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

September 6, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

This episode introduces the new quarter of adult and college classes and transitions into a focused study of 1 Corinthians, co-taught by the hosts and guest teachers. Announcements include Barrett and Grant leading the adult class (Psalms devotional studies) and Joey teaching the college class (sin struggles). The main teaching is a co-led lecture on Studies in 1 Corinthians with Hiram and Neal exploring the book’s context and application.

Listeners will hear a group discussion opening with the question: why do people leave a church? The episode catalogs common causes — hurt feelings or “church hurt,” unmet needs, lack of connection, doctrinal disputes, personality clashes, preacher-following, ministry availability for children, and even racial tension — and offers pastoral counsel about confronting problems biblically (go to elders, speak privately, avoid hasty moves) and recognizing the consumer mentality that can undermine Christian discipleship.

The hosts then ground the conversation in the history and geography of ancient Corinth — a strategic, wealthy, and morally compromised port city — and Paul’s role in founding the church there during his second missionary journey. Key background details include Corinth’s diverse population, its idolatrous and sexualized culture, and the unique pressures that produced division within the congregation.

The heart of the episode unpacks 1 Corinthians 1–4: Paul’s call as an apostle and his appeal for the church to be of the “same mind and same judgment.” Neal explains the theological meaning of calling (sanctification, fellowship with Christ, baptism as calling-on-the-name), Paul’s apostolic authority, and why reminding believers of their identity in Christ is the first step toward healing division.

Listeners are given a roadmap of the issues Paul addresses across the letter — factional allegiance to different leaders, sexual immorality, marital problems, disputes over judgment and conscience, misapplied Israelite examples, gender-role misunderstandings, abuse of the Lord’s Supper, and rivalry over spiritual gifts — and how these fractures reveal a deeper problem of worldly, fleshly thinking rather than a Christ-centered unity.

Finally, the episode points to Paul’s solution: re-center the church on the cross and on Christ’s revealed mind. Practical takeaways include pursuing unity through shared submission to Scripture and Christ’s mind (not merely human preferences), addressing doctrinal error through proper channels, valuing the body metaphor (many members, one purpose), and striving for mutual edification so the church can be blameless and effective in the world.

Duration 44:01

September 2, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

In this episode Bill fills in for Brother Clay and leads a thoughtful study on Luke—the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. Drawing on classroom discussion and contributions from Neal, Hiram and Kevin, the group examines Luke’s identity (including Paul’s references to him as the “beloved physician”), his background as a likely Gentile and synagogue-attendee, and his close companionship with the Apostle Paul as shown by the numerous “we” passages in Acts.

The host covers authorship and audience (Luke addressing Theophilus, sometimes styled “Most Excellent”), the literary link between Luke and Acts, and why these two volumes together make up roughly a quarter of the New Testament. Key themes are highlighted: Luke’s focus on Jesus’ humanity and compassion, the central role of the Holy Spirit, the missionary expansion of the church, fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, and Luke’s special attention to the poor, outcasts and Gentiles.

Listeners will hear close readings of pivotal passages (Luke 1:1–4, Luke 24:44–49 and Acts 1:8), comparisons with the other Gospels (how Luke’s Great Commission emphasizes repentance, forgiveness and Spirit-empowerment), and discussion of Luke’s historical reliability and its impact on faith. Practical applications are emphasized throughout: the mission to seek and save the lost, the transformation of believers into Christlikeness, the church’s responsibility to care for the needy, and the ongoing relevance of Acts as the model for bold, unhindered witness.

Expect a mixture of exposition, group Q&A, historical context, and pastoral reflection—ending in prayer—aimed at helping listeners understand both why Luke matters for Bible study and how Luke & Acts should shape the church’s mission and daily life today.

 

Duration 39:27

August 30, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

In this episode the speakers unpack the theme of Jesus as the Master Teacher, using Matthew 7:28–29 as a starting point. Through scripture readings, songs, and several short sermons they examine what makes a great teacher—authority, insight into the human heart, creative methods (parables, questions, direct challenge), and above all teaching by example. Listeners will hear reflections on Jesus’ teaching style, including the foot-washing in John 13, and an invitation to move beyond merely knowing doctrine toward living it.

The episode moves to a sustained look at how Jesus redefines righteousness through the Sermon on the Mount and related passages (Matthew 5–7, Luke 18). Speakers challenge the audience to stop measuring holiness by external behavior and checklists and instead evaluate motives and the condition of the heart. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector is used to show the danger of self-righteousness, while James 1:22 and other passages remind listeners that true faith is shown by being doers of the Word.

Another segment examines the illusion of self-cleansing and the risk of an ‘‘empty’’ holiness, drawing on Matthew 12:43–45 and John 15:4–5 to stress the necessity of abiding in Christ. The hosts explain how behavior modification without God’s presence leaves a person vulnerable, and why genuine transformation comes from the indwelling life of Jesus rather than merely sweeping one’s life clean.

