First Baptist Church of Wisconsin Rapids

Text: 2 Peter 3:14-18Preacher: Josh Kohn summaryHow our outlook on the future, especially the hope of a new heaven and new earth, should influence our present living. Emphasizes diligence in faith, the importance of understanding scripture, and living in anticipation of Christ's return. keywordsChristian living, hope, faith, scripture, diligence, second coming, salvation, perseverance, biblical teaching key topicsThe importance of hope in Christian lifeDiligence in faith and good worksUnderstanding and interpreting scripture, especially Paul's writingsThe significance of God's patience and salvationLiving in anticipation of Christ's return and the new creation sound bites"The biggest lottery win of all time is Jesus Christ.""Our hearts are restless until they rest in Him.""Live with a steadfast hope as an anchor for the soul."Chapters00:00 Introduction: The impact of future hope on present life01:18 Would you live differently if you knew you would win the lottery?02:41 How hope changes our attitude towards mundane tasks04:57 The Christian hope for a new heavens and a new earth07:01 Living today as if we expect to live in the new creation08:40 The greatest lottery win: being in Christ10:59 All things are ours in Christ, surpassing worldly riches13:40 The importance of diligence and living without spot15:48 The gospel's promise of righteousness and our pursuit of holiness17:42 God’s patience as salvation and the call to repentance20:37 Faith, patience, and inheriting God's promises22:40 The danger of living in sin and the importance of perseverance25:47 Beware of false teachers and twisted scripture28:36 Growing in grace and knowledge to remain steadfast32:54 The surpassing worth of Christ and living in hope33:29 Conclusion: Living with a steadfast hope and diligence

Text: 2 Peter 2:18-22Preacher: Josh Kohn keywordsFalse teachers, Christian liberty, Sin, Salvation, Biblical warning, Christian living, Gospel, Spiritual freedom, Peter, Biblical teaching key topicsFalse teachers as wells without water and clouds without rainThe deception of false promises of libertySlavery to sin and corruptionThe danger of falling back into old sins after professing faithThe importance of genuine repentance and transformationThe warning of worse judgment for those who turn away from ChristThe biblical analogy of dogs returning to vomit and pigs to mudThe true freedom found in Christ, not in sinThe importance of living a life rooted in God's word and grace

Text: 2 Peter 2:1-3Preacher: Josh Kohn

Preacher: Josh Kohn

Preacher: Josh Kohn keywordsGospel, Reminders, Spiritual Growth, Eternal Life, Grace, Exodus, Sanctification, Christian Living key topicsThe importance of reminders in spiritual growthThe analogy of maple syrup boiling to spiritual stirringThe biblical concept of exodus from sinThe need for constant spiritual nourishmentLiving with an eternal perspective

Text: 1 Peter 5:6-14Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 5:1-5Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 4:12-19Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 John 5:1-5Preacher: Jeffrey Visser

Text: Luke 24:1-12Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 4:7-11Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 4:1-6Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 3:18-22Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 3:13-17Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 3:8-12Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 3:7Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 3:1-6Preacher: Josh Kohn

KeywordsChristianity, suffering, patience, Christ, example, faith, endurance, hope, cross, graceSummaryIn this sermon, Pastor Josh discusses the importance of suffering patiently as Christians. The speaker emphasizes that Christians are called to endure suffering, especially when wrongfully accused, and to follow Christ's example of patience and grace. The power of the cross is highlighted as a source of hope and healing, encouraging believers to maintain their faith and conduct themselves commendably in the face of trials.TakeawaysChristians ought to suffer patiently even when suffering wrongfully because Christ suffered wrongfully for us.The way we respond to suffering can impact others' perception of our faith.Peter commands believers to endure suffering as commendable in the sight of God.Christ's example serves as a model for how to endure suffering.Suffering wrongfully can be a powerful testimony about one's faith.The cross of Christ provides the enabling power to endure suffering.Believers are called to follow in Christ's footsteps, even in hardship.The Christian life is shaped by Christ's suffering.There is hope and healing found in the power of the cross.Enduring suffering with grace can commend Christ to those around us.Sound Bites"Christ committed no sin.""There is power in the cross.""Remember Christ's example."Chapters00:00 Introduction of Missionaries00:49 Transition to Preaching01:18 The Story of Two Boys and Their Choices04:51 The Call to Suffer Patiently14:03 Following Christ's Example26:42 The Power of the Cross36:24 Conclusion

