Shows
On the Record (Bahamas)THE BOY WHO LOVED FISHING: Chester Cooper / S9E2Tonight we take a journey. One that starts in the small quaint community of Forbes Hill, Exuma. It's a place where life is simple, values run deep, and dreams are as boundless as the turquoise sea. This is where the story of I. Chester Cooper begins.
Guest: The Honourable I. Chester Cooper - Deputy Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Minister of Tourism Investment and Aviation
2025-01-3158 min
Freedom Church ChesterSunday 28th November (preacher Keith Cooper)Sunday, 28th November 2021 //
John 10:1-11 //
Jesus said, 'I am the good shepherd and the gate' //
Keith Cooper preaching //
2021-11-2821 min
Team Cooper PodcastDPM Chester Cooper Inaugural House of Assembly SpeechDPM Chester Cooper delivers a powerful inaugural speech in the House of Assembly.
2021-11-0955 min
Freedom Church ChesterSunday 31st October (Preacher Keith CooperSunday, 31st October 2021 //
Freedom on the Streets //
Keith Cooper preaching //
2021-10-3115 min
Freedom Church ChesterColossians 1:21-23 - Part 4 (Preacher Keith CooperSunday, 24th October 2021 //
Colossians 1:21-23 - Part 4 //
Then and Now //
Keith Cooper preaching //
2021-10-2434 min
Freedom Church ChesterColossians 1:9-14 - Part 2 (preacher Keith Cooper)Sunday, 10th October 2021 //
Colossians 1:9-14 - Part 2 //
How to Pray //
Keith Cooper preaching //
2021-10-1029 min
Freedom Church ChesterPsalm 20 (Preacher Keith Cooper)Sunday, 12th September 2021 //
Psalm 20 - Freedom on the Streets //
Trust in the Lord //
Keith Cooper preaching //
2021-09-2612 min
Team Cooper PodcastCooper On Airport Authority Amendment Bill 2021On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper phylisophically agrees with the bill, but points out his concerns and other national concerns. He speaks about the unrest in country, and calls for more leadership. He also speaks about the current state of Grand Bahama, the need for repairs, and the sale of The Grand Bahama Airport.
2021-03-2533 min
Freedom Church ChesterThe Wisdom of God (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 21 March 2021 // The Wisdom of God // Keith Cooper preaching//
2021-03-2135 min
Freedom Church ChesterTranscendent majesty: The Holiness of God (preacher Keith Cooper)Sunday, 28 February 2021 // Transcendent majesty: The Holiness of God // Keith Cooper preaching
2021-02-2840 min
Freedom Church ChesterBeyond compare: Greatness of God (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 7 February 2021 // Beyond compare: Greatness of God // Keith Cooper preaching
2021-02-0735 min
Freedom Church ChesterJoyfully fearing God (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 17 January 2021 //
The fear of the Lord | Joyfully fearing God //
Keith Cooper preaching //
//
Cover photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/photos/FgNAw7qniIk
2021-01-1734 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper On The Importance Of Majority Rule DayOn this episode of The Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper speaks to the importance of Majority Rule Day in The Bahamas, the people who made it possible, and how we must continue to the mission of empowering Bahamians.
2021-01-1208 min
Freedom Church Chester1 Timothy 6:17-21 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 3 January 2021 //
1 Timothy 6:17-21 | Where your treasure is //
Keith Cooper preaching //
//
Cover photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/photos/dGxOgeXAXm8
2021-01-0324 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper On Fisheries BillOn this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper speaks about the regulations, management, and preservation of fisheries in The Bahamas, and the importance of fisheries as a means of growing our economy, becoming more food secure and empowering Bahamians.
2020-12-1734 min
Freedom Church ChesterChristmas Visitors - Shepherds (preachers: Keith Cooper & Rosannah Cooper)Sunday, 13 December 2020 //
Christmas Visitors - Shepherds //
Keith Coopers & Rosannah Cooper preaching
2020-12-1321 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper House Remarks 26.11.20On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper speaks about the extension of the State of Emergency and the effects of current restrictions on The Bahamas and Exuma.
2020-11-2730 minFreedom Church Chester1 Timothy 5:17-6:2 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 22 November 2020 //
1 Timothy 5:17-6:2 | Elders and Slaves //
Keith Cooper preaching //
//
Cover photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/photos/dGxOgeXAXm8
2020-11-2231 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper Provides Contribution to The Financial Service Providers Bill And Digital Assets BillOn this episode of The Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper steps into the House of Assembly to provide some insight on the Financial Service Providers Bill and Digital Assets Bill. He re-iterates his disappointment in the recent announcement by Scotiabank that they will close their branch in Exuma and other Family Islands, then dives into the details of these bills.
2020-11-0536 minFreedom Church Chester1 Timothy 4:1-10 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 1 November 2020 //
1 Timothy 4:1-10 | Gospel FIt //
Keith Cooper preaching //
//
Cover photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/photos/dGxOgeXAXm8
2020-11-0131 min
Freedom Church Chester1 Timothy 4:1-10 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 1 November 2020 //
1 Timothy 4:1-10 | Gospel Fit //
Keith Cooper preaching //
//
Cover photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/photos/dGxOgeXAXm8
2020-11-0131 min
The Global Sales Leader podcast hosted by - Jasoncooper.io, The Sales Relationship CoachVision, values plus Gratitude? MindFul Leadership Series 1 Episode 17 with Chester Elton#1 Bestselling Business Author, Organizational Culture, Employee Engagement and Leadership Expert One of today’s most influential voices in workplace trends, Chester Elton has spent two decades helping clients engage their employees to execute strategy, vision, and values. In his provocative, inspiring and always entertaining talks, #1 bestselling leadership author Chester Elton provides real solutions to leaders looking to manage change, drive innovation, and lead a multi-generational workforce. Elton’s work is supported by research with more than 850,000 working adults, revealing the proven secrets behind high-performance cultures and teams.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Leading-Gratitude-Leadership-Practices-Extraordinary/dp/0062965786 https://www.chesterelton.com/ h...
