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September 27, 2026 - Wednesday Bible Class In this episode Levi Word leads a heartfelt Bible study centered on 2 Peter 1, challenging listeners not to stop at baptism but to grow into Christian maturity. He explains why Peter (and Jude) warned the early church about false teachers and why spiritual growth—beyond initial faith—is essential for remaining faithful. Levi walks through the eight qualities Peter lists—faith, moral excellence (virtue), knowledge, self-control (temperance), perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and selfless love—illustrating each with Scripture (including Hebrews 11, Ephesians 2:19–22, Philippians 4:8, Psalm 19, Romans 1, Ephesians 6, and 1 Corinthians 13). He defines faith, emphasizes knowledge gained from both creation and the Scriptures, and stresses practical disciplines such as daily prayer, Scripture study, and putting on the full armor of God to withstand trials and false doctrine. The episode mixes careful exegesis with personal stories and concrete examples: Levi references conversations with Neal and Bill, recounts time as a police officer, shares moments from working in Ethiopia, and reflects on visiting Qumran and the Dead Sea Scrolls to underscore the reliability of Scripture. These anecdotes help translate doctrine into real-life application. Key takeaways for listeners: guard against false teaching; begin growing immediately when you become a Christian regardless of age; shape your mind by Philippians 4:8; practice self-control and perseverance through life’s storms; and let love (1 Corinthians 13) be the capstone of Christian character. Expect a mix of biblical teaching, historical context, practical counsel, and personal testimony designed to encourage steady spiritual growth and a life lived "His way."   Duration 50:13

September 20, 2026 - Sunday PM Service   Tonight’s Q&A with speakers Neal and Hiram tackles ten thoughtful questions Christians regularly face. The episode opens with a theological framework for distinguishing cultural practices from binding biblical commands—using modesty, manners, and head coverings as examples and offering principles (universality, timelessness, and absence of exceptions) to determine what applies today. The hosts discuss the Shroud of Turin, weighing carbon-dating and historical evidence while stressing that artifacts don’t replace apostolic testimony as the basis of faith. Listeners hear an extended look at Hebrews 10:26 and the nature of willful sin, repentance, and restoration, with references to Luke 15 and 1 John 1:9. Practical worship issues are covered in 1 Timothy 2:8, explaining “lifting up holy hands” as symbolic of a holy life and surveying biblical prayer postures; they also address hand-clapping and clarify New Testament expectations for congregational singing. The panel examines whether it’s ever right to attend a nonbiblical or denominational service with friends, giving guidelines on conscience, evangelistic wisdom, and avoiding compromise. The episode offers encouragement about answered prayer—appealing to Scripture (1 John 5:14, Psalm 46) and personal experience—and a clear explanation of Jesus’ teaching on marriage versus Old Testament polygamy, showing how the New Covenant restores God’s original design. For Bible-study listeners, Hiram provides a readable roadmap through Ezekiel’s final chapters, distinguishing near-term restoration from Messianic fulfillment and connecting Ezekiel’s temple imagery with New Testament typology. Finally, they discuss Romans 16:1 (Phoebe as a diakonos) and Acts 21’s Jerusalem visit, clarifying the semantic range of diakonos, the role of women’s service in the church, and the dangers of compromise in ministerial decisions. Throughout the episode the speakers balance careful exegesis, pastoral sensitivity, and practical application, making complex passages accessible and equipping listeners to think biblically about worship, doctrine, witness, and daily Christian living.   Duration 55:09

