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

"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

"Keeping The Main Thing the Main Thing" by Neal Pollard

August 31, 2025 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

Keeping The Main Thing the Main Thing 
Neal Pollard 
Introduction 
A. ______________ Have Higher and Lower ________________ 
B. Since Evangelism Isn't Optional... 
I. EVERY _____________ MUST BE SEEN IN LIGHT OF IT 
   A. The Bible ______________ in 3 Ways (Commands, ____________, And _____________) 
      1. All three make it imperative 
II. EVERY ______________ MUST LEAD TO IT 
   A. Look At The ___________ ___________ And See What They Were All About 
   B. Are We Letting ______________ Pass Us by Because Our __________ Aren't Open To                       
       Them (John 4:35)? 
III. EVERY ____________ MUST BE __________ TO IT 
  A. __________ Are About More Than __________; It's About __________ Resources 
  B. We Have A _______ Amount of Resources 
IV. EVERY _________ MUST ___________ IT 
  A. _____________ Must (Heb. 13:17; 1 Pet. 5:3) 
  B. ______________ Must (Eph. 4:11) 
  C. ______________ Must (1 Tim. 3:8-10) 
V. EVERY ___________ MUST __________ IT 
   A. There Are 8 Major Categories of Involvement: 
   B. 1 _____________ 3:5-9 Teaches: 
     1. ____________ functions are _______________ 
     2. ____________ function is _________________ 
     3. ___________ makes it ___________________ 
Conclusion 
A. God Doesn't Say, "I Know Your ____________" (He Says, "I Know Your ____________") 

 

Duration 35:25

"God's Expectations for Christians" Part 13 by Neal Pollard

August 31, 2025 - Sunday AM Bible Class

 

In this episode—a live class-style sermon with interactive participation —the speaker traces a persistent biblical theme: God always points his people toward “something better.” From Genesis through Revelation the episode examines how Scripture repeatedly entices believers to long for heaven, even amid suffering and exile.

Topics covered include Old Testament foreshadowing (Abraham’s promise, Joseph’s trials, the rainbow in Genesis, Israel’s deliverance from Egypt and the promised land), exile and restoration (Jeremiah and Daniel), and the elevation of hope in Jesus (John 4, John 14; Christ as the fulfillment of Messianic expectation). The class reflects on the cross—Psalm 22 and Hebrews 12—and shows how Jesus’ example and promises shape Christian longing.

The episode surveys New Testament teachings that make heaven practical and motivating: Colossians 3 and 1 John 3 on setting affections on things above, Thessalonians on the return of the Lord, and Revelation 21–22’s picture of a new heaven and new earth. It describes heaven as a place where all things are made new, the home of God, the gathering of the redeemed, and the final reward for faithful, enduring Christian living.

Practical application and key points: to long for heaven Christians must (1) understand what Scripture teaches about heaven (the newness, the presence of God, the reward), (2) anticipate it in hope, and (3) aim for it—by thinking about heaven, talking about it with others, and singing about it in worship. Expect Scripture references, pastoral exposition, personal illustrations, and clear, actionable challenges for how hope of heaven should shape daily living.

Who should listen: anyone wanting a biblically grounded encouragement to place eternal hope at the center of faith—students of Scripture, church small groups, and believers seeking practical ways to let heaven shape holiness, endurance, and evangelism.

 

Duration 47:02

"The Kings: Faithfulness and Failure in Israel and Judah" by Roger Johnson Part 8

July 30, 2025 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

 

This episode is a careful, pastoral study of King Manasseh (2 Chronicles 33; 2 Kings 21), placed in the sweep of Old Testament history from Genesis through the period of the kings. The speaker briefly reviews the Bible’s narrative arc—creation, the patriarchs, Joseph, the Exodus, conquest under Joshua, the era of the judges, and the demand for a human king—before focusing on the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah and the historical context for Manasseh’s reign.

