URC Learning » Rev. John Sawtelle

Ephesians 5:15-21 | Filled with the Spirit

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 07:52:13 +0000

Often, the filling of the Spirit is erroneously identified with the baptism of the Spirit. The consequence of this false identification is that believers are pressured into speaking in tongues to prove that they are Spirit-filled (since charismatics incorrectly think that the baptism of the Spirit is normally attested by speaking in tongues). In this passage, Paul clarifies the nature of Spirit-filling, and shows that its consequence and fruit is living a godly life, not speaking in tongues.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_Ephesians_5_15-21.mp3

1Corinthians 12:13 | Baptism with the Spirit

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 07:50:34 +0000

Baptism of the Holy Spirit is often incorrectly identified as a second spiritual blessing, authenticated by speaking tongues, which comes upon Christians who urgently seek it through prayer and moral preparation. This understanding is thoroughly unbiblical, and this sermon exposes some of the proponents of this position along with the errors in their argument, and makes the case from scripture, that all Christians are baptized by the Spirit in their regeneration and conversion.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_12_12-13.mp3

1Corinthians 12:7-11 | The Extraordinary Gifts

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 04:46:56 +0000

Nine spiritual gifts, divided into two categories, action gifts and revelatory gifts, form Paul’s exposition of some of the extraordinary gifts designed to both confirm and communicate divine special revelation in the apostolic era. These gifts are called extraordinary since they were given to the church for a unique, brief, and temporary time during the age of the apostles.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_12_7-11.mp3

1Corinthians 12:4-6 | Spiritual Gifts Part 1

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 17:03:10 +0000

As a general overview of the kinds of spiritual gifts, Paul explains the Trinity supplies the spiritual gifts by means of a sovereign distribution.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_12_4-6.mp3

1Corinthians 12:1-3 | Concerning Spiritual Gifts

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:43:22 +0000

Undoubtedly, what Christians most commonly associate with 1st Corinthians, is Paul’s lenghty discussion of spiritual gifts. This sermon kicks off our study through this significant portion of scripture. Our aim will be to cover the text and teach Reformed Christians how to think about the extraordinary spiritual gifts in order that they might know what these gifts were, how they were used, and why they are no longer with the church.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_12_1-3.mp3

1Corinthians 11:17-34 | Unworthy Partakers

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:41:39 +0000

The Corinthian’s practice of the Lord’s Supper was so distorted that Paul says what they celebrated was not the Supper of the Lord (11:20). From the words of the institution of the Supper, Paul draws out three conclusions which are designed to correct the Corinthian distortions and which also serve as a guide for the churches understanding and practice of the eucharist (14:26,27,28).

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_11_17-34.mp3

1Corinthians 11:2-16 | The Difficult Problem of Headcoverings

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:39:07 +0000

For the temporary age when the extraordinary revelatory gifts were poured out upon men and women alike, Paul commands women to cover their heads when praying or prophesying in the public assembly. However, once the extraordinary revelatory gifts passed away, so did the requirement for women to wear a head covering in public worship. The main objection to this interpretation is the Pauline prohibition against women speaking aloud in the public assembly (1Cor. 14:34). This problem is relieved by interpreting the prohibition in context. Paul does not forbid every form of female vocal expression or participation in worship, rather, he forbids them from interpreting tongues and prophecy aloud (cf. 14:27,29). This interpretation assumes that the “praying” of 11:5 is the praying in tongues referenced in 14:14.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_11_1-16.mp3

1Corinthians 10:23-11:1 | Christianity in the Marketplace

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:31:26 +0000

This passage offers Pauline guidance on how Christians are to conduct themselves in the public square where faith and life intersect.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_10_23-end.mp3

1Corinthians 10:14-22 | Idolatry and Demons

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:29:49 +0000

Paul warns the Corinthians not to partake of meat sacrificed to idols, in an idols temple, because it involves a real communion with demons.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_10_14-22.mp3

