Truth & Reason » Audio

Excelling in Loving One Another

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 16:00:10 +0000

[John 13:34, 35; 1st Thess. 4:9, 10]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue this series on Excelling Still More, let us once again make sure our aim is to honestly examine ourselves to see if we are truly doing the best that we can do for the Lord, and the most that we can do for the Lord; let us be willing to accept the exposure of… Continue reading

The Death of Jesus

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 00:00:55 +0000

A Look Back on the Life of the Apostle Paul

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 16:00:31 +0000

[2nd Timothy 4:6-8]

INTRODUCTION A. The apostle Paul is one of the most well-known figures in the New Testament, and the one who wrote the biggest portion of it, by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. But, true to his normal conduct, he spends the majority of his writing pointing the brethren to Christ and the conduct they should exhibit as they strive to be more like Him… Continue reading

Ephesians: The Disciples We Must Be

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:00:13 +0000

[Ephesians 4:17-32]

INTRODUCTION A. It has been said that the first half of this letter to the Ephesian Christians might be described as ‘What We Have In Christ', while the second half is ‘What We Are In Christ.' As we continue our study this morning, we will look at parts of chapter 4 in which the apostle Paul gives to these Ephesian brethren a description of The Disciples… Continue reading

Excelling In Knowing & Understanding God’s Word

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 16:00:53 +0000

[2nd Peter 3:18]

Psalm 66: Blessed By God

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:55 +0000

INTRODUCTION A. In the opening chapter of Paul's letter to the Philippian brethren, he exhorted them to so live as to be worthy servants and disciples of Christ, stand fast and work together, and not be afraid of those who opposed them because, as he went on to say, "It has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in Him… Continue reading

To Live is , To Die is

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 16:00:16 +0000

[Philippians 1:21]

INTRODUCTION

What is it mean that you've been granted another day of life? What would it mean to you if you knew you would die tomorrow?
The answer to these questions will say a lot about you and your commitment to spiritual matters.
This morning let's consider for a few moments the meaning of life and of death.

TO LIVE IS ____

THE PURSUIT OF PLEASURE?
1. Many seek a life

The Uncommon Among the Common

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:48 +0000

[Mark 12:37]

INTRODUCTION A. From the beginning of the Lord's church, the majority of those who have come to Him in humble obedience were of humble surroundings themselves. The apostle Paul, when writing to the Corinthian brethren, reminded them, "For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called" (1st Cor. 1:26). Since the church began… Continue reading

Excelling In Seeking the Lost

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 16:00:39 +0000

[Luke 19:10]

INTRODUCTION A. As we begin to get into this series on Excelling Still More, it is my hope that we will honestly examine ourselves to see if we are truly doing the best that we can do for the Lord, and the most that we can do for the Lord; I also hope that we will be willing to accept the criticisms and exposure… Continue reading

Since You Know, Beware & Grow

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:51 +0000

[2 Peter 3:17-18]

INTRODUCTION

Tonight we are going to look at a summary of the book of 2nd Peter by examining the last two verses.

SINCE YOU KNOW ...

THE DAY OF THE LORD IS COMING (3:10-14)
1. We look for new heavens and a new earth. We have a unique perspective about the importance of this life, knowing that everything will eventually be destroyed by intense fire. "But the day

A Church with No Problems

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 16:00:03 +0000

[Philippians]

INTRODUCTION

The letters of Paul to various churches are almost always a mixture of lovingkindness and sharp rebuke.
This morning we are going to consider one of Paul's letters that contained no words of criticism or rebuke. Instead this letter was one filled with joy and gladness, allowing Paul to focus on the positive aspects of the gospel and their good character before God.
The church: Philippi
Let's take a

Man’s Perception vs. God’s Reality

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 00:00:21 +0000

Everyone Wants Better

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 16:00:27 +0000

INTRODUCTION

According to Jonathan Fields, people want:
1. a better economy, but nobody's willing to share in the financial hit it'll take to get us back on track.
2. better schools, but nobody wants to rock the system, the unions, the teachers, the role of parents.
3. lower health care costs, but nobody wants to endure the changes to medicine, law and bureaucracy it'll take to get it.
4. lower insurance, but nobody wants to adopt the changes in

Rich in this Present Age

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:00:34 +0000

[1 Timothy 6:17-19]

Verse 17

"COMMAND"
1. This is not an option, it's an order. "Instruct" (NASB) "Charge" (KJV / ESV) -- This is not the language of suggestion or personal choice, this is a matter of salvation!
2. The same Greek word used when Jesus commanded the unclean spirit out of a man. "For He had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man..." (Luke 8:29). A word used

Excelling in Prayer

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 16:00:07 +0000

[1 Thessalonians 4:10]

