UNFINISHED: The Least of These - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

The work of our salvation might be finished, but we still have something to do. In the continuation of the UNFINISHED sermon series, Dr. Brian Keesler shares another work that Jesus left for his church to do on this earth—take care of the least of these. Part of our duty as members of the body of Christ is to clothe the naked, feed the hungry, and comfort the widow. But are we walking out that lifestyle? Our contribution to this command can produce great results—negatively or positively. Dr. Keesler shares a statistic that if every Christian were to tithe then world hunger cease to exist. As you watch this sermon, prepare to examine your own heart and actions to determine if you really are carrying the love of Jesus.

Scripture References

• Matthew 25:31-46 (NKJV)

• 1 John 3:16-17 (NKJV)

UNFINISHED: On Purpose - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

The work of our salvation might be finished, but we still have something to do. In the introduction to the sermon series, UNFINISHED, Dr. Brian Keesler delivers a stirring message about our commission as Christians to go into all the world and preach the gospel. Numerous times Jesus commanded His disciples to go, yet many in the church today are staying still. Dr. Keesler reminds listeners that those who do not follow the Words of Jesus are described as fools in the Bible. If we truly want to say that Jesus is the foundation of our life we must follow all of His commands, not just a few. And if we truly want to love our neighbor as ourself we must share the good news with them. We cannot just sit back and bask in our salvation experience, we must share it with those around us. There is an unfinished work and Jesus has commissioned us to complete it. As you watch this sermon prepare for an increased desire to share the good news of Jesus with the lost.

Scripture References

• Matthew 7:24-29 (NKJV)

• Matthew 28:18-20 (NKJV)

• Mark 16:15-20 (NKJV)

• Luke 24:46-49 (NKJV)

• John 20:19-23 (NKJV)

• Acts 1:8 (NKJV)

Reconciled in Jesus - Dr. Brian Keesler

The Trap of Unforgiveness - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

Along life’s journey all Christians are bound to come across traps that have been set by the enemy. Those traps include comparison, distraction, offense, and one of the most deadly—unforgiveness. In the conclusion of the Traps sermon series, Dr. Brian Keesler delivers a crucial message about avoiding the trap of unforgiveness. Dr. Keesler likens unforgiveness to carrying around a metal bucket filled with acid. Everything might look alright from the outside, but before long the acid will eat its way to the outside of the bucket. Harboring unforgiveness might not seem like a big deal at first, but it causes a landslide of issues including hindering the blessing of God, stopping your prayers from being answered, and turning into a root of bitterness. Remaining in unforgiveness locks pain in while simultaneously locking God out. In order to stay out of this trap, we must learn to forgive just as Jesus forgave–constantly and immediately. Jesus did not wait for anyone to repent before He died on the cross and He does not continue to hold our sins against us. We too must completely release those who have hurt us, even if they never feel any remorse. After watching this sermon you’ll not only be able to decipher between Biblical repentance and human sorrow, but you will also gain a greater understanding of how to walk in true forgiveness.

Scripture References

• Matthew 6:14-15 (NKJV)

• Ephesians 4:29-31 (NKJV)

The Trap of Offense - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

What is holding you back? In part three of the sermon series, Traps, Dr. Brian Keesler unpacks another common snare that people get caught in—offense. Although plenty of opportunities for offense exist, they can only occur with your consent. As governors of our mind, will, and emotions, it is up to us to decide if we are going to get offended. Choosing to remain out of offense is so important because bitterness can otherwise take root. Several ways to combat offense includes studying and loving the Word of God and making a conscious decision to forgive quickly. Dr. Keesler also reminds listeners of the connectivity of the body of Christ. When one person in the body of Christ wins, we all win. If one person in the body of Christ is hurt, we all hurt. After watching this sermon, expect to walk in new freedom as you release offenses that have weighed you down for years.

Scripture References

• Luke 17:1 (NKJV)

• Hebrews 12:14–15 (NKJV)

• Romans 12:14–18 (NKJV)

• Ephesians 4:1–3 (NKJV)

The Trap of Comparison - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

If only I was taller. If only I was smarter. If only I was prettier. The items people use to compare themselves to others is endless, but waiting at the end of every judgement is a trap. In the continuation of the sermon series, Traps, Dr. Keesler outlines yet another pitfall that ensnares too many of God’s people–comparison. Many believe if they possessed every item of perfection on their list: status, wealth, popularity, etc., that they would be happier than they are now. Making this assumption is easy, but the result is never satisfaction. Only two results ever come from measuring oneself to another: an attitude of despair and a mindset of fatality. My life must not be as important because I can’t _____, or why should I even try because I’ll never be as good as _____.  Dr. Keesler admonishes that we must stop thinking about what could have been and start pursuing God’s purpose for the present time. Jesus is the only answer to the trap of comparison and everyone will always come in second next to His perfection. Our job as a Christian isn’t to constantly measure ourselves to one another, it’s to constantly labor to renew our minds. As you watch this sermon, discover areas where you have allowed comparison to constrict your growth and free yourself of this debilitating trap once and for all.