Psalm 32 | Confession is good for the soul

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 23:14:58 +0000

Life experiences often teach valuable lessons. In David’s case, on the one hand, he learned that hiding sin from God led to physical and emotional pain, and a lack of spiritual joy, and on the other, he learned that confessing sin openly before God led to assurance of justification and true happiness. These life-lessons are the basis of David’s instruction to the saints in Psalm 32.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_Psalm_32.mp3

1 Corinthians 10:6-13 | Don’t crave evil things

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 23:10:01 +0000

Paul cites a series of examples from the wilderness period in Israel’s history which serve negatively to warn saints to not gratify sinful lusts. He concludes his admonition in v13 with a note of encouragement for those who struggle with sin.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_10_6-13.mp3

1 Corinthians 10:1-5 | Don’t be ignorant

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 16:18:28 +0000

As Paul turns back to his admonition about meat sacrificed to idols, he warns the Corinthians, from the history of Israel, that Christians ought not presume upon their baptism and participation in the means of grace if they don’t fight sin and persevere in faith.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_10_1-11.mp3

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 | Run to win

Rev. John Sawtelle — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 05:17:01 +0000

In a day and age when everyone gets a participation ribbon, Paul reframes our thinking about competition and says there is only one aim: win! Using a couple of different athletic metaphors Paul describes the kind of perseverance, discipline, and aim that is required in order not fall short of final salvation.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_9_24-27.mp3

1 Corinthians 9:15-18 | Woe is me if I preach not the gospel

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:16:40 +0000

In bringing the first section of this chapter to a conclusion, Paul explains why he does not exercise the liberty of taking a paycheck for his ministerial labors. The claim Paul advances is that his pay is preaching without compensation, so that no one will be able to remove his ground for boasting. It is difficult to find deeper insight into what moved Paul to serve as he did than what is disclosed in this passage here. Out of conscious awareness of his unworthiness to be a slave of Christ, as well as out of an appreciation for the objective value of the gospel, Paul sacrificed his all for the kingdom of God.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_9_15-18.mp3

1 Corinthians 9:4-14 | You work, you get paid

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 23:59:51 +0000

With two separate arguments, Paul defends the claim that he is entitled to financial compensation for ministerial labor. By establishing his right to be paid, Paul demonstrates that sometimes it is wise, and beneficial to others, to deny certain privileges to self in order to be a blessing to others.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_9_4-14.mp3

1 Corinthians 9:1-3 | Am I not an apostle?

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 17:26:34 +0000

As we come to chapter 9, it might seem that Paul has temporarily dropped the topic of meat offered to idols. In reality, Paul has not drifted off topic, he is simply addressing the same general topic from a different angle. This text marks the beginning of Paul’s argument for sacrificing personal liberty for the gain of other Christians by pointing the apostolic privileges he has sacrificed for the advancement of the gospel.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_9_1-3.mp3

1 Corinthians 8:7-13 | Strength is for edification, not destruction

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 17:24:37 +0000

Paul admonishes the Corinthians to moderate the use of their liberty in Christ. “Strong” Christians must be aware that “weaker brothers,” on account of their past, are sometimes constrained by their conscience not to engage in certain actions which may be lawful. In such cases, the “strong” must refrain from actions which may embolden the “weak” to defile their conscience by acting contrary to its guidance.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_8_7-13.mp3

1 Corinthians 8:1-6 | Things We All Know (Or Should Know)

Rev. John Sawtelle — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:03:44 +0000

In chapters 8-10 Paul takes on the issue of meat offered to idols, which the Corinthians have asked him about, and which is causing a measure of spiritual harm to some in the church. At the outset of his instruction, Paul reminds them of great foundational Christian truths and admonishes them to live in a manner consistent with them.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_8_1-6.mp3

1 Corinthians 7:25-40 | To Marry or Not to Marry That is The Question

Rev. John Sawtelle — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 18:57:47 +0000

Paul addresses a Corinthian question about the advisability of marriage under current circumstances of distress. Paul responds with five principles, which he calls “his opinion,” to provide them some guidelines to help navigate the issue responsibly.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_7_25-40.mp3

