First Baptist Church of El Dorado - Sermons

Embark on a profound exploration of faith and purpose with us as we journey through the transformative post-resurrection period of Jesus' disciples. The curtain rises on the narrative with a look at the seismic shift in the disciples' lives, catapulted from witnessing a profound sacrifice to standing on the threshold of a mission that would forever alter the course of history. We recount the priceless legacy of Jesus' teachings and the awe-inspiring emergence of the early church, poised on the brink of the Holy Spirit's imminent arrival.As we unfold the tale of the ascension, you'll discover the depth of the disciples' questions about the restoration of Israel and be captivated by Jesus' redirecting their gaze to a broader horizon. The Great Commission is not just a historical mandate but a living, breathing call to action that resonates through the centuries. We discuss how this echoes in our modern lives, challenging us to carry the torch of witness from our own doorsteps to the far reaches of the earth, inspired by the early church's narrative in Acts.In the finale, we draw inspiration from the daring flight of Larry Walters as a metaphor for our spiritual calling. The message is clear: we are urged to rise above complacency, harness the power of the Holy Spirit, and boldly proclaim the Gospel with urgency. We close with a reflection on the disciples' unwavering obedience and their fervent anticipation of what lay ahead—inviting listeners to share in the joy and responsibility of bringing the message of salvation to a world eagerly waiting to hear it.

As dawn breaks over the Sea of Galilee, we're swept into an intimate rendezvous with forgiveness and renewal. This week's episode sails through the stirring narrative of John 21, where the resurrected Jesus encounters His disciples in a moment brimming with hope and the promise of new beginnings. With every net cast into the uncertain waters of their future, the disciples are met with a miraculous catch, a heartening meal shared with Christ, and the gentle whisper of guidance as they navigate life's transitions.The shore of forgiveness beckons as we witness a profound exchange between Peter and Jesus, a dance of redemption that weaves through the echoes of past denials. The aroma of fish and bread mingles with the salty sea air, crafting a tableau of sustenance and care. Through this tender dialogue, we unwrap the layers of Peter's reconciliation and the charge to shepherd the flock, discovering along the way the wondrous potential for leadership and transformation that lies within each of us.Finally, with our feet nestled in the warm sands of commitment, we answer the resounding call to "Follow me." This episode extends a heartfelt invitation to embark on a path of unwavering discipleship, sharing personal reflections on realigning our focus and trusting in divine guidance. Whether you're navigating rough seas or seeking the lighthouse of salvation, our conversation promises a community of support as we journey together in pursuit of the footsteps of Jesus. Join us, and let's venture forth in faith, side by side.

Embark on a profound journey of faith as we uncover the deep roots of resurrection hope that have sustained believers for two millennia. We weave the ancient wisdom of 1 Corinthians 15 with the remarkable longevity of Maria Marrera, the world's oldest person as of January 2023, to bring you a message of everlasting life and the futility of a faith without the resurrection. The historical credibility of the Gospel of Luke stands as a testament to this miraculous event, prompting both believers and skeptics to explore its truth. Through heartfelt prayer and introspection, we extend an invitation to all, regardless of where you stand in your faith, to find solace and strength in the promise of Jesus' victory over death.As we celebrate Easter, we delve into the concrete evidences for the resurrection that affirm our Christian hope. We dissect four pivotal 'E's—Execution, Empty tomb, Eyewitnesses, and Early accounts—to reinforce the historical reality of Christ's rising, a cornerstone of our faith that offers peace and purpose beyond material desires. C.S. Lewis's transformative journey from atheism to belief sheds light on the immense significance of accepting this truth. We close with a powerful prayer, inviting you to experience the transformative power of faith and the anticipation of our own resurrection, while offering our support as you navigate the path to salvation and a life changed through surrender to Jesus.

Remember the sheer tenacity of an underdog sports team?  This episode is a heartfelt exploration of 1 Timothy chapter 4 and Galatians chapter 5, inviting you to strengthen your spiritual muscles and discern true teachings. Take a walk down memory lane, back to the days of high school sports, as we discuss the enduring legacy of perseverance. Hear how my experiences on the track and field parallel the commitments we make in our walk with Jesus. We'll talk about how to apply tenacity to our spiritual exercises—a hundred-year plan for eternity that promises far greater rewards than any earthly accolade.We wrap up this episode with an inspiring account of Glenn Cunningham's miraculous comeback, a testament to the resilience required for not just physical, but spiritual growth. As we close in prayer, I extend an invitation for salvation and guidance, offering a beacon for those navigating the tumultuous waters of doubt and despair. This conversation aims to uplift and guide you, whether you're seeking encouragement, a fresh perspective on spiritual discipline, or curious about the transformative love of Christ. Let's journey together toward a faith that not only endures but flourishes.

