Central Sermon Series

Be Revolutionary (Matthew 7:21-29)

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 01:58:23 +0000

In this episode, we delve into the final words of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, exploring the profound teachings found in Matthew 7:21-29. We reflect on the significance of these verses, emphasizing the importance of not just hearing but also practicing Jesus' teachings to build a strong and resilient life. The episode draws parallels between the biblical message and real-life examples, such as the experiences of Olympic athletes Steven Sabino and Alex Walsh, to illustrate the consequences of actions and the importance of a solid foundation. We discuss the warnings against false disciples and the necessity of genuine faith and actions. The episode concludes with a prayer for strength, resilience, and community support in living out these teachings.

(00:00) Introduction and Context of the Sermon on the Mount

(01:49) Warnings Against False Disciples

(04:52) Building a Strong and Resilient Life

(05:53) Olympic Anecdotes and Life Lessons

(13:29) Practical Steps for Resilience

(15:07) Conclusion and Prayer

Matthew 7:21-29
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.

Central is proud to be a place

where all generations worship, grow, and serve together.
where women and men have equal opportunities for leadership.
where traditional worship is engaged with excellence.
and where diverse approaches to Christian faith and theology all find themselves at home under the lordship of Christ.

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Want to learn more about Central? Visit our website at centralbaptistnewnan.org or give us a call at 770-683-0610.

Be Self-Aware (Matthew 7:1-6)

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 01:44:17 +0000

In this episode, we delve into the concept of self-awareness through a mix of personal anecdotes and biblical teachings. Rev. Matt Sapp begins by recounting a personal story involving a family member who was unaware that her car tag had been expired for three years, using this as a segue into the importance of self-awareness. This sets the stage for a deeper discussion on self-awareness, inspired by Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount that explores both sides of the self-awareness coin: recognizing our own faults and valuing the most precious parts of who we are.

Drawing from Matthew chapter 7, the he emphasizes the need to avoid hypocrisy by first addressing our own flaws before criticizing others. The episode also touches on the importance of protecting the sacred and vulnerable parts of our identity, urging listeners to nurture and honor these aspects.

He also shares a paraphrased version of the Sermon on the Mount, reimagined as a graduation speech, to illustrate the timeless relevance of these teachings. The episode concludes with reflections on living a meaningful life now, rather than waiting for some future moment of truth. Inspired by Oliver Burkeman's book, '4000 Weeks,' the host encourages listeners to embrace their flaws and sacred dreams, living fully into who they are meant to be right now.

(00:00) The Arduous Process of Car Tag Renewal in Georgia

(02:12) A Hectic Move and an Expired Car Tag

(03:38) The Importance of Self Awareness

(07:40) Reflection on Self Assessment

(11:13) Living a Provisional Life vs. Real Life

Matthew 7:1-6
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.

Central is proud to be a place

where all generations worship, grow, and serve together.
where women and men have equal opportunities for leadership.
where traditional worship is engaged with excellence.
and where diverse approaches to Christian faith and theology all find themselves at home under the lordship of Christ.

Be Measured (Matthew 6 19-34)

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 01:40:16 +0000

In this episode, we delve into the teachings of Jesus from Matthew chapter 6, focusing on the themes of wealth and worry. As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, we reflect on how these two aspects are deeply ingrained in American culture. Jesus' message is clear: do not worry about material possessions and instead seek God's kingdom first. We explore the connection between wealth and worry, and how our modern anxieties are not so different from those of the people who first heard the Sermon on the Mount.

We discuss the staggering statistics of mental health issues in America, despite our unprecedented wealth, and how Jesus' teachings remain relevant today. The episode also highlights the importance of focusing on God's kingdom and righteousness, rather than material accumulation and appearance.

Join us as we explore how to transition from storing up treasures on earth to storing up treasures in heaven, and how to lessen our worries by actively participating in God's work. This episode is a reminder that true wealth lies in giving and serving others, and that by doing so, we can create a world that reflects God's kingdom.

(00:01) Introduction and Gospel Reading

(01:35) Wealth and Worry in America

(04:23) Modern Anxiety and Historical Context

(07:10) The Futility of Excess

(11:04) Seeking God's Kingdom First

(12:23) Community Missions and Impact

(17:03) The Antidote to Wealth and Worry

Matthew 6:19-24
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

Lamentations 3:22-33
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young. Let him sit alone in silence, for the Lord has laid it on him. Let him bury his face in the dust—there may yet be hope. Let him offer his cheek to one who would strike him, and let him be filled with disgrace. For no one is cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to anyone.