1 Corinthians 7:17-24 | Maintain Your Vocation

Rev. John Sawtelle — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 18:55:48 +0000

Transitioning from the topic of marriage to the topic of vocation, Paul maintains the theme he has been pursuing from verse one. In this passage, Paul warns against hastily abandoning one vocation in hopes of finding another which is more spiritual. Instead, each Christian is to discern God’s call upon their life and serve God faithfully in accordance with his divine call.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_7_17-24.mp3

1 Corinthians 7:10-16 | Divorce and Remarriage

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 02:14:52 +0000

Paul applies the Lord’s instruction to Christian married couples as well as addresses the problem of mixed marriages. Finally he concludes with one example of when it is lawful for a believer to divorce and remarry.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_7_10-16.mp3

1 Corinthians 7:1-9 | Marriage is Good

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 02:13:14 +0000

As Paul begins to respond to questions the Corinthians posed to him, he addresses one of their slogans, “it is better for a man not to touch a woman” which reflects their belief that celibacy is a more spiritually superior condition than marriage. Paul refutes that, arguing that marriage has been given by God to prevent sexual immorality, and makes the case the both husband wife are obligated to fulfill their conjugal duties towards each other.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_7_1-9.mp3

1 Corinthians 6:12-20 | Flee Immorality

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:28:46 +0000

Male sexual promiscuity was so prominent in Corinth that even some of the Corinthian believers viewed as similar to eating a meal to keep the body nourished. Paul explains the profound spiritual implications of sex and commands Christians to flee all sex outside of marriage.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_6_12-20.mp3

1 Corinthians 6:1-11 | How Dare You?

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:27:29 +0000

Brother was going against brother in Corinthian law courts and the result was the poor among the Corinthian Christians were left destitute. In response to this situation, Paul forbid all lawsuits between Christians brothers, commending a form of Christian mediation instead.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_6_1-11.mp3

1 Corinthians 5:9-13 | A Policy Of Engagement

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:26:19 +0000

Embedded in Paul’s clarification about associating with immoral people, is the missionary strategy employed by Jesus and his apostles. In order for the church to make a real impact for Christ, they must have personal contact with unbelievers. This message uses two concrete examples from the life of Christ, how the church must apply this policy of engagement in evangelism.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_5_9.mp3

1 Corinthians 5:1-13 | Church Discipline: Its Duty, Necessity, And Clarification

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:24:58 +0000

Church discipline is no mere option according to Paul. The danger of sin is that if it goes unchecked it will not only damage the straying sinner, it will also corrupt the whole church body.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_5.mp3

1 Corinthians 4:6-21 | Be Imitators Of Me

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:23:27 +0000

The center of Paul’s thought is found in v16 in his command to Christians to imitate his attitude and his way of life. In so doing, Christians will adorn a gospel humility and simultaneously cut down sinful pride.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_4_6-21.mp3

1 Corinthians 4:1-6 | Servants Of Christ And Stewards Of Mysteries

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:17:03 +0000

Paul explains that ministers are servants, not high profile personalities. Their duty is to serve the saints with the word, the mystery which is about Jesus Christ and him crucified.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_4_1-5.mp3

1 Corinthians 3:18-23 | Only Fools Are Wise

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:15:28 +0000

Paradox is sometimes used by crafty writers to challenge readers to deeper insights by placing apparently contradictory truths side by side. Paul uses paradox to communicate the duty of Christians to submit their thinking to scripture, rather than to intellectual fads.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_3_18-23.mp3

1 Corinthian 3:10-17 | Be Careful How You Build

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:13:03 +0000

Three reasons support Paul’s warning to pastors about how to build the church: the value of the church, the fact that God has prescribed how we are to build the church, and that ministerial labor will be either rewarded or judged according to the degree of their obedience to God’s rules for building His church.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_3_10-17.mp3

1 Corinthians 3:1-9 | God Causes The Increase

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:10:38 +0000

When it comes to salvation, human actors play a role in planting and irrigating, but ultimately, it is only by God’s sovereign grace that any sinner comes to Christ. Paul confronts the Corinthian failure to grasp that, which is manifested in their foolish and immature partisanship.

http://media.urclearning.org/audio/JS_1_Cor_3_1-9.mp3

Acts 2:14-36 | Peter’s Pentecost proclamation of the resurrected Christ

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 01 May 2009 17:49:59 +0000

Peter confronts the Jews with the facts of Christ’s empty tomb and explains that the bodily resurrection of Christ and the bodily ascension of Christ is the explanation for what they now see and hear.

