Sermons on Chess Openings:

The Veil Torn

Contributed by David Dunn on Sep 12, 2025

When Jesus died, God Himself tore the temple curtain from top to bottom—forever removing every barrier between His holiness and our hearts. The way into His presence is wide open, not by our efforts or rituals, but by the finished work of Christ.

Introduction – A Wall Comes Down, A Veil Is Rent Down I still remember the summer of 1964 when our family crossed from West Germany into East. We were crammed into a Volkswagen bus—my parents up front, four sisters and two brothers jammed shoulder to shoulder. The youngest, little Sarah, was still ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 27:51, Hebrews 10:19-22, John 19:30, Hebrews 4:16, John 4:23, 1 Corinthians 3:16  (view more)  (view less)

Denomination: Seventh-Day Adventist

Faith That Gives: Discipleship, Generosity, And The Overflow Of Life In Christ Series

Contributed by Dean Courtier on Jan 24, 2026

One of the clearest indicators of true discipleship is not how loudly we sing or how much Bible knowledge we carry—but how freely we give. In a world obsessed with holding on, Jesus calls His followers to live with open hands.

Faith That Gives: Discipleship, Generosity, and the Overflow of Life in Christ Introduction: Following Jesus with Open Hands Church, one of the clearest indicators of true discipleship is not how loudly we sing or how much Bible knowledge we carry—but how freely we give. In a world obsessed with ...read more

Scripture: Philemon 1:6, James 2:17, 2 Corinthians 8:9, Matthew 6:21, Acts 2:44-45, Romans 4:25, Romans 10:9, Philippians 4:19  (view more)  (view less)

Denomination: Pentecostal

Thoughts In 2 Peter 1:1-3 – Number 5 - Grace And Peace Be Multiplied To You Series

Contributed by Ron Ferguson on Feb 5, 2026

The opening of Peter’s second letter introduces grace and peace. Here we explore both those and their operation in a Christian’s life. And it is multiplied! Materialism destroys peace. The deeper the forgiveness, the greater is the appreciation of the grace of God. God’s peace is contentment.

THOUGHTS IN 2 PETER 1:1-3 – Number 5 - GRACE AND PEACE BE MULTIPLIED TO YOU [1]. THE INTRODUCTION What does one place in the introduction to a letter? I suppose that depends on how familiar you are to your readers, and what previous information has been imparted to them. We shall now see what ...read more

Scripture: Luke 1:1-2, Hebrews 1:1-2, 2 Peter 1:1, 2 Peter 1:3, 2 Peter 1:2, 1 Timothy 1:1-2, 2 John 1:3, Ezra 9:8, Isaiah 57:17-21, Luke 8:34-36, Philippians 4:6-7, 1 Timothy 6:6, 1 Timothy 6:8, Philippians 4:11  (view more)  (view less)

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

The Inerrancy Of Scripture: Truth And Authority Series

Contributed by Dean Courtier on Apr 15, 2024

We delve into the foundational truth of the inerrancy of Scripture, exploring its significance as the ultimate source of truth and authority for our lives. As we journey through God's Word, may our hearts be open to receive the transformative power of His truth.

The Inerrancy of Scripture: Truth and Authority Introduction: Today, we delve into the foundational truth of the inerrancy of Scripture, exploring its significance as the ultimate source of truth and authority for our lives. As we journey through God's Word, may our hearts be open to receive ...read more

Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Psalm 19:7-8, Hebrews 4:12

Denomination: Pentecostal

Transformed By Truth: Embracing God's Liberating Word Psalm 119:89 Series

Contributed by Dean Courtier on May 2, 2024

The Word of God holds transformative power, renewing our minds and shaping our lives. As we explore this topic, let us be open to the Holy Spirit's work in our hearts, leading us deeper into the truth that sets us free.

Transformed by Truth: Embracing God's Liberating Word Psalm 119:89 Today, we embark on a journey of transformation through the power of God's truth. The Word of God holds transformative power, capable of renewing our minds and shaping our lives. As we explore this topic, let us be open to ...read more

Scripture: Psalm 119:89, Hebrews 4:12, Psalm 19:7-8, James 1:21, Proverbs 15:33, Psalm 25:9, 1 Peter 5:5, John 8:31-32, Galatians 5:1, Romans 8:1-2, John 8:36  (view more)  (view less)

Denomination: Pentecostal

Is Official Or Formal Church Membership In A Local Church According To Scripture – Part 2 Series

Contributed by Ron Ferguson on May 3, 2025

Formal church membership that involves special membership and voting rights is contentious. In this Part 2, I open up the matter to show how out of sync the matter is with the membership of the one Body of Christ, and the discrimination. We delve into some scriptures to bring this out.

IS OFFICIAL OR FORMAL CHURCH MEMBERSHIP IN A LOCAL CHURCH ACCORDING TO SCRIPTURE – PART 2 In Part 1 we looked at the practice some churches have of there being an official local church membership that divides “members”, adherents and attendees into “MEMBERS” and “NON-MEMBERS” depending if one has ...read more

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:10, Romans 16:17, 1 Corinthians 6:15, 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 1 Corinthians 12:18-20, 1 Corinthians 12:24-25  (view more)  (view less)

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

The Throne

Contributed by Leroy Chandler on Oct 18, 2000

Rev 4:1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will show thee things which must be hereafter.