SummaryIn this sermon, Josh emphasizes the importance of strong leadership within the church, advocating for a unified board of elders to guide the congregation effectively. He argues that while tradition has its place, it must be examined against the teachings of Scripture to ensure the church remains focused on its mission. Josh highlights the necessity of appointing elders who are not only knowledgeable but also possess strong character, as they are tasked with shepherding the flock under Christ's guidance. He stresses that leadership should not be informal or unaccountable, as this can lead to disunity and hinder the church's mission. Instead, a well-structured leadership model is essential for the church to thrive and fulfill its purpose.Keywordschurch leadership, elders, shepherding, biblical authority, church mission, strong leadership, unity in church, character of elders, church governance, spiritual growthTakeawaysWe do not mean that tradition is bad. We mean bad tradition is bad.No army can take a field of battle or accomplish an objective without leadership.A church can weather any storm with a strong and unified board.Sound Bites"We do not mean that tradition is bad.""No army can take a field of battle without leadership.""This is God's flock. We are the sheep of His pasture."Chapters00:00 Prayer for the Church01:44 The Importance of Tradition and Leadership15:32 Defining the Role of Elders30:20 The Call to Action for the Church

Keywordschange, church, tradition, innovation, adaptation, growth, unity, mission, faith, communitySummaryIn this sermon, Josh emphasizes the importance of change within the church, drawing parallels between organizational growth and the necessity of adapting to new circumstances. He discusses the dangers of clinging to tradition without understanding its relevance, using the metaphor of the railroad's width dictated by irrelevant historical precedents (a horse's rear). Josh advocates for a church that is responsive to its mission while remaining rooted in its foundational faith. He encourages unity and collaboration among church members to fulfill their collective purpose in spreading the gospel.TakeawaysChange is essential for growth and innovation.Tradition can stifle progress if not critically examined.Churches must not change their message but adapt to communicate effectively.Resistance to change is common but can be overcome.The church's mission is to make disciples of Jesus Christ.Unity in the church is crucial for effective ministry.Unexamined tradition ought not dictate current actions.God's word should guide church governance and practices.The church must focus on its mission rather than internal disputes.Christ's vision for the church is one of growth and outreach.Sound Bites"That's the way we've always done it.""Churches can change or they can die.""Not my church, but your church."Chapters00:00 The Importance of Unity in Prayer01:44 The Challenge of Change07:05 Tradition vs. Innovation13:41 The Necessity of Change20:49 Moving Forward Together25:18 Christ's Church and Our Role28:49 Grace and Obedience31:40 Closing Remarks and Benediction

Keywordsprayer, church, discipleship, salvation, spiritual growth, evangelism, Christian ministry, fruitfulness, devotion, faithSummaryIn this sermon, Pastor Josh emphasizes the critical role of prayer in the life of the church and individual believers. He discusses the nature of salvation as both a gift and a miracle, the importance of bearing fruit as disciples of Christ, and the cost of true discipleship. The conversation highlights the necessity of prayer in ministry and provides practical steps for effective prayer, concluding with a reminder of the privilege of communicating with God.TakeawaysAll churches should work hard at prayer and evangelism.Prayer is essential for effective ministry and fruitfulness.Salvation is a gift from God, but it is also a miracle.Discipleship requires a commitment to prayer and bearing fruit.The cost of discipleship may involve difficult choices.Real spiritual fruit is produced through prayer and devotion.Prayer is a powerful weapon in spiritual battles.Anyone can pray at any time, and it is essential for growth.Use scripture to deepen your prayer life.Don't lose heart in prayer; persistence is key.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Prayer01:18 Understanding Salvation24:35 The Power of Prayer in Ministry30:22 Conclusion