INTRODUCTION

One of Jesus' disciples asked, "Lord, teach us to pray ..." (Luke 11:1). Why would he ask this? Didn't they know how to pray from the examples of those in the Old Testament? The disciples wanted to be better! They recognized the great power that Jesus had and wanted to know how He addressed God in prayer.
Every disciple can pray, a privilege open to

Psalm 14: The Man Without God

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:38 +0000

INTRODUCTION A. More and more nowadays, there are those who will try very hard to deny the existence of God, and are becoming more vocal in their claims and denials. As had always been the case, though, the number of men who accept that God is, and that he is the only true and living God is small, in comparison to the whole population of mankind. We are… Continue reading

Closer to the Fire

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 16:00:27 +0000

[Luke 22:54-62]

INTRODUCTION A. It seems that many young people today like to 'play with fire,' as we say. Many teenagers love riding skateboards without any helmet or pads, thinking they won't get hurt; they assume that the 25-50,000 injuries that happen to children aged 5-14 each year will be someone else. But the disposition to 'play with fire' is not reserved for young folks; despite the evidence… Continue reading

What Shall We Do With the Gospel?

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 00:00:59 +0000

[Philippians 1]

INTRODUCTION A. Within the book of Philippians, we find the apostle Paul writing to his fellow believers with a great joy even as he wrote from prison because of his work for the Lord. Fifteen times within this letter, he wrote of his joy and the need to rejoice, even as he suffered for the sake of Christ. And he wrote of the joy that he… Continue reading

Excelling Still More

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 16:00:04 +0000

[1st Thessalonians 3:12; 4:1; 4:9, 10]

INTRODUCTION A. I am sure that most - if not all - of us, appreciate excellence. We may not even recognize it in many things we see, hear, or do because the manner in which some things are done - because they are done with excellence - are simply enjoyed and appreciated without thinking about why we enjoy it so much. If… Continue reading

The Basics of the Gospel

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 00:00:25 +0000

Having True Joy

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 16:00:50 +0000

[Romans 12:12]

INTRODUCTION A. I suppose that we all have known or met fellow Christians who seem to go through life looking like they were "weaned on a sour pickle" or were useless for any good work when things were going rough for them; they have a sour face most of the time, or are ones who will complain when asked to shoulder their part in the work… Continue reading

Influenced By Denominations

truthandreason@gmail.com — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 03:00:46 +0000

INTRODUCTION

This morning we're going to talk about 6 ways that the denominational world is influencing the church of Christ today.
We're not going to talk about the obvious influence of denominationalism (i.e. when we begin to allow denominational beliefs into our hearts), however we are going to dig deeper, to consider a more subtle way that the Devil is turning the Lord's people away from Him.
My goal in this

Ephesians: Walking In Unity

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:13 +0000

[Ephesians 4:1-16]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our look at Paul's letter to the Ephesians, we now come to a portion of the letter in which Paul writes to urge the brethren to be unified in the faith. Unity is one of those subjects that is often discussed in the religious circles, but seldom ever sincerely pursued. It is talked about like some high goal [and it is]… Continue reading

An Inheritance Worth Passing On

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 16:00:15 +0000

[1st Peter 1:3, 4]

INTRODUCTION A. As we conclude our study of the need for Passing the Torch to the next generation let's take a minute and think about the lessons we have considered so far. In the past six months, we have considered the need to be an example to believers, to exhort the young men and admonish the young women, to teach our children, to pass… Continue reading

Psalm 1: The Two Ways Men Choose

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:42 +0000

INTRODUCTION A. In spiritual matters as to which way we will go, there are two choices: God's way or not God's way. In everything we do that relates to our spiritual standing, we either do that which is pleasing to Him, or we do that which is not pleasing to Him. In spiritual matters, for everything we do, we are choosing to God's will or our… Continue reading

Look At Yourself!

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:12 +0000

[Matt. 7:1-5]

INTRODUCTION A. One of the easiest thing to do as a Christian is to look at another and find some fault in them - either in what they say or what they do. None of us are without faults, so it doesn't take much effort to find something wrong. But, it's a lot harder to hold up the mirror and look at ourselves. We seldom take… Continue reading

You Must Be Born Again

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 16:30:13 +0000

WHY MUST WE?

WE CANNOT SEE / ENTER THE KINGDOM
1. Jesus states it clearly. While Nicodemus did not understand the meaning of being born again, he surely should have understood the value of it. Jesus said, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." ... "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit

Who Will Be The Shepherds?

