Sermon Outlines for 2023

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, October 1, 2023
Theme: Basket Cases in the Bible (8 of 10)

Title: The Two Baskets of Figs (i.e., the Product of our Choices)
Text: Jeremiah 24:2, 5, 8 (Printed) Jeremiah 24:1-10 (Presented)
2 One basket had very good figs, like the figs that are first ripe; and the other basket had very bad figs which could not be eaten, they were so bad. … 5 “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: ‘Like these good figs, so will I [a]acknowledge those who are carried away captive from Judah, whom I have sent out of this place for their own good, into the land of the Chaldeans. … 8 ‘And as the bad figs which cannot be eaten, they are so bad’—surely thus says the Lord— ‘so will I give up Zedekiah the king of Judah, his princes, the residue of Jerusalem who remain in this land, and those who dwell in the land of Egypt.
​Footnote: a. regard
New King James Version (NKJV). Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
The Prophet Jeremiah is shown two baskets of figs (some ripe, others rotten). He understands that they represent the outcome of Judah’s choices. Judah could either choose God’s will or reject it. By submitting to God, it meant that they would become captives for 70 years in a foreign land; but subsequently be redeemed and restored. Resisting His will meant that they would experience His wrath and perish. Facing God’s judgement, some yielded to Him and were ultimately saved; still others stubbornly resisted God’s will and futilely sought help from mankind (i.e., Egypt) and were destroyed.
 
Truth: What do these scriptures mean to me?
We must refuse the temptation to rebel against God and seek help apart from Him. We make choices; and thus, these choices make us; impacting us now and eternally.
 
Thot 1: The Vision Exhibited (1-3)
A. The Tubs Gazed (1a)
B. The Time Given (1b)
C. The Titles Granted (1c)
D. The Types Grouped (2):
i. Tasty and Good (2a): ii. Tainted and Ghastly (2b)
E. The Types Graded (3):
i. Trio of Great (3a); ii. Triad of Gross (3b)
 
Thot 2: The Vision Explained (4-10)
A. The Deliverance of the Obedient (5-7)
 i. The Regarded (5); ii. Their Rescue (6a); iii. Their Reward (6b); iv. Their Relationship (7)
B. The Destruction of the Obstinate (8-10)
 i. The Residue (8); ii. Their Rejection (9a); iii. Their Reproach (9b); iv. Their Ruin (10)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I have a serious choice to make. I can choose eternal preservation by following God’s will or eternal punishment by fleeing it. Therefore, I must choose wisely. 


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Teacher: Lay Minister Luis Rodriguez
Time: Sunday Morning, September 24, 2023
Title: In the Valley
Text: Psalm 23:1-6

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, September 17, 2023
Theme: Basket Cases in the Bible (7 of 10)

Title: A Basket Proving God’s Unfailing Word
Text: 2 Kings 10:7-10 (Printed) 2 Kings 10:1-11 (Presented)
7 So it was, when the letter came to them, that they took the king’s sons and slaughtered seventy persons, put their heads in baskets and sent them to him at Jezreel. 8 Then a messenger came and told him, saying, “They have brought the heads of the king’s sons.” And he said, “Lay them in two heaps at the entrance of the gate until morning.” 9 So it was, in the morning, that he went out and stood, and said to all the people, “You are righteous. Indeed I conspired against my master and killed him; but who killed all these? 10 Know now that nothing shall fall to the earth of the word of the Lord which the Lord spoke concerning the house of Ahab; for the Lord has done what He spoke by His servant Elijah.”
New King James Version (NKJV). Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
The Word of God, via the Prophet Elijah about the annihilation of Ahab and his descendants, is fulfilled during Jehu’s reign.
Truth: What do these scriptures mean to me?
We can be sure that God’s Word will always be accomplished in His time and in His way.
 
Thot 1: The Written Outline (1-5)
A. The Sovereign’s Letter (1-3)
i. The Descendants of the Family (1-2)
ii. The Dare to Fight (3)
B. The Society Listens (4-5)
i. Their Demeanor of Fear (4)
ii. Their Deferral and Forfeiture (5)
 
Thot 2: The Work Outsourced (6-8)
A. The Subsequent Letter (6)
i. The Dilemma Felt (6a)
The Dismal Fosters (6b)
B. The Seventy Liquidated (7-8)
i. The Decapitation Fulfilled (7)
ii. The Display Frightful (8)
 
Thot 3: The Word’s Outcome (10-11)
A. The Seer’s Language (9-10)
i. The Description Faultless (9)
ii. The Declaration Firm (10)
1. The Foretelling Effects (10a)
2. The Foreteller is Elijah (10b)
B. The Slaughter Lengthened
i. The Destroyer Featured (11a)
ii. The Destruction Final (11b)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I can stand on the sure Word of God! What He says will come to pass in His time and in His way. 

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, September 10, 2023
Theme: Basket Cases in the Bible (6 of 10)

Title: A Basket of Idolatry Removed
Text: Zechariah 5:5-11 (Printed & Presented)
5 Then the angel who talked with me came out and said to me, “Lift your eyes now, and see what this is that goes forth.” 6 So I asked, “What is it?” And he said, “It is a [a]basket that is going forth.” He also said, “This is their resemblance throughout the earth: 7 Here is a lead disc lifted up, and this is a woman sitting inside the basket”; 8 then he said, “This is Wickedness!” And he thrust her down into the basket, and threw the lead [b]cover over its mouth. 9 Then I raised my eyes and looked, and there were two women, coming with the wind in their wings; for they had wings like the wings of a stork, and they lifted up the basket between earth and heaven. 10 So I said to the angel who talked with me, “Where are they carrying the basket?” 11 And he said to me, “To build a house for it in the land of [c]Shinar; when it is ready, the basket will be set there on its base.”
Footnotes: a. Heb. ephah, a measuring container, b. Lit. stone, c. Babylon
New King James Version (NKJV). Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about? The people of Judah are now back in Israel and free from their captivity in Babylon. But the prophet receives a vision that the idolatrous influence of their captors, still with them, must be purged from them.

Truth: What do these scriptures mean to me? We who are saved are no longer to live sinful lives; rather, we are to live set apart from sin via sanctification.
 
Thot 1: The Realization of Idolatry in Them (5-8)
A. The Observation and the Inquiry Made (5-6a)
B. The Object and the Iniquity Manifested (6b-8)
i. The Symbol a “Basket” (6b)
ii. The Source a Billows (6c);
iii. The Statuette Belittled (7b-8b)
iv. The Seal Battened (7a, 8c)
 
Thot 2: The Removal of Idolatry from Them (9)
A. The Women a Duo (9a)
B. The Wind that Drives (9b)
C. The Wings Described (9c)
D. The Worship Deceitful (9d)
 
Thot 3: The Recurrence of Idolatry near Them (10-11)
A. The Seer’s Probe Presented (10)
B. The Sinful Place Pinpointed (11)
i. The Town of Foreign Dominions (11a)
​ii. The Temple of False Deities (11b)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me? As a believer, I am in the world; but, not of the world. Jesus lives in and through me. I will be holy as He is holy. 