1 Corinthian 3:10-17 | Be careful how you build

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 01 May 2009 17:48:50 +0000

1Corinthians 3:1-9 | God causes the increase

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 01 May 2009 17:47:06 +0000

1 Corinthians 2:10-16 | Holy Scripture vs. Lessing’s ugly ditch

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 03:58:20 +0000

The contingency of history, and the Bible’s character as a historical document, makes it an unreliable source from which to form judgments about absolute religious truth, since such an enormous gulf exists between the temporal and the eternal. Paul argues that God Himself scaled Lessing’s ugly ditch by revealing redemptive, divine truth to his apostles and prophets, then God illumined that revelation to their minds, and finally God gave them the very words to communicate that truth.

1 Corinthians 2:6-9 | Wisdom out of this world

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 03:54:12 +0000

Does Paul preach “wisdom” after all? Well, not really. The “wisdom” Paul preaches a “wisdom” which is a mystery, hidden yet predestined before the world. He preaches the gospel, the kind of wisdom unknown to the rulers of this age.

1 Corinthians 1:26-31 | The Virus of Triumphalism

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 08:14:15 +0000

Paul critiques the divisions in Corinth from a new angle when he argues that they flow from an immoderate desire to “be somebody.” To show the church how foolish that motivation is, he reminds them of what they were not: wise, influential, or well bread. Then, he points out that it was by God’s grace alone, that they are in Christ.

1 Corinthians 1:17-25 | The Foolishness of the Cross vs. the Word of Wisdom

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 07:12:57 +0000

Paul argues that the divisions in Corinth reflect fallen human ideals of power and wisdom. The key to church unity is to embrace the ideology of the cross which is a stumbling-block to the Jews and foolishness to the Greeks.

1 Corinthians 1:10-16 | A Call to Unity

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 06:49:03 +0000

Paul admonishes the Corinthian church that unifying in doctrine and practice is an item of first importance.

1 Corinthians | An Overview: Closing the gap!

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 04:46:23 +0000

Luther described believers as people who are simul justus et peccator: simultaneously justified and sinners. What he meant was that there is a gap between our legal standing in Christ, and our lives in this world. Paul writes First Corinthians with a similar distinction in view, calling on these believers to close the gap between what they are in Christ, and how they are living in the world.

1 Peter 1:5 | Perseverance of the Saints

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 18:48:55 +0000

John 6:35-45 | Irresistible Grace

Rev. John Sawtelle — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 04:52:55 +0000

Irresistible grace means God never fails to bring his elect to Christ for their salvation. Jesus gives the basis of this doctrine in the “Bread of Life” discourse in John 6:26-59.

John 10:1-30 | Limited Atonement

Rev. John Sawtelle — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:11:10 +0000

There are only two ways of conceiving of the extent of the atonement: either Jesus died for no one, or Jesus died for someone. This message makes the case from Scripture that Jesus died for “someone,” that is, his sheep, his people, and his church. Jesus died for a definite number of people on the cross, and for that definite number of people there is justification, redemption, reconciliation, and propitiation.

Romans 9:1-24 | Unconditional Election

Rev. John Sawtelle — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:02:51 +0000

Is God unfair because he chooses one unto salvation and not the other? Paul says “no way;” the sovereign creator is free to display His divine character through his creatures.

Genesis 3:1-24 | Total Depravity

Rev. John Sawtelle — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 04:32:04 +0000

No passage of scripture better explains the origins of sin, corruption, and death than Genesis 3 which relates the historical narrative of man’s fall and God’ promise of a champion who will reverse sins devastation and restore righteousness and life to fallen men.

