Between Two Worlds (Sparks)

Faith in the Face of a Caricature

November 24, 2024 • Mark South • Revelation 13

In this sermon, Pastor Mark delves into Revelation chapter 13, describing the emergence of two beasts symbolizing counterfeit power and authority empowered by the dragon (Satan). The passage exemplifies the contrast between the deceptive kingdom of the world and the true kingdom of God. Pastor Mark describes how worldly powers, such as Rome in the text, appear invincible and self-sufficient, often leading believers to marvel at and potentially worship these earthly systems. He highlights four counterfeits presented by the beasts: counterfeit power, counterfeit sovereignty, counterfeit preachers, and counterfeit belonging. Emphasizing the need for discernment, Pastor Mark urges believers to see through these deceptions, hold strong to their faith, and reject the allure of worldly powers. The sermon culminates in a call to choose the true mark of God over the mark of the beast, representing a life of faith and endurance despite societal pressures. 08:00 The Real vs. The Counterfeit 20:49 The Power of Rome 29:37 The Influence of Worldly Communities 31:58 Counterfeit Power and Sovereignty 34:04 True Sovereignty of God 42:29 The Second Beast and False Trinity 46:35 The Deception of False Signs 51:57 The Meaning of 666 56:20 Choosing Your Mark

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 Bittersweet Life

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 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

Sealed and Delivered

October 20, 2024 • Mark South • Revelation 6

In this compelling sermon, Pastor Mark delves into Revelation Chapter 6, unpacking the profound symbolism of the seven seals and their apocalyptic visions, including the four horsemen. He discusses the broader themes of enduring suffering with faith, the inevitability of divine judgment, and the salvation offered through God's grace. Through vivid illustrations and heartfelt stories, he calls on the congregation to imagine transforming their community, finding deep contentment and purpose in their faith amidst life's inescapable challenges. 13:07 The Hope Amidst Poverty 16:32 The Scroll and Its Seals 22:38 The First Seal: The White Horse 26:56 The Red Horse: War and Division 30:05 The Black Horse: Famine and Scarcity 32:27 The Pale Horse: Death and Consequences 36:17 The Fifth Seal: Martyrs and Their Cry for Justice 44:20 The Sixth Seal: The Inescapable Future 48:08 Equal at the Foot of the Cross

The Lion and the Lamb

October 13, 2024 • John Wolfe • Revelation 5

In this sermon, Pastor John expounds on Revelation 5, illustrating the profound symbolism and significance of Christ as both the sacrificial Lamb and the conquering Lion of Judah. Emphasizing the heavenly vision, he reflects on the trials faced by early Christians and draws parallels to contemporary struggles, urging the congregation to find hope in Christ’s eventual return. Pastor John delves into the importance of the scroll held by God, representing the fulfillment of God's covenantal promises, and the despair of finding no one worthy to open it until Christ is revealed as the redeemer and conqueror. The sermon underscores Jesus' role in building the Church, relating to human suffering, and bringing ultimate justice. It concludes with a scene of heavenly worship, affirming Jesus' redemptive power and sovereignty over all. 04:30 Introduction to the Book of Revelation 05:57 John's Vision and the State of the Church 11:41 The Scroll and Its Significance 17:08 The Lion and the Lamb 20:49 The Symbolism of Seven in Scripture 21:32 Jesus: The Omnipotent and Omniscient Lamb 22:00 The Upside-Down Kingdom of God 22:26 Jesus: The Conquering Lion and Suffering Servant 23:06 Understanding Suffering and Evil 24:23 The Heavenly Worship Scene 27:27 The Ever-Expanding Covenants of God 30:46 Jesus: The Fulfillment of God's Promises 35:06 The Role of the Church and Spiritual Gifts 38:51 Hope and Confidence in God's Faithfulness 39:43 Concluding Prayer and Praise

What Do Your Eyes Tell You?

October 6, 2024 • Carlos Orozco • Revelation 4

In this powerful sermon by Pastor Carlos, the focus is on Revelation chapter 4 and the vision of heaven that calls believers to worship God. Pastor Carlos explores the significance of apocalyptic literature, the heavenly realms, and the consistency of God's presence from the Old to the New Testament. He encourages the congregation to live intentionally according to God's will, reflecting on eternal hope found through faith and suffering. By delving into the symbolic imagery around God's throne, such as the rainbow and the 24 elders, Pastor Carlos emphasizes the centrality of worship and God's sovereignty. Listeners are urged to teach their children about Jesus, maintain focus on their spiritual relationship with God, and support one another in their faith. This sermon invites everyone to embrace the simplicity and majesty of God's eternal rule and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. 03:39 Introduction to the Sermon 05:06 Between Two Worlds: Understanding Revelation 06:41 The Heavenly Perspective 13:57 The Call to the Heavenly Realm 24:14 The Throne and the Rainbow 27:59 The Covenant of the Rainbow 28:32 The Throne and the Elders 29:29 God's Omnipresence and Omniscience 30:20 God's Control Over Chaos 34:41 The 24 Elders and Their Significance 37:24 Worship as a Response to God's Majesty 43:18 Personal Reflections and Encouragement 51:14 Concluding Prayer and Benediction

