Living Stones Spanish Springs

This sermon by Pastor Mark is part of our Advent series titled 'Roots of Redemption'. It focuses on the theme of 'Grace for the Afraid' and explores Matthew 1:18-25, recounting the story of Jesus Christ's birth from Joseph's perspective. Pastor Mark discusses how Joseph navigated fear and uncertainty when confronted with the news of Mary's divine conception. Through referencing historical texts an...

This sermon from Pastor Mark, emphasizes the theme of 'Grace for the Outsider' as part of our Advent series “Roots of Redemption”. The sermon explores the story of Ruth, a Moabite woman and a triple marginalized figure, showing her journey from an outsider to an insider within the lineage of Jesus Christ. By examining Ruth 1:1-18 and Ruth 4:13-22, Pastor Mark outlines four aspects of covenantal co...

In this sermon, Pastor Mark delves into the story of Rahab from the Bible, focusing on her transformation from a Canaanite prostitute to a key figure in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the concept of 'grace for the guilty,' explaining how Rahab's actions demonstrated her faith in God despite her past. Mark draws parallels between Rahab's story and the celebration of Advent, highlighti...

This sermon, delivered by Pastor Gregg, explores the theme of skepticism met with grace through the lens of biblical genealogy and historical evidence. The sermon uses passages from Matthew, Genesis, and Galatians to highlight key points: the historical accuracy of the Bible, the inclusivity of Jesus's lineage, God's faithfulness, and the role of faith in overcoming skepticism. Pastor Gregg also i...

In this sermon, pastor candidate Andy Musick delivers a detailed exposition of John chapter 8, emphasizing Jesus' declaration of being 'the light of the world.' The sermon explores how light reveals the truth about ourselves, the Father, and Jesus. Andy discusses the Pharisees' reaction to Jesus' claims, highlighting the importance of abiding in Jesus' word for true discipleship. He underscores th...

In this sermon on John 7:1-52, Pastor Mark South explores what happens when Jesus unapologetically positions himself at the very center of our lives. During the Feast of Booths—a Jewish celebration remembering God's provision of water in the wilderness—Jesus dramatically interrupts the climactic water-pouring ceremony, standing and crying out, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink." Mar...

This sermon, delivered by Pastor Mark, centers around John 6:25-69, where Jesus declares Himself the Bread of Life. Pastor Mark explains how Jesus rebukes the crowd for seeking Him not because of signs but because they ate their fill. Jesus urges them to work for the food that endures to eternal life, highlighting that true fulfillment and eternal life come from believing in Him. The pastor unders...

This sermon by Pastor Mark explores John 6:1-21, where Jesus feeds the 5,000+ and walks on water. Pastor Mark draws parallels to the Old Testament, specifically the Exodus narrative, showcasing Jesus as greater than Moses. Key themes include Jesus' miraculous provision, His divine identity, and the crowd's misinterpretation of His kingship. The sermon emphasizes faith, daily dependence on God, and...

This sermon by Pastor Mark examines John 5:19-47, where Jesus explains his divine authority, unity with the Father, and his role as the judge. Pastor Mark emphasizes the distinction between treating Jesus as a mere teacher and recognizing him as God. The sermon challenges listeners to move past their modern outrage, often fueled by societal and personal frustrations, to find true peace and transfo...

This sermon by Pastor Mark discusses the theme of true belief versus false belief through the lens of two narratives from the Book of John (John 4:43-5:18). The first story involves an official whose belief in Jesus starts with seeking Jesus’ power to heal his dying son but grows into recognizing Jesus’ authority and identity. The second story centers on an invalid man at the Pool of Bethesda who...

This sermon by Pastor David explores John chapter 4:1-42, focusing on Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well. David emphasizes the importance of spiritual fulfillment over physical necessities. He describes how Jesus bridges cultural and social barriers, offering living water that leads to eternal life. David highlights the need to see people through spiritual eyes, recognizing...

In this sermon, Pastor John explores the deep theological and practical implications of John 3:16-36, one of the most well-known verses in the Bible. He contextualizes this verse within the larger narrative and teaching of the Gospel of John, emphasizing the importance of understanding God's love and judgment. Pastor John also discusses the significance of Jesus being lifted up like the serpent in...

