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

October 11, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

In this episode Hiram walks through what the book of Revelation — and the wider New Testament — teaches about the devil: who he is, how he operates, and what that means for Christians today. Early in the service Landon reads Revelation 12:9–11 to frame the discussion, and Hiram references passages from Genesis through Revelation (including Matthew, John, 2 Corinthians, Hebrews, Job, and Revelation 2, 3, 9, 12 and 20) to trace biblical teaching and common misconceptions.

Topics covered include: the devil’s biblical presence from Genesis to Revelation; popular misunderstandings (e.g., myths about hell, physical depictions, and equal opposition to God); the devil’s favorite tactic of using suffering to tempt and weed out believers; the five practical “commandments of suffering” (don’t blame God, don’t miss church, don’t neglect prayer, don’t abandon Scripture, and don’t give up); and the reality that Satan has followers — some obvious, some deceived into thinking they’re doing God’s work.

Other key points: the many names of Satan (dragon, serpent, deceiver, enemy) describe his varied works; his influence is real but temporary — “his time is short” — and God, in his wisdom, allows limited satanic power in a fallen world; yet Revelation also promises the devil’s ultimate and eternal destruction. The episode emphasizes the already-and-not-yet of Christian victory: believers overcome now by the blood of the Lamb, the word of testimony, and a willingness to deny self, and will share in final triumph when Christ returns.

Practical takeaways and encouragements include being alert to the devil’s devices (rush, pressure, false doctrine, appeals to conscience-violations or pride), holding fast in suffering, and living in confidence that gospel truth and Christ’s reign make Christians more than conquerors now and in eternity. The message closes with an invitation to respond to the gospel and practical steps for those seeking prayer or baptism.

 

Handout:

What the Book of Revelation Teaches Us About the Devil

Hiram Kemp

1. _______ is one of His Favorite ______ (Revelation 2:10)
2. _______ Has His _______ (Revelation 2:24, 3:9, 13:4)
3. His Many _______ Describe His Many _______ (Revelation 12:9-10,
12:17)
4. His _______ is _______ (Revelation 12:12)
5. He is _______ Allowed to _______ Power (Revelation 20:2-3, 20:7)
6. He Will Be _______ Destroyed (Revelation 20:10)
7. _______ Can _______ Him _______ (Revelation 12:11)

 

Duration 36:02

October 11, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

In this sermon at Cumberland Trace Church of Christ Hiram examines Matthew 16 and the New Testament meaning of the word ekklesia to explain what Jesus meant when he said, "I will build my church." Scripture was read by Chuck, and Mike closes the service by leading a congregational song.

The episode unpacks six key characteristics of the church Jesus builds: that it is owned by Christ (not a human institution), loving (commanded by Christ to love one another), spiritual (focused on inner transformation and sanctification), singular (one body with consistent doctrine and practice), eternal (part of God’s eternal purpose), and inviting (open to all with an urgent call to respond).

Key passages and references include Matthew 16, Acts 2, 1 Peter 2, John 13–17, Colossians 1:18, Ephesians, 1 Corinthians 3:11, Revelation 22:17, and practical appeals such as Acts 2:38 on baptism. Hiram contrasts cultural expectations of church with New Testament priorities, warns against treating the church as a personal project, and urges listeners to accept the universal invitation into God’s family.

Listeners can expect biblical explanation, pastoral application (what church membership and worship should look like), encouragement for genuine Christian love and unity, and a clear invitation to respond in faith and baptism. The sermon concludes with an invitation to pray, accept the gospel, and join the ongoing work of inviting others into the kingdom.

 

Handout:

The Church Jesus Built

Hiram Kemp
1. _______ by _______ (Acts 20:28)
2. _______ (John 13:34-35)
3. _______ (1 Peter 2:5-9)
4. _______ (Ephesians 1:20-23, 4:4)
5. _______ (Daniel 2:44; Hebrews 12:28)
6. _______ (Revelation 22:17)

 

Duration 29:27

October 11, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

 

This episode walks through a Bible class on 1 Corinthians 7:25–40 and the opening of 1 Corinthians 8. Hiram examines Paul’s practical judgments (not direct commands) about betrothed virgins, widows, marriage, and singleness in the context of a mysterious “present distress.” Listeners will hear why Paul urges people to “remain as they are” when possible, the spiritual advantages of singleness, responsibilities and divided concerns for married believers, and Paul’s preference that widows remain single though they may remarry "only in the Lord." Scriptural examples and cross-references include Matthew, Mark, Luke, Acts, Jeremiah, Ephesians, Colossians, and Romans.

