Simple - Strange - Successful
Ben McDonald
Text: Psalms 33:11
12/25/22
Ben McDonald
Text: Psalms 33:11
12/25/22
The Resurrection of Christ
Kaleb Nelson
12/18/22
Kaleb Nelson
12/18/22
Follow Me Into the Tomb of Jesus
Jesus was buried in a tomb following His death, but it wasn't His close disciples who buried Him, It was Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. We could call them "fringe" believers as they were not in Jesus' inner circle, or even His close disciples. Yet, they did what needed to be done. This sermon examines the burial of Jesus and exposes the faith of Joseph and Nicodemus. Listen or watch to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 19:38-43
12/11/22
Jesus was buried in a tomb following His death, but it wasn't His close disciples who buried Him, It was Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. We could call them "fringe" believers as they were not in Jesus' inner circle, or even His close disciples. Yet, they did what needed to be done. This sermon examines the burial of Jesus and exposes the faith of Joseph and Nicodemus. Listen or watch to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 19:38-43
12/11/22
Follow Me in Dark Times
No doubt there have been dark times in your life. The cross was a dark moment in the life of Christ. There was rejection, betrayal, and insults, not to mention the physical pain of the event. The day Jesus went to the cross was a dark day indeed, illustrated by the fact that literal darkness covered the land for three hours. Listen or watch to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: Lk 23:44-48
12/4/22
No doubt there have been dark times in your life. The cross was a dark moment in the life of Christ. There was rejection, betrayal, and insults, not to mention the physical pain of the event. The day Jesus went to the cross was a dark day indeed, illustrated by the fact that literal darkness covered the land for three hours. Listen or watch to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: Lk 23:44-48
12/4/22
Follow Me Out of the Crowd
When Jesus died on the cross, there were many faces in the crowd that day. Some were glad that He was on the cross, as they wanted to see justice against one they thought was a false teacher. For others, like the Roman soldiers at the foot of the cross, it was just another day of work. Where would you have been in the crowd at the cross? Would you have been cheering or jeering?
Aaron Baker
Text: Mark 15:21-32
11/27/22
When Jesus died on the cross, there were many faces in the crowd that day. Some were glad that He was on the cross, as they wanted to see justice against one they thought was a false teacher. For others, like the Roman soldiers at the foot of the cross, it was just another day of work. Where would you have been in the crowd at the cross? Would you have been cheering or jeering?
Aaron Baker
Text: Mark 15:21-32
11/27/22
Follow Me in Making Decisions
A Cornell University study in 2007 suggested that we make over 35,000 decisions in one day! Some of these decisions are insignificant, like what to eat, or drink, and some are monumental, like what job to accept.
Jesus is taken to his trial before Pilate and a decision must be made about what to do with Him. What will you decide about Jesus today?
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 23:13-23
11/20/22
A Cornell University study in 2007 suggested that we make over 35,000 decisions in one day! Some of these decisions are insignificant, like what to eat, or drink, and some are monumental, like what job to accept.
Jesus is taken to his trial before Pilate and a decision must be made about what to do with Him. What will you decide about Jesus today?
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 23:13-23
11/20/22
Follow Me After Heartbreak
We have all experienced heartbreak. Jesus experienced heartbreak as he faces the Jewish trials that were more like a kangaroo court than an attempt to discover the truth. He also experienced heartbreak as Peter claimed he did not know Jesus. In turn, Peter felt heartbreak where following his denial of Jesus, He turned and looked at Peter. As a result, Peter went out and wept bitterly.
What heartbreak have you experienced, or are experiencing? Jesus is able to relate, and able to comfort. Listen here or watch the sermon to learn more about Jesus' Jewish trials and Peter's denials and how to overcome heartbreak.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 18:15-18
11/13/22
We have all experienced heartbreak. Jesus experienced heartbreak as he faces the Jewish trials that were more like a kangaroo court than an attempt to discover the truth. He also experienced heartbreak as Peter claimed he did not know Jesus. In turn, Peter felt heartbreak where following his denial of Jesus, He turned and looked at Peter. As a result, Peter went out and wept bitterly.