Matthew 6:25-34
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Central is proud to be a place

where all generations worship, grow, and serve together.
where women and men have equal opportunities for leadership.
where traditional worship is engaged with excellence.
and where diverse approaches to Christian faith and theology all find themselves at home under the lordship of Christ.

Be Interesting (Matthew 5 13-16)

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 01:33:41 +0000

Today, we focus on identity. Jesus tells us that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. These identity statements are crucial for understanding our purpose. Salt adds flavor and preserves, while light illuminates and fosters growth. Jesus teaches us to be interesting and to live in a way that points others to God. He emphasizes that we were created to stand out, not blend in.

We reflected on the movie 'Stand by Me' and how knowing who we are and where we're going can be empowering. Jesus' teachings give us that clarity. Imagine sitting on that hillside in Galilee, hearing Jesus affirm that we were created to be different, to make a difference. It's a grand vision that inspires us to dream bigger.

We also touched on a memorable 'Carpool Karaoke' segment with James Corden and Paul McCartney, which beautifully illustrated the impact of using our gifts to be salt and light in the world. Today's message is about embracing our identities in Christ and using our gifts to make a meaningful impact. Jesus reminds us that we are the light of the world, and we should live fully into that identity.

(00:01) Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount Series

(01:05) Review of Previous Sermons

(02:15) Jesus' Teachings on Identity

(08:00) The Importance of Knowing Who You Are

(12:40) Paul McCartney and the Power of Positivity

(16:07) Embracing Our Identity in Christ

Matthew 5:13-16
"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Central is proud to be a place

where all generations worship, grow, and serve together.
where women and men have equal opportunities for leadership.
where traditional worship is engaged with excellence.
and where diverse approaches to Christian faith and theology all find themselves at home under the lordship of Christ.

Be Holy (Matthew 5 17-37)

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 00:04:45 +0000

In this episode, we delve into the impressive capabilities of SpaceX's Falcon Heavy Rocket, the largest rocket in existence today. We explore its immense power, capable of producing over 5,000,000 pounds of thrust, and its ability to carry payloads up to 140,000 pounds. The rocket's journey, whether to Mars or into orbit, requires a significant amount of fuel, with one-third used in the first mile alone to overcome inertia.

We then draw a fascinating parallel between the rocket's launch and the acceleration phase of a 100-meter dash in track and field. Just as the rocket needs a powerful start to overcome inertia, sprinters must maximize their force application in the first few steps to achieve top speed.

Transitioning to a spiritual perspective, we discuss the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5 through 7. The teachings of Jesus present a different story about the world, one that requires overcoming the inertia of the status quo to live in a new way. We explore the concept of holiness, distinguishing it from mere self-improvement. Holiness, as Jesus teaches, is about being wholly devoted to the work and will of God, rather than focusing on personal betterment.

We challenge the traditional checklist approach to holiness, exemplified by the Pharisees, and emphasize the importance of valuing and protecting others. Jesus' teachings call for a shift from personal righteousness to an active interest in the well-being of our fellow human beings, even at our own expense. This episode encourages listeners to rethink their understanding of holiness and embrace a life devoted to God's work.

(00:00) Introduction to the Falcon Heavy Rocket

(01:31) US Track and Field Olympic Trials

(05:27) The Sermon on the Mount: Overcoming Inertia

(07:00) Redefining Holiness

(12:21) The Righteousness of the Pharisees vs. God's Righteousness

(17:23) Holiness and the Protection of Others

(19:05) Closing Prayer

Matthew 5:17-37
"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, 'Raca,' is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell. "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. "Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny. "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. "It has been said, 'Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.' But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery. "Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.' But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.

Central is proud to be a place

where all generations worship, grow, and serve together.
where women and men have equal opportunities for leadership.
where traditional worship is engaged with excellence.
and where diverse approaches to Christian faith and theology all find themselves at home under the lordship of Christ.

Be Generous (Matthew 5:38-48)

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 23:49:37 +0000

In this episode, Julie reads a passage from "The House at Pooh Corner" where Pooh and Rabbit discuss the comforting nature of counting honey pots. This light-hearted conversation transitions into a deeper reflection on generosity, inspired by Jesus' teachings from the Sermon on the Mount. The host explores the contrast between the human desire for fairness and the Christian call to generosity, emphasizing that fairness is not the ultimate standard for Christians. The episode also delves into historical contexts, comparing the burdens faced by American colonists under British rule with those of Jews under Roman occupation. Through these stories, the host illustrates the radical nature of Jesus' message to be generous, even to those who wrong us. The episode concludes with a touching story about a retired missionary who was motivated by his son's innocent question to make a difference in the world. Listeners are encouraged to adopt an ethic of generosity in all aspects of their lives, reflecting God's mercy and love.

