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

"The Gospel of John" by Phil Hartnady - Part 3

September 21, 2025 - Sunday AM Bible Class

This episode walks through John 2 and the opening of John 3, unpacking the wedding at Cana and the first recorded sign of Jesus, plus the immediate aftermath in Jerusalem and the first encounter with Nicodemus. The speaker draws on historical detail and scripture to give listeners cultural context for first-century weddings, the process of grape harvesting and winemaking, and the Jewish purification vessels mentioned in the text.

Phil examines the Miracle at Cana in detail: Jesus turning water into wine, the six stone jars, and the master of the feast’s reaction. The episode highlights the theological and practical questions raised by the passage—especially whether the wine was intoxicating—bringing in commentary from Clark and David Jones and interaction with audience members who weigh in on whether the sign emphasizes taste, quality, or moral concerns about alcohol.

The teaching then moves to Jesus’ cleansing of the temple: the presence of animals for sacrifice, money changers, and the economic abuses associated with temple commerce. The speaker explains why John records a temple-cleansing early in Jesus’ ministry (noting John’s chronological approach) and emphasizes the symbolic and authoritative nature of Jesus’ actions.

The episode closes by introducing John 3 and the nighttime visit of Nicodemus. The lecturer explains the distinction Jesus makes between physical birth and spiritual rebirth—"born of water and the Spirit"—and stresses that Nicodemus’s confusion reveals a common misunderstanding of spiritual realities. Key takeaways include Jesus’ knowledge of hearts, the purpose of signs, and the centrality of spiritual rebirth for entering God’s kingdom.

Throughout the episode the presenter references scriptural cross-references, historical sources, and audience Q&A, and previews the next session on John 3:16. Listeners can expect thoughtful historical background, theological reflection, and practical applications for interpreting these foundational accounts.

Duration 45:51

"The Kings: Faithfulness and Failure in Israel and Judah" by David Pahman Part 10

August 13, 2025 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

 

In this episode the speaker examines the reign of King Ahaz of Judah (c. 735–715 BC), weaving biblical history, recent archaeological news, and pastoral application. The episode opens with a brief news item about a rare biblical seal with an ancient fingerprint found in debris near Jerusalem’s Temple Mount (reported in early August), then moves into a detailed study of Ahaz using primary passages: 2 Kings 16, 2 Chronicles 28, and key sections of Isaiah (especially chapters 7–8), with contextual mentions of Micah. A recorded illustrative clip from Dan Winkler is played to help listeners picture Ahaz’s geopolitical choices.

The host summarizes Ahaz’s life and reign: he became king at twenty, reigned sixteen years, followed the idolatrous practices of Israel, made metal images for the Baals, sacrificed his sons, removed treasures from the temple to buy Assyrian support, and copied foreign altars. Isaiah’s direct confrontation with Ahaz is highlighted (Isaiah 7:3–12), including God’s offer of a sign and Ahaz’s refusal—choosing Assyria over trust in God. The narrative also covers how Israel and Syria attacked Judah, how captives were taken and later released, and how Assyrian intervention ultimately afflicted Judah rather than securing lasting protection.

Key themes and takeaways are emphasized for contemporary listeners: the dangers and consequences of compromising moral and spiritual values—especially in moments of weakness; the importance of heeding God’s counsel even when fear seems rational; the reality that children do not always follow their parents’ faith; and the practical counsel to draw closer to God during crises rather than pull away. The episode stresses that short-term political or material fixes (like Ahaz’s deal with Assyria) can cost far more in the long run.

Listeners can expect historical background, scripture-based exegesis, pastoral application, and practical lessons for faithfulness under pressure. The episode references the Fox News report on the Temple Mount seal; the biblical texts listed above and includes the Dan Winkler illustrative clip to connect ancient decisions to modern dilemmas.

 

Duration 37:17

"Better Living" by Neal Pollard

September 14, 2025 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

BETTER LIVING (Genesis 4) 
Neal Pollard 
Introduction 
People Are Always _______________ What Is _________________ 
 
B. In Genesis 4, We Have A ___________ Between Two ______________ 
 
I. BETTER LIVING IS NOT DETERMINED BY ___________________ (1-2) 
   A. To God, It’s Not a Matter of Being _________________, But of Being _____________ Again 
 
II. BETTER LIVING IS NOT DETERMINED BY ______________ (2) 
   A. Some ______________ Make It ____________ For Proper Living 
 