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 16:00:39 +0000

[1st Timothy 3:1-7]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our study of the need for Passing the Torch to the next generation and has been said already, it is important that we have in our minds those who are a part of the "next generation" of disciples, and we should be thinking now about the future - their future. As has been said in previous lessons, as we… Continue reading

The Ways We Deny Jesus

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 29 May 2011 16:00:17 +0000

[Matthew 10:32, 33]

INTRODUCTION A. Most - if not all - of us who are Christians would like to believe that we would never deny our Lord, Jesus Christ. We would like to believe that, but in the back of our minds, we might be wondering if we really would be able to keep our word in certain situations. Years ago, during the "Cold War" era, there was… Continue reading

Four Resurrections

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 23 May 2011 00:00:34 +0000

INTRODUCTION A. One of the central points of our faith in Jesus Christ is belief that God raised Him from the dead, proof that He was the Son of God as He had claimed. Paul told the Roman brethren "that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." (Rom. 10:9)… Continue reading

Exercising To Godliness

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 22 May 2011 16:00:00 +0000

[1st Timothy 4:7, 8]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our study of the need for Passing the Torch to the next generation and has been said already, it is important that we have in our minds those who are a part of the "next generation" of disciples, and we should be thinking now about the future - their future. As was said in the last lesson, as… Continue reading

Ephesians: The Mystery Revealed

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:51 +0000

[Ephesians 3:1-21]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our look at Paul's letter to the Ephesians, we now come to a portion of the letter in which Paul writes of what he calls here "the mystery" - the once-hidden plan of salvation that has now been revealed to mankind. Within this portion of the letter are some very important teachings about God's plan for our salvation but, as we… Continue reading

When God Is With Us

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 15 May 2011 16:00:11 +0000

[Genesis 37-50]

INTRODUCTION A. There are countless numbers of TV and radio preachers who will promise you that if you are following God, He will bless you materially beyond your imagination. Current preachers such as Joel Osteen, Joyce Meyer, and Creflo Dollar all promote what has come to be called "The Prosperity Gospel" and make statements such as, " If you develop an image of victory, success, health… Continue reading

A Desolate City

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 02 May 2011 00:00:00 +0000

[Zephaniah 3:1-7]

INTRODUCTION A. Late in the history of the nation if Israel - years after it had divided into two kingdoms and when only Judah survived - the remaining people were slowly sinking into godlessness and had forgotten all about the God who had brought them out of Egyptian bondage and into this Promised Land. They had just suffered under the rule of Manasseh, a king described… Continue reading

Workers Unashamed

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 01 May 2011 16:00:23 +0000

[2nd Timothy 2:15]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our study of the need for Passing the Torch to the next generation and has been said already, it is important that we have in our minds those who are a part of the "next generation" of disciples, and we should be thinking now about the future - their future. As we are thinking about the future - of… Continue reading

Everything

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 16:00:41 +0000

[Proverbs 3:6]

INTRODUCTION A. One of the great points to consider in our Savior's crucifixion is the matter of the self-sacrifice He was willing to make. We may remember that He "set aside" the glories of heaven and being God and appeared to us in the form of lowly man and dying the horrible death on the cross that we might have the hope of forgiveness of sins… Continue reading

Ephesians: Our Hope, Our Peace, Our Rock

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 00:00:20 +0000

[Ephesians 2:11-22]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our look at Paul's letter to the Ephesians, we now come to a portion of the letter in which Paul continues to remind the brethren there of what they had in Christ, as faithful disciples. In the last lesson, we saw how Paul described their former way of life as "dead in sin" and wrote of their salvation through God's grace… Continue reading

Teach Us To Pray

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 16:00:53 +0000

[Luke 11:1]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our study of the need for Passing the Torch to the next generation and has been said already, it is important that we have in our minds those who are a part of the "next generation" of disciples, and we should be thinking now about the future - their future. As we are thinking about the future - of the… Continue reading

Psalm 130: Who Can Stand?

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 00:00:04 +0000

INTRODUCTION A. The story of the Bible is one of man's creation, sin, and redemption. From the beginning to its end, this is interwoven into just about every word written for our reading, interpretation, and application. In just the third chapter of this Book of books, we find sin entered into the world through the temptation of woman, the separation of man from God because of sin, and… Continue reading

Better!

