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

July 5, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

In this episode Neal delivers a sermon-style exploration of what the Bible—especially the book of James—teaches about the power and peril of the tongue. The conversation weaves personal anecdotes (including a childhood vacation memory and family snapshots), references to literal tongue conditions, and a broad survey of Scripture to show how our words reflect the heart.

Neal cites numerous passages—James 1–5 and especially James 3:1–18, plus references to Matthew, Romans, Galatians, Ephesians, 1 Peter, Titus, Colossians, and Ecclesiastes—to ground practical counsel in the Bible.

Key points covered: how the tongue can be like fire or poison; three practical ways James offers to tame speech—(1) cultivate meekness (gentleness and humility) in how you relate to enemies, the lost, and one another; (2) examine motives to root out bitter jealousy and selfish ambition that produce boasting and lies; and (3) pursue heavenly wisdom—qualities that are pure, peaceable, gentle, reasonable, merciful, impartial, and sincere—so that faith is evident in our words. Vivid analogies (water, floods, and the tongue as both life-giving and destructive) and pastoral applications to family life, church interactions, and evangelism make the teaching actionable.

The episode closes with pastoral invitations: the call to mutual confession and prayer (James 5:16), a reminder of the need for restoration and baptism, and an encouragement to apply these biblical remedies in daily speech. Listeners can expect Scripture readings, practical examples, pastoral counsel, and an invitation to respond in faith.

 

Handout: 

GETTING TO THE HEART OF OUR TONGUE PROBLEMS (James 3:13-18)

Neal Pollard

I. BE ____________________________________________ (13)
II. WATCH YOUR _______________________________ (14-16)
III. ___________________________ HEAVEN'S __________________________ (17)

 

Duration 29:24

July 5, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

In this episode a preacher draws practical lessons on Christian service from the largely overlooked Old Testament figure Barzillai, weaving his story (2 Samuel 17, 19; 1 Kings 2) together with New Testament teaching from Jesus (John 13; Matthew 20, Matthew’s sheep-and-goats parable; John 6; John 4; Matthew 11; Luke 9). The sermon explores how Barzillai’s example models compassion for the hungry, thirsty, weary, and fleeing, and connects that literal giving to meeting spiritual needs as disciples of Christ.

Listeners will hear short readings and participation from the congregation. Neal references personal ministry memories and older servants in the church as illustrations of faithful, long-term service, and discusses how service should continue into the golden years without spiritual retirement.

Key takeaways are presented as five practical principles: give what you have to meet physical and spiritual needs; give as long as you are able; give without expectation of earthly reward or recognition; use your resources and influence to give others opportunities to serve and grow; and respond when people need help. The sermon emphasizes humility, sacrificial discipleship, and the call to ‘‘give yourself’’ to Christ (Luke 9:23, Galatians 2:20).

The episode closes with an invitation to respond in faith—whether to commit to Christ, to rededicate one’s life, or to begin serving in practical ways—and an encouragement to move from receiving worship to active service in daily life.

 

Handout:

GIVING LIKE A GILEADITE — Neal Pollard

Introduction
A. Everything We Know About _______________________ Is _______________________
B. To Give Like Him...
I. GIVE WHAT YOU __________________ FOR THE __________________ (2 Sam. 17:27-29)
II. GIVE WHAT YOU __________ UNTIL YOU ___________ GIVE ________ (2 Sam. 19:32-35)
III. GIVE WITHOUT _______________________ OF ______________________ (2 Sam. 19:36)
IV. GIVE _______________________ AN ____________________________ (2 Sam. 19:37-39)
V. GIVE WHEN ______________________ NEED YOUR ___________________ (1 Kings 2:7)
Conclusion
A. His Name Means "Of ______________________________"
B. We Enter To ________________________, But We Leave To ________________________

 

Duration 26:25

July 5, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode we study Acts 8–9 through the lens of a congregation learning to juggle multiple challenges at once. Neal references Chris Young’s prior expository teaching and collaborates with Hiram as they walk listeners through the scattering of the Jerusalem church, the ministries of Philip in Samaria and to the Ethiopian eunuch, and the dramatic conversion of Saul of Tarsus. Biblical figures featured include Philip, Simon the sorcerer, the Ethiopian eunuch, Saul/Paul, Barnabas, and Dorcas (Tabitha).

