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

"How to Achive Peace When You're in Pieces" by Neal Pollard

March 1, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

 

This episode presents a heartfelt sermon delivered in the wake of recent global events and the everyday pressures that overwhelm many of us. The speaker reflects on how sudden news and travel disruptions affected their congregation and uses that moment to connect contemporary stressors with timeless biblical wisdom.

The message surveys research from organizations like the American Psychological Association, Gallup, and the CDC to name the major drivers of anxiety today — economic pressures (job insecurity, rising costs, housing), mental health challenges, doomscrolling and information overload, work burnout, health concerns, and social and political polarization — and describes how these forces stack together to create constant, draining stress.

Turning to Scripture, the sermon lifts up Paul’s example and key passages (including 2 Corinthians 4 and Philippians 4:4–9) to offer a practical, faith-centered strategy for peace when life feels fragmented. The core prescription Paul gives is unpacked into a memorable sequence: rejoice in the Lord, cultivate a gentle spirit, refuse to be anxious, practice prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, and deliberately meditate on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely and praiseworthy.

Neal explains each step with concrete illustrations — how joy is rooted in Christ and Christian fellowship, how gentleness reflects Christlike humility even under provocation, and how the ‘‘war with worry’’ is fought through prayer, perspective, and prioritizing God’s kingdom. The sermon also warns against dwelling on bitterness, unworthy thoughts, and online outrage, and encourages viewers to replace those patterns with gratitude, service, and Christlike action.

Practical takeaways include modeling Christlike behavior, finding mentors and community for accountability, serving others, turning anxieties into prayers of thanksgiving, and putting faith into daily practice so the peace of God can guard hearts and minds. The message closes with an invitation to respond — whether that means renewing faith, seeking support from the congregation, or committing to apply Paul’s strategy in ordinary life.

Listeners can expect a blend of cultural diagnosis, biblical exposition, pastoral encouragement, and concrete steps to cultivate lasting peace amid personal and global turmoil.

 

Handout:

 HOW TO ACHIEVE PEACE WHEN YOU'RE IN PIECES  
(Philippians 4:4-9) 
Neal Pollard  
 
I. FIND _________________ IN EVERY ____________________ (4) 
 
II. CULTIVATE A ________________ _______________ (5) 
 
III. GO TO __________________ WITH _________________ (6-7) 
 
IV. ____________________ UNWORTHY ____________________ (8) 
 
V. PUT YOUR ____________________ INTO __________________ (9)

 

Duration 37:19

"How to Receive Eternal Life" by Hiram Kemp

March 1, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

In this episode Hiram examines the question posed to Jesus by the rich young ruler — "What good thing must I do to inherit eternal life?" — and unfolds five biblical truths from Matthew 19:16–30 that answer how anyone can receive eternal life. The message opens with a contemporary case study about Blueprint, the anti-aging company and Kate Tolo (with founder/partner Brian Johnson mentioned), to contrast modern attempts to "defeat death" through science with the Bible’s promise of life through Christ.

Topics covered include: recognizing Jesus’s true identity as the source of eternal life; relying on the right standard (grace through Christ rather than one’s own works); identifying and removing stumbling blocks that keep us from full trust (illustrated by the rich young ruler’s attachment to wealth); the truth that God can save anybody; and remembering the eternal reward promised to those who follow Jesus. The sermon weaves Scripture citations from both Old and New Testaments and uses cultural illustrations (e.g., Joshua Bell’s subway violin story and the 2,000‑year Masada date palm seeds) to highlight how people miss or receive true life.

Guests and mentions: Kate Tolo and Brian Johnson are discussed as part of the Blueprint example. Hiram quotes many passages (Matthew 19; John 14; 1 John 5; Romans; Acts; and others) and applies them pastorally to both non‑Christians and believers—calling non‑Christians to repent, believe, and be baptized, and encouraging Christians to recommit to Christ whole‑heartedly.

Key takeaways: eternal life is given through Jesus (not earned by behavior or technology); true faith requires recognizing Christ’s authority, relying on his righteousness, letting go of idols or attachments, trusting that God can save even the hardest cases, and holding fast to the promised inheritance. The episode closes with a call to respond trust Christ, turn from sin, and receive the life he offers now and for eternity.

