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

"The Delights of Discipleship" by Neal Pollard

June 14, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

This episode opens with announcements about the church’s monthly song service. Neal references Miller’s reading from Isaiah 62 and links the gathering to an old-fashioned hymn-singing tradition as well as a 21st-century request process.

The main message examines what it means to be called a "Christian" in the New Testament (Acts and 1 Peter), noting the title is rare in Scripture but rich in meaning: a disciple who is taught, someone to be persuaded toward faith, and one who may suffer for that name. The speaker names biblical examples (Ananias, Paul, Barnabas, and scenes from Acts) to illustrate how new believers in the early church experienced joy and transformation.

The sermon then gives five core reasons the Christian life is described as the greatest life: (1) sins are forgiven through Christ; (2) joy that does not depend on sinful pleasure; (3) a deeper, God-given purpose lived out in the church; (4) temporal problems that do not have permanent hold over the believer; and (5) a secure eternal future beyond this life. Scriptural support is cited throughout, including Romans, Ephesians, 1 Peter, Philippians, and other passages.

The speaker contrasts Christian hope with cultural alternatives — evolution, humanism, materialism, and Epicureanism — arguing that those worldviews leave people aimless, while the gospel gives lasting meaning, joy, and forgiveness. Personal and contemporary illustrations are used, including references to missions (Hyrum and Brittany’s trip to Nigeria) and local baptisms that mirror the joy recorded in Acts.

Practical challenges are addressed: the need for ongoing teaching and discipleship for those who say they are Christian but lack instruction, the process of persuasion and questioning for new converts, and the reality that faith sometimes costs relationships or comfort. Yet the repeated encouragement is that faith brings real, durable blessings.

The episode closes with an invitation: whether you are a faithful Christian encouraged to live confidently (but humbly) in a skeptical world, someone who needs restoration after turning away, or a listener considering faith for the first time, you are urged to respond in obedience to the gospel and to come forward if moved during the closing singing.

 

Duration 29:55

"The Grace of God in Jonah" by Neal Pollard

June 14, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

This episode is a sermon-style exploration of the book of Jonah that reflects on God’s grace in both the lives of the lost and those already in covenant with God. Neal addresses personal struggles with obedience and compassion, references a community camp and volunteers, and prays for the safety and spiritual growth of attendees.

Topics covered include: the narrative arc of Jonah (flight, storm, fish, Nineveh, and aftermath); five key truths about God’s grace—how grace pursues us when we run, punishes us when we sin, pardons us when we repent, empowers us when we return, and remains patient when we relapse; and practical scripture connections from Jonah, Luke, Romans, Titus, 1 Timothy, Hebrews, Galatians, and 1 John. Illustrations include the sailors, the prodigal, the story of Peter, and a cultural reference to the film Catch Me If You Can to highlight pursuit and mercy.

Key points listeners can expect: an honest look at Jonah as a flawed, sometimes unsympathetic protagonist who nonetheless receives and proclaims God’s grace; the balance between the consequences of sin and the persistence of divine mercy; the ongoing need for grace after baptism; and encouragement that God still uses repentant people despite past failures. The sermon emphasizes both God’s justice and long-suffering compassion, and challenges listeners to respond in repentance, service, and prayer.

The episode concludes with a pastoral invitation—an opportunity to respond to God’s call, to seek restoration publicly or privately, and to join in a closing hymn. Scripture references woven throughout the message provide a guide for further study and reflection.

 

Duration 28:26

"A Study of the book of Acts" by Neal Pollard - Part 2

June 14, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

 

In this episode the host leads a Bible-class-style study through Acts chapter 2, exploring the recurring challenges the church will always face when sharing the gospel. The teaching, planned with co-teacher Hiram (who will continue the series in Acts 3–5), opens with background from Acts 1 and explains how the early believers moved from a season of waiting into a door of opportunity at Pentecost.

Topics covered include the Pentecost event (the mighty rushing wind, divided tongues of fire, and speaking in other languages), the diverse audience gathered in Jerusalem, and why Peter — not the entire group — is recorded as the primary proclaimer. The class discusses practical barriers to evangelism: fear, feelings of inadequacy, lack of conviction, complacency, and assumptions that it is "not my job." Several attendees contribute in-session observations (including Roger, Joey, Harry, Kevin and Ms. Doris), illustrating the real questions Christians face about sharing faith.

