Shows
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 32: Good Fruit or Bad Fruit?Send us a textMatthew 7:15-23 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Good Fruit or Bad Fruit."This part of the sermon on the Mount warns against false prophets and prophesying. One of the greatest litmus tests for determining if someone is a false prophet is by their fruits. Since the days of the Old Testament, there have always been false prophets. Sometimes false prophets look pretty good in what they do. Notice the contrasts in this section: sheep’s clothing vs. wolves, good vs. bad, doing the Father’s will vs. doing works of l...2025-06-0830 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson **: Jesus Our HelperSend us a textNote (this episode is out of order to accommodate a routine request and the series number will be updated later).Matthew 11:28-30 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Jesus, Our Helper."What happens when a foot slips? There's no warning, so we aren't prepared for it! And usually, someone is watching. the Bible talks about a foot slipping in But afterwards, you get back up and keep going. Psalm 94:17-19. "Unless the Lord had been my help, my soul had almost dwelt in silence. When I said, My...2025-05-3126 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 27: The Lord's Prayer (Pt 4)Send us a textMatthew 6:9-13 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Lord's Prayer (Pt. 4) Forgiveness."This portion of Jesus' prayer example teaches us why forgiveness is so important and the reciprocal nature of forgiveness. Curtis reviews what forgiveness IS and what it is NOT, as well as discussing the word "trespass" by exploring the Old and New Testament meanings of the words translated as "sin." He touches on the parable of the unforgiving debtor, Jesus' forgiveness of the sins of those he healed, and how forgiveness shows up at the Last Supper.2025-05-0133 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 25: The Lord's Prayer (Pt 2)Send us a textMatthew 6:9-13 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Lord's Prayer (Pt. 2)."We all long for a better world. God’s kingdom breaks into the kingdoms of the world in a transformative way. The kingdom is not the same thing as the church. They do overlap, but they are not equal.Think of it like this…The kingdom of God is the ruling/reigning of God from his sovereign capacity over the entire world. The church is the visible kingdom of God made up of Christians who compose the...2025-03-2529 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 24: The Lord's Prayer (Pt. 1)Send us a textMatthew 6:9-13 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Lord's Prayer (Part 1)."Jesus had just condemned the hypocritical way of praying. He had also talked about the concerns about prayer and how to pray. In today’s passage, Jesus now provides a model or framework on how to pray.In Christian history, there has been much discussion on whether this is only an outline, or if it should it be prayed word for word in order to be effective. Our lesson today explores the first part of this iconic pr...2025-03-2431 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 23: Jesus' Teaching on FastingSend us a textMatthew 6:16-18 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Jesus' Teaching on Fasting."To understand Fasting, we start with a definition: fasting is to deny physical eating or pleasure to draw closer to God. Three Biblical examples are David, Esther, and Jesus. The purpose of fasting is to seek God's guidance (Acts 13:2-3) and to express repentance and sorrow for sin (Joel 2:12-13). Curtis summarizes the history of Christian practice and the spiritual benefits of fasting.1.Fasting encourages closeness with God by deepening our relationship and de...2025-03-1628 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 22: Jesus' Teaching on PrayingSend us a textMatthew 6:5-8 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Jesus' Teaching on Praying."We are not to pray like the hypocrites, a word for actor that comes from ancient Greek theater. Jesus listed two places where those seeking attention would go to pray: synagogues and street corners. And Jesus instructs Christians to pray in secret, spending alone-time in communication with God. Another admonition was not to pray with empty phrases as did some pagan religions who tried to "wear down" their gods with numerous repetitions of the same request over and...2025-03-0929 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 21: Jesus' Teaching on GivingSend us a textMatthew 6:1-4 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Jesus' Teaching on Giving."A. Jesus addresses 3 acts of piety/righteousness that can be exaggerated for show. These are giving alms, praying, and fasting (or other acts of devotion). B. The wrong motivation is repeated three times: to be seen by men, and to be praised by others.C. If you approach your faith this way, you will receive no reward from our Father in heaven.D. External practice of religion means they “have received their reward.”Jesus...2025-03-0829 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 20: Be Perfect As God Is PerfectSend us a textMatthew 5:43-48 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Be Perfect As God Is Perfect."Continuing his sermon on the mount, Jesus turns the audience toward a hard truth. God expects them to be better than the examples they had at that time--most Pharisees were NOT good examples of God's expectations for His people. They were harsh and exacting, particularly when it came to Gentiles and the occupying tyrants of Rome. Jesus contrasts their pitiful examples with the real expectations of God.Curtis provides 9 practical examples of how to...2025-02-1023 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 14: The PeacemakersSend us a textMatthew 5:9 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Seventh Beatitude: The Peacemakers."This beatitude connects with our self-identity as sons of God! The term "peacemakers" is only used here in the entire Bible. Peace-making is intentional in nature and goes to the core of both covenant thinking and a ministry of reconciliation. The apostle Paul expresses it this way in Romans 12:18, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”This idea of peace is a Jewish Hebrew Bible concept: shalom. There were many instructions in t...2025-02-0828 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 17: The Birth of ChristSend us a textMatthew 1:18-2:12 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Birth of Christ."As Christmas approaches, Curtis brings us the old story of Joseph, Mary, and the birth of the Son of God into our world. When we began the study of Matthew, we skipped over this passage to save it for this week when so many around the world think back to the coming of Emmanuel, "God with us." The lesson opens with the reading of the history of Gabriel's announcements to Mary and to Joseph. As they tried to...2025-02-0828 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 16: Salt and LightSend us a textMatthew 5:13-16 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Salt and Light."This portion of Jesus' sermon on the mount introduces the metaphors of salt and light. This passage follows just after the Beatitudes, a crucial placement to turn the attention of the audience outward toward the world exuding the influence of Christians. Like his parables, the reference to simple salt and light teach profound spiritual truths. Salt is very powerful as a preservative, a booster