but as a posture of surrender, recognizing God's sovereignty and trusting His character amid life's turmoil. Ultimately, the sermon invites listeners to know God personally, to trust Him in all circumstances, and to respond with faith, obedience, and continual seeking.

The sermon centers on the psalmist's profound devotion to God, exemplified by rising at midnight to give thanks for His righteous judgments, illustrating that true worship is timeless and unceasing. It emphasizes that believers, like the Levitical priests consumed by the temple, should be continually preoccupied with God's Word, which is righteous, eternal, and the foundation of a life aligned with divine truth. The preacher calls the congregation to reject worldly comparisons and cultivate a heart of gratitude in all circumstances, recognizing that God's justice, even in trials, is always right and redemptive. Through practical exhortations—daily Bible reading, faithful church attendance, and engagement with biblical resources—the message urges believers to be consumed by God's Word, cherishing it above all else and allowing it to transform their hearts and lives.

This sermon, rooted in Matthew 7:6, presents a nuanced understanding of Christian witness and discernment, emphasizing that believers are entrusted with sacred spiritual truths—symbolized by 'holy things' and 'pearls'—which must be protected from those who reject or misuse them. Drawing on the metaphor of dogs and swine, the message identifies nominal believers, particularly religious hypocrites like the Pharisees, as those who have heard the gospel yet scorn or distort it, making it unwise to persist in sharing it with them. The central teaching is not a call to abandon evangelism, but to exercise biblical discernment: while the gospel is to be proclaimed widely, once it is rejected by someone who has heard it, believers are to withdraw with grace, dusting off their feet as Jesus instructed, without coercion or futile debate. The sermon underscores that judgment within the church is restorative and rooted in repentance, while outside the church, believers are not to judge but to trust God's sovereign work in hearts, using wisdom to steward the gospel with care and purpose.

The sermon centers on the necessity of a firm grip on God's Word amid life's trials, drawing from Psalm 119:61 and the story of David and Goliath to illustrate that the Christian life is inherently marked by opposition and persecution, yet sustained by faith in God's faithfulness. It emphasizes that while the 'cords of the wicked' bind believers through fear, temptation, and suffering, the believer's response is not retreat but steadfast adherence to Scripture, as seen in the psalmist's declaration that he has not forgotten God's law. Through the example of David, the sermon highlights how true strength comes not from human might or armor, but from trusting in God's past victories and present presence, even when facing overwhelming odds. The final call is to store God's Word in the heart not merely for personal comfort, but as a living foundation for boldness, testimony, and enduring faith that transforms both the believer and those around them. The tone is both pastoral and urgent, calling the church to resist compromise and to stand firm in the face of cultural and spiritual adversity.

This sermon unpacks Jesus' teaching in Matthew 7:1–5, clarifying that while believers are not to engage in hypocritical, self-righteous judgment, they are called to discernment rooted in humility and repentance. The central message emphasizes that true discipleship requires first addressing one's own sin—symbolized by the 'plank' in the eye—before seeking to correct others' faults, which are likened to 'specks.' The preacher underscores that judgment devoid of grace and self-examination leads to divine judgment in return, as God measures our treatment of others by the same standard we use. Drawing from both Matthew and Luke, the sermon warns against the dangers of unrepentant sin blinding believers to spiritual truth, rendering them incapable of offering genuine restoration. Ultimately, the call is to a life of personal holiness, where repentance precedes correction, and love for others flows from a heart reconciled to Christ.

The sermon centers on Jesus' command to His disciples not to worry about the future, grounding this instruction in the unshakable trust that God, as a faithful Father, provides for all needs. Drawing from Matthew 6:25–34, it emphasizes that believers are of greater value than birds and grass, and thus can confidently rely on God's provision rather than anxious speculation. The message warns against the pervasive anxiety of the world, highlighting how Christians are often discipled by cultural fear rather than by Christ's peace, and exposes the spiritual danger of making worry a habit or even a form of false comfort. It calls for a radical reorientation—letting God be God and embracing human dependence as creatures—by rejecting the flesh's desire to control the unknown, resisting the influence of anxious media and relationships, and trusting in God's past faithfulness as a guarantee of future provision. Ultimately, the sermon invites believers to live in the present with calm confidence, knowing that Christ's sacrifice and resurrection secure eternal peace beyond all earthly uncertainty.