September 20, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon In this episode Neal opens by describing recent Sunday-night format changes—Bible study through Philippians, rotating worship leaders, and a lively Q&A session moderated by Chris Young with Hiram and others—where more than 20 varied questions were raised (from the Shroud of Turin to Ezekiel’s temple and how to distinguish cultural practices from divine commandments). Neal encourages in-person participation and frames the night’s main focus: ten questions drawn from the congregation that resonate with everyday life. The central teaching turns to Romans chapter 12 as a turning point in Paul’s writing: chapters 1–11 explain salvation by faith, and chapter 12 applies that truth to a transformed life. Referencing Craig Groeschel’s "The Christian Atheist", Neal warns against a consumer mindset that treats church as optional or merely a service-provider and insists the church exists for the world—God’s people exist to serve, not to be served. The episode unpacks three major themes from Romans 12: (1) the existence of gifts—each believer has unique abilities and there are no “useless” parts in the body of Christ; (2) the exercise of gifts—Paul lists seven practical expressions (prophesying/teaching, serving, encouraging, giving, leading, showing mercy, etc.) and explains how these are to be actively used; and (3) the heart or effectiveness of those gifts—what happens in community when gifts are employed faithfully. Illustrations and Scripture (including 1 Corinthians 12, Ephesians 4, Acts 2, Galatians 6) emphasize unity and interdependence—like a symphony or an aspen grove whose trunks share one root—and the practical results when Christians engage: a sharpened moral compass, stronger relationships, increased dedication and hospitality, greater empathy, humility, and the ability to overcome evil with good. Neal highlights that 8 objectives flow from faithful service (based on Romans 12:9–21), such as loving without hypocrisy, blessing persecutors, rejoicing with those who rejoice, and leaving vengeance to God. On a local level the sermon describes the Cumberland Trace Church of Christ’s vision work: elders have developed multiple vision groups (now expanded to 17) to channel members’ gifts into ministries—media & technology, young adult and college work, missions, strengthening the church family, and more. Listeners are invited to discover where they fit, to be baptized or restored if needed, and to join the congregation in active service and prayer. The episode closes with a clear call to action: examine your role in the body of Christ, use the gifts God has given, and respond—whether by joining a vision group, seeking restoration, or professing faith through baptism—so the church can fulfill its mission together.   Handout:   10:30am: OUR GIFTS FOR GOD'S GLORY (Romans 12) — Neal Pollard Announcements & Upcoming Events Introduction A. The ________ Doesn't Exist for Us; The _______ Exists for the _________ B. This Chapter Teaches Us About... I. THE __________________ OF GIFTS (3-6) II. THE _________________ OF THESE GIFTS (6-8) III. THE _________________ OF THESE GIFTS (9-21) A. It ____________ Our Moral ___________ (9) B. It ___________ Our ______________ (10) C. It __________ Our ____________ (11-12) D. It _________ Our _____________ (13) E. It ___________ Our __________ (14) F. It __________ Our ___________ (15) G. It _________ Our _____________ (16) H. It _________ Our _____________ (17-21) Conclusion A. Our ____________ Are Designed to Help Us Literally _____________ This ____________   Duration 29:50

September 20, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class   In this episode Neal continues a verse-by-verse study through 1 Corinthians chapters 3 and 4, picking up where Hiram left off. The message surveys Paul’s diagnosis of spiritual immaturity in the Corinthian church — personality-driven division, worldly wisdom, and the dangers of lining up behind men instead of Christ — and unfolds Paul’s corrective plan for rebuilding congregational unity. The lesson walks through Paul’s metaphors: the vineyard and the building. Converts are pictured as building materials — gold, silver and precious stones versus wood, hay and straw — and Paul explains how the “day” of trials (fire) will reveal what endures. The talk emphasizes that the proper foundation is Jesus Christ and that God, not human planters or waterers, causes growth. Key theological points include the role of the Spirit and the collective nature of the church as God’s temple. The speaker addresses the promise of reward when converts endure, the heartbreak of followers who fall away, and the comforting truth that teachers who faithfully labor will be saved even if some of their converts prove spiritually weak. Practical application focuses on humility and stewardship: Paul and Apollos are presented as servants and stewards, not celebrities, and the congregation is exhorted to adopt servant-hearted attitudes. The talk calls believers to be faithful in evangelism, live consistently as salt and light, learn and teach the “mysteries” of the gospel, and avoid worldly wisdom that breeds pride and division. Illustrations and personalities referenced include the apostle Paul as the primary example, a mention of Hiram’s prior lesson, Timothy as a faithful child in the Lord, and modern examples of individuals who amplified evangelistic fruit. The episode closes by encouraging imitation of faithful teachers, fostering unity through instruction, and preparing to continue in chapter 4 next week.   Duration 44:44