of savory flavor, and in Bible times represented wealth. The second metaphor is L...2025-02-0830 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 15: The 8th Beatitude - The PersecutedSend us a textMatthew 5:10-12 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Eighth Beatitude: The Persecuted."This blessing is a reminder that the Christian life is not an easy one. Primary reference to the context of this persecution is within God’s covenant people: religious leaders against the prophets; religious leaders against Jesus; religious leaders against Jesus’ followers. This is important because we tend to think only of persecution from pagans toward Christians.Curtis discusses what format our current-world persecutions can take, and points out that regardless of the earthly motivations of o...2025-02-0832 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 19: Jesus' Teaching on AngerSend us a textMatthew 5:21-26 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Jesus' Teaching about Anger."Anger is mentioned 14 times in the New Testament. Here are a few for us to look at:•Galatians 5: 19-21 – Works of the flesh (include wrath, hatred, strife)•Eph. 4:26 – Put a time limit on anger•Eph. 6:4 – parents, don’t provoke your children to wrath•1 Tim. 2:8 – pray without anger•James 1:19-20 – slow to wrath, man’s wrath doesn’t work God’s righteousness.Rich Walters wrote a book called Anger: Yours, Mine, and What to Do about It, 1981. He...2025-02-0826 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 18: Christ Fulfilled the LawSend us a textMatthew 5:17-20 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Fulfillment of the Law & Prophets."A. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus underscores why he came.B. Jesus indicates his relationship to the Law and the ProphetsC. His coming did not threaten the practice of the law and prophetic messages.D. Significant insight regarding Jesus’ roll of fulfillment.E. He clearly understood his role.Instead of thinking about the Old Testament as something that was done away with, it is more correct to think of...2025-02-0831 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 12: Fifth Beatitude, The MercifulSend us a textMatthew 5:7 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Fifth Beatitude: The Merciful."The Christian principle of mercy brings blessings. Mercy could be called a “boomerang” moral principle since the exercise of mercy tends to elicit mercy from God and others. Notice again the divine passive form of the verb, "They shall receive mercy." We must be open to receive it as God’s gift!"Merciful" is an adjective meaning "full of pity, compassionate, acting consistently with the revelation of God's covenant. Matthew's gospel opens with the story of Joseph's mercy...2025-01-2430 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 11: Fourth Beatitude, Spiritual Hunger and ThirstSend us a textMatthew 5:6 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Fourth Beatitude: Spiritual Hunger and Thirst."What did Jesus mean when He proclaimed a blessing for those who "hunger and thirst after righteous"? In this Beatitude, Jesus provides the insight of how blessed disciples are when they partake of spiritual manna! He represents himself as the living bread that we can eat and never die! Spiritual thirst is built by God into every human heart. A thirsting and craving for God is a reversal of what the normal human being thirsts fo...2025-01-2433 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 13: Sixth Beatitude, Pure in HeartSend us a textMatthew 5:8 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Sixth Beatitude: Pure in Heart."This 6th beatitude emphasizes the importance of purity of heart as a core value for Christians, contrasting it with the first century Pharisees' focus on ritual rather than true spiritual presence. The biblical meaning of "heart" in both the Old and New Testaments is the center of one's inner self, mind, and will. A "pure" (katharos) heart is clean, guiltless, and free from sin, both in a literal and spiritual sense.The happy reward of a...2025-01-2415 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 10: The Third Beatitude - The MeekSend us a textMatthew 5:5 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Third Beatitude: The Meek."The Bible provides rich examples of the virtue known as "meekness". Curtis explores several examples in Matthew, in the rest of the New Testament, and then finally in the Old Testament that show the force of a person who controls their strength with compassion and forbearance. He describes 10 beautiful applications of this beatitude in our lives today.2024-11-0532 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 09: Those Who MournSend us a textMatthew 5:4 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Second Beatitude: Those Who Mourn."What does the New Testament mean by the verb "to mourn"? We review the basic meaning of the Greek word and look at a number of verses that provide examples of mourning for the harm to or loss of people, tragic events, poor spiritual health, and sin. - Mt. 9:15 wedding guests mourn when the bridegroom is taken away- Mt. 24:30 tribulation of spiritual warfare- I Cor. 5:2 sexual immoralityAnd what does Jesu...2024-11-0531 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 08: Intro to Sermon on the Mount and 1st BeatitudeSend us a textMatthew 5:1-3 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount & First Beatitude: The Poor in Spirit.The purpose of the lesson is to help us embrace the “kingdom mindset” that sees the world differently on behalf of Jesus. A person poor in spirit is one whose humility characterizes the heart of discipleship, who depend completely on God and His mercy. Totally missing is the notion of arrogantly relying on self alone. Jesus' own example of humility--from the King of Heaven to the One who stooped to h...2024-10-2632 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 07: Jesus and the CrowdsSend us a textMatthew 4:23-28 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Jesus and the Crowds."Jesus' ministry was in a very limited geographical area (Galilee, Decapolis, Judea, Jerusalem, trans-Jordan). His ministry was also teaching in their synagogues. In His ministry, He healed people who came to Him in crowds, towns, roads, etc. This healing was miraculous--immediate and indisputable! He healed the body, mind, soul, and relationships. In the gospel of Matthew more than the other three, the emphasis was on Jesus' interactions (ministry) with large crowds.2024-10-2625 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 6:Send us a textMatthew 4:18-22 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Jesus Calls Four Fishermen."Discipleship begins with answering the call. What does “Come, follow me” mean?a. They had to leave the old life. i.The called came immediately. ii.They left boat, father, family.b. English author A. B. Bruce called “The Training of the Twelve” asked the question, “What did Jesus do to train the called Apostles?”c. Great commission (Mt. 28 19-20) – Go into all the world and make disciples. d. It includes teaching as planting seeds. You cannot reap a har...2024-10-2333 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 05: Jesus the Light-BearerSend us a textMatthew 4:2-17 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Jesus, the Light-Bearer, Begins His Ministry."The purpose of this lesson it to remind us to live out the ministry of being a “light-bearer” as we follow in the steps of Jesus. Being a light-bearer