[Exposition of the book of Romans #32]

Romans 12:1-2

The Psalmist asked, “What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me?” (Psalm 116:12). This question is answered by the text, which begins and qualifies the third and final section of the epistle to the Romans (The Responsibility of the Christian). Using military service as an illustration, Pastor Sargent brings out three points: the APPEAL (“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God…”), the ASK (“…that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice…”), and the ADJUSTMENT (“…be ye transformed…”).

1 Timothy 1:5

Charity is not just a means, it is the very end!

[Exposition of the book of Romans #04]   

Romans 1:18-32

The text ushers one into the courtroom of the Judge of all the earth, where one hears a systematic unfolding of the case against humanity. In this message, Pastor Sargent explains how mankind stands condemned because it has rejected the revelation of God, any reverence for God, and the restraints of God.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #34]

Romans 12:17-21

How does a Christian deal with evil doers and troublemakers in his or her life? The options are to “BLAST them,” to “BURY the grievances,” or, to do what Jesus said and “BLESS them.” In expounding upon the text, Pastor Sargent brings out three actions a believer can and should take: Preëmptive actions (to avoid confrontations); Proactive actions (when troublemakers strike); and Protective Actions (when troublemakers persist).

[Exposition of the book of Romans #35]

Romans 13:1-7

This message presents a study of the Biblical doctrine of human government — considering its provision, its purpose, its province, and the believer’s participation as taught in the Word of God.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #01]   

Romans 1:1-7

The text is the epistle’s salutation. In this introduction to the book of Romans, Pastor Sargent highlights the three “calls” mentioned in the text: the call to salvation; the call to holiness; and the call to service.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #28]

Romans 10:13-21

There are two “unanswerable questions” in the New Testament. The first is found in Hebrews 2:3 — “How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation?” The second is found in the text: “How shall they hear without a preacher?” (Romans 10:14). In this message, Pastor Sargent addresses the great responsibility Bible-believing Baptist churches have to preach the Gospel throughout the world — highlighting the great need for preachers, the great rewards that come in the form of the fruits of evangelism, and the great struggle involved in the quest for souls.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #36]

Romans 13:8-14

The thirteenth chapter of the book of Romans addresses the Christian’s responsibility as a citizen — with respect to the government, to fellow citizens, and to one’s testimony. In this practical message, Pastor Sargent brings out what it means to have a conscience void of offence toward man and a conscience void of offence toward God.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #40]

Romans 15:1-13

This message brings out the simple yet profound key to experiencing the joy of the Lord in one’s Christian life and service: “J-O-Y,” meaning J-ESUS first, O-THERS next, and Y-OURSELF last. In expounding the passage, Pastor Sargent shows how and why this order is important.

Proverbs 12:27

Do you “hunt” within the word of God for wisdom?  Are you diligent or slothful in the pursuit of the “game?”  Do you classify your Bible reading as “sport,” or for “sustenance?”

[Exposition of the book of Romans #27]

Romans 10:1-13

The Jews, like many church-goers today, sought to establish their own righteousness by means of their religious zeal and observance of the rules. In this message, faith is contrasted with sight. The righteousness of God is imputed by faith, and in this message Pastor Sargent brings out the MEANING of faith, the MEANS of faith, and the MOTION or act of faith.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #26]

Romans 9:1-33

Bible-believing Baptists are neither Calvinist nor Arminian — they are Bible! In this message, Pastor Sargent affirms that God is indeed “sovereign” … meaning that He is above all and independent of all; that He can do as He pleases and always be right ... and that as Sovereign, God has (unconditionally) elected (chosen) to save anyone and everyone who places their faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. This is contrasted with the beliefs and actions of the Israelites, who expected their connection with the Patriarchs and their “will of the flesh” keeping of the Law was sufficient to attain the righteousness of God.

1 Corinthians 2:13

Author Joshua Harris has recently denounced Christianity (and his marriage) and the world has since denounced his book “I Kissed Dating Goodbye”.  This message challenges Christians to evaluate any book, and source outside the Bible by the ultimate Truth-filter, the Word of God!

Proverbs 18:14

Through ongoing infirmities Christians can be sustained spiritually.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #03]   

Romans 1:16-17

The text is the key verse of the book of Romans. In his exposition of this passage, Pastor Sargent notes the prominence of the Gospel of Christ in the book of Romans and brings out three considerations (based on the word “for”).