What heartbreak have you experienced, or are experiencing? Jesus is able to relate, and able to comfort. Listen here or watch the sermon to learn more about Jesus' Jewish trials and Peter's denials and how to overcome heartbreak.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 18:15-18
11/13/22
Follow Me Towards Victory
In Jesus we find ultimately find victory. Without Jesus, we ultimately find failure and loss. Some think that the in-between times of facing failure means we lose our victory, and that is not the case. Jesus loves us so much, and went to the cross. He experienced failure, from a human perspective as many looked at Jesus' ministry as a failure. Yet, Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection points towards victory! Listen here or watch the sermon to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 16:32, 33
11/6/22
In Jesus we find ultimately find victory. Without Jesus, we ultimately find failure and loss. Some think that the in-between times of facing failure means we lose our victory, and that is not the case. Jesus loves us so much, and went to the cross. He experienced failure, from a human perspective as many looked at Jesus' ministry as a failure. Yet, Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection points towards victory! Listen here or watch the sermon to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 16:32, 33
11/6/22
Follow Me in Meaning
Jesus established the Lord's Supper for what meaning? For what purpose? Was it so that Jesus could make sure we had something to eat on a Sunday morning when we went to worship, so we wouldn't get hungry? There is more to the Lord's Supper than just bread and juice!
This sermon reaches back to the time of the Passover to understand the historical landscape which Jesus used to institute the Lord's Supper. Jesus IS our Passover lamb! It is with that understanding that we learn about the Lord's Supper and grasp more deeply what it is, what it means, and how it applies to us today.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 26:26-29
10/30/22
Jesus established the Lord's Supper for what meaning? For what purpose? Was it so that Jesus could make sure we had something to eat on a Sunday morning when we went to worship, so we wouldn't get hungry? There is more to the Lord's Supper than just bread and juice!
This sermon reaches back to the time of the Passover to understand the historical landscape which Jesus used to institute the Lord's Supper. Jesus IS our Passover lamb! It is with that understanding that we learn about the Lord's Supper and grasp more deeply what it is, what it means, and how it applies to us today.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 26:26-29
10/30/22
Follow My Example
Jesus gives the ultimate lesson about service, not be teaching, but by DOING. In order to teach His followers how to serve, He served. John 13 gives us a unique glimpse into a tender moment Jesus has with His disciples. I imagine they were surprised, dismayed, and uncomfortable when their Master donned a towel and began to wash their feet. Are we like our master? Are we willing to serve others though it may be an uncomfortable, thankless, and dirty job? Only you can answer that...
Aaron Baker
Text: John 13:1-10
10/23/22
Jesus gives the ultimate lesson about service, not be teaching, but by DOING. In order to teach His followers how to serve, He served. John 13 gives us a unique glimpse into a tender moment Jesus has with His disciples. I imagine they were surprised, dismayed, and uncomfortable when their Master donned a towel and began to wash their feet. Are we like our master? Are we willing to serve others though it may be an uncomfortable, thankless, and dirty job? Only you can answer that...
Aaron Baker
Text: John 13:1-10
10/23/22
Follow Me in Preparation
It has been said that an ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure. We prepare for the possibility of flooding, fire, and car crashes with insurance. We prepare for retirement with pensions, IRAs, and 401k's yet many do not prepare for the day they stand before God.
In this lesson, Jesus teaches the parable of the ten virgins. Five of those were prepared, and five were not. Listen or watch to see what we can learn about being prepared. Are you prepared?
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 25:1-13
10/16/22
It has been said that an ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure. We prepare for the possibility of flooding, fire, and car crashes with insurance. We prepare for retirement with pensions, IRAs, and 401k's yet many do not prepare for the day they stand before God.
In this lesson, Jesus teaches the parable of the ten virgins. Five of those were prepared, and five were not. Listen or watch to see what we can learn about being prepared. Are you prepared?
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 25:1-13
10/16/22
Follow Me to See Jesus
In the last week of Jesus' life, some groups were still interested in Jesus, wanting to see what He was all about. Some Greeks approach Jesus' disciples and wish to see Jesus, which sparks Jesus' teaching on the importance of the cross. The question asked was, "Sirs, we wish to see Jesus." Is that what we want today? Are we searching for social programs, "feel-good" ministries that offer a lot of fluff and little substance, or do we truly desire to see Jesus?
Aaron Baker
Text: John 12:20-26
10/9/22
In the last week of Jesus' life, some groups were still interested in Jesus, wanting to see what He was all about. Some Greeks approach Jesus' disciples and wish to see Jesus, which sparks Jesus' teaching on the importance of the cross. The question asked was, "Sirs, we wish to see Jesus." Is that what we want today? Are we searching for social programs, "feel-good" ministries that offer a lot of fluff and little substance, or do we truly desire to see Jesus?