2020-10-0640 minFreedom Church Chester1 Timothy 1:12-17 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 13 September 2020 //
1 Timothy 1:12-17 | Thankful Testimony //
Keith Cooper preaching //
//
Cover photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/photos/dGxOgeXAXm8
2020-09-1328 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 24 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday 9 August 2020 //
Acts 24 | Paul the witness //
Keith Cooper preaching //
//
Three accusations are made against Paul: //
1. A personal allegation //
2. A political allegation //
3. A doctrinal allegation //
//
Paul responds that he serves the same God as his accusers, whom he serves with a clear conscience. Further he demonstrates how the gospel is central to his life and his defence. //
//
In this sermon we hear how dependent we are on God - on his Spirit - to live our lives and to stand innocent before him in the last judgement. Righteousness, self-control are the the work of Christ in us.
2020-08-0933 minTeam Cooper PodcastChester Cooper MP, PLP Deputy Leader encourages Bahamians to wear mask properly, social distance and avoid gatherings. Lets do this for our overburdened essential workers, our economy and each otherChester Cooper MP, PLP Deputy Leader encourages Bahamians to wear mask properly, social distance and avoid gatherings. Lets do this for our overburdened essential workers, for our economy and each other
2020-08-0703 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 21:1-17 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 19 July 2020 | Acts 21:1-17 //
Keith Cooper | Following the Saviour //
Paul’s travels bring him into contact with yet more believers. Their warm welcome shows how completely they have forgiven him for his history as a persecutor of the church, present and assenting to the murder of the martyr Stephen. Simply, the believers love Paul. //
//
These brothers and sisters in Christ warn Paul of the risks he faces, pursuing his course; these warnings are based on revelation from the Holy Spirit. Nevertheless, Paul single-mindedly continues as he believes he must, to share the gospel to many nations, even at the risk of...
2020-07-1933 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper supports the Central Bank bills to modernize the regulatory regime.On this episode of The Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper addresses the Central Bank bills and supports the modernization of the regulatory regime.
2020-07-0723 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 20:7-16 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 5 July 2020 | Acts 20:7-16 //
Keith Cooper | Sleepy head //
Why does Luke choose to include in Acts the story of Eutychus? In a warm room, after hearing Paul speak for a long time, Euthychus became sleepy – and fell out of a third storey window, to his death. //
//
Though this was a shocking event, the apostle Paul, unperturbed, prays over the body of Eutychus, who returns to life, completely unharmed. They then carry on with the meeting! //
//
We gain here a glimpse of the early church – meeting on a Sunday, sharing communion, listening to Paul share for hours! And against the background of p...
2020-07-0534 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 19:11-20 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 14 June 2020 | Acts 19:11-20 //
Keith Cooper | Power encounters //
Jesus’ mode of operation included frequent healings & casting out demons – whether requested by the sick person or initiated by Jesus himself. Today’s passage shows that God’s attitude towards healing and deliverance is unchanged. //
//
Healing is not magic however. God is not at our beck and call. Not everyone will be healed in this life. Nevertheless, the power of God cannot be denied. We must still ask God, we must persist in prayer, asking in faith, knowing that God can heal us. And in his good time, he works his miracles.
2020-06-1440 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 19:1-10 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 7 June 2020 | Acts 19:1-10 //
Keith Cooper | Another Pentecost? //
Paul and John the Baptist had in common a realisation that Jesus is God. The twelve men mentioned in this passage needed to understand this. Like them, without the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit, there will always be something missing from our lives. //
//
Though the men had to some extent repented, they had not yet turned to Christ – which is necessary for salvation and transformation. The authenticity of their salvation could only be demonstrated by receiving the Holy Spirit – as we must. //
//
Be filled with the Spirit. Let your life‘s purpos...
2020-06-0737 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper speaks of COVID at the PLP's briefing. Eight weeks in, still no economic plan, no strategy and no money.On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper provides a COVID-19 update at the PLP Headquarters. He addresses The Prime Ministers Economic Outlook, Political Expedience and more.
2020-05-1212 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 17:10-15 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 3 May 2020 | Acts 17:10-15 //
Keith Cooper | Greater Nobility //
We need to know the Word. We have such ready access to the bible, there can be no excuse for failing to read and take in these precious truths. //
//
We must approach the word of God humbly, with an open heart. He still speaks and reveals himself to us. //
//
The Bereans in this passage were willing to listen and in this they set a good example. A willingness to listen and a determination to keep Christ central will stand us in good stead as we face the uncertainties of life, contrasting them...
2020-05-0329 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper Contribution To The Expansion Of The State Of EmergencyOn this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper offers his contribution to the expansion of the state of emergency. He addresses topics such as the Nassau Centric Attitude of Government, A Plan For Re-Opening Family Islands, The Suffering of The Underprivileged, Food Assistance, Rental Assistance, The Return of Bahamians Abroad and more.
