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

"Equipping Ourselves" by Neal Pollard

April 19, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

In this episode Neal opens with a striking historical anecdote about the catastrophic 1889 Johnstown flood to illustrate the consequences of poor preparation, then pivots to Jesus’ teaching about building life on a solid foundation. Using Luke, Matthew, and other New Testament passages, the talk frames spiritual preparation as an individual responsibility and a communal calling and introduces the congregation’s annual Equip Workshop as a concentrated, practical opportunity for growth.

The description covers the origins and strategic vision behind the Equip Workshop, rooted in Ephesians 4:11–16, and explains how the event was born from pandemic-era planning to strengthen the local church’s ability to teach, serve, and bear fruit. Listeners learn that the workshop offers 26 hours of focused instruction (Thursday night through Sunday), multiple tracks, and discussion forums designed to equip attendees for faithful living, leadership, and service.

Guests and leaders highlighted include keynote and session speakers such as Steve Higginbotham, Andy Baker (leading worship), Dan Winkler, Mike Vestal, John Moore, Glenn Hitchcock, and many others—along with local coordinators like Mike Thomas, Kelly Nix, Alicia Pennington, and Caitlin King who help organize volunteer opportunities. The episode emphasizes a diversity of presenters addressing topics for all life stages, from Genesis and questions about creation and evidence for faith to workshops on spiritual leadership, women’s issues, youth challenges, marriage, and family life.

Neal walks listeners through biblical reasons for equipping—showing that scripture is simple, knowable, holy, powerful, God-breathed, profitable, and complete—and ties those attributes to practical outcomes: becoming more like Christ, building up the body, and being prepared to do every good work (2 Timothy 3 and Hebrews references). The episode stresses that personal growth requires both individual diligence and mutual encouragement through congregational life and events like the workshop.

Practical details and expectations for the Equip Workshop are provided: keynote evenings, all-day Friday and Saturday tracks, opportunities to serve as greeters and volunteers, hospitality toward visitors traveling from many states, and ways to transform learning into action. The episode frames the workshop not as an isolated program but as part of a wider strategy—television ministry, camps, and other initiatives—aimed at spiritual strengthening and outreach.

The talk closes with pastoral invitations: to consider personal obedience to the gospel, to seek prayer or pastoral care, and to participate in the Equip Workshop as a concentrated way to be shaped by scripture and to serve others. The story of a recent baptism is offered as an encouragement for listeners who may be moved to respond, and the episode ends with a call to gather, sing, learn, and put faith into practice.

Hanout:

 EQUIPPING OURSELVES 
Neal Pollard 
I. Equipping Yourself Makes You ________ Your __________ (Luke 6:40) 
 
II. Equipping Yourself Helps You ______ And ______ Up The ______ Of ______ 
(Ephesians 4:11-16) 
 
III. Equipping Yourself Helps You Do _________ Good ________ (2 Timothy 3:16-17) 
 
IV. Equipping Yourself Helps You Do His _______ And Be ________ In His Sight 
(Hebrews 13:21) 

 

Duration 30:26

"Common Sins and Struggles" by Joey Morgan - Part 7

April 19, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode from a "common sins and struggles" class, Joey leads an interactive discussion about gossip — its definition, why it’s sinful, and how it harms everyone involved. Using Scripture as the guide, the class examines gossip alongside related sins such as slander, being a busybody, and careless speech, and emphasizes how these practices contradict Jesus’ commands to love one another.

Key biblical texts cited include Matthew 22 and John 13 on loving others, Ephesians 4:29–31 on unwholesome words, James 4:11–12 on judging our neighbor, 1 Peter 2:1–2 on putting away slander, numerous Proverbs about restraint, and James 3:5–6’s image of the tongue as a small fire that can ignite a forest. The instructor also uses real-world illustrations (tabloids, workplace hearsay, and the ‘‘Johnny Depp’’ hearsay example) and classroom contributions from participants to show how gossip spreads and why it’s so hard to undo.

The episode unpacks: a practical definition of gossip (sharing negative information about others without permission, knowledge, or full facts); the three groups affected (the gossiper, the hearers, and the person gossiped about); and the spiritual and relational damage gossip causes. It highlights common ways gossip is disguised—wrapped in prayer requests, framed as seeking advice, or softened by phrases like "bless your heart"—and warns against putting ourselves in the judge’s seat that belongs to God.

Practical solutions and takeaways include: learn to hold your tongue and restrain unnecessary words; go to the person involved rather than spreading the story; remove yourself from gossiping conversations; refuse to repeat anything you wouldn’t sign your name to; apologize and make amends when you slip; avoid demanding intimate details when someone asks for prayer; and always ask before speaking, "What good will this do?" The class closes by urging listeners to practice different speech habits that edify, give grace, and reflect fervent love for one another.