Key lessons from Peter’s sermon are highlighted: overcoming audience prejudices (doubts about credentials and mockery that the speakers were drunk), answering objections with Scripture (use of Joel’s prophecy and appeals to witnesses of Jesus’ life, miracles, death and resurrection), and offering a clear, compelling presentation of responsibility and guilt leading to repentance. The resurrection is emphasized as the sermon’s central claim and decisive evidence for the gospel.

The episode is both theological and practical: it models how to relate to people with different backgrounds by finding common ground, practicing empathy, and tailoring one’s approach, while also urging believers to live consistently so their witness is credible. The teaching closes with a call to bold, humble evangelism — using Bible-based answers, patient gentleness, and a life that demonstrates the truth of the message — with an invitation to continue into the next sessions on Acts 3–5.

 

Duration 43:11

Men of the New Testament: "John the Baptist" by Landon Bryant - Part 1

June 10, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

In this episode Landon Bryant delivers a focused lecture on John the Baptist, tracing his identity, ministry, and theological significance through Old and New Testament texts. Beginning with Malachi's prophecy and Isaiah's "voice crying in the wilderness," the talk situates the Jewish expectation of Elijah's return and explains how the Gospels interpret John as the one who comes in Elijah's spirit and mission.

The episode examines key New Testament scenes: John’s bold proclamations ("Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand," "Behold the Lamb of God"), the baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:13–17), and John’s candid humility ("I am not worthy," "He must increase, I must decrease"). Bryant also walks through John 1 and Matthew 11 to show how Scripture answers questions about John’s identity and how Jesus evaluates him—calling John the greatest born of women yet noting that the least in the kingdom is greater.

Listeners will hear a close look at Jesus’ response to John’s disciples in prison, where Jesus points to miraculous signs (the blind see, the lame walk, the deaf hear, lepers cleansed, the dead raised, and the good news preached to the poor) as evidence that the long-awaited divine work is happening. The talk contrasts John and Elijah—similar in appearance, location, and call to repentance—while highlighting differences: John performs no miracles, baptizes with water, and uniquely announces the coming baptism of the Spirit.

Key takeaways include practical implications for Christian ministry: emulate John’s single-minded mission to point others to Christ, embrace humility, and recognize the greater revelation and responsibility believers have after the resurrection. The episode emphasizes that imperfect people are still usable by God, that proclamation remains central ("Behold the Lamb of God"), and that believers should orient their lives around the motto "He must increase; I must decrease." Scriptural references discussed include Malachi 4, Isaiah 40, Matthew 3–4, Matthew 11, John 1–3, Luke 3–4, and passages from the prophets and Kings.

 

Duration 40:28

"What AI Can't Do" by Hiram Kemp

June 7, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

In this sermon Hiram welcomes the congregation and then turns to a sustained, pastoral reflection on artificial intelligence: its rapid spread, cultural influence, and the need for Christians to engage AI from a biblical perspective. The talk opens with statistics and cultural anecdotes — the 2025 AI spending figure, the prevalence of generative AI in business, and studies showing Gen Z engaging AI as a friend — and references high-profile voices (Richard Dawkins, Marvin Minsky, Sam Altman) to frame contemporary claims about machine consciousness and human identity.

The sermon anchors its critique and counsel in Scripture. It draws on Genesis (creation and the Tower of Babel), Psalms, Isaiah, Acts, the Gospels, and Pauline letters to argue that AI has important practical uses but also clear limits. The speaker outlines seven key realities AI cannot do: replace human value (we are image-bearers of God), complete our most important tasks (worship, repentance, and evangelism), substitute true human companionship and friendship, supply ultimate certainty or be a source of truth, think deeply on our behalf, comfort broken hearts with genuine assurance, or solve humanity’s deepest problem of sin and need for salvation.

Practical concerns and pastoral warnings are woven throughout: AI may make tasks easier or produce polished outputs, but relying on it in place of prayer, discipleship, authentic speech, pastoral care, rigorous thought, or personal testimony risks a loss of what it means to be human and to serve God. The sermon includes concrete examples — Philip, Ananias, and Cornelius in Acts — to show why God calls embodied people to share the Gospel, and cautions against mistaking algorithmic affirmation for true friendship or spiritual counsel.