2020-04-2720 min
Freedom Church ChesterHe made a way (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday 12 April 2020 | He made a way //
Keith Cooper | Colossians 1:16 //
History is His Story, God’s story. His purposes are worked out through Jesus Christ. //
//
In Colossians 1:16 re read that all things created by him and for him; our purpose is to glorify God. That is the goal of our existence. //
//
Crucifixion was not unusual in Jesus’ time. But there was nothing usual about Jesus’ sacrifice. He voluntarily gave up his life. The earth shook. The sky darkened. The temple curtain separating God’s presence from the people, was torn in two. Despite what the Romans thought, it was Jesus, not them, wh...
2020-04-1228 min
Freedom Church ChesterGifts & talents (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 5 April 2020 | Vision & Values – Episode 5 //
Keith Cooper | Growth, Gifts & Talents //
Episode 5 considers Freedom Church’s value relating to gifts & talents, specifically: “Encouraging everyone to grow in faith, developing the gifts & talents God has given us”. As the UK and many other countries continue in lockdown, due to COVID-19, it is all the more important to reach out to one another, to encourage each other in the faith, to spur one another one and to show love and kindness to our neighbours and communities.
2020-04-0536 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper on COVID-19 and The Bahamian Economy (Dollars & Sense Podcast)On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper is a guest on the Dollars & Sense Podcast with Quinton Lightbourne, where he discusses COVID-19, the Bahamian economy, business, and more.
2020-04-0348 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper On COVID-19: Leadership and cooperation are required at this time.On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper addresses the economic hardships our people currently face, provides recommendations for the government and speaks about the importance of national unity.
2020-03-3016 minTeam Cooper PodcastChester Cooper MP & PLP Deputy Leader in this update on COVID-19, explains how to access social and financial assistance from government programsOn this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast , Mr. Cooper provides an update on COVID-19 and shares information on how to access social and financial assistance from government programs.
2020-03-2604 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper addresses constituents on COVID-19. He ask that they follow the order and health precautions. We will weather the storm.On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper provides an update on the novel COVID-19 virus, what our people should expect as we progress, and how Team Cooper can be of assistance to you.
2020-03-2005 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 16:16-24 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 23 February 2020 | Acts 16:16-24 //
Keith Cooper | Fighting Evil & Paying the Price //
Demonic spirits cannot be trusted with the gospel. In this passage we see Paul cast a demon out of a slave girl who was exploited by her so-called owners for selfish profit. //
//
Satan intends to rob us of the inheritance promised to us through Abraham and fulfilled in Christ. We are divinely empowered with weapons to fight against strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). Jesus regained the authority that Adam and Eve surrendered in the Garden of Eden.
2020-02-2345 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper at the Exuma Youth Symposium College Fair 2020 "Education is the great equalizer and empowerer"On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper speaks at the Exuma Youth Symposium College Fair 2020 an event sponsored by JA Bahamas and Team Cooper. Mr. Cooper shared his personal journey to entrepreneurial success, reiterated that education is the great equalizer, and talked about the future for Exuma.
Full scholarships were awarded at the event.
Participating institutions included Morgan State University, St. George’s University, LJM Maritime Academy, Middle Tennessee State University, University of Houston-Victoria, Georgia State University, Johnson & Wales University, BAMSI, BTVI, Lipscomb University, Point Park University, Lincoln University, and OSWEGO State Uni...
2020-02-1216 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 16:6-10 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 9 February 2020 | Acts 16:6-10 //
Keith Cooper | Where to, Lord? //
The Holy Spirit prevented the apostles from travelling in the direction they had intended. During this process of closing doors, God was teaching them an important lesson about actively seeking, discovering and hearing God’s direction. It is essential for followers of Christ to walk by faith. //
//
When seeking his direction, consider: //
//
1. The word of God //
2. Others’ wise counsel //
3. Whether the direction will result in blessing //
4. Running towards need //
5. Not overlooking what you love, the passion God has placed in you //
6. Reviewing your holy desires //
7. Prayer //
2020-02-0933 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper on A Vision for A Vibrant Economy at National Progressive InstituteOn this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper speaks at the National Progressive Institute and shares a vision for a vibrant Bahamian economy. He addresses key topics such as where we are now, people reform, poverty reform, technology reform, economic reform, the rescue of Abaco and Grand Bahama, ease of doing business, the orange economy, the green economy, the blue economy, marijuana industry, entrepreneurship, education and a lot more.
2020-02-0735 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper on the future of Financial ServicesOn this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper speaks in the House of Assembly for the first time in the year 2020. He talks about the future of the financial services industry in The Bahamas, highlighting key issues such as the lack of financial institutions in Family Islands, the inclination of Canadian banks to diminish their presence in the Caribbean and more.
2020-02-0627 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 15:5-21 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 5 January 2020 | Acts 15:5-12 //
Keith Cooper | The Evidence Decides It //
Some Jews considered that the Mosaic law should be applied to the new Gentile converts. This meant, for example, subjecting the new believers to circumcision. //
//
Peter makes the point that God has shown his approval of the Gentiles by giving them the gift of the Holy Spirit – without asking any additional legal requirements of them. Since God is not showing favouritism, the Jews should not subject the Gentiles to any form of bondage. Their confession of faith and the presence of the Holy Spirit was evidence enough that they were ac...