In the second half the class turns to 1 Corinthians 8 and the thorny first-century issue of food offered to idols. The lecture contrasts knowledge and love, warns against pride that “puffs up,” and emphasizes that although certain practices may be biblically permissible, Christians must avoid causing others to stumble. Hiram highlights how some believers lack the same understanding about idols and therefore need compassion rather than debate. Key Scripture warnings (including Jesus’ strong language about causing a brother to sin) are used to underline the seriousness of scandal and spiritual harm.

Practical takeaways and how-to principles are given for modern decisions: (1) don’t do what Scripture forbids; (2) don’t violate your conscience; (3) don’t cause another Christian to stumble; (4) beware of ruining your witness with outsiders. The class stresses humility, unity in matters of judgment, and that the right exercise of convictions must be motivated by love. Attendees’ contributions help illustrate real-life applications and common questions.

Expect clear teaching, pastoral application, and helpful rules of thumb for weighing personal convictions versus communal care—especially when Scripture leaves room for Christian judgment rather than direct command.

 

Duration 44:02

October 7, 2026 - Wednesday Bible Class

In this sermon-style episode the Denver explores what it means to be "faithful unto death" and faithful throughout life by embracing the promises of God. Opening with a plea for consistent worship attendance and participation, the message emphasizes that regular assembling, study, and mutual encouragement are key to spiritual perseverance.

The talk traces God’s promise of a Redeemer from Genesis 3:15 through the New Testament fulfillment in Christ (citing Titus 1:2, 2 Timothy 1:9 and 1 Peter 1). It highlights the dependability of God’s character, the importance of actively trusting Scripture, and how past fulfillments guarantee future ones. Psalm 37 and 2 Peter 3 are used to reassure listeners that God’s timing and justice are sure—even when scoffers question the Lord’s return.

Practical application is drawn from Galatians 6 (sowing to the Spirit vs. the flesh, generosity, accountability, and steadfastness) and Matthew 25 (the parable of the talents), stressing stewardship of gifts and the promised welcome for those who have been faithful. The speaker also surveys final hope passages—2 Timothy 4, 1 Corinthians 15, Philippians, and 1 Thessalonians 4—teaching that death for the believer is a gain, that Christ is the firstfruits of the resurrection, and that the faithful will share in the coming new heavens and new earth.

Key points: consistent assembly and study build faithfulness; God’s promises are trustworthy and purposeful (often fulfilled "in the fullness of time"); believers are called to sow to the Spirit and serve generously; be vigilant against scoffers and false teaching; and live in readiness for the Lord’s return with confidence in the resurrection and the crown of righteousness. No external guests are featured—the episode is a concentrated sermon aimed at encouraging personal devotion, accountability, and hope in God’s eternal promises.

Duration 45:23

October 4, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode Neal studies 1 Corinthians 5–7 and walks listeners through a pivotal transition in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians. Starting with the problems reported from Chloe’s household—division, allegiance to personalities, and serious sexual immorality—Neal explains how Paul moves from urgent correction to answering specific questions introduced by the repeated formula “now concerning.”

The session covers three main blocks: the emergency corrective material in chapters 1–6 (notably the man living with his father’s wife and rampant fornication), Paul’s instructions about marriage and sexual duty in chapter 7 (verses 1–7), and the practical pastoral guidance that follows for different relationship situations. Key pastoral points include the duty of spouses to meet one another’s sexual needs, the prohibition against withholding sex except by mutual consent for brief seasons of prayer, and Paul’s expressed preference for singleness while recognizing marriage as the right option for those who can’t exercise self-control.

The teacher unpacks contentious issues about divorce and remarriage, directly engaging Jesus’ teaching (Matthew 19:3–9) and the exception for sexual immorality. He explains the meaning of terms like “leave” and the nature of ongoing adultery in Jesus’ wording, carefully distinguishing the Lord’s teaching from later interpretations such as the so-called “Pauline privilege.” The episode also addresses mixed-faith marriages—how an unbelieving spouse may be "sanctified" through the believing partner—and what to do if an unbelieving mate abandons the believer.

