Sermons on Challenge:

Valleys

Contributed by Dr. Larry Petton on Apr 26, 2017

God is the Creator of valleys because the Father knows best that we grow most in the green grass of low places in our lives. Take a deep drink of Psalm 23:4 as Dr. Larry Petton challenges us with the question: Can you trust the Shepherd?

Psalm 23 is the most popular chapter of the Bible. It has been shared at funerals, deathbeds, hospitals and in places of worship for over 2000 years. It is one of the most beautiful pieces of literature known to man. Harriet Ward Beecher once said, “Psalm 23 has charmed more griefs to rest than ...read more

Scripture: Psalm 23:1-4

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

"the Parables Of Matthew 13" The Seed Is The Word Of God...sow It!

Contributed by Clarence Eisberg on Jul 14, 2020

In order to understand the parables of Matthew 13 one must begin with Matthew 12 and the challenge of the Pharisees. These parables are about those who are receptive to the Word of God. The farmer scatters the seed. Let God do His thing. Tell "God Stories."

In Jesus Holy Name July 19, 2020 Text: Matthew 13:24-25 Pentecost VII - Redeemer “The Parables of Matthew 13” The Seed is the Word of God… We Just Sow The parable of the Seed and the Sower in Matthew 13 provide answers to the disciples regarding the success or failure of the ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 13:24-25, Matthew 13:1-9

Denomination: Lutheran

Merry Incarnation!

Contributed by Dr. Fred W. Penney on Dec 21, 2020

This sermon challenges us to incarnate the gospel; the big idea is "The Word became flesh - and now flesh must become the word." Instead of saying "Merry Christmas" - to fellow Christians lets say, "Merry Incarnation"!

Title: “Merry Incarnation” Text: John 1:1-14 Idea: The Word Became Flesh And Now Flesh Becomes The Word. Purpose/problem to solve; ...that people really get the concept of incarnation (1) of God (2) of us. Introduction - Virtual Christmas fails to compare with in-the-flesh ...read more

Scripture: John 1:1-14

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

Fooled By A Prophet Series

Contributed by Richard Tow on Apr 19, 2021

Prophetic messages on the Internet are abundant posing new challenges as well as possible benefits. Pastors must equip their congregations to test these messages using biblical principles. This series teaches principles for doing that. This message uses lessons from the story in 1 Kings 13.

Intro Last week we taught on the subject of testing prophecy. How do we know that a dream, a vision, a word that someone is sharing is truly from the Lord? And even if it is from the Lord, are we interpreting it correctly and applying it wisely. We found that all three aspects of a prophecy must ...read more

Scripture: Acts 21:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-22, Hebrews 8:1-13, 1 Corinthians 14:1-40, Revelation 2:7-29, 2 Timothy 3:10, Acts 13:1-3, Acts 19:6, Hebrews 5:11, John 16:13-14, John 10:27, Jeremiah 31:31-34, 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, 2 Kings 23:15-18, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-20, 1 Kings 13:1-34  (view more)  (view less)

Denomination: Charismatic

Making Long-Term Investments

Contributed by Kerry Haynes on Jul 31, 2016

We are really good at accumulating stuff. But how often do our possessions begin to possess us? Jesus warns us about the dangers of greed and calls us to be more than our net worth, challenging us to invest rather in godly pursuits.

Luke 12:13-21 Making Long-term Investments Wow! Today’s passage is a little shocking for those of us who enjoy life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in this greatest nation on God’s green earth. By world’s standards, we are the richest of the rich. We may not be one ...read more

Scripture: Luke 12:13-21, 1 Timothy 6:10-18

Denomination: Baptist

Witness: Confesses #4 Series

Contributed by Robert Butler on Oct 24, 2019

our largest tool for sharing the gospel has been thwarted by our willingness to so assimilate into the culture we don’t look like any different or welcome the challenge of criticism or debate for what we believe. We’d prefer to live anonymously.

We began a conversation three weeks ago about what gives us meaning in this life and I suggested that the question is actually a mute point for those who call themselves Christian because if we believe that Christ came, died and rose again then we must also live out this reality. To live out this ...read more

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

The Problem Of Evil And A Good God Series

Contributed by Jason Smith on Sep 11, 2013

There is a subject that comes up many times whenever we talk to the lost about the God of the Bible and His nature. It has led many people to reject God and has challenged Christians in their faith. The topic: the problem of evil. How would you answer it?

