Matthew 16:13-20

 Throughout history men have had various thoughts and beliefs about who Jesus is.  Some believe he was a great teacher, that he lived when the Bible claims, he started a religious movement, he died via crucifixion.  Some men believe that he was a prophet.  Other men believe that he is a god, but not THE GOD.  Many men, however, like the Apostle Peter, believe that he is the Christ, the Son of the living God.  What does the Bible say about Jesus Christ?  Listen along as Pastor Sargent brings several lines of evidence from the Bible, which shows the Deity of Jesus Christ, that he is God.

Zechariah 11

Listen along as Pastor Sargent continues his series on the visions and prophesies of Zechariah.  Here in chapter 11, the Bible speaks of two different shepherds, one pointing toward Christ who is the good shepherd; and the other idol shepherd pointing toward the anti-Christ.  This prophecy relates to Jews under Roman rule and also points directly to Christ’s betrayal for the cost of 30 pieces of silver.

Zechariah 9-10

Like much of the book of Daniel, this portion of Zechariah was prophetic at the time of its writing, and much of it is still prophetic even today.  The first portion of Chapter 9 speaks of the intertestamental period, where the Greek empire, led by Alexander the Great, rose to power.  The other King is Jesus Christ himself!  Listen and learn some history as Pastor Sargent expounds upon this prophecy and puts it in its historical (as well as future) context.

Revelation 1:18

 The resurrection of the dead is a subject that runs throughout the Bible.  Here in the Book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ, it speaks of Jesus as he that liveth, and was dead.  Jesus Christ’s resurrection can have a great impact on all our lives.  Because of his resurrection our life can have meaning, we can freely serve Jesus Christ.  We can have a joyful life because his resurrection frees us from the fear of death, and the torment that comes with it.  It also gives us a hopeful life.  Those who are saved can expect to be raised with Christ!  Listen along as Pastor Sargent speaks more about what the resurrection means for us.

Psalm 22

The second part of a 2-part message from Psalm 22. Listen along as Pastor Geist concludes his exposition of this unique Psalm. Unlike other Psalms which can be tied to certain events in David's life, the things described in this Psalm point not only to Calvary, but even beyond Calvary and towards Jesus' glorious return!

Psalm 22

Many of the Messianic Psalms penned by King David recount his own experiences while also pointing towards Jesus Christ.  Psalm 22 is unique in that there’s no record of David experiencing the things described in the Psalm; Things such as having his garments parted and casting lots upon them, or having both his hands and his feet pierced.  The first part of a 2-part message, please listen along as Pastor Geist expounds upon Psalm 22 and how it points directly to Calvary.

Zechariah 7:1-14

As the people began to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple, Sherezer and Regemmelech had some questions relating to some of their religious practices.  The practices in question were acts of ritualism not prescribed by the Lord, they were acts that were put in place to commemorate past calamities that had taken place, and they had become routine.  Modern churches and church members can easily fall prey to the same kinds of patterns, such as falling into religious routines or constantly dwelling on past sorrows and mistakes.  Listen as Pastor Sargent picks back up his series on The Visions and Prophecies of Zechariah and gives practical applications on how to avoid falling into the same routines as did those in Zechariah’s time.

Matthew 26:39

The night before Jesus’ crucifixion he went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray.  As he prayed, looking forward to his impending death on the cross, he said in Matthew 26:39 “… O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me…”.  Listen along as Pastor Sargent gives four reasons why it wasn’t possible for the cup to pass, why Jesus Christ had to drink from it and give his life a ransom for many.

John 13:24-25

This is a topical message based on all of the instances of the phrase “one another” in the New Testament.  Listen along as Pastor Sargent fits the usages into 6 different categories and demonstrates from the Bible what it means to be a “one another” church.  Ask yourself, how do you compare as a church member; Are you a “one another” church member?

Acts 20:7

The book of Acts is a historical book that follows that primarily follows two churches, the church at Jerusalem and the church at Antioch.  As a historical book, there are many things we can learn about historical Christians and Christianity.  What was it like to be a Christian in that time?  Listen as Pastor Sargent draws out five characteristics or principles of early Christian life centered on the church at Troas that we can use to compare to our own churches.

Galatians 5:1-18

Throughout the New Testament Epistles, the Christian life is likened unto a race.  It was a race that the churches in Galatia did run well, until they were hindered.  There are many hindrances Christians can encounter throughout life that serve to derail them.  Listen as Pastor Sargent explains some of the dangers that exist, as well as the duties necessary to run successfully, and to live a prosperous Christian life.

Hebrews 11:23-29

The account of Moses’ faith earlier on in his life is a great picture of how our own faith ought to look.  For instance, walking by faith entails a refusing.  As Moses refused to be called the son of Pharoah, likewise we’re called to take up our cross and deny our self.  Walking by faith also involves a reckoning, counting the cost of discipleship.  Moses esteemed the reproach of Christ greater than the treasures of Egypt.  Listen as Pastor Sargent expounds upon the faith of Moses and how it can and does apply to our own faith.

Zechariah 6

The final visions of Zechariah.  The first 8 verses picture four chariots and their riders, which the Bible tells us are spirits going about the earth to execute judgment.  They are a stark reminder that God still has a part in and controls the affairs of humanity.  Following his final vision, verses 9-15, the prophet received some instructions from the word of the LORD.  Listen as Pastor Sargent expands upon these final visions received by the prophet Zechariah.

Isaiah 61:10

Isaiah 61 contains a prophecy that has only been partially fulfilled by Jesus Christ in Luke 4:16-21.  He heals the brokenhearted, deliverance has been preached to the captives, sight has been given to the blind, them that are bruised are set at liberty, and the acceptable year of the Lord is preached.  The second portion is yet to be fulfilled, the day of vengeance of our God.  There is coming a day of vengeance against all ungodliness.  Listen as Pastor Sargent expounds on the many blessings associated with salvation, and the need to be covered with a robe of righteousness when that day comes.