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, September 3, 2023
Theme: Basket Cases in the Bible (5 of 10)

Title: A Basket Case in Forthtelling God’s Future Judgements
Text: Genesis 40:16-19 (Printed) and Genesis 40:1-23 (Presented)
16 When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said to Joseph, “I also was in my dream, and there were three white baskets on my head. 17 In the uppermost basket were all kinds of baked goods for Pharaoh, and the birds ate them out of the basket on my head.” 18 So Joseph answered and said, “This is the interpretation of it: The three baskets are three days. 19 Within three days Pharaoh will lift off your head from you and hang you on a tree; and the birds will eat your flesh from you.”
New King James Version (NKJV). Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about? Pharoah’s butler and baker fall out of his favor and are imprisoned. Joseph, wrongly accused, is there with them in the jail and is assigned to care for them. They both have dreams which Joseph correctly interprets. The butler is saved; but the baker is hanged. Joseph is not remembered by the butler until several years later.

​Truth: What do these scriptures mean to me? This passage parallels the plight of humanity that has fallen from God’s grace. Jesus, the Innocent One, is God with us, here in His Spirit to serve us and help us be restored to God the Father. Like the butler and baker, some will be redeemed and others will perish. Like the butler, many who are restored often neglect the relationship with the Savior until a crisis.  
 
Thot 1: Their Fall and Suffering Appointed for Them (1-3a, 4b)
A. The Seething Anger of the King (1-2)
B. Their Separation Assigned from the King (3a, 4b)
 
Thot 2: Their Friend and Servant Appeared with Them (3b-4a)
A. His Presence of Being There (3b)
B. His Purpose in Being There (4b, 5-8)
   i. His Responsibility for Them; ii. His Role with Them; iii. His Reaching to Them
 
Thot 3: Their Finality and Sentence Apportioned to Them (9-23))
A. The Branches and Baskets and their Foreshadows Revealed (9-15; 16-19)
B. The Butler is Forgiven and then Restored (20a, 21)
C. The Baker is Forsaken and then Removed (20b, 22)
D. The Benefactor is Forgotten and then Remembered (40:23; 41:9)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me? I will be like the butler (not the baker); however, I will remember Christ my Redeemer; and share Him with others.


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Teacher: Lay Minister Dorian Saunders
Time: Sunday Morning, August 27, 2023
Title: You're More Than a Conqueror; so, Make thee devil flee!
Text: Romans 8:36-39 and James 4:5-7

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, August 20, 2023
Theme: Basket Cases in the Bible (4 of 10)
Title: A Basket Case in God’s Furtherance
Text: Acts 9:25 (Printed) and Acts 9:19-31 (Presented)
25 Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket.
New King James Version (NKJV). Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
Saul (Paul), is dangling from a rope, being letdown by friends in a basket. Without this event, he may never have become the great missionary, the great evangelist; the great author of scripture that we know today.

Truth: What do these scriptures mean to me?
Sometimes, the letdowns of life are God's way of furthering us, of moving us along in his purpose and plan for our lives.
 
Thot 1: A Basket of Rescue (23-25)
A. From the Enemy (23a)
B. From an Execution (23b-24)
C. From an Experience (25)
 
Thot 2: A Basket of Removal (26-29)
A. A Change of Place (26a)
B. A Change with People (26b-28)
C. A Change in Precept (29a)
D. A Change from Peril (29b)
 
Thot 3: A Basket of Release (30-31)
A. A Person of God’s Desires in the Church (30a)
B. A Plan of God’s Directing via the Church (30b)
C. A Purpose of God’s Design for the Church (31)
i. It’s Peace; ii. It’s Progress; iii. It’s Posture; iv. It’s Propagation
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
God, use my letdowns to shape and fulfill Your purpose and plan for me.
Copyright © 2015 by Ronnie Brown Ministries. All rights reserved. Published by Ronnie Brown Ministries 82 Vandiver Road, Rossville, GA 30741. Italicized words in outline are from e-book at https://ronniebrown.net. Used by permission.


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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan;
Time: Sunday Morning, August 13, 2023
Theme: Basket Cases in the Bible (3 of 10)
Title: A Basket Case in God’s Supply
Text: John 6:5-6 (Printed) and John 6:1-14 (Presented)
5 Then Jesus lifted up His eyes, and seeing a great multitude coming toward Him, He said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?”
6 But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do.
New King James Version (NKJV). Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
The hour was late, the crowd has nothing to eat. The disciples were requesting that Jesus send them home so that they could get something to eat. Jesus responds with the directive; you give them something to eat. Now these disciples were puzzled. They had no means by which to feed this crowd. When they are at the end of their resources, Jesus intervenes and supplies their need; insomuch that there are 12 baskets of fragments left over.

Truth: What do these scriptures mean to me?
We realize that Christ Jesus has the power to supply our needs, surpass our impossibilities and overcome our desperation. Our main need is His salvation.

Thot 1: Learn from What was Presented in this Basket (1-9, 11-12, 14)
A. A Meager Lunch (1-9)
B. A Meaningful Lunch (11)
C. A Miraculous Lunch (12, 14)

Thot 2: Look at What was Produced from this Basket (5-7, 9-11)
A. Jesus is Greater than Our Deficiency (5-7)
B. Jesus is Greater than Our Discernment (9-10)
C. Jesus is Greater than Our Difficulty (11)

Thot 3: Listen to What was Proclaimed by these Baskets (12-14, 28-35)
A. Christ is Sovereign (12-13a)
B. Christ is Sufficient (13b)
C. Christ is Savior (14, 28-35)

​Transformation: How should this truth change me?
God can meet my need; and He can exceed it. My primary need is salvation!
Copyright © 2015 by Ronnie Brown Ministries. All rights reserved. Published by Ronnie Brown Ministries 82 Vandiver Road, Rossville, GA 30741. Italicized words in outline are from e-book at https://ronniebrown.net. Used by permission.

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, August 6, 2023
Theme: Basket Cases in the Bible (2 of 10)
Title: A Basket Case in God’s Judgment
Text: Amos 8:1-3 (Printed) and Amos 8:1-14 (Presented)
1 Thus the Lord God showed me: Behold, a basket of summer fruit. 2 And He said, “Amos, what do you see?” So I said, “A basket of summer fruit.” Then the Lord said to me: “The end has come upon My people Israel; I will not pass by them anymore. 3 And the songs of the temple Shall be wailing in that day,” Says the Lord God— “Many dead bodies everywhere, They shall be thrown out in silence.”
New King James Version (NKJV). Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
Amos, a southern minister from Judah who was bi-vocational (a farmer by trade; a prophet by calling), is sent by God to the northern cities of Israel to warn them of His coming judgment for their unremorseful sins!
 
Truth: What do these scriptures mean to me?
God warns all sinful humanity of His coming verdict upon the unrepentant!
 