Practical ministry and pastoral care topics are highlighted throughout: premarital counseling, how cultural pressures and false teaching can distort sexual ethics (including the harmful idea that sex is inherently dirty), and the church’s role in correcting congregational problems biblically rather than “cafeteria-style.” Listeners should expect clear scriptural exposition, pastoral application for marriages and single believers, and blunt, pastoral warnings about common misreadings that have led people astray.

There are no outside guests; the episode is led by a teacher who interacts with congregants and answers live questions. By the end, listeners will have a concise overview of Paul’s marriage theology in 1 Corinthians 7, practical guidance for marital conflicts and mixed-faith unions, and a reinforced call to submit to the plain teaching of Scripture even when it’s difficult to accept.

 

Duration 42:32

October 4, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

In this sermon-style episode Hiram walks listeners through the biblical account of Balaam (Numbers 22–25) and draws practical spiritual lessons from the prophet’s failure. Using the famous scenes of Balak hiring Balaam, the talking donkey, the angel blocking the path, and the repeated blessings that defy Balak’s wishes, the message examines how a prophet who “knew better” nonetheless acted wrongly and led others into sin.

The episode connects Balaam’s story to modern examples of public figures who behaved immorally or deceptively despite knowing better (including references used in the talk: Sharon Moore, George Santos, Elizabeth Holmes, and Brian Williams) to illustrate the timeless danger of choosing personal gain over obedience. Hiram also highlights New Testament citations (2 Peter, Jude, Revelation) that label Balaam as a warning about false teaching and moral compromise.

Listeners are guided through six core lessons: 1) truth is truth no matter who speaks it; 2) God can only open your eyes if you are willing to see; 3) you never truly lose when you follow God; 4) no one can change God’s Word; 5) there is more than one way to disobey (doctrinal error or moral failure); and 6) you can’t make God change his mind. The talk unpacks each point with Scripture references (Numbers, Psalms, Proverbs, Isaiah, John, Romans, Philippians, and more) and contemporary application for personal faith and church life.

The episode closes by contrasting Balaam with Jesus—the greater prophet who rode a donkey into Jerusalem to bless and fulfill God’s Word—and offers a pastoral invitation: if you want to respond to the gospel, confess faith in Christ and be baptized to receive forgiveness and new life. Practical takeaways include cultivating humility to receive truth regardless of its source, guarding the heart against secret compromise, and trusting in the unshakable promises of God’s Word.

 

Duration 40:26

October 4, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

In this episode Neal examines the Transfiguration account found in Matthew 17 (also recorded in Mark and Luke), opening with a Scripture reading and exploring what the mountain moment reveals about Jesus’ identity and mission. The sermon traces how the Father’s voice— “This is my beloved Son; listen to him”—frames four practical lessons for Christian life: build on what you know, see Jesus as he truly is, allow God to correct mistaken views of Christ, and obey and listen to him.

Neal connects the Transfiguration to surrounding events in Matthew’s Gospel (Caesarea Philippi, Peter’s confession, and the subsequent healing of a demon-possessed boy), surveys key biblical references (John 1; Hebrews; 2 Peter; Deuteronomy; Malachi) and explains how glory is both revealed and implicated in Jesus’ earthly ministry. The sermon reflects on the apostles Peter, James, and John—their privileged perspective, continued need to grow, and later struggle to reconcile the glory on the mountain with the suffering of the cross.

Contemporary analogies — from the Northern Lights and solar cycles to images returned by the Hubble and James Webb telescopes — are used to illustrate God’s unveiled glory and our limited perspective. The message emphasizes Jesus’ dual nature (Son of Man and Son of God), the Father’s commissioning to “listen to him,” and the unfolding plan that culminates in Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection.

Practical applications and pastoral invitations close the episode: an encouragement to deepen spiritual growth, a call to see and submit to Christ as he truly is (not on our terms), and an invitation to repent, be baptized, or return to the shepherd. The episode includes roles from the service—Josh’s Scripture reading and Mike preparing to lead the congregation in song—and is aimed at both long-time believers and those considering faith.