This sermon centers on the profound discipline required of the Christian life, drawing from Psalm 119's structure and devotion to God's Word as a model for spiritual order and urgency. It emphasizes that true Christian discipline is not merely external obedience but an internal posture rooted in a transformed heart, where believers move hastily to keep God's commandments out of love and reverence, not obligation. The preacher uses military and athletic discipline as analogies to illustrate the necessity of order, focus, and prioritization, arguing that the Christian's motivation—eternal communion with God—is far greater than any earthly cause. The message calls believers to evaluate their lives for distractions, reclaim time through intentional stewardship, and cultivate accountability, all to protect and prioritize their relationship with God. Ultimately, disciplined living becomes a testimony of faith, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ in everyday life and inviting others to see God's glory in the order and integrity of a life devoted to Him.

The sermon centers on Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:31–33, calling believers to reject anxiety by seeking God's kingdom and righteousness above all else, grounded in the assurance that their heavenly Father knows their needs and will provide. It emphasizes that anxiety stems from misplaced priorities—seeking worldly fulfillment rather than Christ—revealing a lack of faith in God's provision, as demonstrated through nature's care for birds and lilies. The preacher contrasts the believer's freedom from anxiety with the world's perpetual worry, warning against conforming to worldly values or misusing Scripture to justify materialism, and instead calls for a radical, Christ-centered life marked by dependence on prayer, fasting, and the renewal of the mind. Ultimately, true contentment is found not in earthly possessions or circumstances, but in a daily, longing pursuit of Christ, who is the source of all provision and the foundation of a life free from anxiety.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:59, emphasizing the necessity of self-examination, the rejection of self-reliant human ways, and the deliberate turning toward God's eternal testimonies. It warns against the peril of trusting one's own wisdom, citing biblical examples from Judges, Proverbs, and the lives of kings who perished by following their own desires, and contrasts this with the life of Christ, who calls believers to forsake all for His sake. The message underscores that human ways, though often appealing or satisfying, lead to spiritual death, while God's Word—living, authoritative, and eternal—offers true life, correction, and righteousness. The preacher calls listeners to actively turn from their fleshly inclinations, embrace Scripture as the ultimate guide, and live in faithful obedience, urging both believers and non-believers to abandon self-directed paths and submit to Christ's way through diligent engagement with the Bible.

The sermon centers on the biblical imperative to please God through wholehearted obedience and faith, rooted in His revealed Word and promises. It emphasizes that true delight in God is not found in human preferences or self-centered desires, but in aligning one's life—heart, actions, and prayers—with His will, as demonstrated in the psalmist's earnest plea for favor according to God's word. The preacher underscores that pleasing God requires a transformed life marked by faith, daily surrender, and moral integrity, rejecting hypocrisy and worldly conformity, while calling believers to live as living sacrifices that honor God in all areas of life. A key application is that genuine prayer and spiritual growth are grounded in Scripture, consistent prayer, and faithful church community, all aimed at glorifying God rather than satisfying personal ambition. Ultimately, the message affirms that only those whose lives are fully devoted to Christ and His promises will find eternal life, making the pursuit of divine pleasure the highest and most enduring purpose of the Christian life.

The sermon centers on the transformative power of faith in overcoming anxiety, rooted in the conviction that God's provision and care are both certain and sufficient. Drawing from Matthew 6:25–30, it emphasizes that believers, created for God's glory and valued far more than birds or flowers, are called to trust in Christ's faithful provision rather than succumb to worry. The preacher identifies little faith as the root of anxiety, illustrating how even the disciples struggled with doubt, and contrasts the believer's identity—marked by divine purpose and eternal significance—with the fleeting concerns of this world. Through vivid imagery of nature and historical examples like Abraham's failure in Egypt, the message underscores that faithlessness leads to fear, deception, and flight from God's promises, while true faith results in peace and obedience. Ultimately, the sermon calls the church to fix their eyes on Christ, to live in the reality of God's sovereignty, and to be known not by their anxieties but by their unwavering trust in His goodness.