September 16, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class This episode is a sermon-style teaching about the faithfulness of God and how His unchanging character forms the foundation for our own faith. Bill opens with 1 Corinthians 1:4–9 and frames the message around five pillars that describe God’s faithfulness—His omniscience (ever-knowing), omnipotence (ever-powerful), omnipresence (ever-present), truthfulness (ever-honest), and absoluteness (never-changing). The talk emphasizes that our faithfulness is a response to God’s consistent faithfulness toward His people. Scripture passages referenced include Psalm 31:23; 1 John 1:9; Revelation 2:10; Hebrews 4:13; Ephesians 3:20; Psalm 139:7–10; Hebrews 6:18; Malachi 3:6; Deuteronomy 7:9; Lamentations 3:23; 1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Timothy 4:6–8; and many Psalms. Bill also surveys biblical examples—Job, Noah, Abraham and Sarah, Moses, the Israelites, David, Elijah, Peter, Thomas and the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11—to illustrate how faith is tested and ultimately strengthened when we turn back to God. Key takeaways and practical guidance include inviting God into everyday decisions and relationships, praying for wisdom and strength, practicing love and forgiveness, resisting the devil, studying Scripture to build faith, and surrounding yourself with God’s people. The message calls listeners to rely on God’s promises rather than feelings, to count the cost of commitments, and to view divine discipline as training that shapes faithful living. Memorable moments include the speaker’s personal testimony of being 46 years in the Lord, a light-hearted anecdote about two mischievous boys, and repeated encouragements to remain faithful until death in order to receive the crown of righteousness (paired with Revelation 2:10 and 2 Timothy 4:6–8). The episode closes with a pastoral prayer asking God to help listeners live faithful lives and to trust His unchanging faithfulness through every season.   Duration 40:30

September 13, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon   In this episode Hiram confronts Marcionism—the early church controversy of dismissing the Old Testament—and explains why the whole Bible is essential for Christian faith. Framing the talk around the title "Old Testament Lessons for New Testament Christians," the sermon walks listeners through ten concrete lessons drawn from Genesis through the Prophets and the Writings that shape New Testament belief and practice. Topics covered include the historical example of Marcion and his edited Bible, the continuity between Old and New covenants, and ten specific takeaways: (1) God as Creator (Genesis, Psalms), (2) the equal value of every person as God’s image-bearer (Genesis, Leviticus, Proverbs), (3) God’s heart for the nations (Jonah, Ruth, Joshua), (4) the inevitability and purpose of suffering (Job, John 16), (5) the indispensability of prayer (Psalms, 1 Samuel, Jeremiah), (6) God’s seriousness about obedience (Leviticus, 2 Samuel, Numbers), (7) God’s sovereignty over nations and rulers (Exodus, Daniel, Romans 13), (8) God’s willingness to forgive anyone (Manasseh, Isaiah, Psalm 103), (9) divine providence surpassing human plans (Joseph, Esther, Romans 8), and (10) the hope of better days to come (Isaiah, Hebrews, John 14). Hiram weaves scripture references and illustrative stories—Job’s suffering, Jonah and Nineveh’s repentance, Joseph’s providence, and the restoration of Manasseh—into pastoral encouragement. He emphasizes practical implications for listeners: don’t reject the Old Testament, value every life, persevere through suffering, pray regularly, respect God’s commands, submit to civil authorities while praying for them, trust God’s providence, and live in expectation of Christ’s return. Participants and contributors mentioned in the recording include Darrell (who reads a passage), co-teachers Barrett and Grant (noted for teaching the Psalms class), Neal (co-teaching with the speaker), and Chase (who leads the closing invitation song). The episode closes with an invitation to receive prayer, restoration, or baptism and an appeal to embrace the hope both Testaments point to in Jesus Christ.   Handout: Old Testament Lessons for New Testament Christians Hiram Kemp 1. God is __________________________ _________________________ (Genesis 1:1) 2. Every ______________________ has ______________________ (Genesis 1:26-27) 3. God wants all _____________________ to know ________________ (Jonah 3:1-10) 4. ______________________________ is _________________________ (Job 1:20-22) 5. ______________________ is _____________________________ (1 Samuel 1:9-18) 6. God does not _____________ ___________ lightly (Leviticus 10:1-3; 2 Samuel 6:6-7) 7. God is _____________ over ____________ & ___________ (Daniel 4:17, 4:25, 4:35) 8. God will ____________ ______________ & ______________ (2 Chronicles 33:1-20) 9. God's _______________ is ____________ than our __________ (Genesis 50:15-21) 10. Better _______________________ are ________________________ (Isaiah 2:1-4)   Duration 34:48