We hear historical facts and textual detail: Manasseh was the 14th monarch of Judah, reigned 55 years (697–642 BC), began ruling as a youth (co-regent with his father Hezekiah), and is often judged the most wicked king of Judah. The episode catalogs his crimes—reversing Hezekiah’s reforms, restoring high places, crafting and installing idols in the temple, occult practices, and even child sacrifice—and mentions traditions (not in the Old Testament text) that link him to the violent death of the prophet Isaiah.

The episode then traces the consequences: Manasseh’s actions provoked God’s anger, Scripture records the invasion and exile that followed, and passages in Jeremiah and 2 Kings are cited showing how his sins defiled Jerusalem and contributed to later national judgment. The host contrasts 2 Kings (which omits Manasseh’s repentance) with 2 Chronicles (which records his humiliation, prayer, and restoration), reading 2 Chronicles 33:12–13 as evidence of a genuine, humble conversion.

Guests and contributors include brief comments and questions from parishioners and readers who help unpack parallel passages (Deuteronomy, Psalms) and theological implications. The speaker also draws on Proverbs, Hebrews, Matthew’s genealogy (which names Manasseh among Christ’s ancestors), and reflections from G. K. Chesterton to broaden the discussion.

Key takeaways and applications are emphasized: there is always hope for repentance even for grievous sin; God’s patience has limits and disobedience brings consequences; individual disobedience can endanger a community; our choices leave an influential legacy (for good or ill); and parents and leaders must persist in teaching righteousness. The host presses listeners to consider today’s “high places” (false worship, dishonesty, sexual immorality, substance abuse, insincere worship) and to pray for church elders and leaders who shepherd the flock.

The episode closes with pastoral counsel: don’t assume any sin is beyond God’s forgiveness, but do not presume on God’s mercy—respond in humility, prayer, and obedience. Listeners can expect clear biblical exposition, practical life lessons, Scripture references for further study (notably 2 Chronicles 33, 2 Kings 21, Jeremiah 15, Proverbs 6, Hebrews 1), and invitations to pray for James Jones and for spiritual leadership in the church.

 

Duration 42:05

Question and Answer with Hiram Kemp and Neal Pollard

August 24, 2025 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

Join Hiram and Neil for a thoughtful question-and-answer session tackling tough theological and practical questions from attendees. This episode covers whether God’s omniscience negates human free will and how Genesis 6:6’s language of God’s “regret” should be understood, exploring anthropomorphism and the difference between divine foreknowledge and divine causation.

The hosts discuss Jesus’ baptism (Luke 3:23) and why he was baptized around age thirty, explaining why his example does not set a required age for believer’s baptism today. They outline the biblical prerequisites for baptism—recognition of personal sin, faith and repentance, and an understanding of discipleship—while emphasizing maturity varies by individual rather than by a fixed age.

Hiram and Neil examine ways to help others see the Bible’s reliability, differentiating internal and external proofs such as scientific foreknowledge, archaeological and geographical confirmations, and predictive prophecy (including examples like Tyre and Cyrus). They encourage listeners to read Scripture for themselves and test its claims.

The conversation moves to spiritual dangers and superstition: whether people can still make deals with the devil or worship demons today, the biblical view of sorcery, and how such practices separate a person from God. The panel stresses caution about conjecture and staying within what Scripture clearly teaches.

Listeners also get clarity on phrases like “heaven and earth will pass away,” with explanation of how Jesus used that language in different contexts to emphasize the enduring truth of God’s word, and guidance on interpreting “heaven” in Scripture.

Finally, the hosts define worship from a New Testament perspective: intentional acts of showing worth to God done in spirit and truth. They outline five authorized expressions—preaching/teaching, giving, singing (congregational a cappella), prayer, and the Lord’s Supper (noting the Lord’s Supper’s unique first-day assembly practice)—and explain when Bible study or other gatherings constitute worship. Practical pastoral points on conscience, Romans 14 sensitivity, and how worship is not confined to a building conclude the episode.

 

Duration 47:26