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

August 2, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode we walk through Acts 16–18 with a practical focus on the personal and corporate challenges the early church faced — especially the difficulty of discerning and submitting to God’s will. Neal reflects on recent ministry experiences (including trips to Cambodia and Tanzania) and open with a short anecdote about learning not to “hesitate.”

Guests and voices in the conversation include Hiram (co-teacher) and references to Chris Young’s earlier study of Acts; the talk frequently cites Paul, Luke, Timothy and Silas as the missionary team and highlights Luke’s joining the group in Troas. The teaching traces Paul’s second missionary journey, the Holy Spirit’s direct leading in Acts 16:6–13, and the vision that sent Paul into Macedonia.

Key biblical themes covered: how to discern God’s direction (Scripture, prayer, renewing the mind), the role of providence, Proverbs 16:3 and Romans 12:6–8 as practical guides, and the idea that sometimes God’s leading is understood only in hindsight — the “rearview mirror” of divine guidance.

The episode compares three city responses in Acts 17 — Thessalonica (hostility and persecution), Berea (eager reception and daily Scripture examination), and Athens (skepticism, ridicule, and a few conversions) — drawing out lessons for evangelism, teaching, and living in a largely non‑religious culture.

Practical takeaways include honest tools for decision making when multiple “doors” seem open: anchor decisions in Scripture, commit plans to the Lord, stay in prayer, watch for opportunities to use spiritual gifts locally (and globally), and accept that planting seeds is part of the calling even when immediate results are unseen.

Listeners can expect scriptural exposition, real-life ministry illustrations (including an extended personal example about discerning whether to serve overseas), and direct application for congregational life — how to spot a “Macedonian call” at home or abroad and how to respond in faith whether you meet mockery, delay, or belief.

 

Duration 40:39

July 29, 2026 - Wednesday Bible Class

In this live, uplifting lesson a teacher delivers his first full class exploring the life, ministry, and writings of John the Apostle. The session blends scripture reading, practical reflection, and brief audience interaction as the speaker walks listeners through who John was, why he mattered to Jesus, and what his testimony means for Christians today.

The episode traces John from his calling as the son of Zebedee and member of Jesus’ inner circle (Matthew 4; Matthew 10) to his portrayal as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” who stood at the cross and was entrusted with Mary’s care (John 13; John 19). Key moments covered include John racing to the empty tomb (John 20), meeting Jesus by the Sea of Tiberias (John 21), witnessing the raising of Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5), the Transfiguration (Matthew 17), and Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane (Matthew 26).

Cody reviews the books attributed to John: the Gospel of John (emphasizing Christ’s divinity with passages like John 1 and John 3:16), the three epistles (1–3 John) with themes of love, obedience, fellowship, warnings against false teachers, and practical encouragement (including the example of Gaius), and finally Revelation — written on Patmos — with its visions, messages to the seven churches, calls to repentance, and scenes of final judgment.

The lesson highlights major theological points from John’s witness: Jesus as the Lamb of God and Son of God, the Good Shepherd who lays down his life, the way/the truth/the life, and the true vine that branches must abide in. The teacher emphasizes repentance, perseverance ("be faithful unto death"), separation from false teaching, and living out the commandments as evidence of love for God (1 John). Important Revelation themes discussed include church condition categories (loveless, persecuted, compromising, corrupt, dead, lukewarm) and the Great White Throne judgment.

Practical takeaways close the episode: encouragement to speak up about faith, to run the Christian life as a marathon rather than a sprint, to maintain a good reputation through faithful service, and to press on in obedience and love. Cody invites critiques and feedback as part of growing in confidence and continuing the work of sharing the gospel.

 

Duration 39:01

July 26, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

This episode is a sermon-style exploration of 1 Chronicles 5:18–22 and what that Old Testament battle teaches Christians about spiritual warfare today. Neal walks listeners through the historical setting—the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and the half-tribe of Manasseh fighting the Hagrites during King Saul’s reign—and explains why the Chronicler focuses on the southern line through which the Messiah would come.

Topics covered include: the concrete story in Chronicles, how the Israelites cried out to God for help, the biblical pattern of calling on God during the fight, and the assurance that God answers those who trust Him. The message ties the passage to New Testament teaching on spiritual battles and godly resources, with references to 2 Corinthians, Ephesians 6 (the armor of God), Philippians 4:6–7 (prayer and peace), Matthew 7:7, James 1:5, Revelation 8, and 1 John 4:4 and 5:4.

