Cumberland Trace Church of Christ (Formerly Lehman Ave Church of Christ)

"Words of Life" by Neal Pollard - Part 1

March 11, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

 

In this episode Neal and Hiram introduce this quarter’s two parallel tracks: a six-week look at 1 Peter (the “words of life”) and leadership lessons from 2 Samuel and Nehemiah, plus upcoming sessions on 1–3 John. The conversation explains how the pulpit and classroom teaching will be shared and what listeners should expect in the coming weeks.

The main portion of the episode focuses on Peter—his names and background (Simon/Cephas/Petros, son of Jonah), his trade as a fisherman, family life, temperament, education, and hometowns (Bethsaida and Capernaum). Neal traces Peter’s development from an impulsive, outspoken disciple who both succeeds and fails dramatically to a restored leader shaped by Jesus’ teaching and the Spirit.

Key Gospel episodes are highlighted to show Peter’s character and growth: Peter’s confession that Jesus has the “words of life,” walking on water, the miraculous catches of fish, cutting off Malchus’ ear, his threefold denial and restoration, presence at the Transfiguration, and his role in Pentecost and the early church. The host emphasizes Peter’s mix of bold action, humility, failure, and repentance as an encouragement to listeners who see themselves in him.

Attention is given to Peter’s leadership role in the early church (leading the selection of the twelfth apostle, preaching at Pentecost, miracles, confronting authorities, and missions to Jews and Gentiles), and to the likely historical context of his letters—writing against a backdrop of growing persecution (notably Nero’s Rome) and the need to encourage believers facing suffering.

The episode previews the purposes and major themes of Peter’s letters: 1 Peter as pastoral encouragement for suffering Christians (words like suffering, glory, grace, faith, and calling) and 2 Peter as a warning against false teachers and an exhortation to knowledge, godliness, and readiness for the Day of the Lord. The host connects Peter’s eyewitness experiences with Jesus to the authority and pastoral tone of his epistles and invites listeners to dive into the text beginning next Wednesday.

Duration 46:36

"What the Bible Teaches About Demons" by Hiram Kemp

March 15, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

In this episode, we trace the long cultural fascination with demon possession—from The Exorcist and modern Hollywood hits to early Christian testimony—and then dive into a clear, biblical crash course on demons: their reality, origins, operations, limitations, and ultimate defeat. The host examines historical perspectives (Justin Martyr, Tertullian), explores scriptural references across Deuteronomy, the Psalms, the Gospels, Acts, Paul’s epistles, and Revelation, and contrasts popular sensationalism with sober biblical teaching.

Topics covered include the reality of demons and how the Bible presents them, competing theories about their origin (including discussions of Genesis 6 and the Nephilim), the ways demons operate—through deception, possession/oppression, and idolatry—and Jesus’s distinctive authority over them during his earthly ministry. The episode reviews New Testament examples of demonic encounters, the apostles’ ministry of deliverance, and how demonic activity differs today (more mental and doctrinal influence than physical possession). It also outlines the limitations of demonic power, practical spiritual defenses (the armor of God, prayer, faith), and the Christian assurance of final victory over darkness.

The episode features scriptural analysis (Ephesians, Colossians, 1 Peter, 1 Timothy, James, Revelation) and pastoral application: how Christians should avoid extremes of skepticism or sensationalism, recognize false teachings and occult practices as demonic influence, and rely on Christ’s supremacy and the Holy Spirit’s power. Listeners can expect a balanced, Bible-centered perspective aimed at informing faith, strengthening spiritual discernment, and offering hope in Christ’s ultimate triumph over evil.

 

Handout:

What the Bible Teaches About Demons— Hiram Kemp 
 
1. The _________________ of _________________ (Mark 5:9) 
 
2. The _________________ of _________________ (Jude 6) 
 
3. The _________________ of ________________ (1 Timothy 4:1) 
 
4. ________________ during the ________________ of Jesus (Mark 1:27) 
 
5. The _______________ of _________________ (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9) 
 
6. The ________________ of __________________ today (Ephesians 6:11-13) 
 
7. The _________________ defeat of ________________ (1 John 3:8)

 

Duration 34:01

"How to Be Friends" by Hiram Kemp and Neal Pollard

March 15, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

In this episode we confront what the U.S. Surgeon General calls an epidemic—not of disease but of loneliness—and trace its devastating physical and spiritual effects. Using vivid contemporary examples (including a viral McDonald’s CEO moment) and classic cultural references, the speaker frames loneliness as a public-health crisis and explains why the Bible insists companionship is essential: "It is not good for man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18).