[Exposition of the book of Romans #21]

Romans 8:1-13

Chapter eight is the “Holy Spirit chapter” of the book of Romans, Him being mentioned 19 times (as opposed to just once in the previous chapters). From this text, Pastor Sargent identifies the essential difference between the saved and the lost — that being the indwelling Holy Spirit. Two keys truths concerning the Holy Spirit are considered in the message: the indwelling and the infilling of the Holy Spirit.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #20]

Romans 7:7–8:2

Returning to Romans chapter seven, Pastor Sargent identifies five laws that are important for the believer to understand – the Law of God, the Law of Sin, the Law of Conflict, the Law of the Mind, and the Law of the Spirit. This message focuses on the struggle between the flesh and the Spirit that is experienced by believers and looks to the higher Law of the Spirit of Life that makes the believer free from the Law of Sin and Death.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #22]

Romans 8:14-27

Building upon the great truths expounded upon in the previous message, Pastor Sargent enumerates three works of the Spirit of God with respect to the believer — notably: the relationship into which He brings us; the reassurance He gives to us; and the representation He makes for us.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #17]

Romans 6:15-23

This message addresses the second question posed in Romans chapter 6: “Shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace?” Many Christians do not seem to understand what it means to be under grace and not under the law, oftentimes adopting an antinomian attitude expressed by statements such as “I can live my life, and worship and serve God as I please.” Pastor Sargent explains that true liberty in Christ is the freedom to do what is right, which, for the believer, is to live for Christ under the royal law of liberty (the Law of Love). Romans 6:17-18 provide a template for every believer’s testimony: “Ye WERE;” “Ye HAVE;” and “Ye BECAME.”

1 John 2:2

The Scripture clearly teaches Christ’s light, forgiveness, cleansing, and love is unlimited and unbounded.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #37]

Romans 14:1-9

This message looks the matter of FAITH as it applies in the life of a believer. It considers the MEASURE of one’s Faith; the MEANING of Faith, and its need for a foundation of knowledge; and the MAGNIFICATION of one’s Faith by growing in grace.

Mark 5:1-20

The scripture passage presents details about the man, the Messiah, and the masses.  The power of the solution to a situation is oftentimes more fearful than the problem itself.

Proverbs 16:4

Proper hermeneutics does not allow the text to be rendered in a manner aligning with reform theology.

Luke 13:6-9

If there are no figs on the tree, why cumbereth it the ground?  God plants, He expects fruit!

Matthew 28:16,17

The actions of the disciples prior to receipt of the Great Commission is very instructive to us today.  Faithful assembly and worshipping in spirit and in truth are prerequisites to the Great Commission direction we receive.

John 5:31-47

Jesus’ works were certainly unique.  His works pointed to the fact He was equal to God and showed His oneness with the Father.

Exodus 3:13-15

God has a name that is forever and has given us a memorial unto all generations.  Just as God’s actions reveal to us his attributes, the name of THE one true God is to be remembered as a revealing of God’s nature.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #30]

Romans 11:13-32

This section of the chapter is addressed specifically to Gentile believers and their relationship to Israel and the Jews under the present economy. Pastor Sargent points out the great debt Gentile Christians owe to God’s chosen people, and also expounds upon the warnings of apostasy among the Lord’s churches presented in the text.

2 Samuel 11:1-5

There are many contrasts between the descriptions of the strange woman and specific women with which men have fallen.  In looking at the life of Bathsheba we see a glimpse of the world today.  Satan is subtle, man is deceived, and God is just in dealing with us when we are deceived.  That which is strange often appears much more beautiful than evil.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #29]

Romans 11:1-5

This key chapter answers the question of whether God is finished Israel and the Jews as a nation, or whether they are included in His future plans. Pastor Sargent unfolds, from the chapter and other scriptures, Israel’s PAST, Israel’s PRESENT, and Israel’s FUTURE — addressing the pernicious and false doctrine of “Replacement Theology” (the belief that the prophecies and promises concerning God’s chosen people have been transferred to the “Church” and to Christians) from its past and present impact.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #19]

Romans 7:7-25

Having declared the Jewish believer to be dead to the Law, this passage develops the ramifications of that great truth relative to the “life I now live in the flesh.” Pastor Sargent identifies three “testimonies” from the text: that of the natural man (Saul of Tarsus) and the purpose of the Law; that of the carnal believer (who seeks to conform the flesh to the Law of God); and that of the spiritual man, who looks outside of himself and to Jesus Christ for the life of victory.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #18]

Romans 7:1-6

The text continues to emphasize the doctrine of the believer’s identification with Jesus Christ that began with chapter six. Specifically, in this passage, the Jewish believer’s standing in Christ with respect to the Law is considered. Pastor Sargent examines the analogy of marriage and the application of remarriage that is used to illustrate the new relationship a believer has in Christ. He also highlights some of the salient Biblical teaching concerning marriage and divorce.

