All Episodes - Podcast Deleted

"What Do You Do When The Bottom Falls Out?" [Matthew 7:24-27]

"Jesus and the Idols We Defend" [Acts 19:21-41]

When the gospel starts changing lives, it does more than inspire, it disrupts.In Acts 19:21–41, a city erupts into chaos, not because of bad theology, but because Jesus threatens what people trust most. Money. Security. Identity. Reputation.In this message, “Jesus and the Idols We Defend,” we’ll see why idols always demand protection, why emotional outrage often replaces reason, and why wherever the gospel advances, something false gets exposed.The question is not whether we have idols. The question is what happens when Jesus to...

“What the Locusts Left Behind” [Joel 1:1-20]

"Back to Plan A" [Micah 7:8-20]

In this message from Micah 7:8–20, we are reminded that God’s justice is real, but his mercy is greater. Though sin brings consequences, repentance opens the door for restoration. Micah shows us a God who does not ignore wrongdoing, yet delights to forgive, rebuild, and bring his people back to his original design.If you have fallen, this sermon offers hope: God’s mercy triumphs over judgment. When we turn to him, he steps into our darkness, restores what was broken, and brings us back to his faithful Plan “A.”

“From Incomplete to Equipped” [Acts 19:1-10]

The sermon explored Acts 19:1-10, where Paul encounters sincere disciples in Ephesus whose faith was genuine but incomplete. These believers had responded to John's baptism of repentance but had not yet experienced the fullness of life in Christ through the Holy Spirit. Paul's response wasn't to question their sincerity but to move them forward in their understanding and experience. This passage reminds us that sincere belief is not the same as complete discipleship. God doesn't shame incomplete disciples; He patiently equips them. The implications for our spiritual life are profound: we must remain teachable, willing to discover that God...

"The Courtroom" [Micah 6:1-7:7]

The sermon explored God's case against Israel (and by extension, against us) for our persistent sin and ingratitude. Through Micah's prophecy, we witnessed the Lord acting as prosecutor, calling creation itself as witness to His faithfulness while exposing humanity's complete inability to justify itself. This courtroom scene reveals a sobering truth: God will never turn a blind eye to sin because He is perfectly just. Yet this same passage points us toward the only hope we have—the sacrifice of God's own Son, Jesus Christ. The implications for our spiritual life are profound: we must abandon any notion that we...

"The Next Step" [Acts 18:18-28]

In Acts 18:18–28, we are reminded that faithful obedience to the gospel often looks like taking the next step God places in front of us, together, not alone. This passage shows how the gospel keeps moving forward when believers finish well, remain humble enough to keep growing, and willingly release one another for greater fruitfulness. Paul models obedience by leaving fruitful ministry at the right time, trusting God to continue the work. Apollos reminds us that growth is not reserved for new believers, even gifted and faithful Christians need ongoing discipleship. Priscilla, Aquila, and the church in Ephesus show us th...

“I Am With You: Encouragement for the Weary Servant” [Acts 18:1-17]

The sermon explores Acts 18:1-17, examining how God encouraged the Apostle Paul during one of his most challenging seasons of ministry in Corinth. We discovered that discouragement is not a sign of unfaithfulness, but rather an opportunity to experience how the Father supplies encouragement in unexpected and powerful ways. Just as God met Paul in his weariness through people, gospel fruit, personal promises, and sovereign protection, He continues to meet His servants today in the midst of their struggles, not by removing the difficulty but by strengthening us within it.

“I am with you” [Acts 18:1-17]

The sermon explores Acts 18:1-17, examining how God encouraged the Apostle Paul during one of his most challenging seasons of ministry in Corinth. We discover that discouragement is not a sign of unfaithfulness, but rather an opportunity to experience how the Father supplies encouragement in unexpected and powerful ways. Just as God met Paul in his weariness through people, gospel fruit, personal promises, and sovereign protection, He continues to meet His servants today in the midst of their struggles, not by removing the difficulty but by strengthening us within it.

The Judges Cycle - David Tori

The Book of Judges is a dramatic account of Israel's descent into sin and chaos following the death of Joshua. It functions as a historical warning and a theological primer on God's steadfast grace, culminating in the cry for a perfect King. The series title highlights the tension between Israel's continuous self-destruction (Chaos) and God's relentless, promised faithfulness (Covenant) to rescue them anyway.