In this sermon, Pastor Mark explores the passages of John 2:13-25 and John 3:1-15, focusing on Jesus' cleansing of the temple and His conversation with Nicodemus. Pastor Mark discusses the themes of heart blindness caused by busyness, distraction, and religious formalism, and the necessity of a spiritual rebirth to truly see and enter the Kingdom of God. He emphasizes that true worship and transfo...

Pastor Mark explores John 1:35-2:13, discussing the journey from being merely curious about Jesus to becoming fully convicted in faith. He outlines this transformation over three days: knowing what you're truly seeking, believing in what you see to see what you couldn't believe, and witnessing God's uncommon glory break into the ordinary. The sermon uses the stories of Jesus calling his disciples...

In this sermon, Pastor Mark delves into the significance of John the Baptist's testimony in John 1:19-34. The message emphasizes John's humility and his role in preparing the way for Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Mark discusses the immense power of a voice and how John the Baptist, despite his influence, deliberately pointed away from himself to Christ. The sermon als...

In this sermon, Pastor Mark delves into John chapter 1, emphasizing the divinity of Christ and the call for believers to not only see but to be transformed by Him. He explores the concept of Jesus as the Word and true light, discussing how Jesus has always been part of God's plan. The sermon also addresses the pitfalls of placing ultimate trust in influential people rather than Jesus. Pastor Mark...

In this sermon, Pastor David reflects on 2 Samuel 24, where King David's decision to conduct a census brings divine consequences. David acknowledges his sin and pleads for God's mercy, which underscores the theme of human fallibility and divine grace. The sermon explores the multifaceted legacy of David, highlighting his human weaknesses, his sincere repentance, and ultimately his dependence on Go...

In this sermon, Pastor Mark reflects on the final words of David from 2 Samuel 23 and 24. He emphasizes the importance of reflecting on God's past deliverance as a source of strength for future challenges. Pastor Mark discusses how David's life, from his anointing to reign as king to his last days, showcases faithfulness and divine favor. He underscores the personal nature of God's deliverance, th...

In this sermon, Pastor John delves into the stories from 2 Samuel 21 to explore the concept of biblical justice. He recounts how the Gibeonites deceived Joshua into making a covenant and the subsequent repercussions when Saul violated that covenant. The sermon then examines David's actions to atone for Saul's sin by surrendering seven of Saul's descendants, emphasizing the heavy cost of sin and it...

This sermon, delivered by pastor candidate Gabe Dye, explores themes of grief, leadership, humility, and divine presence through the lens of Second Samuel chapters 19 and 20. Gabe recounts the story of King David's turmoil following the death of his son Absalom and the rebellion of Sheba. He emphasizes the importance of listening to God's message, confronting one's emotions, seeking mercy, and rel...

In this powerful sermon, Pastor Mark delves into 2 Samuel 18, exploring the themes of leadership, responsibility, and mercy through the story of King David and his son Absalom. He reflects on the sovereignty of God, the consequences of our actions, and the nature of divine mercy. Pastor Mark uses contemporary examples to illustrate how true mercy often involves restraint rather than immediate resc...

In this sermon, elder candidate Andy Musick explores the consequences of sin as depicted in 2 Samuel chapters 15 through 17. The narrative covers David's flight from Absalom, the impact of sin on the community, isolation, and spiritual blindness. Andy emphasizes God's steadfast presence, the importance of community, and the hope for restoration through faith in the Lord. He draws parallels to pers...

In this sermon, Pastor Mark explores the biblical narrative of 2 Samuel 13-15, focusing on the devastating consequences of King David's passivity in dealing with his son Amon's sin against Tamar. He delves into themes of justice, fatherhood, and the importance of active leadership, contrasting David's inaction with the proactive sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Through a call to action, Mark encourages...

In this sermon, Pastor Carlos delves into 2 Samuel 12, emphasizing the story of David's sin and subsequent confrontation by the prophet Nathan. The sermon outlines how Nathan courageously and thoughtfully confronts David, leading to David's repentance and honest confession as captured in Psalm 51. Pastor Carlos highlights the roles of community and faithful friends who supported David through his...

In this sermon, Pastor Gregg Katz delves into 2 Samuel 11, exploring the story of King David's adultery with Bathsheba and the subsequent fallout. Drawing parallels to modern-day sins and emphasizing the importance of repentance, Gregg examines David's failure to fulfill his kingly duties, his descent into further sin, and the consequential impact on those around him. Gregg stresses the dangers of...