Open Doors in a Closed World

September 29, 2024 • Mark South • Revelation 3:7–22

In this sermon, Pastor Mark finishes the letters to the 7 churches centered on Revelation 3:7-22, discussing the letters to the churches of Philadelphia and Laodicea. He emphasizes the significance of various 'doors' that Jesus opens—doors to the Kingdom of God, opportunities for living out faith, and divine protection. Mark also contrasts the transformative and refreshing faiths with lukewarm faith, challenging believers to open all doors to Jesus' fellowship and reproof. He encourages the congregation to embrace the transformative trials and opportunities presented by God. 04:31 Understanding Revelation 10:59 The Key of David and Open Doors 25:00 The Door of Faith in Action 26:01 Walking Through the Door of Hardship 27:27 Opportunities to Live Out Faith 28:31 The Church's Mission and Impact 29:23 Facing Personal Trials with Faith 32:16 God's Promise of Protection 38:01 Understanding the Lukewarm Faith 45:32 Opening the Door to Jesus 49:26 Concluding Prayer and Reflection

The Tolerant Church

September 22, 2024 • Mark South • Revelation 2:12—3:6

In this sermon, Pastor Mark delves into Revelation 2:12-3:6, focusing on the messages to the churches of Thyatira, Pergamum, and Sardis. He emphasizes the attributes praised by Jesus and the issues of tolerance and compromise that Jesus critiques in these churches. Pastor Mark highlights the importance of remaining steadfast in faith and warns against allowing false teachings and worldly influences to permeate the church. Using personal anecdotes and scriptural references, he encourages the congregation to introspect on their own spiritual lives and ensure they align with Jesus' teachings. He concludes by urging believers to be both the most inclusive yet exclusive like Christ, balancing love and acceptance with adherence to Biblical truths. 03:08 Context of Revelation Letters 04:06 Jesus' Message to the Churches 13:13 The Church of Pergamum 29:09 The Danger of Tolerating Sin 30:51 Lessons from the Church of Thyatira 35:03 The False Teachings of Jezebel 41:05 The Deep Things of Satan 45:18 The Dead Church of Sardis 51:08 Conquering Through Christ 52:42 A Call to Wake Up and Strengthen Faith

Faithful or Fading

September 15, 2024 • Mark South • Revelation 2:1–11

In this second sermon of our series in Revelation 'Between Two Worlds', Pastor Mark delves into Revelation Chapter 2, focusing on the messages to the churches in Ephesus and Smyrna. Highlighting the commendations and rebukes from Jesus, the sermon emphasizes the importance of combining faith with true love for Christ. The sermon calls on believers to rekindle their affection for Jesus, demonstrating that genuine love should be the foundation of all their actions. Pastor Mark also reflects on how the early Christians' experience of hardship and faithfulness can serve as a powerful example for modern believers. 02:57 Church Updates and Announcements 07:51 The Significance of Letters in the New Testament 12:32 Jesus' Letters to the Seven Churches 25:06 The Right Question: Growing Affections for Jesus 27:15 Faith and Love in Smyrna 29:16 The Imperial Cult and Christian Tribulation 34:12 True Jews and the Synagogue of Satan 39:41 Conquering Through Faith and Love 46:00 Final Reflections and Prayer

The Real Revelation

September 8, 2024 • Mark South • Revelation 1

In our first sermon in our new series, Between Two Worlds, we delve into Revelation 1:1-20 exploring the profound message given to John through Jesus Christ. Pastor Mark expounds on the unique apocalyptic nature of Revelation, shedding light on its symbolism, the importance of knowing its original audience, and the deep spiritual transformation it intends rather than just informative knowledge. He emphasizes the need to shift from merely admiring to truly adoring Jesus Christ, recognizing His divine authority and presence among the churches. We are encouraged to approach the book with fresh eyes and humility, seeking to deepen their faith and understanding of God's Word. The sermon also highlights the challenges of interpreting Revelation and the importance of community study. 05:08 Challenges of Preaching Revelation 06:54 The Importance of Humility and Open-Mindedness 12:15 The Blessing of Revelation 15:52 Understanding the Author and Audience 27:30 The Genre of Revelation, Understanding Apocalyptic Literature 29:18 The Caricature of Apocalyptic Imagery 33:22 The Gifts of Revelation 37:22 A Vision of Jesus 44:26 Jesus Among the Churches 47:33 The Ancient of Days 50:16 The Sword of Judgment 50:55 Falling Before Jesus

Living Stones Churches

The Book of Revelation