"Unknown to Known" [Acts 17:16-34]

We live in a culture full of spirituality but starving for truth, much like ancient Athens. Acts 17 shows us a better response than outrage or retreat: careful observation that leads to compassionate engagement. Paul saw the idols, the philosophies, and the searching hearts behind them, and his spirit was stirred not to anger, but to love. He went where God led, into uncomfortable spaces and difficult conversations, trusting the Lord with the results. When the moment came, Paul did not soften the message, he proclaimed God as Creator, Sustainer, Sovereign, Judge, and Jesus as the risen proof of coming...

Covenant & Chaos - Mark Fuller & David Tori

The Book of Judges is a dramatic account of Israel's descent into sin and chaos following the death of Joshua. It functions as a historical warning and a theological primer on God's steadfast grace, culminating in the cry for a perfect King. The series title highlights the tension between Israel's continuous self-destruction (Chaos) and God's relentless, promised faithfulness (Covenant) to rescue them anyway.

"Turning the World Right Side Up" [Acts 17:1-15]

In this message Pastor Brian explores Acts 17:1–15 and shows how the gospel does not create chaos but exposes the disorder already caused by sin and begins restoring what God designed to be good. As Paul clearly proclaims Jesus as King, the message produces real responses: some resist it, some examine it carefully, and some receive it in faith. This sermon calls listeners to see that the gospel never leaves anyone neutral and invites each person to respond with discernment, faithfulness, and surrender as God continues His unstoppable work of setting things right

"New Year. Same Mission." [Acts 16:16-40]

We like to plan our lives, especially our spiritual growth, but Scripture reminds us that God rarely follows our script. Acts 16 shows how faithful obedience can lead not to comfort, but to opposition, and how worship in the darkest moments becomes a powerful witness. What looks like interruption or failure may actually be God advancing His mission in unseen ways. When we stop trying to write the story ourselves and trust Jesus instead, God begins to redeem our suffering and transform lives for His glory.

“Not by Strategy, but by the Lord” [Acts 16:11-15]

Sometimes the greatest moves of God happen far from where we expected. Paul went to Philippi not because it made strategic sense, but because the Spirit redirected him there. No synagogue, no crowds, just a quiet riverside gathering and one attentive woman named Lydia. Yet in that humble setting, God opened a heart, birthed new faith, and sparked gospel work that would influence an entire region. Lydia’s story reminds us that God often moves in still places and simple moments, and our role is simply to go, speak, and obey when He opens the door.

"Detours That Define The Mission" [Acts 16:1-10]

The sermon explored Acts 16:1-10, where Paul's missionary journey takes surprising turns as the Holy Spirit closes doors to Asia and Bithynia, ultimately redirecting the team to Macedonia. This passage challenges us to hold our strategies loosely while holding the gospel firmly, reminding us that God's guidance often comes through closed doors, not just open ones. The implications for our spiritual life are profound: we must learn to discern between our comfortable routines and God's active leading, trusting that divine detours are not obstacles but invitations to participate in something greater than our own plans.<...

“Disagreement Doesn’t Stop the Mission” [Acts 15:36-41]

The sermon explored Acts 15:36-41, where Paul and Barnabas disagreed over whether to bring John Mark on their second missionary journey. This conflict resulted in their partnership splitting into two separate teams. Through this passage and examples like Adoniram Judson's denominational change and the Moravian missionary movement, we saw that even when believers disagree, God keeps His mission moving. The disagreement didn't derail God's calling, stop the gospel, or limit His work. Instead, what looked like a setback became multiplication as one missionary team became two, strengthening churches across different regions.Takeaways:•Ou...

"No Strings Attached" [Acts 15:1-35]

The sermon explored Acts 15:1-35, where the Jerusalem Council addressed a critical question: Does God's grace require our additions? Some were teaching that faith in Jesus wasn't enough—that Gentile believers needed to follow Jewish ceremonial law to be truly saved. The apostles and elders gathered to settle this dispute, and their conclusion was clear: salvation moves us away from what we do and back to what God has done in Jesus. This passage reminds us that when the enemy whispers, "You didn't do enough," the gospel shouts back, "Christ has done everything." The implications for our spiritual life ar...

