Sermons That Exalt Christ

The Reason We Live - Part 1

The sermon "The Reason We Live, Part 1," based on Philippians 1:18b-26, asserts that true Christianity is fundamentally centered on Jesus Christ. Many misinterpret faith, remaining "miles from the true heart" because Christ is not their central focus. Pastor Tom Pennington highlights Paul's life as a model, emphasizing that a Christian's primary ambition should be to exalt Jesus Christ. This commitment brings three significant benefits: undiminished joy, derived from living for a purpose greater than oneself; unwavering confidence, as all life circumstances ultimately advance Christ's cause; and ultimate vindication, knowing God will uphold those dedicated to His Son. Paul's "blueprint" for exalting Christ includes an "earnest expectation and hope" to never be ashamed before God. This involves "magnifying" Christ�showing and declaring His greatness�through speaking up boldly, living consistently, never quitting, and embracing all circumstances, whether in life or death. The sermon concludes by urging listeners to dedicate their lives to exalting Christ, ensuring lasting joy, confidence, and vindication.

God's Eternal Guarantee

What Are Your Intentions? - Part 2

The sermon on Philippians 1:15-18a explores the complex issue of motives in Christian ministry, presenting two key points: the reality of mixed motives and a mature believer's appropriate response. Pastor Tom Pennington details how the imprisoned Apostle Paul observed two groups of genuine Christians in Rome preaching Christ. One group acted from "envy and strife," driven by selfish ambition and aiming to cause Paul distress, resenting his influence. The other group preached from "good will" and "love," understanding Paul's divine calling to defend the Gospel. The sermon stresses the critical importance of love as a pure motive, drawing from 1 Corinthians 13. Despite the malicious intentions of some, Paul expresses profound joy, stating, "What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice." This perspective is not a call to ignore sin or tolerate doctrinal error, but rather to rejoice in the genuine proclamation of Christ's message when direct confrontation of motives isn't feasible, trusting that God ultimately judges hearts.

What Are Your Intentions? - Part 1

The text highlights the critical role of "motive," illustrating its importance through legal cases where intent dictates punishment and, more significantly, in God's economy, where He "weighs the hearts" and judges not just deeds but their underlying purpose. God's Word also actively discerns the "thoughts and intentions of the heart." Examining Philippians 1:15-18a, the speaker focuses on Apostle Paul's unique response to genuine Christians preaching Christ with mixed motives. While some preached from "good will" and love, others did so out of "envy and strife," driven by selfish ambition to distress Paul during his imprisonment. The speaker extensively argues that these anti-Paul preachers were true believers sharing the true Gospel, a point underscored by Paul's rejoicing that Christ was proclaimed, a response he would never give to heretics. Paul's experience provides an example for the Philippian church, which also grappled with internal divisions. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that mixed motives are an undeniable reality in Christian ministry, often manifesting as envy and rivalry. Therefore, believers must consistently evaluate their own motives, ensuring their service to Christ and others arises from genuine love rather than self-promotion or competition, recognizing that God assesses the heart.

The Breath of God - Part 5

The pastor defends biblical inspiration through three lines of argument: internal claims, external evidences, and the Holy Spirit's authentication. External proofs include the church's consistent historical affirmation of inspiration and inerrancy across centuries. Other evidences are the Bible's supernatural character, unique internal unity despite diverse authors, and uncommon accuracy in textual preservation, historical details, and numerous fulfilled prophecies. The credible character of its honest writers and the profound historical results�including Christianity's rapid expansion and countless transformed lives�further attest to its divine power. Crucially, these objective arguments, while compelling, are insufficient for an unbeliever's genuine faith. Ultimate belief stems from the Holy Spirit's "inner witness." The natural mind, blinded by sin (1 Cor 2:14, 2 Cor 4:4), cannot grasp God's Word. Thus, God, through the Spirit, supernaturally illuminates the heart (2 Cor 4:6), enabling individuals to "hear His voice" (John 10:27) directly through Scripture, removing spiritual blindness. This understanding mandates expository preaching, systematic study for application, and utilizing Scripture in evangelism, trusting the Spirit for transformation.

Living Above Your Circumstances

Life is full of trouble, and humans often respond with doubt or despair. However, Paul, imprisoned and facing an uncertain future, demonstrated how to live "above your circumstances" with joy and confidence. His secret was choosing to think rightly about adversity, offering four key responses for believers. First, **live for God�s purposes**. Paul viewed his imprisonment as advancing the gospel, prioritizing Christ's exaltation over personal hardship. Second, **look for God�s plan**. Trusting God�s sovereign purpose in all suffering, he sought to discern His hand, knowing all things work for good. Third, **lift up the gospel**. He used his chains as a platform to boldly share Christ, proving adversity can be a powerful pulpit. Finally, **don�t let down God�s people**. Paul�s courageous example emboldened other believers to speak God�s Word without fear, understanding our response influences fellow Christians. By adopting these attitudes�living for God's glory, seeking His design, proclaiming the gospel, and strengthening others�we can, like Paul, transcend our troubles and experience joy, regardless of our circumstances.