Text: Heb. 2:14-18Preacher: Josh KohnKeywordspreaching, prayer, incarnation, Christ, salvation, grace, high priest, sacrifice, faith, ChristmasSummaryThis sermon explores the profound themes of the incarnation of Christ, and the nature of salvation. It emphasizes the importance of understanding through experience, the purpose of Christ's coming, and the grace of God in our salvation. It highlights the significance of Christ as our high priest and the miracle of the incarnation, culminating in a call to believe in the good news of salvation through faith in Christ.TakeawaysChrist had to be made like his people in order to save them.The purpose of Christ's coming was to destroy the power of death.Salvation is an act of God's free grace, not obligation.Christ's sacrifice was necessary for our redemption.He is a merciful and faithful high priest for us.Christ experienced temptation but never sinned.The incarnation is a miracle that we celebrate at Christmas.God justifies the ungodly through faith in Christ.We must plead for God's mercy as sinners.Believing in Christ is essential for eternal life.Sound Bites"Christ had to be made like his people.""God justifies the ungodly.""He came to take our place on the cross."Chapters00:00 The Incarnation of Christ27:53 Christ as Our High Priest32:58 Conclusion and Invitation

Text: 1 Peter 2:11-12Preacher: Josh KohnKeywordsBenedict Arnold, honor, fleshly lusts, Christian conduct, cultural challenges, sexual morality, consequences of indulgence, seeking freedom, impact of conduct, reality of sinSummaryThis sermon explores the themes of honor, the struggle against fleshly lusts, and the impact of our conduct as Christians. It begins with a prayer and a historical account of Benedict Arnold, illustrating the importance of maintaining integrity even in the face of criticism. It delves into the cultural challenges surrounding sexual morality and the consequences of indulgence, emphasizing the need for abstaining from sinful desires. Ultimately, it highlights the transformative power of Christ and the call to live honorably, glorifying God through our actions.TakeawaysWe should conduct ourselves with honor even when criticized.Fleshly lusts wage war against our souls.Cultural challenges are leading to moral decay.Indulgence in lusts can have catastrophic consequences.There is freedom in Christ from sinful desires.Our conduct can lead others to glorify God.We must make war against our sinful passions.Christ's example shows us how to live honorably.We are all sinners in need of grace.God's grace empowers us to live a life of honor.Sound Bites"We should conduct ourselves with honor.""These lusts wage war against your soul.""The barbarians are within the gates."Chapters00:00 Conducting Ourselves with Honor02:09 The Story of Benedict Arnold07:21 The Nature of Fleshly Lusts12:21 Cultural Deceptions and Consequences13:25 The Call to Chastity and Honor in Marriage14:21 The Impact of Hyper-Sexualization on Society16:08 The Rise of Online Platforms and Their Consequences18:15 The Dangers of Addiction and Lack of Self-Control20:08 The Spiritual Consequences of Indulgence22:08 The Path to Freedom in Christ23:39 Living with Honor and Integrity25:39 The Challenge of Slander and Perseverance29:13 The Call to Conduct Ourselves Honorably33:28 The Good News of Christ's Perfection35:34 The Importance of the Lord's Supper

Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 1:17-21Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 1:10-16Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 1:6-9Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 Peter 1:1-5Preacher: Josh Kohn

Text: RevelationSpeaker: Josh Kohn

Text: HabakkukPreacher: Brian ThorstadCheck out Brian's church health ministry at helping churchesthrive.com!

Text: HabakkukPreacher: Brian ThorstadCheck out Brian's church health ministry at helpingchurchesthrive.com!

Text: JudePreacher: Josh Kohn

In the wake of the assassination of Charlie Kirk, as well as other recent unprovoked violence from the left, what does the Christian faith have to say?

Text: 1 JohnPreacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 2 PeterPreacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 PeterPreacher: Josh Kohn

Text: JamesPreacher: Josh Kohn

Text: PhilemonPreacher: Josh Kohn

Text: TitusPreacher: Josh Kohn

KeywordsChristian faith, good deposit, generational faith, roles of men and women, sound teaching, church, gospel, justification, Paul, TimothySummaryIn this sermon, Pastor Josh emphasizes the importance of guarding the Christian faith as a valuable deposit entrusted to believers. Drawing from the letters of Paul to Timothy, he highlights the generational aspect of faith, the distinct roles of men and women in the church, and the necessity of holding fast to sound teaching. He warns against the dangers of cultural conformity and the need for the church to provide a unique and compelling message that cannot be found elsewhere. Ultimately, the call is to preserve and pass down the good deposit of faith for future generations.TakeawaysGuard the good deposit entrusted to you.The Christian faith is a valuable deposit.Faith must be passed down through generations.Men are called to lead in the church.Women have essential teaching roles.Justification is by faith, not works.Hold fast to sound teaching from scripture.The church must be unique in its message.Cultural conformity threatens the church's integrity.Preserve the faith for future generations.