Thot 1: The Description of Their State (1-2)
A. The Symbol God Selected (1)
B. The Season God Stressed (2a)
C. The Significance God Suggested (2b)

Thot 2: The Disclosure of Their Sin (4-7)
A. Their Disdain of the Sovereign God (5a)
B. Their Dishonesty in Selling Goods (5b)
C. Their Disrespect for Society in General (4, 6-7)

Thot 3: The Declaration of Their Sentence (3, 8-14)
A. A Flood from the Wrath of God (8-10)
B. A Famine in the Word of God (11-13)
C. A Fall of the Wicked before God (3, 14)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I will trust in Christ and rest on Him alone as my Savior; as He is my Substitutionary Sacrifice, upon Whom God’s wrath falls instead of me!
Copyright © 2015 by Ronnie Brown Ministries. All rights reserved. Published by Ronnie Brown Ministries 82 Vandiver Road, Rossville, GA 30741. Italicized words in outline are from e-book at https://ronniebrown.net. Used by permission.

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Teacher: Lay Minister Luis Rodriguez
Time: Sunday Morning, July 30, 2023
Title: Happiness or Joy?
Text: James 1:1-2

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, July 23, 2023
Theme: Basket Cases in the Bible (1 of 10)     
Title: A Basket Case in God’s Providence

Text: Exodus 2:1-10 (Printed and Presented)
2 And a man of the house of Levi went and took as wife a daughter of Levi. 2 So the woman conceived and bore a son. And when she saw that he was a beautiful child, she hid him three months. 3 But when she could no longer hide him, she took an ark of bulrushes for him, daubed it with asphalt and pitch, put the child in it, and laid it in the reeds by the river’s bank. 4 And his sister stood afar off, to know what would be done to him. 5 Then the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the river. And her maidens walked along the riverside; and when she saw the ark among the reeds, she sent her maid to get it. 6 And when she opened it, she saw the child, and behold, the baby wept. So she had compassion on him, and said, “This is one of the Hebrews’ children.” 7 Then his sister said to Pharaoh’s daughter, “Shall I go and call a nurse for you from the Hebrew women, that she may nurse the child for you?” 8 And Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Go.” So the maiden went and called the child’s mother. 9 Then Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this child away and nurse him for me, and I will give you your wages.” So the woman took the child and nursed him. 10 And the child grew, and she brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter, and he became her son. So she called his name Moses, saying, “Because I drew him out of the water.”
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
Moses was protectively placed in a basket by the hand of his mother; yet, he was providentially put there by the Hand of God.  
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
We are learning three lessons of the providence of God from these verses.
 
Thot 1: The Reason for the Basket (1-4)
A. A Time of Desperation (1-2)
B. A Turn of Dependence (3-4)
 
Thot 2: The Reality of the Basket (5-10)
A. This Baby’s Return (5-9)
B. This Baby’s Relations (10)
 
Thot 3: The Recognition by this Basket
A. An Eventual Deliverance
B. An Enlightening Depiction
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
My circumstances are not in control of me; however, God is!
Copyright © 2015 by Ronnie Brown Ministries. All rights reserved. Published by Ronnie Brown Ministries 82 Vandiver Road, Rossville, GA 30741. Italicized words in outline are from e-book at https://ronniebrown.net. Used by permission.   

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, July 16, 2023
Theme: The Description of the Spirit Life
Title: The Declaration of the Spirit Life (6 of 6)    

​Text: Romans 8:31-39 (Printed and Presented)
31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written:
“For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” 37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
If we are saved by God’s grace, then we are indeed secure in His grace.
 Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
God’s distinctive plan of salvation guarantees me absolute, eternal security!

Thot 1: Secure by the Labor of Christ (31-33)
A. His Interest In Us (31); B. His Investment In Us (32a)
C. His Intentions For Us (32b); D. His Insistence Concerning Us (33)
 
Thot 2: Secure by the Life of Christ (34)
A. The Price He Paid on the Tree (34a)
B. The Power He Presented at the Tomb (34b)
C. The Position He Possesses at the Throne (34c)
 
Thot 3: Secure by the Love of Christ (34)
A. His Love is Enduring in All Troubles (35-36)
B. His Love is Enabling for All to be Triumphant (37)
C. His Love is Everlasting against All Threats (38-39)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I can rest with blessed assurance in God’s saving grace!
Italicized words from the sermonnotebook.org by Pastor Alan Carr, Calvary Baptist Church in Lenoir, NC. Used by permission.  

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, July 9, 2023
Theme: The Description of the Spirit Life
Title: The Determination of the Spirit Life (5 of 6)    

Text: Romans 8:28-31 (Printed & Presented)
28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. 31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
These verses are a summary of God’s resolute incomprehensible plan of redemption for humanity that is available to whosoever will receive it.
 Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
God has provided the Way (i.e., Jesus Christ) that I can be saved from my sins; and it is avowed via His promise and accomplished via His purpose.

Thot 1: The Determination of God’s Promise (28)
A. There is a Confidence (28a)
B. There is a Completeness (28b)
1. Sweet Things;
2. Sorrowful Things;
3. Satanic Things;
4. Sinful Things
C. There is a Cause (28c)
D. There is a Condition (28d)
E. There is a Consequence (28e)
 
Thot 2: The Determination of God’s Purpose (29-31)
A. It’s Based in the Omniscience of God (29a)
B. It’s Based in the Omnipotence of God (29b-30)
C. It’s Based in the Omnipresence of God (31)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
We may never grasp the full mystery of salvation this side of heaven, but we sure can enjoy the result. Are you saved? Rejoice! Are you unsaved? Repent!
Italicized words from the sermonnotebook.org by Pastor Alan Carr, Calvary Baptist Church in Lenoir, NC. Used by permission.  

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, July 2, 2023
Theme: The Description of the Spirit Life
Title: The Diligence of the Spirit Life (4 of 6)    
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Text: Romans 8:18, 23, 26-27 (Printed); Romans 8:18-27 (Presented)
18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. … 22 For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now.  23 Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. … 26 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
We live in a world that is under a curse. As a result, … there is a lot of groaning and turmoil happening. 
 Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
There is a struggle that is going on in and around all of us. Happily, the Spirit of God can give us hope during the troubled times of our lives.

Thot 1: The Creation Groans (19-22)
A. The Creation’s Experience (20);
B. The Creation’s Expression (22);
C. The Creation’s Expectation (19, 21)
 
Thot 2: The Christian Groans (18, 23-25)
A. The Christian’s Agony (23)
B. The Christian’s Anticipation (18, 24-25)
 
Thot 3: The Comforter Groans (26-27)
A. The Comforter Sustains Us (26a)
B. The Comforter Speaks for Us (26b-27)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I have the Spirit of God within me and He enables me to remain diligent and committed as I travel toward a better country - heaven!
Italicized words from the sermonnotebook.org by Pastor Alan Carr, Calvary Baptist Church in Lenoir, NC. Used by permission.  