"How Churches Get Strong" [Acts 14:21-28]

This sermon explores Acts 14:21-28, revealing the circular movement of faithful ministry that strengthens churches: proclaiming Christ, discipling people, raising leaders, and celebrating what God has done. Rather than simply planting churches and moving on, Paul and Barnabas retraced their steps to ensure these new believers were rooted, growing, and equipped to continue. This passage challenges us to see that healthy church life is not about programs or activities, but about a continuous cycle of gospel proclamation, intentional discipleship, leadership development, and worshipful celebration of God's work. The implications for our spiritual life are profound: we must never outgrow...

"The Gospel in a Whirlwind" [Acts 14:1-20]

"The Rhythm of Gospel Movement" [Acts 13:13-52]

In "A Rhythm of Gospel Movement," based on Acts 13:13-52, the sermon explores how Paul and Barnabas exemplify the progression of the gospel message as they move beyond familiar territories into new challenges. It highlights four rhythms of gospel movement: being moved outward from comfort, learning to listen before speaking, gaining boldness through the gospel's victory, and being freed from the fear of rejection. The message encourages believers to embrace these rhythms in their own lives, stepping beyond comfort zones, building trust through listening, speaking boldly of Christ’s victory, and leaving outcomes to God. Ultimately, it calls the co...

"When Earth Pushes Back, Heaven Pushes Forward" [Acts 12]

“What It Means to be Called ‘Christian’” [Acts 11:19-30]

When persecution scattered the early believers, God used it to plant seeds in new soil. In Acts 11:19–30, ordinary Christians took extraordinary steps—sharing the gospel beyond their comfort zones, forming the first multicultural church, and giving generously to those in need. This passage reminds us that when God’s people take His grace beyond familiar boundaries, He builds a church that is unified, generous, and known by Christ’s name.

"The Day the Church Said Yes" [Acts 11:1-18]

In this message Pastor Brian (of FBC Byram) explores the pivotal moment recorded in Acts 11:1-18 when the early church said “yes” to God’s inclusive, grace-filled mission for all peoples. We’ll look at how the Jerusalem believers responded to the gentile mission, how fear & tradition were confronted by the Spirit, and what it means today for us…especially as a church with many seasoned saints and young families alike.

"God's Way is Always Best" [Psalm 37:1-11]

In this message, we're reminded that God's way is always best. The sermon explores three key concepts: relinquish, reliance, and reward. We're called to abandon our own ways and commit ourselves fully to the Lord, trusting Him completely with our lives. The Psalmist's words in Psalm 37 encourage us to delight in the Lord and commit our way to Him. This act of faith leads to beautiful rewards - our righteousness shining like the dawn and the justice of our cause like the noonday sun. As we reflect on this, we're challenged to consider: Are we truly relinquishing control to...

“The Gospel That Brings Life to a City” [Acts 9:32-43]

Pastor Brian focuses on Acts 9:32-43, where Peter heals Aeneas and raises Dorcas, leading to widespread faith. Brian emphasizes the power of small acts of obedience which can have significant community impact. He encourages the congregation to see their daily acts of kindness and obedience as part of God's plan to transform their city, likening it to the butterfly effect and the ripple of faith seen in biblical figures like Elijah and Elisha.

"From Persecutor to Preacher" [Part 3]

Pastor Brian explores how the church advances when believers welcome one another as true teammates in Christ. Brian highlights how former rivals can become trusted teammates once they are embraced and given a chance to contribute. Acts 9:26–31 shows how Barnabas vouched for Saul, leading the disciples to accept him as a brother despite his past. That welcome not only affirmed Saul’s conversion but also strengthened the church’s mission and unity. The message challenges us to extend the same grace today, especially toward new believers and those with difficult pasts, so that the gospel can flourish through our shared...