Aaron Baker
Text: John 12:20-26
10/9/22
Follow Me Away From Hypocrisy
Matthew chapter 23 holds a harsh critique by Jesus of the religious leaders of the day. Jesus points out some things these groups were doing right, but also many things they were doing wrong. One of the main critiques is against hypocrisy. Jesus hated it...and so do we! Listen or watch to learn how we can make sure we are not accomplices of hypocrisy, but flee from it.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 23:13-22
10/2/22
Matthew chapter 23 holds a harsh critique by Jesus of the religious leaders of the day. Jesus points out some things these groups were doing right, but also many things they were doing wrong. One of the main critiques is against hypocrisy. Jesus hated it...and so do we! Listen or watch to learn how we can make sure we are not accomplices of hypocrisy, but flee from it.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 23:13-22
10/2/22
How to be Brave Without a GPS
We all have the capacity to be brave, whether we feel like it or not. This lesson encourages us to be brave and see how we can be brave, even when it's difficult.
Nate Birt
9/25/22
We all have the capacity to be brave, whether we feel like it or not. This lesson encourages us to be brave and see how we can be brave, even when it's difficult.
Nate Birt
9/25/22
Follow Me Closer to the Cross
You've probably heard it said, "Inch by inch, it's a cinch." In most cases, that is true! One small bit of homework at a time will soon accomplish the assignment. One small nail at a time will eventually complete the house. One small step will eventually complete the marathon. However, if we don't start, we'll never complete anything.
In this sermon, we see Jesus inching closer and closer to the cross. Many surround Him and question Him and try to trap Him so they can destroy Him as his teachings make them uncomfortable and cause them to lose followers. This sermon looks at Jesus answering several questions from the Scribes, Pharisees, Herodians, and Sadducees as these religious leaders make an unlikely alliance to take Him down. Yet, we are amazed at the truth, simplicity and depth of Jesus answers.
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 20:20-26
9/18/22
You've probably heard it said, "Inch by inch, it's a cinch." In most cases, that is true! One small bit of homework at a time will soon accomplish the assignment. One small nail at a time will eventually complete the house. One small step will eventually complete the marathon. However, if we don't start, we'll never complete anything.
In this sermon, we see Jesus inching closer and closer to the cross. Many surround Him and question Him and try to trap Him so they can destroy Him as his teachings make them uncomfortable and cause them to lose followers. This sermon looks at Jesus answering several questions from the Scribes, Pharisees, Herodians, and Sadducees as these religious leaders make an unlikely alliance to take Him down. Yet, we are amazed at the truth, simplicity and depth of Jesus answers.
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 20:20-26
9/18/22
Follow Me with Authority
Authority. Often times, that word alone is enough to make people cringe. Many want to be their own authority in their life. They want to be the one in charge, and they end up being their own god. However, we do see Jesus speaking, teaching, performing miracles and serving with authority. The question is launched at Jesus, "By what authority do you do these things?" In an answer to this question, Jesus launches out with a series of parables to expose the hardness of heart for those asking the question. They really weren't interested in where Jesus got His authority, but rather they just wanted Him to stop taking away their authority. Watch or listen below as we look at the authority of Jesus.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 21:23-27
9/11/22
Authority. Often times, that word alone is enough to make people cringe. Many want to be their own authority in their life. They want to be the one in charge, and they end up being their own god. However, we do see Jesus speaking, teaching, performing miracles and serving with authority. The question is launched at Jesus, "By what authority do you do these things?" In an answer to this question, Jesus launches out with a series of parables to expose the hardness of heart for those asking the question. They really weren't interested in where Jesus got His authority, but rather they just wanted Him to stop taking away their authority. Watch or listen below as we look at the authority of Jesus.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 21:23-27
9/11/22
Follow Me in Serving God
Service to God is a choice we make. We either do it, or we don't, but we are not forced. Yet, we will see people serve God for a variety of reasons. Some people will serve with their own interests in mind. That is, they'll serve as long as they get some benefit from it. They might insist upon serving in with their own benefit in mind like those workers at the marketplace who seem to demand a contract before going to work in the field. As we look at the topic of service, there is much to learn about how to serve God in a way that is pleasing to Him.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 20:1-16
9/4/22
Service to God is a choice we make. We either do it, or we don't, but we are not forced. Yet, we will see people serve God for a variety of reasons. Some people will serve with their own interests in mind. That is, they'll serve as long as they get some benefit from it. They might insist upon serving in with their own benefit in mind like those workers at the marketplace who seem to demand a contract before going to work in the field. As we look at the topic of service, there is much to learn about how to serve God in a way that is pleasing to Him.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 20:1-16
9/4/22
Follow Me Into Town
When you were younger, did you want to go to town whenever anyone was going? I did! I always wanted to go to Thrifty's and get a school of ice cream if I could. Delicious!