The conversation digs into Scripture to explain what true, biblical friendship looks like. Drawing on passages from Genesis, Leviticus, Matthew, John, Paul, James, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and many others, the episode lays out three core practices for Christian friendship: 1) Love one another sacrificially (love, not mere liking), 2) Lead one another toward Jesus (evangelism and spiritual accountability), and 3) Do life together (mutual sharpening, service, confession and rejoicing).

Listeners will hear memorable biblical examples—Jonathan and David, Jesus and his disciples, Paul and Onesimus, Abraham, Moses—and contemporary vignettes like Bride of Frankenstein’s blind hermit and Tad Lincoln’s access to the president to illustrate how friendship meets deep human needs. The speaker also cautions against two modern errors: withdrawing from others and indiscriminately accepting every relationship without biblical standards.

The episode then turns inward to our relationship with God, exploring what it means to be God’s friend. Practical steps are explained: be transparent with God, spend time with Him (the episode cites research on hours required to deepen relationships to underline the need for investment), and share God’s values—faith, obedience, truth, mercy and humility. Key texts cited include John 15, Hebrews, Psalms, and the lives of Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses.

Guests and people referenced in this episode include Neil Aubrey, Gregory Gwynn, Scotty Toodle, Jason Moon, Keith Kasarjan, Joe Ketchum, Mike Inge, Johnson Kale, Michael Height, Wes Autry, Mike Ripperton and Dean Murphy, along with numerous biblical figures and cultural examples woven throughout the message.

Key takeaways: loneliness is dangerous but biblical friendship is both a remedy and a calling; friendship must be rooted in love, aimed at drawing others to Christ, and expressed by doing life together; and the greatest friendship is with God—cultivated through honesty, time, and shared values. The episode closes with a pastoral challenge: put doctrine into practice, move beyond surface-level relationships, and respond to Jesus’ invitation to be friends with Him.

Handout:

How to Be Friends with Each Other— Hiram Kemp (part 1) 
 
1. ________________ each other (Leviticus 19:18) 
 
2. ________________ each other (John 1:40-41) 
 
3. ________________ Together (Proverbs 27:17) 
 
HOW TO BE FRIENDS WITH GOD— Neal Pollard (part 2) 
 
I. BE ____________________________ WITH HIM 
 
II. SPEND ______________ WITH _______________ 
 
III. HAVE _________________ __________________ 
 
   A. Think About What God __________________ 
 
Conclusion 
 
A. It Is ________ To Be ________ With God! 

 

Duration 39:09

"Common Sins and Struggles" by Joey Morgan - Part 2

March 15, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode of the class on "Common Sins and Struggles," Joey and class participants tackle the first struggle of the quarter: laziness. The session contrasts the world’s definition of laziness with the Bible’s view, explores spiritual versus physical laziness, and uses a variety of Scripture passages—Proverbs 6, 10, 12, 13, 26, 2 Peter 3, Colossians 3, and 1 John 1—to show why laziness is dangerous and how it undermines purpose and stewardship.

The conversation includes questions and comments from class members and personal examples—like a contractor’s need to stay hands-on and a failed gardening attempt—to illustrate how laziness stacks up and becomes contagious. Key scriptural themes are examined: the sluggard who is "wiser in his own eyes," the habit of making excuses, the ant’s example of preparation, and the parable of the talents. Joey emphasizes how laziness leads to physical and spiritual poverty, shame, loss of influence, indebtedness, and increased susceptibility to temptation.

The episode also offers practical steps for overcoming laziness: admit the problem, repent, change mindset from self-centeredness to service for God, seek accountability in the church family, reframe who and what you work for, and remember the eternal significance of faithful effort. Listeners are encouraged to replace excuses with small, consistent acts of service done "heartily as unto the Lord."

The class wraps up by reminding listeners that overcoming laziness is an ongoing process, rooted in humility and accountability, and previews the next session on anger. This episode is both a candid and biblically grounded call to wake from spiritual slumber and live with purpose.