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 00:00:18 +0000

[1st Pet. 2:9]

INTRODUCTION A. In our society today, we are forever bombarded with advertisements that proclaim the latest product as newer and better than anything on the market. Surveys are constantly being done to find out which products are, in the opinion of the consumer, the best ones. All of these are done so the manufacturers can tout their products as better than their competitors'. They do… Continue reading

Commit These To Faithful Men

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 16:00:34 +0000

[2nd Timothy 2:2]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our study of the need for Passing the Torch to the next generation and has been said already, it is important that we have in our minds those who are a part of the "next generation" of disciples, and we should be thinking now about the future - their future. As we are thinking about the future - of… Continue reading

Living ‘As’ We Should

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 00:00:31 +0000

[1st John 2:6]

INTRODUCTION A. It is an admirable thing to want to become a child of God, and those of us who are already Christians should be spending the majority of our time trying to lead others to follow us in obedience to the gospel. I will encourage you constantly to continuously make efforts to teach others and study with the lost that they may become a… Continue reading

Teach the Children

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 16:00:16 +0000

[Deut. 4:9; 6:6, 7; Eph. 6:4]

Ephesians: Saved By Grace Through Faith

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 00:00:57 +0000

[Ephesians 2:1-10]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our look at Paul's letter to the Ephesians, we now come to a portion of the letter in which Paul describes the condition of these disciples before they had been saved from their sins, and how they came to be saved. it seems as if Paul is reminding them of their former condition so they would better understand their present condition… Continue reading

Common-Sense Christianity

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 16:00:23 +0000

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our study of the need for Passing the Torch to the next generation and has been said already, it is important that we have in our minds those who are a part of the "next generation" of disciples, and we should be thinking now about the future - their future. One thing we need to be thinking about is something I believe… Continue reading

Three Signs of Self-Righteousness

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 00:00:31 +0000

INTRODUCTION
1. It is so important as faithful children of God that we understand the tactics of our enemy, who is prowling about like a roaring lion looking for a soul to consume. Tonight we're going to examine one of the many weapons that Satan uses to try and get us to fall away.
2. It has many names: Pride, Arrogance, Hypocrisy, Self-Exaltation, Self-Righteousness. Tonight we will look at Three Signs

How Shall We Escape?

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 16:00:36 +0000

INTRODUCTION
1. Our text for this morning poses a very serious question not only to those who are not yet believers, but also to those who have been a child of God for many years, "How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?" This morning I want you to ask yourself, "How shall I escape if I neglect so great a salvation?" Last month I spoke

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:47 +0000

Good evening everyone, it's good to see you all out this evening. Tonight's topic will be on respect. This is a virtue that is highly promoted by God in the Bible, yet it is one that is sadly lacking in today's world. People have always been selfish, I'm sure I don't have to tell you that. But there was a time where things such as manners were… Continue reading

Discovering the Pearl of Great Price

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 16:00:16 +0000

[Matt. 13:45, 46]

INTRODUCTION A. Most of us are probably familiar with this short parable of Jesus in which a man discovers a pearl of great value and goes and sells all that he has in order to purchase it. This is an important parable in the many of our Savior Jesus Christ because it brings out many things which we should understand about the kingdom of God. B… Continue reading

I Just Can’t Help Myself

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 02:30:19 +0000

The Reality of Hell

truthandreason@gmail.com — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 02:30:53 +0000

Caring is Key

truthandreason@gmail.com — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 02:30:01 +0000

Naaman

truthandreason@gmail.com — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 02:30:44 +0000

Believing is Seeing

truthandreason@gmail.com — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 02:30:17 +0000

The Sin of Lying

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 02:30:19 +0000

A Successful Marriage

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 16:40:02 +0000

Be Here

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 15:00:37 +0000

Ephesians: Paul’s Prayer

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:18 +0000

[Ephesians 1:15-23]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our look at Paul's letter to the Ephesians, today we come to Paul's prayer for the brethren at Ephesus, in which he outlines a few things that these brethren - and all Christians - should know. As Paul did in many of his other letters, he let them know that they were in his prayers - and for what he prayed… Continue reading

Admonish the Young Women

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 16:00:13 +0000

[Titus 2:3-5]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our study of the need for Passing the Torch to the next generation and has been said already, it is important that we have in our minds those who are a part of the "next generation" of disciples, and even those who are not yet disciples; and whatever age we are, that usually means those who are younger than us. In the… Continue reading

Psalm 72: The Forever King

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:22 +0000

INTRODUCTION A. Throughout the Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah, and into the Gospels of the New Testament, the Christ was foreseen as not just a Savior, but also as a King. Jeremiah wrote of a coming King who would reign in righteousness (Jer. 23:5); Isaiah spoke of the coming Messiah as one who would sit on the throne of David and would establish the kingdom "with judgment… Continue reading

Finding the True Refuge

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 16:00:15 +0000

INTRODUCTION
1. Our culture is obsessed with security i.e. alarm systems, panic rooms, fallout shelters, emergency exits.
2. We want protection and safety. Prepping for the birth of our daughter, it's clear that safety is key.
3. A real danger for us spiritually is finding safety in things that will not keep us safe. This morning, let's talk about Finding The True Refuge - the only place of safety, security, and protection we

