Yesterday, we looked at the fifth petition of the Lord's Prayer, "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." We see that we must seek the mercy of God, but also that this is a very dangerous prayer. If we withhold forgiveness from others then, in this prayer, we're asking God to withhold his forgiveness from us. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperrySeekingGodsForgiveness

The children's sermon for today can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumMarch29childrenssermon

Last night, Pastor Steven Heilmann from Grace Lutheran Church in Morris, IL was with us. He continued our series, "Not I, But Christ", with a message titled "Not I, But Christ and His Grace." It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/SteveHeilmannChristandHisGrace

Yesterday, we heard about the fourth petition of the Lord's Prayer. In it, Jesus instructs us to seek God's provision for our daily needs. As easy as this sounds, most of us fail to do so. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperrySeekingGodsProvision_0

Yesterday, we continued our Wednesday night Lenten series with Pastor David Skordahl of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Morris, IL. He continued our series, "Not I, But Christ" with a message titled, "Not I, But Christ and His Life." It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/DavidSkordahlChristandHisLife

Yesterday, we heard our third message in our Lent series on the Lord's Prayer. We considered the second and third petitions of the prayer: "Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." We learned that, when we offer these prayers, we're asking that God would be our Savior and Lord. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryOurSaviorandLord

Our children's message, based on the children's book "The Parable of the Lily" can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumMarch15childrenssermon

Last night, Patrick Lohse, the intern pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Morris brought the message. He continued our series, "Not I, But Christ" with a message titled, "Not I, But Christ and His Faith." It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/PatrickLohseChristandHisFaith

Yesterday, we heard the second message of our series on the Lord's Prayer. In it, we focused on the first petition of the prayer, "Hallowed be your name." We saw that we're to pray that God's name might be made holy among us. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperrySanctifyingGodsName_0

Last night, the second message of our Lenten series, "Not I, But Christ," was brought by Pastor Chuck Sampson of Newark Lutheran Church in Newark, IL. He spoke of the great love God has for us. It can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/ChuckSampsonChristandHisLove

Yesterday I began a new series of messages that will carry us through the Sundays of Lent. The series focuses on the Lord's Prayer.

Yesterday we heard specifically about the address of the Prayer, and learned that our prayers must be rightly directed. We can't just pray to anyone or to any god. Our prayers must be directed to our Father in heaven, the Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheDirectionofPrayer

Last night, we started our Lent series. Several pastors of the Illinois District of the AFLC are participating in a "round robin." Each week, one of us brings the next part of the series. The series is titled "Not I, But Christ".

In the first message, we heard that, as Christians, we've died with Christ. Our old life, our life of sin, has come to an end. If we truly believe in Jesus, we cannot continue to live in sin; we cannot continue to live for the old nature. We must instead embrace death and receive the new life that God has provided for us. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryChristandHisDeath

We all know that we're sinners. But we're usually unwilling to open up about the specific sins we've committed or those we're struggling with. We try to hide our sin, making ourselves seem to be better than we really are. However, God knows all things. There's no hiding our sin from him. Because of this, we must acknowledge our sin, we must confess it and repent of it, that we can receive his grace. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryNoHidingIt

Our children's message for the day can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MarkFagerstromFeb22childrensmessage

Many people today think that, as long as they don't hurt anyone else, their sin is no big deal. But it is a big deal. According to Scripture, every sinful act is committed against none other than the Lord himself. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryAgainstYouOnly

On Saturday, Grace hosted the Mid-Winter Bible Conference of the Illinois District of the AFLC. The theme was "Building a Strong Foundation for Our Youth." The passage used for this discussion was Deuteronomy 6:4-9.

I brought the first message, talking about loving the Lord with our whole heart. If we're to raise our young people in faith, we need to be faithful ourselves. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryBibleConf1

The second message was brought by Pastor Chuck Sampson of Newark Lutheran Church in Newark, IL. He talked about the importance of having God's Word in our heart. You can find this message at http://www.archive.org/details/ChuckSampsonBibleConf2

To start off the afternoon, we heard a book review given by Pastor Peter Ward of Faith Lutheran Church in Ottawa, IL. He reviewed the book "The Last Christian Generation" by Josh McDowell. Unfortunately, I didn't locate the recording for this presentation. If I find it, I'll post it.