Text: 2 ThessaloniansPreacher: Josh Kohn

Text: 1 ThessaloniansPreacher: Josh KohnKeywordshope, second coming, affliction, conversion, mortality, faith, Christian life, wrath, deliverance, living for ChristSummaryIn this sermon, Josh reflects on the transient nature of life and the importance of placing hope in Christ, especially in the face of mortality and affliction. He discusses the second coming of Christ, emphasizing the need for conversion and the reality of suffering in the Christian life. It culminates in a call to live in light of the hope found in Christ, urging listeners to prepare for the coming of the Lord and to live lives that reflect their faith.TakeawaysLife is fleeting, and we must consider where we place our hope.The second coming of Christ is a central theme in Christian faith.Conversion is necessary; we are not born Christians but must become followers of Christ.Affliction and suffering are expected in the Christian life.The prosperity gospel contradicts the reality of Christian suffering.Christ delivers us from the wrath to come, offering hope to sinners.Death does not separate believers from Christ; they will be with Him forever.We should live in a way that reflects our hope in Christ.What we do in this life has eternal significance.We are called to rejoice and pray without ceasing, even in trials.Sound Bites"There is one hope for sinners.""Death will not part you from Christ.""What we do in life echoes in eternity."Chapters00:00 Afflictions and Trials in the Christian Life00:21 The Second Coming of Christ06:20 The Importance of Conversion15:23 Expecting Affliction and Living in Hope26:34 The Day of the Lord and Accountability28:29 The Hope of Resurrection32:32 Living in Light of Christ's Return

SummaryIn this sermon, Pastor Josh emphasizes the supremacy of Christ in all aspects of life, the importance of prayer, and the need for believers to seek Christ above all else. The discussion covers the themes of redemption, the authority of Christ, and the centrality of Christ in the church, urging listeners to recognize their need for Him and to live a life that reflects His preeminence.

Keywordsstandards, gospel, conduct, priorities, worship, Christian life, Philippians, faith, community, excellenceTakeawaysStandards in life are crucial for success.Conducting oneself in a manner worthy of the gospel is imperative.Unity in the church is vital for the faith.We must reassess our priorities in life and faith.Worship should be a priority, not an afterthought.The freedom to worship is often neglected.Our actions should reflect the gospel we believe in.We are called to strive together for the sake of the gospel.God's grace enables us to live to the glory of God. Our highest value should be God Himself.SummaryIn this sermon, Pastor Josh emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards in life, particularly in the context of faith and community. Drawing from personal experiences in athletics, he illustrates how holding high standards can lead to excellence and unity. The discussion transitions into the biblical call to conduct oneself in a manner worthy of the gospel, urging listeners to reassess their priorities and the importance of worship. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the freedom to worship and the need to live in response to the gospel, highlighting God's grace and the call to serve Him faithfully.Chapters00:00 Call to Worship and Prayer00:36 Sermon Introduction: Conduct Worthy of the Gospel05:51 Living in Unity and Striving Together14:11 Reassessing Priorities in Worship24:00 The Importance of Seeking God First30:47 The Gospel and Our Conduct35:02 Conclusion and Call to ActionSound Bites"Seek first the kingdom of heaven.""Let your conduct be worthy.""Seek to glorify God with this life."

Text: EphesiansSpeaker: Josh Kohn

SummaryIn this sermon, Josh discusses the complexities of understanding God's law and the gospel. He reflects on his personal journey of faith, the importance of sound teaching, and the dangers of distorted gospels that intertwine faith and works. He emphasizes the significance of grace and the assurance of salvation through faith alone, urging listeners to stand firm in their beliefs and to recognize the true nature of justification.TakeawaysGod's law is a high standard that is impossible to keep.The realization of one's need for mercy can lead to true faith.Sound teaching is crucial for spiritual health.False teachings can lead to spiritual confusion and danger.Justification is by faith alone, not by works.The gospel is a free gift, not earned by human effort.The consequences of false teaching are severe for both teachers and followers.Christ's sacrifice is sufficient for salvation.Believers are called to stand firm in their faith against distortions of the gospel.Understanding the true nature of justification brings assurance of salvation.Chapters00:00 The Struggle with God's Law04:59 The Journey to Understanding the Gospel08:11 The Importance of Sound Teaching14:08 The Danger of False Teachings20:10 The True Gospel vs. Distorted Teachings26:04 The Role of Works in Justification31:57 The Assurance of SalvationSound Bites"Sound teaching matters.""Let them be damned.""Doctrine matters."KeywordsGod's law, gospel, faith, works, justification, false teaching, grace, salvation, Christian teaching, church