   B. Other _____________ Promote _______________ 
 
III. BETTER LIVING IS DETERMINED BY ______________ (3-4) 
   A. Not All _____________ Is _____________ 
 
   B. The ____________ and ____________ ____________ and _____________ Together  
 
IV. BETTER LIVING IS DETERMINED BY ____________ (5-7) 
   A. He Was Very ____________ 
 
 V. BETTER LIVING IS DETERMINED BY ___________ (8-16) 
   A. ____________ Have ________________ (Gal. 6:7-9) 
Conclusion  
A. We Get To _______________ What Kind of Life We _______________ To Live

 

Duration 26:01

"When Faith Is Targeted" by Neal Pollard

September 14, 2025 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

When Faith Is Targeted

• We see the power of a voice
• Sometimes people don't want to hear truth
• Truth is absolute
• It's OK to have feelings, but don't let that be your guide
• Strive to avoid
  • Sin
  • Deceit
  • Slander
  • Threats
  • Worry
• Our response to this act will make an eternal difference

 

Duration 31:33

"The Gospel of John" by Phil Hartnady - Part 2

September 14, 2025 - Sunday AM Bible Class

 

In this episode we begin a focused study on the Gospel of John. The host opens with an apology for a classroom mix-up and then lays out why John’s account is unique: its emphasis on the deity of Christ, its faith-building purpose, and its role as a spiritual, testimonial gospel written to a broad audience as the church spread through the Roman world. This introduction explains John’s key verses (John 20:30–31 and John 21), his use of Passover to establish timeline, and how John complements the other gospels—Matthew (kingship), Mark (service), Luke (humanity), and John (heavenly insight).

Topics covered include the characteristics of John’s Gospel (personal encounters and multitudes, simple yet profound Greek, and the fatherhood of God), the Logos concept in chapter 1, and five great truths distilled from John 1:1. The episode highlights Jesus’ unique miraculous insight—examples include Nathanael under the fig tree, the woman at the well, the healed blind man, and Lazarus raised after four days—showing how these signs validate Christ as the Son of God. The host outlines John’s record of eight key signs and many exclusive teachings: Nicodemus and the new birth, the woman of Samaria, the Good Shepherd, the Farewell Discourses (chs. 14–16), and the intercessory prayer (ch. 17).

Episode guests Barrett and Jeremy are introduced as fellow teachers who will handle other sections of John’s 21 chapters. Practical application threads the talk: faith comes by hearing the Word, miracles are written so people might believe, and Christians are urged to respond to persecution and evil with prayer, compassion, and steadfast witness. The host also previews the next session on miracles, especially the wedding at Cana, and closes with pastoral encouragement to live out the truths of John in difficult times.

 

Duration 42:42

"The Kings: Faithfulness and Failure in Israel and Judah" by Landon Bryant Part 9

August 6, 2025 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

 

In this episode, Landon Bryant leads a thoughtful study of King Solomon’s legacy—his accomplishments, shortcomings, and lasting lessons for believers. Beginning with a modern analogy to illustrate how even celebrated leaders can fall short, Landon frames Solomon within Deuteronomy 17’s expectations for a king and highlights where Solomon’s reign diverged from those commands: accumulation of wealth, acquisition of many wives, political compromises, and gradual spiritual decline.

The episode compares the tabernacle and Solomon’s temple, noting differences in authorship, purpose, and narrative emphasis: the tabernacle’s plans come directly from God and emphasize God’s initiative, while the temple’s construction centers more on the king’s achievements. Landon also discusses the timeline and irony that the temple took seven years to build while Solomon’s own palace took thirteen years.

Listeners are guided through Solomon’s story arc: God’s gift of wisdom, Solomon’s early judicial and diplomatic successes, his architectural and economic accomplishments, and his eventual compromise that led to national division after his death. Key biblical cross-references—from Deuteronomy, 1–2 Chronicles, 1 Kings, and New Testament passages (Matthew and Mark)—are used to show both Solomon’s greatness and how he points forward to Jesus, who surpasses Solomon in wisdom and significance.

The episode closes with practical takeaways: wisdom without faithful obedience is insufficient; compromise has cumulative dangers; and the most important legacy is one’s relationship with Christ. Landon encourages listeners to reflect on what would be written on their own “trading card” and reminds them that, ultimately, what matters in eternity is whether they have given their life to Jesus. Expect Scripture-driven reflection, historical context, and pastoral application designed to inspire humility and faithfulness.