The third and fourth sessions were lead by Pastor Steve Pappillon of Fox River Lutheran Church in Sheridan, IL. He talked about how important it is for parents to share the Word with their children, and how we can talk of God with them at all times. We did have a minor audio glitch in the third presentation, so keep listening if things get quiet for a minute. They can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/StevePappillonBibleConf3 and at http://www.archive.org/details/StevePappillonBibleConf4

Yesterday, on Feb. 8th, we talked about a trap the church has fallen into today. So often, we think that if we can't help people financially, if we don't have the money, to meet their needs, there's nothing we can do for them. However, the reality is that there's a much greater gift we have to give. Touching people with the power of Jesus is much greater than any worldly goods we can give. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheGreatestGift

The church today has lost its sense of purpose; the people seem oblivious to their calling. We see in Scripture that God has called us to make disciples of all nations. But most of us aren't even willing to be disciples, let alone make disciples. The church must regain its sense of purpose; it must receive the call God has placed upon it. And then, like Jesus, we must let nothing keep us from fulfilling it. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryACertaintyofPurpose

We have so many priorities in life that our interests become divided. And, as a result, the Lord is pushed aside in the interest of other things. But, as we see in 1 Corinthians 7, we're to have an undivided devotion to the Lord. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryKeepingtheRightFocus

Our children's message for the day can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryJan25childrenssermon

In our society today, not all life is seen as valuable. But according to Scripture, human life is valuable because we were made in the image of God. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheImageofGod

Our actions flow from what's in our heart; our faith will be displayed in the things we do. But so often today, people profess a faith that's not expressed in their actions. This reveals a need to repent and to surrender ourselves to the Lord. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryDoYouBelieve

Our chidren's message is also based on this theme and can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryJan11childrenssermon

Many people like to make New Year's resolutions. They promise themselves that they'll change a bad habit or normal practice in their life. This is good. But the problem with resolutions is that they require self-discipline. Because we're so undisciplined, we indulge our every desire, failing to do what we know is best for us. The same thing is true of our life of faith. Even though we know the calling God's placed on us, even though we know unrepentance leads to judgment, we continue to refuse God. As believers, we must discipline ourselves to fulfill the calling God's placed on our life. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryFightingYourself

Man thinks pretty highly of himself, putting himself in the place of God. We do this in many ways. But, as we see in Psalm 9, we need to remember our place. We need to remember that we are but men. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryANeededReminder

On Christmas, we finished our series, "The Message of Christmas." One more reason we have to celebrate the birth of Christ is because, through him, we've been given peace with God. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryPeacewithGod

This is the fourth message of our series: "The Message of Christmas." In it we hear that, through Jesus, we become the children of God. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryChildrenofGod

This week we had the third message of our Advent seried, "The Message of Christmas." In it we heard that the blessing of God, found in Jesus, is for all people. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryABlessingforAll

Our children's message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MarkFagerstromDec14childrensmessage

Yesterday, we continued our Advent series, "The Message of Christmas." The message focused on this week is salvation from sin. Jesus was born into this world that he might be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperrySalvationfromSin

Yesterday, I started an Advent series titled "The Message of Christmas." The first message of the series reflects on the fact that, in Jesus, God became flesh. He came and lived among us to make it possible for us to live with him forever. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryGodBecameFlesh

Our children's message for yesterday can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumNov30childrensmessage

Also, I have our Thanksgiving service. We heard a series of four short messages by myself and three men of the church. We each focused on a different area of God's provision for our lives. The other three messages were brought by Mark Fagerstrom, Shawn Blobaum, and Gilbert Sebenste. I put it in one download at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryGivingThanks

We anticipate all kinds of things in life. But one thing that most believers are not anticipating is the end of this age. They don't look forward to it because they're scared of what will happen before the end comes. However, like John at the end of Revelation, we should be looking forward to it. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryEagerAnticipation

Our children's message for the day can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MarkFagerstromNov23childrensmessage

Yesterday, we looked at 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11. Scripture tells us that one day the Lord will return. When he does, he'll judge the living and the dead. Because we know this, his coming should be no real surprise. Even though we don't know the day of his return, we should be prepared. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryNoRealSurprise

Our children's sermon for the day can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MarkFagerstromNov16childrensmessage

Last week, I took some vacation time. One of our members at Grace, Gilbert Sebenste, filled the pulpit for me in Ashton. He preached a message on 1 Corinthians 2:2. His point is that, as the church, Jesus Christ and him crucified should be the focus of our ministry and our message. His message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/GilbertSebensteTheMostImportantThing

Pastor Dick Ewing filled the pulpit at Grace. He delivered a message on Jesus' parable of the Ten Virgins. It can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/DickEwingTenVirgins

This week, we're having a series of Revival messages. They're being brought by Pastor Tim Johnson of Ebenezer Free Lutheran Church in Northwood, North Dakota. The series is titled, "Experiencing God in Difficult Times."