Zechariah 5

Zechariah chapter 5 records the next two visions received by the prophet.  The first vision entails a flying roll.  The second vision is of a woman in a flying Ephah.  The flying roll is the Word of God.  The woman in the Ephah is the embodiment of Wickedness.  Listen as Pastor Sargent expounds upon both the symbolism as well as the interpretation of the visions as they relate to Israel at the time Zechariah received them, while also looking forward toward yet future events.

Matthew 28:16-20

The doctrine of baptism as it relates to the church is pretty clear.  Believers are baptized and added to church membership.  What is less clear is how to clearly apply the doctrine while engaging in mission work.  If a church is an assembly, how can someone be “added” to a body with whom they do not (nor possibly ever will) assemble?  Listen as Pastor Sargent details the doctrine of baptism and church authority, some of the difficulties churches and evangelists may face while ministering in the field, and finally he gives the direction that Bible Baptist Church, Oak Harbor, will move going forward with their various evangelistic endeavors. 

Exodus 27:20

In the book of Exodus, while giving the Israelites instructions for the Tabernacle, the children of Israel were commanded to bring pure olive oil to keep the light burning continually.  God’s word tells us throughout John’s Gospel account that Jesus Christ is the light of the world!  Jesus also said in Matthew 5:14 that, speaking to his disciples, “Ye are the light of the world”, as his light both resonates from within us, and reflects off us much like the moon reflecting the sun’s light.  Listen as Pastor Geist explains how we as Christians can keep our lights burning brightly before men.

Zechariah 4

The fifth vision received by Zechariah involves entails a candlestick and two olive trees.  Listen as Pastor Sargent explains the meaning behind the symbolism making a practical application from the candlestick that highlights the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit as opposed to our own strength.  He also explains the near and far fulfillments of the two olive trees, picturing Zerubbabel and Zechariah at the time the vision was received, but also looking forward to the two witnesses during the Tribulation period.

Hebrews 12:14-29

The third and final installment of Pastor Sargent’s “In It to Win It” series; Here Pastor Sargent speaks about our reward.  Everyone who is running the Christian race is heaven-bound.  Heaven is our ultimate reward!  However, there are other things that we’ll see when we get to the finish line of our race.  Listen as Pastor Sargent elaborates on 8 things that we will see in heaven at the end of the race.

Exodus 15

When we think of Moses, the first thing that comes to mind probably isn’t that of being a musician, and yet Moses was responsible for multiple songs found throughout scripture.  Following the LORD’s victory over Pharoah’s army at the Red Sea Moses led Israel in singing a song about all that the LORD had done in defeating Pharoah.  Listen as Pastor Geist demonstrates how all of the LORD’s feats that they sang about point to his various attributes, and the importance of appropriating the Lord as our personal God.  However, once the music stopped, the nation of Israel began murmuring against the LORD, music doesn’t just affect our attitude, but a general lack of Godly music can have just as much of a negative effect.

Zechariah 3

The fourth vision received by Zechariah involves Joshua the high priest who is clothed with filthy garments, Satan standing at his right hand to resist him, and the Angel of the LORD.  Like the other visions of Zechariah, this has both near and far aspects.  As the high priest, Joshua represents his people, the Israelites, before the LORD, with his filthy garments picturing their backslidden condition.   As a brand being plucked from the fire, the nation was being restored from among the Gentile nations.  Whereas the priest had received new garments from the LORD, there will come a day during the Millennial Kingdom that the nation of Israel will again be redeemed and restored by the LORD.

Hebrews 12:3-13

Running the Christian race isn’t for the faint of heart, there is much rigor involved.  Like training for any other sporting competition, it requires discipline, endurance, and commitment.  Listen along as Pastor Sargent preaches the second part in the “In It to Win It” series where he speaks about our mindset.  If we’re going to successfully run the race, we must keep our mind on Jesus Christ.  Using childrearing as an illustration, the Bible also mentions the Chastening of the Lord— a refining process used to grow us and keep us on the right path.  Expounding upon 5 principles surrounding the disciplining of children, Pastor Sargent also demonstrates the difference between punishment and chastisement.

Zechariah 2

The third vision received by Zechariah involves a man with a measuring line.  The man is tasked with measuring the city of Jerusalem.  Listen as Pastor Sargent expounds upon this third vision and demonstrates, based on its description and the historical record, that it’s primarily dealing with yet future events.

Hebrews 12:1-2

Throughout the New Testament, the Christian experience is likened to a race.  The race is not a sprint, but a marathon that must be run with patience.  The first part in a three-part series by Pastor Sargent, listen as he preaches on what we must do if we want to win the race.  The first thing we must do is to recognize that we’re running a race!  While running, we can find encouragement from those who’ve run before us.  If we want to win, we must also take our race seriously, laying aside anything that would hinder us.  And finally, we must keep our eyes on the Lord Jesus Christ, and allow him to impact and influence our life!

Psalm 24

The second installment in a short series answering the Psalmist’s question, “Who is this King of glory”?  In this message the King of glory is revealed as the Redeemer, the God of our salvation.  In verse 3 the Psalmist asks the rhetorical question, “Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? Or who shall stand in his holy place?”  He then gives a list of qualifiers that none of us can meet.  Despite not being qualified, there’s still hope that we can stand in his holy place thanks to the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Zechariah 1:18-21

The third message in Pastor Sargent’s series on the visions and prophecies of Zechariah, here Pastor Sargent preaches and teaches on the second vision received by the prophet, the vision concerning the four horns and the four carpenters.  Listen along as Pastor Sargent identifies who the four horns are, as well as who the four carpenters are, and how they relate to humanities history as well as its future.