The program also explores the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15) and a modern true-life story about a missing boy found decades later to illustrate God’s persistent compassion. Key takeaways include: God watches with compassion while we are still far off, God restores fully (not halfway), and heaven celebrates when a lost person returns. Scripture references woven throughout include Matthew, John, Luke, 2 Corinthians, Romans, Philippians, and others.

Expect a mix of preaching, pastoral reflection, scripture readings, and worship songs including “Every Time” and “Seek Ye First.” The episode issues a clear, warm invitation to examine whether you are merely performing righteousness or truly abiding in Christ, offers practical reflection questions, and closes with an encouragement to take steps toward restoration and closer relationship with the Father.

 

Duration 38:40

August 30, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

This episode features a sermon rooted in Matthew 7:1–6 and the wider context of the Sermon on the Mount, delivered during a service that includes youth-led worship and a brief announcement about three college‑age men preaching on the theme "Jesus the Master Teacher." Neal unpacks what Jesus meant by "Judge not, that you be not judged," showing how familiar words must be understood in context and tied back to Matthew 5:20 and the larger sermon.

The message examines the process of unrighteous judgment — how judgment begins in thought, becomes a narrowed way of seeing, and then moves outward into speech and action. The sermon traces sin’s progression with biblical illustrations (Eve, Lot, Joseph’s brothers, Achan, David, Herod, Judas) and modern cultural examples of how "judge not" is often invoked in media controversies.

Three principal problems with unrighteous judgment are identified: bias (we excuse ourselves and favor loved ones), hypocrisy (deflecting attention from our own faults and building ourselves up by tearing others down), and a distorted view (acting on incomplete facts or outward appearances). Neal uses concrete examples — including a baseball player’s ocular migraine and the story of Eliab and David — to show how limited perspective warps response.

The sermon offers a clear prescription. Practical steps include practicing rigorous self‑examination ("examine yourself"), cultivating brotherly love and the Golden Rule, actively asking God for help, and intentionally looking for the good in others (becoming "sparkle detectors" like Barnabas saw good in Paul). Neal stresses that discernment and church discipline have a place — but must be exercised by God’s standard and in a spirit of gentleness and mercy (Ephesians, 1 Corinthians, 2 Timothy, Hebrews).

The talk concludes with a reminder that righteous judgment is distinct from the unrighteous kind the sermon warns against: Christians are called to uphold God’s standard without becoming "hanging judges." Mercy triumphs over judgment, and the preacher issues an invitation to respond in repentance and obedience — a call to faith, baptism, and restoration that echoes the prodigal‑son picture of a merciful Father.

Listeners can expect a theological, pastoral, and practical exploration of judgment: careful exegesis of Matthew 7:1–6, scriptural cross‑references (John, James, 1 Corinthians, Romans), real‑world illustrations, and specific, actionable steps for replacing unfair criticism with humble, compassionate discernment.

 

Handout:

 

The Verse Everybody Knows... And What It Really Means

Neal Pollard

Text: _____________________________
I. THE ________________________ OF UNRIGHTEOUS _________________________
A. "I _____________________________________" (1-2)
B. "I _____________________________________" (3)
C. "I _____________________________________" (4)
D. "I _____________________________________" (5)
II. THE ________________________ OF UNRIGHTEOUS ________________________
A. We Suffer From _________________________________
B. We Struggle With ________________________________
C. We Struggle With A ____________________________ View
II. THE ________________________ FOR UNRIGHTEOUS ______________________
A. ____________________________________
B. ____________________________________
C. ____________________________________
D. ____________________________________
E. ____________________________________
Conclusion
A. God Doesn't Condemn:
B. But That's Not What Jesus Is Addressing In This Passage
C. We Will All Receive ____________________ From _________________ (Js. 2:11-12)

 

Duration 33:33

 

August 30, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

This episode is the final Bible class of the quarter, taught by Hiram with Neal as co-instructor, walking through Acts 20–28 and highlighting the recurring challenges every church faces. Starting in Acts 20 the class examines Paul’s ministry rhythm—how he deliberately encouraged other believers (spending months building people up), modeled a ministry of encouragement, and prioritized fellowship.

Key topics covered include: the ministry of encouragement (Acts 20:1–3; Proverbs 12:25; Romans 12:8), the centrality of corporate worship and the Lord’s Supper on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11; Hebrews 10:24–25), and practical ways to view worship as fellowship rather than entertainment—participation, mutual exhortation, and sacrificial giving (2 Samuel 24:24).

