Marks Of A Church Ready For Christ’s Return | 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 | Brent Smith
Paul concludes this letter by giving some good instructions to the church centering around their behaviour toward one another and toward God. Living in light of Christ’s Return should indeed affect how we live today.
Wide Awake in the Last Days | 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 | Brent Smith
Paul addresses the uncertainty surrounding the Day of the Lord, reassuring believers that they should not fear the coming judgment but instead live in hope and holiness as children of light, who are distinct from those in darkness.
Fact Checking Christmas | Matthew 2:7-12 | Brent Smith
Though Christmas is filled with lots of great truths for us, it also has lots of traditions and things passed down that were never really a part of the Christmas narrative at all. These are images and thoughts that are embedded in our brain as what happened, but when you dive in a little deeper the reality is quite different. Some of these are minor innocent things for us, but some of the realities of Christmas reveal a deeper meaning…
Christmas on Time | Galatians 4:4-5 | Brent Smith
Waiting is never easy. We’ve become so conditioned to things being express, instant, immediate, that having to wait for any period of time is agony. And yet, waiting is right where the Lord often has us. It’s not a waiting to make us frustrated, it’s a waiting to bring us to a place of resting in Him. Trusting Him and learning in that time that He’s all we need. And He not only wants to sustain us, He wants to…
Between The Promise and The Throne | 1 Samuel 20 & 21 | Brent Smith
This period of time that we’re looking at in David’s life is a difficult time. It’s one where he is on the run from Saul often. David began as a shepherd, and now he’s a fugitive. And it’s going to be this way for a number of years. From the time that David was anointed by Samuel at Jesse’s house until he actually takes the throne, will be about 15 years. David may have wondered what’s taking so long.God have…
Why I Believe in a Pre-Trib Rapture | Brent Smith
Since we just studied through 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 last Sunday, which is the premier passage on the rapture, I thought I’d take this Sunday to share a little more on this subject to bring further clarity on the pre-tribulation rapture view.
Resurrection, Rapture and Real Hope | 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 | Brent Smith
Paul writes to bring clarity over the coming of the Lord especially in relation to those who have passed away. The certainty of our future brings encouragement and comfort for today.
Leading by Spears or by Spirit? | 1 Samuel 18 & 19 | Brent Smith
David begins to be publicly praised for his heroism and good character, while Saul grows jealous of David’s accolades. It leads to Saul’s attempts to take David’s life. It highlights the struggles of faith against the backdrop of adversity and the necessity of relying on God when friends or leaders become threats.
Sanctified Steps for Saints | 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 | Brent Smith
In this passage, Paul exhorts the Thessalonian church to live in a way that distinguishes them from the surrounding culture, emphasizing the need for holy living and love as key indicators of their identity in Christ. This provides a great witness to the world around them.
Overflow of Joy and Outflow of Love | 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 | Brent Smith
In this passage, Paul expresses his deep gratitude and joy for the Thessalonian church, highlighting his concern for their faith in the face of adversity. He prays earnestly for their growth and unity, emphasizing the importance of love and holiness in their relationship with God and each other.
David vs. Goliath: The Battle Belongs to The Lord | 1 Samuel 17 | Brent Smith
The encounter between David and Goliath illustrates the stark contrast between faith and fear, showcasing how David’s trust in God allowed him to confront and conquer a seemingly unbeatable foe, encapsulating the reality of divine victory for the humble and faithful.
Standing Firm in Faith | 1 Thessalonians 3:1-8 | Brent Smith
In this passage, Paul expresses his deep concern for the Thessalonian believers, highlighting the importance of their faith amidst trials. He shares how he sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them, longing to hear about their faith and if they’re standing strong in the Lord.