Psalm 29

Psalm 29 begins and ends with the subject of giving.  It begins with the LORD’s people giving unto him, and it ends with him giving unto his people.  The central portion of the Psalm is filled with the voice of the LORD.   Listen as Pastor Geist preaches and teaches through Psalm 29 where we are admonished to give unto the LORD glory & strength, and the glory due unto his name in worship; his voice alone being powerful and full of majesty.  Whereas we can’t outgive God, as he gives his people strength and peace.

Zechariah 1:7-17

The second message in Pastor Sargent’s series on the visions and prophecies of Zechariah, here Pastor Sargent preaches and teaches on the first vision received by the prophet, the vision concerning the riders and horses among the myrtle trees.  Listen as Pastor Sargent identifies the key components of the vision, and though the vision deals primarily with Israel, there are still principles that we can glean from and apply to our own lives as we strive to serve the Lord.

Psalm 19

Many of us are familiar with the opening of Psalm 19, where “the heavens declare the glory of God…”; or the middle where the Psalmist records that the law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul…”.  And though we may often view the Psalm in different sections, the Psalmist wrote and intended it to be one complete song.  Listen as Pastor Geist preaches through the entirety of Psalm 19 and takes us from the heavens to my redeemer.

Psalm 24

In Psalm 24 King David asks the question, “Who is this King of Glory”?  Listen to the first message of a short series seeking to answer that question.  The opening verses of the Psalm point us to the creation, and reveal the King of Glory as the LORD, the Creator of heaven and earth, and all things therein.  It also points toward humanity’s unique creation and his relationship to the Creator.

Zechariah 1:1-6

This is the first message in a series by Pastor Sargent covering the Visions and Prophecies of Zechariah.  Serving as the introduction to the series, Pastor Sargent goes into detail about the context of the book.  He speaks about the human writer, where the book is in relation to other books of the Bible, the impetus for the writing of the book, the time of writing and where it fits with regards to world history and other biblical prophecies, as well as the overall summary of the book.

Psalm 10 begins with some inflammatory language as the Psalmist accuses God being afar off and hiding, and later in the Psalm, the wicked make a strikingly similar claim.  Sometimes we can have that same attitude, especially in times when we’re facing some sort of barrenness in some aspect of our lives, or perhaps when faced with some kind of adversity.  We may begin to think that, because God appears to be silent, he doesn’t hear us.  Listen as Pastor Geist uses three historical accounts to demonstrate that, yes, God hears us!

Psalm 5

The Psalms are full of testimonies and practical applications to us as Christians with regards to our prayer lives.  Using David’s prayer as an example, listen as Pastor Geist teaches how we can make application to our own personal prayers.  From our words to our meditations, our God whom we pray to and our enemies, ultimately ending in the joy we should have in the God of our refuge.

Luke 7:18-30

John the Baptist, spoken of by Jesus as the greatest man born among women, was a second-generation believer, as well as a pillar of faith.  Yet there were times when he had his own doubts and questions.  If a man such as John the Baptist can have questions, how much more so for us?  Listen as Pastor Geist uses an account of John the Baptist to apply in our own lives, whether we have questions ourselves regarding our faith or perhaps someone we know has questions.  Equally important was Jesus’ response when he was asked the question, as well as the response of all who were present.

Luke 10:38-42

The account of Mary and Martha serves as a great example of what can happen if we don’t have our priorities straight as Christians.  It’s easy to get busy serving in ministry and becoming unbalanced, cumbered, and having our attitudes negatively affected as a result.   As Christians, it’s important that we find balance between different aspects of ministry and life, and as we seek balance, the Bible tells us that there is one thing that is needful.  Listen as Pastor Sargent speaks about not only how to prioritize the different aspects of the Christian life, but also the benefits that come from having a proper balance.

I Timothy 1:18-20

There are several dangers that the Apostle Paul warns Timothy throughout his first epistle.  In I Timothy 1:19 he warns about making shipwreck concerning faith.  Proper navigation requires at least two tools, a chart and a compass.  Listen as Pastor Sargent gives two crucial tools that Christians need to employ that they may avoid making a shipwreck of their own faith.

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Psalm 71:18

Pastor Sargent unveils the vision God has given him for Bible Baptist Church, moving forward.  Having just celebrated a major milestone in its 50^th anniversary, the vision for the church looks forward to the next 25 years and centers around 3 big decisions.  The first is to not have a “usual”/routine year.  Looking at church demographics, moving forward there will be a focus for the older generation to train and mentor the younger generation.  The second big decision involves Pastor Sargent’s retirement from the ministry over the next few years.  The Final big decision involves adding a second pastor to the church to take over for Pastor Sargent.

Philippians

What does it mean to “want”?  It could mean to covet or desire; such was the attitude of most of the inhabitants of the city of Philippi.  It can also mean to lack or go without.  Listen as Pastor Geist gives three examples, not only of those who were wanting, but those who did so willingly.  Thanks to the sacrificial giving of the church unto Paul, the church at Thessalonica was started.  The Apostle Paul was also willing to want, not only financially but also regarding his freedom.  And of course, Jesus Christ being the ultimate example of what it means to be willing to want, as he left heaven and all his glory to die a shameful death on the cross.

Psalm 71:1-12

Psalm 71 was penned by a man who displayed faith throughout his life, from the time of his youth up until he was old, and gray headed. The Bible is full of examples of people whose faith has increased through their experiences, people who were strong of faith, full of faith, and it even has examples of people who were weak in faith. Listen as Pastor Sargent brings several points relating to a lifetime of faith.

Nehemiah 1

Nehemiah’s prayer is a great example of faith, and one from which we may learn a lot.  He was truly burdened for Jerusalem.  He directed his prayer to the God of heaven and not some secular king or ruler.  He confessed the sins of his people.  He prayed according to God’s and what God had said about the land.  His motive was one of God’s glory and magnification, and it was a prayer of patience— spending months praying to God for the land of his people.