Discover the transformative power that echoes through time from an ancient narrative to modern-day lives, as we explore the profound impact of Jesus Christ's encounter with a demon-possessed man. Our episode draws inspiration from the biblical account in Mark chapter 5, juxtaposed with real-world applications, such as the empowering Lead Defend event for today's youth and the historical innovation of the microwave by Percy Spencer. We take you on a spiritual and intellectual exploration, examining the deep changes that Jesus brings, much like those revolutionary waves that ripple from Spencer's accidental discovery, reshaping how we perceive and engage with the world around us.As we recount the biblical story of liberation from darkness, we also delve into the paradoxical reaction of the townspeople, whose fear led them to turn away the very source of miraculous transformation. This narrative serves as a mirror, reflecting our own possible hesitance to accept change and divine power. Through this episode, we extend an earnest invitation to all who seek renewal and a purpose-driven life, urging believers to carry forth the message of hope and salvation. Join us in unraveling the layers of this timeless tale and discover how embracing the Gospel can be the catalyst for a personal revolution, offering redemption and a redefined future.

Have you ever considered that the very things you possess, no matter how meager, could be the key to unlocking a life lived for the extraordinary purpose of glorifying God? Join me for an enriching dialogue with Ryan Scantling, leader of BCM at the University of Arkansas,as he takes a deep dive into the iconic battle between David and Goliath, unraveling how David's humble arsenal—a staff, slingshot, and stones—was all it took to secure victory when leveraged for the God's glory. We dissect this narrative, encouraging you to reflect on how your unique talents and resources can serve a divine calling within your own life and community.Moving beyond the tangible, we navigate the often-overlooked battleground of the heart, where pride can be the adversary that prevents us from stepping into the roles carved out for us by God. Ryan shares insights on the notion that the ultimate 'why' of our existence is to honor God, challenging the misplaced values of abundance and conformity. As we explore the story of David, we find clarity in the truth that it's not the size of our armory but the strength of our faith and the willingness to use what we've been given that leads to true greatness.The episode culminates with a heartfelt invitation, extending beyond mere discussion to a call for action. We delve into the transformative act of baptism and the importance of church membership. It's more than a message; it's a beckoning for you to step out in faith, whether you're taking the first steps toward a relationship with Jesus or deepening your involvement in ministry. Let this be the moment you decide to leverage your life for something far greater than yourself—His glory.

Join us for this week’s sermon podcast! Together, we will traverse the historic paths of Uzziah's reign, uncovering the layers of a king's journey from righteousness to ruin. His tale is a cautionary one, where the triumphs and pitfalls of leadership serve as a mirror to our own lives, reminding us of the fragile balance between pride and humility.Our Speaker, Dr. Rex Horne begins by painting a vivid picture of Uzziah's early reign, describing the king's remarkable successes in war, fame, and prosperity. With engaging storytelling, we learn about Uzziah's devotion to seeking the Lord and the positive impact on his kingdom.We then turn to the downfall of King Uzziah from a position of success and humility to pride and disobedience. Initially blessed and helped by God, Uzziah's strength and success led to pride. The turning point is highlighted when he decides to burn incense in the temple, a role reserved for priests. The priest Azariah, accompanied by 80 others, confronts Uzziah, stating that he has trespassed against God and will receive no honor. Uzziah’s story emphasizes the importance of humility and obedience, even for powerful leaders, and highlights the significance of those who, though unnamed and not worldly successful, have power with God. We are left with a powerful call to introspection, urging us to consider our journey, learn from Uzziah's experiences, and embrace the opportunity for spiritual growthTune in to this thought-provoking episode filled with compelling narratives, insightful reflections, and impactful messages. Discover the relevance of Uzziah's story in your life, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual renewal. 