Scripture References

• John 10:10 (NKJV)

• 2 Corinthians 10 (NKJV, TPT)

Compassion of Jesus - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and if He was willing to heal then, He is willing to heal now. In the sermon, Compassion of Jesus, Dr. Brian Keesler delivers a message of hope and healing for those dealing with a broken heart. It doesn’t matter if the wounds in your heart are fresh or happened years ago, Jesus cares about your wellbeing and wants to bring restoration to every area of your life. To demonstrate this willingness, Dr. Keesler takes listeners through numerous examples in the Bible where Jesus displays compassion on those that came to Him. It didn’t matter what issue they had—physical or emotional—if they came to Him, Jesus healed them. The same is true for us. The first step we need to take to receive healing is to just come to Jesus. It doesn’t matter what we have gone through, if we come to Him He will deliver us. We might have an adversary that will try to lock us down with all kinds of wounds, but we also have an advocate that can deliver us from any problem that we might have. As you watch this sermon, allow the healing ministry of Jesus to bring deep restoration into the areas where you have been stifled by rejection, trauma, or loss.

Scripture References

• Matthew 9:35-36 (NKJV)

• Psalms 34:17-18 (NKJV)

• Luke 4:18-19 (NKJV)

• Isaiah 61:1-3 (NKJV)

• Hebrews 13:8 (NKJV)

The Trap of Distraction - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

Distractions. They’re inconvenient, unavoidable, and more dangerous than you think. In the revisitation of the sermon series, Traps, Dr. Brian Keesler takes another much needed look at the downfalls of distractions. Distractions come in various forms, but all of them hinder our growth and keep us from reaching our full potential. To illustrate this point further, Dr. Keesler uses the Gap Theory which looks at where you are at now, where you want to go, and what might hinder you in the middle. Many times the blockades to our success are only excuses and distractions. Although unavoidable, there are ways to limit the effect of distractions. One of the primary ways to reach your destination is to really place value on the goal you are trying to achieve. Seventy-eight percent of people will make a purchase if they believe the item will add value to their life. What do you value the most? Is it comfort and entertainment or is it your relationship with Jesus Christ? Another way to avoid distractions is to ignore false senses of emergency. What seems important and urgent, typically is not as pressing as we think. Living a distracted life may not seem like a big deal, but when you dig deeper you find much is at stake. Families are at stake. Nations are at stake. And most importantly, the kingdom of God is at stake.

Scripture Reference

• Psalms 119:110 (NKJV)

Wake Up, Stand Up, Speak Up - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

Terrible. Stressful. Perilous. Paul was very clear in 2 Timothy 3 that there would be dark and difficult times in the end days. In the sermon, Wake Up, Stand Up, Speak Up, Dr. Brian Keesler acknowledges that we are indeed in those days and that the Body of Christ needs to rise up and shine the light of Jesus. Despite the urgency of the times we are living in, many members of the church have fallen asleep and are not walking in their authority. More than ever we need to wake up, rise up, and stand up for the gospel of Jesus. When the church falls asleep, the entire world pays. Dr. Keesler reminds the church that Jesus never had a problem proclaiming right and wrong and if we want to follow in his footsteps, we must do the same. Dr. Keesler also encourages the church that one of the ways they can exercise their God-given authority is by voting in the upcoming election. He reminds the church that they are not voting for a personality, they are voting for a mechanism. It’s high time to wake up, the world needs us.

Scripture References

• 2 Timothy 3:1

• 1 Timothy 4:2

Through the Storm Part 3: Who Do the Storms Come From? - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

The Bible states that every good gift comes from God, yet many Christians still accredit Him for every event they encounter in their life—even the storms. In this perspective-shifting sermon, Dr. Brian Keesler sheds some much needed light on a common question—did God send the storm? To help answer this question, Dr. Keesler begins his message by clarifying the true meaning of God’s sovereignty. Although God is the greatest authority, He does not have complete control over everything that happens. To illustrate the instability of the belief that God is in complete control, Dr. Keesler takes the congregation through some through-provoking scenarios. If God causes everything to happen, does that mean we should praise Him if our house burns down and all of our loved ones perish? It was His will after all. Most would agree this makes no sense. If one believes that God causes every situation, then they must credit Him for all the evil in addition to the good. Another supporting event is found in Mark 4:35 where the disciples are facing a disastrous storm. As their ship began to fill with water the disciples woke Jesus who was sleeping in the stern of the ship. Jesus got up and rebuked the wind and the sea. If God truly is in charge of every event, then didn’t Jesus rebuke God by calming the storm? In summary, the storms that come up against us are not God’s will. His plans are to prosper us and give us hope, not to produce disease and disaster. If you find yourself in a storm, know that it is not from God, and it’s not punishment for something you did wrong. What you do need to know is that you have the ability to command the storm to hush, and be still.