Luke 2:13-14

It’s traditional to sing Christmas songs during the Christmas season.  The world has a plethora of Christmas music running a gamut of different subjects.  Though many revolve around the birth of Jesus Christ not all are biblical or theologically sound.  There are some men who steadfast refuse to sing Christmas songs during the Christmas season.  Listen as Pastor Sargent lists several examples as to why we should sing about the birth of Christ!

Acts 27

After being arrested in Jerusalem the Apostle Paul appealed his case to Caesar.  He found himself on a ship that had charted a course from Jerusalem to Rome.  Unfortunately, mistakes were made, there was a shipwreck, and the passengers and crew found themselves as castaways on the Island of Malta.  Listen as Pastor Geist leans on years of experience as a flight navigator in the U.S. Navy , using real-world experiences and examples, compares and contrasts his own experiences with the Biblical narrative to bring about certain principles that Bible Baptist Church can glean from as it charts a course for the future of the church.

Acts 16:1-12

Though we may find ourselves in what may appear to be less than ideal circumstances, God is still able to get victory.  Such was the case in the life of Timothy, whose parents were “unequally yoked”, as well as the Apostle Paul’s evangelistic team.   Paul was very evangelistically focused, and his desire was to carry out the great commission.  However, when he endeavored to enter into Asia to preach the Gospel, the Spirit suffered him not.  God had other plans.  Instead, Paul received a vision to enter into Macedonia, which the rest of his team supported, so they endeavored to enter into Europe.  In doing so, not only did the Gospel spread throughout eastern Europe, but it had also spread throughout Asia as well!   Sometimes we can run into those same circumstances, where our hearts desire is to do a good thing, but God inhibits us because he has other plans.  And though we may not understand how the Lord is working and view our circumstances as less than ideal, we can have full assurance that the Lord is faithful, and if we are faithful, he is able to get a good victory throughout our circumstances.

Acts 15:22-34

The Bible mentions various men and offices related to the church.  The speaks about the offices of Pastor and Deacon.  It mentions evangelists and teachers.  Here in Acts 15 the Bible also speaks of chief men.  What is it that makes a “chief man”?  Listen and learn as Pastor Sargent lists 7 qualities of a chief man in the church.

Acts 15:22-35

Making decisions is a part of life under the sun, whether saved or lost.  Some decisions are of minor importance, others are much more major.  As Christians, however, we want to make sure that the decisions we make are in line with God’s will for our lives.  God’s word provides various indicators that the decisions we make are in line with his will, whether the decision is for an individual, or whether it’s corporate— affecting the whole church.  Listen and learn more about how you can have confidence that decisions made are in line with God’s will.

Acts 12:1-11

The Apostle Peter experienced many spiritual highs and lows, and God was able to deliver him.  Many of the things Peter experienced can apply to us, and there’s much that we can glean from Peter’s experiences.  Peter was a target of Satan, and Satan used Herod to vex, kill, and imprison believers.  After being imprisoned, Peter was awoken by a spiritual messenger who smote him and raised him up.  Like Peter, we can also find ourselves deeply slumbering in a darkened prison, in need of light, perhaps being smote, and raised up.  Even after Peter was loosed from his shackles he was still in prison.  To escape, the Apostle still needed to gird himself, bind his sandals on his feet, cast on his garment and then follow the angel.

I Timothy 3:16

The term “godliness” shows up 15-times throughout scripture.  The Apostle Paul referred to it as a “mystery” when he penned the book of First Timothy.  Listen and learn more about the subject of godliness.  From the Bible, we’ll try to define what godliness is and speak about various attributes related to godliness, including its preference, profitability, and perversion.

John 13:36-14:1

The Apostle Peter failed Christ in the Flesh, and had a troubled heart.  If someone such as Peter can fail, how much more can we?  Praise God that he gives us the remedy for a troubled heart!  It begins with God!  God is merciful, forgiving, loving, and strives to reconcile man to himself.  The God of the Old Testament is the same God of the New Testament, there is one God.  Jesus Christ is God!  He’s the same merciful, forgiving, loving God who seeks to reconcile men to himself!  Listen and learn more about God’s remedy for troubled hearts.

Luke 9:57-62

The process of ploughing (or tilling) has been around as long as agriculture; It’s a part of sin’s curse recorded in Genesis 3:23, as well as Cain’s trade in Genesis 4:2.  It’s also a necessary component of farming.  If men want to reap a harvest, they must first plough the field.  Learn more about the purpose, procedure, and prospect of ploughing.

Mark 10:17-27

Many times, as Christians, we can have a wrong attitude toward others that “they’ll never get saved”.  We say or think things like, “They’re too self-righteous, too hard hearted, too ________”, so we write them off, “it’s impossible....”  If we want to see God do the impossible, and redeem the irredeemable, then there are certain keys we must use.  We must put ourselves in their shoes & view life without Christ, and we must view them through the eyes of Christ.  We must love them as Jesus loves them.  Also, we must help guide them to a saving knowledge of Christ.

Daniel 1:19-2:23

As U.S. citizens, we do have certain rights and privileges that we should exercise as the Apostle Paul exercised his rights as a Roman citizen.  With every election cycle often comes anxiety as people listen to, and put their faith in, various political pundits.  What should be our attitudes and actions surrounding our nations election cycles?  We should adopt the attitude of Daniel and his companions.  We should put our focus on God and pray.  We should seek his word and take solace in it instead of our own feelings and emotions, and we need to praise him for his sovereignty, because it is ultimately, he who establishes and removes kings and kingdoms.  We must also pray for all those whom he has put in places of authority.

Psalm 1

Most people want to receive blessings from God.  Unfortunately, many don’t know how to receive or recognize the blessings of God.  It begins by receiving the greatest blessing of all, the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Please listen and learn more as Brother Josh speaks from the Bible about how to be blessed by God, how to recognize Godly blessings, as well as the detriments of ungodly living.

