Jesus Alone is God

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/DOCTRINE_OF_HOLINESS.pdf</li><li> Article of faith - https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/DOCTRINE_OF_THE_CHURCH.pdf </li><li>Related: https://apostolicinternational.com/books/WHY_GO_TO_CHURCH.pdf </li><li>Article of faith - https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/DAVID_AT_ZIKLAG__THE_END_OF_FEAR.pdf </li><li> This sermon explores the trials and tribulations of David, as described in the 1 Samuel in the Bible, focusing on the theme of fear, faith, and personal redemption. It begins with David's despair and fear of Saul leading him to seek refuge with the Philistines, and the consequences of this decision. David, despite being a giant of faith, experiences a crisis of faith, driven by fear, and seeks refuge in the land of the Philistines. The sermon emphasizes that like David, believers too may experience such crisis and seek refuge in inappropriate places, although knowing it's not the right path. The sermon underscores the negative results of acting out of fear, as David is asked to battle against Israel and his granted city, Ziklag, is destroyed. The term 'Ziklag' is used as a metaphor for a turning point, symbolizing the end of fear. Despite adversity, David finds his faith again and leans on the Lord. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God during their 'Ziklag' moments and not to let fear lead them astray. This sermon advises believers to encourage themselves in the Lord Jesus Christ and not to compromise their faith out of fear.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/GOOD_FRIENDS_WILL_CARRY_YOU_TO_JESUS.pdf </li><li> This sermon emphasizes the importance of good friends who guide us towards Jesus, as seen in Mark 2 when four friends take a paralytic man to Jesus for healing. Friends provide a sense of belonging and support, highlighting the scripture Proverbs 17:17, "A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity". Friendship in Christianity comes with responsibility. The sermon argues the paralytic man was blessed with four faithful friends who took him to Jesus despite his deteriorating state. It encourages Christians to invest in such friendships. Using the example of Philip, Andrew, and Nathanael, it illustrates how friends can lead each other to Jesus. The friends' determination in overcoming obstacles to take the paralytic man to Jesus is also celebrated. Sin, described as the enemy of good friendship, is believed to be the cause of the man's condition. The sermon asserts that friendship can heal through Jesus. Lastly, it prompts reflection on the health of our own friendships and encourages us to bring them to Jesus for healing.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/JESUS_OUR_REFUGE.pdf </li><li> The sermon compares the biblical characters of Noah and Lot, emphasizing how Noah's devotion extended to his family and his primary focus was on building the ark, symbolizing his commitment to heavenly duties. In contrast, Lot is portrayed as someone primarily concerned with worldly gains. Noah, despite living in a corrupt and wicked era, is seen as a symbol of righteousness, highlighting that with God, it is possible to maintain holiness even in ungodly places.The sermon also draws parallels between Noah's Ark and Jesus Christ. Just as there was only one ark, one door, and one window to save Noah's family from the flood, the preacher asserts that there is only one savior, Jesus, who can protect us from the coming destruction. The ark, despite facing harsh conditions, stayed intact because it was built according to God's word, symbolizing the indestructible nature of faith in Jesus.Moreover, the preacher highlights the unity among different creatures in the ark, illustrating that entering into Christ creates a transformative effect. The ark's multiple rooms and floors are used metaphorically to emphasize the need for tolerance and love among church members, with God having the power to change our characters. The sermon ultimately emphasizes the importance of seeking refuge in Jesus, who serves as our spiritual ark.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/IF_JESUS_IS_THE_ONLY_GOD_TO_WHOM_DID_HE_PRAY.pdf </li><li> This sermon addresses the question of to whom Jesus prayed if He is the only God. First, the sermon establishes that God is indivisibly and mathematically one, and Israel has always recognized and worshiped one God. In Mark 12:29, Jesus himself affirms that God is one.Next, the sermon affirms that Jesus is both the Holy Spirit and the Son. In John 14:18, Jesus promises to come back as the Holy Spirit to be with the apostles. 