means:A. We are attentive to the darkness and chaos around us.B. We sometimes withdraw instead of confront.C. We let our light shine in the power of the Spirit.D. We carry our light straight into the darknessE. We bear...2024-10-2024 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 04: Temptation of JesusSend us a textMatthew 4:1-11 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Temptation of Jesus."We can successfully overcome temptation by following the pattern and example Jesus provided for us. This testing came right after He was baptized. This confrontation was a verbal battle between Jesus and Satan, in which the tempter tries to divert the obedient Son of God from his path. One Christian writer contends that the underlying aspect of the conflict between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of this world is the whole plot of the gospel of...2024-10-0634 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 03: John the BaptizerSend us a textMatthew 3:1-12 is the text for this sermon entitled, "John the Baptizer."Note - Curtis skips chapter 2 to save it for the December sermons on Jesus' birth. John who is called 'the baptizer' could be referred to as the Harbinger of Hope. He cried out to the people to repent of their sins, for the Messiah was coming. He called them to be baptized in the Jordan River for repentance. His baptism was different from Jewish and Graeco-Roman ceremonial and ritual washings. John was different from other Jewish teachers of...2024-09-2739 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 02: Genealogy of JesusSend us a textMatthew 1:1-17 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Genealogy of Jesus."Matthew turns a dull genealogy to a reasoned defense for the universal nature of evangelism and the good news! He lays out the case to demonstrate that the Christ-promising God worked through Israel’s history to bring about his divine purposes. We learn a great deal about God the Father from this genealogy.Christ means the “Anointed One” or Messiah, a royal title rather than a last name. The Jewish Messianic expectation of the first century was a...2024-09-2729 min
Manna on the MountainMatthew Lesson 01: Introduction to MatthewSend us a textThis sermon is an introduction to the Gospel of Matthew. We will work through a verse-by-verse study of the gospel, holding the second chapter in reserve for our services in December.The word "Gospel" is in the title of the first four books of the New Testament, and it means "good news." Each gospel has a unique perspective and is directed toward a different audience, ensuring that we have the fullest picture of Jesus' life possible within the limitations of literature. The theme of Matthew is "God with us," o...2024-09-2239 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 27: The Lamb and the 144000Send us a textRevelation 14:1-5 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Lamb and the 144000."The number 144000, like the number of the beast, is symbolic rather than literal. God redeems the 144,000 from an irredeemable situation, and He separates them from those who are not redeemed. These redeemed are blameless! And yet they are not perfect humans, but rather they have been made into acceptable offerings. Only in Christ, and because of Christ can we stand faultless and blameless, not of our own accord!2024-09-1931 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 26: Number of the Beast-666Send us a textRevelation 13:11-18 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Number of the Beast-666."The beast represents Satan's ways in our world. The good news is that satan is not triumphant against God's people. The number "666" is not literal, but symbolic. For Christians, this number is intended to make us aware that evil in high places can threaten our commitment to Christ! Instead, we look to Christ and the Word for spiritual truths and moral principles to live by. 2024-05-1632 minManna on the MountainMatthew 28:5-7 He Is RisenSend us a textMatthew 28:5-7 is the text for this sermon entitled, "He Is Risen."Our text is Matthew 28:5-7. Listen to the old, old story of Jesus' resurrection from the dead and what it means for us today. Curtis takes us through the unique viewpoints of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John showing us how different people reacted to this miracle!2024-04-1024 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 25: God's People Stand Their GroundSend us a textRevelation 13:1-10 is the text for this sermon entitled, "God's People Stand Their Ground."We learn from our biblical text abut the First Beast, and what it takes to stand up to him. This first beast (representing Satan’s ways in the world) are not ultimately triumphant against God’s people. The passage also reminds us that persecution and hard times will definitely come. Then it asks the question: are we ready? John's vision affirms that there is indeed a way to stand up to the beast who is a spiritual bull...2024-04-0526 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 24: Triumph Over SatanSend us a textRevelation 12:10-12 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Triumph over Satan."Our text today can motivate us to remember that the church and God’s people have and will ultimately triumph over Satan, the dragon. We will see what led to Satan's downfall and how we know he is defeated. Here are the four contributing factors:1) Salvation - given to us by God on His throne and by His Lamb, Jesus.2) Power - throughout Revelation, God is shown as radiant, shining like the sun, which is a symbol of...2024-04-0526 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 23: The War in HeavenSend us a textRevelation 12:7-17 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The War in Heaven."There is so much going on in this narrative about the war that broke out in heaven. There was in heaven an ongoing battle, not just a sudden war. In our text for today, Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels. The dragon fought back. When we talk about Satan, he is pictured in Scripture as fighting back against God and his people. Satan is not going to take defeat lying down! This fighting...2024-03-3029 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 22 The Woman, the Dragon, and the ChildSend us a textRevelation 12:1-6 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Woman, The Dragon, and the Child."This section of book of Revelation shows us that the church and God’s people will be victorious over Satan, the dragon. We read about that three characters who appear in this part of the vision: the woman, the child, and the dragon. First, the woman:* The woman is clothed with the sun, which symbolizes a heavenly nature (cf. 1:16; 10:1)* The phrase “under her feet” signifies dominion and authority over creation. (cf. Ps. 8:6; Mal. 4:3...2024-03-1325 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 21 - The Seventh TrumpetSend us a textRevelation 11:15-19 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Seventh Trumpet (God's Great Power to Reign)".This passage in John's prophecy contrasts God's Kingdom with the kingdom of the world, a singular collection of all earthly kingdoms and what they represent). God will reign for ever and ever, in contrast to earthly kings that will reign only shortly. Note the significant statement that He “has begun to reign” must not be overlooked. This is the powerful note of encouragement in the midst of earthly kings and kingdoms acting as if their...2024-02-2733 minManna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 