The class then turns to the harsh realities Paul faced: false accusation and misrepresentation in Jerusalem (Acts 21), how Christians should respond when misunderstood (gentleness, patient instruction from 2 Timothy 2:24–26; avoid mocking, vengeance, or endless complaining), and the long-term effects of slander that can upend lives while still serving God’s purposes.

Listeners also hear about the challenge of evangelism and handling rejection—Paul’s bold, Christ-centered preaching before rulers like Felix, Festus, and Agrippa (Acts 24–26) shows that faithful proclamation does not always produce immediate conversions, but the evangelist is successful when he shares the gospel faithfully (Philippians 1:29; Matthew 5:10–12).

Practical takeaways include: cultivate a ministry of encouragement (look for the overlooked; speak life when you see good), prioritize face-to-face worship and mutual participation, give and serve in ways that cost you something, respond to false accusations with humility and instruction rather than anger, and persist in evangelism without equating faithfulness to immediate results. The episode closes by challenging listeners to write Acts 29 in their community—consider what legacy the local congregation will leave and how each member will rise to these timeless challenges.

 

Duration 44:52

August 26, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

This episode is a classroom-style lecture tracing the Herodian dynasty as it appears in the New Testament. Chris walks listeners through seven Herods mentioned in Scripture — beginning with Herod the Great (Matthew 2) and continuing through Archelaus, Antipas, Philip I & II, Agrippa I, and Agrippa II — explaining who they were, when they reigned, and how they intersected with the life of Jesus and the early church.

Listeners will hear close readings of key passages (Matthew 2 & 24; Mark 6; Luke 3, 13, 23; Acts 12 & 25) and historical notes: Herod the Great’s building projects and enlargement of the temple, his murderous paranoia and the Bethlehem massacre; Archelaus’s brief, brutal rule and the family’s division of territories; Antipas’s role in John the Baptist’s imprisonment and beheading and his mocking treatment of Jesus; Philip I & II’s more minor mentions; Agrippa I’s persecution of the church (James’s execution and Peter’s imprisonment) and his prideful death; and Agrippa II’s famous “you almost persuaded me” exchange with Paul.

The episode also highlights larger themes and context: the Herods’ Edomite lineage and status as Roman client rulers, the political dynamics that shaped Jewish–Herodian relations, the prophetic fulfillments (Micah, Jeremiah, and the “called out of Egypt” motif), and the personal examples in the narrative (Joseph’s immediate obedience, the apostles’ suffering). Passages illustrating pride, power, and moral failure (with references to Proverbs) are used to draw practical lessons.

Key takeaways for listeners include how the Herodian dynasty influenced Jesus’ childhood, ministry, trial, and the early apostles; how political ambition, pride, and cruelty impacted both rulers and subjects; and why the speaker urges: learn from these examples — do not emulate them. No outside guests appear; the episode features the teacher’s exposition and interaction with a live class audience.

 

Duration 44:48

August 23, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

In this final session of the "Into the Word" Sunday-night series, Hiram and co-teacher Neal wrap up their in-depth study of Philippians by unpacking chapter 4. Framed around the book’s central theme—Christians experiencing joy through selfless service and sacrifice—the episode traces Paul’s practical steps for overcoming the major roadblocks that prevent believers from enjoying lasting joy.

The teaching is organized around three moves Paul makes: (1) resolve conflict (Philippians 4:1–3), illustrated by Paul’s appeal to Euodia and Syntyche and supported with cross-references to Matthew 5 & 18, Romans 12:18, Ephesians 4, and Hebrews 12:14; (2) get your mind right (Philippians 4:4–9) — rejoice in the Lord, cultivate gentleness and moderation, replace anxiety with prayer and thanksgiving, and meditate on whatever is true, pure, and praiseworthy; and (3) learn contentment (Philippians 4:10–13) — a practiced, Christ‑centered attitude illustrated by Paul’s own experience and grounded in the “it would have been enough” gratitude principle.

The episode includes interactive moments with attendees, real-world application tips (how to have hard conversations, the importance of going to people one-on-one, involving the church if needed), pastoral encouragement about anxiety and prayer, and practical spiritual disciplines to foster peace and contentment. Key takeaways: confront and reconcile conflict with humility and the aim of unity, convert worry into prayer so God’s surpassing peace can guard heart and mind, intentionally cultivate thoughts that honor God, and practice contentment until it becomes a lasting habit.

Listeners will leave with biblical guidance and actionable steps for handling interpersonal disputes, managing anxious thoughts through prayer, and developing a sustained, Christ-centered joy no matter life’s circumstances.

 

Duration 49:34

August 19, 2026 - Wednesday Bible Class

 

In this episode Kevin leads an in-depth study of Saul, later known as Paul, tracing his life from a well-educated Pharisee and Roman citizen in Tarsus to one of the most influential apostles and church planters in New Testament history. Mentioned participants include Neal and Hiram (who had led related studies) and class attendees who contribute questions and observations throughout the session.