Key practical points highlight: (1) cry out to God for help and pray in the midst of the battle, (2) trust that God answers and values our prayers, and (3) recognize that the war ultimately belongs to the Lord so we avoid dishonorable or flesh-driven fights (citing 2 Timothy, Titus, and James). The speaker emphasizes that true, saving faith is obedient faith—repentance, confession, and baptism (Acts and Romans passages referenced)—and that Christians are called to walk in the light and confess when they stumble.

This episode is delivered by a single preacher/speaker. Listeners can expect a carefully reasoned biblical application aimed at encouraging prayerful dependence, holy conduct in conflict, and confidence in God’s promised victory through Christ.

 

Duration 8:36

July 26, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

This sermon-style episode unpacks Romans chapter 7 to address a timeless spiritual dilemma: why Christians continue to struggle with sin. Neal traces historical and theological claims—from John Wesley's Christian perfectionism and Pelagius to modern social claims—and contrasts them with Scripture, particularly Paul’s candid self-examination in Romans 7 and 8.

Topics covered include the nature and source of the problem (sin in the world, the flesh, and sinful desires), what the law truly is and is not, and how the law exposes sin rather than causes it. The message identifies three dimensions of the struggle—disbelief (the shock of seeing ourselves sin), the nearness of evil, and inner conflict between flesh and spirit—and emphasizes that this battle is common to all believers, even mature Christians.

Key points highlight that: (1) the law is holy and not the root cause of failure; (2) sin is an inescapable reality that produces death and bondage; (3) the solution is not isolation or resignation but recognizing weakness, seeking deliverance, and relying on the Savior. The episode develops the biblical resources for victory—God’s unconditional and conquering love, faithful forgiveness (1 John 1:7–9), and the victory available through Jesus (Romans 8)—and calls listeners to respond with faith, repentance, baptism, and participation in the church community.

Listeners can expect pastoral encouragement, scriptural exposition, practical applications for daily spiritual struggle, and an urgent invitation to pursue deliverance through Christ rather than giving in to despair. The sermon reassures believers that they are not alone in the fight and points to the Savior as the ultimate strength and hope.

Duration 30:46

July 26, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

This episode is a teaching session from Cumberland Trace exploring Acts 16 and the start of the Second Missionary Journey. Neal sets Acts 16 in context—after the Paul–Barnabas split—and examines the secondary yet pivotal roles of Timothy and John Mark, with reference to Paul, Silas, Luke and the decisions of the Jerusalem council in Acts 15.

Topics covered include Timothy’s background (a disciple with mixed Jewish–Greek heritage, taught Scripture by his mother and grandmother, well regarded in Lystra and Iconium, circumcised to remove barriers to ministry), John Mark’s early role as an assistant and his later significance as the author of the Gospel of Mark, and Luke’s appearance on the journey. Scriptural references and practical implications from Acts 16:1–5 and later New Testament passages are used to build the case.

Neal also shares congregation-specific data and concerns: the church averages about 400 in morning worship; there are roughly 57–60 people in their 20s and 30s, about 97 children and teenagers (plus several expectant mothers), producing nearly 200 people who fit the Bible’s definition of youth when combined with college-aged members. These numbers frame the urgent opportunity and responsibility in developing future leaders.

Key challenges discussed are modern distractions (technology and cultural influences), generational gaps and intimidation in approaching young people, attrition and moral pressures, the limits of the church when the home doesn’t prioritize Christ, and perceived or real shortages of mentors. The teaching repeatedly returns to the principle “to whom much is given, much is required,” emphasizing accountability.

Practical takeaways and action steps include: identify and invest in raw material—young people with potential; put them into responsible service roles that stretch them; balance encouragement (à la Barnabas) with loving admonition; model faith in an intergenerational context; cultivate mentoring relationships rather than cold approaches; and prioritize parenting support (the speaker mentions an upcoming parenting seminar).

The session closes with a clear call to action for listeners: commit to encourage or mentor a young person, remember that adequacy comes from God (2 Corinthians 3:5), and actively use the church’s resources and relationships to raise the next generation of leaders. Listeners should expect a blend of biblical teaching, local congregation statistics, candid discussion of obstacles, and concrete mentorship strategies they can put into practice.

 

Duration 37:59

July 22, 2026 - Wednesday Bible Class

In this episode of the New Testament Characters summer series, the class studies Pontius Pilate — the Roman governor who presided over Jesus’ trial — and compares how Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, and 1 Timothy portray him. The lesson opens by placing Pilate in the series context and then reads Matthew 27 aloud before examining passages unique to the other Gospels.