20: The Measuring RodSend us a textRevelation 11:1-14 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Measuring Rod."This passage recounts John's vision of the sixth trumpet sounding and the vision that comes with it. The vision is largely symbolic, not literal, and describes in sweeping terms what will happen to God's church. John received a measuring rod like a staff. God commands that John measure three things: the temple of God, the altar, and the people worshipping there. This lesson explores the message that Christians will undergo hardships, but they will be victorious in the end...2024-02-2132 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation L-19, The Mighty Angel and the Little ScrollSend us a textRevelation 10 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Mighty Angel and the Little Scroll."When the first mighty angel appears in 5:2, he asks John who is worthy to open the sealed scroll. Once the seventh seal is opened (8:1), that scroll is not mentioned until this chapter 10. Now, the mighty angel holds the little scroll. After making an oath to heaven, the angel declares to John that time (chronos) will be no more. Next, the voices of the 7 thunders speak. John is told not to write down these prophecies. B...2024-02-2026 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 18 - The Seal of God on Their ForeheadsSend us a textRevelation 9 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Seal of God on Their Foreheads."This passage teaches that being “marked” means we are one of God’s people, and we are protected from Satan and a sinful lifestyle. The Old Testament background for this imagery is found in Ezekiel 9:3-6 where only those with God's mark on their foreheads were spared death.Interpreting this mark as baptism means we are identified as God’s people, imprinted with His Holy Spirit, waiting for the day of redemption, a deposit guarante...2024-02-1630 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 17 - All the Prayers of God's PeopleSend us a textRevelation 8 is the text for this sermon entitled, "All the Prayers of God's People."Revelation 8 offers encouragement and hope by the image of the “prayer angel” bringing prayers of all the saints up before the throne of God. This angel stands in the throne room before God and in front of the altar. The angel brings the prayers before God and offers them with incense to God. The incense was given to the angel, who lit it with fire from the golden altar, all symbolizing the purity of this offering....2024-02-0430 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 16: Washed in the Blood of the LambSend us a textRevelation chapter 7 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Washed in the Blood of the Lamb."This chapter is the immediate answer to the question at the end of chapter 6: “For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can withstand it?” The answer is that the blood of the Lamb seals two groups: (1) the faithful Jews, who followed God throughout their lives under the Old Testament law, and (2) the world-wide multitude of believers who know and follow God under the new and final testament.The ch...2024-01-1635 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 15 - Opening the Six SealsSend us a textRevelation 6:1-17 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Opening the Six Seals."The vision of the opening of the six seals represent God’s plan unfolding, even with the calamities and woes that come upon the earth. Note this chart: Revelation 6 Matthew 241.False Christ (v.2)........................................False Christs (v.4-5)2.Wars (v. 3-4) ..............................................Wars (v. 6-7)3.Famine (v. 5-6)...........................................Famine (v. 7)4.Pestilence (v. 7-8) ......................................Pestilence (in Luke)5.Persecutions (v. 9-11).................................Persecutions (v. 9-10)6.Earthquake, solar eclipse, ..........................Solar & lunar eclipse, blood red moon, stars ...2024-01-1036 min
Manna on the MountainThe Meaning of ChristmasSend us a textLuke 1:1-20 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Meaning of Christmas."Curtis preached his 50th sermon on Christmas today, having completed his golden anniversary as a gospel minister. He asks and answers these seven questions:1 - Is it even okay to celebrate Christmas?2 - What do we make of this intersection between faith and culture?3 - Why do we celebrate Jesus birth in the "Christmas season?4 - What are some healthy spiritual practices that can be observed with Christmas?5 - Why do we look...2023-12-2721 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 13 - In Heaven's Throne RoomSend us a textRevelation 4:1-11 is the text for this sermon entitled, "In Heaven's Throne Room (You Are Worthy, Lord)."This fourth chapter of the book of Revelation has been called a picture of heaven's throne room. Curtis looks at the powerful imagry of John's vision and shows us what we Christians today can learn from the worship that is done in heaven. Everything centers on God and praising his power, glory, honor and giving thanks to him. The acts of worship that we often focus on (teaching, praying, giving, communion, singing, etc.) are...2023-12-2637 minManna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 12 To the Church at LaodiceaSend us a textRevelation 3:14-21 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Laodicea, the Lukewarm Church."From this passage, we learn that we should be self-aware as a church and ask the hard question as to whether or not we are lukewarm.This is the 7th and last of the letters to churches in Asia Minor that are included in Revelation. This collection has a collections of commendations and condemnations. There are also several commands, and all of these items are messages to the universal church of the Lord. Curtis goes over these lists...2023-12-2434 minManna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 09 - To the Church at ThyatiraSend us a textRevelation 2:18-29 is the text for this sermon entitled, "To the Church in Thyatira."The letter to Thyatira had both positives and negatives. The congregation was doing more then than at the beginning. However, they were tolerating the false prophet Jezebel. Thyatira needed to persevere and hold on in spite of Jezebel. If they decided to persevere, they would be victorious to the end and Jesus would give them "the morning star."2023-12-2433 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 11 - To the Church at PhiladelphiaSend us a textRevelation 3:7-13 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The church with an open door: Philadelphia."Christ told John to write to the congregation in Philadelphia, a church which he said had an open door of opportunity. He acknowledges that they have little strength, but that they have not denied the name of Jesus! A huge problem for them was a group who had come claiming to be Jews, but who were not Jews. Jesus promises that the Philadelphia Christians will overcome and their enemies will fall at their feet, acknowledge...2023-12-2432 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 10 - To the Church at SardisSend us a textRevelation 3:1-6 is the text for this sermon entitled, "A Church with a False Reputation: Sardis."Jesus' letter to the church at Sardis teaches us that we need to be self-aware as a church. We must stand ready to hold on and persevere, knowing that God wants us to be alive and not dead spiritually. Curtis goes over the history of the city of Sardis