Sermons by Bruce Pratt (Page 16)
Enjoying Jesus (1 Timothy 6:6)
We enjoy so many blessings in this life. But do you enjoy Jesus? It’s sort of a weird question. But the focal verse for this sermon tells us that godliness with contentment is great gain. If you’re a follower of Jesus, godliness should describe your life. And contentment simply means you find satisfaction in living that godly life. Do you find contentment in Jesus?
That Other Garden (Mark 14:32-50)
Jesus and his disciples spent a lot of time in the Garden of Gethsemane. Their last trip there together ended with Jesus’ arrest. He would be crucified the next day. Those who were in the garden that night give us a picture of humanity. The guards, the Jewish leaders, Judas Iscariot, and the disciples all fell short. Jesus on the other hand, was perfect and sinless.
Make A Stand (2 Chronicles 11:13-17)
King Solomon’s son Rehoboam so angered the people that they rebelled. Consequently the nation separated into two kingdoms, Judah and Israel. The new king of Israel, the northern kingdom, quickly led his people into idolatry. Many of the Levites living there realized their only option was to flee Israel for Judah and the true faith of Yahweh. Their faithfulness is clear picture of what Jesus asks of all those who follow Him.
Taking Stock (1 John 1:1-10)
The apostle John begins his first epistle by declaring that he was an eyewitness to Jesus’ earthly ministry. He explains that belief in Jesus leads to eternal life and fellowship with God, Jesus, and those who believe in Him. John then states without reservation that God is light and no darkness exists in Him at all. With this truth as a starting point, John draws a clear distinction between a life of light and one of darkness. He makes it…
Why Am I Here? (Ephesians 2:10)
When Jesus saves someone, that’s not the end of the story. It’s actually just the beginning. Before time began God had a plan for every one of us. When we’re saved, we can begin to put that plan into action. We belong to God. We’re saved for His purposes. Everything we do should lead back to this reality.
The Approaching Deadline (1 Corinthians 7:39-41)
The apostle Paul makes it clear that Jesus can return anytime. This imminence should keep us focused on the work at hand. We cannot allow work or family or pursuits keep us from our mission. Often situations can derail us. Good times make us complacent, while bad periods distract us. Whatever the case, we need to keep our eyes on Jesus and His commands.
Making the Most of Grace (Titus 2:11-14)
God pours out His grace on all of mankind each and every day. This is known as God’s common grace. But to make the most of God’s grace you must first accept His offer of salvation through Jesus Christ. That’s when you begin to experience God’s special grace. Then you will be able to live a life yielded to God, anticipating Jesus’ return, and passionate about God’s program.
Our Guide for Life (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
The apostle Paul makes it clear that the Scriptures are given to us by God. In fact, Paul explains that they are literally “God breathed.” While written by over 40 human authors, it was the Holy Spirit who inspired each of them. The result is a cohesive message which is without error in its original manuscripts. Because of this we can rely on Scripture as our guide for life. Paul explains in the focal verses that Scripture has many practical…
Final Instructions (Revelation 22:6-21)
As the writing of the Word of God comes to a close, we find four final statements by Jesus in Revelation 22. These four statements make it clear that Jesus intends to return soon. In fact, He declares His imminent return three times in this section of Scripture. In the meantime, He expects those who are His followers to be on the lookout and telling others about Him.
What God Says at Christmas (Luke 2:1-18)
As the events of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem unfold, we see God’s hand in everything happening. Pastor Bruce retells the account, stopping along the way to point out aspects of God’s love and grace. From the journey Mary and Joseph make to Bethlehem to the triumphal announcement of the angels, we see that God has much to say to us.