Sermon Notes - 2024
Emmanuel: God of Glory and Grace Forever
Emmanuel: God of Glory and Grace Forever
I. God with us; His presence is eternal for His family.
II. Glory to God in the highest; His praise is eternal by His family.
III. God is gracious; His poured out love is eternal with His family.
Sermon preached on 12/29/24 PM by Pastor Tim Allen
THE NIGHT THAT CHANGED THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD
“THE NIGHT THAT CHANGED THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD”
(A CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE MEDITATION”
INTRO: The purpose of our service tonight is to focus on what God did for us through the incarnation of the Lord Jesus Christ. All of the congregational hymns, special music and scripture reading was designed and appropriately placed to draw attention to and exalt God for what He did for the human race through Christ’s birth. The theme of our evening has been “THE NIGHT THAT CHANGED THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD” for truly when Christ was born the course of history in the world was changed. Think of it for a bit…WITHOUT THE INCARNATION OF CHRIST THERE WOULD BE NO HISTORY OF THE CRUCIFIXION OF CHRIST ON THE CROSS, NO HISTROY OF THE BIRTH OF THE CHURCH, NO HISTORY OF WORLD-WIDE MISSIONS, NO HISTORY OF GREAT AWAKENINGS AND REVIVALS, NO HISTORY OF AMERICA BECOMING A NATION BASED UPON BIBLICAL CHRIST-LIKE PRINCIPLES. TRULY THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST CHANGED THE PROGRESSIVE HISTORY OF THE WORLD.
Sermon preached on 12/24/24 PM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE TESTAMENT OF CHRIST’S PRESENTATIONS
CHRISTMAS SERIES
“THE UNFOLDING TESTAMENT OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST”
PART FOUR
“THE TESTAMENT OF CHRIST’S PRESENTATIONS”
LUKE 2:21-39
INTRO: Over the past three weeks we have been involved in a CHRISTMAS SERIES entitled “THE UNFOLDING TESTAMENT OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST.” The purpose of the series has been to lay the biblical foundation of the incarnation of our Lord by studying a familiar passage of scripture concerning Christ’s birth, Luke chapter 2. Theoretically, we are very familiar with this chapter, but practically I believe there are many “golden nuggets” within the text that we often overlook and thus we miss out on a lot of truth concerning Christ’s birth. It has been the purpose of this study to bring out some of those “golden nuggets.” Today we will conclude the series by observing “THE TESTAMENT OF CHRIST’S PRESENTATIONS,” and will note from Luke 2:21-39 the three times Christ was presented after His birth and what each presentation reveals about our Lord and how we should respond.
Sermon preached on 12/22/24 PM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE TESTAMENT OF THE SHEPHERDS
CHRISTMAS SERIES
“THE UNFOLDING TESTAMENT OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST”
PART THREE
“THE TESTAMENT OF THE SHEPHERDS”
LUKE 2:8-20
INTRO: In reading the Word of God it is significant for us to acknowledge that every account, every illustration,
every sentence, and every word is in the scripture for a purpose. Everything we read in the Bible is there to either
show the expectation and the work of God or to teach us how to live to honor God. The same is with the account
of the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Even though we are familiar with the presence of the angels, the shepherds
and the other characters surrounding the birth of Christ, we often fail to see or understand the spiritual relevance
of them in the purpose of God. We read and sing about the various characters, but we often overlook why they
are included in the tapestry of the unfolding of Christ’s birth. Last week in our Christmas series we studied the
significance of the Angels in announcing Christ’s birth. Today we shall look at the role of the shepherds played in
our Lord’s incarnation. The spiritual lessons that are connected with the shepherds are to be learned and applied
to the overall ministry of Christ which we will attempt to reveal today.
Sermon preached on 12/15/24 PM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE TESTAMENT OF THE HEAVENLY HOSTS
CHRISTMAS SERIES
“THE UNFOLDING TESTAMENT OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST”
PART TWO
“THE TESTAMENT OF THE HEAVENLY HOSTS”
LUKE 2:8-14
INTRO: For most Christians, the narrative of the birth of Jesus Christ as revealed in the scriptures is
a precious text that never tires. We love to read it, we love to hear it read, we love to sing the songs
regarding the birth of Christ, and we even like to share the message of the birth of Christ with others.