and summarizes the characteristics of the church that met in that city. The members of the church thought they were a thriving, alive congregation--but t...2023-12-2428 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 08 - To the Church at PergamumSend us a textRevelation 2:12-17 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Church Who Had a Faithful Witness: Pergamum."In this Revelation passage, Jesus acknowledged the faithful witness of Antipas the martyr at Pergamum. He held Antipas up as a model for the church at Pergamum. Curtis goes over the history of the city and the church in the first century AD. Revelation calls Sardis a place where "Satan had a throne." That fallen angel was active in the city, working to corrupt Christians and prevent the gospel from spreading. To c...2023-12-2133 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 14 - Who Is Able To Open the Scroll?Send us a textRevelation 5:1-5 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Who Is Able to Open the Scroll?"John continues with the scene in the throne room of heaven, showing the hand of God holding out a scroll sealed with seven seals. Curtis discusses the significance of seven seals in first century AD life, securing an important document such as a contract or a deed. Jesus Christ is worthy to open the seals and come into an inheritance of the Earth. Satan will no longer be the "prince of the powers of the...2023-12-2131 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 04 - Vision of a Son of ManSend us a textRevelation 1:12-16 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Vision of a Son of Man."This passage shows us the importance of Christ who is the conqueror in a world of evil. His portrayal as a ‘son of man” in John’s vision in chapter one demonstrates his sovereign rule.This son of man image…(picturing the risen Lord)1. Portrays the unique incarnation/resurrected Jesus2. Portrays his presence among the lampstands3. Portrays him garbed in his priestly robe4. Portrays his commanding presence5. Portrays his parapher...2023-12-1930 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 07 To the Church at SmyrnaSend us a textRevelation 2:8-11 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Message to the Church in Smyrna."Christ's letter to the church in Smyrna urges us to be self-aware as a church and realize how rich we are! Smyrna was a small church that didn't realize how rich they were. Every church needs to be encouraged in face of its own obstacles and challenges, particularly when they are going through struggles. Smyrna was going through the trial of being slandered. They had people pretending to be Jews but who instead were satanic in...2023-12-1833 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 06 - To the Church at EphesusSend us a textRevelation 2:1-7 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Abandoning our First Love: The Church in Ephesus."Christ lists several positive things about the Ephesian church: -Deeds, hard work, and perseverance-Exposing false teachers-Endured hardships, not grown weary-Rejected the NicolaitansYet, He also has negative thigs to say, as well:-Lost their first loveAs a result, if they do not repent and rekindle that original zeal, Jesus will remove their church's candle from the lampstand.2023-12-1833 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation Lesson 06 - To the Church at EphesusRevelation 2:1-7 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Abandoning our First Love: The Church in Ephesus."Christ lists several positive things about the Ephesian church: -Deeds, hard work, and perseverance-Exposing false teachers-Endured hardships, not grown weary-Rejected the NicolaitansYet, He also has negative thigs to say, as well:-Lost their first loveAs a result, if they do not repent and rekindle that original zeal, Jesus will remove their church's candle from the lampstand.2023-12-1810 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation L3 "Exiled and in the Spirit"Send us a textRevelation 1:9-11 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Exiled and in the Spirit."In today’s lesson, we will look at the emphasis on John, the writer of the book. We learn from our biblical text at least four significant things about John that help set the stage for our entering into his world of prophetic visions.1. He was exiled.2. He was "in the spirit" on the Lord's Day.3. He was to take actions: See, hear, write, send the experience.4. He lived in a time where Ro...2023-10-0236 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation L2 "Jesus the Almighty"Send us a textRevelation 1:4-8 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Jesus the Almighty".This lesson helps us to understand the Almighty power of Jesus and how it becomes the basis of our own faithfulness. John is identified as the author of the book, and he gives us the detail that he is banished on the Isle of Patmos for his belief and teachings about Jesus (persecuted). He also identifies himself as a servant of the Lord. Jesus tells him that He cares about the seven churches and will use a 9...2023-09-3015 min
Manna on the MountainRevelation L1 "Worthy Art Thou!"Send us a textOur new study of the book of Revelation starts with this lesson. Revelation 1:1-3 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Worthy Art Thou!"As we carefully and prayerfully walk our way through the book of Revelation we will be answering these questions:1.What is a revelation? How does understanding Jewish apocalyptic literature help us understand it?2.Who is Jesus Christ in the book of Revelation?3.What role do angels play in the book?4.Who is this servant John and why is he on the isle of...2023-09-1624 min
Manna on the MountainInterim: The Compassion of ChristSend us a textMark 1:40-45 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Compassion of Jesus"Good news spreads quickly! This story of Jesus cleansing a leper demonstates the compassion of Jesus. Compassion is more than empathy. The leper came to Jesus humbly, kneeling, and broken in body and spirit. He beseeched help and needed comfort. This impacted the Savior and He touched the sick man. He was willing to do what most others wouldn not do. Throughout Mark, we read of Jesus "touching and being touched". May God give us the courage to...2023-09-0727 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L17 Take Care and Grow (final in series)Send us a text2 Peter 3:17-18 is the text for our final sermon in the 2 Peter series and is entitled, "Take Care and Grow."Spiritual stability is the goal of Christian daily living. What does spiritual stability mean and how do we achieve it? It means having knowledge and experience to be prepared for what life may bring us, and being so well-founded in the faith that we won't be carried away by error. We achieve this stability by growing in grace and knowledge, and by living a "doxological life" of praise to God.2023-08-3031 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L15 What Sort of Persons Ought You To Be?Send us a text2 Peter 3:11-14 is the text for this sermon entitled, "What sort of Persons Ought You To Be?"Peter urges that we allow the coming "Day of the Lord" (the end times) to be our inspiration for living the kind of lives we ought to live. We live intentionally to the glory of God, and by the power of His Spirit, and the power of the risen Lord, we choose to live lives of:holiness,godliness,patient waiting,without moral spot or blemish,at peace. 