Tempering The Mortar

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This sermon explores the incommunicable attribute of God's omnipotence, grounded in the declaration that power belongs exclusively to Him. The exposition contrasts human weakness and limitation with God's absolute, infinite, and unchanging strength, demonstrating that His ability is as vast as His will. The sermon highlights how this power is displayed in creation, the governance of the world, and most gloriously in the redemption of sinners through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. The preacher emphasizes that God's power is not merely terrifying but is tempered by mercy, justice, and love, serving as the ultimate source of comfort for believers. The message concludes with an exhortation to pray boldly, trust in God's ability to help in times of trial, and find hope in the secure perseverance of the saints, all secured by the Almighty's hand.

The sermon emphasizes the necessity of grounding one's life in sound doctrine, defined as truth that is firm and unrefutable, rather than relying on human opinion or superficial religious performance. It draws a distinction between merely professing faith and truly possessing it, urging believers to allow the presence of God to heat their hearts so that the Word of God can effectively shape their character. The message addresses specific roles within the church, calling older men to be sober and temperate, and older women to model holiness and teach younger generations to love their families and maintain their homes. It further instructs that all actions, from work to worship, must be done unto the Lord to ensure that the Word of God is not blasphemed by the disconnect between belief and behavior. Ultimately, the sermon challenges the congregation to live as authentic witnesses, allowing their transformed lives to point others to the glory of God.

This sermon examines the biblical framework for church governance, distinguishing between congregational, elder-led, and elder-ruled models to argue for the latter as the most scripturally sound approach. It establishes that Christ is the ultimate head of the local church, with human leaders serving as accountable stewards under His authority. The teaching defines the multifaceted role of an elder by synthesizing biblical terms such as shepherd, overseer, and teacher, emphasizing duties that include protecting the flock, guarding doctrine, and heralding the gospel. The discussion then transitions to the specific character qualifications for elders found in 1 Timothy 3, highlighting traits like temperance, hospitality, and self-control. The tone is instructional and pastoral, aiming to clarify the high calling of pastoral ministry and the necessity of personal integrity and spiritual maturity for those who aspire to lead the local congregation.

This sermon examines the biblical command to be filled with the Holy Spirit, distinguishing it from the initial indwelling of the Spirit at salvation. It clarifies that while all believers possess the fullness of the Spirit, they must actively yield to His influence to avoid living in the flesh. The message contrasts the loss of control associated with drunkenness with the self-control and joy produced by the Spirit, emphasizing that the fruit of the Spirit includes temperance rather than spiritual intoxication. The preacher outlines practical means for maintaining this filling, such as daily immersion in Scripture, prayer, and obedience to God's directives. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life characterized by gratitude, submission, and Christ-like conduct, urging believers to let the Spirit govern their relationships and service.

Praise God we have gathered again in the Lord's House to hear his word preached

I. Wisdom will be Displayed II. Wisdom will be Subject III. Wisdom will be Temperate

Peter gives a list of things that we need to focus on as a Christian, which are virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, and godliness. In our own strength, these are impossible, but with the divine power and exceeding great and precious promises, we can live according the God's will every day. Grab your Bible, turn to 2 Peter 1, and follow along with Pastor Mike.

This sermon explores the final fruit of the Spirit, temperance or self-control, defined as the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit to subdue the self for the glory of God. The central metaphor compares self-control to a city wall that protects the believer from the assaults of sin, fear, and worldly desires. The message emphasizes that this fruit is not achieved through mere human willpower or asceticism but is an inheritance purchased by Christ and cultivated through daily communion with Him. Practical steps for fortifying this spiritual defense include identifying personal weaknesses, fervent prayer, memorizing Scripture, and maintaining a posture of hope in Christ's grace rather than despairing over failure. The tone is pastoral and instructional, urging believers to rely on God's power to overcome sinful habits and remain steadfast in their faith.

Praise God we have gathered again in the Lord's House to hear his word preached