2 Corinthians 3:17 equates the Lord with the Spirit, and Galatians 4:6 calls the Holy Spirit the spirit of the Son. From these scriptures, it is clear that the Spirit received by believers is none other than the Spirit of Jesus Christ.The sermon then delves into the need for intercession in prayer. In Romans 8:26-27, the apostle Paul writes how believers struggle to pray as they should and often fail to pray according to God's will. In God's mercy, He intercedes through believers. The sermon emphasizes that God requires sincere and fervent intercession for His will to be accomplished on Earth.The sermon proceeds to illustrate the importance of intercession throughout the Bible, citing examples such as Abraham interceding for Sodom and Gomorrah and Ezra's prayerful response to Israel's sins. Only God Himself, who is Jesus, was found worthy to intercede effectively for humanity's salvation. This is supported by Isaiah 53:4-5, which speaks of Jesus bearing humanity's griefs and transgressions.Regarding Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, the sermon asserts that the cup, agony, and rebellious will being referenced were not Jesus' but humanity's. It emphasizes that Jesus, being sinless and incapable of sinning, couldn't be praying for Himself. The sermon refutes the idea that Jesus prayed to the Father or that His human nature prayed to His divine nature, stating that these explanations do not align with Scripture. Instead, it aligns with Romans 8:26, which states that the Spirit itself makes intercession.The sermon concludes by urging Christians to reject confusing man-made doctrines and return to the doctrine of the Apostles. It asserts that the prayers of Jesus were addressed back to Himself, as He alone is God, and any belief otherwise leads to a plurality of Gods. The sermon affirms that God is one and declares that Jesus, as God manifested in the flesh, intercedes for believers. It encourages the listeners to allow Jesus to labor in prayer through them, bringing forth spiritual blessings.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/SEEKING_THE_LORD_LIKE_MARY_MAGDALENE.pdf </li><li> This sermon focuses on Mary Magdalene's encounter with Jesus after His resurrection. Mary's deep love and devotion to Jesus set her apart from the other disciples. She refused to leave the sepulcher and wept, stooping down to look inside. The sermon suggests that Mary's love for Jesus was profound because she had been forgiven of many sins and delivered from seven evil spirits.Mary's intense seeking led her to see two angels in the tomb. However, instead of being distracted or amazed by the angels, she remained focused on her mission to find Jesus. Mary's love cast out fear, and she was unafraid of the angelic presence. The sermon emphasizes that only Jesus can bring true comfort and wipe away all tears.Initially, Mary did not recognize Jesus when He appeared before her. She mistook Him for the gardener until Jesus called her by name. Mary's unwavering love and devotion to Jesus allowed her to respond when He called her. The sermon encourages us to remember that Jesus calls each person by name and desires a close relationship with us.The sermon concludes by highlighting the significance of Jesus' voice in drawing people closer to Him. Just as He called Peter and Lazarus, Jesus calls individuals today to draw near to Him. The sermon reminds us of the promise of a new name given by the Lord and encourages us to listen to the voice of the Spirit speaking to the churches.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/LESSONS_FROM_THE_OLIVE_TREE.pdf </li><li> The sermon is based on the parable of Jotham from Judges 9:8-15, focusing on the significance of the olive tree as a symbol of humility, faithfulness, and service to God and humanity. The olive tree was chosen by the other trees to be their king but declined because it recognized its purpose in honoring God and serving others through its fatness (abundance) and the oil it produced. The sermon highlights the biblical references and symbolism associated with the olive tree, including its role in the Ark of Noah, the Temple in Israel, and the Garden of Gethsemane. The sermon encourages believers to emulate the olive tree's characteristics of knowing the source of their blessings, remaining faithful, and prioritizing service to God and others over worldly ambitions.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/CLEAVING_TO_NAOMI.pdf </li><li> The sermon is centered around the story of Ruth and Naomi from the book of Ruth. Naomi is a symbol of the Great Commission given by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20, where believers are commanded to go and teach all nations. It is important to recognize the value of the Gospel and cleave to it, just as Ruth recognized the worth of Naomi and refused to let go. Ruth was committed to Naomi, so much so that she made a declaration to stay with her and follow her wherever she goes, even to the extent of adopting Naomi's people and God as her own. There is a parallel between Ruth's commitment and the disciples' willingness to follow Jesus when He called them. As believers, we need to allow the Gospel to lead and guide them, rather than determining its course ourselves. We must love all people of Jesus, regardless of divisions caused by race, culture, class, politics, or other issues in the world. The sermon also addresses the concept of dying to self and communal/national identity, stating that believers should be willing to give up personal plans and embrace the global mission of spreading the Gospel. It references biblical prophecies about global migration and mingling of different people in the last days, seeing it as a sign of the impending return of Jesus. The core message of the Gospel is presented briefly, stating that there is one God who manifested in a body, died on the cross for the forgiveness of sins, rose again, and poured out the Holy Spirit. The response to this understanding is repentance, baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. The sermon concludes by highlighting Ruth's willingness to die to herself and her identity, which led to blessings for herself and future generations. It encourages listeners to cleave to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and become vessels through which all nations can be blessed.