2023-08-1530 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L14 The Day of the LordSend us a text2 Peter 3:5-10 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Day of the Lord."Peter write to Christians about five significant things about the Day of the Lord, filled with good news for believers:1.We anticipate with joy the day of the Lord knowing it is on his timetable.2.We rest in peace knowing God’s promise will be fulfilled.3.We sense the heart of God and his desire that all come to him with a believing repentant heart.4.Unlike those without faith, we will not let the...2023-08-0632 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L12 Watch Out for False TeachersSend us a text2 Peter chapter 2 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Watch out for False Teachers."Peter reminds us that there were false teachers in the past and that we can and should learn from that because there will be false teachers again. The secretly attempt to introduce destructive heresies and exploit the faithful. However, the Lord knows how to:a. to rescue the godly from trials, and b. hold the unrighteous for punishment.Destructive heresies related to the Christian faith included untrue content (such as denying the sovereignty of...2023-08-0433 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L8 - Make Diligent Effort in Christian VirtuesSend us a text2 Peter 1:10-11 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Make a Diligent Effort in Christian Virtues." The word "diligent" means to make haste, to be diligent, to be eager, to be zealous; to exert oneself with a strong endeavor. The result, Peter tells us, is that we will be able to confirm our calling and never to stumble. Today's lesson focuses on the four important things that our diligence affords us:1. Confirms our calling2. Confirms our election3. Is the actual practice of the Christian virtues4. Is richly provided with...2023-08-0427 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L9 Remember These ThingsSend us a text2 Peter 1:12-15 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Remember These Things."Peter explains why he takes the time to remind Christians of things that they have learned in the past. We are human beings and so we are prone to the frailties of the body. He further shares that his own life will soon be over, and yet he is making efforts to continue to be reminded. This is our cue to realize the vital importance of remaining in Bible study and fellowship so our own awareness of Truth will...2023-08-0428 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L11 Pay Attention to the Prophetic MessageSend us a text2 Peter 1:19-21 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Pay Attention to the Prophetic Message." Peter affirms the reliability of the Bible's holy message. It is reliable as to revelation, transmission of the text, translation of the text, and in that we can rest assured that the Bible includes all we need to prepare for eternity. We must pay full attention to the Word, focus on it and take it seriously. He vigorously asserts that no true prophet or teacher from God speaks from a personal interpretation or explanation from a h...2023-08-0438 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L13 Where Is this Coming He Promised?Send us a text2 Peter 3:1-4 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Where Is This Coming He Promised?"The crowd around the cross scoffed and mocked our Lord, and said, “Let him save himself, he saved others.” Here is an interesting observation about life. When people do not understand, or are not in control, or are fearful, they often resort to scoffing, mocking, and making fun of the situation. Yet, those who scoff about the Lord's Second Coming:1. Do not have wholesome thinking2. Do NOT have the capacity or desire to re...2023-08-0430 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L7 Abounding in These ThingsSend us a text2 Peter 1:8-9 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Abounding in These Things." Peter shows us that we must supplement our faith with the Christian virtues because when we possess these things, they can keep us from being spiritually "off," or lacking spiritual growth. We learn four specific reasons that we need to possess the Christian virtues we've studied the past few weeks. 1. Keeps us from being ineffective2. Keeps us from being unproductive3. Keeps us from being nearsighted and blind4. Keeps us from forgetting2023-06-1928 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L6 - Adding to Our Faith Christian Virtues (3)Send us a text2 Peter 1:5-7 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Adding to our Faith—Christian Virtues (3)."Faith can become so used up, challenged, confronted, overworked, etc., that if not supplemented can lead to atrophy. This is a muscular metaphor. Actually, in the next verse or two, Peter will use an ocular metaphor! Some have seen a progression of these last three virtues, with agape being the crowning jewel.1. We supplement our faith with godliness.2.We supplement our faith with brotherly affection.3.We supplement our faith with agape love.2023-06-1428 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L5 - Adding to Our Faith Christian Virtues (2)Send us a text2 Peter 1:6 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Adding to our Faith—Christian Virtues (2)." Peter builds on his theme of supplementing our faith by adding the virtues of self-control and patience.Self-control is a fruit of the spirit and Christians do well to apply self-control in the areas of sexual appetites, food, emotion, and our language. The virtue of patience, or endurance, entails remaining in Christ despite the challenges that come our way in life. God does not always rescue us, rather God enables us to ‘remain under” or endure what we are...2023-06-1329 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L4 - Supplementing Our Faith (Christian Virtues 1)Send us a text2 Peter 1:5 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Supplementing Our Faith." Peter writes about how important it is to build up our faith by supplementing it with virtue and knowledge.Since God has used His divine power to give us the gift of life and godliness and rescued us from the corruption of the fallen world, we need to work to maintain our spiritual health. We must seek growth with all earnestness. How? By working to grow in virtue and knowledge. And of course, the list will continue in the next v...2023-05-3131 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L3 God's Absolutely Terrific PromisesSend us a text2 Peter 1:4 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Absolutely Terrific Promises!" God’s divine power has granted to us precious and very great promises. 1.God’s promise of love2.God’s promise of presence. I will be with you always and never forsake you. 3.God’s promise of fellowship with others.4.Covenant with the earth—rainbow, no more universal flood5.Covenant with Christ—baptism, forgiveness of sin and brought into relationship with God.6.New heavens and new earth/heaven7.Always a way out of temptations!2023-05-2530 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L2 His Divine Power Has Granted to UsSend us a text2 Peter 1:3 is the text for this sermon entitled, "His Divine Power Has Granted to Us." God’s divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness. Peter's purpose is to stimulate wholesome thinking—this is crucial to a healthy spiritual life as represented by “deep knowledge”. This single verse informs us of seven things:1) God has divine power.2) God freely grants things to us.3)God has granted "all things."4) God has granted what pertains to life.5) God has granted what pertains to godline...2023-05-1530 min