But unfortunately, we have become so familiar with the scriptural teaching about the birth of Christ
that we either overlook or forget some of the significant details which reveal the Divine depths of the
incarnation. Thus, in our Christmas Series we are taking time to study a very familiar text of the Word
of God so as to look into some of the finer specifics of the account of Christ’s birth that we may have
overlooked or have forgotten. The text is Luke chapter 2, and the series title is: “THE UNFOLDING
TESTAMENT OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST.” Last week we studied verses 1-7 of Luke 2 and noted
“THE TESTAMENT OF THE LORD’S BIRTH.” Today for a few minutes we are going to observe Luke 2:8
14 and study “THE TESTAMENT OF THE HEAVENLY HOSTS.” Let’s approach this text like we have
never read it before and allow the Holy Spirit to reveal to us some precious golden nuggets
about the ministry of the Heavenly Hosts to the Shepherds on the night that Christ was born
which will give us a greater appreciation of what God the Father did through God the Son in His
incarnation.
Sermon preached on 12/8/24 PM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE TESTAMENT OF THE LORD’S BIRTH
INTRO: During the Christmas Season, those of us who are believers in Jesus Christ will spend a lot of time around
the church singing Christmas Carols and reading scriptures about the His Birth, which is good. But in doing so, we
often become very familiar with the songs and the scriptures that we overlook some of the fine details of the
narrative of Christ’s birth, to the point that we miss out on a blessing and perhaps will even miss out on honoring
God as we should. So today we are going to begin a 4-part Christmas series that will be filled with a lot of familiar
verses of scripture about the birth of Jesus Christ so that we can rehearse and review in our spiritual thinking the
facts that changed the everlasting history of the universe from the divine perspective. The series title is: “THE
UNFOLDING TESTAMENT OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST.” This series will basically be a study of the second
chapter of the Gospel of Luke. Today we are going to begin by noting “THE TESTAMENT OF THE LORD’S BIRTH.”
NOTE: In Luke chapter 2, we have the record of the time of the birth of Jesus Christ until he was presented in the
temple at the Passover at the age of 12. There is a lot we can learn about Christ in this chapter of God’s Word.
Sermon preached on 12/1/24 PM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE OUTWORKING OF GOD’S GRACE IN OUR LIVES
“THE OUTWORKING OF GOD’S GRACE IN OUR LIVES”
TITUS 2:11-15
INTRO: As Christians so often we speak of God’s GRACE and sing of God’s GRACE, but it is probable that we do not really COMPREHEND GOD’S GRACE as we should. In fact, Ephesians 2:7 indicates that throughout THE AGES TO COME we will be learning of the GRACE OF GOD. Titus 2:11-15 is a short text that gives us a LOT OF INFORMATION about the GRACE OF GOD that is necessary to study and refreshing to learn. So, let’s take a look at it in our lesson.
Sermon preached on 11/10/24 PM by Pastor Gary Dull
“THE REALITY OF REVIVAL”
PSALM 85:1-13
INTRO: REVIVAL is a term that is known to most of us who have been associated with a Bible-believing and preaching church for any period of time. For those who have studied church history, they know that at certain times God has sent great REVIVALS that turned large segments of whole nations around. In the United States, many are familiar with the revival called THE GREAT AWAKENING that took place under the preaching of William Tennet, Gilbert Tennet, Jonathan Edwards, and George Whitefield between 1740 and 1742. The preaching of THE GREAT AWAKENING emphasized the essential reality of biblical doctrine, and it is estimated that out of the total of 3 million people who lived in the American colonies at that time, over 250,000 people, including some preachers, were converted to Christ. In fact, in some communities, over 20% of the population were converted to Christ. In addition, many more were challenged to new dedication and service unto the Lord in personal revival. Because many people were converted to Christ and Christians got spiritually revived God wrought great spiritual things:
Sermon preached on 10/27/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
Part #2 preached on 11/3/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
Part #3 preached on 11/10/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE BIBLICAL APPROACH TO VOTING
“THE BIBLICAL APPROACH TO VOTING”
(AN ELECTION DAY SERMON)
1 PETER 2:9-15
INTRO: Coming up in just a little over two weeks, we in America will have another opportunity to vote for the next President of the USA. By way of application from the text we have just read, CHRISTIANS HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY BEFORE GOD TO VOTE and yet in recent elections only one out of every five professed Christians were registered and only two out of every five professed Christians voted. When our text says in verse 13 “SUBMIT YOURSELVES TO EVERY ORDINANCE OF MAN FOR THE LORD’S SAKE,” and verse 15 which says, “FOR SO IS THE WILL OF GOD, THAT WITH WELL DOING YE MAY PUT TO SILENCE THE IGNORANCE OF FOOLISH MEN,” we must observe that according to the “ORDINANCE OF MAN,” which is a reference to the US CONSTITUTION, that has given us the right to vote, ALL OF US AS CHRISTIANS MUST VOTE AND VOTE BIBLICALLY IN ORDER TO OBEY GOD AND TO SILENCE THOSE “FOOLISH ONES” WHO DO NOT KNOW BIBLICAL TRUTH!