Jesus went to Jerusalem lots of times, but never like this! In this lesson, we look at Jesus' entry into Jerusalem and we see the welcome He received from many, urging Him to be their Savior. The only problem was, He was not the kind of Savior they wanted. The people were looking for a military savior to expel the Romans from the Jewish nation. However, Jesus came with a different purpose, to seek and save the lost. Watch the video below to see what we can learn from Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem as He was welcomed like a king.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 21:1-12
8/28/22
(Sorry, no separate audio was recorded for this lesson.)
When you were younger, did you want to go to town whenever anyone was going? I did! I always wanted to go to Thrifty's and get a school of ice cream if I could. Delicious!
Jesus went to Jerusalem lots of times, but never like this! In this lesson, we look at Jesus' entry into Jerusalem and we see the welcome He received from many, urging Him to be their Savior. The only problem was, He was not the kind of Savior they wanted. The people were looking for a military savior to expel the Romans from the Jewish nation. However, Jesus came with a different purpose, to seek and save the lost. Watch the video below to see what we can learn from Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem as He was welcomed like a king.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 21:1-12
8/28/22
(Sorry, no separate audio was recorded for this lesson.)
Follow Me Like a Child
Children were brought to Jesus near the last week of His life, and even in these tenuous, tumultuous, and time-constrained days, He still took time for children. What follows this event is a series of teachings Jesus gives in what qualities His followers need which children actively display. Listen here or watch as we learn more about how to follow Jesus like a child (without being childish).
Aaron Baker
Text: Mark 10:13-22
8/21/22
Children were brought to Jesus near the last week of His life, and even in these tenuous, tumultuous, and time-constrained days, He still took time for children. What follows this event is a series of teachings Jesus gives in what qualities His followers need which children actively display. Listen here or watch as we learn more about how to follow Jesus like a child (without being childish).
Aaron Baker
Text: Mark 10:13-22
8/21/22
Follow Me Into Eternity
Do you ever what happens right after death, or what it will be like? In Luke 16, Jesus gives a unique glimpse of what it the afterlife is like. Following different paths and different destinations of two men, we are allowed a look into the realm of the dead: Hades. For some, it is a place of comfort. For others, it is a place of torment. For us...we have to consider which destination is ours!
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 16:19-31
8/14/22
Do you ever what happens right after death, or what it will be like? In Luke 16, Jesus gives a unique glimpse of what it the afterlife is like. Following different paths and different destinations of two men, we are allowed a look into the realm of the dead: Hades. For some, it is a place of comfort. For others, it is a place of torment. For us...we have to consider which destination is ours!
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 16:19-31
8/14/22
Follow Me in Unwinding Tension
In Luke 11, Jesus pronounces six woes upon the Pharisees and the Lawyers while attending a meal to which the Pharisee invited him. Talk about tension!
Have you ever had tension at home? At the dinner table? In your marriage? Jesus had to deal with tension. When we deal with tension, what are some ways we can be successful at coming out of a tense situation on the winning side? Listen here
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 11:37-42
7/31/22
In Luke 11, Jesus pronounces six woes upon the Pharisees and the Lawyers while attending a meal to which the Pharisee invited him. Talk about tension!
Have you ever had tension at home? At the dinner table? In your marriage? Jesus had to deal with tension. When we deal with tension, what are some ways we can be successful at coming out of a tense situation on the winning side? Listen here
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 11:37-42
7/31/22
Be Slow to Question God's Motives
There are times where we might question God in our lives. Perhaps we ask questions like:
Why did this happen, God?
How did this happen to me?
Who did this?
When will this happen?
This lesson encourages us to really think and be slow to question God's motives. We see man's boldness to question God (38:1--6). We see man's boldness to stand against God (40:1, 2), and we see that ultimately, man must be bold and submit to God (40:6-14)
Josh Alley (2022 Summer Intern)
Text: Job 38:1-6
7/24/2022
There are times where we might question God in our lives. Perhaps we ask questions like:
Why did this happen, God?
How did this happen to me?
Who did this?
When will this happen?
This lesson encourages us to really think and be slow to question God's motives. We see man's boldness to question God (38:1--6). We see man's boldness to stand against God (40:1, 2), and we see that ultimately, man must be bold and submit to God (40:6-14)
Josh Alley (2022 Summer Intern)
Text: Job 38:1-6
7/24/2022
The Cost of Discipleship
Following Jesus is challenging. It demands preparation, self denial, standing up for the truth and loving the Lord deeply. This lesson shows us that there is a cost to being a disciple, or follower of Jesus. Take a look at the video below to learn more.
Bill Haywood
Text: Luke 14:25-34
7/17/2022
Following Jesus is challenging. It demands preparation, self denial, standing up for the truth and loving the Lord deeply. This lesson shows us that there is a cost to being a disciple, or follower of Jesus. Take a look at the video below to learn more.