 

Duration 36:06

"What the Book of Revelation Teaches Us About Jesus" by Hiram Kemp

September 7, 2025 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

What the Book of Revelation Teaches Us About Jesus - (Revelation 1:1-3) 
Hiram Kemp

• Jesus is Sovreign Over Everything - (Revelation 1:8, 1:18)
• Jesus Sees and Knows All - (Revelation 2:2, 2:9, 2:13, 2:19, 3:1, 3:8, 3:15)
• Jesus is Worthy of All Worship - (Revelation 5:9-14)
• Jesus Allows His People to Stand - (Revelation 6:15-17, 7:9-14)
• Jesus is Victorious Over All Evil - (Revelation 19:11-21)
• Jesus Makes All Things New - (Revelation 21:5)
• Jesus is Coming with a Reward - (Revelation 22:12-13)

Duration 36:49

"How to Get Close to God" by Hiram Kemp

September 7, 2025 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

How to Get Close to God 
Hiram Kemp 
 
I. Fight _______________ with all your _______________ (James 4:7-8) 
 
II. _________________ ________________ (Psalm 33:1, 73:28) 
 
III. Become a ______________ (Acts 2:38; Galatians 3:26-27) 
 
IV. _____________ _____________ with God's ____________ (Hebrews 10:22-25) 
 
V. _________________ Your Appetite ____________________ (Psalm 42:1-2, 63:1) 
 
VI. _________________ an Eternal ________________ (Psalm 23:4; Revelation 14:13) 
 
VII. _____________ What He _______________ (1 John 2:3-5)

 

Duration 35:34

"The Gospel of John" by Phil Hartnady - Part 1

September 7, 2025 - Sunday AM Bible Class

 

In this episode the Phil opens a 13-week study of the Gospel of John, outlining the scope and themes listeners can expect and offering practical evangelistic tips for starting conversations about Christ. The session introduces the teaching team—Phil Hartnady, with Jeremy Waddell and Barrett Hammer sharing teaching responsibilities across the series—and references earlier ministry perspectives from Hiram and Neil. Phil explains the rhythm of the class and previews who will lead subsequent portions.

The talk begins with short, actionable advice for evangelism and a memorable framing comparison: "the Old Testament is the New Testament concealed," while the New Testament is the Old Testament revealed. The host then surveys the structure of the New Testament—four gospel accounts (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John), Acts, the epistles (Romans–Jude), and Revelation—summarizing the emphasis and audience of each gospel: Matthew to the Jews, Mark the action-oriented account, Luke the Gentile physician’s perspective, and John written to the world to demonstrate Christ’s unique divine identity.

Most of the episode focuses on John’s opening chapter and major themes: authorship (John son of Zebedee), purpose (to inspire belief—John 20:30–31), and Christ's divinity ("In the beginning was the Word..."). Phil highlights John’s characterization of Jesus as Logos and emphasizes key motifs—"I AM" sayings, the Lamb of God, and the many signs and miracles that prove Jesus’ authority over time, space, matter, disease, and death (with chapter/verse references and examples such as changing water to wine, healing at a distance, the blind man born blind, walking on water, and raising Lazarus).

The episode also unfolds John the Baptist’s witness, the calling of early disciples (Andrew, Peter, Philip, Nathanael), and the repeated invitation phrase "come and see." Phil stresses John’s evangelistic urgency—how the book builds faith by bearing witness to Jesus’ identity—and closes with a pastoral challenge: while becoming a Christian costs nothing because the price is paid, following Christ costs everything in terms of surrender of self and pride.

Listeners can expect a mix of lecture-style exposition (reflecting the host’s college teaching background), question-and-answer interaction, theological insights about Christ’s nature, and practical tools for sharing the gospel. This episode sets the stage for a deep, faith-building study of John and gives clear signposts for what will be explored in later weeks.

 

Duration 44:20

"Timothy: A Courageous & Capable Servant" by Hiram Kemp

August 31, 2025 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

Timothy: A Courageous & Capable Servant

Hiram Kemp 

• Embraced his spiritual heritage - (Acts 16:1-2; 2 Timoth 1:5; 3:15)
• Gave His Early Years to God - (Acts 16:3; 1 Timothy 4:12)
• Selfless and Compassionate - (Phillipians 2:19-23)
• Dependable and Faithful - (1 Thessalonians 3:2; 1 Timothy 4:13-16)
• Overcame His Insecurities - (2 Timothy 1:7)
  • Romans 8:1
  • 1 Peter 2:9
  • Isaiah 41:10
  • Ephesians 2:10
  • 2 Corinthians 12:9
  • 2 Timothy 1:7
• Loyal to the End - (2 Timothy 1:3-4)

Duration 37:16