2020-01-0529 min
Freedom Church ChesterConsider Jesus - part 2 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 22nd December 2019 | John 1:1-2 //
Keith Cooper | Consider Jesus (part 2) //
As John begins in v1 he does not speak of the ‘Word of God’, but of the word who was with God, and was God. John is telling us how things have been from all eternity. For John the Word is revealing the man: Jesus Christ. //
//
1. Jesus Christ shares God’s eternity. //
2. Jesus Christ was eternally with God. //
3. Jesus Christ is one with God.
2019-12-2229 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper Has No Confidence In Minnis: "Listen to the voice of the people"On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper makes it known that he has no confidence in the leadership of Prime Minister Hubert Minnis. He addresses key topics such as The Courageous Rebel Seven of the FNM, Minnis awarding a contract to Brent Symonette while he was in office, Minnis misleading with the OBAN Agreement and more. He also makes it known that he believes the rules must be for all, not just some.
2019-12-1229 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper on Aviation Industry: We must empower air ambulances for residents in the family islands to save lives, making The Exumas a healthcare and aviation hub for The South & Central Bahamas & more...On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper addresses the aviation industry. He speaks on topics such as how the empowerment of air ambulances for residents of the family islands can save lives, making The Exumas a healthcare and aviation hub for The South & Central Bahamas and more.
2019-12-0525 minTeam Cooper PodcastPLP Deputy Leader, Chester Cooper says "Minnis must resign!"On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper speaks about the preoccupation of the current administration with persecuting PLP's. He also addresses the continued suffering of the Bahamian people under the current administration.
2019-12-0412 minTeam Cooper PodcastWe Oppose The New BPL TaxOn this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper makes a special announcement to the Bahamian people and talks about the New BPL Tax, which he opposes.
2019-11-2833 minTeam Cooper PodcastCooper on Morning Rush 96.9FM: "We will advance our country!"On this episode of the Team Cooper Podcast, Mr. Cooper joins Guardian Radio as a guest where he speaks about his upbringing, business life, entrance into frontline politics, how we uplift and empower our people, national disaster management and a plethora of other questions.
2019-11-2639 minTeam Cooper PodcastFor Economic Growth: More Action; Less TalkMr. Cooper speaks on how the government of The Bahamas can add more action to a lot of their big announcements. He addresses topics such as Economic Growth, The Ease of Doing Business, Legitimate Foreign Direct Investment, Encouraging Domestic Investment, Financial Services Industry Issues, and The National Development Plan.
2019-11-2511 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 14:8-20 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 24 November 2019 | Acts 14:8-20 //
Keith Cooper | Same Story, Different Reaction //
The key word in the story of a crippled man, healed by Paul, is ‘faith’. This is not a difficult concept once we believe in a big God and a small Satan. This powerful God sent Jesus to save us. In the gospels Jesus repeatedly indicates that faith is involved in the process of healing and salvation. //
//
Healing is not primarily about the person who has faith though; it is about the God who heals. God in his divine wisdom allows some sickness and infirmity to endure. But in other case...
2019-11-2433 minTeam Cooper PodcastProtect Our Environment! (Environmental Bills Contribution Nov 20th, 2019)On November 20th, 2019 Mr. Cooper provided his contribution to the compendium of environmental bills. He addressed key topics such as environmental stewardship, The Oban Deal, The Equinor Oil Spill, Carnival Cruise Dumping, The Plastic Ban, Poaching of Marine Resources, Dumping on Exuma, Exuma Pride and Hurricane Dorian.
2019-11-2324 minTeam Cooper PodcastThe Conch Salad Bill (House of Assembly Contribution Nov 6th, 2019)On the 6th of November 2019, Mr. Cooper provided his contribution to the Disaster Recovery Authority Bill 2019. He addressed how this bill continues to add to the bureaucracy present in our country, despite the Prime Minister's promise to slash red tape. The level of inefficiency persist with this Conch Salad Bill.
2019-11-1731 minTeam Cooper PodcastDisaster Preparedness Amendment 2019 (October 16th, 2019)On the 16th of October 2019, Mr. Cooper provided his contribution to the Disaster Preparedness and Response Bill 2019. He addressed some of the key issues our people are dealing with Post-Dorian.
2019-11-1429 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 12:24-13:3 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 20 October 2019 | Acts 12:24-13:3 //
Keith Cooper | The Start of Missions //
A central theme of Acts is the word of God spreading and the church growing. This is all in accordance with the sovereign will of God, under the direction of the Holy Spirit. //
//
Some points on direction: //
//
1. The Holy Spirit brings personal direction. His plans are always better than ours. Obedience is the key to understanding his will. //
2. Start with things you know you ought to do. (Prayer, reading the Bible, worship.) //
3. Do God’s will from the heart. //
4. The Holy Spirit brings corporate direction into mission work, from local ch...
2019-10-2036 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 12:1-17 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 6 October 2019 | Acts 12:1-17 //
Keith Cooper | Herod versus a praying church //
Herod was ready to do whatever it would take to increase his popularity. He has had James (the brother of John) killed and his sights are set on Peter. But the church prayed earnestly. And God arranged a rescue. //
//
Our natural, default response, in every situation, should be to pray. In good times, in bad. In sorrow, in joy. Things happen in response to prayer that will not happen otherwise. This is how God chooses to operate in this world.