Bill Haywood
Text: Luke 14:25-34
7/17/2022
Paul's Fight, Finish and Fidelity
Aaron was out sick today, so our guest speaker is Josh Alley. This lesson from second Timothy shows us Paul's life. He worked diligently out of love for the Lord to fight the good fight, to finish the race, and to be faithful to God each day. Take a look at the video below to learn more.
Josh Alley (2022 Summer Intern)
Text: 2 Timothy 4: 6-8
7/10/2022
Aaron was out sick today, so our guest speaker is Josh Alley. This lesson from second Timothy shows us Paul's life. He worked diligently out of love for the Lord to fight the good fight, to finish the race, and to be faithful to God each day. Take a look at the video below to learn more.
Josh Alley (2022 Summer Intern)
Text: 2 Timothy 4: 6-8
7/10/2022
Follow Me Towards Jesus
If you were to stop and think about why you follow Jesus, what are some of the reasons you could think of? As we look at John 6, we see some following Jesus out of amazement, for their appetite, and because Jesus could help them accumulate stuff. If we look at our lives, perhaps we need to deeply consider why we are following Jesus.
Watch the video of this sermon below to learn more about why some follow Jesus, and why we should follow Jesus.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 6:25-27
7/3/2022
If you were to stop and think about why you follow Jesus, what are some of the reasons you could think of? As we look at John 6, we see some following Jesus out of amazement, for their appetite, and because Jesus could help them accumulate stuff. If we look at our lives, perhaps we need to deeply consider why we are following Jesus.
Watch the video of this sermon below to learn more about why some follow Jesus, and why we should follow Jesus.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 6:25-27
7/3/2022
Follow Me in His Work
What does work look like to you? What does God's work look like to you? We cannot shirk away from the work God calls us to do.
As Jesus calls His disciples in Matthew 10, He encourages them to reach out "as you go" (10:7). Listen or watch this sermon to learn more about what is commonly known as the "limited commission" which was for Jesus's disciples and the "great commission" which is for us today.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 10:5-15
6/26/2022
What does work look like to you? What does God's work look like to you? We cannot shirk away from the work God calls us to do.
As Jesus calls His disciples in Matthew 10, He encourages them to reach out "as you go" (10:7). Listen or watch this sermon to learn more about what is commonly known as the "limited commission" which was for Jesus's disciples and the "great commission" which is for us today.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 10:5-15
6/26/2022
Follow Me...In Surprising Ways
Jesus surprised Matthew when called to "Follow Me!" Matthew seems to have known about Jesus and His teachings, but he was busy, and even at work! Nonetheless, Jesus called Matthew to follow, and he "left all, rose up, and followed Him" (Lk 5:28). Jesus calls to us to follow Him. What excuses do we offer? What stands in our way of following? Listen here or watch the video to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 9:9-13
6/19/22
Jesus surprised Matthew when called to "Follow Me!" Matthew seems to have known about Jesus and His teachings, but he was busy, and even at work! Nonetheless, Jesus called Matthew to follow, and he "left all, rose up, and followed Him" (Lk 5:28). Jesus calls to us to follow Him. What excuses do we offer? What stands in our way of following? Listen here or watch the video to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 9:9-13
6/19/22
Follow Jesus...We Have One Lord!
Guest speaker, Matt Stewart, delivers our sermon today. In this lesson, Matt shows us that we serve one Lord.
Matt Stewart
Text: Ephesians 4:5
6/12/22
Guest speaker, Matt Stewart, delivers our sermon today. In this lesson, Matt shows us that we serve one Lord.
Matt Stewart
Text: Ephesians 4:5
6/12/22
Follow Jesus...Because of His Stripes
Through the suffering of Jesus we find healing. Our guest speaker, and one of our own members here at Foristell, delivers an excellent lesson on the pain, suffering, and sacrifice Jesus endured for us. Watch below to learn more
Ben McDonald
Text: 1 Peter 2:21-24
6/5/22
Through the suffering of Jesus we find healing. Our guest speaker, and one of our own members here at Foristell, delivers an excellent lesson on the pain, suffering, and sacrifice Jesus endured for us. Watch below to learn more
Ben McDonald
Text: 1 Peter 2:21-24
6/5/22
Follow Me in Prayer
I think all of us realize we will never have a prayer life equal to that of Jesus. However, just because we can't do what He did, does not mean we should give up. Often Jesus prayed all night, or for hours on end. We may find it hard to go for 5 minutes at a time in prayer. So what do we do, give up? No!