Psalm 32 | Confession is Good for the Soul

Rev. John Sawtelle — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 04:22:16 +0000

David contrasts two stages in his spiritual experience, one of agony and one of blessing; then, David explains that the rout to blessing is confessing sins to the Lord.

Joshua 20-21 | Cities of Refuge

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 17:34:00 +0000

Cities of refuge serve as an OT pointer to the free offer of the gospel and the open invitation to receive pardon through the grace of Christ.

Matthew 2:1-12 | Unexpected

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 02:21:50 +0000

Matthew teaches the duty of worshiping the incarnate Son through the unexpected means of the magi’s visit.

Mark 7:24-30 | Crumbs for a Dog

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 02:19:28 +0000

Faith accesses the mercies of Christ, while Christ conquers demonic possession.

Joshua 23-24 | Choose This Day Whom You Will Serve

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 02:16:16 +0000

Joshua challenges Israel to cling to the Lord by faith and then serve him through continual obedience.

Joshua 14-19 | A Profile in Kingdom Courage

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 01:37:33 +0000

At the ripe old age of 85, Caleb models true kingdom discipleship by seizing his inheritance and driving out the Anakim.

Joshua 13, 22 | Sibling rivalry and the Transjordanian inheritance

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 16:08:00 +0000

A church split nearly occurs as Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh take possession of their inheritance east of the Jordan.

Joshua 10:28-12:24 | Thus the land had rest

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 16:06:22 +0000

By the obedience of Joshua to the principles of holy war, Israel secures the land of Canaan as their possession and enter into the promised rest.

Colossians 1:24-29 | Christ We Preach

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 06:01:44 +0000

Paul proclaims Christ in order that he might fulfill the goal of his ministry which is to present Christian’s complete in Christ at judgment day.

Joshua 10:1-27 | Sun, stand still

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 05:58:52 +0000

The Lord fights for his people and harnesses the powers of nature to defeat His enemies.

Joshua 9:1-27 | On the Brink of Har-Maggedon

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 05:56:37 +0000

As the kings of Canaan gather together to make war against Israel, the covenant people fall prey to Gibeon’s deception and make a covenant with the false church.

Joshua 8:1-35 | Conquest and Covenant

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 05:54:46 +0000

Conquest leads to covenant, but the last picture we receive of the conquest of Ai, the hanging of Ai’s king, functions as a window to Israel’s future as they renew the covenant at Shechem.

Joshua 7:1-26 | Stones of judgment and a door of hope

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:25:26 +0000

Achan’s sin bring God’s swift judgment upon Israel through a crushing military defeat at the hands of Ai; however, Joshua’s stoning of Achan in the Valley of Achor prepares an opening for a door of hope.

Joshua 5:13-6:27 | What we learn from Jericho’s ruins

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:22:46 +0000

The “divine warrior” leads Israel in a violent destruction of Jericho as symbol of the dreadful and climactic coming of the Lord in judgment upon fallen mankind at the end of the age.

Joshua 5:1-12 | Rolling back the reproach of Egypt

Rev. John Sawtelle — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:48:49 +0000

God in his grace reaffirms his covenant with Israel, circumcising the sons of Israelite rebels, granting them a title to the promised inheritance.

Joshua 3-4 | The stones proclaim God’s power

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 05:49:11 +0000

12 stones stand west of the Jordan to this day proclaiming God’s power in leading Israel through the Jordan waters into the promised rest of Canaan .

Joshua 2:1-24 | A pagan prostitute proclaims God’s promises

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 05:46:47 +0000

God uses the words of the pagan prostitute Rahab to confirm his promise of conquest and possession of the land of Canaan to the people of Israel.

2 Timothy 1:1-8 | Fan the gift into a flame

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 07:45:58 +0000

Paul commands Timothy to keep his God-given gift into flame in order to maximize his usefulness in serving the church.

Joshua 1:1-9 | On the brink of promise

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:21:06 +0000

As Israel stands on the brink of the promised land, God comes to charge Joshua with the task of taking the land.