The sermon centers on Matthew 6:27, using Jesus' instruction not to worry as a lens to expose the root of anxiety as a form of self-pity and manipulation, where believers attempt to compel God to change His sovereign will through emotional distress. Drawing from vivid illustrations of children demanding attention and biblical examples like Adam and Eve, Cain, and David, it reveals that anxiety stems from a desire for control, a failure to trust God's perfect plan, and a prideful belief that personal circumstances could be improved by overriding divine decree. The message affirms that God's unchanging nature, eternal sovereignty, and predestined good for each believer render anxiety futile, as no amount of worry can alter God's purpose or extend life. Instead, the solution lies in actively taking every thought captive, renewing the mind through Scripture, and embracing God's present provision as the best possible reality, regardless of outward circumstances, thereby cultivating contentment and trust in His faithful, unchanging character.

The central message of the sermon is that true Christian identity is found not in self-promotion or worldly achievements, but in knowing and treasuring the Lord as one's ultimate portion, as expressed in Psalm 119:57. Drawing from biblical contrasts—Cain's lineage known for building cities and forging weapons, versus Seth's line known for calling on the name of the Lord—the preacher emphasizes that believers are to be recognized not for their accomplishments, but for their intimate relationship with God and their love for His Word. The sermon calls the audience to examine whether they are known for their devotion to Christ and their hunger for Scripture, illustrated through passionate devotion, daily meditation, and a joy in God's Word that surpasses even honey or gold. It challenges nominal faith by affirming that a genuine desire for God's Word is the hallmark of a living faith, and urges believers to cultivate a life marked by spiritual appetite, accountability, and joyful obedience to Scripture.

The sermon, drawn from Matthew 6:25–26, centers on the profound truth that believers are of immeasurable value to God, surpassing even the most precious earthly treasures, and calls Christians to reject anxiety rooted in self-doubt or worldly comparison. It emphasizes that God's care for His disciples is demonstrated through His provision for even the birds of the air, affirming that if He sustains creation, He will certainly care for His chosen people. The message unfolds through three key points: believers are more valuable than any earthly possession, more precious than any creature in God's creation, and must resist the lies of a culture that devalues identity based on appearance, status, or performance. Grounded in Scripture—such as Ephesians 1 and Romans 8—the sermon affirms that a believer's worth is not earned but secured by God's sovereign love, predestination, and union with Christ, making trust in His daily provision the natural response of a heart that knows its true worth. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a transformed identity rooted in divine affirmation, leading to peace, confidence, and worship rather than anxiety or self-reliance.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:56, emphasizing that a deep, personal relationship with God's Word is cultivated through consistent meditation, memorization, and obedience, transforming Scripture from external teaching into an internal possession. Drawing from the psalmist's experience, it portrays God's Word as a song sung daily and pondered through the night, becoming so intimately known that it is no longer foreign but truly 'mine.' The preacher illustrates this through vivid metaphors—like a cherished Christmas gift or a well-worn vacuum—highlighting how repeated engagement makes God's Word a natural, joyful part of one's identity. The message underscores that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but a lived reality, demonstrated in how believers speak, think, and act, as seen in Peter's bold proclamation, Jesus' resistance to temptation, and the faithful lives of biblical figures. Ultimately, the sermon affirms that those who keep God's precepts are blessed with eternal rewards, including eternal life, a new name, a white stone, and the privilege of sitting with Christ on His throne, revealing that the faithful are not only recipients of God's Word but heirs of His eternal promise.

Title: Reason For Anxiety: Because We Can't Control the Situation Speaker: Creston Thomas Series: Matthew Date: December 21, 2025 Bible: Matthew 6:25 The sermon centers on the transformative truth that true discipleship requires surrendering control to God, rooted in the reality of Christ's incarnation and unwavering love. It confronts the deep-seated human tendency to seek security through material possessions and self-reliance, tracing this impulse to the fall and the resulting fear that drives anxiety. Drawing from Matthew 6:25, the message emphasizes that worry stems from a divided heart and a failure to trust God's provision, especially when we forget our identity in Christ and His sovereign care. The solution is not self-effort but radical submission to God's perfect control, grounded in the gospel: Christ died for sinners not because they were worthy, but because they were loved. This profound truth frees believers from the burden of anxiety, inviting them to rest in God's faithfulness, knowing they are more valuable than food or clothing, and that His plan is always greater than their fears.