Topics covered include the church’s response to persecution (Acts 8:1–4), the pattern of evangelism exemplified by Philip—"going up and opening his mouth," the role of signs and miracles to confirm the message, and how the Word plus the Holy Spirit accomplishes conversion in the absence of New Testament-era miraculous gifting. The episode examines how Philip’s message produced belief and baptism among Samaritans and the eunuch, and it highlights the consistent New Testament emphasis on baptism accompanying repentance and faith.

The conversion of Saul is treated as the central example of the challenge of change: changing religion, relationships, reputation, and life direction. The discussion follows Saul’s pre-conversion persecution of Christians, the divine encounter on the road to Damascus, Ananias’s role, and Barnabas’s pastoral advocacy—how the early church received, connected, trusted, and helped a radically changed convert integrate into fellowship and ministry.

Practical lessons and key points include: adversity should not lead to apostasy; put the emphasis on Scripture; humility in hearers makes teaching effective; joy accompanies obedience; follow-up and personal investment (the Barnabas model) are essential for new converts; old struggles can resurface and must be shepherded; and the church must care for loss (illustrated in the account of Dorcas) with compassion and expectation.

Listeners should expect a mixture of exegesis, pastoral application, exhortation for personal evangelism (a simple challenge to invite others to study the Bible), and reflections on how Acts models mission, community care, and endurance under pressure for the contemporary church.

 

Duration 44:00

July 1, 2026 - Wednesday Bible Class

In this episode we study Aquila (Acts 18) and his wife Priscilla, exploring their role alongside Paul and their influence across Corinth, Ephesus, and Rome. David builds on recent teaching about Apollos, references contributions from Dale, and promises a short, pre-recorded segment from Neil on-site in Ephesus. Using Acts 18 and related New Testament passages (1 Corinthians, Romans, 2 Timothy), the talk surveys biblical facts about Aquila and Priscilla and draws practical lessons for believers today.

Topics covered include: Aquila’s background as a Jew from Pontus who fled Rome under Claudius, his trade as a tentmaker and partnership with Priscilla, Paul’s year-and-a-half ministry in Corinth while working with them, and their decision to travel with Paul to Ephesus and remain there to strengthen the church. The episode highlights how their home became a meeting place for congregations and how their hospitality and industry supported ministry work.

Key moments discussed are Priscilla and Aquila’s tactful correction and mentoring of Apollos—listening first, taking him aside, and teaching the “way” more accurately—and the theological details implied by those episodes (the role of baptism, belief in Jesus, the work of the Holy Spirit, and entrance into the kingdom of God). The speaker also draws attention to scriptural references showing the couple’s ongoing influence: house church leadership, greetings in Paul’s letters, and Paul’s gratitude for their service and willingness to risk for his life.

Takeaway lessons emphasize partnership in marriage and ministry, being open to discussing faith at work, the courage to both go and stay for the sake of the gospel, the importance of tactful and knowledgeable correction, and the power of hospitality and local leadership. The episode closes with practical reflections for contemporary Christians and a promised visual clip from Ephesus to bring the biblical scenes to life.

 

Duration 42:44

June 28, 2026 - Sunday PM Service

 

Join Cumberland Trace’s monthly Q&A with Hiram and Neil as they answer submitted scripture questions from listeners. This episode walks through a wide range of biblical topics with pastoral clarity and practical application, focusing on what the Bible teaches and how it matters for Christians today.