Scripture References

• Psalms 34:17-19 (NKJV)

• John 16:33 (NKJV)

• Mark 4:35 (NKJV)

Through the Storm Part 2: Storms Come Even When We Obey - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

No matter who you are or what you’ve done, storms will come up in your life. In the revisitation of the sermon series, Through the Storm, Dr. Brian Keesler comforts those finding themselves in the middle of a trial by reminding them that Jesus is the wave walker. Dr. Keesler stresses that the presence of a storm generally has nothing to do with what that person has done, but rather who they are and where they’re going. If you find yourself in a trial or tribulation, it is likely happening because you are walking in obedience. Dr. Keesler uses the account of the disciples crossing the lake in Mark 6:45 to illustrate this concept. The disciples obeyed Jesus’s command to get in the boat and head toward Bethsaida. As the disciples traveled to the destination that Jesus commanded, they encountered a storm. When Jesus saw the disciples struggling at rowing and heard their cry for help, He got in the boat and calmed the storm. This passage notes that Jesus was ready to pass them by before He heard their cry. The same is true for those found in Christ. Jesus is attentive and willing to respond, but the righteous must be willing to ask for help. As you watch this encouraging sermon, find reassurance in any situation knowing that Jesus sees you, your trial is not because of anything you’ve done, and He is about ready to get in your boat. 

Scripture References

• Psalms 34:17-19 (NKJV)

• Mark 6:45-52 (NKJV)

• John 16:33 (NKVJ)

Through the Storm Part 1: The Afflictions of the Righteous - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the LORD delivers him out of them all. In the introduction to the sermon series, Through the Storm, Dr. Brian Keesler brings encouragement to the body from Psalms 34:19. Dr. Keesler reminds the church that living a perfect life does not equate to having a problem-free life. As long as we live in the world, we will encounter various storms. Even Jesus who was without sin was faced with temptations from the enemy during moments of weakness. Despite the surety of the storm, Dr. Keesler advises listeners to maintain their hope because Jesus promised deliverance from every trial. As you watch this sermon, find encouragement as you secure yourself in the truth that God is greater than anything you will ever face.

Scripture References

Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the LORD delivers him out of them all. Psalms 34:19 (NKJV)

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NKJV)

Letting Go - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

When you’re running a race, even the slightest addition of weight can slow you down. In this self-reflective sermon, Dr. Brian Keesler expounds upon Hebrews 12:1-2 before asking listeners to search their own hearts for anything that may be keeping them from running their race with endurance. These hidden weights may include bitterness, unforgiveness, pride, etc. The Christian life is not a sprint, it’s a marathon. Therefore, it is imperative that we uncover and strip off any hidden burdens that may hinder our journey.

Scripture References

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV)

Finding Joy Part 4: Joy in the Trial - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

You might not always feel happy, but you can always be full of joy. In Part 4 of the sermon series, Finding Joy, Dr. Brian Keesler brings an insightful message on how to have joy in the trial. Dr. Keesler begins his sermon by pressing in on the fact that the tests and trials we encounter are not from God. God is not evil nor will He ever employ evil to bring humility or strength to His children. Dr. Keesler also reminds believers of their ability to either lose their peace during a test or to count it all as joy. If you’re a follower of Christ, you always have cause for joy because the outcome for a Christian is always victory. If you’re not winning now, you’re just getting ready to win. The problems that we face will eventually fade away but our inheritance in Christ will always stand. We will always have our salvation and the hope of an eternity in heaven. As we ponder upon God’s promises we build up our ability to rejoice through every situation. God can and will pull you out of a storm even better than you were when you walked in to it. As you watch this sermon, anchor yourself in the ability to weather any storm when you learn the power of patience and the consistency of a victorious outcome for those who are in Christ. 

