Cumberland Trace Church of Christ (Formerly Lehman Ave Church of Christ)

December 7, 2025 - Sunday PM Sermon   FOUR FACES OF PROVIDENCE IN RUTH: "LOSS" (Chapter One) — Neal Pollard    Providence is God's continual __________________ over His created ___________________    I. WE WILL FACE ___________ KINDS OF ________ (1:1-5)       A. ____________________ Loss (1)       B. ____________________ Loss (1)       C. ____________________ Loss (5)    II. WE WILL FACE ______________________ IN TIMES OF ___________________ (1:6-15)    III. THE DECISIONS WE MAKE IMPACT OUR ____________________ FROM LOSS (1:16-22)   Duration

December 7, 2025 - Sunday AM Sermon    The Savior God Promised — Hiram Kemp  1. ______________________ the _______________________ (Genesis 3:15)    2. ___________________ all __________________ (Genesis 12:1-3; Isaiah 2:2-3)    3. _____________ the ________________ & confront _________________ (Isaiah 42:1-4)    4. ________________ __________________ to those in ________________ (Isaiah 9:1-2, 42:6-7)    5. _________________ Through ___________________ (Isaiah 53)    6. ____________ a New____________ & a New ______________ (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezek. 36:25-27)   Duration 34:13

December 7, 2025 - Sunday AM Bible Class   In this episode Neal announces a new quarter-long study of 2 Corinthians and explains why the class begins with Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians rather than First Corinthians. He places the letter in historical context (Acts 18–20), ties it to the later prison epistles (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon), and recommends earlier teaching on First Corinthians by Hiram and Brittany as helpful background. The episode gives an extended cultural and historical overview of Corinth — its Greek origins, destruction and re-founding under Rome, strategic isthmus location with two ports, the prominence of the slave trade, widespread pagan immorality (including how “to Corinthianize” became synonymous with sexual vice), and the city’s importance as the provincial capital of Achaia. These details set the stage for why the Corinthian church faced the problems Paul addresses. Key topics covered include a review of the problems raised in 1 Corinthians (division, idolatry, sexual immorality, marriage questions, worship abuses such as corruption of the Lord’s Supper, confusion over spiritual gifts, questions about the resurrection, and factional allegiance to leaders), and how the church largely responded to Paul’s first letter. The speaker explains that 2 Corinthians arises from a new crisis: a group of Jewish opponents who undermine Paul’s apostleship and claim apostolic authority themselves. The episode highlights the central themes and purposes of 2 Corinthians: Paul’s defense of his apostleship and leadership, the danger of false or unordained leaders, and the pastoral necessity of protecting church order. It emphasizes Paul’s personal investment in the Corinthian congregation — the suffering he endured, his pastoral care, and his insistence that God-ordained leadership matters because “sheep need a shepherd.” A major motif introduced is comfort: the speaker surveys 2 Corinthians 1:1–11 and summarizes the letter’s repeated emphasis on comfort in the midst of affliction. He identifies the sources of that comfort as God (the “Father of mercies”), Christ, other believers who have suffered, and the prayers of the community, and underscores Paul’s theme of abundant, effective consolation despite severe trials. Guests and contributors mentioned include teachers Hiram and Brittany (previous lectures on First Corinthians) and Chris (his Wednesday class on the prison epistles); the speaker also references Luke’s account in Acts and several Pauline passages as he reads and opens 2 Corinthians 1:1–11. Listeners can expect a mix of historical background, theological orientation to the letter, pastoral application about church leadership and suffering, and a reading of the opening verses to begin the study.   Duration 44:47