Sermon preached on 10/20/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE SACRED SECRET OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST
INTRO: It is very significant that every born-again believer has a BIBLICAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST if they want to honor God in effective service and worship. THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST IS HIS REDEMPTIVE REPRESENTATIVE ON EARTH which is revealed through the ministry of the LOCAL CHURCH AND THE INDIVIDUAL CHRISTIAN. To enable us to understand the CHURCH more thoroughly, in our last study we noted “THE PROSPECT OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST.” Today as we continue in our series, we shall study “THE SACRED SECRET OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST.” What am I talking about and why do I use the words “SACRED SECRET?” Well, a study of Ephesians 3 today will enable you to understand why those terms are used and why they MUST BE UNDERSTOOD BY ALL BORN AGAIN CHRISTIANS.
Sermon preached on 9/29/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE PROSPECT OF THE CHURCH OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST
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“THE PROSPECT OF THE CHURCH OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST”
MATTHEW 16:13-20INTRO: As BORN-AGAIN BELIEVERS IN JESUS CHRIST we belong to an entity that nothing else in the whole universe can compare. Down through the years it has often been, and still is, misunderstood, neglected, disrespected, embattled, forsaken, criticized, judged, maligned, and deserted, not just by those who do not know Christ, but even by SOME BORN AGAIN BELIEVERS. What entity am I speaking of? THE CHURCH OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! In the scripture, the CHURCH is referred, among other things as: 1) The Body of Christ (Ephesians 1:23), 2) The Building of Christ (Ephesians 2:21,22), 3) The Bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:22-33), 4) The Church of God (1 Corinthians 1:2); 5) The House of God (1 Timothy 3:15a); 6) The Pillar and the Ground of the Truth (1 Timothy 3:15b), and the 7) Mystery of God (Ephesians 3:1-21). The very moment one receives Christ as Personal Savior, he or she is placed by the Holy Spirit into the BODY OF CHRIST, which is THE CHURCH (1 Corinthians 12:13).
Sermon preached on 9/15/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
Part #2 preached on 9/22/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
“GROWING IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF CHRIST”
2 PETER 2:18
INTRO: Recently we began a series entitled “AN ADMONITION FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH” taken from 2 Peter 3:17,18. Scripturally speaking, this admonition is given to us through the Apostle Peter so as to keep us from getting lured away into false doctrine, in general, and into the misunderstanding of the second coming of Christ specifically. In previous studies, we noted the significance in growing in the understanding of the GRACE OF GOD. As you may recall, we focused on THE SAVING GRACE, THE SUSTAINING GRACE, AND THE SERVING GRACE OF GOD. Today we are going to conclude our study by focusing on GROWING IN THE KNOWELDGE OF JESUS CHRIST.
OBSERVATION: It is a blessing of the highest degree to see a lost sinner come to faith in Jesus Christ and, therefore, be BORN AGAIN. However, it is sad and even a shame to see a Christian who does not grow spiritually.
Sermon preached on 9/8/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE THEOLOGY OF WORK AND LABOR
“THE THEOLOGY OF WORK AND LABOR”
INTRO: We are currently in the midst of the LABOR DAY WEEKEND here in the United States, which is often referred to as the last holiday of the summer season. During this time, many people go away for one last summer retreat or have picnics with family and friends before school gets into full operation and the fall season approaches. According to an entity called “HISTORY.COM,” the history of LABOR DAY is as follows: (Read the given history).
WORK AND LABOR are concepts that are clearly grounded in the Word of God and should be thus examined according to scriptural teachings. Therefore, today I want to speak for a few minutes on “THE THEOLOGY OF WORK AND LABOR.”
Sermon preached on 9/1/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
FOUR GREAT AND SERIOUS EVENTS TO CONSIDER
“FOUR GREAT AND SERIOUS EVENTS TO CONSIDER”
HEBREWS 9:27,28
INTRO: Life is filled with all sorts of events. Some events are pleasurable, and some events are not so pleasurable. Some events are planned, and some events are not planned. Some events can be canceled, and some events cannot be canceled. There are four GREAT AND SERIOUS EVENTS spoken of in the passage of scripture before us that we should each consider today and respond to them properly as each one deals with our present relationship with God that has an eternal effect.
