Category: Providence

Esther lived, and came to the position of queen during a time of great evil. The Israelites were in peril. The time in which she lived mirrors closely some of the ills of our society:

• An immoral king
• A time of drunkenness and immodesty
• A time where marriage was not respected
• A time where life was devalued

However, it was also a time where God’s providence was active, and where one person could make a difference. Much like today!

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The sermon first establishes that all of God’s promises are sure. Then, discusses the following promises of God:

1. To supply every need we have.
2. That His grace is sufficient for us.
3. That His children will not be overtaken in temptation.
4. Victory over death.
5. That all things work together for good to those who love Him.
6. Those who believe and are baptized will be saved.
7. Eternal Life.

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Powerpoint Slides

In the first verse of our text, Paul establishes a wonderful promise of God as a steadfast principle. If we suffer for the cause of Christ, we are guaranteed the consolation that comes with that relationship. In other words, the suffering is worth it because of the hope we enjoy.

Paul illustrates the principle by noting the “trouble” he had suffered in Asia. This seems to be a reference to the mob scene in Ephesus recorded in Acts 19. Paul and his companions were in mortal peril on that occasion, and it seems that Paul left the area in fear (cf. Acts 20:1).

That fear of persecution remained, as such suffering is inevitable for the faithful child of God (cf. 2 Timothy 3:12). However, Paul took comfort in the trust he placed in God. God is able to raise men from the dead, and so surely would be able to deliver Paul, if it be in accord with His will. So Paul believed, “He will still deliver us” (vs. 10). As such, he coveted the prayers of the Corinthians in his behalf, that their prayers for him and his companions would effect God’s protection in their ministry.

Most are aware of the recent death of Brownwood firefighter Shannon Stone. The 30 year old died after falling from the stands at the Ballpark in Arlington on July 7, 2011. Stone was attempting to catch a ball for his 6 year old son, thrown to him by Josh Hamilton .

This was senseless tragedy, in every sense of the word. It was a horrific accident, and it seems that no real blame can be placed on any individual. The Rangers were careful to ensure the railing in left field exceeded the federal safety codes. Hamilton, in throwing the ball into the stands, did the same thing that others had done thousands of times before. Mr. Stone himself was not acting rashly, he simply slipped and fell. No one is to blame. Literally, no one.

Continue reading “Is It All God’s Plan?” →

This sermon uses the parable of the persistent widow to explain the importance of prayer, and the nature of God’s providence.

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Guest Speaker Dennis Scroggins describes the strength that Christians obtain as we contemplate the providence and care of God.

Lesson 3 of 9 in Gospel Meeting Series.

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This Sermon is an examination of Jesus’ commission to His disciples in Matthew 28:18-20 where He said, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

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Four little creatures, listed in Proverbs 30:24-26 (The ant, rock badger, locust and spider) teach us wise lessons about industry, God’s protection, unity and boldness in serving God.

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As Acts 8, with Philip preaching to the Eunuch shows, the Lord gives each of us opportunities to preach the gospel of our Lord.

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