The instructor and the class trace the trial scene: Pilate’s repeated declarations that he finds no fault in Jesus; the crowd’s demand for Barabbas and crucifixion; Pilate’s wife’s warning from a dream; Pilate’s symbolic hand‑washing; the soldiers’ mocking and the role of Joseph of Arimathea in securing Jesus’ body; and the chief priests’ request to guard the tomb. Selected passages from Mark 15, Luke 23, John 18–19, Acts, and 1 Timothy 6:13–16 are compared to highlight differences and emphases across accounts.

Key points emphasized: Pilate repeatedly recognizes Jesus’ innocence but yields to political pressure and public opinion; his question “What is truth?” and his failure to wait for an answer are highlighted as pivotal moments; Jesus’ calm, truthful confession before Pilate is held up as the Christian example. The class also underscores how Pilate’s attempt to disclaim responsibility (washing his hands) did not change the fact that he judged Jesus to be crucified.

The episode broadens into practical application and group discussion. Participants reflect on how Pilate’s fear of losing office and desire to please people mirror modern temptations to choose the easier path over the right one. Real‑world examples raised include responses during the pandemic, public pressure on religious convictions, and moral decisions like issuing marriage licenses that conflict with faith commitments.

Paul’s reference to the “good confession before Pontius Pilate” in 1 Timothy is used to challenge listeners to remain blameless and faithful when obedience is costly. The contrast between Jesus’ steadfastness and Pilate’s weakness becomes the episode’s moral: knowing the truth is not the same as living by it.

Listeners can expect close readings of Gospel texts, historical and theological observations about Pilate’s role, candid classroom discussion, and practical calls to courage and faithfulness in the face of social and political pressure.

 

Duration 38:18

July 19, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

This episode is a recording of a pastoral sermon that opens with joyful congregation news and then unfolds a detailed exposition of John 16:33: "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

Neal walks the listeners through John 16 in context (the private discourse to the apostles before the cross), highlights repeated phrases and themes ("these things I have said to you," the Father, the Spirit, repeated uses of "I"), and draws four practical applications for Christians today: (1) Christ’s words are given so you may not stumble; (2) remember His promises in times of trial; (3) the Holy Spirit will help, guide, convict, and glorify Christ; and (4) faith transforms grief into lasting joy.

Scripture and study tools referenced include John 13–17, Matthew 16 and 26, Luke 24, Acts, Romans 12 (the transformed life), Ephesians (spiritual blessings), 1 Corinthians, Hebrews, 1 & 2 Peter, 2 Thessalonians, Revelation, and practical passages about fleeing temptation (1 Corinthians 6; 1 Timothy 6; 2 Timothy 2; James 4). The sermon uses biblical examples—Joseph in Egypt, Peter and the apostles, Paul and early persecutors—alongside a contemporary illustrative story about Arland Williams Jr. (the Air Florida crash) to emphasize courage and selfless faith.

Key points listeners can expect: careful verse-by-verse attention to John 16 and its repeated motifs; encouragement that Jesus has already overcome the world so believers can stand; a survey of spiritual resources (personal humility and unity, prayer, spiritual gifts, mutual love, biblical truth and promises, and the abiding presence of the Father and Spirit); warnings about the reality of stumbling and the need for vigilance; and a gospel invitation to repent, believe, be baptized, or to return to Christ if you have drifted.

People mentioned in the service include congregation members involved in baptisms and studies and those who came forward during the service. This episode is for listeners seeking biblical encouragement to persevere through trials, deepen trust in Christ’s victory, and apply John 16’s promises in daily life.

 

Duration 42:39

July 19, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

This episode is a sermon-style message built around the anecdote of theologian Karl Barth and the children's hymn "Jesus Loves Me," using that simple confession as the gateway to seven central biblical convictions. Hiram examines why the Bible is trustworthy, how its claims shape faith and life, and what a believer’s response should look like in a changing culture.

The talk surveys evidence Hiram believes points to the Bible’s divine authenticity—its claim to inspiration, supernatural knowledge, high moral ethic, predictive prophecy, and internal unity—and cites passages including 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Genesis 1, Isaiah 44–45, Psalm 119, and John 10:35 as anchors for those claims.

Listeners are led through seven practical, closely argued points: 1) truth doesn’t change; 2) sin is deadly; 3) there is hope; 4) salvation is by grace through faith; 5) worship must be in spirit and in truth; 6) eternity matters most; and 7) faithfulness is required. Each point is illustrated with New Testament and Old Testament passages (e.g., Romans, Matthew, Titus, John, Hebrews) and everyday metaphors to make the implications clear.