Next session preview: the instructor will return to discuss being overly critical and how that vice connects to the same struggles of the tongue.

Duration 41:40

"Why it Makes Sense to Believe in God" by Hiram Kemp

April 12, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

In this episode Hiram addresses a growing number of Americans who claim no religious affiliation and offers practical tools Christians can use to talk with skeptics. Framing the conversation around both scripture and observable reality, the message aims to equip listeners to "meet people on their terms" — arguing that belief in God is not just a faith claim but is supported by everyday evidence.

The episode lays out eight core reasons why belief in God makes sense: design (the finely tuned, Goldilocks conditions of the universe and the human body), mathematics (the universal and non-material reality of numerical truth), consciousness (human self-awareness and reason), morality and outrage (a universal moral law written on the human heart), beauty (aesthetic order that points to a Creator), hope (human longings for redemption), love (agape as a transcendent reality), and story/narrative (humans as story-telling beings whose deepest longings mirror the Bible’s grand narrative).

Scripture is woven throughout the talk (Genesis, Romans, Psalms, John, Isaiah and others) and the speaker emphasizes that while these arguments are grounded in the Bible, many of them are also accessible to non-believers without opening a text. The episode includes a contemporary example — astronaut Victor Glover — who describes seeing God’s handiwork from space and how that perspective reinforced his faith.

Historical and cultural illustrations are used to sharpen the moral argument (for example, the Nuremberg trials) and literary references such as J.R.R. Tolkien are invoked to explain why humans are wired for story. Practical application is stressed: the goal is not merely intellectual assent but to point people to Jesus Christ, his death and resurrection, and the life-change that follows — including baptism and public commitment.

The episode closes with an encouragement to notice the signposts of God in everyday life — from sunsets and number systems to conscience and longing — a musical selection by Dale, and an invitation for listeners to respond to heaven’s call or request pastoral help in taking the next step.

 

Handout: 

 Why it Makes Sense to Believe in God — Hiram Kemp 
1. _______________________________ (Romans 1:20) 
 
2. ________________________________ (Job 38:4-5) 
 
3. ________________________________ (Genesis 1:26-27) 
 
4. ________________________ & ______________________ (Romans 2:14-15) 
 
5. ________________________________ (Ecclesiastes 3:11) 
 
6. ________________________________ (Romans 8:24) 
 
7. ________________________________ (1 John 4:7-8) 
 
8. ________________________________ (Acts 17:26-28)

 

Duration 34:46

"Words of Life" by Chris Young - Part 6

April 15, 2026 - Wednesday Bible Class

In this episode Chris finishes a study of 1 Peter, covering the end of chapter 4 and all of chapter 5. The class walks listeners through Peter’s counsel to first‑century Christians facing organized persecution and offers lessons that apply to believers today.

Topics include the reality of “fiery trials,” rejoicing in partaking of Christ’s sufferings, and the distinction between suffering for righteousness versus suffering for wrongdoing (murder, theft, gossip). Key biblical cross‑references used to illuminate these themes are John 15, 2 Thessalonians 1, Romans 8, and Psalm passages that encourage trusting God and casting cares on Him.

The second half of the lesson turns to chapter 5: a practical job description for elders (shepherding, protecting, feeding, and leading by example), the congregation’s responsibilities toward elders (honor, submission, and avoiding needless grief), and scriptural backing from Acts, 1 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, and Hebrews. The speaker stresses elders must serve willingly and not for dishonest gain, and the flock must esteem and pray for them.

Pastoral application centers on humility and vigilance: humble yourselves under God’s mighty hand, cast your anxieties on Him, be sober and watchful because the devil prowls like a roaring lion, and resist compromise under pressure. The closing emphasis: suffering is temporary and refines faith, while eternal glory awaits—hope is the book’s prevailing word.

The episode also briefly touches on historical and interpretive notes (Silvanus and Mark mentioned in Peter’s closing greetings, and a short discussion on whether “Babylon” refers symbolically to Rome). Listeners can expect doctrinal explanation, practical counseling for persecution and anxiety, and concrete guidance for church leadership and mutual submission.

 

Duration 44:25

"On the Mountain" by Hiram Kemp

April 12, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

This episode is a sermon-style exploration of Matthew 17 (the Mount of Transfiguration) that uses a memorable vision-clinic analogy to show how Scripture reveals Jesus as he truly is. Hiram traces a pattern across Matthew and the Old Testament: God often calls people "up the mountain" to give clearer spiritual sight. The message weaves narrative, biblical exposition, and practical application.