October 22, 2025 - Wednesday PM Bible Class In this episode we begin a verse-by-verse study of the book of Philippians, focusing on chapter 1 and its historical context. Chris sets the scene by reviewing Acts 16 — the Macedonian call that brought Paul, Silas, Timothy, and Luke to Philippi — and highlights key persons like Lydia and the Philippian jailer who played roles in the church’s founding. The episode also situates Paul’s letter historically, explaining his Roman imprisonment (house arrest around AD 60–62) and how that confinement shaped the letter’s emphasis. Topics covered include: the geographic and cultural background of Philippi (a Roman colony in Macedonia), the origin of the church there, and the circumstances that prompted Paul’s affectionate and joyful letter. The host unpacks major themes such as joy and rejoicing, the meaning of being a bondservant of Christ, the distinction between the believers Paul calls “saints” and his own humility, and the practical results of gospel partnership between Paul and the Philippian congregation (including their generosity). Key points emphasized: Paul’s overriding theme that true Christian joy is rooted in Christ and the gospel — not in changing circumstances; the joy of prayerful fellowship (Paul’s thankful, persistent prayers for the Philippians); the joy of purposeful living (how Paul’s chains actually advanced the gospel and emboldened other believers); and the famous tension in Paul between “to live is Christ” and “to die is gain,” showing his devotion to Christ and concern for the church’s growth. The episode highlights concrete illustrations from the text: the Macedonian call, Lydia’s conversion and hospitality, Paul’s witness to Caesar’s household and the palace guard, divisions among those preaching (envy vs. goodwill), and practical exhortations for love, knowledge, discernment, and bearing the fruits of righteousness. Listeners can expect historical background, theological teaching, and pastoral application designed to help them understand Philippians’ message of Christ-centered joy and faithful living.   Duration 40:00

November 30, 2025 - Sunday AM Sermon   Listening & Living Out the Word (James 1:17-27)  Receiving the Word Properly (James 1:17-21)  Hiram Kemp    I. _______________ the _____________ (James 1:17-18)    II. _____________ the _____________ (James 1:19-20)    III. ___________ Your ____________ Accordingly (James 1:21)    Responding Faithfully (James 1:22-27)  Neal Pollard    I.  SOME RESPOND WORTHLESSLY      A. They _______________ Themselves (22)      B. They ______________ the _____________ (23)      C. They Don't _______________ The _________________ (26)    II.    SOME RESPOND WORTHILY     A. They Do What The ____________ Says Do (22)      B. They _________________ In The _______________ (25)     C. They _________________ the _______________ (27)     D. They ____________ _____________ From The _______________ (27)   Duration 39:40

November 30, 2025 - Sunday AM Bible Class   This episode is the final class of the quarter and a wrap-up of a multi-week study of the Gospel of John, focusing on the remaining "I AM" statements. The instructor leads the group through extended readings and discussion from John 10, 11, 14, and 15, explores Old Testament echoes (Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34, Jeremiah 23, Isaiah, Micah, Exodus), and highlights John’s stated purpose in John 20:30–31: that readers may believe Jesus is the Christ and have life in his name. Topics covered include: "I am the Good Shepherd" (John 10) — Jesus’ sacrificial care, contrast with hirelings, intimate knowledge of his sheep, protection and provision; "I am the Resurrection and the Life" (John 11) — power over death, hope beyond the grave, and comfort in loss; "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life" (John 14) — Jesus as exclusive access to the Father, truth as the foundation for the path, and life as the goal; and "I am the True Vine" (John 15) — abiding in Christ, pruning, bearing fruit, and dependence on the vine for spiritual vitality. The class includes interactive dialogue with students, practical applications, and short teaching moments: why Jesus uses Old Testament imagery, how knowing the flock shapes ministry and relationships, the need to follow and bring others into the fold, and how trust in the resurrection eases anxiety about death and loss. Key takeaways: Jesus’ "I AM" sayings repeatedly point to his deity and his unique role as shepherd, savior, guide, and life-giver; faith here is presented as trust grounded in signs and witness rather than blind belief; abiding in Christ is essential for fruitfulness and growth; Christian discipleship requires intentional relationship-building (knowing the flock) and witness to others. The instructor also reflects on John’s deliberate repetition and selection of signs as a method for deepening faith and encouraging lifelong study. This is a classroom conversation rich with questions, anecdotes (including a youth’s perceptive remark and a brief sports anecdote about repetition), and pastoral application intended to help listeners expect thoughtful exposition, biblical connections, and practical steps for following Jesus as the Good Shepherd, the Resurrection, the Way, the Truth, and the Life.   Duration 41:52

