Kootenai Church: Special Sermons

On the day of Pentecost 3,000 souls were converted and added to the Church. Baptism was part of that conversion experience. In this message, we note four things about those who were baptized on the day of Pentecost. An exposition of Acts 2:37-47.

In a world shadowed by sin and guilt, Psalm 32 offers a way out—a path marked by forgiveness and restoration. David Forsyth draws from his own experiences and King David's profound reflections to illuminate the six signposts that guide believers from the darkness of sin into the light of God’s forgiveness and joy.

The Six Signposts Out of Darkness

1. Escape Is Possible
   David begins by asserting that forgiveness and freedom from sin are attainable. Quoting verses 1-2, he emphasizes the blessedness of a forgiven life. Forgiveness is rooted in God's mercy, made possible through Christ's atoning sacrifice. True happiness is found when sins are forgiven and peace with God is restored.
2. Guilt Is Wretched
   The burden of unconfessed sin is heavy. Drawing from verses 3-4, David describes how guilt affects the body and soul. Like King David, who endured God's heavy hand before confessing, guilt is a painful but necessary nudge back to God.
3. Confession Is Essential
   Verse 5 reveals the power of confession. To escape sin's misery, one must voluntarily and humbly acknowledge it before God. Confession brings release, as seen in the parable of the prodigal son and echoed in 1 John 1:9: "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us."
4. God Is Near
   Verses 6-7 remind us that God is always present, ready to rescue and preserve those who call on Him. Despite fear or shame, we are assured that He will not cast us away but will surround us with songs of deliverance.
5. Resistance Is Foolish
   Verses 8-10 caution against stubbornness, likening it to the irrationality of a mule that requires forceful guidance. The path of wisdom is marked by prompt repentance and trust in God’s loving-kindness, avoiding the needless suffering caused by resistance.

Jeff Miller delivers a compelling sermon on Paul’s final instructions to Timothy from 2 Timothy 4:9-22. He explores how Paul’s guidance emphasizes faithfulness and perseverance. Miller highlights the importance of personal sanctification and handling the Word of God with integrity. By focusing on Paul’s final instructions, believers can find inspiration to stay committed to their faith and duties.

Jeff Miller explores how servant leadership differs radically from worldly power structures in God's kingdom. Through Mark 10:35-45, he reveals Jesus' counter-cultural teaching that true greatness comes through sacrificial service to others. By examining Christ's ultimate example of servant leadership in God's kingdom, believers learn that the path to greatness requires becoming servants and slaves to all.