The first message was delivered Sunday morning and is titled "The Beauty of Storms." It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/TimJohnsonTheBeautyofStorms

The second message was delivered Sunday night and is titled "The Why of Storms." It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/TimJohnsonTheWhyofStorms

The third message was given Monday night and is titled, "The Effects of Storms." You can find it at http://www.archive.org/details/TimJohnsonTheEffectsofStorms

The final message is titled "Meeting God in Storms" and can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/TimJohnsonMeetingGodinStorms

One of the main truths Martin Luther tried to communicate to the people of his day was that we cannot be saved by what we do, but only by the grace of God received through faith in Jesus. We need to get back to this principle today. Most people, even in the church, think they'll be saved because they're good people. But, as we see in Philippians 3, our background and our actions can do nothing to save us. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryRubbish

Our children's message, focusing on Christian symbols that can be used to make a jack-o-lantern, can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumOct26childrensmessage

Some people go through a mid-life crisis. They begin to look back at their life to see if they've accomplished anything, if they've made any difference in the world. They often begin to feel that their life is meaningless; they feel like it's all been in vain. The same thing happens in the church. We often feel as if what we're doing for the Lord amounts to nothing. But our service of God is never in vain. What we're doing is impacting not only the world in which we live, but also eternity. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryAMeaningfulWork


Our children's message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MarkFagerstromOct19childrensmessage

Yesterday was the last message of our series, "Acts of Devotion." In this message we see that the early church was devoted to prayer. We look at why prayer was so important to them and why we should share this devotion. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryPrayer

Yesterday, we continued our look at Acts 2:42 and saw the third thing to which the early church was devoted: the breaking of bread. This phrase is referring to the Lord's Supper. And, in this day and age where it's taken so lightly, we need to get back to this devotion. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheBreakingofBread

Yesterday we heard the second message of our series, "Acts of Devotion." The second thing the people of the early church were devoted to was fellowship. They were constantly together and thought of themselves as one body. Unfortunately, however, this is not a big priority for many Christians today. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryFellowship

Our children's message can also be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MarkFagerstromSept28childrensmessage

In Acts 2:42 we read that the first Christians devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. Over the next four weeks, we'll be taking a look at these acts of devotion, why they were so important to the early church, and why they should be important to us as well. Yesterday we reflected on the apostles' teaching. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheApostlesTeaching

I've often heard that, in marriage or with your children, you must pick your battles. And I've found this to be true. If you fight about every little issue, you'll never have peace. The same thing is true in the church. There is a place for judgment and fighting, but we often bicker about the smallest things. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryPickingOurBattles

In 2 Kings 1, we hear how Ahaziah, King of Israel, consulted Baal-Zebub, a god worshipped in a town of the Philistines called Ekron. He did this because he was not a worshipper of the Lord, but of this false god. Quite often, people today do the same thing; they will do this even if they profess faith in Christ. Rather than seeking answers, rather than seeking truth, from the Lord, we seek it from another source. And by doing so, we're guilty of idolatry, of worshipping a false god. This is not a sin that God takes lightly. Ahaziah was told that he would die because of his sin. And, unless we repent and trust in Jesus, we're promised the same thing. We'll suffer the wrath of God. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheSearchforTruth

On Sunday, we reflected on the fact that we live in a world of instant gratification. Not only does this affect our life in this world, but it puts our very soul at stake. Because all we seek is to gratify our wants and desires, we pursue those things that go against the will of God. In order to follow him, Jesus says we must deny ourselves; we must die to ourselves. We can either be alive to the world and dead to God or alive to God and dead to the world. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryDeadorAlive

Our children's message for the week can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumAug31childrensmessage

One of the biggest complaints that non-christians have about the church is that it's full of hypocrites. And they're right. It is full of hypocrites. Too often in the church today, people are more concerned about impressing others, about appearing to be more godly than they really are. However, instead of doing this, we should simply live out our faith to honor the God who redeemed us. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryAndtheOscarGoesTo

Our children's message focused on new beginnings. It can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumAug24childrensmessage