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/THE_DIVIDED_GARMENTS_OF_JESUS.pdf </li><li> In this sermon, the focus is on the Roman soldiers dividing the garments of Jesus after His crucifixion. The preacher interprets this event symbolically, highlighting several key points.Firstly, the sermon emphasizes that Jesus had no earthly possessions except for the clothes He wore. The Roman soldiers represent the Gentiles, indicating that the Gospel was of great interest to them, unlike the Jews who rejected Jesus. The division of the garments into four parts represents the universality of the Gospel, signifying its message reaching all corners of the world.The sermon also draws a connection to prophecies about Jesus' garments being divided among the soldiers and the Psalm that foretells this event. This highlights the idea that the Gospel is for those who understand its value and are willing to fight for it. It encourages believers to demonstrate zeal and determination, like Elisha, who desired to inherit Elijah's mantle. By inheriting Jesus' garments, it refers to receiving His anointing and favor to evangelize the world.Moreover, the sermon compares the disciplined and determined Roman soldiers to the soldiers of Jesus' Kingdom. It stresses the importance of believers being disciplined, trained, and determined to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth under the anointing of the Holy Spirit. The mention of Paul's handkerchiefs in Acts further emphasizes the power and impact that can come from items associated with anointed individuals.Finally, the sermon highlights the significance of the soldiers not tearing Jesus' seamless coat, representing the inner vesture. This garment symbolizes the need to enter the presence of Jesus, the High Priest, who cleanses and ministers to the needs of our souls. It emphasizes the Christian life as a continuous cycle between going out into the world to make disciples and returning to Jesus for spiritual nourishment.The sermon concludes by urging believers, now in possession of Jesus' garments (anointing and priesthood), to march forward as Christian soldiers, conquering the world for Jesus. It encourages them to fulfill the Great Commission and utilize the power of Jesus to impact lives and bring others to Him.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/THE_MOUNTAINS_AND_VALLEYS_OF_LIFE.pdf </li><li> This sermon discusses the significance of mountains and valleys in the Christian journey and relates them to the life of Christ and biblical figures like Moses and Paul. It emphasizes the importance of experiencing both highs and lows in order to grow spiritually and trust in God. Living a comfortable and stable life leads to complacency and sin, while facing challenges and difficulties strengthens one's faith. The mountains represent moments of glory, vision, and spiritual growth, while the valleys symbolize the presence of Christ in the midst of struggles, sins, and hardships. God allows valleys in our lives to teach us, help us trust in Him, and grow in wisdom and reconciliation through the blood of Jesus. This sermon also highlights the need to stay connected to Christ and rely on Him in all circumstances. It encourages communication with God, keeping the focus on the heavenly promise, enduring with the power Christ provides, finding encouragement in the positive effects of valleys, and practicing patience. Ultimately, it emphasizes that Christ is the constant factor in our lives, the stable foundation on which we can rely. The passage concludes by expressing the belief that one day mountains and valleys will disappear, and all will be united in the new Jerusalem.