Sermons That Exalt Christ

A Vision of the Exalted Christ - Part 1

Tom Pennington's sermon explores John's vision of the exalted Christ in Revelation 1:9-20. Given during intense Roman persecution under Emperor Domitian, with John exiled on Patmos, the vision aimed to reassure suffering Christians that Jesus remained present and powerful. On the Lord's Day, John, "in the Spirit," heard a trumpet-like voice instructing him to write and send what he saw to seven churches. He turned to behold "one like a son of man"�Jesus�standing among seven golden lampstands, representing the churches. This vision illustrates Christ's ongoing ministry to His church. His white hair symbolizes incomparable wisdom, His fiery eyes denote penetrating omniscience evaluating His church, and His feet like burnished bronze signify His personal holiness purifying it. A voice like many waters underscores His authoritative word, while seven stars in His right hand confirm His sovereign control over church leaders. A sharp two-edged sword from His mouth represents His devastating judgment defending His church, and His face, shining like the sun, proclaims His matchless glory that captivates and transforms believers. This vision ultimately comforts Christians, assuring them of Christ's intimate presence, intercession, purification, and defense amidst all tribulation.

The Reasons for Romans - Part 3

Tom Pennington�s sermon from Romans 15:14-33 highlights the dire global spiritual need, noting billions have not heard the Gospel, underscoring the urgency of the Great Commission. Paul�s letter to the Romans served two main purposes: to remind believers of fundamental Gospel truths and to prepare them for his intended visit en route to Spain. Paul's overarching mission strategy was "pioneer frontline missions." His ambition was to preach the Gospel where Christ had never been named or worshipped, thus laying the foundation for new churches in "virgin gospel territory." This approach, mandated by Isaiah 52:15, ensured he wasn't building on others' work but fulfilling Christ�s specific apostolic assignment. While Paul also strengthened existing churches, his primary focus remained on expanding the reach of the Gospel to unreached nations. Pennington outlines several lessons for contemporary believers. The church must continue to prioritize and financially support frontline missions, particularly among unreached people groups. Individuals are urged to fervently pray for more missionaries, for the Gospel's rapid spread and glorification, and for the success of those serving on the frontlines.

The King is Coming!

Pastor Tom Pennington's sermon "Revelations The King is Coming!" from February 28, 2021, focuses on Jesus Christ's powerful promise, "I will return," as introduced in Revelation 1:7-8. Drawing a parallel to General Douglas MacArthur's famous vow, Pennington emphasizes the infinitely greater significance of Christ's Second Coming as the central theme and climax of Revelation. The sermon outlines six crucial features of this event. Firstly, its unparalleled importance as a fundamental Christian doctrine, widely affirmed in Scripture. Secondly, its undeniable reality, reiterated throughout the New Testament. Thirdly, its unbroken promise, rooted in Old Testament prophecies from Daniel 7 and Zechariah 12. Fourthly, its unspeakable glory, with Jesus returning "with the clouds" in divine splendor. Fifthly, its universal appearance, as "every eye will see Him" in blinding brilliance. Lastly, its unwavering purpose: to bring salvation to Israel, destroy His unrepentant enemies (who will mourn in despair), and vindicate His name, reversing the world's last glimpse of Him as a dying criminal. God's self-declaration in Revelation 1:8 as "the Alpha and the Omega," "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty," underscores the unalterable certainty and sovereign power behind this promised return.

The Reasons for Romans - Part 2

Pastor Tom Pennington explains Paul�s letter to the Romans serves two main purposes: a timeless spiritual reminder of the gospel for all believers, and a timely ministry purpose to prepare Roman Christians for his visit. From Romans 15:17-19, Pennington extracts five crucial lessons for all who serve Christ. Firstly, Christ is the sole reason for all spiritual accomplishments. Paul boasted in what Christ achieved *through* him, emphasizing that believers are merely channels. Secondly, Christ sets the spiritual goal for ministry: "the obedience of the Gentiles." This includes both initial repentance and faith in the gospel, and a lifelong pattern of obedience to Christ's Word, facilitated by preaching and, for apostles, confirming miracles. Thirdly, Christ provides spiritual gifts for each assignment. Paul, as an apostle, was empowered with "signs and wonders" to validate his divine message, a unique gift for that era. For contemporary believers, Christ supernaturally gifts them for their specific roles within the church. Fourthly, Christ determines the precise place for service, as He guided Paul's ministry from Jerusalem to Illyricum, sovereignly positioning each believer in their current sphere of influence.

Salutation & Dedication

The Reasons for Romans - Part 1

Pastor Tom Pennington explains that Paul's letter to the Romans serves as a crucial, timeless reminder of the gospel for all believers. Though written to spiritually mature Christians, not for initial evangelism, its purpose is to continually deepen their understanding and application of fundamental truths. The sermon highlights a biblical "theology of remembering," asserting that the gospel's profound depths and practical implications for life, service, and conduct demand constant revisiting, not because believers forget, but because its richness is inexhaustible. Paul wrote under divine authority, by God's grace and apostolic calling, even describing his ministry in priestly terms�offering believing Gentiles as a sanctified sacrifice to God. The letter reminds us of the gospel's basic tenets: God as Creator, humanity as rebellious sinners, Jesus as the sole Savior, and the call to repent and believe. It also delves into its theological fullness, covering justification, security, sovereignty, and practical implications. Believers are urged to continuously engage with Romans and other gospel-centered resources to keep these essential truths at the forefront of their minds and lives.