 

Duration 41:56

"Deuteronomy" by Andy Wright Part 11

March 4, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

In this closing lecture of the Deuteronomy series, Andy explores Deuteronomy chapters 33–34: Moses’ final blessings of the tribes, his ascent of Mount Nebo, and his death. The episode compares Moses’ tribal blessings with Jacob’s earlier blessings in Genesis, tracks differences in order and emphasis, and highlights why Simeon is omitted while Levi is transformed from a curse into priestly service. Guests: none — this episode is a class lecture led by the instructor.

Topics covered include the sequence and content of each tribal blessing (Reuben, Judah, Levi, Benjamin, Joseph/Ephraim and Manasseh, Zebulun, Issachar, Gad, Dan, Naphtali, Asher), the literary and theological parallels with Jacob’s blessings, animal imagery and metaphors used for the tribes, Joseph’s extraordinary prosperity, Judah’s messianic associations, and archaeological and census evidence that helps explain Simeon’s diminishment and assimilation into Judah.

Key points and interpretations discussed: Moses’ blessings often echo Jacob but also reshape tribal destinies (Levi’s scattering becomes a sacred inheritance); Simeon’s omission illustrates consequences and God’s sovereignty; Benjamin and Joseph receive special protections and abundance; Moses obediently climbs Mount Nebo, views the Promised Land, and dies as a faithful servant; and Jude’s later reference to Michael disputing with the devil over Moses’ body is examined with plausible explanations (for example, preventing idolatry of his grave).

Listeners can expect close textual reading, comparative analysis between Genesis and Deuteronomy, theological reflection on leadership and legacy, and practical takeaways about obedience, hope, and God’s faithfulness to Israel’s future. The episode includes Q&A moments from the class and brief archaeological and New Testament references that illuminate the text’s historical and devotional dimensions.

Duration 33:52

"What the Bible Really Says About Angels" by Hiram Kemp

March 8, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

In this sermon-style episode Hiram walks listeners through a biblical study of angels, correcting common cultural myths and explaining what Scripture actually teaches. The message covers how popular culture has shaped false images of angels and contrasts that with biblical descriptions and roles found across both Old and New Testaments.

The episode is structured around six key teachings: (1) angels are God’s messengers and servants, (2) their work in the past (judgment, protection, and revelation), (3) their present ministry (rejoicing at repentance, escorting the departed, and ministering to believers), (4) their role in the future (accompanying Christ at his return and participating in final judgment), (5) angels in the life and identity of Jesus (with emphasis that Christ is superior to angels), and (6) practical lessons for Christians (the reality of a spiritual world, angels’ interest in our salvation, and the depth of God’s love for humanity).

Hiram invites listeners to respond to the gospel with repentance and faith. The teaching references many Scripture passages (Genesis, Psalms, Isaiah, Daniel, Luke, Matthew, Hebrews, Revelation and others) to support each point.

Key takeaways include: angels are created servants who worship God and do not deserve worship themselves; they are innumerable and powerful yet obedient to God’s will; they actively rejoice when people repent and minister to God’s people today; they will play a visible role at Christ’s return; and above all, God loved humanity enough to send his Son rather than angels to accomplish salvation.

Listeners can expect a thoughtful, Scripture-focused exploration aimed at deepening understanding and encouraging faith. The episode closes by extending an invitation to repent or recommit, reminding listeners that heaven rejoices when people turn to God.

 

Handout:

What the Bible Says About Angels (Hebrews 1:13-14)— Hiram Kemp 
 
1. Angels: God's ___________________ & ___________________ (Revelation 22:8-9) 
 
2. Work of ____________________ in the _____________________ (Psalm 103:20-21) 
 
3. Work of ____________________ in the ___________________ (Luke 15:10, Hebrews 1:14) 
 
4. Work of _________________ in the ____________________ (Matthew 16:27, 25:31-32) 
 
5. ______________________ in the life of _______________________ (Hebrews 1:5-6) 
 
6. What _____________________ Teach _______________________ (1 Peter 1:12)

 

Duration 33:42

"Listening To Jesus (2 Peter)" by Neal Pollard

March 8, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

This episode examines what it means to listen to Jesus amid the cacophony of modern voices, using the Transfiguration (Mark 9 / Matthew 17) and the Apostle Peter’s letter (2 Peter) as the lens. Neal reflects on the Mount of Transfiguration—Peter, James, and John’s front-row encounter with Jesus—and shows how that moment shaped Peter’s later warnings and instruction about truth, doctrine, and discipleship.