1 Corinthians 16:1-12

What is it that God allows or permits us to do?  How does His will for our lives play out in our day to day life?  Are your plans pursuant to God’s will?

2 Peter 3

One of God’s attributes is His longsuffering, however, the message of urgency is mentioned throughout scripture.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #15]

Romans 5:12-21

This passage compares and contrasts two men (Adam and Jesus Christ) and their legacies that have impacted all mankind – two acts that produced two results, two reigns, and two standings. Pastor Sargent expounds upon the nature and consequences of Adam’s disobedience and Christ’s obedience unto death, even the death of the cross.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #16]

Romans 6:1-14

Romans chapter six shifts the emphasis from the sinner to the saint, and asks two questions relating to the Christian life (verses 1 and 15). This message addresses the first of these questions: “Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?” Pastor Sargent brings our three key words from the passage – “KNOW,” “RECKON,” and “YIELD” – showing how they are vital to Christ living His life victoriously through the believer.

Ecclesiastes 2:12-15

Without proper perspective, our attitudes and actions can become perverted away from the straight path of God’s Word. Proper perspective prevents perversity.  Pastor Geist presents the lives of five men in the Bible who, at times, had contradictory and harmful perspectives.

John 6:24-40

We can seek Jesus with the wrong motive labour for the wrong manna, and will for the wrong master.  This passage in John provides help for us to seek right, labour right, and will right.

Ruth 3; Hebrews 4:11

A virtuous woman prepares for redemption in pursuit of rest.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #09]

Romans 3:9-20

The text gives the “prosecutor’s summary” of the case against mankind and the divine verdict — delivered by One Who speaks as a Judge, a Physician, and an Historian.

 [Exposition of the book of Romans #13]

Romans 5:1-5

Romans chapter five transitions from the considerations of man’s lack of righteousness and the righteousness of God in Christ to the Christian life itself. In this message, Pastor Sargent explains the difference between a believer’s standing in Christ (his “position”) and the state of his Christian life (his “performance”).

Ephesians 4:29-5:4

We are to speak kindness, not corrupt communication.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #14]

Romans 5:6-11

Focusing on Romans 5:8, Pastor Sargent seeks to magnify the love of God by expounding upon man’s condition, and the Saviour’s cross and its consequence for the believer.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #06]

Romans 2:17-20

In this portion of the text, the spotlight falls upon the nation of Israel and God’s purpose in choosing them as a special people. Pastor Sargent points out that Israel was chosen to be a testimony of God’s grace to the nations, and a channel for delivering and preserving the written Word of God (the Old Testament).

Proverbs 30:7-9

The removal of vanity and lies and the receipt of neither poverty nor riches are worthy life goals.  How would you finish the sentence: “Before I die. . .”

1 Kings 3:5-15; Proverbs 18:1

What is your dream?  What is your desire?  The historical interpretation in the text leads to a personal application which will cause us to examine our desires.

1 Peter 1:1-5

Real hope is not found in this world, it is found in a full salvation.  As Christians, we have a sure hope of a better future.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #08]

Romans 3:1-8

The text contains nine question marks. In bringing home the reality of their spiritual standing before God, the apostle poses a series of rhetorical questions to the Jews. Pastor Sargent brings out three conclusions from the passage: one, what one believes doesn’t change God’s truth; two, how one reasons or thinks doesn’t change God’s truth; and, three, what one does doesn’t change God’s truth.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #02]   

Romans 1:8-15

The text declares the epistle’s purpose. Pastor Sargent emphasizes the apostle’s delight, desire, and indebtedness, while including some of the history of the churches in Rome. The message considers the relationship between the will of God, the desire of the heart, and the place of prayer for the servant of God.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #07]

Romans 2:21-29

The Jews rested and boasted in the Law (not in doing it, but in having it) and in their circumcision. Pastor Sargent expounds this passage to show how the Jews, by breaking God’s commandments, have impaired their mission and invalidated their mark.

Psalm 14

The world view you hold to will determine the actions and beliefs that you have.  Socialism chooses to remove God out of the equation; out of consideration.  