In this sermon we look at the "Lord's Prayer" or perhaps a better description of it might be the "Model Prayer". In this teaching section which is part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches His followers how we might do better at prayer. Listen below or watch this lesson as we look at improving our prayer life, something I'm sure we all need to do!
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 6:9-15
5/29/22
I think all of us realize we will never have a prayer life equal to that of Jesus. However, just because we can't do what He did, does not mean we should give up. Often Jesus prayed all night, or for hours on end. We may find it hard to go for 5 minutes at a time in prayer. So what do we do, give up? No!
In this sermon we look at the "Lord's Prayer" or perhaps a better description of it might be the "Model Prayer". In this teaching section which is part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches His followers how we might do better at prayer. Listen below or watch this lesson as we look at improving our prayer life, something I'm sure we all need to do!
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 6:9-15
5/29/22
Follow Me in Love
It is easy to dislike an enemy and to hate those who hate us. However, Jesus calls us to love our enemies. Love means, "to seek their higher good." An enemy may not be my best friend (or it could be a best friend who betrays us), but how we treat our "enemies" matters.
In this lesson we let Jesus define, "Who is an enemy?" We also discover three right ways to treat an enemy and reasons behind why we should do the right thing, even when others don't. Watch below to learn more. Sorry, there is no separate audio for this sermon.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:43-48
5/22/22
It is easy to dislike an enemy and to hate those who hate us. However, Jesus calls us to love our enemies. Love means, "to seek their higher good." An enemy may not be my best friend (or it could be a best friend who betrays us), but how we treat our "enemies" matters.
In this lesson we let Jesus define, "Who is an enemy?" We also discover three right ways to treat an enemy and reasons behind why we should do the right thing, even when others don't. Watch below to learn more. Sorry, there is no separate audio for this sermon.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:43-48
5/22/22
Follow Me in Change
In order to follow Jesus, we will have to make changes. None of us are perfect, therefore we will encounter something in our lives which must be changed in order to continue follow in His steps.
The temptation is to pay back towards others whatever they have done to us. Jesus challenges us to not think in that direction, but to leave retribution behind and treat those who are against us differently. It's hard, I know! But, it is what Jesus calls us to do...live differently.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:38-42
5/15/22
In order to follow Jesus, we will have to make changes. None of us are perfect, therefore we will encounter something in our lives which must be changed in order to continue follow in His steps.
The temptation is to pay back towards others whatever they have done to us. Jesus challenges us to not think in that direction, but to leave retribution behind and treat those who are against us differently. It's hard, I know! But, it is what Jesus calls us to do...live differently.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:38-42
5/15/22
Follow Me in Shining Bright
Jesus encourages us to "let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify you Father in heaven." We might ask, "In what areas do we let our light shine? What about when others are mean towards us? What about in my marriage, when my spouse is acting hateful?"
Letting our lights shine includes our marriages and in the way we talk to others. Listen here to learn more about letting our lights shine when it truly is so difficult.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:31-37
5/8/22
Jesus encourages us to "let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify you Father in heaven." We might ask, "In what areas do we let our light shine? What about when others are mean towards us? What about in my marriage, when my spouse is acting hateful?"
Letting our lights shine includes our marriages and in the way we talk to others. Listen here to learn more about letting our lights shine when it truly is so difficult.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:31-37
5/8/22
Follow Me in Your Heart
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus hits some tough topics. The divide between what people had heard and what Jesus was teaching, were issues of the heart. In fact, from the heart comes anger which can lead to murder, and lust which can lead to adultery and divorce. Talk about tough topics. In this sermon we see how Jesus points to the real root of the problem, which is the heart.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:21-26
5/1/22
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus hits some tough topics. The divide between what people had heard and what Jesus was teaching, were issues of the heart. In fact, from the heart comes anger which can lead to murder, and lust which can lead to adultery and divorce. Talk about tough topics. In this sermon we see how Jesus points to the real root of the problem, which is the heart.
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:21-26
5/1/22
Follow Me in Seeing Things like Jesus
Jesus lived under the old law, the one given on Sinai and agreed to by Israel. As a result, He kept the law along with its rules and cultural customs. However, Jesus came to point us to a better way. He did not come to remove the law with violence, hate, or anger, but to fulfill it by His perfect sacrifice. Jesus has ended the old law and brought in a new covenant which we can be part of. Are we seeing things like Jesus?
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:17-20
4/24/22
(sorry no separate audio file)
Jesus lived under the old law, the one given on Sinai and agreed to by Israel. As a result, He kept the law along with its rules and cultural customs. However, Jesus came to point us to a better way. He did not come to remove the law with violence, hate, or anger, but to fulfill it by His perfect sacrifice. Jesus has ended the old law and brought in a new covenant which we can be part of. Are we seeing things like Jesus?