Topics covered include eyewitness testimony versus "cleverly devised myths," the contrast between faithful teachers and false teachers, and the fourfold impact of listening to Christ: shaping our message, influencing our character, determining our influence, and deciding our eternal destiny. The episode walks through specific biblical examples Peter uses (the fallen angels, the Flood/Noah, Sodom and Gomorrah, Balaam) and explains how prior judgment points to future judgment.

Practical connections are drawn to today’s culture of influencers, marketing, and media noise (with contemporary illustrations mentioned in the talk), and the episode emphasizes how Christians should test teaching by Scripture and by the fruit it produces. Neal urges listeners to guard their ears, pursue true knowledge of Jesus that transforms life, and respond in faith—repentance, baptism, and renewed attention to the Word—so they will be found holy and blameless when the Lord returns.

This is a sermon-style episode featuring the preacher’s exposition of 2 Peter and Mark 9, intended for listeners who want clear, biblically rooted guidance on discerning truth, cultivating godly character, and living under the authority of Christ’s voice.

 

Handout: 

LISTENING TO JESUS (2 Peter) — Neal Pollard 
 
According To 2 Peter.... 
 
I. LISTENING TO JESUS AFFECTS OUR ________________________________ 
 
  A. Is It A __________________-Moved Message? 
 
  B. Or Is It _______________ Devised ___________________? 
 
II. LISTENING TO JESUS INFLUENCES OUR __________________________ 
 
III. LISTENING TO JESUS IMPACTS OUR _____________________________ 
 
   A. True Teachers __________________ People __________________________ 
 
   B. False Teachers __________________ People _________________________ 
 
IV. LISTENING TO JESUS DETERMINES OUR ___________________________ 
 
Conclusion 
 
A. The Father Didn't Say _____________ Or ___________ Him, But, "_____________ To Him!" 

 

Duration 33:28

"Common Sins and Struggles" by Joey Morgan - Part 1

March 8, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode Joey Morgan introduces a new quarter focused on "Common Sins and Struggles." Joey explains the class format and invites attendees to share experiences so the group can encourage and help one another. He emphasizes that Scripture already addresses every struggle and that revisiting familiar truths can be lifesaving in different seasons.

The session explores why Christians gather (worship, duty, fellowship, spiritual nourishment, and mutual help) and lays out the class goals: better understanding of each struggle, practical hope and help, and cultivating the willingness to be a support to others. Joey stresses the importance of honesty about personal struggles — spiritual issues have eternal implications and withholding them prevents the church from providing prayer and practical help.

The first thematic topic is laziness. Joey contrasts the world’s dictionary definition (disliking physical or mental effort, loving idleness) with the Bible’s sharper view. Using Genesis 1:27–28 he reminds listeners that God created people with purpose and work in mind. He cites Proverbs 18:9 (the slothful is close to the destroyer) and Proverbs 26:13–14 to show how spiritual and habitual laziness wastes time, talents, and opportunities and is often defended with excuses.

Key points include the difference between occasional rest and habitual sloth, how laziness can be primarily selfish and immature, and why spiritual laziness is more serious than mere physical inactivity. Joey gives practical illustrations (the “accountant who never does taxes” and communal examples like sidewalk-shoveling) to show how shared responsibility lightens burdens, and how opting out through excuses harms the whole body of believers.

The talk challenges listeners to examine their own lives rather than point to others, to drop shame and share struggles with trusted brothers and sisters, and to remember that God’s commands are for our good. Joey encourages participation, prayer, and mutual accountability and notes that the next class will pick up where this introduction leaves off and begin addressing anger as the following topic.

This episode is both a warm introduction to a participatory study and a direct pastoral call to rediscover work, service, and fellowship in the life of the church, grounded in Genesis and Proverbs and aimed at turning excuses into faithful action.