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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, June 25, 2023
Theme: The Description of the Spirit Life
Title: The Differences of the Spirit Life (3 of 6)    
​
Text: Romans 8:5-13 (Printed & Presented)
5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. 10 And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. 12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. 13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
It addresses the matter of the mind and its impact on how we live.
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
The Spirit changes my mind and as a result changes every area of my life.

Thot 1: A Difference in the Mind of the Believer (5-7)
A. The Desires of the Mind are Changed (5);
B. The Directions of the Mind are Changed (6);
C. The Devotions of the Mind are Changed (7)
 
Thot 2: A Difference in the Motive of the Believer (8-9)
A. The Charge Against the Sensual Life of the Flesh (8)
B. The Change Apparent in the Spiritual Life via the Fruit (9)
 
Thot 3: A Difference in the Members of the Believer (10-13)
A. A Change in our Members (10-11)
B. A Challenge to our Members (12)
C. A Caution to our Members (13)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
"I have been changed! I am not perfect, but I am different!” I now honor God.  
Italicized words from the sermonnotebook.org by Pastor Alan Carr, Calvary Baptist Church in Lenoir, NC. Used by permission.  


*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, June 18, 2023
Theme: The Description of the Spirit Life
Title: The Delights of the Spirit Life (2 of 6)    
 
Text: Romans 8:14-17 (Printed & Presented)
14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
Every saved person has been brought into the family of God and enjoys all the rights and privileges as well as the responsibilities of this status.
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
Every person who places their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ experiences this spiritual adoption into God’s family!
​
Thot 1: The Delight of Our Adoption (14-15)
A. We have a New Family via God’s Acclamation of Us (14);
B. We have a New Freedom via God’s Acceptance of Us (15a);
C. We have a New Father via Gods Adoration of Us (15b)
 
Thot 2: The Delight of Our Assurance (16)
A. Via Our Abiding Communion with the Spirit (16a)
B. Via Our Abundant Confidence in the Spirit (16b)
 
Thot 3: The Delight of Our Affluence (17)
A. Our Esteemed Privilege as Children (17a)
B. Our Equitable Portion with Christ (17b)
C. Our Eternal Promise to be Completed (17c)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
The Holy Spirit can help you get your sonship settled.  If you do not know God, then He invites you now to be His child via the new birth. If you do know Him, then He wants you to live as His child via enjoying the privileges and embracing the responsibilities of this magnificent standing.
Italicized words from the sermonnotebook.org by Pastor Alan Carr, Calvary Baptist Church in Lenoir, NC. Used by permission.  

*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, June 11, 2023
Theme: The Description of the Spirit Life
Title: The Deliverance of the Spirit Life (1 of 6)    
 
Text: Romans 8:1-4 (Printed & Presented)
8 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, 4 that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
It tells us that we have been delivered from three elements (i.e., the sentence; the slavery; the sickness) of the influence of sin in our lives.  
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
When the Spirit of God comes into a life, that life is forever changed!  
 
Thot 1: A Life Delivered from the Sentence of Sin (1)
A. It is a Promise Stated about Christ (1a);
B. It is a Place Secured in Christ (1b);
C. It is a Proof Substantiated by Christ (1c)
 
Thot 2: A Life Delivered from the Slavery of Sin (2)
A. The Victorious Law of the Spirit Life (2a)
B. The Vanquished Law of the Sin Life (2b)
 
Thot 3: A Life Delivered from the Sickness of Sin (3-4)
A. The Fleshly Weakness of the Law of Sin (3a)
B. The Finished Work of the Lord our Savior (3b)
C. The Fulfilling Walk of the Life in the Spirit (4)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I will trust Christ Jesus as my Savior and rest in His perfect work.
Italicized words from the sermonnotebook.org by Pastor Alan Carr, Calvary Baptist Church in Lenoir, NC. Used by permission.  

*******

Teacher: Lay Minister Dorian Saunders, Sr.
Time: Sunday Morning, June 4, 2023
Title: To Be Announced
Text: To Be Announced 

*******Teacher: Bishop George McLaughlin
Time: Sunday Morning, May 28, 2023
Title: Speak Life
Text: Proverbs 18:21

*******

Teacher: Bishop Levi Clarke
Time: Sunday Morning, May 21, 2023
Title: Faint Not!
Text: Luke 18:1-8

*******

Teacher: Lay Minister Luis Rodriguez
Time: Sunday Morning, May 14, 2023
Title: A Mother's Impact
Text: Genesis 17:15-16

*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan 
Time: Sunday Morning, May 7, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (13 of 13) 
Title: Adhering to Distinctives   
 
Text: Nehemiah 13:30-31 (Printed); Nehemiah 13:1-31 (Presented)
30 Thus I cleansed them of everything pagan. I also assigned duties to the priests and the Levites, each to his service, 31 and to bringing the wood offering and the firstfruits at appointed times. Remember me, O my God, for good!
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
During Nehemiah’s absence, the people forsook their covenant with God; adopting the lifestyle and practices of the idolaters around them. Nehemiah leads them in repentance to God and restoration with Him.
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
We are cautioned not to conform to the ways of the world around us; but to transform to the will of God within us (Romans 12:1-2).
 
Thot 1: The Sanctuary Misused (1-9)
A. The Pagans are Separated from Barging into the Holy Temple (1-3);
B. The Places are Stopped from Being a House for Tobiah (4-9)
 
Thot 2: The Stewardship Missing (10-14)
A. The Levites were Abandoned of Sustenance and They Resorted to Toiling (10);
B. The Leaders were Admonished Sternly and They Resumed Tithing (11-14)
 
Thot 3: The Sabbath Merchandised (15-22)
A. The Working and Wares Defiled It (15a, 16, 20)
B. The Watching and Warnings Defended It (15b, 17-19, 21-22)
 
Thot 4: The Sacrilege of Marriage (23-29)
A. The Prevalence of Moral Compromise among the People (23-27)
B. The Permeative Malicious Corruption within the Priesthood (28-31)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
God, lead me into repentance and restoration where I have forsaken You. Spirit of God, please search my heart and try my ways; and lead me into Your everlasting way (Psalm 139:23-24). As I confess my sins, forgive me, and cleanse me from them (1 John 1:9).

*******

Teacher: Lay Minister Dorian Saunders, Sr.
Time: Sunday Morning, April 30, 2023
Title: Experiencing the Power of God
Text: Ephesians 3:20; 5:18

*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, April 23, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (12 of 13)
Title: Adoration and Dedication
 
Text: Nehemiah 12:40-43 (Printed); Nehemiah 12:1-47 (Presented)
40 So the two thanksgiving choirs stood in the house of God, likewise I and the half of the rulers with me; 41 and the priests, Eliakim, Maaseiah, [a]Minjamin, Michaiah, Elioenai, Zechariah, and Hananiah, with trumpets; 42 also Maaseiah, Shemaiah, Eleazar, Uzzi, Jehohanan, Malchijah, Elam, and Ezer. The singers [b]sang loudly with Jezrahiah the director. 43 Also that day they offered great sacrifices, and rejoiced, for God had made them rejoice with great joy; the women and the children also rejoiced, so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard afar off.  Footnote: a. Or Mijamin, v. 5; b. Lit. made their voice to be heard
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
The repaired wall is dedicated and celebrated via songs and rejoicing.
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
Broken people, restored to a right relationship with God, likewise dedicate themselves via celebrations with singing and rejoicing!
 