Isaiah 55

Why, throughout our lives, do we spend so much of our time, energy, thoughts, and finances on things that don’t satisfy?  God has called us to seek after those things which do satisfy— namely hope in the resurrection!  It’s a call that’s open to all men.  If we’re willing to seek after him, rather than constantly seeking after things that don’t truly satisfy, God offers us a pardon for all our sins and iniquities— no matter how terrible and unforgiving we think they may be.

Proverbs 30:29-31

The Proverbs are full of wisdom and reveal much about both God and man.  Listen as Pastor Sargent takes a list of four things mentioned in Proverbs: Lion, Greyhound, He-Goat, & King, and applies the example they set to our Christian Walk.  

Romans 2:1-16

When it comes to God’s judgment, the Bible lays out certain principles.  For instance: God’s judgment will be according to the truth he’s revealed in his word, and not according to the imaginations of man; God’s judgment will also be a universal judgment, encompassing all men, both saved and lost.  Listen as Pastor Sargent expounds upon several principles that the Bible reveals about the judgment of God.

I Thessalonians 2:13-20

Satan doesn’t like seeing people saved.  Any time the Gospel is preached, there is sure to be opposition.  The Apostle Paul came up against many and varied oppositions during his evangelistic journeys.  Through the years, nothing has changed.  Today, as churches send evangelists to preach God’s word, they’re sure come against the same kinds of opposition that the Apostle Paul experienced. Though doing the Lord’s work is hard going, there are still many victories that we can take part in.

Luke 22:31

Jesus warned Peter that Satan wanted to sift him like wheat.  While the process may be difficult and painful, God is still able to use it to our benefit both to prove us as well as prepare us.  We can also have hope that all he can do is sift, he’ll never be able to pry us away from Christ.  Learn more about how Satan can sift the Lord’s servant, and how God can use it for our benefit.

II Timothy 2:3

This is the 8^th and final installment of Pastor Sargent’s “The Effective Servant of Christ” series.  Serving Christ is not always easy, there are bound to be struggles and setbacks.  In this final installment, Pastor Sargent lists three areas where servant’s can and do struggle, and with each area of adversity he also gives a solution!

I Timothy 4:12

As Pastor Sargent continues preaching and teaching through his, “The Effective Servant of Christ” series, he speaks about the importance of the servant’s testimony.  If a servant is to be effective, they must hold themselves to a Godly standard of living throughout many aspects of their life.  Listen and learn more about the kind of example an effective servant must set before God and before men.

II Timothy 2:24-26

In this installment of Pastor Sargent’s “The Effective Servant of Christ” series, he expounds on certain qualities and characteristics that an effective servant must have.  They must have the spirit of a servant.  They must have a correct attitude.  They also must be apt to teach and able to instruct.

The major theme of the epistle of I Peter is to give hope amid various trials, tribulations, and tests of faith. Hear more about what the Bible has to say about the hope we can have, including: Some of the reasons we have hope, kinds of things we’re to hope for; and where our hope ultimately resides.

Luke 15:1-7

In this installment of Pastor Sargent’s, “The Effective Servant of Christ” series, he speaks about how an effective servant of Christ must have a heart for people.  It involves having an active part in their life which may require self-sacrifice.  Watch and listen as Pastor Sargent lists several character attributes required for becoming a loving, effective servant of Christ.

John 19:28-30

“It is finished” were the last recorded words of Christ on the cross before yielding up the ghost.  With that declaration, everything was complete in order that we can obtain redemption through Christ and his shed blood.  With those words, there is no more work that needs to be done for us to receive salvation! 

Luke 9:57-62

What are your criteria for following Jesus compared to his?  Pastor Geist invites us to step into the shoes of four kinds of men represented in this portion of scripture: 1) A Certain Man, 2) The Son of Man, 3) Another Man, 4) No Man and to compare ourselves to them.  A certain man said he would follow Jesus, but didn’t follow through.  Another man said he would follow, but not before taking care of his own desires first.  No man began to labor but looked back which inhibited his ability to continue effectively moving forward.  The Son of Man sacrificed protection and permanence for the service of the LORD.  How do we compare ourselves to them in our own service to the Lord?

John 15:1-8

What does it mean to be effective?  Is effectiveness measured in numbers, such as church membership or souls led to the Lord?  In this installment of Pastor Sargent’s “The Effective Servant of Christ” series, he goes into detail about how the Bible defines what it means to be effective, and teaches on five points of what it takes to be an effective teacher.

I Peter 4:10-11

This is the third installment of Pastor Sargent’s “The Effective Servant of Christ” series.  In this installment Pastor Sargent preaches on the use and purpose of spiritual gifts.  Christ gifts his servants with a variety of spiritual gifts for a purpose.  In this installment, Pastor Sargent teaches on six key points regarding spiritual gifts as we serve the Lord, because being an effective servant of Jesus Christ requires knowledge and discernment in exercising their God-given spiritual gift.

Acts 2:42-43

To be an effective servant of the Lord, we must be grounded in our salvation and motivated by love.  Beyond that, effective servants of Christ must be established in the basic disciplines of Christian living.  In this installment of Pastor Sargent’s “The Effective Servant of Christ” series, Pastor Sargent brings out five specific disciplines of Christian living that we must be established in, if we want to be effective servants of Christ.

I Peter 3:8-22

Righteous living doesn’t guarantee Christians a life free from suffering.  In fact, if we’re living for the Lord, suffering for righteousness is something we will endure at some point.  Thankfully God has given us an exhortation on how we can be happy and joyous in spite of our suffering with Jesus Christ as both our hope and our ensample.  