September 13, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon In this sermon-style episode Hiram unpacks why the Bible is unique, authoritative, and central to Christian life. Drawing on passages from both Old and New Testaments (including Deuteronomy, Psalm 119, Isaiah, John, Romans, 2 Timothy, Hebrews, Revelation, and more), the message traces the Bible’s divine inspiration, careful preservation across history, and the sacrifices made to translate and protect it—highlighting figures like the anonymous monastic copyists and William Tyndale. Key topics covered include: the Bible as God-breathed Scripture meant to be read and memorized; the completeness and sufficiency of Scripture; warnings against adding or removing God’s Word; how the Bible reveals truth (sometimes wounding us) and calls for honest self-examination; the Bible’s difficulty and the need for patient, disciplined study; the fact that all Scripture points to Jesus; and the universal, timeless application of biblical teaching. Practical comparisons (e.g., the Bible as lamp, X-ray, and mirror) and pastoral counsel underscore that engaging Scripture is not merely informational but transformative. The episode features the sermon delivered by the pastor (speaker); it references historical context and apologetic considerations and addresses common modern objections—such as curiosity about “lost books”—by explaining the canon’s completion and authority. Scriptural examples and pastoral stories illustrate how the Bible is intended to form believers, not just inform them. Listeners can expect clear takeaways and practical challenges: read the Bible regularly (don’t just quote verses), allow its truth to wound and change you, use tools and community to work through difficult passages, and trust that Scripture is sufficient to guide faith and practice. The episode closes with an invitation to repentance and baptism, and an offer of pastoral support for anyone seeking restoration or spiritual help.   Handout: The Bible... Hiram Kemp 1. The Bible is _________________ to be ________________ (Deuteronomy 17:18-19) 2. The Bible is _________________________________________ (John 16:13; Jude 3) 3. The Bible ______________________ the ________________________ (John 17:17) 4. The Bible is ____________________________________________ (2 Peter 3:15-16) 5. The Bible is ___________________ _______________________ (Luke 24:27, 24:44) 6. The Bible _________ to ________, _________, for ___________ (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12-13) 7. The Bible is ___________________ to ____________________ You (Psalm 19:7-8)     Duration 30:51

September 13, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class In this episode we work through 1 Corinthians chapters 1–3 to confront division in the church and re-center attention on the person and work of Jesus. Hiram continues a conversation started by Neal and interacts with class members as they unpack Paul’s call to unity, the danger of “preacher-itis,” and the source of true wisdom. Topics covered include: Paul’s opening reminders that the Corinthians are sanctified and called; the critique of factions formed around favorite preachers; the countercultural nature of God’s wisdom—how the message of Christ crucified appears as folly to the world but is the power of God; and the contrast between worldly intelligence and godly wisdom. The episode also examines why God chooses the lowly and despised to shame the wise, how the apostles received revealed truth through the Spirit, and practical implications for evangelism and teaching. Key pastoral points emphasize preaching Christ (not the preacher), leaning on Scripture so faith rests on God’s power, and understanding ministry roles: some plant, some water, but God gives the growth. Listeners can expect a mix of exposition and interactive Q&A that highlights biblical prescriptions for unity—seeing God rightly, pursuing spiritual maturity (measured by behavior and humility, not merely knowledge), and giving all glory to the Lord so the church stops dividing over personalities and instead becomes a unified, God-centered witness.   Duration 43:32

September 9, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class   In this episode a Charlie leads a thoughtful lesson on practicing faithfulness in the home, drawing practical lessons from Scripture and a real-life family example. He opens by explaining the series theme “Faithful Unto Death” and outlines preliminary questions every parent and spouse should consider: Am I a member of the Lord’s church? Did I marry a member? Have I encouraged my children to marry within Christ’s church? The talk examines how marriage choices, church commitment, Bible study, prayer, and regular worship shape family life. The speaker cites 1 Peter 3 to highlight responsibilities for wives (submission, gentle and quiet spirit, winning by conduct) and husbands (dwell with understanding, give honor, be heirs together so prayers are not hindered). An unnamed family is presented as an illustrative example — not perfect, but exemplary — of faithful parenting across generations: four children raised in the church, three marrying Christians, a son-in-law converted and now an elder, a daughter who shifted from classroom teaching to educating grandchildren at home, and a devoted grandmother who counseled family members and sought Biblical solutions for marital problems. Key takeaways include the importance of intentional mate selection according to God’s will, the need to teach teens and young adults Biblical standards before marriage proposals come, the vital role grandparents and mature Christians in supporting families, and the centrality of Scripture and prayer as a manual for marriage and family life. The episode closes with a congregational prayer and a note that Bill Dayton will speak next week on understanding God’s faithfulness.   Duration 31:59

