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This sermon explores the theological foundation of corporate worship, arguing that the cross of Christ is the central reason believers gather on Sundays. Drawing from Hebrews 12, the message emphasizes that Christians should approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing Him as a consuming fire while simultaneously enjoying the assurance of salvation. The discourse outlines specific means of worship, including the public reading of Scripture, the preaching of the Word, and the observance of ordinances like baptism and communion. These practices are presented not as mere rituals, but as essential responses to God's redemptive work and a way to proclaim the gospel. Ultimately, the sermon calls the church to offer acceptable worship that glorifies God and strengthens the community in faith.

(AI Generated Summary) The sermon argues that the human mind is naturally hostile to God and oriented toward worldly treasures, resulting in spiritual darkness and a lack of true satisfaction. It emphasizes the necessity of the new birth, where God shines light into the heart to reorient affections toward Him as the ultimate treasure. Using the metaphor of a healthy eye and the parable of the hidden treasure, the message illustrates that only God can fully satisfy the soul, whereas earthly pursuits are like broken cisterns that hold no water. The Christian life is described as a constant reorientation away from worldly desires and back to Christ, who is the sole source of eternal life and joy. This theological framework culminates in the practice of the Lord's Supper, which serves as a regular reminder for believers to trust in Christ and recognize Him as their greatest delight.

This sermon explores the theological foundation of the sacraments as defined in the Belgic Confession, emphasizing their necessity due to human weakness and their function as visible signs and seals of God's invisible grace. Drawing from the Passover narrative in Exodus and the certainty of God's promise in Hebrews, the message argues that baptism and the Lord's Supper are not human achievements but divine gifts that authenticate the gospel. The preacher highlights that these ordinances serve to nourish faith by connecting believers to the work of Christ, countering the notion that they are empty rituals or tests of personal righteousness. By viewing the sacraments through the lens of God's condescending love and the power of the Holy Spirit, the congregation is called to approach them with humility, awe, and a deepened trust in the unchangeable character of God's purpose.

"Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord's body." (1 Cor 11:27-29, NKJV)

The sermon examines the instruction in 1 Timothy 5 to avoid hasty ordination, emphasizing that time is the ultimate revealer of a person's true character and integrity. It argues that churches must prioritize godly character over natural ability when selecting elders to maintain the purity of the ministry and avoid sharing in the sins of unqualified leaders. The message further explores the biblical perspective on alcohol, distinguishing between its medicinal and social uses and the clear prohibition against drunkenness. While acknowledging the freedom of Christians to make personal choices regarding social drinking, the speaker offers a pastoral recommendation for abstinence based on the practical wisdom of avoiding an expensive, addictive neurotoxin. The central call is for believers to walk with a clear conscience, relying on the Holy Spirit rather than substances for peace and joy.

Series: Acts: To the Ends of the Earth Preacher: Pastor Joaquin Garcia Passage: Acts 13:1–12 Date: 10/11/2026

The sermon examines the abuse of the Lord's Supper in the Corinthian church, where social divisions and selfishness undermined the gospel message of unity in Christ. It argues that such factions deny the oneness of believers and defile worship, contrasting the Corinthian behavior with the biblical call to prefer others and maintain scriptural order. The teaching emphasizes that the ordinance is Christ-centered, serving as a remembrance of His sacrifice and a proclamation of His death until He returns. By referencing the regulative principle of worship and the eschatological hope of the future kingdom, the message urges the congregation to receive the Supper with reflection, thanksgiving, and a conscious awareness of their shared identity as the body of Christ.

This sermon explores the theological significance of the Lord's Supper by examining the context of the Upper Room meal in Matthew 26. It addresses the question of who is present at the table, emphasizing that it is for sinners who rely on the Savior, and refutes legalistic barriers to participation. The exposition clarifies the nature of the sacrament, rejecting transubstantiation in favor of the spiritual presence of Christ, and highlights the covenantal link between the Old Testament Passover and the New Testament sacrifice. The message connects the ordinance to the broader narrative of redemption, from the Garden of Eden to the future consummation of the Kingdom, encouraging believers to approach the table with faith, repentance, and gratitude for the finished work of Christ.

Paul and Barnabas began thier missionary work on the isle of Cyprus. What do they find when they get their? They find opposition from Elymas. They find opposition to the truth. This should be expected. We must stand for the truth to stand in opposition to the deception of Satan.

Sermon Start Time: 1:00:55 Love, Feed, Follow: An Ordination Charge Given by Greg VanCourt From John 21:15-19

Belgic Confession of Faith, Article 30