There is a subject that comes up many times whenever we talk to the lost about the God of the Bible and His nature. It has led many people to reject God and has challenged Christians in their faith. The topic: the problem of evil. The problem of evil has represented the most serious objection to ...read more

Scripture: Job 38:2-6

Denomination: Christian/Church Of Christ

Surrender And Live

Contributed by Jason Smith on Sep 25, 2013

Being told the only way you could survive a battle is to surrender would be challenging. This is what Jeremiah told the Jews before Jerusalem was destroyed, and God is telling the us the same today. Do you want to survive spiritual war? You must surrender

Jeremiah 38:2-6 Jeremiah's message and the reaction "Thus says the LORD: He who stays in this city shall die by the sword, by famine, and by pestilence, but he who goes out to the Chaldeans shall live. He shall have his life as a prize of war, and live. 3 Thus says the LORD: This city shall surely ...read more

Scripture: Jeremiah 38:2-6

Denomination: Christian/Church Of Christ

The Letter To Sardis

Contributed by Michael Koplitz on Oct 7, 2021

This will sit well with those who believe that you can lose your justification because of your actions. The belief of once saved always saved is clearly challenged in this letter. When one comes to be a disciple of Jesus Christ one must follow the words of Him.

The Letter to Sardis Revelation 3:1-6 Michael H. Koplitz The letter to the church at Sardis is a straightforward letter with very little symbolism. The one who holds the seven stars is Jesus Christ. We have read about this symbolism in earlier letters. The reference that is made to those who will ...read more

Scripture: Revelation 3:1-6

Denomination: United Methodist

Are You Committed? Series

Contributed by T.j. Conwell on Nov 21, 2021

Nehemiah is great study of leadership, but also challenges us on Godly obedience. However, obedience to God’s calling is one of our greatest hurdles in today’s world. Nehemiah established a covenant with the people that is still in effect today, if we are willing to be faithful to God!

Introduction - Nehemiah is great study of leadership, but also challenges us on Godly obedience -- Obedience to God’s calling is one of our greatest hurdles in today’s world - Last week we saw the people’s need to worship God and why: 1. He is completely Sovereign 2. He is always ...read more

Scripture: Proverbs 29:18, Genesis 2:2, Exodus 23:12, Leviticus 6:13

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

Moses 40 Days Of Fasting!

Contributed by Bala Samson on Nov 19, 2014

The mammoth crowd of around 6 lakh people taunted him, mocked at him, rebelled against him, disobeyed him, challenged him and envied him from the time Moses knew them; yet, here was Moses prostrating before the Lord interceding for their life!

Just blew my mind! Deuteronomy 9:24”You have been rebellious against the LORD from the day that I knew you. 25 "So I lay prostrate before the LORD for these forty days and forty nights, because the LORD had said he would destroy you.” This scripture just blew my mind! The mammoth ...read more

Scripture: Deuteronomy 9:20-24

Denomination: Pentecostal

"christian Truckers In A Changing World"

Contributed by Dr. Jerry Hulse on Mar 22, 2023

Christian truckers are at the forefront of an ever-changing world. Navigating through these challenges can be tricky, but it's a task they're willing to take. In this article, we shed light on the obstacles faced by truckers and highlight their unwavering determination to overcome them.

SCRIPTURAL REFERENCES (Psalm 126:6) “He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” (Proverbs 11:30) “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of ...read more

Scripture: Psalm 126:6, Proverbs 11:30, Daniel 12:3, Luke 14:23, Luke 15:10, Luke 19:10, John 4:35-36, John 14:15, Ezekiel 3:18  (view more)  (view less)

Denomination: Pentecostal

Prophetic Alignment Series

Contributed by Apostle Dr. Ruben L. Broadnax Jr. on Oct 24, 2024

Prophetic Alignment" is a call to the church to tune into God's voice, align with His heart, and act on His direction. This sermon challenges believers to hear clearly, live obediently, and impact the world through prophetic action that reflects God’s will.

Throughout history, God has always spoken to His people. He has never left His church without direction, guidance, or His voice. The Bible is filled with stories of how God aligned His people with His purposes by speaking to and through His prophets. In these moments, prophetic alignment was not ...read more

Scripture: Amos 3:7

Denomination: Other

Come To The Other Side

Contributed by D. Dewaine Phillips on Sep 10, 2024

Two disciples were challenged to cross the sea of Galilee. It takes faith to cross over, and we must make the crossing if we ever hope to be in God's will. Crossing over is about moving from where we are to where Jesus is.

“Many years ago, it was decided to put a suspension bridge across a wide gorge. How could they build a bridge across such a wide space? If fact, how could they even start? They shot an arrow from one side to the other. The arrow carried across the gulf a tiny thread, and thus the connection was ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 8:18-22

Denomination: Baptist

Hubris Or Humility Series

Contributed by Joel Gilbert on Sep 16, 2024

There are so many factors that come into play when we make plans, but how often does the Sovereign will of God affect our plan making? In this passage, James challenges us to avoid hubris and embrace humility by submitting to God’s sovereignty in making plans.

Mistakes along the way? In February of 1995, nearly 30 years ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to me in a clear way that has impacted the course of my life - and yet it has not been without mistakes and missteps. He urged me to go to the church the Danielle grew up at and help out with the youth ...read more

Scripture: James 4:13-17, Acts 16:6-10, Isaiah 55:8-9, Luke 22:42-44, Luke 12:16-21, Proverbs 16:3  (view more)  (view less)

Denomination: Baptist