In a world where offense feels unavoidable, how do we respond in a way that reflects the love of Jesus? This message dives into practical truths about forgiveness, challenging us to evaluate our expectations of others and raise our level of grace.
Key insights include:
° Forgiveness as a reflection of Christ's sacrifice. We forgive because we
have been forgiven. (Mark 11:24-26)
° How to cancel the debt we feel owed. Forgiveness is not minimizing hurt
but choosing freedom.
° Navigating common offenses: discrimination, family, the church, and more.
Through scripture (Matthew 24:10; Luke 17:1; James 1:19-20), we explore how lowering our expectations of people and raising our capacity for forgiveness sets us free and mirrors the love of Jesus.
Ultimately, if we aim to make disciples who make disciples, our actions must match our words. Are you willing to forgive and reflect Jesus in a world trained to hold onto offense? Join us as we explore this vital topic.
Encounters with Jesus | December 22, 2024
December 22, 2024 • Daron Adkison
Luke 23:22-43 tells the profound story of two thieves crucified alongside Jesus. These men, guilty of armed robbery, started by mocking Him. Yet, something changed for one of them during the crucifixion. In the final moments of his life, he repents and places his faith in Jesus—receiving the promise of eternal life.
This passage challenges us to reflect on the two possible responses to Jesus: rejection or repentance. The second thief had no opportunity to perform good works, attend church, or even be baptized—his salvation was secured solely by the grace and work of Christ.
Key takeaways from this encounter:
°Jesus' words on the cross fulfill prophecy. (Psalm 22, Psalm 69:20-21)
°The power of forgiveness. Even in His suffering, Jesus forgave His mockers
and tormentors (Luke 23:34).
°Salvation is by grace alone. The thief reminds us that it’s not what we do, but
what Christ has done, that secures our eternity.
The question remains: How will you respond to Jesus? Join us as we explore this life-changing moment at the cross, where grace triumphs over guilt.
Encounters with Jesus | December 15, 2024
December 15, 2024 • Daniel Smith
Mark 5:1-20 contains one of the most detailed and dramatic accounts of demon possession and exorcism in the Bible. In this powerful passage, we see Jesus’ authority not only over nature, as He calms the storm, but also over the spiritual realm, as He frees a man possessed by a legion of demons.
This sequence of events—from teaching about the Kingdom of God, crossing the Sea of Galilee, calming a storm, and encountering a demon-possessed man—demonstrates the unmatched power of Jesus.
Key takeaways from this message:
° Jesus' authority is unmatched. He calms storms, both physical and spiritual. If Jesus says you’ll go over, you won’t go under!
° Spiritual maturity is measured by action. It’s not about how much you know but what you do with it.
° Jesus identifies with our pain. At the end of Mark, we see Jesus Himself naked, bleeding, crying out, and buried in a tomb—showing His compassion and love for humanity.
Join us as we unpack this incredible story of transformation, revealing the power and authority of Jesus over all things, including the darkest forces in our world and lives. Are you ready to trust Him with your storms?
Encounters with Jesus | December 8, 2024
December 8, 2024 • Greg Despres
In this heartfelt message, Pastor Greg explores the powerful restoration of Peter in John 21. After denying Jesus three times, Peter is burdened by guilt and shame—but Jesus meets him right where he is, offering forgiveness and commissioning him for a renewed purpose.
This encounter is more than just a personal story; it’s a profound illustration of how Jesus deals with our failures. Through Peter’s journey, we are reminded that:
•We must own our part in our failures, just as Peter did when Jesus asked him three times, "Do you love me?"
•God’s correction isn’t condemnation—it’s a moment of restoration and commissioning.
•Jesus covers our past so we can live in freedom. When we invite Him into our brokenness, He transforms our weaknesses into strengths.
If you’re struggling with guilt, shame, or a sense of unworthiness, this message will encourage you to let Jesus into your past, bringing healing and hope. Don’t miss this powerful reminder that you don’t walk away from an encounter with Jesus unchanged!
Encounters with Jesus | December 1, 2024
December 1, 2024 • Daron Adkison
In this eye-opening message, Pastor Daron dives into the story of the Rich Young Ruler and his encounter with Jesus in Matthew 19:16-22. With a heart full of questions about eternity, this man seeks clarity but is challenged with a truth he wasn’t ready to accept: being “good” isn’t enough.
Jesus’ response goes beyond a checklist of rules—it prods at the priorities of the young man’s heart. What does it mean to follow Jesus wholeheartedly? What might be standing in your way?
Through a powerful series of questions, Pastor Daron unpacks the deep spiritual lessons from this encounter, challenging us to examine our own lives:
• Have you acknowledged God as the ultimate authority in your life?
• Have you settled the question of eternity in your heart?
• What “things” are keeping you from fully surrendering to Jesus?
Whether you’re seeking clarity about faith, wrestling with material priorities, or just curious about this compelling story, this message will inspire you to take a closer look at your walk with Christ.
Encounters with Jesus | November 24, 2024
November 24, 2024 • Seth Harris
In this inspiring message, Pastor Seth unpacks the incredible ways Jesus reveals the glory of God through His life, healing, and ultimate sacrifice. Drawing from John 9, we explore the blind man’s journey from darkness to light, highlighting how Jesus seeks, heals, and transforms.
