What does it mean to be free? There are many ways one can define freedom. Some may say that freedom is the absence of all rules. Others may say that freedom is a state of mind rather than a tangible reality. Freedom can also be contradictory. Andrew Willow said, “Your freedom to be you includes…
How would you define ‘family’? This is a loaded question. There is really no definite definition of ‘family.’ There is very little consensus on what constitutes a family. It can be understood sociologically, biologically, relationally, and even legally. However, for our study, it is important that our view of family is based on a biblical…
Several years ago I was preaching out of town. While in the hotel room, I flipped on the television and there was an intriguing church service broadcasted on a local channel. I do not recall the name of the church or the preacher but for some reason it caught my attention. Everyone in the congregation…
G. Campbell Morgan had already enjoyed some success as a preacher by the time he was 19 years old. But then he was attacked by doubts about the Bible. The writings of various scientists and agnostics disturbed him. As he read their books and listened to debates, Morgan became more and more perplexed. What did…
Jeremiah chapters 7-10 records the third sermon of Jeremiah. This particular sermon is one that is very heavy and convicting. This sermon was so bold that it nearly got Jeremiah killed. “In this courageous sermon, the prophet exposed the nation’s false worship (Jer. 7:1–8:3), their false prophets (8:4–22), their false confidence in the covenant they…
The Lord’s Supper, or communion, is a common practice in most churches of every denomination. The practice may differ from church to church, however, the purpose is the same: to remember the death of Christ on the cross. The best instructions given in God’s Word for the Lord’s Supper is found in 1 Corinthians 11:17-24.…
There are many things in the life of a believer in Christ that may be challenging as to whether or not something is appropriate. We are faced with decisions every day concerning our walk with the Lord and our pursuit of holiness. There may be times when a believer finds himself at a point of…
Every person has a story. Life is a journey full of interesting stories. The stories of our lives have taken us through times of great joy and times of unbearable grief. Thus, is this journey of life. Ups and downs, twists and turns; a common experience for all. In 2 Samuel we find an…
In the arena of leadership there are many different views concerning a philosophy of leading. Studies in leadership has produced and array of leadership tactics and has identified a number of leadership styles. There is much to learn in the school of leadership. Such discovery has no end. However, it is the purpose of this…
There are many things that people are afraid of. Common fears that people have include spiders, snakes, clowns, large crowds, small spaces, storms, among several others. However, the greatest fear that mankind should have is the fear of being separated from God. For believers in Christ, we do not have to fear separation from God…
I have always been a fan of bluegrass music. One of my favorite songs is by the Soggy Bottom Boys, Man of Constant Sorrow, known for its place in the movie O, brother where art thou. The words of the song depict a man who has seen many struggles throughout his life. The song says…
Have you ever come to an intersection that is difficult to navigate through? I remember years ago, there was a roundabout constructed near our home. All those country folks had no idea how to navigate through it. One time, I was behind a pick-up truck that starting into the roundabout and then slammed on…
What is the greatest need of the church? Some may say that we need better music. Some may say that we need better preaching. Some may say that we need to be more relevant. Some may say that we need to be more outward focused and missional. Others may say that we need to return…
One of the greatest needs of the local church is the development of a culture of serving. In this consumerism society in which we live, it is often expected that the church is here to serve me and meet my needs, rather than me serving the church. The Bible is clear that we are one…
Every now and then I enjoy a good road trip. It is fun to travel to new places and see new things. As you are traveling, it is important to pay attention to the road signs, particularly the mile signs. It is helpful to know how far you are from your destination. As you get…
Pastor Chris Noland 