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

"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

"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