 

Duration 44:04

"Deuteronomy" by Andy Wright Part 10

February 25, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

This episode is a lecture-style study of the Song of Moses found in Deuteronomy 32:1–43. Led by the course instructor in a "Topics in Deuteronomy" class, the session walks listeners through the immediate context before and after the song (the exhortation to "choose life," Joshua’s commissioning, the command to read the law, Moses’ prediction of Israel’s rebellion, and Moses’ final acts and death on Mount Nebo) and explains how the song functions as a covenant witness and theological microcosm of Israel’s history.

The discussion highlights the song’s major themes: the greatness and righteousness of God ("the Rock"), Israel’s corruption and forgetfulness after receiving blessing, the pattern of blessing leading to complacency and idolatry, and the ensuing divine judgment—hunger, pestilence, and invasion—tempered by God’s restraint so that enemies do not take credit for Israel’s downfall. The instructor emphasizes the poetic summary of Israel’s past and prophetic outlook toward future restoration that reaches forward to the Messiah.

Key textual points covered include the depiction of God’s character (justice, truth, and compassion), the image of Jeshurun growing fat and rebelling, God’s withdrawal of blessing and the catalogue of consequences, and the surprising final stanza calling Gentiles to rejoice with God’s people. The session also notes a Dead Sea Scroll variant that adds angels worshiping, a reading that connects to Hebrews 1:6 and underlines New Testament Christological readings of the passage.

The lecture draws practical applications for contemporary listeners: remember God’s works and origins, beware complacency in times of blessing, trust God’s justice and compassion, and rejoice in the wider scope of God’s salvation that opens to all nations. The instructor summarizes the Song of Moses as a compressed theology and history—God blesses, Israel rebels, God disciplines, God preserves and restores—and points forward to atonement fulfilled in Christ and the inclusion of the Gentiles.

Duration 30:20

"How to Achive Peace When You're in Pieces" by Neal Pollard

March 1, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

This episode presents a heartfelt sermon delivered in the wake of recent global events and the everyday pressures that overwhelm many of us. The speaker reflects on how sudden news and travel disruptions affected their congregation and uses that moment to connect contemporary stressors with timeless biblical wisdom.

The message surveys research from organizations like the American Psychological Association, Gallup, and the CDC to name the major drivers of anxiety today — economic pressures (job insecurity, rising costs, housing), mental health challenges, doomscrolling and information overload, work burnout, health concerns, and social and political polarization — and describes how these forces stack together to create constant, draining stress.

Turning to Scripture, the sermon lifts up Paul’s example and key passages (including 2 Corinthians 4 and Philippians 4:4–9) to offer a practical, faith-centered strategy for peace when life feels fragmented. The core prescription Paul gives is unpacked into a memorable sequence: rejoice in the Lord, cultivate a gentle spirit, refuse to be anxious, practice prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, and deliberately meditate on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely and praiseworthy.

Neal explains each step with concrete illustrations — how joy is rooted in Christ and Christian fellowship, how gentleness reflects Christlike humility even under provocation, and how the ‘‘war with worry’’ is fought through prayer, perspective, and prioritizing God’s kingdom. The sermon also warns against dwelling on bitterness, unworthy thoughts, and online outrage, and encourages viewers to replace those patterns with gratitude, service, and Christlike action.

Practical takeaways include modeling Christlike behavior, finding mentors and community for accountability, serving others, turning anxieties into prayers of thanksgiving, and putting faith into daily practice so the peace of God can guard hearts and minds. The message closes with an invitation to respond — whether that means renewing faith, seeking support from the congregation, or committing to apply Paul’s strategy in ordinary life.

Listeners can expect a blend of cultural diagnosis, biblical exposition, pastoral encouragement, and concrete steps to cultivate lasting peace amid personal and global turmoil.

 

Handout:

 HOW TO ACHIEVE PEACE WHEN YOU'RE IN PIECES  
(Philippians 4:4-9) 
Neal Pollard  
 
I. FIND _________________ IN EVERY ____________________ (4) 
 
II. CULTIVATE A ________________ _______________ (5) 
 
III. GO TO __________________ WITH _________________ (6-7) 
 
IV. ____________________ UNWORTHY ____________________ (8) 
 
V. PUT YOUR ____________________ INTO __________________ (9)

 

Duration 37:19