 

Duration 35:17

September 30, 2026 - Wednesday Bible Class

 

This episode explores what it means to be faithful throughout life and faithful unto death, using Paul’s teachings and personal testimony to guide listeners. Denver examines biblical passages—1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 2 Timothy 2:3-5, 2:15; Romans 10:17; Proverbs 22:6; Colossians 3; Ephesians 6:1-4—and applies them to practical Christian living. Key themes include self-discipline, running the race according to God’s rules, studying Scripture to grow faith, the role of consistent assembly, and the importance of godly parenting. Through personal stories about his mother’s influence—her regular church attendance, practical rules (no tobacco, no swearing), compassion, kindness, humility, long-suffering, and dedication— Denver shows how a single faithful example can lead an entire family to the gospel. Expect reflections on childhood, marriage and unbelieving spouses, the promise of Revelation 2:10, and concrete characteristics Christians should cultivate to finish the race and receive the crown of life.

 

Duration 39:25

September 27, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

In this devotional episode Hiram reflects on God’s intimate, hands‑on care for his people, using the historical role of secretaries and the ministry of angels as a springboard. With readings by Dave—and with acknowledgements to Neal, Kya, Ashley, Linda and others who serve—the talk traces how Scripture shows God personally involved in our cleansing, healing, and ultimate restoration.

The sermon centers on three promises God will do himself: 1) He will purify and sanctify us (1 Thessalonians 5:23–24; Romans; 1 Peter), 2) He will put us back together after suffering and hardship (1 Peter 5:10; Joel 2:25; Isaiah), and 3) He will dwell with us and permanently remove suffering in the new creation (Revelation 21:1–5; Psalm 56:8). The speaker contrasts God’s direct action with the helpful but secondary role of angels and human servants, emphasizing that some tasks God refuses to delegate.

Key scriptural references and themes include Hebrews 1:14, Psalm 103, Romans 3 and 7, 1 Peter, Isaiah, and the closing vision of Revelation 21. Practical application is woven throughout: believers are encouraged to trust God’s work in sanctification, to rely on him for restoration in trials, and to look forward to a future where God himself wipes away every tear.

The episode closes with an invitation to respond—turning from sin, submitting to God’s grace, and if needed, receiving baptism (Acts 2:38) and the prayers of the church. Listeners can expect an encouraging, biblical message aimed at strengthening faith in God’s personal, redemptive involvement in our lives.

 

Duration 14:18

September 27, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

This episode presents a sermon-style exploration of the book of Proverbs, opening with a playful reminder that wisdom can appear in unlikely places (even Winnie the Pooh) and tracing how Solomon’s sayings offer practical guidance for everyday living. The speaker references biblical examples (Solomon, David, Jesus, Paul) and modern voices (Charles Duhigg, Elizabeth Elliot, Martin Shaw) to show how timeless wisdom applies now.

Participants include Hiram (sermon leader), Denver (scripture reader), Kason (song leader), and brief acknowledgements at the start. The episode blends scripture reading, pastoral teaching, and congregational application, and closes with an invitation to respond in faith and baptism.

Key takeaways are presented as seven practical principles: 1) Do the most important things first—put the fear of the Lord and spiritual priorities at the top; 2) Practice intentional neglect—learn to say no to secondary distractions so you can focus; 3) Be ruthless in eliminating sin—confess and forsake destructive habits quickly; 4) Be courageous enough to apologize—reconcile quickly and humbly; 5) Learn from past mistakes—study others’ failures and your own to avoid repeat sin; 6) Keep a quiet heart—cultivate a settled, prayerful trust in God rather than anxious activity; and 7) Let God have his way—trust God fully ("Godfidence") and surrender control of your life to him.

Listeners should expect a warm, scripturally grounded message that mixes vivid metaphors, practical habits, and an invitation to a deeper relationship with Christ, plus clear next steps for those considering baptism or wanting prayer and support from the congregation.

 

Handout:

How To Live Your Life Wisely

Hiram Kemp

1. Do the ____________ ___________ things __________ (Proverbs 1:7, 16:9)
2. Practice ________________ __________________ (Proverbs 4:25-27, 12:11)
3. Be ________ with ________ sin from your ________ (Proverbs 6:27-28, 28:13)
4. Be ___________________ enough to _______________ (Proverbs 15:1, 17:9)
5. ___________________ from ____________ mistakes (Proverbs 19:20, 26:11)
6. __________________ a ____________________ heart (Proverbs 4:23, 14:30)
7. Let ______________________ have his ________________ (Proverbs 3:5-6)

 

Duration 35:29