I Thessalonians 1:1-10

The church at Thessalonica was a relatively young church when the Apostle Paul penned his first epistle addressed to them, yet they were able to accomplish many great things in such a short span of time.  Throughout the epistles that he penned; Paul mentions the names of men who co-labored with him that were from Thessalonica.  In the first message of a series about how to serve the Living and True God, Pastor Sargent speaks about what was it that made these men, and others from the church so effective.  First and foremost, an effective servant must have a solid platform on which to stand; They must be sure of their standing in Christ!

I Timothy 3:14-15

As members of a New Testament Church, our testimony is important.  Our conduct should revolve around the Word.  The Word made flesh: Jesus Christ being our head as a church body and our ensample as believers.  The Word taught: Sound doctrine and “rightly dividing the word of truth” will help inform us how we ought to conduct ourselves.  And the Word applied: With Christ as our ensample and knowing sound doctrine, we must strive to make application in our lives.  It is through the pre-eminence of the word and proper application that we can behave ourselves with charity, pure hearts, and faith unfeigned.

I Kings 18:17-40

When sound doctrine is compromised, a decline in morality & holiness is sure to follow; when morality declines, totalitarianism follows.  Our society has many beliefs that are contrary to the bible, yet many Christians today try to hold on to contradictory beliefs.  Never discredit or underestimate the impact of taking a stand for Christ!  Elijah took a stand and made an impact.  If we want to take an open stand for God, we must first have an experiential relationship with him.  God’s word doesn’t halt between two opinions, neither should we!  

I Peter 4:7-11

The Bible reveals many things to us.  One of the things it reveals is that in the latter day’s peoples’ faith will become increasingly colder, which is evidenced by overall lower church attendance.  It appears that men today aren’t as on fire for the Lord as they once were.  There are certain markers we can use to see if someone is on fire for the Lord: 1) They are fervent in prayer; 2) They are fervent in Charity; and 3) they are fervent in spirit.  If the Lord were to take your spiritual temperature, what would it be?

I Kings 18:1-16

Obadiah could be considered a “secret disciple”. He was a governor of the King’s house but didn’t take a stand when his master went into idolatry. Two characteristics of a secret disciple are: 1) They are silent with their testimony, unwilling to openly stand for the Lord; and 2) They are fearful over duty. Unfortunately, being a secret disciple also has consequences. Some consequences of being a secret disciple are: 1) Being unwittingly complicit in wickedness; 2) A loss of respect among peers; and 3) Missing out on blessings. How open are we with our faith? How many Christians today are themselves “secret disciples”?

Luke 5:1-11

A lot can be said about modern day disciples when compared with those in this passage of scripture.  The crowds were eager and enthusiastic to hear God’s word, they made it a priority.  They were willing to obey him, even though they were weary from toiling all night, and yet the Lord blessed their willingness and sacrifice.  They also answered the Lord’s call when he called them to serve him, and he did many wonderful things with their lives.  He can use us to do many wonderful things as well if we’re willing to make serving him a priority in our lives.

II Peter 2:1-9

Many Christians today can relate to, and learn from Abraham’s nephew, Lot.  He was created the same as everyone else, as a tripartite being with a soul.  Lot’s soul was greatly influenced by the things he both saw and heard, his soul was vexed, his decisions were influenced, and even his family were affected.  Likewise, the things that have the greatest influence on us are the things we both see and hear.  Exactly how much influence they wield is dependent on our response to them.  God knows how to deliver us from temptations, but what is our response to the things that we see and hear?

I Corinthians 1:26-31

King David had many failures recorded in scripture.  He failed in the matter of Uriah the Hittite, and everything connected to it.  He had failures as a parent, and he had failures as a king.  Despite David’s shortcomings, God was still able to use him to his honor and glory.  Likewise, God can still use us despite our own failures and short comings.

I Thessalonians 4:13-5:11

The Millennial Kingdom is a prominent subject related to Bible prophecy.  Another prominent subject is Christ’s return, and the rapture of the Saints.  How we approach the Bible will influence our understanding about Christ’s return.  Learn about why we believe in a pretribulation rapture in this installment of Pastor Sargent’s “Why We Believe…” series.

Daniel 2:31-45

How we approach the Bible will undoubtedly influence how we understand the Bible.  Do we approach it allegorically?  Or do we receive it historically and grammatically?  There is no shortage of different beliefs in Christendom when it comes to Christ’s return, and the millennial Kingdom of God.  Learn why we believe the Bible teaches in a premillennial return of Christ in this installment of the “Why We Believe…” series.

Ecclesiastes 12:1

As our little children grow into youths, undoubtedly changes will take place.  Being tripartite creatures created in God’s image and likeness, they’ll change physically, spiritually, as well as emotionally and intellectually.  Learn how to minister to each part of your youth as they develop, and Lord willing help guide them into being saved and surrendered, serving the Lord.

Matthew 16:13-20

When it comes to the church, there are many different beliefs in circulation!  Some people believe there’s one universal church, perpetuated through apostolic succession.  Others believe the “true” church disappeared during the Dark Ages and was reconstituted by the Reformation.  Learn about what the Bible has to say about church perpetuity, as well as how history attests to it in this installment of Pastor Sargent’s “Why We Believe…” series.

Matthew 21:23-27

When it comes to the ordinance of baptism, there are many different beliefs in circulation.  Learn about what the Bible has to say about baptism including: the proper candidate(s), the meaning behind it, and of course upon what authority it’s administered, in this installment of Pastor Sargent’s “Why We Believe…” series.

Romans 8:28-39

There are some Christian circles who don’t believe men can have eternal security; However, there are many reasons for us to believe with confidence that we are saved and eternally secure.  Our confidence in eternal security is grounded upon who God is, and what he’s revealed to us in his word.  Learn more about why we believe in the eternal security of the believer in this installment of Pastor Sargent’s “Why…” series!