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:17-20
4/24/22
(sorry no separate audio file)
Follow Me in Your Example
What kind of example do you set for those around you? If you are a Christian, can people tell?
In this sermon, we we look at Jesus challenging His followers to be the positive influence in the world by being "salt" and "light". Are we influencing those around us, or are we just "existing" as Christians? Listen or watch to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: Mt 5:13-16
4/17/22
What kind of example do you set for those around you? If you are a Christian, can people tell?
In this sermon, we we look at Jesus challenging His followers to be the positive influence in the world by being "salt" and "light". Are we influencing those around us, or are we just "existing" as Christians? Listen or watch to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: Mt 5:13-16
4/17/22
Follow Me in Your Attitude
It is one thing to DO what God asks us to do, it is an entirely different thing to do what God asks us to do while having a good attitude. The beginning of the Sermon on the Mount shows us the attitude God calls us to have towards a variety of situations. Is my attitude where it needs to be, or do I need to change?
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:2-12
4/10/22
It is one thing to DO what God asks us to do, it is an entirely different thing to do what God asks us to do while having a good attitude. The beginning of the Sermon on the Mount shows us the attitude God calls us to have towards a variety of situations. Is my attitude where it needs to be, or do I need to change?
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 5:2-12
4/10/22
Follow Me in Diversity
From many disciples whom followed Jesus, He called 12 specifically to be Apostles. These 12 were very different and diverse, yet they were expected to get along and work together. Today the church should be diverse and is also expected to get along. What can we learn from Jesus calling and naming the 12 Apostles? Watch to learn more!
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 6:12-16
4/3/22
From many disciples whom followed Jesus, He called 12 specifically to be Apostles. These 12 were very different and diverse, yet they were expected to get along and work together. Today the church should be diverse and is also expected to get along. What can we learn from Jesus calling and naming the 12 Apostles? Watch to learn more!
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 6:12-16
4/3/22
Follow Me in Doing Good
Many tried to trap Jesus in His words, actions or methods. In Mark chapters 2 and 3 the "Sabbath" controversy was at its highest level. Many had placed keeping the Sabbath above doing good to others. Jesus reminds them that the Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. In essence, what good does it do to keep the Sabbath, but not do good to those around you when you have the opportunity. We have to have the right teachings to follow, obey and keep, but we ALSO have to have the right heart in our service towards God
Aaron Baker
Text: Mark 2:23-28
3/27/22
Many tried to trap Jesus in His words, actions or methods. In Mark chapters 2 and 3 the "Sabbath" controversy was at its highest level. Many had placed keeping the Sabbath above doing good to others. Jesus reminds them that the Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. In essence, what good does it do to keep the Sabbath, but not do good to those around you when you have the opportunity. We have to have the right teachings to follow, obey and keep, but we ALSO have to have the right heart in our service towards God
Aaron Baker
Text: Mark 2:23-28
3/27/22
Called to Follow
Peter and others were called to follow Jesus. This wasn't the first time they had seen Jesus perform miracles or the first time they had heard him teach. But, this was the first time they completely left all to follow Him. Jesus calls to us to follow Him. Will we follow? What holds us back from following? Is it work? Friends? Family? Fear?
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 5:1-11
3/20/22
Peter and others were called to follow Jesus. This wasn't the first time they had seen Jesus perform miracles or the first time they had heard him teach. But, this was the first time they completely left all to follow Him. Jesus calls to us to follow Him. Will we follow? What holds us back from following? Is it work? Friends? Family? Fear?
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 5:1-11
3/20/22
Follow Me Friends
Aaron Baker
Text: Mark 2:1-12
3/13/22
Aaron Baker
Text: Mark 2:1-12
3/13/22
Follow Me in Reaching Out
Jesus is one who came to set people free from pain and oppression, to proclaim the "year of the Lord." In essence, Jesus came to reach out to the world. Am I willing to be reached? Am I willing to reach out to others?
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 4:16-21
3/6/22
Jesus is one who came to set people free from pain and oppression, to proclaim the "year of the Lord." In essence, Jesus came to reach out to the world. Am I willing to be reached? Am I willing to reach out to others?
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 4:16-21
3/6/22
Follow Me Into the Kingdom
Many misunderstand what the kingdom is, and what it is about. This sermon looks at Jesus teaching Nicodemus about the kingdom and showing us that the kingdom of Christ is here, and it is a spiritual kingdom.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 3:1-6
2/27/22
Many misunderstand what the kingdom is, and what it is about. This sermon looks at Jesus teaching Nicodemus about the kingdom and showing us that the kingdom of Christ is here, and it is a spiritual kingdom.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 3:1-6
2/27/22
Follow Me: Who is He to you?