"From Persecutor to Preacher" (Part 2) [Acts 9:19b-35]

Pastor Brian preached on Acts 9:19b-25, focusing on Saul's transformation from persecutor to preacher. He highlighted Saul's immediate proclamation of Jesus as the Son of God in Damascus, despite initial skepticism by others. Brian emphasized the suddenness and genuineness of Saul's conversion and his new mission to preach the gospel. He drew parallels to contemporary figures like Charlie Kirk, illustrating how personal transformation can lead to bold witness. Brian also discussed the importance of discipleship, using Saul's time in Arabia to underscore the need for continuous spiritual growth and community support.

"From Persecutor to Preacher"

Pastor Brian discusses the transformation of Saul into Paul, emphasizing the power of Jesus to change the hearts of even the fiercest sinners. He recounts Saul's persecution of Christians, his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, and his subsequent conversion. Brian highlights Saul's background as a Pharisee and his role in the stoning of Stephen. He describes Saul's temporary blindness and Ananias' reluctance to heal him due to Saul's past actions. Despite this, Ananias obeys the Lord's command, leading to Saul's regeneration and eventual ministry. Brian concludes by encouraging listeners to accept Jesus's forgiveness and transformation.

"From Question to Conversion" [Acts 8:26-40]

Pastor Brian discusses the spread of Christianity from Jerusalem to Samaria and the Ethiopian eunuch, emphasizing the gospel's inclusivity. He explains the historical and cultural significance of eunuchs in royal courts and highlights the Ethiopian eunuch's conversion. Brian uses the story to illustrate how the gospel transcends ethnic, cultural, and social barriers. He recounts Philip's obedience to the Lord's command, leading to the eunuch's baptism. Brian encourages believers to be prepared to share their faith and to see evangelism as Spirit-led, emphasizing the joy and inclusivity of salvation.

"What Money Can't Buy" [Acts 8:9-25]

Brian Rhodus discussed Albert Edward Towleton, who counterfeited $7 million in 2008 using an inkjet printer and special paper. He highlighted the US government's efforts to combat counterfeit currency. Brian then drew parallels to spiritual counterfeits in Christianity, citing Simon the Sorcerer in Acts 8, who sought to buy the power to give the Holy Spirit. Peter condemned Simon's greed and called for repentance. Brian emphasized that true faith cannot be bought and that genuine conversion is essential. He concluded by urging the congregation to examine their faith sincerity.

"The Gospel Can't Be Quarantined" [Acts 8:1-4]

Pastor Brian discusses the resilience of the gospel in the face of persecution, using historical examples like the spread of Christianity in China and Eastern Europe during the Cold War. He highlights Acts 8:1-4, where persecution in Jerusalem led to the gospel spreading to Judea and Samaria. Brian encourages faithfulness in sharing the gospel, regardless of circumstances, and notes that even the fiercest opponents of the church, like Saul, can become its greatest missionaries. He concludes by urging the congregation to be consistent in their witness and to trust God for the spread of the gospel.

“A Standing Ovation from the Savior” [Acts 7:54-60]

Brian Rhodus delivers a sermon on Acts 7:54-60, focusing on Stephen's final moments before his stoning. He highlights Stephen's unwavering faith, his vision of Jesus at God's right hand, and his prayer for his killers' forgiveness. Rhodus draws parallels to recent tragedies, such as the massacre in the Dominican Republic, emphasizing the importance of keeping faith in Jesus amidst suffering. He encourages believers to fix their eyes on Jesus, pray for their persecutors, and entrust their lives to Christ. Rhodus concludes by stressing that true commitment to Christ is about faithfulness, not comfort, and calls for renewed dedication to...

"Truth that Confronts" (Part 3) [Acts 7:44-53]

Brian Rhodus discusses Acts 7:44-53, where Stephen addresses the Sanhedrin, accusing them of resisting the Holy Spirit and focusing on rituals over relationship with God. He contrasts the physical temple with the heart, emphasizing that God's presence is not confined to buildings. Rhodus uses the example of John Newton, who transformed from a blasphemer to a preacher, to illustrate that even the hardest hearts can change. He warns against spiritual complacency and the danger of honoring traditions over obedience to God. Rhodus urges believers to let the Bible shape their hearts and lives, not just read it.

