Resources

In the sermon 'How Should We Think About Tyrants' by Jeffrey D. Johnson, it is emphasized that God delegates only partial authority and that no authority, including the state, is equivalent to God. The sermon stresses that only God rules the conscience, whether it be in familial or church relationships. The Word of God is the ultimate authority, and when any delegated authority contradicts scripture, believers must obey God over man. Submission to authority is mandated within its proper jurisdiction, which is limited and should align with submission to Christ. The sermon advises against submission to tyranny or any authority that threatens spiritual or physical well-being.

In the sermon titled 'Planting Gardens Among the Ashes,' speaker Kevin Swanson highlights the enduring relevance of Psalm 37, emphasizing that throughout history, earthly empires such as the Babylonian, Persian, and others have been short-lived compared to the lasting impact of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. Swanson cites historical figures like Napoleon to illustrate the superiority of Jesus's kingdom of love over the temporary kingdoms of men. He argues that despite current societal trends and issues, such as transgenderism and abortion, these will eventually fade, and Christians are called to 'plant gardens in the ashes,' signifying growth and renewal in the aftermath of societal decay. The sermon encourages believers to see the present times as an opportunity to demonstrate the transformative power of Christ's love in a world marred by darkness, contrasting the enduring growth and blessing of Jesus's Kingdom with the fleeting nature of worldly powers.

In Conrad Mbewe's sermon, 'The Church Christ's Method,' the church is highlighted as essential for individuals and families, as it aligns with Christ's method of disciple-making. The Great Commission, which involves making disciples, baptizing, and teaching, is central to the church's mission. The church serves as a place for nurturing and instruction under the guidance of shepherds and elders, who ensure the teachings of Christ are upheld. It is also a community where believers encourage one another and find respite from worldly pressures, fulfilling the biblical call for fellowship as described in Malachi. The church's importance is repeatedly emphasized in nurturing faith and promoting obedience to God's commands.

In the sermon 'The Secret to Aging,' Alexander Strauch emphasizes the importance of being 'planted in the house of the Lord' for fruitful and meaningful aging. He highlights key biblical verses suggesting that those who are involved in the community of faith and engaged in the Lord's work have a greater chance of thriving in their later years. Strauch uses the metaphor of a tree that is green and full of sap to describe a spiritually vibrant life, even in old age, akin to Caleb who remained strong at 85. He draws from 2 Corinthians 4:16 to underscore that while the physical body may decay, the inner self is renewed daily through spiritual practices like prayer and serving others. Strauch shares personal experiences of ministering to others, which enhances his spiritual growth and helps him bear fruit as he ages.

In the sermon titled 'Guard Your Sphere and Take the Heat', Brian Borgman discusses the concept of sphere sovereignty, emphasizing that God, through Christ, is sovereign over all realms, including self, family, church, and state. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing when the state oversteps its boundaries and infringes upon these spheres, arguing that obedience to God takes precedence over obedience to the state. Borgman cites the COVID-19 pandemic as an example of state overreach and emphasizes the need for Christians to be prepared to resist such encroachments. Biblical examples, particularly from the book of Daniel, are used to illustrate the importance of standing firm in one's faith, even in the face of persecution. The sermon calls for a proactive approach in teaching children about faith and courage, preparing them for times when they may need to make difficult decisions in the face of state pressure.

In the sermon 'How To Take Dominion' by Jason Dohm, the speaker emphasizes the importance of basing one's life on the Word of God, which clarifies many misconceptions. Using Psalm 127, Dohm argues that children are not obstacles but blessings and rewards from God. He stresses that Christians should align their views with the truth revealed in scripture, understanding children as integral to the good things worth pursuing in life. This perspective challenges the notion that children hinder personal goals, instead promoting the idea that they enrich life and should be desired.

In his sermon titled 'The Myth of Neutrality', Tom Ascol argues that neutrality in a nation's religious stance is a myth, asserting that every nation and individual inherently has a god or set of gods. He observes that in times of crisis, people often turn to state figures as their deities, highlighting the prevalent idolatry of statism in modern society. Ascol warns against the belief in a neutral, secular state, suggesting that secularism is a form of religion that has evolved into paganism. He emphasizes the need for Christians to promote the recognition and honor of the living God and calls for civil authorities to make decisions rooted in righteousness, as they will ultimately be accountable to God.

In his sermon, Scott Aniol emphasizes that children are a blessing from the Lord, a concept rooted in the biblical narrative from the very beginning of creation. He highlights that while the command to 'be fruitful and multiply' is seen as a mandate, it is essentially a blessing rather than a burden. Aniol urges Christians to recognize the hard work involved in parenting as a valuable endeavor that leads to great blessings. He stresses the importance of raising children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, using tools like Bible reading, prayer, and participation in church life. Aniol warns against viewing children as obstacles to personal success and comfort, encouraging a recovery of the notion that children are both a blessing and a divine mandate.

In his sermon, Robert Bosley acknowledges the real evils and frustrations in the world, asserting that while righteous indignation is justified, believers should not succumb to anxiety or depression. He emphasizes the sovereignty of God, referencing Jeremiah 29, and reassures that God has placed His people in their current circumstances for a purpose, equipping them to endure and potentially change the situation over time. Bosley encourages trust in God's ultimate rule and the belief that all events serve His glory and the good of His people. He challenges believers to live according to God's commands and be a light to unbelieving neighbors, especially in an increasingly pagan culture. He draws a parallel with the first-century church in Rome, suggesting that the gospel's light shines more brilliantly in darkness. Despite frustrations, Christians are urged to remain faithful, proclaim that Christ is King, and call others to repentance and trust in Him.

The sermon by Pooyan Mehrshahi addresses the declining birthrate by focusing on the church's role in promoting a Biblical understanding of marriage, family, and children. It emphasizes that children are a heritage from the Lord and should be celebrated by the church, which should support families in their decision to have children by providing resources, encouragement, and counseling. The church should emphasize the significance of raising godly offspring and foster a culture that values life, marriage, and the blessing of children. Additionally, the church can engage in advocacy and outreach to counteract societal pressures that undermine the family unit, speaking directly to politicians in support of families and marriage. Fruitfulness is seen as encompassing both biological reproduction and spiritual growth, impacting future generations. The church can be a beacon of hope, providing love and resilience in difficult times and emphasizing the eternal significance of family life for the glory of Christ.

In the sermon 'Nations Following Fools,' Mala Chindongo discusses the wisdom of God as seen in biblical commands to populate and fill the earth, highlighting how these have been echoed in scripture by figures like Jeremiah. The sermon critiques contemporary population policies, noting a shift from discouraging childbirth to incentivizing it due to economic effects. This change is seen as a consequence of rebellion against God's wisdom. Chindongo emphasizes the Christian duty to populate in order to disciple children to impact the world for Christ's glory. He raises concerns about modern childbirth practices, particularly the preference for cesarean sections, which may limit family size. The sermon calls Christians to be aware of and counter cultural influences by adhering to God's wisdom.

In the sermon 'Is the Enemy Winning,' Kris Baines addresses the anxiety and frustration that can arise from observing the world's current state. He draws a parallel between God's people in Babylon, who were placed there by God's will as a judgment for rebellion, and our present situation, suggesting that we are also where we are meant to be by divine purpose. The speaker reassures that, like the exiled Jews, we need not fear because God has ordained works for us to complete and will provide all we need. By looking above worldly circumstances and focusing on God's eternal purpose, believers can find peace and avoid distress. Baines encourages shifting focus away from self and worldly troubles towards God, promising that this perspective will lead to blessings. The sermon emphasizes God's abiding presence, plan, and purpose, which will ultimately prevail.