Sermon Audio: LINK I. SAMUEL'S PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY (1 Samuel 12:1-5) Before Saul wore the crown, Israel stood apart. Surrounded by nations that bowed to thrones of gold and marble, Israel bowed to the Living God. While others trusted in chariots and kings, Israel trusted in the voice of the Lord. God Himself was their King,... Continue Reading →
Israel Asks For A King
Sermon Audio: LINK I. The Crisis of Leadership and the Question of Kingship (1 Samuel 8:1-5) In 1 Samuel 8, Israel stands at another crossroads. The chapter begins, “When Samuel became old, he made his sons judges over Israel” (1 Samuel 8:1, ESV). Samuel had served faithfully as prophet, priest, and judge. But with age... Continue Reading →
The God Who Judges Justly
Praise the Lord with All Your Heart (Psalm 9:1–10) Have you ever had a near death experience, a time when you realized just how close you almost came to experiencing death? Maybe it was a near-miss on the highway. Maybe it was a medical scare that turned out to be a false alarm. Or maybe... Continue Reading →
Prayer for an American Flag Raising Ceremony
O Lord God of Hosts, the King of the nations, unto You we lift our eyes and hearts on this occasion. As we raise the banner of this land, we acknowledge You as the giver of all good things, the Defender of the just, and the Judge of all the earth. We bless You, O... Continue Reading →
The Loss and Return of the Ark:
Sermon Audio: LINK I. The Danger of Presuming on God's Presence (1 Samuel 4) In 1 Samuel 4, Israel makes a fatal mistake. They presume on God's presence without submitting to His authority. Facing the Philistines, a fierce warrior people from the island of Caphtor (modern-day Crete), Israel believes the battle can be won by... Continue Reading →