2019-10-0630 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 10:44-48 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 15 September 2019 | Acts 10:44-48 //
Keith Cooper | God's confirmation //
1. Be filled with the Holy Spirit. You cannot be saved without him. But God pours out his Spirit willingly to all who come to him. //
//
In this filling we experience the love of Christ. He fills us with his joy. And we receive gifts. //
//
2. God works according to his own sovereign will. He will fulfil his purposes in his way at his time. He does not have favourites and he cannot be contained. //
//
3. God is still looking for Spirit-filled men and women of faith and action. People who live in complete dependence...
2019-09-1536 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 10:23b-43 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 8 September 2019 | Acts 10:23b-43 //
Keith Cooper | To the Gentiles //
God is changing Peter’s heart as he prepares him for ministry to the Gentiles. This involves overcoming a lifetime of teaching that the Gentiles were excluded from God’s plans. //
//
There is no salvation apart from Jesus. God in his good purposes chose Cornelius and Peter to be a key part of the plan, formed before the beginning of time, to bring the Gentiles into the family of God.
2019-09-0832 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 10:1-23a (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 1 September 2019 | Acts 10:1-23a //
Keith Cooper | Visions and Menus //
This is a pivotal chapter, concerned with the grafting of the Gentiles into the Christian church. Peter was to be used sovereignly by God for this specific mission. This was a process spanning many years.
God works according to his own timing and plan. We can trust his methods and timeline. His word will come to pass; no person can prevent this. //
//
Cornelius was a ‘model’ religious person. But he did not know Jesus as his Saviour. Here we are God plants the seeds of change and salvation in Cornelius. Reli...
2019-09-0142 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 9:19b-31 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 11 August 2019 | Acts 9:19b-31 //
Keith Cooper | A New Direction //
Paul’s original mission to persecute Christians, was so well known that his change of heart caused great confusion. This confusion quickly turned into murderous intent. But Paul now considered it a privilege to suffer and be persecuted for the sake of Jesus Christ. //
//
Paul understood what he had been saved from. He valued the treasure that he had received: a relationship with Christ and the gift of eternal life and redemption. This drove his passion to preach and share his new faith.
2019-08-1143 min
Freedom Church ChesterAct 8:26-40 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 28 July 2019 | Acts 8:26-40 //
Keith Cooper | Divine Appointments //
Philip willingly travelled to spread the gospel, despite persecution, because of the love God have given him for people’s souls. He listened well to the Holy Spirit’s direction and brought the enlightenment of the scriptures and the revelation of Christ to the people he met. And Philip obeyed God, going where he was sent and speaking as he was directed. //
//
As Philip explained to the eunuch, all of scripture points to Jesus. The passage confusing the eunuch could only be understood in the light of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
2019-07-2837 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 7 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 14 July 2019 | Acts 7 //
Keith Cooper | Stephen’s reply //
Stephen delivers an empowered speech, in faith tracing the story of God’s grace to his people from Abraham onwards. An overriding theme was that God’s most devout followers made him the Lord of their lives. //
//
We see this in Joseph, who became the vessel of God’s salvation during a time of famine, and in Moses, who led the captive Israelites out of servitude in Egypt. Having led the Jews to safety, Moses was then rejected by the people, who turned to false gods. In a similar way, says Stephen, first ce...
2019-07-1447 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 4:23-37 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 23 June 2019 | Acts 4:23-37 //
Keith Cooper | One Heart and Soul //
The disciples' knee-jerk reaction to persecution was to raise their voices in praise to God. They recognised that God was fully in control and that his authority was delegated to them, to preach his hand and spread the gospel. //
//
Exercising our authority in Christ: //
1. The Word of God is warfare //
2. Authority is found in the name of Jesus //
3. Remind Satan the blood of Jesus Christ defeated him //
4. Stand in the power of the Holy Spirit //
5. Live together in God-given spiritual unity //
6. The word of our testimony is potent truth //
//
The...
2019-06-2347 min
Freedom Church ChesterActs 2:14-41 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 26 May 2019 | Acts 2:14-41 //
Keith Cooper | Gospel Preaching //
God gives his Spirit to anyone who comes to Jesus Christ. So now in Acts 2, Peter extends that same mercy to the crowd that have gathered together on the day of Pentecost. But first of all he explains the what, the how and the why of what had just happened before their eyes...
2019-05-2636 min
Freedom Church ChesterEsther 9-10 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Resurrection Sunday, 21 April 2019 | Esther 9-10 //
Keith Cooper | A World Turned Upside Down (Jesus the better reversal) //
//
The story of Esther demonstrates that the power of death can be overcome. There is a picture here of a God who fights for his people, who will not abandon them. The devil’s efforts to eliminate God’s chosen people will always fail. //
//
On Resurrection Sunday, we see clearly that the threat of death must give way to Almighty God. Crucifying Jesus was the biggest mistake Satan ever made. Jesus is now and always will be our Saviour.
2019-04-2119 min
Freedom Church ChesterEsther 6 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 31 March 2019 | Keith Cooper //
Esther 6 | Warning Signals (Jesus the better servant) //
//
Once again the hand of God is invisibly at work in the life of King Ahasuerus. Through a night of insomnia, God uses the king to advance his plans. //
//
God is not in a hurry, but also he is never late. Mordecai simply needed to wait patiently in order to see the providence of God. Haman intended to spend a day anticipating the execution of Mordecai. Instead he was compelled, by God’s good pleasure, to spend the day honouring him. //
//
So we see God’s good plans for his...