 

Duration 31:25

"A Study of 2 Corinthians" by Neal Pollard - Part 12

March 1, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

In this episode Neal walks verse-by-verse through 2 Corinthians 11–13, unpacking Paul’s threefold defense of his apostleship and the pastoral heart behind his words to the Corinthian church. Topics covered include Paul’s strategic style and cycles of argument, his defense by pedigree (Jewish heritage and credentials), a catalog of physical perils and sacrifices suffered for the gospel, and the mental and emotional pressures of caring for multiple congregations. The episode also examines Paul’s revelations—being caught up to the third heaven and hearing inexpressible words—and how those revelations validate his ministry. A major focus is Paul’s “thorn in the flesh”: its humbling, satanic purpose to prevent conceit, and the lesson that weakness can be the arena of God’s strength. Neal connects these ancient rhythms to modern application for leaders and laypeople, stressing that pedigree, education, or prominence do not guarantee trustworthiness, and that trials and providence often reveal God’s work in hindsight. The episode closes with Paul’s pastoral appeals in chapter 13—test yourselves, do what is right, be complete and spiritually healthy—and urges listeners to remain faithful, accountable, and hopeful despite suffering and criticism. Scripture references and links to related passages (Acts, Galatians, Philippians, James, and 1 Peter) are woven through the teaching to help listeners study further.

 

Duration 44:44

"Deuteronomy" by Andy Wright Part 9

February 18, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

This episode is a seminar-style exploration of the theme of "choice" in the book of Deuteronomy. The instructor walks through every occurrence of the verb "choose/chooses" in the book, showing how the word clusters around a handful of theological and practical topics. Listeners can expect close readings of key passages, historical context, and practical application for believers today.

Topics covered include: God’s sovereign choice of the place where he will "put his name" (the place of worship) and the holiness and regulations that surround it; Moses’ instruction that the people choose wise, understanding leaders; God’s choosing of Israel by love and promise (not merit); the standards and accountability prescribed for an Israelite king; protections for runaway slaves and what that reveals about God’s concern for the vulnerable; and the climactic summons in Deuteronomy 30 to "choose life." The instructor repeatedly connects these Old Covenant teachings to New Covenant realities, showing continuities in God’s character, grace, and expectations.

This episode is a recorded class/lecture led by the instructor, featuring question-and-answer interaction with attendees.

Key takeaways: God’s choices reveal his sovereignty, holiness, mercy, and faithfulness; human choices matter and reveal the heart; leadership should be plural, wise, and accountable to God; legal provisions often aimed to protect the vulnerable rather than to endorse social ills; and the decisive ethical call of Deuteronomy—"choose life"—remains central for Christian obedience and flourishing. Expect Scripture readings, historical background, illustrative anecdotes, and practical exhortation to honor God’s choices and care for others.

 

Duration 38:23

Heaven, Texts, and Tough Questions: 10 Biblical Answers with Neal & Hiram

February 22, 2026 - Sunday PM Service

 

Join hosts Neal and Hiram for a focused Q&A session that digs into ten submitted questions about Heaven, Scripture, and practical Christian living. The discussion centers on what believers will do in Heaven (Revelation, 1 Corinthians 15, 2 Peter 3:13), the nature of the new heaven and new earth, and connections between the pre‑sin world and the eternal state.

Other topics include Old Testament passages and modern issues—Deuteronomy 22:5, Genesis, and New Testament teachings on gender distinctions; whether Leviticus 19:27–28 prohibits tattoos or cosmetic surgery; and the role of parental authority and conscience in such personal decisions.

Textual criticism and biblical reliability are explained through the example of John 5:3–4 (the angel troubling the waters), with an accessible overview of manuscript evidence and how translations handle variants. The panel also addresses questions about the intermediate state and consciousness after death (Luke 23:43; Luke 16), the meaning of Deuteronomy 28:43 in Israel’s blessings and curses, and why educated people sometimes miss the simple New Testament pattern for salvation.

Practical church questions receive clear biblical treatment: why some oppose eating in the building (context of 1 Corinthians 11 and early house churches), whether Christians must sing in worship (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16), and how much a Christian should give—contrasting Old Covenant percentages with New Testament principles from 2 Corinthians 8–9 (grace, cheerful and proportionate giving, and spiritual growth).

Throughout the episode Neal and Hiram emphasize a Scripture‑rooted approach—"speak where the Bible speaks and be silent where it is silent"—and encourage listeners to examine their spiritual condition. The program closes with an invitation to respond to the gospel and practical guidance for those who need to repent, be baptized, or seek prayer and fellowship.

