It is a mark of grace to be a witness for the Lord Jesus Christ.

Our first preparatory sermon looking at the subject of worldliness among Christians.

Tyler Ray - Fall Communion Season 2026

This sermon concludes a study on the doctrine of the church by examining the relationship between local congregations and the broader body of believers. It argues that while each local church is autonomous and self-governing, they are not isolated entities but are bound by a general obligation to pray for and support one another. The text explores the biblical precedent for inter-church connection, citing examples of shared resources and mutual care in the New Testament. The discussion emphasizes the concept of 'holding communion together' as a formal association of like-minded churches that provides counsel and encouragement without exercising jurisdictional authority over individual congregations. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to recognize their regional and global responsibilities while maintaining the distinct authority of the local church.

Study in the 1689 Second London Baptist Confession of Faith

This sermon emphasizes the critical importance of actively pursuing holiness and purifying oneself from sin, arguing that sin is not merely a natural infirmity but a direct transgression of God's law and an act of opposition against Him. The speaker urges believers to reject the casual attitude of being 'just a sinner saved by grace' and instead recognize that every act of sin breaks communion with God and wastes irreplaceable opportunities for spiritual growth. Drawing on 1 John 3:4 and supporting texts from the Old and New Testaments, the message highlights that God has provided all necessary means for purification, including the Word of God and the intercession of Christ. The tone is convicting yet encouraging, asserting that the struggle against sin is a duty for every believer and that casting off sin leads to overflowing joy rather than depression. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a fervent, ongoing effort to step into the light, confess sins, and turn away from them to maintain a close relationship with God.

This devotional explores the paradox of the cross as presented in 1 Corinthians 1, highlighting how the message of Christ crucified appears as foolishness to the world but stands as the power of God for those who believe. The text contrasts human wisdom and strength with divine wisdom and power, emphasizing that God chose to save believers through the seemingly weak and foolish means of the gospel rather than through signs or intellectual debate. The preacher underscores the humility of God's chosen method, where ordinary sinners proclaim the message of redemption, and invites the congregation to reflect on this truth as they prepare for the Lord's Supper. The central theme is the sufficiency of Christ's atoning work, which transcends human understanding and serves as the ultimate wisdom and strength for the church.

This sermon explores the principles of service and sacrifice found in Mark 1:35-39, emphasizing that Jesus's primary motivation for leaving Capernaum was not rejection but a higher priority to fulfill the Father's will. The central message argues that believers must establish a hierarchy of priorities, beginning with intimate communion with God in prayer, which provides the spiritual discernment needed to navigate ministry opportunities. By analyzing John 14:12, the text distinguishes between the specific, miraculous works of Christ and the universal call for all believers to continue His work through faith working by love. This continuity is expressed not necessarily through identical methods, but through the shared ministry of reconciliation and the proclamation of the gospel, which constitutes the 'greater work' of bringing spiritual life. The sermon concludes with a pastoral exhortation to remain faithful in one's specific calling, trusting that God equips and directs those who abide in Him, thereby finding true blessing in the act of serving.

"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)

Matt Furse

Tyler Ray - Fall Communion Season 2026