September 6, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon   In this episode Neal leads listeners through a vivid imagining of the Israelites’ night at Pi-hahiroth, walking through the Red Sea and witnessing the destruction of the Egyptian army. Using Exodus 15 as his anchor, he examines how God’s majesty is revealed in three dimensions: His names (El, Elohim, Adonai, Yahweh), His characteristics (highly exalted, awesome in praise, wonder-working), and His acts (the Red Sea crossing, redemption and deliverance). The sermon connects those Old Testament events to Psalmic praise, New Testament witness, and the atoning work of Jesus. Along the way Neal references scripture readers and worship leaders present in the service and weaves in anecdotes (a modern glacial disaster, a personal childhood story, and Handel’s Messiah) to illustrate the power and emotional response elicited by God’s greatness. He highlights Hebraic oral memory and the role of songs in preserving and passing on the memory of God’s deeds. Key points include the theological meanings behind each Old Testament name of God, the call to remember and rehearse God’s mighty acts across generations, and the dual idea of redemption (physical deliverance in Exodus and spiritual redemption through Christ). The sermon emphasizes practical responses: worship, remembrance, rededication, and a public invitation for listener response — baptism or renewed obedience. Listeners can expect a richly descriptive sermon that blends exegesis, historical and biblical references, practical application, and a closing invitation to respond to God’s grace. The episode is ideal for anyone seeking a deeper appreciation of God’s majesty, the theological significance of Exodus 15, and encouragement to live out an obedient, remembering faith.   Handout: THE MAJESTY OF GOD (Exodus 15) Neal Pollard It is seen in... I. HIS ____________________________________________________ II. HIS ____________________________________________________ III. HIS ___________________________________________________   Duration 33:10

September 6, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon In this episode, Neal uses real-life sinkholes in Kentucky as a vivid metaphor for spiritual and emotional collapse, then walks listeners through Ephesians 2:10–13 to show how Christ transforms lives. After describing local sinkhole incidents—including a tragic roadway collapse, the Louisville Zoo event, and the famous Corvette sinkhole—the sermon draws parallels between unstable ground and lives lived "without hope and without God." The episode covers Paul’s portrait of humanity “formerly” (dead in trespasses and sins), highlighting the influences of the world, the devil, and a self-centered spirit. The speaker examines the “former passion” of indulging the flesh and mind, bringing the 1st-century context into 21st-century issues such as pornography, sexual immorality, substance abuse, and the resulting consequences. Key theological contrasts are emphasized: the turning point introduced by the phrases “but God,” “but now,” and “so then.” The sermon explains how Christ removes the partition between Jews and Gentiles, makes the spiritually distant near by His blood, and restores identity, purpose, and reconciliation within the one body of Christ. Biblical foundations and practical applications are given: baptism is presented as the means by which believers are united with Christ’s death and the blood of Christ is applied for the remission and washing away of sins. The speaker outlines the blessings found in Christ—mercy, grace, inheritance, nearness, reconciliation, and good works—and urges listeners who are estranged or have wandered to respond to the gospel. The episode concludes with an invitation: a pastoral call to obedience, baptism, and return to fellowship. Listeners can expect scriptural exposition, cultural application, encouragement for those feeling hopeless or far from God, and an opportunity for public response or prayer as the congregation sings and invites decisions.   WITHOUT HOPE & WITHOUT GOD IN THIS WORLD (Ephesians 2:10-13) Announcements & Upcoming Events Neal Pollard I. WE SEE WHAT WE WERE ____________________________________________________ A. Paul Mentions Our Former _______________________________________________ (1-2) B. Paul Mentions Our Former _________________________________________________ (3) C. Paul Mentions A Former _______________________________________________ (11-12) D. Paul Mentions A Former _________________________________________________ (13) II. WE SEE GOD'S _______________ TO ______________ WHAT WE WERE _____________ A. "_________________________________ ___________________________________" (4) B. "_________________________________ __________________________________" (13) C. "_________________________________ __________________________________" (19) III. WE SEE THE ____________ THAT'S MADE WHEN WE'VE BEEN __________ BY CHRIST A. ________________________________ Grace In ______________________________ (7) B. ______________________________ ______________________________________ (10) C. _____________________________________________________________________ (13) D. __________________________________________________________________ (15-16) E. Spiritual ________________________ And A Spiritual ______________________ (21-22)   Duration 33:29