Sermon preached on 8/11/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
UNDERSTANDING GOD’S SERVING GRACE
“UNDERSTANDING GOD’S SERVING GRACE”
ROMANS 12:1-8
INTRO: Over the past several weeks we have been involved in a study entitled: “AN ADMONITION ON SPIRITUAL GROWTH,” taken from 2 Peter 3:17,18. In this text, through the Apostle Peter, the Holy Spirit is calling upon all true born again believers to GROW IN UNDERSTANDING THE GRACE AND KNOWLEDGE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. The fact is, from the time of our salvation until we see the Lord it is the will of God that we continually endeavor to learn more about God’s Grace and about the person of the Lord Jesus Christ so that we will effectively glorify God in our praise, worship, and service. It is significant to note that the word “GROW” in 2 Peter 3:18 means “TO ENLARGE AND INCREASE” meaning that it is God’s desire that we MAKE A SPIRIT LED EFFORT TO ENLARGE AND INCREASE IN OUR UNDERSTANDING OF GOD’S GRACE AND HIS SON JESUS CHRIST. This is to be a LIFE-LONG ENDEAVOR on Earth and will be an ETERNAL EXPERIENCE in Heaven. Such an endeavor is completed through our continual commitment to the study and application of the Word of God. THIS MAY BE ONE OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT STUDIES WE HAVE EVER CONDUCTED AS IT LAYS THE FOUNDATION FOR US TO LIVE A GOD-HONORING LIFE…THEREFORE, DO NOT NEGLECT OR DENY THIS STUDY.
Sermon preached on 6/30/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
UNDERSTANDING GOD’S SUSTAINING GRACE
“UNDERSTANDING GOD’S SUSTAINING GRACE”
2 CORINTHIANS 12:1-10
NOTE: Recently we began a series entitled “AN ADMONITION FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH” taken from 2 Peter 3:17,18. Those two verses are located at the end of a chapter where the Holy Spirit led the Apostle Peter to correct errors that some were teaching about the return of Christ. Thus, in order for believers to be correct on all things regarding the return of Christ, the Holy Spirit, through Peter gives us TWO ADMONITIONS to apply:
● AN ADMONITION TO GROW IN THE GRACE OF CHRIST – 18A.
● AN ADMONITION TO GROW IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF CHRIST – 18B.
During our last study we focused on GROWING IN OUR UNDERSTANDING OF GOD’S SAVING GRACE and today we want to continue by studying about GROWING IN OUR UNDERSTANDING OF GOD’S SUSTAINING GRACE.
Sermon preached on 6/23/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE TESTIMONY OF A MAN OF GOD
“THE TESTIMONY OF A MAN OF GOD”
2 TIMOTHY 4:6-8
INTRO: I am very thankful for the MEN OF GOD who have been a part of my life through which I have learned so much about Christian living. For Instance:
-In my Family:
-Poppa Mike (Mom’s Dad) = Missionary to Hawaii, Salvation Army, Pastor
-Pawpaw Lester (Dad’s Dad) = Lifelong Deacon
-Dad = A Dedicated Christian and True Churchman
-Outside my Family:
-George Marstellar = Pastor who encouraged me to go into the ministry
-Phillip Horne = Pastor who discipled me in ministry
-George Miles = WBC President who taught me much about ministry
-Carlton Helgerson = Pastor who mentored me in ministry
-Paul Van Gorder = Encouraged me to begin WOTM
A true man of God can be used of God in the lives of others in so many ways. WHAT ABOUT YOU? CAN YOU NAME A MAN OF GOD WHO HAS IMPACTED YOU FOR CHRIST? Since it is Father’s Day, let me address the men in our congregation today. AS A MAN, ARE YOU INFLUENCING OTHERS FOR CHRIST?
Sermon preached on 6/16/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
AN ADMONITION FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH
“AN ADMONITION FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH”
2 PETER 3:17,18
INTRO: Down through the course of the church age there have been those who have either falsely predicted the date of Christ’s return or have scoffed at it denying that He will fulfill the promise of His return. The third chapter of 2 Peter addresses both of those issues clearly as is brought out in verses 8-12. But as we read down to the last two verses of the chapter, we see AN ADMONITION FOR EACH CHRISTIAN TO CONSIDER that is essential for being prepared for victorious living in light of the return of Jesus Christ. THE ADMONITION IS THAT TRUE CHRISTIANS ARE TO GROW IN THE GRACE AND THE KNOWLEDGE OF JESUS CHRIST. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN AND HOW ARE WE TO DO IT? THIS WILL BE OUR STUDY TODAY.
