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

"Words of Life" by Neal Pollard - Part 2

March 18, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

Join this in-depth teaching through 1 Peter chapter 1 as Neal reads the opening verses and unfolds three central "words of life"—hope, holiness, and love—that sustain believers facing persecution and cultural opposition. The episode begins with a careful reading of verses 1–12 and explains Peter’s opening greeting, highlighting how he addresses his audience as "aliens" or "pilgrims," chosen and set apart by God through the Spirit. Neal unpacks Peter’s emphases: believers are born again to a living hope rooted in the resurrection of Jesus, sprinkled with His blood, kept by God’s power, and destined for an imperishable inheritance.

Topics covered include the historical context (Nero’s growing persecution in the mid-60s AD), the mixed Jewish and Gentile makeup of the early churches in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, and how Peter’s identity as "Peter" and "apostle" establishes his authority. The speaker outlines the five imperatives of 1 Peter—fix your hope, be holy, conduct yourselves in fear, love one another fervently from the heart, and crave the sincere milk of the Word—and explains how these commands form a practical framework for living with hope amid trials. Practical applications for contemporary believers are offered: living as strangers in the world, pursuing holiness in heart and conduct, relying on community, and returning continually to Scripture.

The teaching contrasts the world’s pursuit of temporal stability with the Christian’s hope anchored in Christ’s resurrection and second coming, and encourages listeners to be bold, dedicated witnesses motivated by conviction. Expect discussion of texts within 1 Peter that connect hope to the resurrection (e.g., 1:3, 1:13, 1:21; 3:15–18) and an invitation to adopt Peter’s call to steadfast, loving, scripture-saturated discipleship. This episode is ideal for listeners seeking biblical encouragement to endure trials, deepen their identity in Christ, and live out the practical commands Peter gives to the early church.

 

Duration 36:02

" How to Age Well as a Christian" by Hiram Kemp

March 22, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

In this episode Hiram unpacks six foundational but often-missed truths about the character of God, weaving Scripture, real-life anecdotes, and pastoral counsel. Beginning with a humorous opening about a missed celebrity encounter, he moves quickly to the heart of the sermon: the need-to-know God as he truly is, not as we imagine him.

Hiram explores the tension between God’s love and his holiness, showing from Romans, Exodus, and the prophets that God is both tender and fearsome—merciful yet just. He emphasizes that an accurate view of God requires holding these attributes in balance so we neither treat God as permissive nor view him only as wrathful.

The episode also addresses common misconceptions: God does not need us (Acts 17, Psalm 50), yet he chooses and desires relationship with us (John 15). Hiram explains God’s nearness—"He’s not far from any one of us"—and how that closeness should shape our repentance and daily living. He illustrates how God uses limited, imperfect people (1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians) to display his power and glory, and discusses the idea that God will sometimes give people over to their chosen consequences (Romans 1) when they persistently reject truth.

Finally, the sermon brings hope: God forgives. Hiram highlights passages that promise cleansing and full pardon for those who repent and believe (1 John, Acts, Psalm 103), urging listeners not to delay coming to God because of fear or shame. The message concludes with an invitation to respond, a worship moment led by Jer, and practical encouragement for anyone seeking prayer, baptism, or forgiveness.

What to expect: Scripture-rich teaching, pastoral stories, clear gospel invitations, and practical application—suitable for those curious about the Christian faith and for believers wanting a clearer, balanced vision of God’s justice, mercy, and presence.

 

Handout:

How to Age Well as a Christian  
Hiram Kemp 
 
1. Leave ____________ Mistakes ____________ (Psalm 25:7) 
 
2. ______________ the Next _____________ (Psalm 71:17-18) 
 
3.  ____________ Your Age Without __________ (Proverbs 16:31, 20:29) 
 
4.  ____________ to Retire from ______________  (Psalm 92:12-15) 
 
5. Look ____________ with Great _____________ (2 Corinthians 4:16-5:1)

 

 

Duration 35:07

"Common Sins and Struggles" by Joey Morgan - Part 3

March 22, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

This episode is a teaching-style class that examines anger as a common human struggle from a Christian perspective. Following a recent series on laziness, the speaker leads an interactive discussion with members of the congregation about what anger is, how it is triggered, and why it can quickly move from a natural emotion to sinful behavior.