KeywordsChristian life, Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teachings, grace, invitation, rest, burden, salvation, faith, spiritualitySummaryGuest preacher Brian Thorstad (www.helpingchurchesthrive.com) reflects on the Christian life, emphasizing its ease through the teachings of Jesus, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount. He discusses the depth of Jesus' teachings, the invitation to find rest in Him, and the grace that allows all to come to God, regardless of their burdens. He highlights the universal call to the weary and the importance of recognizing one's need for salvation.TakeawaysThe Christian life is often perceived as difficult, but it can be made easier through understanding Jesus' teachings.The Sermon on the Mount presents a radical redefinition of what it means to live as a follower of Christ.Jesus' teachings challenge superficial interpretations of the law, calling for deeper understanding and commitment.Recognizing our own helplessness is key to understanding our need for God's grace.Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him for rest.The call to come to Jesus is inclusive, extending to all who recognize their need for salvation.God's grace is evident throughout the Bible, not just in the New Testament.The law was intended to show the Jewish people their need for salvation, not to serve as a checklist for earning favor with God.Jesus cares deeply for those who are suffering and burdened, offering them hope and healing.Coming to Jesus allows us to stop striving for perfection and find true rest.Sound Bites"The Christian life is easy.""You must be perfect.""He just cares."Chapters00:00 The Christian Life: A Personal Reflection02:41 Understanding the Sermon on the Mount06:30 The Depth of God's Requirements11:04 Invitation to Rest in Christ14:09 God's Grace and Invitation to Sinners23:56 Jesus' Call to the Weary and Burdened

KeywordsChristianity, Charles Simeon, Paul, suffering, perseverance, gospel, ministry, weakness, faith, hopeSummaryThis sermon explores the themes of perseverance in faith, the significance of suffering in the Christian life, and the power of weakness as exemplified by the lives of Charles Simeon and the Apostle Paul. It emphasizes that true strength comes from reliance on God, especially in times of trial, and that the Christian journey is marked by a cross before a crown. TakeawaysThe Christian life is not free from suffering. Charles Simeon's perseverance serves as an example for all.Paul's authority was challenged, yet he remained steadfast.Suffering can lead to greater reliance on God.The message of the gospel is unchanging and powerful.Weakness can be a source of strength in ministry.True comfort comes from God during tribulations.The Christian's boast is in Christ's sacrifice.Our trials can manifest the life of Jesus in us.Hope in the resurrection is essential for perseverance.Sound Bites"My grace is sufficient for you.""When I am weak, then I am strong.""The power of God rests on us."Chapters00:00 The Power of the Holy Spirit01:19 The Life of Charles Simeon06:53 Paul's Ministry and Suffering10:47 The Christian Life: Cross Before Crown24:19 The Treasure in Earthen Vessels31:15 Boasting in Weakness and Perseverance34:08

Keywordsprayer, redemption, resurrection, grace, gospel, transformation, faith, Christ, salvation, EasterTakeawaysPrayer is essential for guidance and truth.The story of the two brothers illustrates the journey of sin and redemption.Redemption is possible through Christ, regardless of past mistakes.Grace is a central theme in understanding our relationship with God.The resurrection of Christ signifies a new beginning for believers.The resurrection is not just a historical event but has global significance.Christ's resurrection assures believers of eternal life and forgiveness.The gospel offers hope and a relationship with God through faith in Christ.All worldly achievements are insignificant compared to knowing Christ.The call to follow Christ requires a willingness to let go of past identities. Sound Bites"Christ is risen. Christ is Lord.""You don't have to die.""Your sins are buried with Christ."Chapters00:00 Sermon Introduction and Text01:17 The Story of Two Brothers08:22 The Importance of Christ's Resurrection23:19 The Good News of the Gospel28:56 Invitation to Faith and Baptism

If people are justified by faith alone, then what is the purpose of God's law?