Scripture References

• James 1:2-4 (NKJV, TPT)

• 1 Peter 1:3-9 (NKJV, TPT)

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Finding Joy Part 3: Joy in Giving - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

You might not always feel happy, but you can always be full of joy. In Part 3 of the sermon series, Finding Joy, Dr. Brian Keesler continues to share ways believers can remain joyful, even amidst adverse circumstances. In this message, Dr. Keesler focuses on how to find joy in giving. Dr. Keesler begins his sermon by differentiating between the two types of emotions that motivate someone to give—fear and love. People either give to God because they love Him or because they fear Him. Many Christians view God as a “cosmic mafia boss” that is going to come to collect if they don’t pay up. If a person gives just to fill an obligation or to avoid punishment their motive is wrong. Giving that is based on this mentality rarely ever results in joy. On the contrary, when a person gives out of their love for God and the brethren they are able to experience true joy. The very nature of God is to give and as born-again believers we should share in His desire to freely give. As you watch this sermon prepare to see giving in a whole new light and experience the overwhelming joy that comes from having a generous heart.

Scripture References

• 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 (TPT)

• 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 (TPT)

• Romans 15:13 (TPT)

Finding Joy Part 2: Joy in God's House - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

You might not always feel happy, but you can always be full of joy. In the continuation of the sermon series, Finding Joy, Dr. Brian Keesler shares how attending church can increase your joy, if you have the right perspective. You can either view church as a chore on your checklist or as participation in heaven’s agenda here on earth. King David discovered this truth and proclaimed his gladness about going to the House of the Lord in Psalms 122:1. When was the last time you were this exuberant to go to church? Have you ever found yourself rejoicing in the car on your way to church because you were so enthusiastic? If you think church is boring, it’s time to remind yourself of what actually happens inside those four walls: the very presence of God is manifested, souls are rescued from an eternity in hell, bodies are healed, and callings are revealed. As you watch this sermon, prepare for a perspective shift as you begin to see church attendance in a new light. Never again will you view church as a chore.

Scripture Reference

“I was glad when they said to me, Let us go to the house of the LORD.” Psalms 122:1 (NKJV)

Finding Joy Part 1: Full of Joy - Dr. Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

You might not always feel happy, but you can always be full of joy. In the first part of the sermon series, Finding Joy, Dr. Brian Keesler explains the difference between the emotion of happiness and the spiritual fruit of joy. Joy is a supernatural fruit and comes from the Holy Spirit, while happiness is a basic human emotion that results from circumstances/happenings. Joy does not result from what is happening around you; joy results from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit within a born-again believer. Dr. Keesler then shares biblical practices that believers can employ to remain joyful despite their circumstances. Those practices include walking in close relationship with Jesus and believing upon the Word of God. As you learn more about the benefits of maintaining an intimate walk with the Lord, prepare for an infilling of joy.

Scripture References

“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. John 15:5

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

God's Gifts - Pastor Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

Are the gifts of God still in operation today? How do I test the validity of a move of the spirit? Pastor Brian Keesler answers these questions and others in the sermon, God’s Gifts. Pastor Brian expounds upon the three categories of gifts mentioned in the Bible: gifts of the Father, gifts of the Holy Spirit, and gifts of the Son and explains the four major belief systems centered around their operation. Learn more about the function of fivefold ministers, the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the various levels of grace given by God.

Scripture References

And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13

Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in various tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 1 Corinthians 12:7-10

We have different gifts according to the grace given us. If one’s gift is prophecy, let him use it in proportion to his faith; if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is giving, let him give generously; if it is leading, let him lead with diligence; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. Romans 12:6-8

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Good Ground - Pastor Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

Is the soil of your heart good ground? In Part 3 of the sermon series, Receiving the Word, Pastor Brian Keesler shares how the condition of our heart plays a key role in our ability to receive the Word. Outlined in his message are three practices that a person can follow to always get the most out of the Word they hear. Those methods include studying the message to verify its accuracy, meditating upon the Word to extract the most “nutrition” from it, and actually putting it into practice. The Word is one of the primary things satan will try to steal from a believer. When satan tries to steal the Word we need to double-down on it, not back down from it. After listening to this sermon you will be able to: determine the condition of the soil of your heart; ensure your heart is ready to receive all you can from the Word of God; and make sure the Word always works for you.

Scripture References

• Mark 4:1-9 (NKJV)

• 1 Thessalonians 2:13 (NKJV)

• James 1:21 (NKJV)

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Stony Ground - Pastor Brian Keesler

Sermon Recap

Are you living a life of balance? Mark 4:16-17 speaks of the Word falling on the stony ground of someone who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness, but do not have any root so they can only endure for a short time. In part two of the sermon series, Receiving the Word, Pastor Brian Keesler shares that if your walk with the Lord seems to have halted it may be time to ask yourself if your Bible reading and prayer life is greater than, less than or equal to your extracurricular activities.