The episode defines anger using every day and dictionary definitions, then breaks down several types of anger: quick temper, settled or deliberate (righteous indignation), dispositional anger (chronic irritability), and passive-aggressive resentment. Joey emphasizes that anger itself is an emotion and not always sinful but explores how it often becomes destructive when poorly managed.

Two biblical case studies anchor the lesson. First, Genesis 4 (Cain and Abel) shows how rejection and jealousy led Cain’s anger to fester into hatred and ultimately murder. Second, Numbers 20 (Moses at Meribah) illustrates how prolonged frustration and impatience caused Moses to disobey God—striking the rock instead of speaking to it—and suffer consequences, losing the right to enter the Promised Land.

The class also contrasts human anger with God’s anger, noting that God’s wrath is righteous and informed by perfect knowledge, while human rage is limited and often vengeful. The speaker stresses that Christians are not judges or avengers and should avoid acting on partial information or assumed motives.

Practical guidance is offered throughout: slow down, give yourself time before reacting (count to ten, write unsent emails), take the issue to prayer, avoid letting anger churn into bitterness, and seek forgiveness and reconciliation. Scriptural advice is referenced, including the idea not to let the sun go down on your anger and the value of being slow to anger and quick to forgive.

The episode closes with audience interaction, real-life examples, and a reminder of the next lesson topic—pride—coming next Sunday.

 

Duration 42:39

"Things Most People Don’t Know About God" by Hiram Kemp

March 22, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

In this sermon-style episode, speaker Hiram explores the mismatch between common ideas of God, and the portrait Scripture gives us. Drawing on passages from Isaiah, Romans, Exodus, Acts, Hebrews, Psalms and more, Hiram lays out six key truths most people miss about God and explains why they matter for everyday faith.

First, Hiram shows that God is both deeply loving and genuinely fearsome: not a one-dimensional kindness nor an unrelenting judge, but a holy God who balances mercy with seriousness (Romans 11; Exodus 34; Nahum 1).

Second, the sermon emphasizes that God does not need us — He is self-sufficient and triune — yet He freely chooses us out of love (Acts 17; John 15; Zephaniah 3). Hiram unpacks how this truth reshapes worship, service and our motives.

Third, Hiram reminds listeners that God is closer than we often think: omnipresent, intimately involved, and near to the brokenhearted (Acts 17; Psalm 139; Hebrews 4). This nearness is presented as both comfort and accountability.

Fourth and fifth, the talk confronts our assumptions about usefulness and consequence: God uses weak and limited people so His power is displayed (1 Corinthians; 2 Corinthians), and He will, at times, give people over to the consequences of their choices (Romans 1; Genesis). These sober truths are balanced with hope.

Finally, Hiram affirms the Bible’s promise of forgiveness — God delights to forgive when we repent (1 John 1; Acts 2; Psalm 103) — and urges listeners not to let fear or shame keep them from confessing and receiving mercy.

The episode mixes theological depth with practical application, scriptural cross-references, contemporary illustrations (including a modern AI analogy), and a call to respond for repentance, baptism and community support. This is a focused, pastoral message intended to correct mistaken images of God and invite listeners to know Him rightly.

 

Handout: 

Things Most People Don’t Know About God 
Hiram Kemp 
 
1. God is Both _______________ & _______________  (Romans 11:22)  
 
 
2. God ______________ Not Need ________________ (Acts 17:24-25) 
 
 
3. God is _______________ Than We _______________  (Acts 17:27-28)  
 
 
4. God ______________ Weak _______________ (1 Corinthians 1:26-29)  
 
 
5. God Will __________ You Up to _________ (Romans 1:24, 1:26, 1:28) 
 
 
6. _______________ Will ________________ (Isaiah 1:18) 

 

Duration 30:42

"Words of Life" by Neal Pollard - Part 1

March 11, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

 

In this episode Neal and Hiram introduce this quarter’s two parallel tracks: a six-week look at 1 Peter (the “words of life”) and leadership lessons from 2 Samuel and Nehemiah, plus upcoming sessions on 1–3 John. The conversation explains how the pulpit and classroom teaching will be shared and what listeners should expect in the coming weeks.

