First Baptist Dallas

Introduction:  What does it mean to be “godly?”  From where do we derive our standards for godly behavior?  In today’s passage, James is going to give us a way to measure our spirituality, as well as offering three practical steps to becoming a godly person.

Introduction:   James says that another measure of the authenticity of our faith is our ability to control our speech.  Our tongue is a powerful organ that can destroy reputations, relationships, and even churches.

Introduction:  In our study of James, we have seen that “saving faith is always accompanied by good works.”  Today we are going to look at the supreme example of saving faith found in the life of Abraham.

Introduction:  Today we will look at one of the most controversial passages in the New Testament describing the vital relationship between faith and works.  Is faith alone sufficient to save a person, or does God require faith and works? Buckle your seatbelts because James’ answer may surprise you!

Introduction:   Do you have genuine faith?  Before answering too quickly, James encourages us to examine another area of our lives -- how we judge other people.  Do you tend to judge people by their external circumstances: skin color, education, or wealth?  Your answer to that question reveals the authenticity of your faith.

Introduction:  How do you know if you’re really saved?  One test of the authenticity of your faith is your response to the Word of God.

This episode is a recent sermon by Dr. Ben Lovvorn on Romans 12:1–2, preached at First Baptist Dallas on the first Sunday of 2025. God desires for you to experience a profound new beginning—one that so transforms your very nature that it becomes evident to everyone around you. Dr. Lovvorn challenges the church to reflect on what it means to make pleasing Jesus Christ our one desire. As Christ’s di...

Introduction:  What is the real cause of sin in our life?  Should we blame other people, Satan, or ourselves for our disobedience to God?  Today, we will discover how Satan masterfully uses external influences and our internal weaknesses to lead us away from God.

Introduction:  How do you know if you are truly a Christian?  James says that the first test of the authenticity of your faith is how you respond to the various trials that bombard your life.

Introduction:   Today, we begin our study of one of the most practical, but misunderstood, books of the Bible.

Introduction:  Angels have a greater understanding of the significance of Christ’s birth because they are eyewitnesses to the entire story from beginning to end.

On the last day of our Christmas devotional series, Senior Pastor Dr. Robert Jeffress brings us to “The Joy of Christmas.” Through the story of the shepherds in Luke 2:20, Dr. Jeffress invites us to experience the life-changing joy of encountering Jesus personally. 

On the ninth day of our Christmas devotional series, Executive Pastor of Music & Worship Dr. Cliff Duren explores “The Joy of Music.” Drawing from Psalm 95:1, Dr. Duren shares how combining music and God’s Word becomes a profound source of joy and a powerful tool for worship. 

On day eight of our Christmas devotional series, Associate Minister of Instrumental Music Dr. Joe Hardin shares his devotional, “The Joy of Peace.” Drawing from the angelic proclamation in Luke 2:13–14, Dr. Hardin reminds us that true, lasting peace is a gift that only Jesus can bring.

On day seven of our Christmas devotional series, Preschool Music Associate Lindsey Perkin reflects on “The Joy of Family.” Through the story of Mary and Joseph and their faith, Lindsey encourages us to cherish and strengthen our family bonds, making Christ the center of our relationships.

Introduction:  As we approach the coming new year, we are going to look at two very different ways to live in 2025.

On day six of our Christmas devotional series, Band-Led Worship Associate Kelsi Carlile warms our hearts with her devotional, “The Joy of Love.” Reflecting on John 3:16, Kelsi invites us to embrace and share the love God has shown us, reminding us of the greatest love story ever told.

On the fifth day of our Christmas devotional series, Associate Student Minister of Worship Davin Hutchinson shares “The Joy of Light.” Focusing on John 1:9, Davin invites us to consider how Christ’s light overcomes our darkest moments, bringing hope and peace this Christmas.

On the fourth day of our Christmas devotional series, Associate Minister of Worship Jarrod Blackstock invites us to experience “The Joy of Restoration.” By taking a closer look at 1 Timothy 1:15, Jarrod explores the beauty of restoration that Jesus offers—renewing our broken relationship with God and breathing new life into our hearts.

On the third day of our Christmas devotional series, Band-Led Worship Leader Abel Serna invites us to experience “The Joy of Good News.” Reflecting on Luke 2:10, learn how to embrace and share the good news of our Savior's birth with those around us this Christmas.

On the second day of our Christmas devotional series, Kids Worship Minister Kathy Gilliland explores “The Joy of Giving,” reminding us how joyful giving can become an act of worship this Christmas season. Join us as we reflect on the heart of generosity in celebration of Christ's birth.

On the first day of our Christmas devotional, Senior Executive Pastor Dr. Ben Lovvorn shares what’s special about “The Joy of Anticipation.” In this episode, we’ll read Isaiah 9:6 and learn about the anticipation of the coming Messiah and the prophecy of Jesus Christ’s birth.

Introduction:  Everybody makes mistakes. Some of our mistakes are minor, but others are life-altering.  Today we are going to discover four principles for starting over after we’ve blown it.

Introduction:  C.S. Lewis wrote, “Forgiveness is a lovely idea until we have something to forgive.”  Although we extol the value of forgiveness in theory, we find it difficult to practice in our everyday life.  Yet, choosing to forgive those who hurt us is essential for our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. 

Introduction:  The late British pastor John Stott wrote, “The fact of suffering undoubtedly constitutes the single greatest threat to the Christian.”  Today, we will reconcile the reality of evil and suffering with the certainty of a good and loving God.