The message concludes with a pastoral invitation and encouragement: Christians should neither demonize technology nor uncritically worship it; instead they should use it wisely while remembering the primacy of Scripture, the necessity of human discipleship, and the gospel as the only remedy for humanity’s deepest needs. Listeners are invited to respond in repentance, baptism, and discipleship, and to seek prayer or conversation with the congregation’s leaders about faith and how to engage AI faithfully.

 

Duration 32:14

"A Heart for God" by Hiram Kemp

June 7, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

This episode is a sermon-style message that walks through the book of Deuteronomy, using the image of marriage vows to explain how God’s covenant with Israel moves from a legal standing into a heartfelt relationship. The speaker traces Israel’s story from Genesis and Exodus to Sinai, shows how the giving of the law establishes God’s people by law, and argues that only a returned, wholehearted love makes them God’s people by love.

Key topics include: the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4–5) and loving God with all heart, soul, mind and strength; the necessity of receiving God’s love (1 John, Romans, Ephesians); the difference between ritual obedience and heartfelt devotion; the “circumcision of the heart” and inner transformation; obedience as the fruit of love; loving what God loves (justice for strangers, widows, the poor); remaining loyal when tested; and the biblical call to cling to God until the end.

The episode unpacks specific Deuteronomy passages (chapters 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 30, 34) and connects them to New Testament texts (John, Romans, Ephesians, James) and practical Christian life—baptism, public vows, spiritual dryness, temptation, and everyday choices that show where the heart truly is. Illustrations include modern examples (sports fandom) to show how human beings can and do give wholehearted allegiance, and why God deserves that devotion.

Format and guests: a pulpit sermon delivered by a pastor/speaker (sermon audio), with a closing song and a congregational invitation to respond. The message closes with practical invitations—repentance, baptism, public prayer—and an exhortation to receive God’s love, obey his commands, and hold fast to him through trials.

 

Duration 33:16

"A Study of the book of Acts" by Hiram Kemp - Part 1

June 7, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

 

This episode is a recorded Bible class examining Acts chapter 1 and the kinds of challenges the church has always faced. Hiram and co-teacher Neal introduce the quarter-long study through the Book of Acts, framing the series around enduring struggles—division, false doctrine, societal pressure, leadership failure—and the ways the early church overcame them. The class includes interactive participation from attendees who ask questions and offer reflections, producing a practical, conversational tone.

The discussion outlines a threefold purpose for studying Acts: to relieve believers by showing they are not the first to face hardship, to remind them to seek divine solutions in Scripture, and to resolve them to persevere. The instructor emphasizes the two sides of the church (God’s perfect, divine side and humanity’s imperfect side) plus the opposition of the world and connects Acts to Luke’s gospel and the triune work of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Acts 1 is explored for three main challenges: the challenge of waiting (especially for the promised Holy Spirit), the challenge of living and working in Jesus’ physical absence while awaiting his return, and the challenge of replacing fallen leaders (the story of Judas and the selection of Matthias). Scriptural cross-references—Luke, John’s teaching about the Spirit, Acts 2, Psalms, and New Testament pastoral instruction—are used to explain why the apostles had to wait, what the Spirit would provide (power, remembrance of Jesus’ teaching, gifts to confirm the message), and how the church should respond.

Practical takeaways include what to do while waiting (devoted prayer and active preparation), the difference between passive waiting and biblically robust waiting, how to avoid the "church-hunter" mentality, and the importance of humility: recognizing personal shortcomings, relying on God, and continuing faithful service whether or not one is chosen for formal leadership. The class also touches on contemporary pressures (including a brief mention of modern challenges like AI) and how the same divine resources apply today.

Listeners can expect a warm, instructional session with Scripture readings, group interaction, pastoral application, and clear next steps for the quarter: further chapter-by-chapter teaching through Acts, encouragement to seek the Spirit’s power in daily life, and a call to perseverance—be relieved, be reminded, and be resolved to press on in the work of the kingdom until Christ returns.

 

Duration 43:34

"Words of Life" by Hiram Kemp - Part 13

June 3, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

 

This episode is a full Bible-class study of 3 John (all 15 verses), centering on its unique tone and practical focus. Hiram walks the class through John’s reversal of the usual doctrine-then-application pattern, highlighting how John stresses behavior shaped by Jesus’ teachings without explicitly naming Jesus in this short letter. The study identifies and examines five personalities featured in the epistle — the encouraging elder (John), the beloved servant (Gaius), the self-seeking troublemaker (Diotrephes), the well-recommended example (Demetrius), and the faithful friends — using them as a mirror for personal and congregational self-examination.