Thot 1: The Worship was Dictated and Prescribed (24)
A. The Multitude of Devotees Prearranged Together (24a, 27b);
B. The Manner of Demonstrations via Planned Tones (24b, 27c)
 
Thot 2: The Wall was Dedicated by Performers (27a, 31, 38, 40-42)
A. The Musicians Divided in Parallel and in Turn (31, 38, 40);
B. The Massive Decibels Propagated Throughout (42-43)
 
Thot 3: The Whole Host was Delighted with Pleasure (44-47)
A. The Munificence Daily Provided via Tithes (44, 47)
B. The Mandate of David for Praise and Thanksgiving (45-46)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
God heals my brokenness and restores me; so, I will sing of the Lord’s mercies forever and make known His faithfulness to all generations! 

*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, April 16, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (11 of 13)
Title: Assignments and Dwellings
 
Text: Nehemiah 11:24 (Printed); Nehemiah 11:1-36 (Presented)
24 Pethahiah the son of Meshezabel, of the children of Zerah the son of Judah, was the[a] king’s deputy in all matters concerning the people.
Footnote: a. at the king’s hand
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
Numerous people were assigned to dwell and serve in many places and in various roles. While some were highly visible; most were obscure. It must have been easy to feel overlooked or insignificant. Yet, Pethahiah’s dwelling and assignment reminds us that he was known by the King and was important and essential to him. So, Pethahiah served the king where he placed him.  
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
It’s easy to feel lost in the crowd and mistakenly think that you are unseen and unimportant. First and foremost, God knows you; and He has placed you just where you are now; and He wants you to serve Him and thrive there! So do it!
 
Thot 1: The Minority (1/10) lived in the Capital and the Sacred City (1a, 3a, 4-24)
A. Those Serving as Leaders (1a, 3a);
B. Those Selected by Lots (1b)
C. Those Sons from Lineages (4-9)
    i. The Tribe of Judah (4b-6, 25-30);
   ii. The Tribe of Benjamin (7-9, 31-35)
D. Those Sacerdotal and Levitical (3b, 10-24, 36)
    i. Their Names;
   ii. Their Numbers;
  iii. Their Niches;
   iv. Their Neighborhoods (4-35)
E. The Sovereign’s Lieutenant (24)
 
Thot 2: The Majority (9/10) lived in the Country and the Surrounding Cities (1c, 3b; 25-36)
 
Thot 3: The Monarch’s Lieutenant to the Citizens for their Several Concerns (24)
A. The Meaning in the Persons’ Called
​{Judah=Praise; Zerah=Dawn, Rising; Meshezabel=God Delivers; Pethahiah=God opens, loosens, releases};
B. The Mission for His Position Characterized {He is God’s Deputy or Agent};
C. The Matters of the People Cited {Security; Prosperity; Harmony; Fidelity; Spirituality}
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I will serve God in the role and in the place in His kingdom where He puts me!

*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Easter or Resurrection Sunday Morning, April 9, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (10 of 13)
Title: Agnus Dei (Lamb of God)!
 
Text: Nehemiah 10:35-37 (Printed); Nehemiah 10:1-39 (Presented)
35 And we made ordinances to bring the firstfruits of our ground and the firstfruits of all fruit of all trees, year by year, to the house of the Lord; 36 to bring the firstborn of our sons and our cattle, as it is written in the Law, and the firstborn of our herds and our flocks, to the house of our God, to the priests who minister in the house of our God; 37 to bring the firstfruits of our dough, our offerings, the fruit from all kinds of trees, the new wine and oil, to the priests, to the storerooms of the [a]house of our God; and to bring the tithes of our land to the Levites, for the Levites should receive the tithes in all our farming communities.
Footnote: a. Temple
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Emphasis via underscore is mine.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
The people (1-29) seal their covenantal document and outline their full list of statutes (30-39) to faithfully practice in affirmation of their relationship with God. They promise to give their first and best of everything, including their firstborn, to God (35-38); reflecting that God would give His First and Best (His Son, the Messiah) to them (and us)! This keeps their focus concerning worship on the redemption of their firstborn sons by God (36) as prescribed in the Law (i.e., to redeem them via a sacrificial lamb).  
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
This practice of redeeming the firstborn centered worship on God’s redemptive plan for Israel and all humanity via His Son, Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God! This prefigures that Jesus, the Firstborn (i.e., His Preexistence before all as Creator; His Preeminence above all as Lord; and His Propitiation for all as Redeemer, see Colossians 1:12-23), being God’s Son, would come as God’s Sacrificial Lamb to redeem them (and us)! 
 
Thot 1: The Promising of the Covenant (1-29)
A. Those Who Sealed to It are Listed (1-27)
B. Those Who Separated for It are Labeled (28-29)
     i. As Abandoning the Licentiousness of the Gentiles (28a);
     ii. As Abiding in the Law of God (28b-29)
 
Thot 2: The Practicing of the Canons (30-39)
A. The Sanctity of Marriage and Fidelity (30);
B. The Sabbath and Merchandising Forsaken (31a)
C. The Surrender of the 7th Year’s Mowing Forgone (32b)
D. The Squeezing of Money Forbidden (31c)
E. The Shekels for Maintenance Furnished (32-33)
F. The Sending of Materials Faithfully (34)
G. The Sacrifices Made First (35-39)
      i. The Firstfruits Released (35, 37a)
      ii. The Firstborn Redeemed (36)
      iii. The First Tenth Required (37b-39a)
H. The Sufficiency for Ministry Foremost (39b)
 
Thot 3: The Prefiguring of Christ (36)
A. The Firstborn is Pure (Exo 11:4-7; 12:3-13, 21-24; 13:11-16; Num 18:15-17)
     i. Flawless Mammals’ Blood was Shed and Food Consumed;
     ii. Flawed Mankind Bought via Sacrifice and Five Coins
 
B. The Feast of the Passover (Exo 4:22-23; 11:1-10; 12:1-13; Mat 26:14-16; 26-30)
      i. Celebrated by Consecrated Jews;
     ii. Completed by Christ Jesus
 
C. The Future Prophecy (1 Peter 1:18-21; Rev 5:1-14; 13:8b)
      i. The Weeping for One to Loosen the Seals;
     ii. The Worthy One is the Lamb Slain
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I place my faith in the Risen Savior, Jesus my Redeemer! Always at the heart of my worship, will be the redemptive work of Christ, the Lamb of God! 