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/THE_STILL_SMALL_VOICE.pdf</li><li>The sermon is based on the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19:11-13. Elijah's ministry was marked by spectacular demonstrations of God's power, such as calling fire from heaven and shutting up the heavens with his prayers. However, after a great victory on Mount Carmel, Elijah faced a crisis when Queen Jezebel threatened his life. He fled to Mount Horeb, seeking God's guidance and reassurance. God spoke to Elijah in a still, small voice, not in the wind, earthquake, or fire.The sermon highlights that Elijah's ministry relied too heavily on the spectacular displays of power, and God used the crisis to teach him an important lesson. While God may at times perform miracles, He desires humans to be persuaded by His Spirit and Word. The sermon draws parallels with the multitudes who followed Jesus for His miracles and provision of food but abandoned Him when He spoke of deeper spiritual truths.God was in His still, small voice, which brought restoration and edification to Elijah. The sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God in His Word and listening to His still, small voice. The voice of God can heal, restore, and empower, and we should rely on His Word to persuade souls rather than relying on spectacular acts.The sermon concludes by highlighting how God's voice asked probing questions about Elijah's own conduct and corrected and comforted him. It encourages listeners to separate themselves from the crowds, come to Jesus alone, and wait to hear His still, small voice. The sermon calls for a reliance on the voice of God and persuading others through His Word, rather than relying on the spectacular.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/RIDING_WITH_CHRIST_THE_CONQUEROR.pdf </li><li> The sermon focuses on Revelation 19:11-14, describing the glorious return of the Lord Jesus Christ riding on a white horse. The preacher emphasizes that the white horse signifies a war for peace and the speed of Jesus' return. The sermon highlights Jesus' faithfulness to His promises and His righteousness as He judges and makes war.The sermon also discusses the significance of Jesus' eyes burning with zeal and the many crowns upon His head, signifying His kingship and power. The sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance and baptism in Jesus' name for salvation and being guiltless of His blood.The sermon excites the listeners about the future prospect of riding white horses alongside the Lord Jesus during His ultimate conquest. The sermon encourages us to be part of the armies of the Lord and be more than conquerors through Him.The sermon concludes with a message of hope and joy, knowing the true story of the end of the world and the glorious future that awaits believers. All praises to the Lord Jesus for His victorious return and calls for rejoicing in anticipation of that day.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/WHAT_DID_JESUS_DO_FOR_YOU.pdf </li><li> The sermon centers around the story of the blind man healed by Jesus in John 9. Suffering and difficulties are opportunities for God to demonstrate His power and be glorified in our lives. Jesus, as God, has the ability to perform miraculous acts, and through this healing, He reveals His identity as the one true God.All humans are born spiritually blind due to sin, and it is only through Jesus that we can receive spiritual sight and salvation. The blind man's testimony of his healing serves as an example of how each individual must speak for themselves about what Jesus has done in their lives.The ultimate miracle is the salvation of the soul, and should not be swayed by the opinions of others but to firmly believe in Jesus as the Son of God. The blind man's unwavering faith and worship of Jesus demonstrate his understanding of Jesus' divine nature.In conclusion, the sermon encourages the audience to stand firm in their faith, knowing the identity, love, and compassion of Jesus. Each person should declare what Jesus has done for them, acknowledging Him as the one true God and Savior.</li></ul>

<ul><li> Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/THE_TITHE_OF_THE_LORD.pdf </li><li> The sermon delves into the principle of tithing, using Malachi 3:10-11 as its foundation. Tithe is defined as 10% of one's earnings or produce and Christians, after accepting Jesus and being saved, are commanded to tithe. Tithing is presented as a recognition of God's ownership and provision for our needs.The sermon draws from biblical examples, showing how Abraham and Jacob both offered tithes to God. Abraham's tithe was a response to God's blessing, while Jacob's vow was conditional upon God's provision and protection. It is noted that tithing is the only ordinance where believers are invited to test God, as seen in Malachi 3:10.The principle of giving to both God and the state is highlighted using Jesus' words in Mark 12:17. The preacher acknowledges the responsibilities toward the state but emphasizes that Christians must not neglect their duties to God, as demonstrated by tithing.The sermon explains that tithing showcases God's authority and His ability to bless and multiply. The preacher links the significance of the number 10 in tithing to the authority established after the tenth plague in Egypt and the Ten Commandments given at Mount Sinai. Through tithing, believers are called to establish God's authority in every aspect of their lives.The preacher concludes by addressing the attitude accompanying tithing, emphasizing that God loves a cheerful giver. The example of David's generous offerings is highlighted, showcasing a willingness to give sacrificially. The audience is encouraged to give their tithes and offerings with a joyful heart, following the example of David, who was considered a man after God's heart.</li></ul>