October 15, 2025 - Wednesday PM Bible Class   In this episode the speaker completes a close study of Ephesians 5 and begins unpacking Ephesians 6, summarizing the major themes of the letter — life "in Christ," the centrality of the church, God’s eternal plan, unity, and peace — and showing how the first three doctrinal chapters lead to the practical applications of the last three. Topics covered include the Biblical model for marriage (wives’ submission and husbands’ sacrificial love modeled on Christ and the church), the church-Christ analogy, and how authentic leadership in the home eliminates abuse and fosters mutual respect. The discussion also examines children and parenting (honor, obedience, and discipline tempered by love) and the cultural background of first-century Ephesus to clarify passages addressing slaves and masters, with modern application to employer–employee relationships rather than an endorsement of slavery. The episode shifts to spiritual preparedness with an extended look at Ephesians 6: the call to "put on the whole armor of God" (truth, righteousness, readiness with the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word), the reality of spiritual warfare, and the need for persistent prayer and mutual intercession. Paul’s perspective as an "ambassador in chains" is highlighted — he asks for boldness to proclaim the mystery of the gospel rather than release from prison — and the host urges listeners to pray for missionaries and those suffering, referencing a recent urgent prayer request related to students in Tanzania. Key takeaways: understand submission in its biblical and cultural context and under God’s higher authority; husbands are called to sacrificial, nourishing love; parents must balance discipline and tenderness; the slave–master instructions point to ethical employer–employee conduct today; believers must equip themselves with all aspects of God’s armor and commit to prayer and bold witness even amid hardship.   Duration 41:58

November 23, 2025 - Sunday PM Sermon   The Great Example of Onesiphorus (2 Tim. 1:15-18)   Neal Pollard  I. HE WAS AN EXAMPLE OF _______________    II. HE WAS AN EXAMPLE OF ______________    III. HE WAS AN EXAMPLE OF ______________    IV. HE WAS AN EXAMPLE OF ______________    V. HE WAS AN EXAMPLE OF _______________    Duration 30:16

November 23, 2025 - Sunday AM Sermon   360 Degree Gratitude: Forward Gratitude in Advance (Habakkuk 3:17-19)  Hiram Kemp    1. ________________ God's ___________________ (Habakkuk 3:17-18)    2. ______________ Despite ________________ Circumstances (Habakkuk 3:18)    3. _______________ on God's ______________ (Habakkuk 3:19)    4. ______________ in _______________ Action (Habakkuk 3:19)    5. ______________ in God's _______________ __________________ (Habakkuk 3:19)    Duration 33:00

November 23, 2025 - Sunday AM Bible Class   In this episode the teacher delivers what he calls his final class in the book of John and clarifies last week’s discussion on worship and encouragement. The session reviews why worship must be centered on God and how Christians should build one another up: encouraging performers young and old, supporting preachers and leaders, and showing grace in our speech. Practical pastoral counsel stresses the need to be present at worship even when we feel unprepared, drawing on Hebrews 4:15–16 and other scriptures to reassure listeners that coming to the assembly provides mercy and help in time of need. The main biblical focus is on Jesus as the true temple. Using John and Old Testament references the speaker traces the theme of God dwelling with his people — from the tabernacle to Jesus (John 1:14) — and explains how Jesus is the connection between heaven and earth (John 1:51, Jacob’s ladder imagery). Jesus’ cleansing of the temple (John 2:13–17) is presented both as a display of his authority and as a call to purity: God’s house should be a house of prayer, not a den of profiteering. The talk also examines Jesus’ provocative claim about destroying the temple and raising it in three days, showing how that points to his death and resurrection and the replacement of the old temple system. Key scriptural moments covered include Jesus teaching openly in the temple (John 7), the leaders’ fear that Rome would remove their place (John 11), and how repeated New Testament passages emphasize access to the Father through Christ (John 14:6; Hebrews 10; 1 Timothy 2:5). The speaker ties these passages to practical lessons: do not cling to earthly buildings or possessions as security, stay rooted in scripture, look back on life experiences to understand Jesus’ words, and build your life on Christ rather than on shifting earthly foundations. Pastoral application throughout the lesson includes encouraging one another daily (Philippians 2; Ephesians 4; 1 Thessalonians 5:11), pursuing holiness and inward purity (James, Psalms, Proverbs), and rejoicing in the spiritual fruits and joy that come from abiding in Christ (John 6–8; Galatians 5:22). The episode closes with a reminder that Jesus is the final sacrifice and mediator who grants forgiveness and access to God, and the speaker urges listeners to know, obey, and abide in Christ as the true temple. Barrett is mentioned as taking the next class to summarize previous lessons; class participants contribute reflections during the discussion.   Duration 39:48