Romans 1:16-17 | Don’t be ashamed of the gospel!

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:20:34 +0000

Paul explains why he is eager to preach the gospel, giving two distinct reasons: one, it is the power of God to salvation; and two, in it, justifying righteousness is held out to sinners.

Philippians 4:10-23 | Thanks again!

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:29:10 +0000

Paul concludes the letter to the Philippians by thanking them for their financial support and explains the basis for his joy in their sacrificial support of his apostolic ministry.

Philippians 4:8-9 | The God of Peace

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:28:30 +0000

Two commands point to the conditions of God dwelling in blessing with the believer: thinking and doing.

Philippians 4:4-7 | The Cure for an Anxious Heart

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:27:44 +0000

Paul tackles the problem of anxiety by commanding prayer and promising God’s peace in return.

Philippians 4:1-3 | What can we learn from two quarreling women?

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 30 May 2008 00:52:35 +0000

As Paul moves to apply sound doctrine to Christian life, he points us to a quarrel between two prominent Christian women and admonishes us to resolve relationship problems through prudent means, in order to promote the cause of the gospel.

Psalm 131 | Hope in the Lord

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 22:37:02 +0000

The Psalmist teaches God’s people that trusting daily in God’s grace leads us to live with great peace of mind as we face the challenges of daily life.

Philippians 3:4-11 | Losing all to gain Christ

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 22:33:23 +0000

Paul’s meeting with the resurrected Christ on the road to Damascus radically changed his mind and his life, and enabled him to leave everything behind in order gain Christ.

Philippians 3:1-4 | We are the circumcision

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 22:32:46 +0000

Self-mutilation is not the path to salvation; experiencing the sovereign grace of Christ is, so, the admonition is to hang on to the person of Christ, not the empty Old Testament shadows.

Philippians 2:19-30 | Kingdom seekers

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 22:29:51 +0000

Paul indicates that there are ultimately only two kinds of people, kingdom seekers and self-seekers. Christians are to be warned that there is no in-between category.

Philippians 2:14-18 | Prove your sonship

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 22:26:33 +0000

Paul argues that by living blamelessly and holding fast to the word of life, you are living as a missionary.

Philippians 2:12-13 | Work out your salvation

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 22:25:23 +0000

In view of the God’s sovereign grace in salvation, Paul calls Christians to progress in sanctification by God’s grace through the Holy Spirit.

Philippians 1:19-26 | To live is Christ

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 22:23:19 +0000

Paul reveals his heart, which is to live for Christ’s glory.

2 Peter 3:10 | Like a thief in the night

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 22:14:41 +0000

Peter assures believers that Christ will come and bring with him a new heavens and a new earth and admonishes believers to a form of behavior which is consistent with their hope.

2 Peter 3:1-10 | The future will be like the past

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 22:12:27 +0000

Peter unravels the logic of scoffers who reject the bodily return of Christ, and grounds future certainty of Christ’s bodily return, in the past acts of God.

2 Peter 2:17 | Three effects of false teachers

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 13:08:01 +0000

Peter exposes the false teachers by the unfolding the dreadful effects that accompany their “ministry.”

2 Peter 2:17

What does it mean to be a Protestant? | part 5: To God be the glory

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 21:49:44 +0000

Since God has redeemed sinners by sovereign grace, then He not only receives all the glory for their salvation, but He has the right to receive glory from all that Christians do. Paul proclaims that the aim and goal of Christian living is the glory of God. Whether it is eating, drinking, engaging in commerce, or eating meat offered to idols outside the temple, God’s is to be glorified.

1 Corinthians 10:23-33

What does it mean to be a Protestant? | part 4: Faith alone

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 21:46:52 +0000

If a contemporary person were to ask any of the Protestant Reformers what the Reformation was all about, to a man, they would say it was about justification by faith alone. Justification by faith alone was so central to the Reformation that Protestants boldly called this the doctrine upon which the church stands or falls. Paul teaches this great doctrine to the Galatians, explaining that justification is by faith in Christ alone, apart from any works.