I John 5:4-15

Many Christians can and do have doubts about their salvation and eternal security.  Learn about some of the reasons why people may have doubts, as well as how to replace them with assurance.  Neither our salvation nor assurance are based upon feelings; Assurance of our salvation is based upon God’s word, and it’s testified by his Spirit.  Learn more about how you can have assurance of salvation!

Hebrews 10:1-18

There are many reasons why we believe salvation can only be received through the blood of Jesus!  It is only through his blood that we can be cleansed from and receive remission of sins.  Learn about just how important and special the blood of Christ truly is in this installment of Pastor Sargent’s “Why we believe…” series!

Ecclesiastes 7:8

At some point we all struggle with having patience as well as with pride.  There is a connection between the two observed through human experience.  Patience entails an attitude of humility, whereas impatience entails an attitude of Pride.  King Solomon also made the connection between patience and pride.  Learn more about the connection and how we can properly apply it in our own lives.

Psalm 68:11

The Bible tells us that God has promised to preserve his words forever.  There are many reasons to believe the King James Bible fulfills that promise in the English tongue, two of which are the texts it’s translated from, and the translators themselves.  Learn more about the history and translation of the King James Bible!

Proverbs 22:24-25, 11:9

The Bible has a lot to say about the subjects of anger and hypocrisy.  They’re very real and can influence us, our decisions, as well as having an influence on our relationships with others.  Much of what it says about anger and hypocrisy comes in the form of warnings.  We’re not without hope, though.  The Bible also gives wisdom in how to deal with them.Video

II Tim 3:10-17

There are many reasons to believe the Bible is truly the word of God.  Among these are: Its supernatural origin; Its Divine Preservation; and the Power that it has to save souls and change lives.

Hebrews 11:1-6

All men are created with an intuitive knowledge of God.  There are different ways our knowledge of God may be developed: Through reason, through [special] revelation, and through reality/personal experience.  Pastor Sargent gives seven lines of reasoning to help us develop our belief in why we believe God exists.

Proverbs 23:26

The Bible tells us to have all things be done decently and in order.  When it comes to matters of the heart, fathers are implored to first give their hearts to their children and in response the children are to give their hearts to their father.  The Bible says that we love God because he first loved us, so God the Father has given us his heart, in response have we given him ours?  Does us giving God our heart manifest in the same way as David, a man after God’s own heart?

I Corinthians 16:21-24

Anathema Maranatha are two powerful Biblical words not translated into English, which the Apostle Paul used when concluding his first epistle to the church at Corinth.  Anathema serves as a warning to the church not to be led astray from the simplicity of the Gospel.  Maranatha is an exclamation that the Lord is coming or will come!

II Samuel 13:1-15

Satan is not our friend: He ruins relationships, he doesn’t care about death caused by inciting sin, and he’s not a servant of the king.  Satan often works through people, one of the men he used was King David’s nephew Jonadab.  Learn how to recognize Satan’s devices & be fit to fight against them.  The Devil can be defeated!

Psalm 25:1-22

This passage of scripture mentions three kinds of people who the LORD teaches:  Sinners, of whom we all are; The meek, which have an attitude of selflessness & merciful intercession; and those who fear the LORD.  Do we display these same attitudes and attributes?

I Corinthians 16:10-20

The Great Commission wasn’t given to a single person; ministry is a team effort.  The Apostle Paul was able to accomplish much for the Lord because he had a great support network, and always took the time to give credit to the men and women who co-labored with him in his ministry.

I Corinthians 16:5-9

The Apostle Paul had plans to visit the church at Corinth, but God had other plans.  He received an open door to preach the Gospel at Ephesus; as with any opportunity, opposition soon follows.

I Corinthians 15:1-24

First Corinthians, Chapter 15 is known as the “Resurrection Chapter” in the Bible.  It gives great insight into the two resurrections that unfolds through the scriptures. 

Matthew 20:20-28

The mother of Zebedee’s children came to Jesus to make a request.  In her we see her as a devoted woman of great faith.  Her devotion to Jesus Christ and her desire for her sons was evident in her life.

Psalm 73

This rhetorical question is answered by seeing God’s abundant goodness through key points such as going to His sanctuary, acknowledging His presence, choosing His guiding counsel over self-reason and worldly wisdom, and commit to zero substitutes for His goodness.  The psalmist concludes to draw near to God, to trust in the refuge of the Lord God, and to declare all of God’s goodness. 

I Peter 1:1-9

The treasure of salvation is revealed the moment we, as believers, enter into eternity. The doctrine of salvation is important, as seen in Sanctification, Regeneration, Adoption, and Purification.  

II Chronicles 25:1-2

King Amaziah did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, but not with a perfect heart.  Just doing things is not enough, your heart must be in it.  How do you live out your life for Christ. . . consistently or inconsistently?

John 3:1-8

As Nicodemus came to Jesus by night, Jesus gave the great imperative: “ye must be born again.”  That message is the most important and essential message ever presented and is relevant for us today.

I Corinthians 14:26-40

The gift of tongues refers to an ability to speak in a foreign language without having been trained.  Tongues were given for a sign for unbelieving Jews.

Mark 5:1-20

The miracle where Jesus delivers the man with an unclean spirit in the country of the Gadarenes.  This miracle is a stark picture of the human condition and the power of Jesus Christ to deliver.  The converted man had a passion to reach others through a changed life.

Luke 11:1-13

Jesus taught the disciples to pray via a Pattern, a Parable, and with a Point.

I Corinthians 14:1-9

The days of fore-telling has ceased and today we are to be forth-telling.  In this message preaching (prophesying) is Defined, Detailed, Delivered, and Demanded. 

Judges 2:10

Will our next generation love God?  If so, how?  In this message observations and applications from the text challenges us to see the next generation arise, follow, and love God.

