The Bittersweet Life

Living Stones Churches

Media App

The Bittersweet Life

Choosing Christ When It Hurts

November 10, 2024 • Mark South • Revelation 10—11

This sermon by Pastor Mark delves into chapters 10 and 11 of the Book of Revelation, exploring the vivid imagery and prophetic visions experienced by John. The text depicts a mighty angel with a small scroll, symbolizing God's Word, which is sweet to the taste but bitter in the stomach—representing the joy of receiving God's message and the hardship of living it out. The sermon emphasizes that the Christian walk is inherently bittersweet, filled with both the sweetness of God's promises and the bitterness of real-world challenges. The church is encouraged to embrace the invincibility of God's temple, the unbreakable nature of the Gospel, and the ultimate reward of eternal presence with God. Pastor Mark stresses the importance of persevering through trials with the assurance that God reigns supreme and will fulfill His promises.

06:04 Bittersweet Nature of Faith

08:40 The Scroll and the Seven Thunders

16:31 The Mystery of God and the Scroll

23:38 The Bitterness of Faithfulness

25:02 Embracing the Sweetness of God's Word

26:20 The Two Witnesses: A Symbol of the Church

28:55 The Invincibility of God's People

30:40 The Power of the Holy Spirit

32:43 The Bitterness of Witnessing in an Unrepentant World

36:41 The Invincibility of the Gospel

41:37 The Sweetness of the Reward

The Son, the Woman, and the Dragon

November 17, 2024 • John Wolfe • Genesis 12

In this sermon, Pastor John explores the apocalyptic imagery and themes of Revelation 12. He begins by reading and discussing the passage about the woman, the dragon, and the male child who is to rule all nations. Pastor John explains the significance of these symbols, connecting them to the faithful people of God throughout history and the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of understanding Revelation as a source of spiritual perspective and encouragement, particularly for those enduring suffering and persecution. The sermon underscores the victory of Christ over Satan and the assurance of God's purpose in our trials, urging believers to find strength and rest in the completed work of Jesus on the cross. 02:53 Understanding the Book of Revelation 05:34 The Woman, the Dragon, and the Male Child 18:49 The Cosmic Battle and Satan's Defeat 24:35 The Church's Suffering and Satan's Wrath 35:58 Encouragement and Final Prayer

The Place of Our Prayer in God’s Plan

November 3, 2024 • Mark South • Revelation 8—9

In this sermon, Pastor Mark delves into Revelation chapters 8 and 9, discussing the significance of the seventh seal and the seven trumpets. The initial silence in heaven marks the start of God's apocalyptic plan, wherein the prayers of the saints are collected and cast upon the earth, leading to divine judgment and transformation. Pastor Mark emphasizes the importance of prayer, likening it to the pennies of faith that accumulate into great spiritual wealth. As various plagues and judgments unfold, believers are encouraged to pray with intention and compassion, trusting in God's ultimate plan. 02:50 Reflecting on Worship 08:34 The Story of Ronald Reed 13:33 The Power of Prayer 24:54 Understanding God's Judgment 26:58 The Significance of Trumpets 30:15 The First Four Trumpets 37:35 The Fifth Trumpet: Spiritual Torment 44:20 The Sixth Trumpet: Deception and Lies 48:55 The Call to Compassionate Prayer

Here I Stand… God Help Me!

October 27, 2024 • Mark South • Revelation 7

In this enlightening sermon, Pastor Mark explores profound themes from Revelation 7, focusing on the vision of a multitude from all nations and the symbolic significance of the 144,000. He discusses the spiritual protection of those sealed by God and the unity of believers singing 'Salvation belongs to God' before His throne. Emphasizing the humility required to stand before a holy God, Pastor Mark draws parallels to Reformation Sunday, celebrating Martin Luther's legacy. He also reflects on Jesus as the eternal pastor, who shepherds souls to a life free from sorrow. The sermon underscores God's grace, mercy, and the eternal life promised through Jesus Christ. 03:01 A Special Day of Worship 04:46 Reformation Sunday and Martin Luther 07:31 The Question of Standing Before God 12:18 The Vision of the Four Angels 17:07 The Sealing of God's Servants 21:29 Understanding the 144,000 26:13 Jesus Aligns with the Broken 28:46 The Sealing of God's People 30:51 Standing Before the Throne 35:07 The Blood of the Lamb 40:15 Eternal Life with the Shepherd