Knowing about someone is different than actually knowing them. I may know about Jesus, but do I know Him? Does He know me? This sermon looks at who Jesus is and more importantly, who He is TO ME!
Aaron Baker
Text: John 1:50-51
2/20/22
Knowing about someone is different than actually knowing them. I may know about Jesus, but do I know Him? Does He know me? This sermon looks at who Jesus is and more importantly, who He is TO ME!
Aaron Baker
Text: John 1:50-51
2/20/22
Follow Me INTO Christ
There are tremendous blessings that are found "in Christ". The opposite is that those blessings are not found outside of Christ. This sermons looks at what blessings the Scriptures teach are found "in Christ" as well as how we can be found "in Christ."
Aaron Baker
Text: Romans 6:3-4
2/13/22
There are tremendous blessings that are found "in Christ". The opposite is that those blessings are not found outside of Christ. This sermons looks at what blessings the Scriptures teach are found "in Christ" as well as how we can be found "in Christ."
Aaron Baker
Text: Romans 6:3-4
2/13/22
Follow Me to Deal with Sin
Sin is deadly, dangerous, and doggedly plagues us. Jesus came into the world so that we would have a way to deal with sin.
Aaron Baker
Text: Hebrews 2:14-18
2/6/22
Sin is deadly, dangerous, and doggedly plagues us. Jesus came into the world so that we would have a way to deal with sin.
Aaron Baker
Text: Hebrews 2:14-18
2/6/22
Follow Me in Worship
Worship is not a spectator sport; it is involvement, it is active, it is engagement. So, when's the last time you really worshipped? In this lesson we look at how worship is defined to learn how we can offer better worship to God.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 4:23, 24
1/30/22
Worship is not a spectator sport; it is involvement, it is active, it is engagement. So, when's the last time you really worshipped? In this lesson we look at how worship is defined to learn how we can offer better worship to God.
Aaron Baker
Text: John 4:23, 24
1/30/22
Follow Me In Your Parenting
There are no perfect parents out there, just ask Joseph and Mary. They lost Jesus when he was 12 years old! This sermon looks at what Joseph and Mary did right in raising Jesus, as well as what they did wrong in raising Him (like leaving him behind...). Listen or watch to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 2:41-50
1/23/22
There are no perfect parents out there, just ask Joseph and Mary. They lost Jesus when he was 12 years old! This sermon looks at what Joseph and Mary did right in raising Jesus, as well as what they did wrong in raising Him (like leaving him behind...). Listen or watch to learn more.
Aaron Baker
Text: Luke 2:41-50
1/23/22
Follow Me: I'll Show You the Way
If you were to try to get somewhere you had never been, how would you do it? Ok, I mean without using Siri or Google Maps? If you were searching for heaven, how would you find your way there? Wouldn't you want to know how to get there from someone who had been there? Jesus is from heaven, came to this earth, and is now back in heaven seated at the right hand of God. He can show us the way!
Aaron Baker
Text: John 14:1-6
1/16/22
If you were to try to get somewhere you had never been, how would you do it? Ok, I mean without using Siri or Google Maps? If you were searching for heaven, how would you find your way there? Wouldn't you want to know how to get there from someone who had been there? Jesus is from heaven, came to this earth, and is now back in heaven seated at the right hand of God. He can show us the way!
Aaron Baker
Text: John 14:1-6
1/16/22
Why Follow?
If Jesus calls us to follow Him, what motivation is there to follow? What makes Him qualified to be the one I follow? We examine some of these questions in this sermon. Watch or listen below
Aaron Baker
Text: John 10:17-18
1/9/22
If Jesus calls us to follow Him, what motivation is there to follow? What makes Him qualified to be the one I follow? We examine some of these questions in this sermon. Watch or listen below
Aaron Baker
Text: John 10:17-18
1/9/22
Follow Me
One of the greatest invitations and the most challenging in Scripture is when Jesus calls His disciples to follow Him. Today, if you are His disciple, you are encouraged to keep following. If you are not a disciple (a word which simply means, "follower"), then Jesus calls to you to follow Him. How will you respond? How will you react?
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 4:18-20
1/2/22
One of the greatest invitations and the most challenging in Scripture is when Jesus calls His disciples to follow Him. Today, if you are His disciple, you are encouraged to keep following. If you are not a disciple (a word which simply means, "follower"), then Jesus calls to you to follow Him. How will you respond? How will you react?
Aaron Baker
Text: Matthew 4:18-20
1/2/22