NOTE: The word “GROW” is the Greek word “AUXANO” which means “TO GROW UP, TO ENLARGE AND TO INCREASE.” Thus, every Child of God is to consistently focus on GROWING UP, ENLARGING, AND INCREASING IN OUR UNDERSTANDING OF GOD’S GRACE AND THE LORD JESUS CHRIST. THIS IS GOD’S EXPECTATION FOR EVERY TRUE CHILD OF GOD – YOU AND ME!
Sermon preached on 6/9/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
A GRAND REMEMBERING
“A GRAND REMEMBERING”
HEBREWS 12:1-4
INTRO: During the MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND, we Americans have the honor of remembering those who have given their lives for the freedoms we hold dear in our nation. Some statistics:
● 1,282,205 vets have died in war since 1775.
● 624,000 vets die annually from natural causes.
● 649 Gold Star families in Blair County, PA.
Certainly, all VETS deserve our RESPECT, but those VETS who have given their lives for our freedom deserve our GREATEST HONOR…WHICH WE RENDER THIS WEEKEND. But as we remember those who have given their lives for our freedom in America, it is also appropriate to remember the FAITHFUL SAINTS OF GOD, who lived and even died for their faith down through the ages. In addition, it is also VERY APPROPRIATE for us to remember the great work of Jesus Christ on our behalf. So, in today’s message I want to speak on a GRAND REMEMBERING as we focus on those faithful saints who have gone on before us as well as the wonderful work of our BLESSED SAVIOR and His work on our behalf.
Sermon preached on 5/26/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
WHAT MANNER OF LOVE GOD HAS FOR US
“WHAT MANNER OF LOVE GOD HAS FOR US”
1 JOHN 3:1
INTRO: “LOVE” is a word we are all familiar with that we hear or use frequently in our conversations. But even though we are familiar with the word “LOVE,” we must recognize that there are different types of “LOVE”. For instance, the “LOVE” we have for our parents, our spouse, our dog, our cat, our home, our car, etc., all have different applications. Even the scripture speaks of different types of “LOVE”. There is AGAPE = SACRIFICAL LOVE; PHILEO = BROTHERLY LOVE. Then there is another Greek word for “LOVE” that is not found in the Bible which is EROS = PHYSICAL LOVE BETWEEN A HUSBAND AND A WIFE. But the passage we have before us in 1 John 3:1 expresses God’s “LOVE” for us that is beyond comprehension. Yes, it is the Greek word AGAPE, (SACRIFICAL LOVE), but in the verse there is another qualifying word, which is the word “MANNER” that adds a greater dimension to God’s LOVE FOR US. So today we are going to study “WHAT MANNER OF LOVE GOD HAS FOR US.” TRULY GOD’S LOVE FOR US IS AMAZING AND BEYOND OUR GREATEST COMPREHENSION that we will focus on today.
Sermon preached on 5/19/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
REMEMBER THE JEWISH PEOPLE AND THE NATION OF ISRAEL
There is a great rise in ANTI-SEMITISM today. But ALL TRUE CHRISTIANS will love and support the Jewish People and the Nation of Israel based upon the BIBLICAL WORLD VIEW.
Sermon preached on 5/12/24 PM by Pastor Gary Dull
Part #2 preached on 5/19/24 PM by Pastor Gary Dull
A WOMAN OF GREAT PRICE
“A WOMAN OF GREAT PRICE”
PROVERBS 31:10-31
INTRO: If you were to list the names of FIVE WOMEN in the Bible of GREAT VALUE AND VIRTUE, who would they be? I would list at least the following:
● Mary the Mother of Jesus because of her Submission to God.
● Jochebed the Mother of Moses for her Motherly love and care.
● Ruth for her Faithfulness to Naomi and God.
● Esther for her Self-denial and Courage.
● Mary of Bethany who had Great respect for Jesus Christ.