*******

Teacher: Lay Minister Luis Rodriguez
Time: Palm Sunday Morning, April 2, 2023
Title: The Pursuit of Holiness
Text: 1 Peter 1:1-2

*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, March 26, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (9 of 13)
 
Title: Their Apologetic Demeanor!
Text: Nehemiah 9:1-3, 38 (Printed); Nehemiah 9:1-38 (Presented)
9 Now on the twenty-fourth day of this month the children of Israel were assembled with fasting, in sackcloth, and with [a]dust on their heads. 2 Then those of Israelite lineage separated themselves from all foreigners; and they stood and confessed their sins and the iniquities of their fathers. 3 And they stood up in their place and read from the Book of the Law of the Lord their God for one-fourth of the day; and for another fourth they confessed and worshiped the Lord their God. ... 38 “And because of all this, We make a sure covenant and write it; Our leaders, our Levites, and our priests seal it.” Footnotes: a. Lit. earth on them
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
The people, convicted by God’s Word, respond with their confession, their contrition, and their pursuit of a covenant relationship with God.
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
God’s Word brings conviction. Our response should be confession and repentance and a desire for a restored relationship with God.
 
Thot 1: The People’s Contrition before God (9:1-2a)
A. They Humble Themselves before God the Father (1)
B. They Hallow Themselves from the Gentile Foreigners (2a)
     
Thot 2: The People’s Confession to God (9:2b-3)
A. They Repent:
     i. Of Their Personal Sins (2bi);
    ii. Of Their Predecessors’ Sins (2bii)
B. They Reflect:
    i. Via a Perusal of Holy Scripture (3a);
    ii. Via a Praise to the Heavenly Sovereign (3b);
    iii. Via a Portrayed Historic Summary (4-37)       
 
Thot 3: The People’s Covenant with God (9:38)
A. It’s Sincere (38a);
B. It’s Scripted (38b);
C. It’s Sealed (38c)
 
​Transformation: How should this truth change me?
If I do not know God, then I will confess and repent of my sins and by faith in His grace, enter a right relationship with Him (Ephesians 2:1-10). If I know God, then I will ask His forgiveness of any unconfessed sins (1 John 1:9-2:2). 

*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, March 19, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (8 of 13)
 
Title: The Assembly Delighted!
Text: Nehemiah 8:8-10 (Printed); Nehemiah 8:1-18 (Presented)
8 They read out of the book of the law of God, translating and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was read. 9 Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to all of them, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people were weeping as they heard the words of the law. 10 Then he said to them, “Go and eat what is rich, drink what is sweet, and send portions to those who have nothing prepared, since today is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, because the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
[a] Footnotes: a. Or stronghold
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
The city walls and gates were now restored; but the people were not! Then Ezra, the priest, shares God’s Word and the people are renewed!
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
The Living Precepts of God change us into the Living People of God!
 
Thot 1: The Reading of God’s Word (8:8)
A. The Torah Expressed (8a);
B. The Translation Extracted (8b);
C. The Telling Explained (8c)
     i. Observation;
     ii. Interpretation;
     iii. Application;
     iv. Corroboration
 
Thot 2: The Response to God’s Word (8:9)
A. The Gathered Leaders (9a);
B. The Given Lecture (9b);
C. The Grieving Lamentation (9c)
 
Thot 3: The Rejoicing at God’s Word (8:10)
A. The Caring Directive (10a);
B. The Consecrated Day (10b);
C. The Celebratory Delight (10c)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
May God’s Word bring His people (including me) revival! 

*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan 
Time: Sunday Morning, March 12, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (7 of 13) 

Title: The Accomplishment Done!
Text: Nehemiah 6:15-7:73 (Printed); Nehemiah 6:15-16 (Presented)
15 The wall was completed in fifty-two days, on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul. 16 When all our enemies heard this, all the surrounding nations were intimidated and lost their confidence, [a] for they realized that this task had been accomplished by our God. Footnotes: a. Lit and fell greatly in their eyes 
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
With God’s help, Nehemiah and his workers complete the wall in 52 days!
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
God can do extraordinary things through ordinary people and in record time!
 
Thot 1: The Restorations Dumbfound (6:15-19)
A. The Task Finished (15a);
B. The Time Framed (15b)
C. The Troubled Foes (16)
      i. At the Sounds of the Reports;
     ii. At the Sights of the Repairs;
    iii. At the Sovereignty of our Redeemer
D. The Textual Folly (17);
E. The Ties of Family (18)
      i.  The Connecting Links;
     ii. The Controlling Longs  
F. The Telling of Feats (helpful for Tobiah) (19a)
G. The Topics Falsified (harmful for Nehemiah) (19b)
H. Tobiah’s Tries to Frighten (19b)
 
Thot 2: The Responsibility Delegated (7:1-4)
A. The Completed Project Appeared (1a);
B. The Competent Professionals Apportioned (1b);
C. The Companions to Positions Appointed (2)
      i. Their Faithfulness to God;
     ii. Their Fearfulness of God
D. The Charges for Precautions Accepted (3)
      i. Confidence at the Gates and Doors (3a);
    ii. Caution at the Guard-Posts and Domiciles (3b)
E. The Challenges to the People Acknowledged (4)
      i. The Spacious City;
     ii. The Sparse Citizens;
    iii. Their Shelters Collapsed
 
Thot 3: The Registry Developed (7:5-73)
A. The List of the Present Group to be Delineated and Recorded (5a)
B. The List of the Previous Groups is Discovered and Reviewed (5b-6)
      i. Their Names (7-67);
     ii. Their Numbers (7-67);
    iii. Their Nativities (7-67);
     iv. Their Natures (68-69);
      v. Their Niceties (70-72);
     vi. Their Networks (73a);
    vii. Their Neighborhoods (73b)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I say, “God please do something remarkable right now by me for your glory!”  


*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan 
Time: Sunday Morning, March 5, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (6 of 13)

Title: The Adversarial Devices
Text: Nehemiah 6:1-3 (Printed); Nehemiah 6:1-14 (Presented)
6 Now it happened when Sanballat, Tobiah, [a]Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall, and that there were no breaks left in it (though at that time I had not hung the doors in the gates), 2 that Sanballat and [b]Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come, let us meet together [c]among the villages in the plain of Ono.” But they thought to do me harm. 3 So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?”
Footnotes: a, b and d, Or Gashmu; c. Or in Kephirim, exact location unknown
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about? Nehemiah and his people have rebuilt the walls and are nearing completion (lacking the doors) when their enemies again confront him, the leader, repeatedly with various efforts to stop them.
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
As key leaders in our families, churches, etc., we too are pummeled with attacks from the devil aimed at disrupting us from doing God’s work.  
 