Rev 4:1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will show thee things which must be hereafter. Rev 4:2 And immediately I was in the spirit; and, behold, a throne ...read more

Scripture: Revelation 4:1-11

Denomination: Pentecostal

Warning: Sin Is Dangerous

Contributed by Greg Newton on Apr 26, 2007

There are many warning signs that give us something to take heed too before proceeding forward or opening a package. How many of us have watched some of the infomercials that give us great promises of a product but do not give you the warning of what cou

“WARNING: Sin is Dangerous” Intro: There are many warning signs that give us something to take heed too before proceeding forward or opening a package. How many of us have watched some of the infomercials that give us great promises of a product but do not give you the warning of what could or ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 7:15-20

Denomination: Pentecostal

Leadership Tips From The Wisest Human Who Ever Lived

Contributed by Paul Fritz on May 9, 2005

Before making any decision we need to do three things: 1). Get all the facts you can 2). Be open to new ideas 3). Hear all sides of the story before you make your leadership decisions. Ten points

Leadership Tips From the Wisest Human of All Time Most things tend to rise or fall on the basis of leadership. If we have great leaders we are able to enjoy blessings but if we follow incompetent leaders we suffer in numerous ways. Is it little wonder that people have their strongest opinions ...read more

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

Pity Party - Prodigal Son / Brother

Contributed by Jerry Shirley on Aug 28, 2004

It’s a sad tune because the only instrument in the band is your own drum which you are beating on incessantly - Very "Phunny" opening poem, then the CURSE, CAUSE, AND CURE of Self Pity. Link inc. to formatted text, audio/video, PowerPoint.

Pity Party Luke 15:25-32 http://gbcdecatur.org/sermons/PityParty.html It’s a sad tune because the only instrument in the band is your own drum which you are beating on incessantly. It’s not fun to listen to and no one taps their foot. But you are certain it makes you feel better to beat it out ...read more

Scripture: Luke 15:25-32

Denomination: Baptist

Gift Wrapped

Contributed by Jerry Shirley on Dec 8, 2004

Opens with some gift-wrapping funnies, closes with great illus. ...in-between is study of HOW GOD WRAPPED His greatest gift, HOW MARY WRAPPED the gift, HOW SATAN WRAPS the gift, and HOW THE HOLY SPIRIT UNWRAPS it. Powerpoint at website.

Gift Wrapped II Cor. 9:15; Luke 2:7 Powerpoint for this sermon and all other GBC sermons located at http://www.gbcdecatur.org/sermons.html "Thanks be unto God for his UNSPEAKABLE gift.’’--II Cor. 9:15. "For the wages of sin is death; but the GIFT OF GOD is eternal life.’’--Rom. 6:23. "And she ...read more

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:15

Denomination: Baptist

In Everything Christ Touches There Is Victory!

Contributed by Doug Koehler on Sep 28, 2002

God opens the door to heaven so that we will be made aware of the war, satan’s plans, and most important, God’s victories. This is done so that we will not only be prepared for the devil’s attacks, but be made more aware of all the victories that come bef

The format of this sermon is BIBLE STUDY. It is designed with more personal application in mind. Be blessed! Text: Revelation 12:7-18+ Date: September 29, 2002 (St. Michael and all the Angels) Title: In everything Christ touches there is VICTORY! If you ever decide to take the time out to study ...read more

Scripture: Revelation 12:7-18

Denomination: Lutheran

Can We Ignore God Without Consequence?

Contributed by Jason Pettibone on Mar 23, 2004

Noah built the ark in the open plain, far from the sea, surely attracting derision. It was hard work that required sustained effort over years and years time. But he BELIEVED and OBEYED God as a result of his faith. God honored that faith by providing a m

Can We Ignore God Without Consequence? We return to the book of Beginnings this morning. Our text is drawn from one of the most well-known stories in the Bible, found in Genesis 6 through 9. The account of Noah. With apologies to David Letterman, here’s a Top Ten list of lessons learned from ...read more

Scripture: Genesis 6:1-8

Denomination: Assembly Of God

Seeing Victory In A Disaster Series

Contributed by David Scudder on Oct 25, 2009

Today we are going to take a step back in our study of Revelation. We have seen the judgments revealed in the seven seals of the book that only Jesus was able and worthy to open. In the pause that we see in today’s text, God is declaring His ultimate and

Revelation 10:1-11 Purpose: To show that the messages of mercy and judgment are often mixed together. Aim: I want the listener to hold on to hope in the midst of any trial. INTRODUCTION: Today we are going to take a step back in our study of Revelation. We have seen the judgments revealed in the ...read more

Scripture: Revelation 10:1-11

Denomination: Independent/Bible

The Love Connection Series

Contributed by Brad Bailey on Jun 11, 2009

We tend to be most at peace with God… When selflessly serving… especially the poor… but even one’s friends and family. When sharing the love of Jesus with someone whose heart is open. When truly forgiving and extending grace to one who is indebted to u

I returned a week ago from Nepal… to be a part of… South Asia Vineyard Family Gathering. Included a few key Indian leaders… but mostly Nepali… about a quarter from the urban area of Kathmandu… many from NE India border… and a majority from the villages that spread many miles up into the ...read more

Scripture: Isaiah 58:1-10

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational