The Church at Smyrna (Part 2)

What does it mean to be truly rich? In Revelation 2, Jesus tells the impoverished and persecuted church at Smyrna, “I know thy poverty, (but thou art rich).” Though these believers possessed little of this world’s goods, they enjoyed spiritual riches that no earthly power could take away.

In this concluding message on the Church at Smyrna, we examine the sources of their persecution, the spiritual wealth they possessed in Christ, and the Lord’s promise that their suffering would be temporary. We also consider the remarkable historical account of Polycarp, an early pastor of Smyrna who suffered martyrdom for his faith, illustrating the courage and steadfastness of these early Christians.

Though the world may regard a struggling congregation as weak or insignificant, the Lord sees things differently. Join us as we consider Christ’s encouraging promise to His suffering people: “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”

Radio broadcast for November 8, 2026. Continue reading “The Church at Smyrna (Part 2)”

The Church at Smyrna (Part 1)

What does it mean to be rich in the eyes of God? In Revelation chapter 2, Jesus addresses a congregation that was surrounded by wealth but personally acquainted with poverty, persecution, and suffering. Yet unlike a majority of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor, the church at Smyrna received no rebuke from the Lord. Instead, Christ offered words of assurance to a people who had remained faithful despite tremendous hardship.

In this first part of our message on the Church at Smyrna, we consider the historical setting of this congregation, the opposition these early Christians faced, and the significance of Christ introducing Himself as the One who was dead and is alive. Their circumstances were difficult, but their Savior knew their suffering. What an encouragement to us today, knowing that no trial escapes His notice and that even death itself has been conquered by Jesus Christ!

Radio broadcast for November 1, 2026. Continue reading “The Church at Smyrna (Part 1)”

The Church at Ephesus, Part 2

Can a church be doctrinally sound, faithful in its works, diligent in defending the truth, and yet be in danger of losing its identity as a New Testament church? According to Jesus’ words to the church at Ephesus in Revelation 2, the answer is yes! Despite His remarkable commendation of this congregation, the Lord had one serious charge against them: They had left their first love.

In this edition of Words of Grace, we consider the danger of becoming so consumed with fighting error that we lose sight of Christ Himself. While defending sound doctrine is an important responsibility, our devotion must never shift from worshipping Christ to merely defending the doctrines of Christ. Join us as we consider the Lord’s sobering warning to Ephesus, His call to repentance, and the glorious promise He gives to those who overcome.

Radio broadcast for October 25, 2026. Continue reading “The Church at Ephesus, Part 2”

A Statement on Authority (Part 1)

Before considering Christ’s messages to the seven churches of Asia Minor in Revelation 2 and 3, we first need to consider the authority behind those messages.

In this first part of A Statement on Authority, we begin in Revelation chapter 1 and consider the divine authority behind this book, from Jesus Christ through John and the angel who delivered the message. We also consider the special blessing pronounced upon those who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy. This message serves as an introduction to our upcoming series through the Seven Churches of Asia.

Radio broadcast for October 4, 2026. Continue reading “A Statement on Authority (Part 1)”

A Change of Apparel, Part 2

In the second part of our study from Ephesians chapter 4, we continue considering the Apostle Paul’s picture of the Christian life as a change of apparel. That is, we should put off the old man and put on the new, replacing our former traits with the behaviors pleasing to Christ.

Paul gives us a number of practical exhortations, calling us to put away lying, sinful anger, stealing, corrupt communication, bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, evil speaking, and malice. In their place, we are to put on those qualities that reflect the character of Christ: kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness.

Ultimately, Paul brings us back to the gospel itself: “forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” May the cross of Christ affect the way we treat one another. Continue reading “A Change of Apparel, Part 2”

A Change of Apparel, Part 1

In this message from Ephesians 4, we consider Paul’s practical exhortation to the Christian to put off the old man and put on the new man. Using the picture of changing garments, Paul teaches us that the Christian life involves laying aside the attitudes and behaviors associated with our former way of life and being renewed in the spirit of our minds.

We consider what it means to put off the old man, put on the new man, and live differently from the world around us. In a culture that continually pulls us toward its own attitudes and behaviors, we are reminded that we cannot simply overcome the current by our own strength. We need to be continually renewed in the spirit of our minds and brought closer to Christ.

Radio broadcast for August 23, 2026. Continue reading “A Change of Apparel, Part 1”

The God of Peace (Part 2)

In the concluding installment of this two-part message from Flint River Primitive Baptist Church, we move from the source of true peace to its practical application in the life of the believer. Having seen that God is the God of Peace and that Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace, we now consider the blessings that flow from His finished work.

This episode examines the believer’s peace with God through the atoning work of Christ, the assurance and comfort found in the gospel, and the biblical call to pursue peace with others. Scripture teaches that the peace of God is not dependent upon favorable circumstances but upon the unchanging grace of God and the accomplished redemption of Jesus Christ.

In a world filled with turmoil, anxiety, and division, God’s people are called to rest in His promises, cultivate the fruit of the Spirit, and strive to live peaceably with one another. Join us as we conclude this study of one of Scripture’s most comforting themes and are reminded that the Lord not only gives peace, He is the God of Peace.

Radio broadcast for August 2, 2026. Continue reading “The God of Peace (Part 2)”

The God of Peace (Part 1)

The Bible speaks of peace hundreds of times, but what does true peace really mean? Is it merely the absence of conflict, or is there something far deeper? In this first installment of a two-part message from the pulpit of Flint River Primitive Baptist Church, we begin a biblical study of peace from Genesis to Revelation.

This week, we’ll examine the Old Testament concept of peace, the meaning of shalom, the peace offering under the Law, and the transition to the New Testament emphasis on peace with God through Jesus Christ. We’ll also consider why Scripture calls the Lord the God of Peace, why Christ is the Prince of Peace, and how lasting peace is rooted in God’s own character rather than in the changing circumstances of this world.

Join us next week as we conclude this study by considering the peace of God in the believer’s life, reconciliation through Christ, assurance of salvation, and our calling to pursue peace with others.

Radio broadcast for July 26, 2026 Continue reading “The God of Peace (Part 1)”

The Blessing of Fatherhood, Part 2

In this concluding message on biblical fatherhood, we consider the responsibilities God has entrusted to fathers and the privilege of reflecting our Heavenly Father’s love within the home. While the world often measures success by wealth, status, or achievement, Scripture reminds us that faithful fatherhood is one of God’s highest callings.

Join us as we examine what the Bible teaches about providing for our families, protecting those under our care, instructing our children in the truth of God’s Word, and bringing them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. We’ll also consider how the relationship between a loving father and his children points us to the compassion, mercy, and faithfulness of God Himself.

Radio broadcast for July 19, 2026. Continue reading “The Blessing of Fatherhood, Part 2”

The Blessing of Fatherhood

The Blessing of Fatherhood (Part 1)

In a culture that often diminishes the importance of fathers, the Bible presents fatherhood as one of God’s greatest blessings and highest callings. In this first message of a two-part study, we examine the biblical purpose of fatherhood and the vital role fathers play in reflecting the love, leadership, and grace of our Heavenly Father.

While no earthly father is perfect, Scripture points us to a pattern of humility, compassion, forgiveness, and faithful leadership within the home. Join us as we begin this study of God’s design for fatherhood and discover why faithful fathers are such a blessing to their families, their churches, and future generations.

Radio broadcast for July 12, 2026. Continue reading “The Blessing of Fatherhood”