As the secular tide rises, guest preacher Brad Gaunt, Associate Pastor at Dixie Baptist Church in Hattiesburg, MS, offers a beacon of hope for navigating the choppy waters of faith in contemporary culture. With a finger on the pulse of today's generational beliefs, he sheds light on the dwindling adherence to a biblical Christian worldview among Gen Z and millennials. Our discussion traverses the challenges young believers face in secular environments like schools, emphasizing the crucial role of adapting without compromising the core of our faith. Apostle Paul's encounter with idolatry in Athens is more than a biblical account; it's a strategic manual for modern evangelism. Brad breaks down Paul's method of blending righteous indignation with compassionate outreach, creating a blueprint for engaging in effective dialogue across religious and cultural divides. We examine Paul's versatile approach as he traverses from synagogues to marketplaces, drawing parallels to the avenues of communication in today's world, such as college campuses. This episode will leave you contemplating the dynamic ways of initiating conversations and presenting reasoned arguments for faith, following Paul's exemplary model.Wrapping up, we delve into the practical outworkings of being faithful ambassadors for Christ in everyday life. Recognizing the need for Christians to be fully aware of the cultural context they inhabit, we discuss how to identify and seize opportunities for meaningful faith conversations. We also uplift a collective prayer for the church's guidance in the search for a new pastor who has a deep-rooted commitment to God's word. Our hearts are also with those seeking connection and understanding in a world that often feels devoid of both. This episode is a clarion call for action, driving Christians to engage their communities with the gospel's transformative power.

Have you ever faced a crossroads, the kind where every direction promises adventure yet demands faith? We were blessed to have Warren Gasaway from the Arkansas Baptist State Convention share his personal crossroads story, one that not only tested his faith but also strengthened it immeasurably. Journey with us as Warren reflects on the transition of his children into adulthood, his deep ties to the Eldorado community, and how his family's commitment to Christ forms the backbone of their collective journey.Warren's narrative unfurled into a broader discourse on the dynamism of faith, echoing the wisdom of Deuteronomy, encouraging us to step out of our comfort zones and into the divine path set before us. His tale of courage and obedience, mirrored by the Israelites' directive to "turn and take your journey," reminds us that we're not just growing our own faith; we're on a mission to manifest God's love to the world. And while safety often seems wrapped up in what's familiar, Warren's experiences assure us that the truest security is found in the center of God's will.Ending on a powerful note, this episode draws parallels from the iconic roar of "The Lion King's" Mufasa to the strength and support we find in faith during our most challenging moments. For those who are newcomers to the faith or seasoned believers, there's an invitation to embark on a life-changing adventure, to trust in the promises of God, and to share the hope and life we have in Christ. Close your eyes, listen in, and let's celebrate the spiritual journey that awaits, complete with the promise of His return.

When Landin Norman stepped into the role of lead discipleship pastor, he brought with him a powerful narrative of transformation—a journey from anxiety-riddled youth to a bastion of faith within the First Baptist Church. Our latest podcast episode welcomes Landin as he shares the poignant challenges he faced during a pastoral transition and the personal evolution that guided him to where he stands today. His candid discussion sets the stage for a deeper examination of pride, its dangers, and the pursuit of humility in our spiritual lives.We then traverse the ancient times of Hezekiah's reign, as chronicled in 2 Kings 19 and 20, to unravel the complexities of pride. From the audacious defiance of Assyrian king Sennacherib to the more subtle pitfalls of Hezekiah's later years, our conversation reveals the dual nature of pride and the transformative power of humility. The episode is rich with insights, drawing parallels to our present-day struggles and illuminating the path to finding our true worth in God rather than worldly achievements or possessions.Concluding on a reflective note, we address the manifestations of pride and how to combat them through service and a heart aligned with God. As we anticipate the selection of a new lead pastor, the episode emphasizes the vital role of unity and collective love within the church. Through Landin’s prayer, we extend our gratitude for the church's enduring impact and seek guidance to foster a community that exudes love and unwavering dedication to servitude. Join us for an episode that not only delves into the human heart but also offers a vision for a more humble and connected spiritual journey.

Discover the profound ways in which God's presence can transform your daily life, as Brandon Trostle joins us to share his insights on the sacred communion between the divine and His followers. With his rich background in Christian studies and youth ministry, Brandon brings to light the confidence and sincerity needed to approach God, as well as the immense power found in the collective worship experience. Our discussion revolves around Hebrews 10:19-25, guiding us through the spiritual practices that fortify our individual faith and how they are amplified in communion with other believers. Embark on a journey to redefine your understanding of the Holy Spirit's role as we examine the notion of our bodies being temples where God's presence resides. As we contrast the experiences of contemporary believers with those of ancient times, we uncover the importance of expectancy and engagement with the Holy Spirit in our daily practices.  Join us for a heartfelt exploration into nurturing a responsive and dynamic faith, where each day is a chance to deepen your relationship with God.