Learn how Jesus’ initiating love mirrors God’s sovereign grace, why suffering is not punishment but an opportunity for God’s works to shine, and how the ultimate display of God’s glory is found on the cross.
Through powerful insights into Jesus as the Creator, the sent one, and the Savior, discover how encountering Him changes everything. How is your life proclaiming His glory? Join us as we dive deep into John 9 and encounter the radiance of God’s presence through Jesus.
Encounters with Jesus | November 17, 2024
November 17, 2024 • Daron Adkison
In this transformative message, Pastor Daron unpacks the incredible story of Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector whose encounter with Jesus changed everything. This story, set against the backdrop of Jesus’ declaration about the impossibility of a rich man entering the Kingdom, reveals a profound truth: with God, all things are possible.
Discover how Jesus’ mission to seek and save the lost takes center stage as Zacchaeus moves from a state of spiritual ruin to joyful repentance. Pastor Daron highlights the distinction between works and faith, showing how Zacchaeus’ actions were not the cause of salvation but the evidence of a transformed heart. Contrast this with the story of the Rich Young Ruler, and see how a joyful response to Jesus leads to real, visible change.
If you’ve ever wondered what it means to be truly found, this message will inspire and challenge you to embrace the love and mission of Jesus, who came to seek and save the lost. Don’t miss this powerful reminder of redemption and hope!
Encounters with Jesus | November 10, 2024
November 10, 2024 • Daron Adkison
In this compelling message, Pastor Daron dives deep into the parable of the Good Samaritan, revealing the transformative challenge Jesus presents about loving our neighbors. As a lawyer questions Jesus on who his "neighbor" truly is, the parable unfolds, pushing boundaries and shattering expectations of who deserves our compassion. Through the lens of a Samaritan—a despised enemy of the Jews—Jesus highlights that true love for our neighbors is not limited by social norms, prejudice, or personal comfort.
Pastor Daron explains how Jesus calls us to a higher standard, one that includes even our enemies, and how this level of love is only possible through the empowerment of the Spirit. Discover how Jesus invites us beyond surface-level obedience to a radical, life-changing compassion that defies the world’s expectations and reveals our need for a Savior. Don’t miss this profound message on living with a love that transcends all boundaries!
Encounters with Jesus | November 3, 2024
November 3, 2024 • Daron Adkison
In this transformative message, Pastor Daron unpacks the powerful story of Jesus’ encounter with Matthew, a tax collector considered an outcast in his society. Despite Matthew’s reputation and his wealth-driven lifestyle, Jesus calls him publicly, signaling a radical new beginning. Pastor Daron explores how Matthew’s willingness to leave his profitable life shows the depth of his need for Jesus—and how Jesus saw something unique in Matthew that no one else did.
As Jesus challenges the Pharisees with a lesson on true healing and humility, we’re invited to reconsider who might be “in” or “out” in God’s eyes. Discover how Matthew’s story reminds us that Jesus calls us not based on our past but on His purpose. Whether society sees us as “worthy” or not, Jesus sees our potential and offers a life-changing call.
Encounters with Jesus | October 27, 2024
October 27, 2024 • Daron Adkison
In this eye-opening message, Pastor Daron dives deep into the late-night encounter between Nicodemus, a respected Pharisee, and Jesus. As Nicodemus struggles with dissatisfaction despite his outward righteousness, Jesus confronts him with the truth about spiritual transformation. Through this encounter, Pastor Daron explores what it means to be "born again" and contrasts Nicodemus' journey with that of the Samaritan woman—two very different individuals, but both equally in need of Jesus. Discover how this story challenges us to examine our own lives and reminds us that no matter where we stand, there is hope and renewal through Christ.
Encounters with Jesus | October 20, 2024
October 20, 2024 • Greg Despres
In this impactful message, Pastor Greg dives into Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well. He breaks down how Jesus crosses cultural barriers and exposes the deep spiritual thirst within all of us. Pastor Greg explains the dangers of chasing after worldly substitutes or getting lost in empty religion, and how only Jesus can truly satisfy our souls. Whether you’re feeling spiritually dry or searching for deeper meaning, this sermon will guide you to the living water that Jesus offers. Don’t miss these powerful insights into finding true fulfillment in Christ!
Encounters with Jesus | October 13, 2024
October 13, 2024 • Daron Adkison
In this insightful message, Pastor Daron dives into the story of Jesus turning water into wine, His very first miracle. At a wedding where social disgrace was imminent, Jesus not only kept the celebration going but also pointed to something much deeper—our spiritual need for transformation. Discover how the empty jars symbolize the emptiness of religious works and how Jesus fulfills what they could never accomplish. As the ultimate Master of the Feast, Jesus offers new life and joy, even while He begins to taste the bitterness of death that awaits Him. Don’t miss this powerful look into how an encounter with Jesus transforms everything!
For more messages, visit http://fairfieldbaptist.com/sermons
Encounters with Jesus | October 6, 2024
October 6, 2024 • Daron Adkison
In this powerful message, Pastor Daron explores four transformative encounters between John the Baptist and Jesus. From John leaping for joy in the womb to proclaiming Jesus as the Lamb of God, to baptizing Him, and even questioning His identity—each encounter reveals something profound about who Jesus is. Discover how Jesus brings joy, hope, and challenges the status quo, and learn why His baptism is a powerful example for us to follow. Don’t miss this deep dive into how an encounter with Jesus never leaves you unchanged!