Hungering and Thirsting For Righteousness

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:19 +0000

[Matthew 5:6]

INTRODUCTION A. According to organization Bread For The World [www.bread.org], about one in four children in these United States is at risk of hunger, and about one in three for African-American and Latino children. About 15% of households in this country struggle regularly to put food on the table, with many having to decide between paying certain bills or eating. Malcolm Robert Duthie, the World Food… Continue reading

Exhort the Young Men

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 16:00:57 +0000

[Titus 2:6]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our study of the need for Passing the Torch to the next generation, it is important that we have in our minds those who are a part of the "next generation" of disciples, and even those who are not yet disciples; and whatever age we are, that usually means those who are younger than us. In the next couple of lessons… Continue reading

A Study On Love

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:28 +0000

Choose Life!

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 16:00:19 +0000

[Deut. 30:11-20]

INTRODUCTION A. This popular slogan used by the anti-abortion/right-to-life groups is a phrase [not coincidentally] from the Bible. Their use of this is to try to get others to make the choice for letting the innocent children live instead of being cruelly and unmercifully taken. While this is an admirable cause to try to save those who are innocent, I believe the context from which this… Continue reading

God’s Dividing Lines

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 00:00:44 +0000

[Exod. 32:26]

INTRODUCTION A. Anyone who has had some dealings with farms understands what a dividing line is. We have fences that keep out some creatures and keep the rest of them in. Farmers use barbed wire to remind the ones who get too close that there is the dividing line. Some farmers use electric fences to remind their own animals that this is as far as they… Continue reading

“Be An Example to the Believers”

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 16:00:50 +0000

[1st Timothy 4:12]

INTRODUCTION A. As we continue our study of the need for Passing the Torch to the next generation, one thing we must never forget to do is to be the example for them to follow. This is not a new thing, nor is it a wrong thing to suggest. The apostle Paul wrote, "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ" (1st Cor. 11:1)… Continue reading

Ephesians: Our Redemption in Christ

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 00:00:01 +0000

[Ephesians 1:1-14]

INTRODUCTION A. For those who know much of anything about God's word, you know it is an absolute necessity to be in Christ if we want any hope of forgiveness of sins and eternal life in heaven. You also know that not only is it important that you be in Christ, but just as important that Christ be in you. Discipleship is a two-way street that… Continue reading

Our Lifted Lord

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 16:30:55 +0000

[John 12:32]

INTRODUCTION
1. If you were asked what the most important reason for you being a Christian is, what would your answer be?
  1. Would it be the great singing and powerful preaching that draws you into the worship assemblies?
  2. Would it be your family who have a history of being Christians?
  3. Would it be the sense of community in being here together?
  4. Would it be because you want to have a

Psalm 103: A Mercy Like No Other

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 00:00:29 +0000

INTRODUCTION A. When it comes to the characteristics of God, His mercy is the one that is indisputable and it is one of the most written about. Just within the psalms we find 110 mentions of God's mercy, and one (Psa. 136) that notes His everlasting mercy in every verse. There are probably just as many passages [if not more] that speak of His mercy without mentioning it… Continue reading

Passing the Torch

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:00:18 +0000

[Ecclesiastes 1:4]

INTRODUCTION A. The use of the Olympic torch is something that was introduced in 1928 as sort of a 're-introduction' of the flame during the Olympic games. In the early years of Olympic competition, a flame was continually burning during the games, and a single runner brought it to the site as a symbolic representation of stealing fire from the Greek god Prometheus. It has only… Continue reading

Heart Problems That Kill

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:31 +0000

[Matt. 12:34, 35]

INTRODUCTION A. The central organ of the human body is the heart. When it quits, we quit. When we have problems with our heart, the rest of our body will suffer; when our heart is fit, we enjoy good health and good life. But in our society today, there is a great deal of information and concern about heart problems that leaves us confused sometimes… Continue reading

“Take Away The Stone.”

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 02 Jan 2011 16:00:51 +0000

[John 11:39]

INTRODUCTION A. In this particular passage of Scripture, Lazarus had become very ill and died before Jesus got to him. We know that Jesus was considered a friend of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus by the events that took place [v. 5, 34-35]. Jesus wanted to raise Lazarus to show the glory of God. B. When Jesus got to the tomb, He commanded them to "Take away the… Continue reading

Trust & Obey

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 00:00:43 +0000

He Who Laughs Last…

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 26 Dec 2010 16:00:35 +0000

[Luke 6:25]