The main portion of the episode focuses on Peter—his names and background (Simon/Cephas/Petros, son of Jonah), his trade as a fisherman, family life, temperament, education, and hometowns (Bethsaida and Capernaum). Neal traces Peter’s development from an impulsive, outspoken disciple who both succeeds and fails dramatically to a restored leader shaped by Jesus’ teaching and the Spirit.

Key Gospel episodes are highlighted to show Peter’s character and growth: Peter’s confession that Jesus has the “words of life,” walking on water, the miraculous catches of fish, cutting off Malchus’ ear, his threefold denial and restoration, presence at the Transfiguration, and his role in Pentecost and the early church. The host emphasizes Peter’s mix of bold action, humility, failure, and repentance as an encouragement to listeners who see themselves in him.

Attention is given to Peter’s leadership role in the early church (leading the selection of the twelfth apostle, preaching at Pentecost, miracles, confronting authorities, and missions to Jews and Gentiles), and to the likely historical context of his letters—writing against a backdrop of growing persecution (notably Nero’s Rome) and the need to encourage believers facing suffering.

The episode previews the purposes and major themes of Peter’s letters: 1 Peter as pastoral encouragement for suffering Christians (words like suffering, glory, grace, faith, and calling) and 2 Peter as a warning against false teachers and an exhortation to knowledge, godliness, and readiness for the Day of the Lord. The host connects Peter’s eyewitness experiences with Jesus to the authority and pastoral tone of his epistles and invites listeners to dive into the text beginning next Wednesday.

Duration 46:36

"What the Bible Teaches About Demons" by Hiram Kemp

March 15, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

In this episode, we trace the long cultural fascination with demon possession—from The Exorcist and modern Hollywood hits to early Christian testimony—and then dive into a clear, biblical crash course on demons: their reality, origins, operations, limitations, and ultimate defeat. The host examines historical perspectives (Justin Martyr, Tertullian), explores scriptural references across Deuteronomy, the Psalms, the Gospels, Acts, Paul’s epistles, and Revelation, and contrasts popular sensationalism with sober biblical teaching.

Topics covered include the reality of demons and how the Bible presents them, competing theories about their origin (including discussions of Genesis 6 and the Nephilim), the ways demons operate—through deception, possession/oppression, and idolatry—and Jesus’s distinctive authority over them during his earthly ministry. The episode reviews New Testament examples of demonic encounters, the apostles’ ministry of deliverance, and how demonic activity differs today (more mental and doctrinal influence than physical possession). It also outlines the limitations of demonic power, practical spiritual defenses (the armor of God, prayer, faith), and the Christian assurance of final victory over darkness.

The episode features scriptural analysis (Ephesians, Colossians, 1 Peter, 1 Timothy, James, Revelation) and pastoral application: how Christians should avoid extremes of skepticism or sensationalism, recognize false teachings and occult practices as demonic influence, and rely on Christ’s supremacy and the Holy Spirit’s power. Listeners can expect a balanced, Bible-centered perspective aimed at informing faith, strengthening spiritual discernment, and offering hope in Christ’s ultimate triumph over evil.

 

Handout:

What the Bible Teaches About Demons— Hiram Kemp 
 
1. The _________________ of _________________ (Mark 5:9) 
 
2. The _________________ of _________________ (Jude 6) 
 
3. The _________________ of ________________ (1 Timothy 4:1) 
 
4. ________________ during the ________________ of Jesus (Mark 1:27) 
 
5. The _______________ of _________________ (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9) 
 
6. The ________________ of __________________ today (Ephesians 6:11-13) 
 
7. The _________________ defeat of ________________ (1 John 3:8)

 

Duration 34:01

"How to Be Friends" by Hiram Kemp and Neal Pollard

March 15, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

In this episode we confront what the U.S. Surgeon General calls an epidemic—not of disease but of loneliness—and trace its devastating physical and spiritual effects. Using vivid contemporary examples (including a viral McDonald’s CEO moment) and classic cultural references, the speaker frames loneliness as a public-health crisis and explains why the Bible insists companionship is essential: "It is not good for man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18).