Thot 1: The Launching of Incessant Distractions (6:1-4)
A. They are Ploys (1-3)
      i. The Ruse of It (1-2)
     ii. The Response to It (3)
B. They are Persistent (4-5a)
 
Thot 2: The Letter of Indictment and Defamation (6:5b-9)
A. The Accusations to be Reported:
      i. About a Rebelling People (6a)
     ii. About a Rebuilding Project (6b)
      iii. About a Ruling Potentate (6c)
     iv. About a Revealing Prophet (7a)
B. The Answers to be Retorted:
     i. These are Fabrications of the Mind (9a)
     ii. These are Fearmongering Methods (9b)
     iii. These are Fatigue Makers (9c)
 
Thot 3: The Lying Incitement to Dismay (6:10-14)
A. The Deceptive Scare (10)
B. The Decisive Statement (11)
C. The Discernment of the Spirit (12-13)
​D. The Divine Supplication (14)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
As a believer, I will be aware of and rebut the devil’s tricks to deny me from doing God’s work and enjoying the victories that He has appointed for me. 

*******

Teacher: Lay Minister Dorian Saunders, Sr.
Time: Sunday Morning, February 26, 2023
Title: A Sense of Urgency
Text: Mark 1:17-18

*******

Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, February 19, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (5 of 13)
 
Title: The Agonizing Dearth and the Appalling Deeds
Text:  Nehemiah 5:1-3, 9-10, 19 (Printed); Nehemiah 5:1-19 (Presented)
5 And there was a great outcry of the people and their wives against their Jewish brethren. 2 For there were those who said, “We, our sons, and our daughters are many; therefore let us get grain, that we may eat and live.” 3 There were also some who said, “We have mortgaged our lands and vineyards and houses, that we might buy grain because of the famine.” … 9 Then I said, “What you are doing is not good. Should you not walk in the fear of our God because of the reproach of the nations, our enemies? 10 I also, with my brethren and my servants, am lending them money and grain. Please, let us stop this [a]usury! … 19 Remember me, my God, for good, according to all that I have done for this people. Footnotes: a. interest  
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®.  Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
While rebuilding the wall, a famine worsens and oppresses the people. Some abuse others via high interest charges on debt, and bondage through service.  
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
We should always treat one another justly as God directs us, whether times are good or bad, and whether it is convenient and advantageous for us or not.
 
Thot 1: The Misfortunes of the Nation (5:1-5)
A. The Famine Lingers (5:1-2, 3b);
B. The Financed Loans (5:3a, 4)
C. The Forced Labor (5:4-5a);
D. The Failed Liberation (5:5b)
     
Thot 2: The Mistake by the Nobles (5:6-13)
A. The Embroiled Rebuke Stated (6-7)
      i. Nehemiah’s Indignation for them (6);
     ii. Nehemiah’s Indictment of them (7)
B. The Embarrassed Reproach Summarized (8-9)
      i. The Historical Account Recalled (8a);
     ii. The Humiliating Actions Rebuffed (8b-9)
C. The Embedded Resolution Submitted (10b-13)
      i. A Detailed Vocalization Made (10b-12);
     ii. A Deterrent Visualization Modeled (13)
 
Thot 3: The Munificence of the Nehemiah (5:10a, 14-19)
A. His Tenderness (10a);
B. His Time (14a);
C. His Tactics (14b - 15)
D. His Task (16a);
E. His Teamwork (16b);
F. His Table (17-18);
​G. His Trust (19)
     
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
Apply the Golden Rule; do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, February 12, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (4 of 13)

Title: The Answer to Discouragement? Prayer!
Text:  Nehemiah 4:6, 8-9, 14, 20 (Printed); Nehemiah 4:1-23 (Presented)
6 So we built the wall, and the entire wall was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work. … 8 and all of them (the enemies)* conspired together to come and attack Jerusalem and create confusion. 9 Nevertheless we made our prayer to our God, and because of them we set a watch against them day and night. … 14 And I looked, and arose and said to the nobles, to the leaders, and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, great and awesome, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses.” … 20 Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us.”
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®.  Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. *Parenthesis is mine.

Tale: What is this passage talking about?
The enemies tried to discourage Nehemiah and the people from their work. Nehemiah and the people’s answer was to pray to God for encouragement!

Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
The enemy (devil) plots to discourage believers from doing God’s work. What is our answer to this diabolical ploy? We too are to pray for encouragement!

Thot 1: The Preying Adversaries (4:1-3,7-8, 10-12)
A. Their Malicious Attitudes (4:1-3, 7)
      i. They are Infuriating Madmen (1a, 7);
     ii. They are Insulting Mockers (1b-3)
B. Their Malevolent Attempts (4:8)
      i. They Conspire Schemes and Abuse (8a);
     ii. They Confuse with Shock and Awe (8b)
C. Their Malignant Attacks (4:10-12)
      i. They Savor Fatigue (10a);
     ii. They Shift Focus (10b);
     iii. They Sow Fear (11-12)

Thot 2: The Praying Advocates (4:4-6, 9)
A. The Prayer of Rebuke and Determination (4:4-6)
      i. Their Imprecatory Outcry (4-5);
     ii. Their Impressive Outcome (6)   
B. The Prayer for a Ready Defense (4:9, 13-15)
      i. Their Watchfulness Resolutely Constant (9, 13a);
     ii. Their Warfare Rightfully Conspicuous (13b-14, 16-23)
     iii. Their Work on Repairs Continuous (15 -16-23)
     iv. Their Wall and the Rally Call (19-20)

Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I will watch, pray, and courageously accomplish the work God has assigned me! 

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, February 5, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (3 of 13)
​
Title: The Assignments Delegated
Text:  Nehemiah 3:1-2 (Printed); Nehemiah 3:1-32 (Presented)
3 Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests and built the Sheep Gate; they consecrated it and hung its doors. They built as far as the Tower of the Hundred, and consecrated it, then as far as the Tower of Hananel. 2 Next to Eliashib the men of Jericho built. And next to them Zaccur the son of Imri built. 3 Also the sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate; they laid its beams and hung its doors with its bolts and bars. 4 And next to them …
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®.  Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
The restoration of the City of Jerusalem, lying in ruins, was a massive undertaking! Yet, God had inspired and enabled Nehemiah to lead a caravan of people there to share in doing the work with him! They enthusiastically embraced and embarked on the work (Neh. 2:18).
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
 Whatever God is asking you to do, He will inspire and enable you (and provide people to join you) in the realization of it!
 
Thot 1: The Repairs for the Workers are Abundant! (3:1-32)
A. The Doors (Gates)
B. The Dividers (Walls)
C. The Defenses (Towers)
 
Thot 2: The Responsibilities of the Workers are Abreast! (3:1-32)
A. The Work Beside Them (1-32)
B. The Work Before Them (28, 30b)
 
Thot 3: The Reputations about the Workers are Absolute! (3:1-32)
A. Most Do Nominal Work (1-32)
B. Some Do No Work (5b)
C. Few Do New (More) Work (5a, 8, 13, 27, 30a)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens (enables) me!

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Teacher: Lay Minister Luis Rodriguez
Time: Sunday Morning, January 29, 2023
Title: Expectations of John the Baptist
Text: Matthew 11:1-6

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, January 22, 2023
Theme: North America Prayer P.U.S.H.
 