October 8, 2025 - Wednesday PM Bible Class   In this episode the speaker continues a verse-by-verse study of the prison epistles with a focused look at Ephesians chapter 5. After a brief review of the book’s structure—chapters 1–3 as doctrinal teaching and chapters 4–6 as practical application—the sermon centers on Paul’s charge to "walk worthy of the calling." The teaching places Ephesians 5 in its historical context (Paul in Roman custody, c. 60–62 AD) and highlights major themes such as unity, being "in Christ," and the spiritual blessings of the church. The bulk of the episode unpacks three interlocking ways Christians are to live: walking in love (vv. 1–7), walking in the light (vv. 8–14), and walking in wisdom (vv. 15–21). Walking in love emphasizes imitating Christ’s sacrificial love and avoiding behaviors unbefitting the saints—sexual immorality, impurity, greed, crude speech—and warns against deceptive teachings that excuse sinful living. The walking-in-light section contrasts darkness and light, explains the fruit of the light (goodness, righteousness, truth), and urges believers to expose evil rather than join it, with cross-references to John and other New Testament passages. When addressing wisdom, the speaker exhorts listeners to "walk circumspectly," redeem the time because the days are evil, and understand the will of the Lord through Scripture. He contrasts drunkenness with being filled with the Spirit and outlines practical means of Spirit-filled life: speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs; singing and giving thanks; and submitting to one another in the fear of God. Relevant passages from Matthew, Proverbs, and Romans are used to illustrate wisdom versus foolishness and the attitude of mutual honor among believers. The episode closes by previewing the remainder of Ephesians: upcoming discussion of marital responsibilities (wives and husbands), household relationships (parents and children, masters and slaves as employer/employee analogies), and the spiritual warfare material in chapter 6 about putting on the armor of God. No outside guests are featured; this is a pastoral teaching aimed at giving listeners clear doctrinal grounding and practical, everyday application for church life, family relationships, speech, and Christian conduct.   Duration 37:40

November 16, 2025 - Sunday PM Sermon   Why Only Jesus’ Church Will Be Saved (Hebrews 12:22-29) Hiram Kemp 1. _______________ Claimed as _______________ Citizens (Hebrews 12:22) 2. ________________ & _______________ by God (Hebrews 12:23) 3. _______________ Yet ________________ Savior (Hebrews 12:24) 4. _______________ & ______________ Living (Hebrews 12:25-29   Duration 25:11

November 16, 2025 - Sunday AM Sermon   360 Degree Gratitude: Outward (Luke 17:11-19) - How Gratitude Makes You Whole Hiram Kemp 1. ___________________ Reminds Us of Our _______________ (Luke 17:11-14) 2. __________________ Turns Us Back to __________________ (Luke 17:15) 3. _______________ Makes Us ______________ Out (Luke 17:16-18) 4. __________________ Expresses Itself in __________________ (Luke 17:16) 5. _________________ Brings Your Life ________________ Circle (Luke 17:18-19)   Duration 34:26