Manna on the MountainJames L18 Patient Endurance in SufferingSend us a textJames 5:7-11 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Patient Endurance in Suffering."The book of James tells us how important it is to possess the virtue of patient endurance when we are going through suffering. We learn five Bible truths about endurance:(1) This patient endurance helps us wait for the Lord’s coming(2) This patient endurance helps us in our relationships with one another.(3) This patient endurance helps us in the face of suffering.(4) This patient endurance is best illustrated by the prophets and Job.(5) Thi...2023-05-0919 min
Manna on the MountainJames L17 Injustice and the Ears of the AlmightySend us a textJames 5:1-6 is the text for this sermon entitled, "Injustice and the Ears of the Almighty." James teaches that God cares about how we get our money/wealth/riches and what we do with it. This almost always involves other people, so there is a strong religious center to the entire topic of business dealings. God cares when people are victimized and treated unjustly so that someone else can become rich.As the lesson concludes, we realize that it does make a profound difference in our Christian life how w...2023-05-0931 min
Manna on the Mountain2 Peter L01 - A Like Precious FaithSend us a text2 Peter 1:1-2 is the text for this sermon entitled "A Like Precious Faith." This like precious faith will have three overarching themes that will be developed in various ways throughout Peter’s letter. (1) Reminder of the content of our faith. (2) Ethics—how we live out faith in view of the end times. (3) Heresy—contending for the faith (similar to Jude) and watching out for threats that could distort the faith.2023-05-0729 min
Manna on the MountainJames L16 Who Are You to Judge Your Neighbor?Send us a textJames 4:11-12 is the Bible text for this sermon entitled, "Who Are You To Judge Your Neighbor?"Judging is the basis of slander, as we see in Proverbs 10:18, “Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool.” Note what James wrote earlier in 2:8, "If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right.” When we come to Jesus, embracing the converting power of the gospel through the cross, and the Spirit of God is living in us, we give up all cla...2023-05-0518 min
Manna on the MountainJames L14 Why Do Some of Our Prayers Go Unanswered?Send us a textJames 4:1-3 is the text for this sermon entitled, Why Do Some of Our Prayers Go Unanswered?We need to have a vibrant prayer life that is correctly focused on serving God and others, instead of being viewed as an online wish list where we can order what we want, and angelic Amazon service delivers to our front door whatever we want. A.Motives in our prayer life are crucial. Selfish motives involved in prayer do not help us grow spiritually. If some of our prayers go unanswered because o...2023-05-0425 min
Manna on the MountainJames L13 Two Kinds of WisdomSend us a textJames 3:13-18 is the text for this sermon entitled Two Kinds of Wisdom. It is a huge step in the life of wisdom and spiritual growth to own up (don’t deny the truth) that we are harboring a bad thought toward another person, and planning on doing something against them. James uses three words to describe this kind of “wisdom”—earthly, unspiritual, demonic. The opposite is true of heavenly wisdom, as James concludes that the fruit of this wisdom is, "peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness." P...2023-05-0428 min
Manna on the MountainJames L21 The Prayer of FaithSend us a textJames 5:13-20 is the text for this sermon entitled, "The Prayer of Faith." This is the final lesson in our series on the book of James. Here, Curtis urged us to pray all the time, no matter the circumstances. James asks four questions, and the answer to each is, "The prayer of faith." He asks, "Is any among you in trouble? Is any among you happy? Is any among you sick? Is any among you wandering away from the Lord?"2023-05-0331 min
Manna on the MountainJames L12 Can the Tongue Be Tamed?Send us a textJames 3:1-12 is the text for this 12th lesson in the James series, entitled "Can the Tongue Be Tamed?" This is probably one of the most important lesson ever on Christian living! We can extend James’ definition of true, useful, and valuable religion to this: "True religion watches its tongue to bless others and praise God.”This lesson recognizes the power of the spoken word. James focuses on the negative so we can see the need for the positive!2023-04-2932 min
Manna on the MountainJames L11 Living FaithSend us a textJames 2:14-26 is the text for this lesson entitled, "Living Faith". In this passage, James contrasts a living, useful faith with a dead, useless faith. Living faith responds to the needs of others and is not satisfied with well-meaning words that are not followed up with commitment to be involved. So, our faith is not something we just have or hold. Instead, we embrace faith as a way of life that responds and is not satisfied with just a claim!2023-04-2928 min
Manna on the MountainJames L10 Mercy Triumphs over JudgmentSend us a textJames 2:8-13 is the text for this sermon entitled "Mercy Triumphs Over Judgment." James tells us that God's royal law provides for mercy over judgment. There is a difference between doing right things and being a right person, one who cares for the priorities of the kingdom. Jesus faced religious leaders who did not have mercy. It is quite extraordinary, and almost unbelievable, that he stirred up so much controversy with the Jewish leaders every time he engaged in an act of mercy that did not meet their criteria! G.Jesus of...2023-04-2932 min
Manna on the MountainJames L09 Favoritism ForbiddenSend us a textJames 2:1-7 is the text for this sermon entitled "Favoritism Forbidden." This passage urges us to realize how important it is as we live out our daily Christian life not being guilty of favoritism. From the time we become Christians, we lose our lens of discrimination: Galatians 3:28 teaches “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”2023-04-2925 min
Manna on the MountainJames Lesson 07 - A New Year's MessageSend us a textText of the lesson is James 4:13-17 for the sermon entitled, "A New Year's Message."Because this sermon fell on New Year's Day 2023, Curtis skipped forward in James to chapter 4 verses 13-17. We remember to temper our prayers with humility and ask for God's will to be applied in greater measure than our own limited, human viewpoint. Only in this way will our plans be blessed by divine wisdom.2023-04-2828 min
Manna on the MountainJames Lesson 08: What Is Real Religion?Send us a textJames 1:26-27 was the text for this lesson entitled, "What Is Real Religion?" Curtis spoke on this topic to remind us all that real religion takes into account our “word-life” and our reaching out to the less fortunate, as well as keeping ourselves unspotted from the world. We must guard against merely "appearing" to be religious, because that makes us more useless than a car without wheels. We must keep ourselves pure, and we must help the helpless.2023-04-2732 min
Manna on the MountainHe Lives! Easter Message 2023Send us a textText: John 20:11-12, Jesus Lives! Curtis explored the tender history of Mary Magdalene meeting Jesus in the garden of the cemetery where Jesus' body had been laid. But the body wasn't there, and the emotional impacts went from despair and discouragement to exaltation and rejoicing. 2023-04-2626 min
