Sermons
Sermons from Bay Vista Baptist ChurchA Church to Be Thankful For
In contrast to the churches Peter was addressing in his letters (which we studied last year), the church at Philippi was a strong, thriving church. Paul opens his letter to them by thanking God for them, and letting them know specifically why he was so grateful to them as a church.
Forget; Forward - Focus!
Paul encouraged his readers to forget any claim they had to being good in and of themselves; rather, they needed to move forward, focusing on the end goal. 2,000 years later, we too must press toward the goal of holiness, as we look forward to our eventual prize, perfect and complete union with Jesus Christ.
Unto Us a Child Is Born
Scripture describes Jesus as the Light of the world. As we look back over the four candles of Advent, we see how the newly arrived Baby truly brings hope, peace, joy, and love to us, and has commissioned us to share His love with our world.
The Sacrifice of Love
As we turn our thoughts toward love on the fourth Sunday of Advent, we take a look at the sacrifice Jesus made for us. Romans 5:8 epitomizes this love - while we were still sinners, Christ died for us!
Be Glad and Rejoice
Zephaniah’s message from God was not pretty; however, after prophesying doom, he ends his book with a message of joy. The King would come to be with them, ending all their fear and despair, and would actually sing for joy over His people.
The One Who Prepares
When John the Baptist was born, Zechariah (his father) was able to speak for the first time in 9 months. Some of his first words were a prophecy of both his son and the One for Whom his son was sent to prepare the world. Like John, Christ should be the focus of our lives, and we too are called to bring light and peace into a dark and tumultuous world.
The Righteous Branch
Israel had been taken captive - the northern kingdom by Assyria, the southern kingdom by Judah. Jeremiah prophesied a return for the southern kingdom, but he also prophesied of a coming King unlike any they had seen up to this point - a righteous, fair ruler Who would bring safety and salvation to His people.
Give Thanks to the Sustainer
We conclude Psalm 136 with a look at how God preserved the Israelites as they moved toward the promised land. His enduring love is for us; He does not forget us, and hears us when we cry out to Him.
Give Thanks to the Redeemer
As we continue looking at Psalm 136, we look back to God’s judgment of Egypt, and His release of His people across the Red Sea. While judgment is not a pleasant thought, its reality makes our redemption very meaningful, and should inspire gratitude.
Give Thanks to the Creator
Psalm 136 is a celebration of God’s love; its repetitions of “His love endures forever” remind us that no matter how high and lifted up God is, He still chooses to extend love to us. The first part of the psalm expresses gratitude to the true, good God Who created heaven and earth.