November 16, 2025 - Sunday AM Bible Class   In this episode a church class dives into John 4:21–24 to unpack what it means to "worship the Father in spirit and in truth." The host leads a practical, Scripture-based conversation that revisits Jesus’ exchange with the Samaritan woman and challenges listeners to evaluate the sincerity, direction, and authority of their worship. Key biblical passages referenced include John 4, Matthew 15, Acts 17, Colossians 2:23, Psalm 122:1, Proverbs 14:12, and Isaiah 42:8. The episode features contributions and anecdotes from congregation members—Barrett (on the "I AM" statements), Clint Harbison (on singing to God, not the crowd), Phil and others—making the discussion interactive and grounded in real worship experiences. Questions from attendees shape the conversation about practical church life and personal devotion. Major themes include distinguishing true worship from three kinds of false worship (vain/empty worship, ignorant worship, and will-worship/self-made religion), the scriptural requirement that worship be directed toward God alone, and why God does not have to accept worship offered outside His revealed will. The message emphasizes that worship is not a matter of personal preference but of obedience to God’s Word. The host and guests also address concrete, everyday issues: the importance of preparing your heart before coming to assembly, maintaining the right attitude and spirit during singing, prayer, and the Lord’s Supper, avoiding distractions that hinder others, and resisting the urge to use worship to impress people or elevate leaders. Practical tips include being mentally prepared, focusing on the meaning of the Lord’s Supper, and balancing encouragement with humility. The episode stresses a cultural shift from consumer-minded attendance to a giver’s posture—asking "What can I do for God?" rather than "What will I get?" Listeners are encouraged to point praise to God when affirming others, so encouragement builds faith rather than ego. In closing, the class reminds listeners that worship is the most important activity of the week and a rehearsal for eternity: learn to worship rightly now so you can join in heaven’s unending praise. Expect candid reflection, scripture teaching, practical application, and timely encouragement to prepare your heart and actions for authentic worship.   Duration 40:53

October 1, 2025 - Wednesday PM Bible Class   In this episode the speaker walks through Ephesians chapter 4, transitioning from the doctrinal foundation of the first three chapters to the practical, everyday implications for Christian living. The talk highlights major themes including the spiritual blessings we have in Christ, reconciliation between Jews and Gentiles, and the central call to unity in the church. Audience interaction (including remarks from Gary, Neil, Bob and others) helps illustrate the points and keeps the session conversational. Key doctrinal reminders include the seven "ones" (one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God) and the idea that Christ has ascended and given gifts to the church. The lecture examines the roles named in the text — apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors/shepherds and teachers — and explains their purpose in equipping the saints for ministry and building up the body until unity and maturity in Christ are reached. The speaker emphasizes the character qualities that promote unity: lowliness, gentleness, long-suffering, and above all humility. Practical application covers putting off the "old man" and putting on the "new man" through the renewing of the mind, resisting false teaching, and pursuing spiritual growth (moving from milk to meat). Concrete behavioral instructions are discussed at length: speak truthfully, manage anger ("be angry and do not sin" — deal with conflict quickly and avoid giving the devil a foothold), stop stealing and work to give to those in need, and avoid corrupt talk. Instead, believers are urged to be kind, tenderhearted and forgiving, following Christ’s example and remembering that they are sealed by the Holy Spirit. Other themes include church growth as a result of every member contributing their gifts, the importance of mentorship and teaching, and biblical counsel on discernment and maturity (references to Hebrews and Romans are used to underscore growth expectations). The episode closes with a challenge to live out the contrasts of Ephesians — old vs. new, death vs. life — and practical encouragement to pursue unity, holiness and loving service within the church.   Duration 40:31

November 9, 2025 - Sunday PM Sermon   How Not to Raise Worthless Kids (1 Sam. 2-3)  Neal Pollard  Eli Raised Worthless Children...  I. THROUGH ______________ PARENTING (2:29)  II. THROUGH ____________ REBELLION (2:29)  III. THROUGH HIS ______ __________ (2:29)  IV. THROUGH HIS __________ TO __________ HIS CHILDREN (3:13)  Contrast His Parenting with That Of ___________ (ch. 1-2)    Duration 28:42

November 9, 2025 - Sunday AM Sermon 360 Degree Gratitude: INWARD (Philippians 4:4-7) Neal Pollard  This Text Shows Us How To...  I. _________ OUR HEARTS FOR ____________ (4-5)     A. ___________ (4)     B. Be ________ (5)     C. ________ The Coming Of ________ (5)  II. _________ OUR HEARTS FROM _______________ (6)     A. Don't __________ (6)     B. __________ (6)  III. _________ OUR HEARTS THROUGH ___________ (7)  Conclusion   A. Paul Is Calling for A ______ Heart in This Text!    Duration 29:06