Sermon preached on 5/12/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST
“AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST”
2 CORINTHIANS 5:14-21
INTRO: The first time I met an ambassador was around 1967 when I was working at a place called
THE CABIN FARMS out in Fayette County. Since then, I have had the opportunity to meet and have
discussions with several ambassadors, which has always interested me. But the Bible teaches that
EVERY CHRISTIAN IS AN AMBASSADOR FOR CHRIST WHICH MEANS WE HAVE A GREAT
RESPONSIBILITY TO FULFILL FOR AS LONG AS WE LIVE. Today we shall briefly look at that
responsibility which I pray will lead us to be ALL GOD WANTS US TO BE AS HIS CHILDREN IN THIS
SPIRITUALLY DARK WORLD
Sermon preached on 5/5/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
RETURN TO YOUR FIRST LOVE
“RETURN TO GOD-HIS WORD, HIS WILL AND HIS WAY”
“RETURN TO YOUR FIRST LOVE”
REVELATION 2:1-7
INTRO: Generally speaking, after one comes to Christ, there is great love for the Lord because of the salvation He has given which results in a great desire to serve Him. But what often happens is that after one has been saved for a while, he/she will fall away from their love for the Lord and become spiritually stale. Often when that happens, one even loses his/her testimony and is rendered “IN-OPERATIVE” by the Lord. This can also happen with LOCAL CHURCHES. When that condition arises, the remedy is to REMEMBER WHERE THE DEPARTURE FROM LOVING THE LORD OCCURRED, REPENT FOR SUCH DEPARTURE AND GET BACK TO LOVING THE LORD. That was the situation with the CHURCH OF EPHESUS and could be the case with some of us today. So, today we are going to focus on “RETURNING TO YOUR FIRST LOVE.”
Sermon preached on 4/21/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
THE REALITY OF THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST
“THE REALITY OF THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST”
MATTHEW 28:1-10; 1 CORINTHIANS 15:1-8; ACTS 1:1-9; ROMANS 4:25-5:1
INTRO: This morning, we gather together to commemorate the MOST IMPORTANT DAY AND EVENT OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH -THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST FROM THE DEAD! Coupled with the work of Christ on the Cross, WHEN HE DIED TO PAY THE PRICE FOR THE SINS OF THE WHOLE WORLD, THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST COMPLETES HIS REDEMPTIVE WORK FOR MANKIND AS HE ROSE AGAIN FROM THE DEAD TO PROVIDE ETERNAL LIFE FOR ALL WHO WILL TRUST HIM AS THEIR PERSONAL SAVIOR. BOTH the CRUCIFIXION and the RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST are essential for our eternal salvation – which should compel us on GOOD FRIDAY and RESURRECTION SUNDAY to pause, reflect upon, worship and thank God for what He did for us through JESUS CHRIST! Not to do so would be an act of the HIGHEST DISHONOR TO OUR WONDERFUL LORD! So, today, let us consider for a few moments the REALITY OF THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST AND DETERMINE TO HONOR HIM FOR HIS GREAT WORK OF REDEMPTION FOR US ALL.
Sermon preached on 3/31/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
RETURN TO GOD – HIS WORD, HIS WILL AND HIS WAY IN THE CHURCH
“RETURN TO GOD – HIS WORD, HIS WILL AND HIS WAY IN THE CHURCH”
EPHESIANS 3:1-21
REVIEW: Over the last two weeks in our series “RETURN TO GOD – HIS WORD, HIS WILL AND HIS
WAY,” we noted the significance of the first two institutions of God that included THE FAMILY AND
THE CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Today, we are going to focus on third institution God brought into order,
and that is THE CHURCH. By way of review, please keep in the mind the following:
1) THE HOME is GOD’S FOUNDATIONAL INSTITUTION FOR THE FUNCTION AND THE STRENGTH
OF SOCIETY.
2) THE CIVIL GOVERNMENT is GOD’S FOUNDATIONAL INSTITUTION FOR CIVIL AUTHORITY.
3) THE CHURCH is GOD’S FOUNDATIONAL INSTITUTION FOR WISDOM AND TRUTH FOR
SOCIETY.
THE CHURCH
INTRO: WHAT IS THE CHURCH? To many outside of the church, it is that building down the street
where Christians meet for worship and various activities. But the church is MORE than a physical
building of brick and mortar. Unfortunately, there are many inside of the church who do not have a
clear understanding of what the church is in God’s Program. So today, for the sake of each of us and
to honor God, let’s take a brief look at the church as it is taught in the scriptures. This may be new to
some and may be a review to others. But it certainly will be a beneficial study for each of us today.