As the glow sticks in our hands remained uncracked, the promise of light lingered – a powerful metaphor for the spiritual illumination we're called to in the world. Inspired by the Sermon on the Mount, we embarked on a journey through personal anecdotes, the wisdom of Jesus, and the practical outworking of faith in our daily lives. From the heady intellectual understanding to the heartfelt emotional connection, right down to the hands-on application, we shared stories and insights about becoming the salt of the earth and the light of the world. No matter the chaos of life's distractions or the pull of responsibilities, we urged each other to cling to Christ and let our faith shine.As the year winds to a close, we face a crossroads of spiritual renewal and response to God's call. The water's ripple in a bowl served as a stark reminder of our potential impact, inviting us to embody our faith and make tangible changes in our lives. Whether it's a reaffirmation of commitment, seeking a church home, or understanding Jesus for the first time, the call is clear. Join us in prayer as we seek guidance and dedication for the year ahead, prepared to respond boldly to the divine call echoing in our hearts.

As the Advent season unfolds, Jamie Naramore brings warmth to First Baptist with tales of the pure-hearted wonder children possess, especially at Christmastime. Their perspectives, honest and unfiltered, remind us of the profound beauty found in nurturing young minds with stories from the Bible. In an intimate conversation, we traverse the highs and lows of parenting  during the bustling holiday period, reflecting on the anticipation of Jesus's return and how the inspiring mission work of figures like Lottie Moon interweaves with the global celebration of Christmas.With a heart for service, I take you on a journey through my calling to minister in New York City's melting pot, serving particularly within the Muslim community. The cultural richness of traditions like Guatemalan Christmas adds vibrant threads to the tapestry of our discussion. The narrative of Acts 17 serves as an anchor, revealing how the birth of Christ catalyzed the spread of the gospel, a beacon of God's unceasing presence and benevolence across generations and nations.As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, join us in contemplating the transformative power of sharing the gospel. Stirring accounts of faith in action—from a former Bible study persecutor now seeking truth to outreach among Hindu roommates—illustrate the profound effect of living out one's faith. In this season of expectancy, we invite you to take inspiration from these narratives to convey the love of God to those around you, embracing the potential for the gospel to change lives and affirm our role in God's extraordinary plan for humanity.

Can you say with certainty that the person preaching from the pulpit is truly speaking for the Lord? As our church embarks on a journey to find a new pastor, we sat down with Dr. Jeremy Greer to examine the authenticity of a God's spokesperson. Dr. Greer, armed with humorous anecdotes and profound wisdom, guided us through the process of discerning truth in prophetic messages. He stressed the importance of discernment, especially in our current times of uncertainty.We also ventured into the territory of prophets, their roles, and how to identify true prophets from false ones. Using the story of prophet Micah as an example, we highlight what to look for in a person who claims to speak for the Lord. Does he or she promote justice, righteousness and courageously speak the unpopular truth? Is his or her message advancing God's kingdom or their own? These are tough questions that we tackle head-on in our quest for truth.Our journey does not end there. Finding a pastor who can genuinely speak for the Lord requires prayer, discernment, and the courage to face unpopularity and adversity. As we wrap up our discussion with Dr. Greer, we leave you with a hopeful prayer that God leads us to the right person for our church. Listen in and let's walk this path of faith together, seeking a pastor who does not just speak, but one who genuinely speaks for the Lord.

Ever pondered the significance of Jesus' ascension and how it influences believers' lives? Dr. Rex Horn unravels this profound event from the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. He expounds on the disciples' transformation from deserters to devout worshipers, revealing how this miraculous event completes the narrative of Jesus’ life on Earth. Dr. Horn guides us to appreciate the ascension not merely as an end, but as the dawn of a new spiritual era with the Holy Spirit dwelling within us.As we traverse our faith journey, understanding Jesus' ascension takes on a deeper meaning. It fosters a personal connection with Jesus and shapes our perspectives and actions. Embracing the reality of Jesus living within us is a powerful message that underscores his love for us.The episode concludes with an exploration of the life and preaching of Joseph Parker, a great orator and preacher, and echoes the profound impact of Jesus' ascension on his disciples. Reflecting on Parker's dedication to his faith gives us a glimpse into his unwavering assurance of salvation. This episode is an inspiring journey into understanding Jesus' ascension, filled with insights that will induce joy and confidence in your faith. Join us to delve deeper into this transformative power and let it shape your spiritual journey.