[Part 1] "Truth That Confronts" [Acts 7:1-16]

Brian discusses Acts 7:1-16, focusing on Stephen's defense before the Sanhedrin. Stephen recounts Israel's history, emphasizing God's faithfulness despite disobedience. He highlights Abraham's promise of land and descendants, Joseph's rise in Egypt, and the covenant of circumcision. Brian draws parallels to modern challenges, urging trust in God's promises even when fulfillment seems distant. He stresses that God's plan involves unexpected detours and is active in all places, encouraging believers to remain faithful despite hardships. The sermon concludes with a call to trust Jesus as savior for peace and support.

“More Than A Servant” [Acts 6:8-15]

Brian Rhodus emphasized the importance of faithfulness in small tasks, using the story of Stephen from Acts 6:8-15 as an example. He recounted the tale of Frank, a janitor who maintained a strong Christian faith and positively impacted his hospital community. Brian highlighted that even seemingly insignificant roles, like sweeping floors or teaching Sunday school, are sacred when performed with dedication and integrity. He encouraged the congregation to view all tasks as opportunities to serve God, noting that heaven recognizes and rewards such faithfulness, which can lead to a greater witness for the gospel.

"Called to Serve" [Acts 6:1-7]

Brian Rhodus discussed the importance of ordinary people meeting extraordinary needs, using the story of a town's bridge repair and Acts 6:1-7 as analogies. He emphasized that growing churches face internal tensions, illustrated by the Hellenist and Hebrew factions in Acts. The apostles delegated responsibilities to seven men of good repute to focus on teaching and prayer, leading to church growth. Rhodus highlighted the need for delegation, empowerment, and unity, noting that the early church's approach of appointing culturally aligned leaders addressed internal divisions and fostered growth. He called for church members to actively serve, ensuring the church's continued...

“Unshaken & Unashamed” [Acts 5:27-42]

Brian discusses the unwavering commitment of early apostles to gospel proclamation, despite persecution. He references Acts 5, highlighting Peter's defiance of the high priest's orders and the council's attempts to suppress their message. Brian emphasizes the importance of uncompromising obedience to God, bold gospel proclamation, and not fighting God's purposes. He notes the apostles' joy in suffering for their faith and their daily perseverance in teaching and preaching. Rhodus encourages the church to focus on gospel proclamation, citing Vacation Bible School as a significant evangelistic opportunity, and to maintain joy and faithfulness in their mission.

"Unstoppable" [Acts 5:17-26]

Brian Rhodus emphasized the unstoppable nature of the gospel and the church's role in preaching it, referencing Acts 5:17-26. He highlighted the apostles' unwavering faith and obedience, despite being arrested by the Sadducees. An angel freed them, commanding them to teach in the temple. Rhodus underscored the importance of sharing faith despite personal trials and the church's 201-year history of preaching the gospel globally. He encouraged the congregation to participate in upcoming outreach efforts, including Vacation Bible School, and to recognize God's work and their role in it.

“Serving God to the End” [1 Peter 4:1-11]

Trey emphasizes the importance of serving God to the end. The sermon focused on First Peter 4:1-11, urging believers to live according to God's will, standards, and mercy. Trey highlighted the need for repentance, prayer, and deep love for others. He recounted the inspiring story of William McPherson, who read the Bible with his tongue despite losing his eyes and hands, to illustrate the commitment required to serve God fully.

"A Church the World Can't Ignore" [Acts 5:12-16]

Brian emphasized the importance of a church that the world cannot ignore, drawing from Acts 5:12-16. He highlighted the early church's unity, purity, and power, which attracted people despite fear and opposition. Brian compared the church to a symphony orchestra, stressing the need for unity under Christ's leadership. He noted that the church's witness spread beyond Jerusalem, and people brought the sick for healing. Rhodus concluded that God's power is displayed through set-apart people, urging the church to maintain purity, love, and unity to attract seekers and reflect God's presence.

"Playing Church" [Acts 5:1-11]

Brian Rhodus discusses the importance of genuine commitment to the Lord, contrasting it with the "look at me" mentality exemplified by Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11. Ananias and Sapphira, seeking reputation, kept part of the proceeds from selling property and lied about it. Peter's confrontation led to their deaths, highlighting the seriousness of deceit. Rhodus emphasizes that true generosity is sincere, not showy, and that integrity is crucial for the church's reputation and the community's respect. He urges the congregation to honor God with their actions and commitments.