Topics covered include the key verse 3 John 11 (“Beloved, do not imitate evil, but imitate good. Whoever does good is from God…”), the powerful prayer of 3 John 2 (prosperity in body and soul), the practice of hospitality toward traveling missionaries, stewardship as whole-life responsibility, and practical tests for spiritual character and church unity. The class reads the entire short letter aloud, surveys historical background on the name Gaius, and compares biblical witnesses (e.g., Paul’s letters, Hebrews, Proverbs) to underscore the teaching.

Class interaction includes questions and observations from students, short references to earlier lessons (1 Peter), and concrete application points: praise and encourage those who live in the truth, financially and practically support gospel workers so you become a “fellow worker for the truth,” beware and confront prideful, controlling behavior that harms the church, and cultivate relationships that know people by name and testify to their character. The episode closes with practical challenges: become an encourager, tend your own soul so it prospers, examine your reputation, and choose to imitate good.

 

Duration 40:41

Ambition vs. Humility: A Youth Night Sermon on Serving Others

May 31, 2026 - Sunday PM Service

 

This episode captures a youth-led evening service featuring prayers, scripture readings, hymns, and a heartfelt message from a recent high‑school graduate. Guests and participants include closing-prayer leader Corbin, Travis, devotionals from Cooper and Maddox, and several young men leading the service. The program blends announcements, communal worship, and a Gospel-centered talk focused on living out Christlike humility.

Worship included classic and contemporary songs—"Jesus Loves Me," "Mansion Over the Hilltop," "God Is So Good," "I’ll Fly Away," "Higher Ground," and "You Are Holy"—along with communal prayers and the Lord’s Supper. Multiple prayers asked for the sick and shut‑ins, guidance for speakers, and strength for the young leaders as they serve the congregation.

Scripture readings were Philippians 2:3–5, Matthew 5:14–16, and Galatians 6:9–10. The central sermon theme examined the phrase “do nothing from selfish ambition,” contrasting worldly ambition with the call to look outward, serve others, and pursue humility. Speakers emphasized that accomplishments fade but lives touched for Christ endure, urged the congregation not to grow weary in doing good, and reminded listeners that the seeds we plant in daily acts of kindness will yield a spiritual harvest.

Key takeaways: pursue ambition for Christ rather than recognition, practice quiet acts of service (even when no one is watching), let your light shine so others glorify God, and remain faithful in planting seeds of love and generosity. The episode ends with an invitation to respond to the Gospel, share prayer requests, and a closing encouragement for all listeners—especially young people—to start sowing now and live as visible reflections of God’s love.

 

Duration 28:22

"Learning From Overgrown Fields and Broken Down Walls" (Proverbs 24:30-34) by Neal Pollard

May 31, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

In this episode Neal walks listeners through Proverbs 24:30–34 and other biblical texts to draw practical, pastoral lessons about neglect, stewardship, and spiritual renewal. Using Solomon’s observation of the overgrown field and broken wall, the speaker examines three main ideas: the condition of what God has entrusted to us, the spiritual and moral causes of decay (especially sloth and apathy), and the real-life consequences that follow when we fold our hands instead of tending our lives.

The episode covers application to multiple areas of life — marriage, parenting, the home, personal spiritual disciplines, and vocational responsibilities — and highlights key scriptural cross-references (1 Kings 4, Matthew 7 and 12, Proverbs 6, 13, 19, 22, Romans 13, 1 Thessalonians 5, Hebrews 2, Ephesians 4 and 2 Peter 2). The speaker uses vivid illustrations, including the Surfside condo collapse and a popular home-renovation metaphor, to show how slow neglect compounds into sudden disaster and how faithful care produces fruit.

Key points include: we are stewards of the gifts God gives (time, relationships, material resources, character); small, repeated neglect leads to ruin; spiritually “falling asleep” has tangible and eternal consequences; and restoration is possible through repentance and renewal in Christ. Practical steps and measures — discipline, direction, daily habits of prayer and Scripture, and intentional rituals to sustain marriage and family life — are offered to help listeners cultivate healthy “fields.”

Listeners should expect a biblically grounded, pastoral exposition with personal and cultural illustrations, explicit applications for home and spiritual life, and an invitation to respond in faith: renewed vigilance, repentance, and practical rebuilding under Christ’s transforming work.

 

Duration 32:49