Topics covered include Paul’s dual names and background (Hebrew Saul, Greek Paul), his education under Gamaliel, his trade as a tentmaker, early persecution of the church, and the dramatic Damascus road conversion. The episode examines Paul’s apostleship and authority (1 Corinthians, Galatians), his extensive New Testament authorship, and the debated authorship of Hebrews. It also explores his personal struggles — the “thorn in the flesh” (possible eyesight or speech issues), his visions and being caught up to the third heaven (2 Corinthians 12), and how these experiences shaped his ministry.

Kevin draws parallels between Paul and Moses — privileged upbringing, direct encounters with God, investment in successors (Timothy vs. Joshua), and untimely death — and reviews practical lessons from Paul’s life: zeal alone does not guarantee truth; be willing to accept the truth and change; do not let circumstances (singleness, imprisonment, opposition) stop gospel work; and rejoice whenever Christ is preached, even if motives are mixed (Philippians 1). Key scripture references discussed include Acts, Galatians, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Hebrews, Philippians, and Deuteronomy.

Listeners can expect a mix of biblical exposition, historical context, textual references, classroom interaction, and practical application — aiming to refresh familiar material and surface new insights into Paul’s character, ministry, and the lessons his life offers for faithful Christian service today.

 

Duration 39:07

August 23, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon 

This episode is a recorded sermon delivered at Cumberland Trace Church, exploring Jesus’ prayer for unity (John 17:20–23) and the practical life of the local church. Glenn reflects on the Lord’s Day as a time to commemorate Christ’s death, worship without instruments, instruct families from Scripture, and call the lost to faith.

Using passages from John 17, Ephesians 3, 1 Corinthians 12 and others, the message uncovers the pattern, purpose and preparation of Christian unity. The preacher outlines a series of spiritual "laws" that shape church life: the law of pardon (gospel obedience and baptism), the law of placement (how God adds and assigns members to the body), the law of purpose (every member’s role to glorify God), the law of peace (working in harmony), and the law of perseverance (standing together through trials).

Practical guidance is emphasized: respond to the gospel in repentance and baptism, study Scripture, rely on mature brothers and elders for help, worship and pray regularly, and serve faithfully in the place God has given you. The sermon stresses the church’s diversity as a strength and the imperative that no member is unimportant.

Adversity is reframed as a tool God uses to direct, inspect, correct, protect and perfect his people—Glenn cites Joseph as a biblical example—and listeners are encouraged to view trials as character-building opportunities. The message also calls Christians to put God and his kingdom first (referred to in the talk as "KFC") and to allow the church to be a support network rather than a place from which to run when problems arise.

The episode closes with an invitation to non-Christians to respond and an encouragement to believers to know their place, purpose and peace in the body of Christ, to persevere together, and to glory God in all circumstances.

 

Duration 36:05

August 23, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode Glenn Hitchcock, a visiting elder and social-work-trained speaker who led a Friday–Saturday parenting seminar and then taught the Bible class and sermon, walks listeners through a comprehensive, biblically grounded approach to family life. He opens with practical anecdotes and a memorable quote about sharing calm with children, then outlines six dynamic features of the Christian family: God as giver, the protective "bubble," scriptural boundaries, behavior and discipline, promotion (preparing children to leave and serve), and the byproducts of procreation and succession.

Glen emphasizes why Christians should never be ashamed of the gospel—its origin, operation, outreach, and outcome—and shows how the gospel both corrects sin and produces salvation across generations. He covers evangelism within the home and the church, the importance of parents as primary disciples (not outsourcing spiritual formation), and the role of family life in producing compatible, faithful candidates for marriage. Biblical references woven throughout include Romans 1:16, Matthew 5:16 & 6:33, 2 Timothy 2:2, Romans 10:17, Psalm 127, and Hebrews 4:12.

Listeners will hear practical, specific guidance: cultivate spiritual habits (cradle roll, family worship, prayer), model faithful behavior (be hearers and doers of the Word), prioritize the kingdom ("KFC — Kingdom-First Christians" vs. "BK — Have-It-Your-Way" families), practice stewardship of children, and actively disciple and evangelize both inside and outside the home. The message also addresses moral, social, economic, and spiritual benefits of Christian parenting, and the long-term goal of succession—raising children whose choices reflect the faith taught to them.

The episode closes with pastoral encouragement: a reminder that parenting is difficult but supported by the church body (the speaker’s "SWAT" network), an invitation to submit to godly counsel and Scripture, and a Q&A-style pastoral tone offering tangible next steps for listeners seeking help. Expect personal stories, humor, clear takeaways, scripture-rich argumentation, and recorded lessons from the seminar for deeper study.

 

Duration 41:44