They begin with an extended look at 1 Corinthians 12–14, explaining the threefold treatment of spiritual gifts: the diversity and unity of gifts in chapter 12, the supremacy of love in chapter 13, and the priority of edification and orderly worship (prophecy over tongues) in chapter 14. The hosts explain why the miraculous gifts were limited to the first-century situation (1 Cor. 13:10; apostolic laying on of hands; Hebrews 2) and draw practical takeaways: use your God-given abilities to build the church, not to exalt yourself; worship must be decent and in order; pursue love above spectacular signs.

Next they address Acts 2:38 and the “gift of the Holy Spirit,” arguing that the promise is the indwelling Spirit given to all who repent and are baptized. They cite New Testament passages (Romans 8; 1 Corinthians; Ephesians) to show the Spirit as God’s seal, down payment, inner strength, and divine helper who intercedes for believers.

The conversation turns to God’s omniscience and human freedom: though God knows the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46; Psalm 139), biblical teaching affirms real moral choice. Predestination language (Eph. 1; Rom. 8) coexists with repeated calls to choose, repent, and live faithfully; God’s foreknowledge is presented as comfort and assurance, not a reason for fatalism.

On 2 Thessalonians 2:1–12 they unpack the “man of lawlessness,” offering both historical and broader interpretive options (first-century contexts including A.D. 70 and the long-term picture of apostasy). The key pastoral point: whether specific identifications vary, the Bible warns about delusion for those who refuse the truth, so Christians must love truth, resist easy or attractive falsehoods, and avoid obsessive end-times speculation.

They tackle whether Satan can hear our thoughts and prayers with nuance: audible prayers and visible behavior can be observed by demonic forces, but only God searches and knows hearts and hidden thoughts. Satan can tempt and suggest but cannot read minds or nullify God’s sovereign purposes; believers are encouraged to pray with confidence according to God’s will (1 John 5; Job; 1 Cor. 2).

Hard Old Testament questions are addressed—how to reconcile Proverbs’ condemnation of shedding innocent blood with God’s command against the Amalekites (1 Sam. 15) and the teaching of Ezekiel 18. The hosts distinguish human sin from divine, judicial acts: some biblical commands are divine judgments and “devoted” destruction in the context of covenant history; consequences can fall across generations without implying imputed eternal guilt for children.

They also discuss Christology (eternal sonship): Jesus is eternally divine and co-equal with the Father, but the title “Son” functions as the messianic/relational designation applied in the incarnation. Scriptural references (John 1; Colossians 1; Hebrews 1; Galatians 4) are used to balance Jesus’ eternality and the historical reality of the Son sent in the fullness of time.

On parenting and spiritual accountability they explain that parents bear primary responsibility for training and spiritual oversight while children are under their roof. When children become adults they become free moral agents; parents continue to influence by example and prayer but do not remain spiritually accountable in the same way once children leave the household.

Finally, the hosts consider the “angel of the Lord” in the Old Testament, noting that the phrase sometimes denotes a unique theophanic figure who speaks and acts as God (examples include the burning bush, Jacob’s wrestling, and other appearances). They present the view that many such appearances function as pre-incarnate manifestations of Christ distinct from ordinary angels, while reminding listeners that Hebrews affirms that God’s final and full revelation comes in the Son.

Expect careful exegesis, historical perspective, and application: how the text shaped first-century practice, why certain gifts and signs were temporary, how divine sovereignty and human responsibility work together, and what believers should do—love truth, serve the church, live in order, and hold fast to Jesus. Hosts Hiram and Neil close by encouraging listeners to respond to the gospel if needed, to pursue godliness, and to continue wrestling honestly with difficult biblical questions.

 

Duration 51:24

June 28, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

In this sermon-style episode Hiram walks through Mark 14–15 and the life of Barabbas to show how the Gospel confronts each listener personally. Using the betrayal, Jewish trials (Annas, Caiaphas), and Jesus’ appearance before Pilate as the backdrop, the sermon explains why the crowd demanded Barabbas instead of Jesus and how envy and deception drove that choice.

