Sermon on the Plain (Part 2): False Teachers

Dennis McCallum

Luke 6

Jesus teaches his audience the need for spiritual discernment in light of false teachers. False teachers have teachings that don't match scripture, use their authority for selfish gain, aren't accountable to others, lie about ministry, and pursue wealth. As Christians, we should expect false teachings and learn how to discern when they are in our midst, while looking to follow those who model servant leadership like Jesus and live out his Word.

Jesus' First Sermons

Dennis McCallum

Luke 4

Jesus' first teachings centered around God's Word as he simultaneously performed miracles. These miracles were used to authenticate Jesus' message, for symbolic teachings, and to demonstrate Jesus' authority over the demonic spirits and even death itself. Jesus Christ's message was for the humble and not the self-righteous, as he showed people's need for forgiveness through him apart from any human works.

The Self-Revelation of God

Gary DeLashmutt

Psalms 19

In Psalm 19, David talks about how God reveals Himself. He talks about how God's awesomeness is revealed through nature, how His character is revealed through His Word, and how we can expect to find Him in His Word when we approach it with humility. Will we willingly seek God out and His will for our lives?

How is the Bible Different from Other Scriptures?

Gary DeLashmutt

Luke 18:35

The Bible stands out from other scriptures in its accuracy of historical claims, and it's fulfilled prophecy. God chose to confirm His message to mankind through these verifiable claims. Some spiritual texts contradict history, while others make no verifiable claims.

Can There Be Only One Way to God?

Gary DeLashmutt

John 14:6

Religious relativism is a self defeating view, the idea that there is no objective truth is an objective truth claim. The religions and beliefs of this world are diverse and contradictory. We should search for truth through our experience of the world around us and based on what we can know.

What Is Biblical Faith?

Dennis McCallum

Romans 4

Turning to key figures from the Old Testament who would have been very well known to the Jewish Romans, Paul uses Abraham and David to explain what faith looks like. Faith is not equivalent to works, rituals, or the Law. Instead, it is a willingness to act based on God's truth with complete dependence on Him.

Framework For Successful Community

Gary DeLashmutt

Philippians 1:27-2:4

Paul writes to the Philippian Christians about the framework needed to have a successful Christian community. Believers share a common spirituality?being indwelt by the Holy Spirit?allowing them to be in fellowship with one another. They share the same source of truth?God's Word. Having the same access to truth enables them to love people in a godly way. Christians also share an understanding of Christ-like love and they have a common focus on reaching other people for Christ. All of these factors make for an enjoyable and deep community.

How to Fall Prey to Spiritual Deception

Gary DeLashmutt

2 Corinthians 11:1-21

The Corinthian Christians are being spiritually deceived, and Paul is motivated by godly jealousy to intervene. We are in the same situation today--spiritual deception is just as real, and spiritual intervention is just as important. If you want to avoid spiritual deception, pay primary attention to the objective content of the message. Those of us who are successfully avoiding spiritual deception have a responsibility to provide authentic spiritual direction for others! Be like Paul--be able to exemplify these qualities!

Being Ready

Dennis McCallum

Matthew 25:1-13

Focusing on prophecies and descriptions of the end times, there's a sense of urgency on what it means to be ready for Christ's return. No one knows when the last day will be, but in the same vein, no one knows when their personal last day will be. Because of this, all people are encouraged to investigate biblical Christianity. There are dangers of nominal Christianity for both Christians and non-Christians alike.