Galatians 2:16

What does it mean to be a Protestant? | part 3: Grace alone

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 21:45:16 +0000

The wonder of salvation by grace alone can only be grasped by first realizing not only the sinful condition of men apart from Christ, but the spiritually dead condition of men in Adam. Since man is dead, he cannot take a single step toward salvation, unless God first makes him alive in Jesus Christ. Paul explains that salvation by grace alone is God making us alive when we were dead in sin. Because salvation is a gift of life to spiritually dead people, it follows that men don’t perform any works in order to save themselves, and therefore, they have no grounds for boasting.

Ephesians 2:1-10

What does it mean to be a Protestant? | part 2: Christ alone

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 21:43:37 +0000

Protestants insist that salvation is in Christ alone. The church doesn’t supply salvation and men don’t work for it, rather, Christ alone secures salvation and applies it to his elect. Paul grounds the argument for Christ Alone in the two-Adam structure of redemptive history, showing how all of God’s dealings with humanity are through these two men. Those in the 1st Adam are assured of eternal condemnation, while those who are in the second Adam, Jesus Christ, are assured of justification and eternal life.

Romans 5:12-19

What does it mean to be a Protestant? | part 1: Scripture alone

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 14:30:34 +0000

Luther’s pithy response at the Diet of Worms, “Here I stand on the Word of God alone. I can do no other. So help me God” summarizes the foundational truth of Protestantism, scripture alone. The final and objective authority for the church is the word of God alone. This message examines the meaning of this Protestant sola and shows its basis in scripture.

2 Timothy 3:14-4:3

2 Peter 1:3-4 | Grace is for godliness

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 08 Jul 2007 21:54:46 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (42:35)
Taking a preemptive swipe at the false teachers who have invaded the churches, Peter proclaims both gospel and law to the saints. He encourages the church with the message of sovereign grace in Christ, and then calls them to a life of godliness.

Sermon text: 2 Peter 1:3-4

2 Peter 1:1-2 | Introduction to Second Peter

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 04:54:00 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (48:07)

This sermon in the first in a series on 2nd Peter. It examines the main issues of the book: who, when, where, and what.

Sermon text: 2 Peter 1:1-2

1 Peter 5:12-14 | Farewell to First Peter

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 04:42:50 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (42:34)

In this final farewell to the “elect strangers” Peter summarizes the contents of this letter as “exhortations” (law) and “declarations” of the true grace of God (gospel), and then calls the saints to “stand fast” in this grace. Using Peter’s categories, this message provides a brief look back at the letter and concludes with some final exhorations.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 5:12-14

1 Peter 5:8-11 | Sober up

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 04:41:01 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (44:17)

Peter warns the saints that we have a common foe who stalks us like a predator does his prey, and that enemy is the devil. This message examines Satan’s devices and warns Christians to be sober-minded in order to prevent being taken captive by his devices.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 5:8-11

1 Peter 5:5-7 | Humble yourselves

Rev. John Sawtelle — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:15:56 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (40:27)

One last time Peter returns to the issue of community relationships and in this instance commands adorning humility for the purpose of promoting healthy relationships in Christ’s church. This message examines the command, reason and process of humbling ourselves for the sake of others.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 5:5-7

1 Peter 5:1-5 | To the shepherds of God’s flock

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sat, 12 May 2007 03:08:25 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (49:27)

Leadership is essential to the health and progress of human institutions and the church is no exception. Peter admonishes the elders of the church to take the oversight of God’s people through effective shepherding born out of out of proper motives.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 5:1-5
Support text: Ezekiel 9:1-6

1 Peter 4:12-19 | Fire in God’s house

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 06 May 2007 01:58:50 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (44:29)

In this passage, Peter returns once again to the theme of suffering. This time he gives his most complete explanation of Christian suffering by applying the Malachi 3 prophecy of the Lord coming into His temple to the New Testament church. Fiery trials will be the lot of every true Christian because the Lord sits in His temple, the church, and refines His people through sufferings in order to fit them for His worship and service.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 4:12-19