Hiram outlines three clear parallels between Barabbas and every person: (1) we are guilty and condemned (drawing on Mark, Matthew, Luke, John, Psalm 51, Romans), (2) the world lies to us and deceives us about what will truly satisfy (referencing Genesis, 1 John, Hebrews, and cultural examples), and (3) Jesus steps into our place—taking the punishment we deserve so we might be offered forgiveness and new life (explained with Luke 23, 2 Corinthians, Isaiah 53, and other texts).

The episode surveys many biblical cross-references (Isaiah, Psalms, Romans, Galatians, Hebrews, John, 1 Peter) and contemporary illustrations—like Project Innocence and modern cultural temptations—to show the timelessness of the message. The preacher emphasizes self-examination, the danger of rationalizing sin, and the need to see ourselves in Barabbas rather than only in the crowd condemning him.

Key takeaways: honest confession of guilt, awareness of worldly deception, and the central Christian claim that Jesus took our place on the cross. The episode closes with a pastoral invitation to respond—repentance, confession of Christ, baptism, and pastoral support for those struggling with sin. Guests: none.

 

Duration 28:57

June 28, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

This episode is a sermon-style study through Acts chapters 6–8, centering on Acts 6:1–7 and tracing a recurring pattern in the early church: success invites new problems, and God’s people must respond biblically. Neal walks the congregation through the first of four challenges in these chapters, examines subsequent disputes that arise as the gospel moves outward, and previews Stephen’s pivotal defense in Acts 7.

Topics covered include the practical complaint of the Hellenist widows being neglected, the apostles’ wise response of discernment and delegation, and the appointment of seven servants—Stephen, Philip, Procurus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicholas (a proselyte of Antioch)—who are prayed for and commissioned. The sermon highlights the apostles’ priority to devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word, the laying on of hands as dedication (and possibly the impartation of gifting in the first-century context), and the resulting fruit: continued numerical growth and many priests turning to faith.

The episode then follows the ripple effects of that growth: Stephen’s ministry among the Greek-speaking Jews, the disputes and false witnesses stirred up against him, and the challenge of addressing angry, unreceptive listeners. The speaker traces Stephen’s strategy in Acts 7—seeking connection, emphasizing God and his work, appealing to Israel’s history, and finally confronting stubbornness and sin—and explains the pattern of God raising deliverers, people rejecting them, and God vindicating them.

Practical applications are drawn for today’s churches and leaders: how to handle internal complaints biblically, the value of delegation and qualified servants (parallels to deacons), the importance of elders/eldership staying focused on prayer and the Word, and principles for speaking truth to difficult or angry listeners (Matthew 18, Galatians 6, Ephesians 4). The episode underscores that faithful, God-centered responses to problems lead to unity, confidence in leadership, and further growth.

Format and guests: this episode is a single-message sermon delivered by the congregation’s teacher (no outside guests). Key takeaways include the governance model shown in Acts 6, the spiritual qualifications and heart behind servant ministry, the pastoral tactics Stephen uses when facing opposition, and the encouraging outcome that faithful obedience deepens the church’s witness and produces growth.

 

Duration 43:58

June 24, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

This episode is a classroom-style exploration of Barnabas, the New Testament figure known as the "son of encouragement." Recorded as part of a summer teaching series, the speaker walks listeners through key passages in Acts (chapters 4, 9, 11, 13, and 15) to trace Barnabas’ life, ministry, and influence on the early church.

Topics covered include Barnabas’ background (Joseph the Levite from Cyprus), his generosity in selling land to support believers, and his defining role encouraging and strengthening the church at Antioch. The episode looks closely at how Barnabas bridged the gap between the church and Saul (Paul), advocated for second chances (notably with John Mark), and helped develop emerging leaders—demonstrating humility, courage, and sacrificial support.

Listeners will hear Scripture readings and practical illustrations, including personal anecdotes from the class (camp mailboxes of encouragement, Devo leadership) and contemporary analogies (nicknames and team roles) to highlight how encouragement functions as ministry. The class discusses why churches struggle to accept changed people, how encouragers see potential rather than past failures, and the risks and sacrifices involved in standing with the rejected.