The sermon centers on Psalm 119:55, emphasizing that true believers are consumed with remembering and keeping God's law, not out of obligation but as a natural expression of their deep affection for Him. It challenges the congregation to recognize that a lack of interest in Scripture is not a memory issue but a heart issue—evidence of spiritual disengagement rather than genuine faith. Through vivid illustrations, the message underscores that consistent meditation on God's word, like habitual practice in any discipline, shapes the mind and character, making obedience a joyful reflex rather than a burden. The preacher calls Christians to cultivate a lifestyle of daily engagement with Scripture, not merely for knowledge but for transformation, highlighting that obedience and remembrance are inseparable marks of a life truly devoted to God. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a radical reorientation of priorities, where God's Word becomes the central obsession of the believer's life, shaping thoughts, actions, and relationships.

The sermon centers on the transformative power of God's statutes, presenting them not as burdensome rules but as life-giving melodies that guide conduct and shape speech. Drawing from Psalm 119:54, it emphasizes that God's law—particularly the Ten Commandments—serves as a constant, joyful song for the believer navigating a foreign world, offering direction and comfort in trials. The message unfolds through a practical exposition of each commandment, showing how they govern both behavior and communication, revealing humanity's need for grace while pointing to Christ as the perfect fulfillment of the law. As sojourners in a world not our own, believers are called to live distinctively, rooted in divine instruction, which exposes sin yet ultimately leads to redemption through Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to treasure God's statutes above all earthly things, recognizing them as the enduring source of peace, identity, and hope in a broken world.

The sermon centers on the call to prioritize heavenly treasures over earthly possessions, grounding this exhortation in Matthew 6:19–24, where Jesus contrasts temporary, corruptible earthly wealth with eternal, incorruptible heavenly rewards. It emphasizes that true discipleship involves a radical reorientation of the heart, rejecting idolatry in all forms—whether wealth, status, or personal achievements—and instead cultivating a life marked by spiritual disciplines like fasting, prayer, and almsgiving that reflect a deeper dependence on God. The preacher underscores that the Christian identity is defined by a unique unity and holiness, not by worldly standards, and warns that serving both God and mammon is impossible, as the heart's allegiance determines one's entire life direction. Ultimately, the message calls believers to examine their priorities, repent of misplaced affections, and live with a singular focus on Christ, whose eternal kingdom is the only true and lasting treasure.

This sermon presents fasting as a vital spiritual discipline essential for every disciple, not as a legalistic ritual or a means to earn favor, but as a deliberate act of dependence on God that shapes the believer's heart and character. Rooted in Scripture from both the Old and New Testaments, it emphasizes that biblical fasting is the intentional abstention from food to cultivate spiritual sensitivity, deepen prayer, and confront personal struggles such as anger, lust, or anxiety, rather than serving as a tool for self-improvement, weight loss, or religious performance. The preacher underscores that fasting is not defined by rigid rules or prescribed durations, but by a personal, heartfelt response to life's trials and spiritual needs, preparing believers to trust God in times of desperation and to grow in Christlikeness. By contrasting biblical fasting with its misuse in other religions and in superficial Christian practice, the message calls the church to reclaim this discipline as a means of spiritual renewal, humility, and intimacy with God, ultimately aligning the believer's life with the pattern of Christ's own preparation in the wilderness.

The sermon centers on the biblical call for believers to cultivate a righteous indignation against sin, rooted in the Holy Spirit's work to align the heart with God's holiness. Drawing from Psalm 119, it emphasizes that true faith produces a deep aversion to sin and a passionate hatred for the rejection of God's law, reflecting the divine nature of God Himself. The preacher argues that this holy anger is not merely emotional but a spiritual warfare response to the world's normalization of sin, urging believers to reject cultural compromise and stand firm in truth, even at the cost of relationships. It warns against the danger of nominal Christianity that tolerates unrepentant sin while affirming that genuine faith results in a transformed affection—loving what God loves and hating what God hates. Ultimately, the message calls the church to prioritize eternal spiritual kinship over worldly ties, affirming that true family is found in Christ alone, and that enduring faithfulness to God's Word, though costly, is the only path to eternal life.