1 Peter 3:7 | Husbands, understand your wives!

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 06 May 2007 01:55:59 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (34:57)

Husbands, the way you treat your wives is so important to God that He ties the efficacy of your prayer life to your obedience to this command. This message is an important reminder to men that loving leadership in the home is not only the key to a sound marriage but also a key to a healthy spiritual life.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 3:7

1 Peter 4:10-11 | Spiritual gifts for Christian service

Rev. John Sawtelle — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 12:52:42 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (36:31)

Evangelicals, and disappointingly, far too many Reformed believers, imagine that fulfilling the command to use gifts received from the Holy Spirit is as easy as taking a so-called “spiritual inventory” test to discover which gift(s) they have. Such a concept is fatally flawed. This message explores the Biblical meaning of spiritual gifts, and then offers guidance for how to use those gifts within the church body.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 4:10-11

1 Peter 4:9 | The hospitality mandate

Rev. John Sawtelle — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 12:23:09 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (50:16)

Hospitality was a leading characteristic of the early church. Historians, scholars and even early primary source documents record how characteristic it was for Christians to show hospitality to one another and to strangers. Peter sets forth the Biblical mandate for this hopsitality, commanding believers to exercise it toward one another as they wait for the coming of the Lord.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 4:9

1 Corinthians 15:1-19 | Resurrection or carpe diem

Rev. John Sawtelle — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 12:14:59 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (38:58)

Recently one of the producers of “The Jesus Family Tomb” project said that finding Jesus bones did not present a challenge to his Christian faith because he could conceive of a different kind of resurrection. The scriptures however, know of only one kind of resurrection of Jesus and that is a bodily resurrection. In this message, the implications of denying a bodily resurrection are explored and then facts suppporting a bodliy resurrection of Jesus are presented to refute attacks and encourage believers.

Sermon text: 1 Corinthians 15:1-19

1 Peter 4:8 | Love the brethren!

Rev. John Sawtelle — Sun, 08 Apr 2007 02:44:36 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (46:39)

Scripture repeatedly emphasizes the ethical priority of love, but Christians tend to repeatedly deemphasize it because it is perhaps our greatest challenge on account of our selfishness. This message admonishes Christians to prioritize this command, by demonstrating why its a priority from several different scriptures and by showing its great signficance for building Christian community.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 4:8

1 Peter 3:18-22 | Encouragement for the afflicted

Rev. John Sawtelle — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 05:10:53 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (44:14)

Generally speaking, First Peter is written so clearly that its doctrines and admonitions are accessible and understable to the average reader. However, that rule is put to the test in this passage. Though difficult to understand, the main line of thought is clear, and that is, that Peter is encouraging God’s people to endure suffering for testifying about Christ through pointing them to Christ’s example of suffering, Christ’s preaching through Noah and Christ’s exaltation to the right hand of God in heaven.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 3:13-22

1 Peter 3:13-17 | To every man an answer

Rev. John Sawtelle — Thu, 08 Mar 2007 03:13:11 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (46:07)

Two common responses to suffering for the sake of the gospel are running or retaliating. Over against these unbiblical responses, Peter teaches that we are to keep our composure and make a cogent presentation of the Christian faith to those who ask.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 3:13-17

1 Peter 3:8-12 | How to obtain a blessing

Rev. John Sawtelle — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 05:17:24 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (51:38)

Peter teaches that God places such a premium on how we treat fellow believers in the church and unbelievers in the world, that He ties the enjoyment of spiritual blessing to our behavior toward others. Before you discard this message, please take a moment to understand the meaning of this passage and see whether it doesn’t challenge the way you look at the significance of your behavior toward others.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 3:8-12

Wives, submit!?

Rev. John Sawtelle — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 05:53:40 +0000

LISTEN BY CLICKING HERE (40:22)

The Biblical mandate for wives to submit to husbands is touchy topic in today’s world and is sure to generate a passionate response. This message sidesteps the contemporary criticisms of the political correctness establishment, and focuses instead on breaking down the duty, character and spiritual significance of submission.

Sermon text: 1 Peter 3:1-6