INTRODUCTION A. There is an old saying, "He who laughs last, laughs best." It speaks of that feeling of satisfaction when others realize that you have won or succeeded after thinking that they had defeated you or that you had failed. It might describe the feeling the Philadelphia Eagles had at the end of the game last Sunday; after being down 31-10 at the beginning of… Continue reading

Choosing The Good Part

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:05 +0000

[Luke 10:38-42]

INTRODUCTION A. In this short scene, we see Jesus having come to Mary and Martha's house as He is traveling. While there, he is no doubt continuing to teach, taking every opportunity. As He teaches, one of the women sits at His feet to hear the great words of wisdom and salvation that He has for them, while the other is busy about doing that which… Continue reading

The Odyssey

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 19 Dec 2010 16:00:04 +0000

[Matthew 7:13, 14]

INTRODUCTION A. It is believed that in the 8th century before Christ, the Greek poet Homer wrote The Odyssey, a tale of the ten-year trek of Odysseus as he returns from the Trojan War to his home in Ithaca. As Odysseus recounts his travels and adventures, we are told of his capture by the one-eyed Cyclops Polyphemus and his eventual escape, the dangers of sailing… Continue reading

Psalm 50: Standing Before the Judge

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 00:00:53 +0000

INTRODUCTION A. It should come as no surprise to the people of God that we will all face judgment one day. The writer of Hebrews reminds us, "it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment" (Heb. 9:27). When Peter spoke to Cornelius and his household, he taught that Jesus was "appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead" (Acts… Continue reading

Counting the Cost

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 16:00:58 +0000

[2 Samuel 24:24]

INTRODUCTION
1. In 2 Samuel 24, David commits sin against God by numbering the people, expressing a lack of trust in God to take care of them (10). As the anger of the Lord burns against the people, and He asks David what punishment should befall him (11-13). David chooses to fall into the hands of the Lord rather than the hands of men and

That You May Not Sin

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:00:37 +0000

[1st John 2:1]

INTRODUCTION A. In the first of John's general epistles, he speaks to the reader about the things which will help them to live in Christ, free from sin. He writes in the beginning that it is necessary for us to "walk in the light as He is in the light" (1st John1:7) that we might have fellowship with God and if we do not walk… Continue reading

A Tale of Two Cities

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 16:00:42 +0000

[Revelation 21]

INTRODUCTION A. Charles Dickens wrote and published A Tale of Two Cities in 1859 as weekly installments in his literary periodical, All the Year Round. The story follows the lives of several people before and during the French Revolution and illustrates the injustices of the French aristocracy and the subsequent vengeance brought upon those who had treated the peasants so cruelly and harshly in the years… Continue reading

People of Peace

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:33 +0000

Good evening everyone, it's good to see everyone out tonight. I'd like to thank the elders for giving me the opportunity to be able to preach. I said this last time I was up here, but it's worth saying again: It's one thing to study the Bible on your own, but when you have to be prepared enough to teach others about it, you gain a whole… Continue reading

A Brief History of Time

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 16:00:36 +0000

[Genesis 1]

INTRODUCTION A. In 1988, A Brief History of Time [written by Stephen Hawking] was published and has become one of the best-selling books on science of all time. The book was an attempt to explain a range of subjects in cosmology, including the Big Bang, black holes and light cones, to an audience untrained in the cosmological sciences. Its main goal was to give an overview… Continue reading

2nd Corinthians: If Paul Comes Again

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:00:40 +0000

[2nd Corinthians 12:14-13:14]

INTRODUCTION A. As Paul continues his to address the brethren at Corinth, he concludes with some remarks regarding his desire to come to them again, but with a warning about their behavior and what should be done before he comes to them again. These words should not be taken lightly by us, anymore than they were to be taken lightly by the ones who first… Continue reading

UP

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 16:00:43 +0000

[Colossians 3:1, 2]

INTRODUCTION A. In the movie of this title, we are introduced to Carl and Ellie, lifelong friends and partners, who have a dream of exploring the wilds of South America someday, but never quite get around to the great adventure they sought. After Ellie's death, Carl becomes somewhat of a hermit and an old grumpy man who resents the fact he is being surrounded by… Continue reading

The Reason to Work Out

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:00:48 +0000

[Philippians 2:12-13]

INTRODUCTION
1. Millions of dollars each year are spent in this country in the pursuit of bodily perfection. Men and women join gyms, buy vitamins, purchase equipment, and invest hundreds of hours working toward their goal of being more physically fit.
2. Others could care less about this physical pursuit.
3. Paul told Timothy, "... exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for

The Temporal vs. The Eternal

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 14 Nov 2010 16:30:56 +0000

[2 Corinthians 4:17-18]