Hiram moves from doctrine to application: read and test Scripture honestly, respond to God in repentance and saving faith, be baptized (Acts 2:38; Titus 3), worship God with the right heart and according to Scripture (John 4; Colossians 3), and pursue a lifetime of faithful discipleship. The message includes an invitation for listeners who want help responding biblically—prayer, guidance, and practical assistance are offered.

There are no outside guests; this is a direct, pastoral exposition designed to inform, encourage, and challenge. Expect clear biblical teaching, numerous scripture references, pastoral exhortation, and an urgent call to trust the Bible as the foundation for belief and life: “The Bible tells me so.”

Duration 33:19

July 19, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

This episode walks through Acts chapters 13–15 and examines the recurring challenges every church faces. Using the Antioch congregation as the starting point, Hiram traces the Holy Spirit’s call to set apart Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for mission work, highlights the church’s diversity and gifted leadership (Barnabas, Simeon/Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen, John Mark), and outlines practical principles for stewarding congregational gifts: learn people’s abilities, diversify service, avoid comfort, and be willing to send leaders to advance the gospel. The message then addresses opposition from false teachers and religious authorities — illustrated by Elymas/Bar‑Jesus and the proconsul Sergius Paulus — including Paul’s Spirit‑empowered rebuke and the tactics for countering error: know and preach the truth, call out destructive teaching when necessary, protect seekers, and hold out hope for those ensnared by falsehoods. The class also covers preacheritis (the tendency to idolize preachers), with the Lystra miracle as a case study and concrete signs and remedies (acknowledge gifts without pledging allegiance, point people to God, and prevent idolatry). Finally, the episode confronts legalism and internal disagreement (the Antioch controversy over circumcision and the Paul–Barnabas split), offering responses such as sound reasoning, firm but generous directives for new believers, trusting God’s sufficiency, and recognizing that conscientious disagreement can expand the work rather than destroy it. Throughout, the speaker ties each biblical episode to contemporary application for congregations: how to manage talent, respond to false teaching, evangelize religious people, resist pride and envy, and keep unity of mission amid differences.

 

Duration 44:42

July 12, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

This episode is a recorded Bible class covering Acts chapters 10–12. Hiram leads the class through three chapters as they examine the recurring challenges the early church faced: welcoming Gentiles, resolving cultural and religious barriers, and stabilizing growing congregations. Key passages include the conversion of Cornelius, Peter’s rooftop vision, the Gentile Pentecost in Cornelius’s house, the church’s response in Jerusalem, the growth of the church in Antioch, and the persecution and deliverance recorded in Acts 12.

The class traces the goal of Acts (Acts 1:8) — to establish and preach the gospel to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth — and evaluates how the early church advanced that mission up through chapter 9. The instructor then details the central challenge in Acts 10–11: how Jews and Gentiles are brought together. The episode examines Cornelius as a ‘God‑fearer,’ his moral life and prayers, why divine confirmation was needed, and why moral religiosity is not the same as salvation in Christ.

The session walks through Peter’s vision of the sheet of animals, his initial resistance rooted in Levitical food laws and cultural heritage, and how both Cornelius and Peter required divine revelation to accept Gentile inclusion. Listeners hear the account of the Holy Spirit falling on Cornelius’s household (a Gentile Pentecost), the subsequent baptisms, and the debate in Jerusalem that forced Peter to explain his actions publicly in Acts 11.

Attention shifts to Antioch, where the gospel advances among Greeks and other non‑Jewish peoples. The class highlights Barnabas’s role in stabilizing that congregation, his bringing Saul (Paul) to help, and the importance of strengthening local churches — emphasizing the principle that one cannot evangelize the world faster than local congregations can be established and stabilized.

The episode also surveys Acts 12: the arrest and execution of James, Peter’s miraculous deliverance, the congregation’s mixed response of doubt and praise, and the lesson that persecution, political opposition, and leadership losses do not stop the spread of God’s Word when believers cooperate with it.

Practical takeaways for modern listeners are emphasized throughout: acknowledge the spiritual good in seekers, show they aren’t far from the kingdom, push for an encounter with Scripture, use the gospel as the neutralizing standard, refuse favoritism or second‑class treatment, strengthen bonds quickly after conversion, listen to God’s leading, and invest in stabilizing local churches as the foundation for wider evangelism. The episode is driven by classroom dialogue between the teacher and participants and offers both exegetical insight and applicable pastoral guidance for welcoming diverse converts today.

 

Duration 44:08