 

Duration 47:46

"Signs of a Healthy Church" by Neal Pollard

February 22, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

This episode opens with a personal anecdote about a Lifeline health screening that serves as an extended analogy for spiritual health—what to watch, what to change, and how quickly circumstances can shift.

The main teaching examines how to assess the Cumberland Trace Church of Christ—what outsiders and long-time members might say about the congregation, and how objective markers (attendance growth, baptisms, membership) and subjective perceptions (friendly, conservative, busy) interplay. Neal grounds the discussion in Scripture, especially Acts 2:42–47, and contrasts cultural measures of success with what God values.

Central to the episode is a clear, four-part diagnosis of a spiritually healthy church: (1) a devoted church — steadfast to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer; (2) an awestruck church — marked by reverence and the “fear” or awe of the Lord that shapes vision and plans; (3) a generous church — sharing lives and resources to meet needs; and (4) a united church — one in mind, meeting together in homes and worship, a visible unity that draws others. These points are illustrated with biblical passages (Acts 2, John 17, Ephesians 4, 1 Corinthians 1) and contemporary examples from the congregation.

The episode also includes practical application: expectations for worship leaders and attendees to prepare and engage (not “mail it in”), the importance of dreaming big because God is bigger than our challenges, and the local implications of generosity and unity in community outreach. Cason’s preparation and leadership in worship are used as an example of devotion in practice.

The episode closes with a call to worship together and to live out the four marks of church health in daily life.

Duration 32:30

"A Study of 2 Corinthians" by Neal Pollard - Part 11

February 22, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class

This episode unpacks 2 Corinthians with a focus on the personal nature of Christianity and the pressures faced by preachers and church leaders. The host walks through Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian church—his fruitful ministry in Acts 18, the later strains caused by unnamed critics, and the shift in tone from defense (chapters 1–7) to a direct, forceful response (chapter 10 onward).

Drawing on classroom interaction with attendees (including Tim, Ms. Delores, Mike, Harold, Vivian, Brother Levi, David and others), the teaching explores practical leadership issues: visibility and the “glass house” syndrome, whether preachers should be held to higher standards, and how public ministry magnifies both the good and the harm a leader can cause.

Key scriptural themes examined include Paul’s meekness in person but boldness in letters (2 Corinthians 10), the nature of spiritual warfare (“we do not war according to the flesh” and the divinely powerful weapons to destroy strongholds), and the danger of false teachers who disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. The episode traces Paul’s motives for defending himself—jealousy for the church, concern they might accept a different gospel, and desire to protect the flock from deception.

The host highlights Paul’s practical defenses: his credentials and knowledge, his refusal to be a financial burden, and his love for the Corinthians. The episode also surveys the critics’ tactics—mocking Paul’s speech and presence—and Paul’s sharp rebuke of false apostles who seek personal advantage at the church’s expense.

Listeners can expect pastoral application throughout: how elders and preachers should carry unpopular decisions, when to stand firm and when to turn the other cheek, and the enduring reminder that leaders are fallible people serving under God’s authority. The teaching closes with a call to measure messages against Scripture, trust God as the ultimate commander, and remain vigilant against deceptive influences in the church.

Duration 43:14

"Deuteronomy" by Andy Wright Part 8

February 11, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class

This episode examines how Jesus uses the book of Deuteronomy throughout his life and ministry. Beginning with the wilderness temptation, the host shows how Jesus quotes Deuteronomy three times to resist Satan and succeeds where Israel failed — trusting God's provision, refusing to test God, and worshiping God alone. The episode then explores Jesus' citing of Deuteronomy 6:5 as the greatest commandment (the Shema), his extensive reworking of Deuteronomy passages in the Sermon on the Mount (deepening commandments such as "do not murder" and "do not commit adultery" to address anger, lust, and the heart), and his use of Deuteronomy in debates on divorce, emphasizing Moses' regulation to prevent injustice. Throughout, the speaker highlights context, original intent, and how Jesus fulfills Deuteronomy's purpose by moving from the letter of the law to its spirit, urging listeners to trust God's provision and let God's law shape the heart.