Contributors and voices in the discussion include the class leader and responses from members. The episode emphasizes five practical lessons: encouragement changes lives; godly people look beyond a person’s past; great leaders develop other leaders; encouragers also need courage; and godly people help restore failures.

Expect a study grounded in Acts with clear, applicable takeaways for church life—how to give hope, mentor others, offer second chances, and use generosity and courage to advance spiritual growth in your community.

 

Duration 37:50

June 21, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

This episode is a sermon on countering selfishness and learning to live for Jesus rather than for ourselves. Hiram opens with memorable animal examples—domestic cats and cuckoo birds as illustrations of natural, survival-driven self-interest, contrasted with worker bees as models of sacrificial service—and uses those images to introduce a biblical call to self-denial and Christian service. This is a pastor-led message rooted in Scripture and practical application.

Key topics include: the biblical meaning of denying oneself (Mark 8:34; Luke 9:24), how Christianity must be more than a personal accessory or status, and the congregation’s annual theme of "shining our light through Christian service" (Mark 10:42–45). The speaker highlights scriptural anchors throughout (Hebrews 12:2; John 1:29; 2 Corinthians 4:6; Philippians 2; Matthew 25:31–40; Jeremiah 45:5; 1 John 3:16) to show why looking to Christ—not to ourselves—is the first step toward faithful living.

The sermon lays out three practical steps for living for Jesus: (1) look at Jesus more than you look at yourself—exchange self-focused gaze for Christ-focused devotion; (2) take a genuine interest in other people—move from self-absorption to investing in others’ spiritual and practical needs; and (3) serve the least of these—follow Christ’s example by offering sacrificial help to the hungry, hurting, and marginalized. Anecdotes and Scripture are used to contrast selfish instincts with Christlike service, and to encourage a community shaped by sacrificial love.

The message closes with an invitation to respond—whether to begin following Christ, obey the gospel, or receive prayer—and with a song of encouragement as people stand. Hiram emphasizes that Jesus has already poured out his life for us and that our Christian life is meant to be poured out for others.

Devotional thought: This week, practice trading one self-focused thought each day for ten thoughts of Christ—look to his life and grace, ask how you can serve one person well, and let small acts of sacrificial love become your way of shining God’s light in a world that so often chooses itself.

 

Duration 9:08

June 21, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

This episode is a sermon-style exploration of how modern attention-harvesting technologies and longstanding spiritual forces compete for control of our minds. Neal references the Center for Humane Technology and former tech pioneers who warned that apps and notifications erode focus, weaken relationships, and damage mental health — with money often driving the design choices behind these systems. Pop-culture examples (like Aladdin’s Jafar) and a quip from Rick Neuheisel help illustrate the cultural landscape.

Framed through New Testament teaching, the message surveys scriptural warnings about the schemes that seek to harden, blind, capture, and lead minds astray (2 Corinthians), and shows how the gospel provides the counterbalance. Key biblical passages used include 1 Corinthians 15 (the resurrection and waking to righteousness), Romans 12:2 (renewing the mind), Colossians 3:1 (setting affections on things above), 1 Peter 1:13 (preparing the mind), and multiple Pauline and Petrine references that call listeners to vigilance, transformation, and remembrance.

The episode lays out practical, faith-centered steps to "master your mind": wake up from spiritual sleep, allow the gospel to renew your thinking, assume the best of others to resist division, elevate your eternal perspective over immediate distractions, prepare your mind for action, and keep remembering what truly matters. The speaker emphasizes both the personal inner work of reshaping daily thoughts and the communal call to be of one mind and to love one another.

There are no external guests; the teaching is delivered by the episode’s speaker (a sermon message). Listeners can expect theological reflection, Scripture teaching, cultural diagnosis of technology’s harms, practical spiritual disciplines, and a closing invitation to respond in obedience to Christ (repentance, faith, baptism, and walking in newness of life).

 

Duration 29:44