The conversation digs into Scripture to explain what true, biblical friendship looks like. Drawing on passages from Genesis, Leviticus, Matthew, John, Paul, James, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and many others, the episode lays out three core practices for Christian friendship: 1) Love one another sacrificially (love, not mere liking), 2) Lead one another toward Jesus (evangelism and spiritual accountability), and 3) Do life together (mutual sharpening, service, confession and rejoicing).

Listeners will hear memorable biblical examples—Jonathan and David, Jesus and his disciples, Paul and Onesimus, Abraham, Moses—and contemporary vignettes like Bride of Frankenstein’s blind hermit and Tad Lincoln’s access to the president to illustrate how friendship meets deep human needs. The speaker also cautions against two modern errors: withdrawing from others and indiscriminately accepting every relationship without biblical standards.

The episode then turns inward to our relationship with God, exploring what it means to be God’s friend. Practical steps are explained: be transparent with God, spend time with Him (the episode cites research on hours required to deepen relationships to underline the need for investment), and share God’s values—faith, obedience, truth, mercy and humility. Key texts cited include John 15, Hebrews, Psalms, and the lives of Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses.

Guests and people referenced in this episode include Neil Aubrey, Gregory Gwynn, Scotty Toodle, Jason Moon, Keith Kasarjan, Joe Ketchum, Mike Inge, Johnson Kale, Michael Height, Wes Autry, Mike Ripperton and Dean Murphy, along with numerous biblical figures and cultural examples woven throughout the message.

Key takeaways: loneliness is dangerous but biblical friendship is both a remedy and a calling; friendship must be rooted in love, aimed at drawing others to Christ, and expressed by doing life together; and the greatest friendship is with God—cultivated through honesty, time, and shared values. The episode closes with a pastoral challenge: put doctrine into practice, move beyond surface-level relationships, and respond to Jesus’ invitation to be friends with Him.

Handout:

How to Be Friends with Each Other— Hiram Kemp (part 1) 
 
1. ________________ each other (Leviticus 19:18) 
 
2. ________________ each other (John 1:40-41) 
 
3. ________________ Together (Proverbs 27:17) 
 
HOW TO BE FRIENDS WITH GOD— Neal Pollard (part 2) 
 
I. BE ____________________________ WITH HIM 
 
II. SPEND ______________ WITH _______________ 
 
III. HAVE _________________ __________________ 
 
   A. Think About What God __________________ 
 
Conclusion 
 
A. It Is ________ To Be ________ With God! 

 

Duration 39:09

"Common Sins and Struggles" by Joey Morgan - Part 2

March 15, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode of the class on "Common Sins and Struggles," Joey and class participants tackle the first struggle of the quarter: laziness. The session contrasts the world’s definition of laziness with the Bible’s view, explores spiritual versus physical laziness, and uses a variety of Scripture passages—Proverbs 6, 10, 12, 13, 26, 2 Peter 3, Colossians 3, and 1 John 1—to show why laziness is dangerous and how it undermines purpose and stewardship.

The conversation includes questions and comments from class members and personal examples—like a contractor’s need to stay hands-on and a failed gardening attempt—to illustrate how laziness stacks up and becomes contagious. Key scriptural themes are examined: the sluggard who is "wiser in his own eyes," the habit of making excuses, the ant’s example of preparation, and the parable of the talents. Joey emphasizes how laziness leads to physical and spiritual poverty, shame, loss of influence, indebtedness, and increased susceptibility to temptation.

The episode also offers practical steps for overcoming laziness: admit the problem, repent, change mindset from self-centeredness to service for God, seek accountability in the church family, reframe who and what you work for, and remember the eternal significance of faithful effort. Listeners are encouraged to replace excuses with small, consistent acts of service done "heartily as unto the Lord."

The class wraps up by reminding listeners that overcoming laziness is an ongoing process, rooted in humility and accountability, and previews the next session on anger. This episode is both a candid and biblically grounded call to wake from spiritual slumber and live with purpose.