 

Duration 41:55

"The Importance of Teachers (Deuteronomy 4:1-9)" by Neal Pollard

February 15, 2026 - Sunday PM Sermon

In this episode we open to Deuteronomy chapter 4 and hear a sermon exploring Moses as the Bible-class teacher to Israel. The speaker grounds the message in Moses’ final charge (Deut. 4:1–9) and connects it to the importance of Bible teaching today, illustrating how Scripture preserves, equips, and protects God’s people. We also pause to share a prayer request for Georgia Hudson and celebrate a Teacher’s Appreciation Banquet featuring guest speaker Bud Woodall, who directed listeners to Jesus’ example in Mark 10:13–16.

Key themes covered include: the eternal value of what teachers teach (preservation, possession, protection), the transferability of truth from one generation to the next (Moses’ charge to teach children and grandchildren, Paul’s instruction to Timothy), and the tangibility of sound teaching (do not add to or take away God’s Word; be active, balanced, and watchful in applying Scripture). Practical measures for spiritual growth are discussed — time spent studying, applying the Word, and sharing it with others.

The episode mixes theology with practical encouragement and vivid illustrations — from the Jericho lesson and a gingerbread wall anecdote to sobering research from George Barna on biblical literacy — to show why Bible classrooms matter. Listeners will hear a call to renewed enthusiasm for teaching and learning, guidance for making lessons come alive, and an appeal for legacy-minded discipleship: teach faithfully so others can teach as well.

Finally, the speaker issues a clear invitation: anyone needing to respond to the gospel — to believe, repent, confess, and be baptized — or to return to fellowship and prayer is invited to respond now. Expect encouragement for teachers, challenges for students, practical application points, and heartfelt pastoral care in this episode.

 

Handout:

 
I. WHAT BIBLE TEACHERS TEACH IS _________________________ (1) 
 
   A. It Would Lead to Their ________________________ (1) 
 
   B. It Would Lead to Their ________________________ (1) 
 
   C. It Would Lead to Their ________________________ (3) 
 
II. WHAT BIBLE TEACHERS TEACH IS ______________________ (5,9)  
 
III. WHAT BIBLE TEACHERS TEACH IS _______________________ (2-9) 
 
   A. He Told Them to Be _____________________ (2) 
 
   B. He Told Them to Be ______________________ 6) 
 
   C. He Told Them to Be ______________________ (9) 
Conclusion 
 
A. Teachers Are Important to The Process Of ________________ & _________________ Life

 

Duration 31:36

"The Heart of the Matter: Six Conditions of the Heart" by Hiram Kemp

February 15, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon

 

In this episode Hiram uses the Bible — especially Romans — to explore the spiritual equivalent of heart health. Using Proverbs, Jeremiah, Matthew and many passages from Romans, the talk lays out six conditions of the human heart: the darkened heart, the hardened heart, the transformed heart, the heart filled with God’s love, the obedient heart, and the believing heart. Listeners will hear how these conditions appear in both ancient Scripture and modern life, why the heart is central to spiritual life, and how the gospel addresses each condition.

The episode includes practical teaching and pastoral application: how we can recognize fruit that reveals heart condition, why information alone won’t change a darkened heart, and why obedience and belief must flow from the heart. Key scriptural touchpoints include Romans chapters 1–6 and 10, Proverbs 4:23, Jeremiah 17 and 29, Ezekiel 36:26, and passages from Ephesians, 2 Corinthians and the Gospels. The speaker emphasizes that God doesn’t remove the light, but that people sometimes resist it, and he explains the biblical difference between a heart that is merely outwardly religious, and a heart truly transformed by God.

Practical takeaways include recognizing dark or hardened tendencies, celebrating and pursuing heart transformation by the Holy Spirit, allowing God’s love to fill the heart, and responding in faith and obedience (including baptism as the biblical pattern referenced in Romans).

Listeners should expect a mixture of exposition, real-life illustration, scriptural encouragement, and pastoral challenge: a clear call to let God examine and change the heart, to be filled with His love, to obey from the heart, and ultimately to believe and confess Jesus as Lord. The episode ends with an invitation to respond and offers help for anyone wanting to study Scripture or begin a relationship with Christ.

Handout:  
1. The _____________________ Heart (Romans 1:21) 
 
2. The _____________________ Heart (Romans 2:5) 
 
3. The _____________________ Heart (Romans 2:29) 
 
4. The _____________________ Heart (Romans 5:5) 
 
5. The _____________________ Heart (Romans 6:17) 
 
6. The _____________________ Heart (Romans 10:9-10)

 

Duration 34:11