[Exposition of the book of Romans #24]

Romans 8:31-39

Romans chapter eight begins with the words “NO CONDEMNATION” and ends with NO SEPARATION, and this text represents the pinnacle of the Christian’s position in Christ this side of Heaven. Building this message around three questions posed in the text, Pastor Sargent shows that every child of God is completely saved (verse 33), completely unshackled (verse 34), and completely secure (verse 35) in Jesus Christ.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #23]

Romans 8:28-31

Romans 8:28 is one of the most quoted verses in the Bible. It is indeed a “pillow for the head of a weary pilgrim” — although it is sometimes misquoted and misapplied. Pastor Sargent explains the “good” for which all things work together in the lives of those who love God and who are the called according to His purpose. Life’s circumstances and experiences are designed by a loving, providential God to bring about that for which every believer is predestined.

John 20:19-29

The cornerstone of Bible-based Christianity and the central message of the Gospel is the resurrection of Jesus Christ.  The testimony of many witnesses speak to the infallible proof of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Acts 4:13-33

As a result of a prayer meeting, multitudes were saved and when this first church prayed there was an earthquake. Today, we pray when there is an earthquake. Listen now to hear this example of prayer and the work God did through their prayer.

2 Timothy 2:2

Are you called to preach?  We are all to be faithful servants and able to teach others also.

Galatians 5:13-16

Many Christians today bite and devour one another and are consumed one of another.  The liberty that we have was never meant that we have the right to do whatever we please.  Liberty is the freedom that we have to do what God wants.

Proverbs 11:16,17

Our old nature is against grace and mercy.  We need to express grace and mercy at all times.  Self is merciless; mercy is selfless!

1 Kings 18:1-16

Elijah was a man of faith, whereas Obadiah was a man of fear. The fear of man bringeth a snare.  Too many Christians today are snared with fear.  Through a careful study of Elijah and Obadiah we can see how to overcome fear with God’s help.

Luke 23:47

The Centurion’s report was a declaration of Christ’s righteousness delivering from death and directing in life.

Psalm 103:1-5

The Psalmist  [David] gives us seven reasons to Bless the Lord.  We do not need to pay the Lord lip service, but express a heartfelt expression of gratitude for all He has done for us.

Proverbs 22:6

It takes a lot of patience and work for a horticulturist with trimming and pruning a tree to produce fabulous looking shrubbery and trees.  It also requires patience and care.  This is much the same as raising children.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #12]   

Romans 4:1-25

The Jews believed they were right with God on two main grounds: their possession of God’s Law (which they failed to keep), and their connection with Abraham and the sign of the covenant (circumcision). In this message, Pastor Sargent explains how the example of Abraham clearly demonstrates and defends the doctrine of justification by faith.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #11]

Romans 3:27-31

Faith and works are mutually exclusive, and faith has always been the way to receive God’s grace, most notably the blessing of justification — for Old Testament saints and New Testament believers; both Jew and Gentile.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #10]

Romans 3:21-26

From this passage, Pastor Sargent explains some of the great words associated with the Gospel and God’s plan of salvation — notably, “righteousness,” “faith,” “justification,” “redemption, “propitiation,” and “grace.”

Proverbs 30:8

In this fast-paced world we live in, we are all prone to seeking convenient foods at times.  Are we that way with spiritual food as well?

John 10:11-8

Other men die because they have to die, no man can escape death.  Jesus’ death was voluntary.

Philippians 2:19-23

Paul and Timothy were of like mind in ministering to others and endeavoring to be Christ-like.  Many that had been with Paul moved on.  Many in our churches today have chosen to move on.

Daniel 10

Spiritual battles are all around.  Principalities and powers are at work against Christians.

Jonah 3:5-4:11

Love and anger are powerful emotions. Jonah demonstrates for us causes and consequences of anger. God’s Word shows us how to deal with anger.

Matthew 6:19-34

Prioritizing and dealing with our thoughts and emotions is a battle within our mind.  Bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ and having a ready mind.  Are you anxious over temporal things?

Proverbs 31:10-31

Just as God describes the Virtuous Woman, He also provides great insight into the Virtuous Husband.  The husband, and future husbands, are provided with instruction in this passage so that they may be the protector and provider God would have them to be.

1 Corinthians 1:10-18

God’s Word is very clear in presenting who should be baptized, what baptism does, and who is responsible to baptize.

Micah 5:1-5

Is this Christmas season just a time of holidays, giving gifts, nostalgia or a precious reminder of God’s love and grace to us?

[Exposition of the book of Romans #41]

Romans 15:13-17

As the epistle moves into its concluding salutations and remarks, the Apostle Paul rehearses his ministry whereby one may observe some interesting examples concerning the conduct of church-planting evangelism. In this message, Pastor Sargent takes one phrase from verse 16 — “the offering up of the Gentiles” — and explains what it means in relation to salvation, service, sacrificial giving, and ministry.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #42]

Romans 16:1-16

This salutary passage yields some interesting insights into the first-century Christian world, shedding additional light on Paul’s conversion to Christ, the commitment of the believers in that day, the work of women, and the relationships that existed between churches of like faith and order.