September 6, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class This episode introduces the new quarter of adult and college classes and transitions into a focused study of 1 Corinthians, co-taught by the hosts and guest teachers. Announcements include Barrett and Grant leading the adult class (Psalms devotional studies) and Joey teaching the college class (sin struggles). The main teaching is a co-led lecture on Studies in 1 Corinthians with Hiram and Neal exploring the book’s context and application. Listeners will hear a group discussion opening with the question: why do people leave a church? The episode catalogs common causes — hurt feelings or “church hurt,” unmet needs, lack of connection, doctrinal disputes, personality clashes, preacher-following, ministry availability for children, and even racial tension — and offers pastoral counsel about confronting problems biblically (go to elders, speak privately, avoid hasty moves) and recognizing the consumer mentality that can undermine Christian discipleship. The hosts then ground the conversation in the history and geography of ancient Corinth — a strategic, wealthy, and morally compromised port city — and Paul’s role in founding the church there during his second missionary journey. Key background details include Corinth’s diverse population, its idolatrous and sexualized culture, and the unique pressures that produced division within the congregation. The heart of the episode unpacks 1 Corinthians 1–4: Paul’s call as an apostle and his appeal for the church to be of the “same mind and same judgment.” Neal explains the theological meaning of calling (sanctification, fellowship with Christ, baptism as calling-on-the-name), Paul’s apostolic authority, and why reminding believers of their identity in Christ is the first step toward healing division. Listeners are given a roadmap of the issues Paul addresses across the letter — factional allegiance to different leaders, sexual immorality, marital problems, disputes over judgment and conscience, misapplied Israelite examples, gender-role misunderstandings, abuse of the Lord’s Supper, and rivalry over spiritual gifts — and how these fractures reveal a deeper problem of worldly, fleshly thinking rather than a Christ-centered unity. Finally, the episode points to Paul’s solution: re-center the church on the cross and on Christ’s revealed mind. Practical takeaways include pursuing unity through shared submission to Scripture and Christ’s mind (not merely human preferences), addressing doctrinal error through proper channels, valuing the body metaphor (many members, one purpose), and striving for mutual edification so the church can be blameless and effective in the world. Duration 44:01

September 2, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class In this episode Bill fills in for Brother Clay and leads a thoughtful study on Luke—the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. Drawing on classroom discussion and contributions from Neal, Hiram and Kevin, the group examines Luke’s identity (including Paul’s references to him as the “beloved physician”), his background as a likely Gentile and synagogue-attendee, and his close companionship with the Apostle Paul as shown by the numerous “we” passages in Acts. The host covers authorship and audience (Luke addressing Theophilus, sometimes styled “Most Excellent”), the literary link between Luke and Acts, and why these two volumes together make up roughly a quarter of the New Testament. Key themes are highlighted: Luke’s focus on Jesus’ humanity and compassion, the central role of the Holy Spirit, the missionary expansion of the church, fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, and Luke’s special attention to the poor, outcasts and Gentiles. Listeners will hear close readings of pivotal passages (Luke 1:1–4, Luke 24:44–49 and Acts 1:8), comparisons with the other Gospels (how Luke’s Great Commission emphasizes repentance, forgiveness and Spirit-empowerment), and discussion of Luke’s historical reliability and its impact on faith. Practical applications are emphasized throughout: the mission to seek and save the lost, the transformation of believers into Christlikeness, the church’s responsibility to care for the needy, and the ongoing relevance of Acts as the model for bold, unhindered witness. Expect a mixture of exposition, group Q&A, historical context, and pastoral reflection—ending in prayer—aimed at helping listeners understand both why Luke matters for Bible study and how Luke & Acts should shape the church’s mission and daily life today.   Duration 39:27