Topics covered include the role of mountaintop experiences in Scripture, the Mount of Transfiguration itself, and five central lessons the disciples received there: a higher calling, the glorious appearing of Christ, the danger of misplacing glory, the imperative to hear and obey Jesus, and the comfort believers can enjoy. The sermon references numerous passages (Matthew 4–28, Exodus, Deuteronomy, Isaiah, Psalms, Philippians, 2 Peter, 2 Corinthians, Romans, Hebrews, and others) and illustrations (including the Hudson River airplane landing) to clarify spiritual altitude and transformation.

There are no external guests — this is a focused teaching delivered by the sermon speaker — and it includes pastoral invitations for listeners: unbelievers are called to believe in Jesus and be baptized, while believers are urged to answer God’s upward call, stop spiritual coasting, and respond to the written and spoken Word by listening and obeying. The message concludes with a reminder that the transfiguration points forward to the believer’s future glorification and that seeing Jesus clearly brings comfort, courage, and renewed commitment.

 

Handout: 

On the Mountain — Hiram Kemp 
(Matthew 17:1-8) 
1. _______________________ Calling (Matthew 17:1) 
 
2. A _______________________ Appearing (Matthew 17:2) 
 
3. _________________________ Glory (Matthew 17:3-4) 
 
4. A ________________ to __________________ & _______________ (Matthew 17:5) 
 
5. _________________________ to _______________________ (Matthew 17:6-8) 

 

Duration 33:26

"Common Sins and Struggles" by Joey Morgan - Part 6

April 12, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode Joey leads a candid study on common sins and struggles around speech—focusing primarily on swearing (both taking oaths and using profane language) and previewing gossip for the next session. Drawing on Scripture (Genesis, Deuteronomy, Matthew, Ephesians, James, Psalms, and other passages), the talk contrasts biblical oaths with casual swearing, explains how cultural standards shape what is considered profane, and emphasizes why Christians must guard their words.

Key teachings include Jesus’ warning that the mouth reveals the heart and that every careless word will be accounted for, Paul’s charge to speak only what edifies, and James’s extended warning about the tongue as a small but destructive instrument. Joey uses biblical examples (Abimelech and Abraham; Peter’s denial) to show how words reflect inner condition and can either ruin or strengthen witness and influence.

Practical applications offered include learning self-control, replacing destructive vocabulary and habits, distancing oneself from corrupting company, submitting anger to Godly channels (prayer, Scripture memory, constructive outlets), and intentionally using speech to build others up. The episode closes by urging listeners to ‘taste’ their words before they speak, to seek God’s help in guarding the lips (Psalm 141:3), and to prepare for next Sunday’s deeper look at gossip—its causes, effects, and remedies.

 

Duration 40:32

"Words of Life" by Neal Pollard - Part 5

April 8, 2026 - Wednesday Bible Class

In this episode we continue our Words of Life series with a deep, practical walk through 1 Peter chapter 4. Neal situates the epistle in its first-century context—believers scattered and suffering—and explains how their living hope in the resurrection of Christ helps them endure trials. Drawing connections to previous chapters, the message highlights the five imperative themes that guide Christian conduct (hope, holiness, sobriety, brotherly love, and spiritual growth) and shows how they apply within the storms of life.

The heart of the episode examines Peter’s call to “arm yourselves” with Christ’s mindset, focusing on two major themes in chapter 4: the flesh (and the specific sins associated with living according to the flesh) and preparing for judgment. The speaker unpacks the terms Peter uses—sensuality, passions/lusts, drunkenness and revelry, and lawless idolatry—and explains how living differently from the world can lead to opposition and suffering. Yet the sermon reassures listeners that the story does not end in the present storm because of Christ’s resurrection, authority, and promised glory.

The episode also presents practical, positive resources for believers facing trials: sober-minded prayer, fervent brotherly love that forgives and covers sins, and hospitality served without grumbling. Other pastoral reflections include the challenge of maintaining prayer discipline, the shaping influence of societal freedoms on modern believers, and how the Christian life may bring both hardship and hope. This message encourages listeners to live distinctly, arm themselves with Christlike purpose, and support one another toward the ultimate victory and glory that await.

 

Duration 40:32

"Lessons Learned from Nigeria" by Hiram Kemp

April 5, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

In this episode Hiram recounts a March 23–31 mission trip to southern Nigeria with a team of ten Americans — including Brian and Sondra Davis of World Bible School, Daniel Gaines, Keefka Sargent, Bill Pennell, Chad Wagner (trip leader), Brittany, and others — to teach, encourage, and serve alongside Nigerian Christians. The group worked with Western Nigeria Christian College (WNCC) and Nigerian Christian Bible College (NCBC), participated in the Great Workshop (about 450 preachers) whose theme emphasized making mission and evangelism a priority, and taught across primary schools, Bible colleges, and congregations such as the Two Towns Church of Christ.