Sermon preached on 3/17/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
RETURN TO GOD’S WORD, WILL AND WAY IN THE GOVERNMENT
“RETURN TO GOD’S WORD, WILL AND WAY IN THE GOVERNMENT”
GENESIS 9:1-6; ROMANS 13:1-7;1 PETER 2:13,14
INTRO: Last week we studied the significance of the FIRST INSTITUTION of God, the FAMILY, RETURNING BACK TO HIM. Today, we will study the significance of God’s SECOND INSTITUTION, the CIVIL GOVERENMENT, RETURNING BACK TO HIM. And may it be noted, as in the FAMILY, if GOVERNMENT is to turn back to God, it will only begin when GOD’S PEOPLE ORDER CIVIL GOVERNMENT TO ADHERE TO BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES IN UNDERSTANDING AND PRACTICE ACCORDING TO HIS WILL. Today, let’s consider God’s Institution of CIVIL GOVERNMNT as taught in the WORD OF GOD.
NOTE: In America, we are blessed with the reality that OUR GOVERNMENT WAS ESTABLISHED ON BIBLICAL PRINCILES BY PEOPLE WHO HAD A RESPECT FOR GOD AND HIS WORD! THE PROBLEM TODAY IS that so many in recent generations of Americans, have chosen to neglect the biblical foundation of our American government and are taking it down a road of ANTI-GOD SECULARISM. (The Democrat Party removing God from its platform).
Sermon preached on 3/10/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
RETURN TO GOD’S WORD, WILL AND WAY IN THE FAMILY
“RETURN TO GOD’S WORD, WILL AND WAY IN THE FAMILY”
GENESIS 1:26-31; 2:16-25; 1 CORINTHIANS 11:1-3; EPHESIANS 5:21-33
INTRO: This year our church theme is “RETURN TO GOD – HIS WORD, HIS WILL AND HIS WAY.” Over the recent
weeks, in my Sunday morning messages, we have been studying the significance of RETURNING TO GOD on a
personal basis. As you will recall, we have presented the challenge to examine our lives daily, according to the Word
of God, through the aid of the Holy Spirit and then IDENTIFY where we have strayed from God, CONFESS the sins we
have committed, and REPENT from those sins knowing that for certain God will restore us into a proper fellowship
with Him. Today, as we progress in our study, we are going to begin to focus on how significant it is for the three
institutions of God, THE HOME, THE CIVIL GOVERNMENT, and THE CHURCH BE IN LINE WITH HIS WORD, HIS WILL,
AND HIS WAY. And since born-again Christians are to be involved in all three of God’s institutions, the responsibility
is on our shoulders to see that each functions according to God’s plan.
Sermon preached on 3/3/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
RETURN TO GOD FROM A HEART OF UNBELIEF
“RETURN TO GOD FROM A HEART OF UNBELIEF”
HEBREWS 3:1-19
INTRO: The challenge of our series, “RETURN TO GOD – HIS WORD, HIS WILL, HIS WAY,” has been that each of us who know Christ as our Personal Savior should examine our lives DAILY to be certain that we are living in obedience to God in all things. If we find that we have turned away from God in any area of our lives, we are challenged to do three things:
● IDENTIFY THE SIN OF VIOLATING GOD’S TRUTH IN OUR LIFE.
● CONFESS THE SIN OF VIOLATING GOD’S TRUTH IN OUR LIFE.
● REPENT FROM THE SIN OF VIOLATNG GOD’S TRUTH IN OUR LIFE.
HOW ARE YOU DOING?
Sermon preached on 2/24/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
RETURN UNTO ME AND I WILL RETURN UNTO YOU
“RETURN UNTO ME AND I WILL RETURN UNTO YOU”
MALACHI 3:1-18
TEXT: VERSE 7
INTRO: God wants all of His born-again children to be close to Him in personal fellowship always. However, unfortunately, as the born-again children of God, we often find ourselves straying away from Him which breaks His heart and weakens us spiritually. And if we remain “estranged” from God, He will chasten us in the effort to bring us back to Him. Throughout the pages of scripture, we find select passages which emphasize RETURNING BACK TO GOD when we have slipped away from Him. One of those passages of scripture is the entire book of Malachi. In Malachi, we find that Israel had become stale in their relationship with God and consequently allowed serious sin to enter into their lives, personally and nationally. Because God loved Israel, He called upon them TO RETURN UNTO HIM with the promise of, if they did, HE WOULD RETURN UNTO THEM. GOD’S MESSAGE TO ISRAEL THROUGH MALACHI, WHICH WAS GIVEN OVER 2400 YEARS AGO, IS VERY APPLICABLE TO INDIVIDUAL CHRISTIANS AND LOCAL CHURCHES TODAY WHO FIND THEMSELVES AWAY FROM GOD!