August 30, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon   In this episode the speakers unpack the theme of Jesus as the Master Teacher, using Matthew 7:28–29 as a starting point. Through scripture readings, songs, and several short sermons they examine what makes a great teacher—authority, insight into the human heart, creative methods (parables, questions, direct challenge), and above all teaching by example. Listeners will hear reflections on Jesus’ teaching style, including the foot-washing in John 13, and an invitation to move beyond merely knowing doctrine toward living it. The episode moves to a sustained look at how Jesus redefines righteousness through the Sermon on the Mount and related passages (Matthew 5–7, Luke 18). Speakers challenge the audience to stop measuring holiness by external behavior and checklists and instead evaluate motives and the condition of the heart. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector is used to show the danger of self-righteousness, while James 1:22 and other passages remind listeners that true faith is shown by being doers of the Word. Another segment examines the illusion of self-cleansing and the risk of an ‘‘empty’’ holiness, drawing on Matthew 12:43–45 and John 15:4–5 to stress the necessity of abiding in Christ. The hosts explain how behavior modification without God’s presence leaves a person vulnerable, and why genuine transformation comes from the indwelling life of Jesus rather than merely sweeping one’s life clean. The program also explores the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15) and a modern true-life story about a missing boy found decades later to illustrate God’s persistent compassion. Key takeaways include: God watches with compassion while we are still far off, God restores fully (not halfway), and heaven celebrates when a lost person returns. Scripture references woven throughout include Matthew, John, Luke, 2 Corinthians, Romans, Philippians, and others. Expect a mix of preaching, pastoral reflection, scripture readings, and worship songs including “Every Time” and “Seek Ye First.” The episode issues a clear, warm invitation to examine whether you are merely performing righteousness or truly abiding in Christ, offers practical reflection questions, and closes with an encouragement to take steps toward restoration and closer relationship with the Father.   Duration 38:40

August 30, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon This episode features a sermon rooted in Matthew 7:1–6 and the wider context of the Sermon on the Mount, delivered during a service that includes youth-led worship and a brief announcement about three college‑age men preaching on the theme "Jesus the Master Teacher." Neal unpacks what Jesus meant by "Judge not, that you be not judged," showing how familiar words must be understood in context and tied back to Matthew 5:20 and the larger sermon. The message examines the process of unrighteous judgment — how judgment begins in thought, becomes a narrowed way of seeing, and then moves outward into speech and action. The sermon traces sin’s progression with biblical illustrations (Eve, Lot, Joseph’s brothers, Achan, David, Herod, Judas) and modern cultural examples of how "judge not" is often invoked in media controversies. Three principal problems with unrighteous judgment are identified: bias (we excuse ourselves and favor loved ones), hypocrisy (deflecting attention from our own faults and building ourselves up by tearing others down), and a distorted view (acting on incomplete facts or outward appearances). Neal uses concrete examples — including a baseball player’s ocular migraine and the story of Eliab and David — to show how limited perspective warps response. The sermon offers a clear prescription. Practical steps include practicing rigorous self‑examination ("examine yourself"), cultivating brotherly love and the Golden Rule, actively asking God for help, and intentionally looking for the good in others (becoming "sparkle detectors" like Barnabas saw good in Paul). Neal stresses that discernment and church discipline have a place — but must be exercised by God’s standard and in a spirit of gentleness and mercy (Ephesians, 1 Corinthians, 2 Timothy, Hebrews). The talk concludes with a reminder that righteous judgment is distinct from the unrighteous kind the sermon warns against: Christians are called to uphold God’s standard without becoming "hanging judges." Mercy triumphs over judgment, and the preacher issues an invitation to respond in repentance and obedience — a call to faith, baptism, and restoration that echoes the prodigal‑son picture of a merciful Father. Listeners can expect a theological, pastoral, and practical exploration of judgment: careful exegesis of Matthew 7:1–6, scriptural cross‑references (John, James, 1 Corinthians, Romans), real‑world illustrations, and specific, actionable steps for replacing unfair criticism with humble, compassionate discernment.   Handout:   The Verse Everybody Knows... And What It Really Means Neal Pollard Text: _____________________________ I. THE ________________________ OF UNRIGHTEOUS _________________________ A. "I _____________________________________" (1-2) B. "I _____________________________________" (3) C. "I _____________________________________" (4) D. "I _____________________________________" (5) II. THE ________________________ OF UNRIGHTEOUS ________________________ A. We Suffer From _________________________________ B. We Struggle With ________________________________ C. We Struggle With A ____________________________ View II. THE ________________________ FOR UNRIGHTEOUS ______________________ A. ____________________________________ B. ____________________________________ C. ____________________________________ D. ____________________________________ E. ____________________________________ Conclusion A. God Doesn't Condemn: B. But That's Not What Jesus Is Addressing In This Passage C. We Will All Receive ____________________ From _________________ (Js. 2:11-12)   Duration 33:33