(00:01) Introduction and Winnie the Pooh Reading

(01:12) Comfort vs. Generosity

(02:05) Sermon on the Mount: Generosity in Action

(03:18) Historical Context: Third Amendment and Roman Rule

(06:00) Jesus' Teachings on Generosity

(08:30) Ethic of Fairness vs. Ethic of Generosity

(13:33) Fairness and Generosity in Christian Life

(14:48) Story of Don Sewell: A Lesson in Generosity

(17:00) Conclusion: Be Generous

Matthew 5:38-48
"You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Central is proud to be a place

where all generations worship, grow, and serve together.
where women and men have equal opportunities for leadership.
where traditional worship is engaged with excellence.
and where diverse approaches to Christian faith and theology all find themselves at home under the lordship of Christ.

Be Happy (Matthew 5:1-12)

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 23:49:04 +0000

In this episode, we delve into the profound teachings of Jesus as presented in the Sermon on the Mount, specifically focusing on the Beatitudes. As we kick off our 2024 summer study at Central, we reflect on the significance of these teachings, which have transcended religious boundaries to influence broader culture and ethics. The Beatitudes, with their counterintuitive blessings, challenge our conventional beliefs and invite us to embrace a new vision of how the world works. We explore how Jesus' words, though shocking to his original audience, continue to provoke thought and inspire action today. Through anecdotes and reflections, we underscore the importance of not just believing in Jesus but also living out his teachings. Join us as we embark on this transformative journey through one of the most important bodies of teaching in all of scripture.

(00:00) Introduction and the Beatitudes

(01:07) The Importance of the Sermon on the Mount

(03:13) Understanding the Beatitudes

(06:02) Believing and Practicing Jesus' Teachings

(07:41) The Basics of Faith and Ethics

(11:23) Modern Interpretations of the Beatitudes

(14:00) Applying the Teachings in Everyday Life

Matthew 5:1-12
Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them. He said: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Central is proud to be a place

where all generations worship, grow, and serve together.
where women and men have equal opportunities for leadership.
where traditional worship is engaged with excellence.
and where diverse approaches to Christian faith and theology all find themselves at home under the lordship of Christ.

Unpacking the Sermon on the Mount: Lessons for Today

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 21:22:42 +0000

Season 1 of Central Sermon Series embarks on a study of the Sermon on the Mount with Rev. Matt Sapp's summer 2024 sermons. The Sermon on the Mount is one of the most important and extended bodies of teaching in all of scripture, and its impact extends well beyond our faith. These three chapters of uninterrupted teaching from Christ have influenced the larger culture and even the entire Western world.

In a time when fewer people are familiar with the history and basic teachings of our faith, many still have some passing familiarity with the teachings of Jesus presented in the Sermon on the Mount. Phrases like "Turn the other cheek," "The golden rule: do unto others as you would have them do unto you," "Blessed are the peacemakers," "Do not judge, or you too will be judged," "No one can serve two masters," "You cannot serve both God and money," "Don't worry about tomorrow; today has enough worries of its own," and even the Lord's Prayer are all found in these three chapters of uninterrupted teaching from Jesus in Matthew chapters 5 through 7.

These teachings are so impactful that they have permeated the larger culture, making even those who are unsure about the Christian faith recognize them as good advice for living a fulfilling and worthwhile life.

10 Lessons From the Sermon on the Mount

Be Happy (Matthew 5:1-12): Happiness isn’t found in most of the places most of us most often seek it.
Be Interesting (Matthew 5:13-16): You were created to stand out, not blend in.
Be Holy (Matthew 5:17-37): Holiness is not about self-improvement; it is an other-directed activity.
Be Generous (Matthew 5:38-48): Jesus calls us to a standard higher than fairness. Be generous.
Be Humble (Matthew 6:1-18): Prayer and self-denial develop attitudes of humility.
Be Measured (Matthew 6:19-34): Avoid the twin excesses of wealth and worry.
Be Self-Aware (Matthew 7:1-6): Recognize your own limitations and value the most precious parts of who you are.
Be Open (Matthew 7:7-12): Put God’s promises for you first, and everything else will fall into place.
Be Wise (Matthew 7:13-20): Be discerning enough to distinguish between true and false leaders.
Be Revolutionary (Matthew 7:21-29): Doing the will of God in the world is revolutionary.

Central is proud to be a place

where all generations worship, grow, and serve together.
where women and men have equal opportunities for leadership.
where traditional worship is engaged with excellence.
and where diverse approaches to Christian faith and theology all find themselves at home under the lordship of Christ.