INTRODUCTION
1. As we look at Paul's life of service and the difficulties he faced in teaching the gospel, he refers to the sufferings of this life as "light affliction which is for a moment."
2. In contrast to eternity, we understand that 30, 40, 50, 80 years of dedicated service to God is "but a moment" or "the twinkling of an eye."
3. Is the loss

Looking Unto Jesus

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 16:30:03 +0000

[Hebrews 12:2]

INTRODUCTION

1. This life is continually filled with distraction. One of the things I struggle with more than anything else is remaining focused -- with things small (tapping, clicking, mouth-noises) and large (task management, balancing time).
2. In our spiritual life, we also have many distractions. We can be distracted by evil things of this world, or even by focusing too much on good things from God. What

Excuses

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 00:30:54 +0000

To Save A Life

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 16:00:04 +0000

[James 5:19, 20]

INTRODUCTION A. In the movie of this title, Jake Taylor is a popular high school student who is seemingly well on his way to a college scholarship and a successful life. But the movie begins with the funeral of a young man - a young man who used to be Jake's best friend but who was pushed away over time because Jake became popular and… Continue reading

Refusing To Bow

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:56 +0000

[Daniel 3]

INTRODUCTION A. One of the world's most recognized religious groups is Islam, which some claim is "a religion of peace." What they don't tell you, though, is that their faith's book teaches plainly that all adherents are to spread the doctrine wherever they go and, should others refuse to submit, they are to be enslaved or killed. As much as some would have us believe this… Continue reading

Inferno

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 16:00:46 +0000

[Revelation 21:8]

INTRODUCTION A. In the early 14th century [the date is not certain], Italian poet Dante Alighieri wrote a three part series of epic poems entitled The Divine Comedy, with the three parts being Inferno [hell], Purgatorio [purgatory], and Paradisio [paradise]. The first is the one I would like to focus on as a setup for today's lesson. In the story Inferno, the main character is led… Continue reading

Abundant Generosity

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 00:30:38 +0000

[2 Corinthians 8:7-9]

INTRODUCTION

1. Generosity is important for a Christian, but when we're busy, when money is tight, or when we struggle with our health, sometimes we forget about being generous to those who are in need.
2. Being generous isn't just about giving money, we can also give time, attention, patience, love, forgiveness, tenderness, compassion, knowledge, experience, and so much more.
3. Tonight let's talk about generosity, its importance in

Who Cares?

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 16:30:30 +0000

[Luke 10:33-37]

INTRODUCTION

1. Focusing on yourself is easy. Considering the needs and safety of others is not. It's increasingly easy to place more emphasis on ourselves and our own desires than to consider how we can be of service to others. Consider a few examples:
  1. The Good Samaritan - two passed by and did nothing to help the wounded man (Luke 10:33-37)
    1. They couldn't be bothered to take a

Psalm 6: Relief for the Troubled

truthandreason@gmail.com — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 00:00:33 +0000

INTRODUCTION A. As much as we would like to believe that the life of a disciple is trouble-free, we all probably have come to realize - often through personal experience - that such is simply not true. Unfortunately, many men today have the same concept of God's workings as did Job's so-called friends who blamed some unknown evil he had done as the cause for his misfortune, not… Continue reading

The Man Without A Country

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 16:00:20 +0000

[Romans 1:18-32]

INTRODUCTION A. In 1863, author Edward Everett Hale published a story anonymously in The Atlantic entitled The Man Without A Country, which was later published in book form. The fictional story tells of a man, Army lieutenant Philip Nolan, who is caught up in a treasonous plot and who then condemns the United States, renounces his American citizenship, and states that he wishes never to hear… Continue reading

Jesus, The Judge

truthandreason@gmail.com — Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:30:38 +0000

[John 5:19-30]

Isaiah 5:18-23
Philippians 1:21-30
2 Timothy 4:7-8
1 John 5:9-21
1 John 2:3, 25
Hebrews 10:26
1 Corinthians 15:24-28
Let us then be COMFORTED in knowing He is the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE

All Mankind have been Advised of this Last Great Day
- Romans 1:18-2:29
- Acts 17:30-31

The Ability of this Great Judge is Beyond Compare
- Matthew 25:31-46
- 2 Timothy 4:1-8
- John 5:19-30
- John 12:44-50

None Shall Avoid Judgement
- Romans 14:12
- 2 Corinthians 5:10-11
- Revelation 1:7

But Not All Will be Prepared
- 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
- 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12

Jesus, The Redeemer

truthandreason@gmail.com — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 02:30:35 +0000

[Galatians 4:1-7; Titus 2:11-15]

"Redeemer" - found only in he OT
Job 19:25
Psalm 19:14
Prov. 23:11
1 John 2:1-3
1 Peter 1:18-25