John 3:29-34

Jesus’ words are different from anyone else.  Never a man spake like this man!

John 3:25-36

How are we made right with God?  Regarding purifying, how do we have our sins washed away?  The focus is upon Jesus Christ!

Proverbs 4:5-9

Wisdom is the principal thing; we are to love, embrace, exalt and praise her.

1 Timothy 1:18-20

There is a need for you to live for Christ with a straight course.  Do not let your life as a Christian result in shipwreck.  

Three Corporate Relationships

Ephesians 2:14-22

As a Christian, each of us should have an individual relationship with God; however, we have a corporate relationship with God as well.  The text describes we as a church body as fellowcitizens, of the household of God, and a holy temple.

Titus 1:1-5

Our recent Missions Conference is somewhat like a commencement; now that things that are wanting have been set in order we are to continue to build and maintain good works.

Hebrews 1:1-4

God hath spoken. . . have you heard.  Does the Spirit bear witness with your spirit that you are a child of God?  If a child, then an heir.  Are you in the family?  

[Exposition of the book of Romans #39]

Romans 14:17-18

Pastor Sargent defines the Kingdom of God and its relationship to the Lord’s churches, and then expounds upon the spiritual qualities of kingdom life and service.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #38]

Romans 14:10-16

This message considers the matter of judging others in light of the coming Judgment Seat of Christ.

Psalm 26:1

David makes an emphatic, declaration that he shall not slide.  Regarding judging yourself, your daily walk, and trusting God, can you state emphatically “I shall not slide?”

Proverbs 19:21

One of the biggest lies of Satan and this world is to follow your heart.  God’s Word makes it abundantly clear that we are to follow His Word instead of our own deceitful heart!

Proverbs 22:11

In a general sense, God is a friend to man.  He that loveth pureness of heart for having graceful lips “the” King shall be his friend.  

[Exposition of the book of Romans #43]

Romans 16:17-27

In this final message of the series, Pastor Sargent focuses on the warning that was given to the churches in Rome (and thus to all Bible-believing Baptist churches). The message looks at the nature of error, a brief overview of the history of error, and the scriptural way for Christians and churches to both avoid and deal with error

John 14:1-3

Not only do we long to see Jesus Christ and to be present with Him, but He desires us to be present with Him.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #05]   

Romans 2:1-16

This passage outlines the principles and processes of by which God will judge man.  Pastor Sargent brings out six facts concerning the judgment of God — that it is based upon the truth of God’s Word; that it is just; that it is universal; that it is impartial; that it will be according to light given; and that it will be searching.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #25]

Romans 9:1-5

Departing from the usual expository form, Pastor Sargent delivers a topical/textual message that challenges the sincerity and convictions of any soul winner. Three essentials for all who would endeavor to lead sinners to Christ are brought out: one, a conviction concerning the true condition of the unsaved that is based on scripture; two, a burden for lost souls that remains unabated; and, three, a love for souls that is Christ-like.

[Exposition of the book of Romans #31]

Romans 11:29

In this topical message, Pastor Sargent examines three areas where the “gifts and calling of God are without repentance.” Beginning with the contextual meaning of the text (as it relates to God’s promises to Israel), the immutability of God is presented in its relationship to the gift and calling of salvation, the gifts of the Spirit, and the call to preach.

Acts 26:1-23

This message contrasts Paul’s commission before and after his conversion, demonstrating how power, purpose, and particulars changed.

Revelation 3:14-18

Previous trials in our lives help us endure future trials.  God has designed trials to purify our faith and to strengthen our faith.  Be thankful looking back and take courage and comfort that God is in control.

James 1:17-22

The grace of God offers the gift of salvation, the faith of man receives it.

Acts 16:1-5

Team ministry is the Biblical model for the work of the Lord — especially so in the field of church-planting evangelism. Paul was sent out by his church in the company of at least one other man from that church — with Barnabas on his first mission, and with Silas on his second.

This message highlights the fact that, while Paul almost always worked with other men in ministry, he often included men from churches other than his home/sending church at Antioch. Pastor Sargent highlights Paul’s purpose in associating with these fellow laborers, and also his place as the “team leader” — paying particular attention to the dynamic of authority.

Acts 20:17-27

Pastor Sargent presents the vision for Bible Baptist Church for the year 2020.  Paul served with an intensity that purposed to serve others.  His pursuit in serving the Lord should be no different than our own.