Manna on the MountainJames Lesson 19 - Swearing on My Mother's GraveSend us a textText: James 5:12In his letter to Christians, James reminded believers that their way of life should be based on true honesty where a simple 'Yes' or 'No' means just that. As God's people we do not need to and should not call upon any basis for swearing to back up our communications.2023-04-2523 min
Manna on the MountainEaster 2022 - He Has Been RaisedSend us a textTexts: Matthew 28:5-7; Mark 16:6; Luke 24:6. He has been raised and is living still! The proclamation of the resurrection of Jesus is central to our faith. This lesson looks at the 6 basic proclamations in which the resurrection of Jesus functions as the foundation of our faith. Because Jesus really was raised from the dead by God, humanhistory has forever been changed. Fundamentally, Easter is a proclamation, and today we want to highlight 6 basic proclamations we never want to forget!1. This proclamation affirms the sovereign will of God being fulfilled.2...2022-04-2426 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 10 - Jesus' Earthly LifeSend us a textText: Hebrews 5:1-10. One of the roles Jesus held in his Earthly Life is described in this text as being a priest "after the order of Melchizedek." God had called this man, Melchizedek, to be a High Priest long before God's written laws established that a High Priest must not only be from the tribe of Levi, but must be specifically in the lineage of Aaron, brother of Moses. This tells us that Jesus (who was in the lineage of Judah, not Levi), was also a special high priest similarly called by God...2022-04-2324 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 11 - Don't Be Sluggish!Send us a textText: Hebrews 5:11-14. Don't Be Sluggish! The purpose of this lesson is to be reminded that when enough time passes, we should be mature enough in our faith to teach the word. The word used in Hebrews is translated here as "sluggish" and was used to talk about the numb limbs of a sick lion. If we are spiritually sick because we've neglected opportunities to grow and work, we will be ineffective. Laziness is too tame a word, although laziness might be the motivating factor behind the lack of growth. It is vital to...2022-04-2330 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 9 - Jesus Our SympathizerSend us a textText Hebrews 4:14-16. Hebrews calls Jesus our "High Priest" who can sympathize with us because he lived a fully vulnerable human life, tempted as we are. One result of this mysterious and amazing life--divinity plus humanity in one being--we can approach the throne of Heaven with confidence, assured of a loving response to our faith, our needs. So, we can hold fast, firmly, take hold of, never let go of our faith.2022-04-0132 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 8 - The Word of God Is AliveSend us a textText Hebrews 4:12-13. The purpose of this lesson is to remind us that the Word of God is embodied in Jesus, energized by his Spirit, and revealed in His Word. That word is active, and alive! This lesson looks at the essential nature of the Word of God. It is energized by the Spirit and embodied by Jesus. There are four things unique to Scripture coming from God. The Word of God is (1) living/active, (2) penetrating, (3) judges us, and (4) exposes sin!2022-04-0126 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 7 - Promise of Entering His RestSend us a textText Hebrews 4:1-11. The purpose of this lesson is to motivate us make every effort to enter into the rest God has provided. The lesson examines six specific ways that we can think about the promise of entering the rest God has offered us. God rested from his labors in the creation. The Law of Moses established the Sabbath day of rest for the Jewish faithful. Today, in the Christian Age, the promise stands sure that our rest is waiting for us in the next life.2022-04-0126 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 5 - Consider JesusSend us a textText Hebrews 3:1-6. Today we are asked to consider and choose from many options. Every advertisement asks us to consider a certain brand or lifestyle decision. The most important thing we will ever consider is Jesus. This section of the book of Hebrews calls Jesus our Apostle, meaning that He came to earth on a mission for His Father. Jesus is our high priest (2:7). He appeases God's wrath against sin. We can see in Jesus God's sympathy with our weaknesses, having known what it is like to walk on ea...2022-02-2825 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 6 - Those Who Share in ChristSend us a textText Hebrews 3:7-19. Many “testings” in the Bible occurred in the wilderness. Sometimes it is God’s people testing God. And sometimes it is God’s people being tested in the wilderness. Why did such momentous occasions occur in the wilderness? In this lesson we learn that the “fathers” of Israel tested God in the wilderness for 40 years. All during those years, they saw God’s works and abundant provisions. However, they griped, grumbled, hardened their hearts, and became rebellious. Today, let us remember that we who share in Christ can recog...2022-02-2826 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 4 - Jesus, Our BrotherSend us a textText Hebrews 2:10-18. Jesus came to earth and was physically born to a virgin, Mary, fulfilling all of God's prophecies and promises to send us a Messiah. He came as the Son of God, the only being to leave the throne of heaven to become a little lower than then angels: fully human and yet divine. Because of this miracle of "God among us," Jesus is our brother. This is an enormous achievement, an incredible gift. He was born of a woman, and at the end of his earthly life, he ex...2022-02-2826 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 3 - What If We Ignore Salvation?Send us a textText Hebrews 2:1-4. God's last will and testament describes His biggest blessing, the graceful offer of salvation for all sinners who decide to follow Him. This is the only path, the single effective way, His has given to provide a home in heaven for every person who has sinned. What happens to the one who rejects this offered mercy? 2022-02-2825 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 2 - Faithful Angels Serve UsSend us a textText Hebrews 1:5-24. A look at the role of faithful angels, those that did not follow Satan in that rebellion against God's sovereignty but remained faithful to God. God has charged these faithful angels with, among other tasks, ministering to humankind, especially the faithful Christians. 2022-02-2833 min
Manna on the MountainHebrews Lesson 1 - Supremacy of Jesus' NameSend us a textText Hebrews 1:1-4. We begin our study of the book of Hebrews with some introductory material on the book itself. This book is a rich study that shows how the Old Testament scriptures points to the New Law of the Spirit that opened with the life, death, and resurrection of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. These first four verses of the text beautifully describe God's view of the timeline of His communication with humankind in this physical world. First, God spoke His will to the patriarchs (heads of fa...2022-02-2633 minManna on the MountainI am doing a new thing (Isaiah 43)Send us a textWelcome to our podcast, Manna from the Mountain. As we begin a new year, Curtis disusses the text, Isaiah 43:18-21, where the Lord declares that he is doing a new thing. This year we will be studying the book of Hebrews, beginning next week. The theme of the study is Jesus, He who never changes.2022-02-2422 min