2019-03-3131 min
Freedom Church ChesterEsther 3 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 10 March 2019 | Keith Cooper //
Esther 3 | Mordecai Makes a Stand //
//
Haman was descended from a nation that had been a long-standing enemy of the Jewish people. King Saul had not obeyed God and completely destroyed the Amalekites. Instead he had left descendents - descendants with a grudge. These descendants of the Amalekites now represented the devil's plan to destroy God's people. //
//
King Ahasuerus honoured Haman and required all people to bow down to him. Mordecai, who owed such duty to God alone, declined to do so. And thus the ongoing enmity between the Jews and their oppressors escalates. //
//
Conflict and threats...
2019-03-1036 min
Freedom Church ChesterEsther 1 (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 24 February 2019 | Keith Cooper //
Esther 1 | Standing firm (Jesus the better King) //
King Xerxes was a proud man and he loved to boast about himself. But no matter where he thought his authority came from; all authority comes from God alone. Xerxes’ actions were subject to the plans of God, as we shall see as the story of Esther unfolds.
2019-02-2433 min
Freedom Church Chester2019-02-03 - Keep it up - Keith CooperSunday, 3 February 2019 | Keith Cooper //
Galatians 6:7-10 | Keep it up //
//
The religious amongst the Galatians were mistaking the point of the gospel – focusing on their appearance and neglecting the poor and needy. God ordains that we reap where we sow. They were sowing self-centredness and self-righteousness – the deep desires of the flesh. That, Paul says will result in a harvest of corruption. //
//
Rather, a generous spirit, an open-handedness with that which we have received from God after all, will produce a harvest of blessing and righteousness. Paul enjoins us to work hard, to do good to all. Not because we are moti...
2019-02-0329 min
Freedom Church ChesterGospel Character (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 20 January 2019 | Keith Cooper //
Galatians 5:16-26 | Gospel Character //
//
God has lovingly accepted us, so we are free to be motivated to do good works. But the sinful flesh within us is in conflict with the Spirit of God at work in us. Further, the law brings its own challenge: we strain against the law and break it. //
//
We need to add our will to the Spirit’s leading, so that we voluntarily yield to God’s perfect path for our lives. We need to ensure that we are worshipping God, not idols, not anything or anyone that will turn our hear...
2019-01-2029 min
Freedom Church ChesterGrace To The Barren (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 06 January 2019 | Keith Cooper //
Galatians 4:21-31 | Grace to the Barren //
The law can’t bring life or fruitfulness: Legalism is barren. So if the church goes back to the slavery of the law it will mean barrenness and disobedience to the word of God. It is only by grace that the church can be fruitful and spread across the world.
2019-01-0631 min
Freedom Church ChesterMessiah prefigured (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 16 December 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Genesis 22:1-14/Jonah 2 | Messiah prefigured //
//
Adam, Isaac, Jonah – and others – in their different ways foreshadowed Jesus – the Word who became flesh. They help us to understand the reason why Jesus came. They point us to the only One in whom we should put our hope – the One whose birth we particularly celebrate at this time of year.
2018-12-1629 min
Freedom Church ChesterLove's appeal (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 2 December 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Galatians 4:12-20 | Love’s Appeal //
//
It is possible that Paul had caught malaria and was travelling with the illness. This could account for why Paul looked so unwell, which could also have affected the appearance and function of his eyes. Whatever the case, there would have been some reason for people of his culture to shun him, given their fear of visible illnesses and deformities. And yet the Galatians received Paul with love, refusing to judge him by his appearance. //
//
God uses the most unlikely people, often when they feel most inadequate. Then he is most gl...
2018-12-0236 min
Freedom Church ChesterDon't go back (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 18 November 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Galatians 4:8-11 | Don’t Go Back //
God is engaged in a war to recapture our hearts, tearing down idols, bringing us home. The Galatians were turning back to idols. Paul feels the pain of this betrayal and expresses his dismay. //
//
The law can diagnose the disease, but it cannot produce the cure. The only way is grace and it is grace against which the Galatians have turned their backs. //
//
The antidote to idols, whatever the idol might be, is Jesus Christ.
2018-11-1829 min
Freedom Church ChesterLaw’s Curse, Faith’s Blessing (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 28 October 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Galatians 3:10-14 | Law’s Curse, Faith’s Blessing //
//
The person who relies on the law is not operating in faith. That person CAN NOT please God. Law demands COMPLETE obedience to the WHOLE law. Breaking just one law results in the curse of God as if every law was broken. The law brings curse, not blessing. //
//
The just shall live by faith in Christ. Jesus, through his shameful death, crucifixion, took the full weight of shame and guilt that the law would impose on us. The curse is removed and we receive that benefit through accepting his...
2018-10-2828 min
Freedom Church ChesterGrace: free, yet priceless (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 14 October 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Galatians 2:17-21 | Grace: free, yet priceless //
Paul deals with the argument against grace. Misunderstanding the free gift of grace, some people were becoming blasé about sin causing a decline in their behaviour. Paul bluntly states that this is to miss the point entirely. //
//
And just because grace is freely given, that doesn’t mean it was free. Christ paid a heavy, heavy price to achieve this, in being beaten, mocked, crucified, experiencing the righteous anger of God as he took on all sin, and ultimately being separated from his father. //
//
Now for us, having been saved by...