The Meaning of REDEMPTION
- "A relationship/kinship; deliver (do perform the part of near, next) kinsfolk; purchase, ransom, redeem(-er), avenger"
- Ruth 4:1-12
- Eph. 1:1-14
- Acts 20:28

But What Caused Us to be "Sold" in the First Place?
- Galatians 4:1-7
- Hebrews 2:14-18
- Romans 6:16-23

The Price of our Redemption
- Galatians 3:7-29
- 1 Peter 1:18-25
- Revelation 5:9-14
- Revelation 14:1-5

Jesus, The Christ

truthandreason@gmail.com — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:30:13 +0000

[Luke 2:8-20]

Luke 2:11
Isaiah 9:6
Isaiah 61:1-3
Luke 4:14-21

Jehovah Annointed Him
- "Messiah" - Dan. 9:21-27
- "Shiloh" = Messiah
  - Gen. 49:10
  - Isaiah 11-12:6
  - Heb. 1:9

The Greatness of His Anointed Names [Isaiah 9:6]
- WONDERFUL -
  - Properly- "a name quite above the normal"
  - Php. 2:5-11
  - Acts 4:12
- COUNSELOR -
  - Properly - "one from whom wisdom exudes"
  - James 1:5-8
  - Heb. 1:1-2
  - Col. 3:16
- MIGHTY GOD -
  - Properly - "the strong one of God"
  - 1 John 5:7,20
  - Matt. 28:18
  - 1 Tim. 3:16
- EVERLASTING FATHER -
  - Properly - "the one of eternity"
  - Compare Psalm 90:2 and

Jesus, The Miracle Worker

truthandreason@gmail.com — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 02:30:35 +0000

[John 3:1-2]

John 3:1-2
John 5:36
John 10:25
John 10:37-38
John 14:11
John 9:1-41

He Caused the Blind to See More than the Temporal Things of the World
- John 9:1-11
- John 9:25
- Mark 8:22-25
- Acts 26:13-20

He Caused the Lame to Walk with More than Legs
- John 5:1-9
- Luke 5:17-26
- 2 Cor. 5:7
- Eph. 5:15-16
- 1 John 1:5-10

He Caused the Deaf to Hear and the Dumb to Speak Much More than Man's Words
- Mark 7:31-37
- Matt. 13:11-17
- 1 Peter 1:3-9

He Raised the Dead to Life

Truth & Reason » Audio

Excelling in Loving One Another

The Death of Jesus

A Look Back on the Life of the Apostle Paul

Ephesians: The Disciples We Must Be

Excelling In Knowing & Understanding God’s Word

Psalm 66: Blessed By God

To Live is ____, To Die is ____

The Uncommon Among the Common

Excelling In Seeking the Lost

Since You Know, Beware & Grow

A Church with No Problems

Man’s Perception vs. God’s Reality

Everyone Wants Better

Rich in this Present Age

Excelling in Prayer

Psalm 14: The Man Without God

Closer to the Fire

What Shall We Do With the Gospel?

Excelling Still More

The Basics of the Gospel

Having True Joy

Influenced By Denominations

Ephesians: Walking In Unity

An Inheritance Worth Passing On

Psalm 1: The Two Ways Men Choose

Look At Yourself!

You Must Be Born Again

Who Will Be The Shepherds?

The Ways We Deny Jesus

Four Resurrections

Exercising To Godliness

Ephesians: The Mystery Revealed

When God Is With Us

A Desolate City

Workers Unashamed

Everything

Ephesians: Our Hope, Our Peace, Our Rock

Teach Us To Pray

Psalm 130: Who Can Stand?

Better!

Commit These To Faithful Men

Living ‘As’ We Should

Teach the Children

Ephesians: Saved By Grace Through Faith

Common-Sense Christianity

Three Signs of Self-Righteousness

How Shall We Escape?

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Discovering the Pearl of Great Price

I Just Can’t Help Myself

The Reality of Hell

Caring is Key

Naaman

Believing is Seeing

The Sin of Lying

A Successful Marriage

Be Here

Ephesians: Paul’s Prayer

Admonish the Young Women

Psalm 72: The Forever King

Finding the True Refuge

Hungering and Thirsting For Righteousness

Exhort the Young Men

A Study On Love

Choose Life!

God’s Dividing Lines

“Be An Example to the Believers”

Ephesians: Our Redemption in Christ

Our Lifted Lord

Psalm 103: A Mercy Like No Other

Passing the Torch

Heart Problems That Kill

“Take Away The Stone.”

Trust & Obey

He Who Laughs Last…

Choosing The Good Part

The Odyssey

Psalm 50: Standing Before the Judge

Counting the Cost

To Live is , To Die is