I also had the privilege of baptizing two young ladies, Terry and Amanda Flechsig. This can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryFlechsigBaptism

Our lives are often filled with confusion and uncertainties. We also face difficult and painful situations. So we often cry out asking why God has allowed these things to happen to us. We find in Scripture that God is at work even in difficult times, even in painful circumstances, to accomplish his purpose. And we're assured in Scripture that his purpose is our blessing. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryWhyIsThisHappening

As we live in this world, we're all under the control of the laws and forces of nature. We're at their mercy and can do nothing to break them. This often leads us to just accept the way things are and to discount the power of God to help us. But, as we see in Matthew 14:22-33, Jesus has power over the forces of nature. He can do anything he wants to do. So, with God, we always have hope. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryMadetoBeBroken

Our children's message focused on the same theme. It can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryAugust10childrensmessage

Christians today tend to be very selfish with our money; we give very little back to the Lord. We give very little to church and very little to charity. We should follow the example of the Israelites in Exodus 35-36. They brought their gifts freely, because their hearts compelled them. And they brought an overabundance. They brought so much, in fact, that they had to be told to stop. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryRadicalGenerosity

Today, we're told that we should do what's right for us. We're told that, unless we fulfill ourselves, we'll never be happy or content. However, according to Romans 8, we're obligated not to the sinful nature, but the Lord. As believers, we're called to live for him rather than ourselves. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryYouOweIttoYourself

This week we looked at Mark 1:35-39. Many Christians today are so busy that they don't make any time for the Lord. And, in all reality, we have the time. The Lord just comes low on the priority list. We should instead follow the example of Jesus who, no matter how much he had to do and no matter how many expectations were placed on him, made time for God. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTimeforGod

Last week, while I was on vacation, Michael Flechsig, a man newly approved to the AFLC fellowship roster, filled in for me. He talked about the hope of eternity and the impact it has on our lives. It can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MichaelFlechsigEternityInYourHeart

In the church of today, most people are only interested in what they can get from their church. They give no thought to what they can do for others; they're unwilling to do anything for others. However, in Romans 1 we see that Paul had a desire to give. And this is a desire that all of us should have. This sermon can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryAHeartofService

This week, we had our service out at a park for our annual Sunday School picnic. Since we didn't have our wonderful sound system to record the message, I recorded one of my trial runs ahead of time. Essentially, you get the very basic, stripped down version. But you'll get the point all the same.

In Genesis 22, God called Abraham to sacrifice his only son as a burnt offering. And no matter how much Abraham loved his son, he loved his God even more. He went through with it until, at the last moment, God stopped him. In the same way, we see all throughout Scripture that we're called to lay all that is dear to us upon the altar; we're to love God more than anyone or anything else in this world. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryLayItOntheAltar

Yesterday at Grace was confirmation Sunday. Two of our young people publicly professed their faith. You can hear their confession at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryconfirmation2008

Our message was also for this special occasion. We looked at the end of John 6. Many of Jesus' disciples stopped following him because they did not believe. The Twelve, on the other hand, kept on because they knew that Jesus is the Christ and the only way of salvation. If we sincerely believe, then we too will continue to follow Jesus each and every day. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryBecauseYouBelieve

Our children's message for the day was based on the words of Jesus, "I am the vine and you are the branches." Can Molly's stick come back to life? To find out, listen at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumJune22childrensmessage

Yesterday, on Father's Day, we looked at the fact that fathers are helpers of the helpless. They love their children by doing for them what they cannot do for themselves. And the same thing is true of God, our heavenly Father. He too is a helper of the helpless. He helped us in our helplessness by saving us from sin and death. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryHelperoftheHelpless

We live in a culture of indebtedness. We want everything to be fair. If we do something for someone, we think they should do something for us. And this attitude often creeps into our relationship with God. Because we've been good, because we've tried to live for him, we feel entitled to his blessings. However, as we see in Job 41:11, God doesn't owe us anything. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTitforTat

Our children's message, focusing on greed, can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumJune8childrensmessage

In our world today, there are many people who proclaim a different truth, a different gospel, than the one we find in Scripture. Jesus told us to watch out for such people, calling them false prophets. We must look out for them, we must beware, to protect our soul as well as the souls of others. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryBeware

This past Sunday we talked once again about evangelism. Even though we, in the church, know that we've been called by God to proclaim the gospel to all creation, we're too embarrassed to do so. We're ashamed of the gospel. However, we must not be ashamed because the gospel is the power of God for the salvation of all who believe. Thi s message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryAshamedoftheGospel

Our children's message is also available. It focused on laziness. It can be found at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumMay25childrensmessage

Where did we come from? This is a question asked by many, and it's highlighted in the creation/evolution debate. In this message, based on Genesis 1, we see that God made all things. We also see that a lot is riding on this truth. It ultimately affects our entire view of mankind and the world around us. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryIntheBeginning

Our children's message about unseen heros can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumMay18childrensmessage

Yesterday was Pentecost Sunday. Our message focused on the significance of Pentecost as we looked at a promise of Jesus in John 7:37-39. Jesus promised that, when we come to him, when we believe in him, the Holy Spirit would flow from within us. He'll not only live within us, but work through us so that many others can have the opportunity to receive the blessing we were given by God. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryBearersofBlessing

So often in life, we make our decisions, we determine our direction, based on what we want for ourselves. However, this is the wrong approach. We should find joy not in doing what we want, but in what God wants for us. Our lives should be devoted to him that they might be used for him and for his glory. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryWhatHaveYouAccomplished

This week at Grace, we're having our spring revival meetings. Pastor Peter Ward, of Faith Lutheran Church in Ottawa, IL, is with us. He's sharing a series of messages titled, "Discerning the Voice of God."

The first message is based on 1 Samuel 3:1-10 and titled "Speak, for your Servant is Listening." It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/PeterWardSpeakLord_0

The second message of his series, delivered Sunday night was based on Nehemiah 8:4-12. It's titled "God Speaks from the Pulpit". It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/PeterWardGodSpeaksfromthePulpit_0

Monday's message was based on Numbers 22:21-34 and was titled, "Our Hearing Problem." It can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/PeterWardOurHearingProblem

The last message, delivered Tuesday evening, is titled "When God Is Silent". In this message, Pastor Ward takes us through a few examples in Scripture when God seemed to be silent and what they could possibly say about our experience. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/PeterWardWhenGodIsSilent

At Redeemer, I also delivered a message based on 1 Samuel 3:1-10 to whet their appetite. The sound quality isn't great, because I had to record it on a portable recorder, not the wonderful sound system we have over at Grace. But, you can still here it, and I hope it blesses you. It's titled "Hearing the Voice of God" and can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryHearingtheVoiceofGod_0

Yesterday, we brought our series, "The Problem of Pain", to an end. We saw that one other reason why God allows bad things to happen is that he uses them for our good. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheProblemofPain4

Yesterday, we again looked at the problem of pain. A third reason why a loving, all-powerful God allows tragedies to take place is because he uses them as a call to repentance. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheProblemofPain3_0

Yesterday, we heard the second message of our series, "The Problem of Pain." In it, we saw that another reason why God doesn't stop evil from happening is his patience, his desire that all should be saved. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheProblemofPain2

With the shooting at Northern Illinois University about six weeks ago, it's now time to address a problem that gives people so much trouble: the problem of pain. Whenever something like this happens people ask: "If God is loving, why didn't he do something?" or "If God is truly all-powerful, why didn't he stop it from happening." The events suggest to them that either God is not loving or that he's not all-powerful. During the next four weeks, we'll be taking a look at these questions and the Scriptural truths that address them. The first reason why God allowed this tragic event to take place is the sinfulness of man. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheProblemofPain1

Many people today find the Christian message to be intolerant and exclusive. But what we find in Scripture is just the opposite. We find that God isn't partial to anyone; he'll receive anyone who repents and trusts in Jesus Christ. By Jesus death and resurrection, he provided salvation for all and he desires the salvation of all. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryGoodNewsforAll

Our children's message for the day is also available. You can find it at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumMar23childrensmessage

In the message for Maundy Thursday at Grace and Good Friday at Redeemer, we heard the last message of the seried "This Is Most Certainly True." We looked at how essential it is to have both Law and Gospel present in our preaching and teaching. It can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryLawandGospel

Yesterday, we finished our series, "From Their Own Lips". We looked at the words of the centurion, who after Jesus' death, and after God's demonstrations of his power, confessed that Jesus truly was the Son of God. He realized it too late. Will we? This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperrySurelyHeWastheSonofGod

The last of our visiting pastors was here for our Lenten series last night, "This Is Most Certainly True." Pastor David Nelson shared about a large subject: the three sola's of the Reformation and the priesthood of all believers. It can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/DavidNelsonThePriesthoodofAllBelievers