Sermon preached on 2/11/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
Part #2 preached on 2/18/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
UNDERSTANDING THE SACREDNESS OF HUMAN LIFE
"UNDERSTANDING THE SACREDNESS OF HUMAN LIFE”
GENESIS 1:26-31; PSALM 100:3; PSALM 139:13-17
INTRO: Since January 22, 1973 (51 years ago tomorrow) when the United States Supreme Court
legalized abortion in the ROE V. WADE case, nearly 64 MILLION PRECIOUS BABIES’ LIVES HAVE
BEEN ROBBED FROM THEIR MOTHERS WOMB, ABORTED AND KILLED. For 49 years, Christians and
pro-life supporters across America have prayed, petitioned, and marched for the overturning of ROE
V. WADE, which the UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT DID ON JUNE 24, 2022, to the Glory of God.
All Pro-lifers rejoiced over that decision and on Sunday June 26, 2022, I preached as sermon entitled:
A VICTORY HAS BEEN WON – WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?”
Sermon preached on 1/14/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
RETURN TO GOD: HIS WORD, HIS WILL AND HIS WAY
“RETURN TO GOD: HIS WORD, HIS WILL AND HIS WAY”
HOSEA 14:1-9
INTRO: The concept of RETURNING TO GOD occurs throughout the scriptures as God speaks to His
people. And, when God’s people genuinely RETURN TO HIM, He responds in a positive way. Note
the following passages:
● Lamentations 3:40; 2 Chronicles 30:9; Isaiah 44:22; Zechariah 1:3
RETURNING TO GOD is a concept that should be a continual ACT OF PERSONAL EVALUATION in the
life of EVERY CHILD OF GOD because no child of God is perfect, and thus, we all sin and fade away
from Him at times. (PLEASE NOTE THAT I AM NOT TALKING ABOUT OUR POSITION IN CHRIST,
BUT RATHER OUR FELLOWSHIP WITH CHRIST). As was mentioned last week in our first message
of this series, DAILY WE WOULD DO WELL TO ASK GOD TO EXAMINE US, THROUGH HIS WORD AND
BY MEANS OF HIS HOLY SPIRIT, AND WHEN HE REVEALS THAT WE HAVE DEPARTED FROM HIM IN
SOME WAY, SHAPE OR FORM, AS AN ACT OF OBEDIENCE TO HIM, WE WOULD DO WELL TO
CONFESS THE SIN, REPENT FROM WHENCE WE HAVE STRAYED AND RETURN TO HIM, KNOWING
THAT HE WILL ABUNDANLY PARDON, RECEIVE AND REVIVE US. (ISAIAH 55:7). Now spiritual logic
will tell us that there are MANY WAYS in which we may FADE in our WALK with the Lord. But
BIBLICALLY SPEAKING, ALL OF THOSE WAYS CAN BE CLASSIFIED UNDER ONE OF THE THREE
CATEGORIES: HIS WORD – HIS WILL – HIS WAY. So, the call of our message today is RETURN TO
GOD, HIS WORD, HIS WILL, AND HIS WAY! And, by the way, If God reveals to us that we have
strayed from Him, let’s not delay, but RETURN TO HIM ON THE IMMEDIATE!
Sermon preached on 1/14/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull
RETURN TO GOD
“RETURN TO GOD”
HOSEA 14:1-9
INTRO: As we enter into 2024 as a local church, the theme we want to keep before us is: RETURN TO GOD – HIS WORD, HIS WILL, HIS WAY. Now that may sound a bit elementary to some, but it is truly A FUNDAMENTAL CONCEPT THAT WE ALL SHOULD CONSIDER BECAUSE EVERY ONE OF US, WHO KNOW THE LORD, WILL STRAY FROM GOD’S WILL FROM TIME TO TIME WHICH REQUIRES THAT WE RETURN TO HIM. AND IF WE DON’T KEEP OURSELVES IN CHECK, EVENTUALLY WE FIND THAT WE ARE FAR FROM GOD’S WORD, WILL AND WAY, WHICH BRINGS DISHONOR AND DISGRACE TO HIS NAME.
Sermon preached on 1/7/24 AM by Pastor Gary Dull