2018-10-1428 min
Freedom Church ChesterDedication & baptisms (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 30 September 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Psalm 112 | Dedication & baptisms //
One of the greatest promises in the Bible is that those who follow Jesus Christ will have eternal life. God’s way and his provision is the only way. //
//
In today’s meeting, parents commit their baby daughter to the lifelong journey of learning about God. Meanwhile, two members of the same family take the step of obedience to Jesus, by undergoing baptism by full immersion.
2018-09-3032 min
Freedom Church ChesterBorn Free! (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 16 September 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Galatians 1:13-24 | Born Free! //
//
Paul, mindful of who he was prior to conversion and of how he met Christ, was determined to preach only the true gospel. This message of grace and hope was given to him by God and no other. All the glory and praise was to go to God and God alone. //
//
This message of grace is hard for us to understand. We use words like ‘deserve’ and ‘fair’. We think that those with a better standard of living deserve to be saved more then those who are obvious sinners. When the wicked repent a...
2018-09-1628 min
Freedom Church ChesterGospel Truth (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 2 September 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Galatians 1:1-5 | Gospel Truth //
//
We often struggle with the feeling that we need to earn the love of God. This is contrary to the teaching of scripture. There’s nothing we can do: it’s entirely a free act of grace on the part of God. It can’t be earned; it can only be received.//
//
Paul writing this letter offers by way of credentials his calling from God. We are wise if we follow God’s calling on our lives, directed by scripture, confirmed through prophecy. This provides a position of faith, an ongoing assurance through easy...
2018-09-0235 min
Freedom Church ChesterNoah III (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 12 August 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Genesis 8 | Noah – Part III //
//
God remembers us. He remembers his promises to us. He keeps his promises. //
//
After the storm, God renews life. Noah, as a kind of second Adam, is intimately involved in the re-creation of the earth. Noah operated in faith, waiting on God and completing the tasks God assigns him. We too would do well to wait on God, to understand how to do the right things at the right time with the right motives.
2018-08-1233 min
Freedom Church ChesterNoah I (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 29 July 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Genesis 6 | Noah – Part I //
//
Time after time, God’s people drift into apathy and rebellion. Every time, God raises up a remnant. Noah and his family were such a remnant, through whom God demonstrated his constant, consistent plan to save mankind. //
//
The thing that set Noah apart from the rest of humanity was that he listened to God, and in faith, acted on what he believed God to be saying. He valued obedience higher than his own dignity.
2018-07-2936 min
Freedom Church ChesterCain and Abel (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 15 July 2018 | Keith Cooper
Genesis 4:1-7 | Cain and Abel
Although Adam and Eve had rebelled against God, they continued to have a relationship with him. We see them give praise to God for the blessing of their children.
Two of their children, Cain and Abel, are pictured in the continuing tragic story of sin. God, knowing the heart of man, rejects Cain’s sacrifice given as it was with impure motives; he accepts Abel’s. God, whose heart is always towards forgiveness, issues a warning to Cain, lest his sin get the better of him.
In the story we see God’s...
2018-07-1527 min
Freedom Church ChesterThe Pain (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 1 July 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Genesis 3:16-19 | The Pain //
//
God's love of sinners in no way eliminates his hatred of sin. In today's passage we see God continue to pronounce his judgment on the sin of Adam and Eve. We notice however how even within the judgment, God's supreme love for his children is evident.
2018-07-0131 min
Freedom Church ChesterThe Blame Game (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 17 June 2018 | Keith Cooper
Genesis 3:8-13 | The Blame Game
Notice how quickly things changed, how easily the relationship with God was spoiled. Eve was deceived and Adam chose to disobey God. Consequently, they were ashamed – indeed sin and disobedience should cause us to feel ashamed. We must listen to our consciences. If we ignore our consciences, we train ourselves to do wrong.
God graciously gives the couple an opportunity to confess and repent. He is always calling to people to listen to him, to obey, to turn back to him. We must take responsibility for our sin and disobedience. Excuses an...
2018-06-1727 min
Freedom Church ChesterPerfect Match (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 27 May 2018 | Keith Cooper //
Genesis 2:18-25 | Perfect Match //
//
This is the first time in Genesis we see that something is ‘not good’. God himself knows what Adam needs in order for creation to be complete. Adam needs a helper. And none of the animals was a suitable helper. //
//
God has not made us to be alone. In marriage, he makes provision for us, knowing our needs. But more than that: marriage ultimately is an illustration of the loving relationship between Christ and the church. We are Christ’s bride; we come before him in purity and through our worship, with acts o...
2018-05-2726 min
Freedom Church ChesterGod's Image (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 29 April 2018 | Keith Cooper
Genesis 1:26-31 | God’s Image
‘Us’ here is not a matter of grammar; it’s matter of theology. God is one in three persons.
We are the image and likeness of the living God. This includes a duty for us to act with dominion and responsible authority over his creation.
The truth that we are made in God’s image is so important it’s repeated three times in this passage. Being made in his image includes having the power of choice – between life and death, good and evil, love and hate.
Since the fall, we present a dama...
2018-04-2927 min
Freedom Church ChesterFrom Form to Filling (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 22 April 2018 | Keith Cooper
Genesis 1:14-25 | From Form to Filling
We are to worship the one true God who made the heavenly hosts.
There’s a very small step between admiration and worship. Even today people head in the direction of worshipping or over-emphasising the stars and creation (at the expense of worship of the Creator).