Today, in our series "From Their Own Lips", we looked at the words of the soldiers who served under Pontius Pilate. As they abused him they said, "Hail, King of the Jews." We saw that, just as they mocked Jesus and his authority, so too do we. We do this by failing to submit to him. If he really is our King, we'll humble ourselves and surrender our lives to him. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryHailKingoftheJews

Our children's message for today is also available at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumMar9childrensmessage

This week, for our series "This Is Most Certainly True", we heard from Pastor David Skordahl who shared about the theology of the cross. He talked about how the power of the Christian life flows from the cross. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/DavidSkordahlTheTheologyoftheCross

In the fourth message of our series, "From Their Own Lips", we look at the words of Judas Iscariot who, after Jesus' condemnation, went back to the chief priests declaring that he had betrayed innocent blood. We see in this message that we too are responsible for Jesus' condemnation and that we have also betrayed him. It can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryIHaveBetrayedInnocentBlood

Last night, Pastor Peter Ward of Faith Lutheran Church in Ottawa, IL continued our series, "This Is Most Certainly True." He talked about the Lord's Supper and what Scripture teaches us about this sacrament. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/PeterWardTheLord_sSupper

Yesterday, I delivered the third message of our series, "From Their Own Lips." We looked at the words of the religious leaders as was on trial before them, "We have heard it ourselves from his own lips." They clearly heard and understood the claims of Christ, that he is the Son of God. It can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryWeHaveHeardIt

I accidentally dated our children's message wrong, but you can also hear it at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumFeb23childrensmessage

Last night, as I was preaching out in Wheatland, Iowa, Pastor Chuck Sampson of Newark Lutheran Church was with us. He continued our series, "This Is Most Certainly True", with a message about Baptism. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/ChuckSampsonBaptism

Yesterday I delivered the second message of our series "From Their Own Lips." In it, we looked at the statement made by the wife of Pontius Pilate to her husband, "Have nothing to do with that innocent man." She was right that he was innocent. Not only was he innocent of any crime that would make him deserving of death, he was completely innocent; he was without sin. And it was his innocence that made him the only acceptable sacrifice for our sin. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryThatInnocentMan_0

Our children's message for this week can also be heard, at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumFeb17childrensmessage

Last night, Pastor Dana Coyle of Freedom and St. Petrie Lutheran Churches in rural Ottawa, IL, continued our series of messages "This is Most Certainly True." He addressed the topic of sanctification, and what this means in the life of the believer. It can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/DanaCoyleSanctification_0

This week I started a series of messages that will take us through the Sundays of Lent. This series is titled "From Their Own Lips." We'll be looking at statements made by those involved in Jesus' death and their significance.

The first statement was made by Caiaphas, the high priest. He said it was better that one man die than for the entire nation to perish. This message can be heard and downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryItsBetterThatOneManDie

This week's children's message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumFeb10childrensmessage

Last night, we started our Lenten services a day late due to a winter storm. On Wednesday nights, we'll be hearing a series called "This Is Most Certainly True: A Survey of the Lutheran Distinctives." Myself, along with five other AFLC pastors will present this series of seven messages.

The first, delivered by me last night, addresses the topic of justification and the assurance of salvation. What we find in Scripture is that we're saved through faith alone in Jesus, and we remain in the grace of God through faith alone. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryJustification

We live in a society where people of many different beliefs coexist, each claiming to be the source of truth. In a world like this, how are we to know that the Christian faith, that the teaching of the apostles, is true? In 2 Peter 1:16-21, Peter tells us we can trust their message because they were there and saw everything first hand, and because of the prophetic word. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryFactorFiction_0

Jesus offers us many wonderful blessings, yet many people refuse them because of the call placed on their life. When we look to Scripture we find that the Christian life is a life of sacrifice. When Jesus calls us, he calls us to leave behind all that we value, all that's important to us in this life, and to follow him. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryLeavingItAllBehind

Our children's message for this week is also available to hear or download. In it we hear that we've been called to carry the gospel to all who don't know Jesus. We're to do it right here and to the ends of the earth. You can find it at http://www.archive.org/details/MarkFagerstromJan27childrensmessage

We often say that children are a blessing, but our attitude shows otherwise. We view them, at best, as a choice and, at worst, as an inconvenience. But, according to Scripture, children are a blessing. And as such, they should not be refused. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryABlessingofGod

We also uploaded our children's message this week where Molly talked to the kids about different places they can pray. It can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/MollyBlobaumJan20childrensmessage

Here in our society, we've become very skeptical of the miraculous and of the power of God. Even though, in the Christian faith, we confess that God is all-powerful, we don't believe that God can work in our lives or in our world. We've been trained to trust only that which can be seen or proven scientifically. But in Daniel 3 we see a great example of faith in God's power and that he can, in fact, do anything. Because of this, we can confidently approach God with our needs, knowing that he has the ability to help. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryGodIsAble

The real world, for us, is a world of problems and pain. A perfect life, a life of ease, is the stuff of fairy tales. However, in Scripture we receive a great hope. In the end, the suffering of the people of God will be over. They will live in a perfect place, a place free of pain and suffering. This, then, will be the real world. This message can be heard or downloaded at: http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheRealWorld_0

Throughout the centuries, mankind has worshipped many different gods. And this isn't just a think of the past, it's true also today. However, as we see in Isaiah 45:20-25, there is only one true God and only he can save. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryOneGodWhoSaves

Somehow and in some point in time, the message of Christmas got changed. No longer is it a message of grace and love. Instead, it's a message of works and entitlement. But the true message of Christmas is a message of redemption. And because of this, this is what should be reflected in our celebration. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryBecauseofHisMercy

As we read about the birth of Jesus, we see that he was no ordinary child. He is the Son of God and the Savior of mankind. If we really believe this, if we really believe in Jesus, if we really believe him to be the unique Son of God, then we must trust in him as our Savior and submit to him as our Lord. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryNoOrdinaryChild

When we look at the gospels, we see that Jesus made some great claims about himself. The apostles and the writers of the New Testament also made great claims about him. But is all of this true? In this message based on Matthew 11:2-15, we see that not only did Jesus make great claims, he backed them up. He fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies regarding the coming Messiah and he also did what no ordinary man can do. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryIsHetheOne

In addition to being a season of waiting, the season of Advent is also a season of preparation. In Matthew 3:1-12 we see that John the Baptist prepared the people for the coming of the kingdom of heaven by calling them to repentance. In the same way, we prepare for our Christmas celebration and for the Lord's return. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryASeasonofPreparation_0

We're now in the season of Advent. And one of the things we do at this time is anticipate the return of Christ. Jesus assures us that he will return, so we must be prepared for his coming; we must be expecting his coming. Without a heart of expectancy, we'll miss out on the Day of the Lord. To hear this message or to download it, click on this link, http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryASeasonofWaiting

The end times is a fascinating subject for so many people. They want to know when Jesus will return and what the end will be like. But as Jesus describes the end in Matthew 24, we see that his concern was for his people. He didn't want them to be led astray by false christs and false prophets who were to come. You can hear or download this message at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryWatchOut_3

During our Thanksgiving celebrations, we typically thank God for our material blessings. But, as we see in John 6, our greatest blessing isn't material or worldly; it's Jesus. He is our greatest reason for thanksgiving. This message is shorter than normal, since I encourage our people to share what God's been doing in their lives this past year during our Thanksgiving service. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryOurGreatestReasonforThanksgiving

The final judgment is an uncomfortalbe subject for many believers. Even though the subject of the end times intrigues them, the judgment seems like the negative and the scary side of the subject. But, as we see in Isaiah 63:1-6, the judgment is actually a blessing for the faithful. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheBlessingofJudgment

We all realize that we're imperfect people. But so often, we use this as an excuse to justify our sin. However, in this week's message, based on Mark 8:42-50, we see that we're to take our sin very seriously. We're to do everything possible, we're to make any sacrifice necessary, to ensure that we don't lead others to sin or live in wickedness ourselves. This message can be heard or downloaded at: http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryNobody_sPerfect

We all know that we're imperfect people and that we sin against others on a daily basis. We also know that all people are sinful, so we expect others to hurt us. But even though we know this, we find forgiveness to be a very difficult thing. We're usually willing to forgive, but only so far. But in this message, based on Matthew 18:23-35, we see that God wants us to forgive others just as he's forgiven us. You can hear it or download it by clicking this link:
http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheLimitofForgiveness

Most people today will not simply take Jesus at his Word. They're filled with doubt; they always think there's more to discover. And because of this doubt, they lack the faith by which we're saved. Believing in Jesus, however, means taking Jesus at his Word. It means that his Word, his promise and word of assurance, is enough for us. We can trust him and look to him with confidence. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTakingJesusatHisWord

Most of us are pretty good at wasting time. And not only do we waste time with our worldly responsibilities, we also waste time when it comes to our life of faith. We waste our time with the works of darkness, with things that hinder our faith, rather than using it to serve and glorify God. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryWastingTime

Ministry is a very frustrating thing. It often feels like little, if anything, is being accomplished. So it's easy to throw in the towel and quit. However, no matter how things may seem, we must press on. God has not revoked his calling, nor has he given up on the world. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryNeverSayDie

Even though we know we're to place our trust in God, that we're to rely upon him, most of us rely instead upon ourselves or our fellow man. In Jeremiah 17:5-10 God points out that, if we do so, we're under a curse. His blessing can only be received when we trust in him. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryInManWeTrust

Whether we recognize it or not, one of our main desires in life, one of our main pursuits, is our own glory and honor. However, according to Jesus, we're to live a life of humility. Glory and honor cannot be gained us, it's something that's given by God himself. And God exalts not the proud or the arrogant, but the humble. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryFortheGloryofMe

Man has always searched for the fountain of youth and the means to live forever. However, despite all of our efforts, despite all of the advances that have been made, everyone still dies. However, there is one who has power over death and who can give eternal life. His power over death assures us of the life he's promised, of the forgiveness of sins, and tells us where this life is to be found. This message can be heard or downlowaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryNeverEndingLife

Wisdom and knowledge are highly valued in our society. We can see this by the high priority placed on education. However, we've done everything possible to separate these things from the fear of the Lord. And apart from the fear of the Lord, apart from the knowledge of God, there is no true wisdom, knowledge, or understanding. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryTheFoundationofWisdom

The Christian life is a continual battle with ourselves. Our sinful nature pulls at us, drawing us to acts of wickedness. How can we live the Christian life with this going on within? In Galatians 5, Paul tells us to walk by the Spirit. We're to follow his leading, setting our minds on the things of the Spirit, and resist the flesh. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryWalkingBytheSpirit

We all know the Golden Rule, that we're supposed to treat others how we want to be treated. Jesus says that we're to love our neighbor as ourselves. However, we're always trying to find the limit of this love; we want to know when we can stop loving people. This message can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryLovingGod_sWay

Just about everyone knows who I'm talking about when I use the phrase, "I want to be like Mike." Because of his great talent, as well as his championships, money, and fame, many people wanted to be like Michael Jordan at the height of his career. In the same way, we all have role models that we look up to and aspire to be like. However, as we see in Ephesians 5:1-11, instead of imitating the ways of the world or the people of this world, we're to be imitators of God. He's to be our role model and the one we emulate. This message can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryLikeMike

If you encounter problems with that link, as I have this week, try this alternate link, http://www.ourmedia.org/ia/details/KentSperryLikeMike

My family and I took one last trip before school starts, so we had a guest speaker at Grace and Redeemer. Dave Jameson, from Freedom Lutheran Church in Ottawa, IL was with us. He spoke about being prepared for action, and how this can remove distractions that hinder our service of God. It can be heard or downloaded at http://www.archive.org/details/DaveJamesonPreparedforAction

This week at Grace, everyone, including I, was distracted during the sermon. A bat made its way into the sanctuary in the middle of the message, flying back and forth over the heads of the congregation! Hopefully those who didn't catch it all (the sermon, not the bat) will listen again to it.

We heard in Luke 19 how Jesus wept over the city of Jerusalem. He knew the judgment that was coming on them because they didn't recognize his coming. In the same way, we too should weep for the millions of people in our world who don't know Jesus and are, as a result of their sin, going to hell. And this sorrow should motivate us to obey the calling of God to carry the gospel to the ends of the earth.

It can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryDoYouEvenCare It can also be heard at http://www.ourmedia.org/ia/details/KentSperryDoYouEvenCare

We all lead very busy lives, we have many different goals, and many things that we value. It get's very hard to balance everything because things often conflict with one another. God also gets brushed aside in the process. In today's message, based on Matthew 13:44-46, we see that God's kingdom is so valuable that the one who finds it gladly gives up all else to possess it. It can be heard at http://www.archive.org/details/KentSperryWhat_sTrulyImportant It can also be heard at http://www.ourmedia.org/ia/details/KentSperryWhat_sTrulyImportant