November 9, 2025 - Sunday AM Bible Class   In this episode Barrett continues a study of the Gospel of John, focusing on the distinctive "I AM" statements of Jesus. Building on last week’s lesson, the discussion places John’s words in first-century Judea—under Roman occupation and steeped in Old Testament expectation—and explains why Jesus’ metaphors were both surprising and provocative to his contemporaries. The episode covers the historical and theological context of John (likely written around A.D. 90 for a mixed Jewish and Gentile audience) and explains how each "I AM" statement draws on everyday imagery and Old Testament echoes (Exodus, Isaiah, Psalms, Deuteronomy) to reveal Jesus’ identity and mission. The host reads and unpacks three of the seven statements in detail: "I am the bread of life" (John 6), "I am the light of the world" (John 8), and "I am the door/gate" (John 10), showing how each image communicates spiritual sustenance, guidance, protection, and exclusive access to the Father. Contributors in the conversation include Jeremy, Neal, Hiram, Roger, Russell, Rhonda and other class participants, who bring questions, Old Testament connections, and real-life applications. The episode also reflects on practical themes—why people struggled to accept Jesus then and now, barriers like pride, tradition, and fear of social consequences, and how modern pressures and instant gratification can distract from spiritual hunger. A memorable comparison to the Challenger disaster illustrates how ignoring warnings and truth can have tragic consequences. Listeners can expect close readings of John 6, 8, and 10, clear explanations of key Old Testament ties, examples of how to live out these metaphors today (prayer, community, Bible study, being a light to others), and an invitation to examine whether they truly know Jesus or merely know about him. The host closes by previewing a continuation of the series that will cover the remaining "I AM" statements in a future session.   Duration 39:59

September 24, 2025 - Wednesday PM Bible Class In this episode we dive into Ephesians chapter 3 as part of a continuing study of Paul's prison epistles (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon), written while Paul was under house arrest around AD 60–62. The speaker reviews major themes from Ephesians—spiritual blessings in Christ, the role of the Holy Spirit, grace through faith, God’s eternal plan for redemption, and the unity of Jews and Gentiles in the church—before unpacking chapter 3 in detail. Key topics include Paul’s self-identification as a prisoner of Christ for the Gentiles, his stewardship/dispensation of God’s grace, and the revelation of the “mystery” that Gentiles are fellow heirs and members of the body of Christ through the gospel. The episode highlights Paul’s humility and gratitude, his calling to minister to the Gentiles, and his emphasis on God’s unsearchable, unfathomable riches in Christ. Chris connects these doctrinal points to pastoral application: how the first three chapters of Ephesians present doctrine and spiritual blessings, while chapters 4–6 move into practical instruction for Christian living. Paul’s prayer for believers is examined—asking that they be strengthened in the inner man, that Christ dwell in their hearts, and that they comprehend (as much as possible) the width, length, depth, and height of Christ’s love. The episode also explores the call to unity in the church (Ephesians 4), emphasizing humility, gentleness (meekness), patience, and bearing with one another in love as essential to maintaining the unity of the Spirit. Listeners will hear cross-references to Acts, 1 Corinthians, 1 Timothy, Philippians, and 1 Peter to illuminate Paul’s ministry, his self-awareness as “less than the least,” and the broader biblical context of God’s revealed plan. Expect reflections on prayer, spiritual maturity, the manifold wisdom of God revealed through the church, and practical challenges of walking worthy of the calling—living out humility, unity, and sacrificial love within the body of Christ.   Duration 42:31

November 2, 2025 - Sunday PM Sermon Unstoppable: How Christianity Thrives in Any Age (Acts 5:12-42)  Hiram Kemp  1. ___________________________ with the _________________________ Work (Acts 5:12-16)  2. ________________________ Words of __________________________ (Acts 5:20)  3. ___________________ God, not ____________________ (Acts 5:29)  4. ______________________ with an ______________________ God (Acts 5:39)  5. _________________________ in ________________________ (Acts 5:40-41)  6. ________________________ to ________________________ (Acts 5:42)   Duration 36:29