II Timothy 2:1-14

The Second Chapter of Second Timothy expresses six different metaphors for the kind of person God can use in His service.  Specifically presented in this message is the Recruitment, Readying, and Reliance of those whom serve the Lord faithfully.

Matthew 28:11-15

One of the theories about Christ’s resurrection is that He didn’t rise from the dead, but that His body was taken.  This message refutes that theory based upon the canon of Scripture.

Matthew 26:17-30

As Jesus met in an upper room with His disciples, the First Supper was instituted as a remembrance of His body which was broken for us and His blood that was shed for us for the remission of sins.

Hebrews 9:19-28

The Old Testament was dedicated with the blood of calves and goats, but the New Testament was established by the blood of Jesus Christ.  The continual sacrifice in the Old Testament could never take away sins, only cover them, whereas the blood of Jesus Christ gives us eternal redemption.

Ephesians 5:15-19

God wants to hear you sing psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs.  This message looks at music personally within your heart, corporately one with another and to another, and worshipfully unto the Lord.  Music plays a role in your life as a spirit-filled Christian.

I Corinthians 13:8-13

The continuance of certain Spiritual gifts is a controversial subject in religious circles today.  Through the scriptures is seen that the gift of speaking in tongues have ceased for today.

I Corinthians 13:4-7

Love is to be self-sacrificing and unconditional, just as God’s love is for us.  Our exercise of Spiritual gifts must be controlled by the fruit of the spirit.

I Corinthians 12:27-13:3

Ataxia, a serious neurological disorder, causes uncoordinated movements within the human body.  Similarly, Spiritual ataxia results when a church is fractured, divided, and lacks unity.

Psalm 3

As David fled from his son Absalon he knew the only one to turn to for deliverance was the LORD.  In Psalm 3 is seen David’s troubles, transition, and testimony.

I Corinthians 12:13

Today many Christians, and churches, use First Corinthians, Chapter 12, Verse 13 as their ‘Proof Text’ for the universal, mystical, Body of Christ “Church” theory.  This message  gives a Biblical refutation of such false doctrine.

I Corinthians 12:1-11

The Apostle Paul addressed the general decorum of spiritual gifts.  The problem in the church of Corinth was that of comparison between members concerning their spiritual gifts.  If not careful, the same could happen in your own church.

Ephesians 1:1-14

A platform in the sense that of something on which someone stands, gives a place of oversight and authority.  The Christian’s platform is their standing (condition of life) and state (living for Christ).

Colossians 3:1-3

Being mentally and spiritual solid and stable is possible by having confidence in God’s promises.  A heavenly hope is to be fruitful in the life of believers.  We are to be full of heavenly hope instead of worldly wishfulness.

Leviticus 13 & 14

The law of leprosy is to teach when it is unclean and when it is clean.  Observations related to leprosy and sin require an examination, determination, proclamation, and a regulation.

I Corinthians 11:1,2,17-25

The ordinance of the Lord’s Table has been a divisive doctrinal issue throughout Christendom.  Today’s message demonstrates from scripture the Biblical means of participating in the Lord’s Table.

Exodus 28 & 32

The contrast between the fashion of Aaron’s priestly garments and his fashioning of the golden calf can be instructive to us today.  Does your prescribed fashion (how the Lord tells you to dress, to act, to converse, and to live in this world) align with what we might be fashioning as idols in our lives today?

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Exodus 5

The historical conversation between Pharoah and Moses parallels what we should see today, resistance from captivity to say: “let my people go that they may serve me.”  Israel’s purpose was to serve the Lord, as so it is for Christians today, to serve the Lord.  We see Pharoah’s compromises [calculations] regarding letting the people go.

I Corinthians 10:13

God does not want any Christian to be rendered useless for the work He has called them to do.  The devil tries to rob you of a good testimony and will try to derail you and keep you on the sidelines.  God has given us a great promise of victory.

I Corinthians 10:31-33

First Corinthians, Chapter 10, Verse 32 highlights some divisions that are found in the prophetic word (future events).  Bible study is different than reading, meditation, or memorization. This verse is key if we are to understand the Bible prophecies concerning things to come.  

Genesis 48

The Lord’s leading brings great comfort in the days when we feel needful, rudderless, overrun with life, facing major decisions, afraid, or vulnerable.   Shepherding is exemplified by God and seen the life of Moses, pastors, and parents.

Luke 13:22-30

Jesus was asked the question, “Are there few that be saved?”  There are five propositions posed in response to the question: (1) All may be saved, (2) All will not be saved, (3) Some will be saved who weren’t expected to be saved, (4) Some will not be saved who expected to be saved, and (5) No one will be saved except in God’s declared way.

I Corinthians 10:1-13

The Apostle Paul warned the church in Corinth not to engage in idolatry.  In this message Pastor Sargent addresses the “borderline Christian.”

Matthew 18:11-14

The singular mission of Jesus Christ was to reach the lost.  The singular mission of His churches is the same. . . to reach the lost.

Exodus 18:1-24

Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, gave Moses great advice concerning delegation.  This had a great impact on Moses’ life and ministry.

I Thessalonians 1:1-10

Paul was concerned about the condition of the church in Corinth.  He pointed out to them the characteristics of a steadfast and faithful church member.

I Corinthians 9:24-27

The Apostle Paul expressed several “fears” concerning others and himself.  Paul’s desire was to not be a castaway.  To be a castaway is to be useless in service to the Lord.  What causes Christians to be castaway?  How can you avoid becoming a castaway?  This message answers those questions.

I Corinthians 9:1-14

The Apostle Paul used himself as an example as a minister of Christ in the principle of putting others before self.  This scripture also teaches the principle of a preacher to be remunerated and the principle of payment.

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Ephesians 5:18-6:9

Submission to authority is the foundation of the Christian live, bathed in love.  In this message is brought out that submission is spiritual, love is commanded, and to love is to submit.