Title: And When They Had Prayed!
Text:  Acts 4:31; 5:14, 16 (Printed); Acts 4:23-31; 5:12-16 (Presented)
31 And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness. … 14 And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, … 16 Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®.  Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
The early church, reeling from persecution, gathers to pray; and God brings a shaking to them; and a transformation among them!
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
Prayer changes things! Prayer changes people!
 
Thot 1: An Awakening to Prayer by the Spirit’s Presence! (4:23-30; 5:12)
A. Their Current Persecution (4:23)
B. Their Correct Perspective (4:24-28)
C. Their Confident Petitions (4:29-30)
 
Thot 2: A Shaking in Prayer by the Spirit’s Power! (4:31)
A. Their Spiritual Filling Within (31a)
B. Their Special Flowing Without (31b)
 
Thot 3: A Making from Prayer with the Spirit’s Purpose! (4:32-37; 5:12-16)
A. Their Singleheartedness in Gathering (4:32; 5:12b, 16a)
B. Their Stretch via Going (4:33)
C. Their Stewardship in Giving (4:34-37)
D. Their Stellar Growing (5:13-14)
E. Their Supernatural Gracing (5:12a, 16b)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I believe that prayer can change me (us) today! Let’s take time to P.U.S.H. (Pray Until Something Happens)! Oh, God, wake me (us) up! Shake me (us) up! Make me (us) up! Transform me (us) into who You want me (us) to be! 

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan
Time: Sunday Morning, January 15, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (2 of 13)
 
Title: The Assessment of the Damages
Text:  Nehemiah 2:17-18 (Printed); Nehemiah 2:11-20 (Presented)
17 Then I said to them, “You see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lies [a]waste, and its gates are burned with fire. Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.” 18 And I told them of the hand of my God which had been good upon me, and also of the king’s words that he had spoken to me. So they said, “Let us rise up and build.” Then they set[b] their hands to this good work.
Footnotes: a. desolate; b. Lit. strengthened
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®.  Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
Equipped with God’s favor and the king’s authority, Nehemiah goes to Jerusalem, evaluates the ruins, inspires the people, and they together begin the repairs to rebuild the city; while dismissing the fault-finders and nay-sayers!  
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean?
Buoyed with God’s favor and authority, believers should examine themselves, identify any brokenness, and begin rebuilding while snubbing their detractors.  
 
Thot 1: Viewing the Ruins (2:11-16)
A. His Courageous and Humble Presence in the City (2:11)
B. His Careful and Harmless Privacy at the City (2:12, 16)
C. His Candid and Holistic Perusal of the City (2:13-15)
 
Thot 2: Voicing the Responsibility (2:17-18)
A. His Proclamation from God is Reported Heartily (2:17)
B. His Praises toward God Resound Heavenly (2:18a) 
C. His People for God Respond Helpfully (2:18b)
 
Thot 3: Vanquishing the Rivals (2:19-20)
A. The Personal Rebukes Hurled at Him by His Enemies (2:19)  
B. The Powerful Routing Heaped by Him upon His Enemies (2:20)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I will honestly examine my situation; believe God’s Word; and walk in His favor. With God’s help, and the support of believers, I will rise and begin repairing what is broken in all the areas of my life; and not listen to any critics. 

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan 
Time: Sunday Morning, January 8, 2023
Theme: Fixing What’s Broken (1 of 13)
Title: The Anxious Dilemma
Text:  Nehemiah 2:4-5, 6b (Printed) Nehemiah 1:1-2:10 (Presented)
4 Then the king said to me, “What do you request?” So I prayed to the God of heaven. 5 And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ tombs, that I may rebuild it.” 6b … So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time.”
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®.  Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Tale: What is this passage talking about?
Nehemiah hears a troubling report that the exiles in Judah are suffering and that Jerusalem still lies in ruins. He desires to return and rebuild the city. He prays to God, and the king grants him permission, provision, and protection.

Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
When we hear disturbing reports, we too can pray to God and seek His favor for us to do something to remedy the situation at hand; and He will use us!

Thot 1: The Report to Nehemiah about Judah (1:1-3)
A. The Place of Shushan (1:1)
B. The Probe about the Survivors (1:2)
C. The Perilous Situation (1:3)
      i. Their Distress and Noticeable Reproach (3a)
      ii. The Destruction and Need for Repairs (3b)
                  a. Broken Dividers (Walls)
                  b. Burned Doors (Gates)
D. The Prayer of Supplication (1:4-11)
      i. His Response before God’s Fearsomeness (4-6a)
      ii. His Repentance and God’s Forgiveness (6b-7)
      iii. His Reminder about Gods Faithfulness (8-9)
      iv. His Request for God’s Favor (10-11)

Thot 2: The Return of Nehemiah to Judah (2:1-10)
A. His Presentation is Sad (2:1-3);
B. His Prayer is Sudden (2:4)
C. His Petition is Sought (2:5)
D. His Permission is Sanctioned (2:6)
E. His Provision is Supplied (2:7-8)
F. His Protection is Secured (2:9-10)

​Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I will seek to become a solution to the problems around me. I will find a need and fill it. I will find a hurt and heal it. I will make this world a better place! 

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Teacher: Bishop Ben Duncan.
Time: Sunday Morning, January 1, 2023
Title: Fasting and Praying for Our New Year’s Journey
Theme: New Year's Message (21 Days of Prayer and Fasting)
Text:  Ezra 8:21-23 (Printed & Presented)
21 Then I proclaimed a fast there at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from Him the right way for us and our little ones and all our possessions. 22 For I was ashamed to request of the king an escort of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy on the road, because we had spoken to the king, saying, “The hand of our God is upon all those for good who seek Him, but His power and His wrath are against all those who forsake Him.” 23 So we fasted and entreated our God for this, and He answered our prayer.
New King James Version (NKJV).  Scripture taken from the New King James Version®.  Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
 
Tale: What is this passage talking about?
As they begin their journey from their internment in Babylon (i.e., meaning confusion or puzzlement) to their independence in Jerusalem (i.e., meaning calm or peace), Ezra and the Israelites fast and pray for God to open a pathway for them, give protection around them, and make provision for them.
 
Truth:  What do these scriptures mean to me?
As we journey into a New Year, let us seek God in fasting and prayer for His pathway for us, His protection around us, and His provision for us. Let us abandon last year’s bondage and rather abide in the New Year’s blessings!
 
Thot 1: Ezra’s Ruling for Fasting (21)
A. His Submitting Deferentially to God (21a)
B. His Seeking Direction from God (21b)
 
Thot 2: Ezra’s Remarks before Fasting (22)
A. His Self-consciousness about His Dismay before God (22a)
B. His Self-confidence in His Dependency upon God (22b)
 
Thot 3: Ezra’s Results from Fasting (23)
A. His Suffering Diligently for God (23a)
B. His Support Directly from God (23b)
 
Transformation: How should this truth change me?
I will seek God in prayer and fasting for His shepherding of me, His security around me, and His supplies for me for this year as He frees me and favors me.