 

Duration 41:56

"Deuteronomy" by Andy Wright Part 11

March 4, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

In this closing lecture of the Deuteronomy series, Andy explores Deuteronomy chapters 33–34: Moses’ final blessings of the tribes, his ascent of Mount Nebo, and his death. The episode compares Moses’ tribal blessings with Jacob’s earlier blessings in Genesis, tracks differences in order and emphasis, and highlights why Simeon is omitted while Levi is transformed from a curse into priestly service. Guests: none — this episode is a class lecture led by the instructor.

Topics covered include the sequence and content of each tribal blessing (Reuben, Judah, Levi, Benjamin, Joseph/Ephraim and Manasseh, Zebulun, Issachar, Gad, Dan, Naphtali, Asher), the literary and theological parallels with Jacob’s blessings, animal imagery and metaphors used for the tribes, Joseph’s extraordinary prosperity, Judah’s messianic associations, and archaeological and census evidence that helps explain Simeon’s diminishment and assimilation into Judah.

Key points and interpretations discussed: Moses’ blessings often echo Jacob but also reshape tribal destinies (Levi’s scattering becomes a sacred inheritance); Simeon’s omission illustrates consequences and God’s sovereignty; Benjamin and Joseph receive special protections and abundance; Moses obediently climbs Mount Nebo, views the Promised Land, and dies as a faithful servant; and Jude’s later reference to Michael disputing with the devil over Moses’ body is examined with plausible explanations (for example, preventing idolatry of his grave).

Listeners can expect close textual reading, comparative analysis between Genesis and Deuteronomy, theological reflection on leadership and legacy, and practical takeaways about obedience, hope, and God’s faithfulness to Israel’s future. The episode includes Q&A moments from the class and brief archaeological and New Testament references that illuminate the text’s historical and devotional dimensions.

Duration 33:52

"What the Bible Really Says About Angels" by Hiram Kemp

March 8, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

In this sermon-style episode Hiram walks listeners through a biblical study of angels, correcting common cultural myths and explaining what Scripture actually teaches. The message covers how popular culture has shaped false images of angels and contrasts that with biblical descriptions and roles found across both Old and New Testaments.

The episode is structured around six key teachings: (1) angels are God’s messengers and servants, (2) their work in the past (judgment, protection, and revelation), (3) their present ministry (rejoicing at repentance, escorting the departed, and ministering to believers), (4) their role in the future (accompanying Christ at his return and participating in final judgment), (5) angels in the life and identity of Jesus (with emphasis that Christ is superior to angels), and (6) practical lessons for Christians (the reality of a spiritual world, angels’ interest in our salvation, and the depth of God’s love for humanity).

Hiram invites listeners to respond to the gospel with repentance and faith. The teaching references many Scripture passages (Genesis, Psalms, Isaiah, Daniel, Luke, Matthew, Hebrews, Revelation and others) to support each point.

Key takeaways include: angels are created servants who worship God and do not deserve worship themselves; they are innumerable and powerful yet obedient to God’s will; they actively rejoice when people repent and minister to God’s people today; they will play a visible role at Christ’s return; and above all, God loved humanity enough to send his Son rather than angels to accomplish salvation.

Listeners can expect a thoughtful, Scripture-focused exploration aimed at deepening understanding and encouraging faith. The episode closes by extending an invitation to repent or recommit, reminding listeners that heaven rejoices when people turn to God.

 

Handout:

What the Bible Says About Angels (Hebrews 1:13-14)— Hiram Kemp 
 
1. Angels: God's ___________________ & ___________________ (Revelation 22:8-9) 
 
2. Work of ____________________ in the _____________________ (Psalm 103:20-21) 
 
3. Work of ____________________ in the ___________________ (Luke 15:10, Hebrews 1:14) 
 
4. Work of _________________ in the ____________________ (Matthew 16:27, 25:31-32) 
 
5. ______________________ in the life of _______________________ (Hebrews 1:5-6) 
 
6. What _____________________ Teach _______________________ (1 Peter 1:12)

 

Duration 33:42