In this passage we discover a God who delights in his creation. Creation itself is an expression of God’s glory. Creation should lead us to ask the question, “What must the Creator be like?”
This Creator is the only One worthy of our worship.
2018-04-2226 min
Freedom Church ChesterThe great exchange (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 25 March 2018 | Keith Cooper
2 Corinthians 5: 21 | The great exchange
“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
Have we become desensitised to sin? We’re liars and cheats and gossipers. And we things that’s okay; we overlook it.
Adam’s great sin in the garden of Eden was doing nothing – nothing to prevent the sin of Eve. The truth is that many of us are doing nothing. None of us is righteous, no not one. (Romans 3:10)
God cannot tolerate sin. The great wonder is that God hol...
2018-03-2528 min
Freedom Church ChesterTo God Be The Glory (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 25 February 2018 | Keith Cooper
So often we don’t make the gospel good enough. We sprinkle it with fear and we sprinkle it with death. Paul reminds us that there is joy in the gospel; joy in the preaching of the gospel. And we do it for God’s glory and because of his grace.
In this final stretch of Romans (15:25-16:27), Paul emphasises:
- The practical impact of the gospel
- The essential importance of prayer – earnest, heartfelt, persistent prayer
- His personal appreciation of the work of the saints
- The value and necessity of praising God
2018-02-2535 min
Freedom Church ChesterCome like a child (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 4 February 2018 | Keith Cooper
Mark 10:13-16. Jesus’ attitude here may have been a shock to the Jews. Boys were not considered significant until the age of 13; girls never so. Jesus’ counter-culture attitude reveals his loving heart. Further, Jesus demonstrates that salvation comes through a dependent, childlike faith.
2018-02-0420 min
Freedom Church ChesterThe Fulfilment (preacher: Keith Cooper)Keith Cooper
Romans 9:30-10:21. In this talk we discuss the paradoxical relationship between God’s sovereignty and our human responsibility.
One moment, Paul is explaining the 100% Sovereignty of God and a moment later he tells us that we have complete responsibly for how we behave. The conclusion, it is God’s action alone that saves someone and secondly, it is because of people’s rejection of the gospel that they are lost. Ultimately we need Jesus...
2017-12-1039 min
Freedom Church ChesterFREE (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 19 November 2017 | Keith Cooper
Romans 8: this chapter highlights the most amazing, wonderful news...
"In Christ" we are not condemned! In fact, 'in Christ' we have been set free. This is much stronger than simply saying 'I am not condemned'; it is that there is no condemnation at all - there is no possibility of it.
Not only are you not condemned, you can never and will never be condemned, in Christ.
2017-11-1939 min
Crazy Chester Radio HourCrazy Chester Radio Hour Episode #06: Dick CooperDick Cooper is a Muscle Shoals based photographer and music historian. He started out as a journalist before becoming Barry Beckett’s production assistant at Muscle Shoals Sound studios where he also took many now legendary photos. He was also tour manager for LeBlanc & Carr, The Rossington Band and Drive-By Truckers as well as the curator at the Alabama Music Hall of Fame. Dick Cooper hosts three annual parties on his property that have achieved legendary status and attract a who’s who of Muscle Shoals musicians. The Crazy Chester Radio Hour is created and hosted by record producer Andreas Wern...
2017-11-1048 min
Freedom Church ChesterDying to Live (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 5 November 2017 | Keith Cooper
Does grace mean that we can carry on sinning? Paul says “No”. Grace means that we can live in victory over sin. Our identity now is not in sin, but in Christ’s death and resurrection.
Keith continues our study in Romans, expanding chapter 6.
2017-11-0525 min
Freedom Church ChesterHe Believed God (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 15 October 2017 | Keith Cooper
Keith preaches today from Chapter 4 of the book of Romans. A key theme in this chapter is that “Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness.”
Paul here gives examples (in the form of Abraham and Kind David) of the way in which justification works. The kind of people God declares to be righteous are people of faith. Abraham was justified in Christ by faith, even before the time Christ’s sacrifice had occurred. Everyone at every point in history must come to God in the same way, through the same door.
It helps...
2017-10-1532 min
Freedom Church ChesterCall yourself a Christian? (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 24 September 2017 | Keith Cooper
God chose Israel so they could be a light to the world, but they broke his law, pursuing idols and making a fake display of piety. Others see this sort of hypocrisy and use it as a reason to blaspheme God.
What we do in our personal lives matter; it is ultimately reflected in our public lives. We cannot suppress it. People see through the masks we wear. Religion and self-effort will only lead to empty faith. Our world needs authenticity.
God has a solution to all this! The Holy Spirit can change our hearts, transforming...
2017-09-2431 min
Freedom Church ChesterReady for Rome! (preacher: Keith Cooper)Sunday, 10 September 2017 | Keith Cooper
We’re sitting as jury and as the accused when we approach Romans. We are guilty, as rebellious humans. Here is the only solution to our rebellion, our only defence. This is the gospel of God.
This book is essential for understanding sanctification, justification, the deity of Christ and the righteousness of God. This is the gospel that transforms lives. This gospel does the one thing no other power can do: it saves you.
Keith preaches from Romans 1:1-17
2017-09-1036 min
Freedom Church ChesterOur Glorious Hope (preacher: Keith Cooper)One day we'll finally be at home with our Creator. This is where true joy is to be found. This hope is our glorious certainty. What then do we have to fear?
Keith Cooper preaches from John 14:1-16.
2017-07-3033 min