The episode highlights ministry moments: a visit to a prison where 12 young men were baptized, extended jail ministries started by former inmates like Vincent, training sessions for seasoned and newly trained preachers, and hands-on use of World Bible School extension programs. The team taught breakout sessions on mobilizing youth, preaching and biblical fidelity, and a women’s session on how to flourish as a Christian woman in a busy world. The colleges discussed are government-accredited and house both preaching schools and vocational training so ministers can support themselves while serving.

Cultural vignettes and travel details bring the trip to life — local hospitality (staying in members’ homes, a legacy guestbook), lively breakfasts, local cuisine experiments, aggressive traffic and horn-driven driving, and the warmth and constant smiles of Nigerian Christians. Hiram also describes translating challenges in Uyo, the presence of armed security at the workshop due to regional risks, and the national religious landscape that includes Pentecostalism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and other faiths.

Through the trip Hiram draws seven lessons (an acrostic from the name NIGERIA): you’re Never alone; Infectious joy; the Gospel works everywhere; Eagerness for the Word; Radical hospitality; Immediate obedience; and Acts of faith. These lessons are illustrated with personal stories — such as Vincent’s jail baptisms, a breakout session that sparked immediate repentance and commitments to involve youth, and the story of American donor-turned-missionary Bill Pennell — to show how the gospel changes lives and sustains long-term ministry.

The episode balances pastoral reflection with practical takeaways: how training and extension schools equip leaders, why hospitality and vocational training matter for sustainable ministry, and how immediate obedience and contagious joy drive growth even amid poverty or persecution. It closes with an invitation consistent with the New Testament call to repent, confess, and be baptized, and a reminder that the same gospel heard in Nigeria is still powerful and operative everywhere.

 

Duration 38:00

"How To Build Your Character" by Neal Pollard

April 5, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

In this episode Neal walks through Hebrews chapter 13 and shows how the central truth that "Jesus is better" should shape everyday character. Beginning with a striking true-life anecdote about an 18-year-old angler whose honesty cost him a state record but won him a place in the "hall of fame of character," the speaker uses that story to launch into a broader sermon on conscience and integrity.

The sermon explores practical imperatives from Hebrews 13: loving other believers through hospitality and compassion; honoring marriage and pursuing sexual purity; cultivating contentment and resisting the love of money; submitting to and encouraging godly leaders; and rejecting empty or strange teachings that do not benefit the soul.

Key points include concrete definitions of brotherly love (demonstrable, discerning, and enduring), how purity shows itself positively (honoring marriage) and negatively (avoiding fornication, adultery, lust, and pornography), and why contentment is both a discipline and a spiritual command rooted in trust that God will never forsake us.

The message emphasizes spiritual formation: character is shown in habits, words, and actions, and is developed by regular, personal encounter with Jesus — "meeting with Jesus" at the cross, the tomb, and in daily discipleship. The speaker reminds listeners that genuine character change is ongoing and grounded in Christ's sacrifice and ongoing priestly work.

Listeners can expect practical application: self-examination questions about how you think, speak, and act toward your spouse and fellow believers; warnings about cultural pitfalls around money and sexual ethics; encouragement to follow and pray for leaders; and an invitation to pursue a deeper life with Christ so that your actions increasingly reflect his character.

This episode is designed for anyone seeking clear, biblical guidance on growing Christian character in ordinary life — from family relationships to finances to faithful church membership — with an emphatic call to root every change in the person and work of Jesus.

 

Handout: 

HOW TO BUILD YOUR CHARACTER (Hebrews 13) 
Neal Pollard 
 
I. __________________ OTHERS (1-3) 
 
II. BE ___________________ (4) 
 
III. BE _____________________ (5-6) 
 
IV. _____________________ YOUR ___________________ (7-8) 
 
V. _________________ STRANGE ___________________ (9-11) 
 
VI. ________________ WITH __________________ (12-14)

 

Duration 33:05

"Common Sins and Struggles" by Joey Morgan - Part 5

April 5, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode Joey leads a Bible-based study on the common sin of pride: what it is, how it appears (an exaggerated sense of self-worth, pride in possessions, and pride in self-sufficiency), and why each form separates us from God.

Key passages discussed include James 4, Philippians 2–3, Proverbs, Matthew 6, and passages on repentance and correction. The speaker explains spiritual consequences like blindness, resistance to repentance, and stubbornness, and highlights Christ’s humility as the model for change.

Practical application and fixes are offered: cultivate humility, seek God’s opinion over your own, practice contentment, confess and bear one another’s burdens, and live as doers of Scripture rather than mere hearers.

 

Duration 42:13