Ever felt your faith dwindling during challenging times? What's the secret to keeping it aflame? Join us for an enriching conversation with Dr. Rex Horn as we contemplate the potency of our faith, the impact of the church's legacy, and the crucial role of divine love. Dr. Horn reverberates the call to fan the flame of our spiritual gifts, an urgent message in the face of heretical teachings.We then pivot to explore fear and love within sacred church spaces and our daily routine. Through thoughtful reflection on cherished church moments, you'll remember the eternal significance of these spaces and Jesus' ever-present persona.  So, prepare to reignite your faith, live with power, love, and a sound mind, and join us in a heartfelt prayer for the church's journey and victories ahead.

Ever struggled with navigating through a tough season, feeling lost, and wishing you had someone to guide you? Struggling alone can be challenging and that's where  Tim Noel, the director of church partnerships with the Arkansas Baptist Children and Family Ministries, steps in. Joining him are two dedicated counselors from our Living Well ministry who bring an array of insights on the power of Christian counseling. This episode is a gentle reminder of how scripture and clinical theories can harmonize to help us understand our emotions better and glorify God. It’s a deep dive into the importance of seeking professional Christian counseling and walking through the tough times hand-in-hand with someone who is there to support you.Have you ever wondered how David, faced with tremendous opposition, kept his faith unshaken? In his message, Tim walks us through the depths of David's psalm of lament in Psalms 3, illuminating his unwavering faith amidst adversity. We explore how his trust in God's faithfulness and his unyielding devotion serves as an inspiration for all of us. As we delve into the transformative power of prayer during times of hardship, we wrap up with a prayer of hope. We invite you to join us, especially if you're feeling discouraged or troubled, to find strength, encouragement, and renewed faith.

As we navigate through the wilderness phase of our lives, our faith and patience are tested but also strengthened.  Our journey of faith and trust in God's plan is as real and transformative as the biblical story of Moses leading the Israelites to the promised land.The crux of our exploration, however, resides in the biblical narrative of Exodus. Moses' people, growing impatient with his prolonged stay on Mount Sinai, turn away from God's plan and build a golden calf to worship. God’s wrath is ignited, but his boundless love for his people prevents Him from destroying them. This chapter of Exodus serves as a mirror, reflecting our own impatience and tendencies to overlook God's grand plan during periods of transition. While our search for a new pastor continues, we're reminded that God's presence is essential.Finally, we reflect on the most profound message of the Bible - the story of sin, redemption, and God's unconditional love. We marvel at the promise of Revelation 22:4, where we find hope in the prospect of seeing God face to face. As we contemplate Jesus' sacrifice and the presence of the Holy Spirit, we realize that living in God's presence is the ultimate gift. We end with a prayer, urging us to repent, turn to Jesus for salvation, and seek the glory of His presence in our life.

In this week's message, Pastor Jonathan says farewell to the congregation, as he takes us through the metaphorical seasons of life and how these shifts echo God's grand plan. Drawing from his cherished memories at the First Baptist Church of El Dorado, he explores the unyielding power of community and our shared purpose in Christ. It's a heartfelt reflection on the past and an inspiring look into the future.As our church steps into the uncertain interim season, we are encouraged to see this not as an interruption, but as an invitation to experience God's presence and follow His voice. Drawing parallels from the journey of the Israelites, we will delve deeper into the spiritual essence of these transitions. Our conversation will not be complete without discussing the power of love, the sacredness of goodbyes, the strength in prayer, and the bonds forged through Life Groups and Deaconal Vows. Inspired by Philippians 1:9-11, let's learn to embrace the fruit of our salvation and be filled with righteous character. So, join me on this transformative journey, filled with trust in God's plan, love, and understanding - a journey that promises to enrich your faith and perspective.

What if the secret to greatness isn't what you think it is and it's something completely different? And how can we achieve this unique brand of greatness? In our latest discussion, we peel back the layers of iconic statements and dig deep into the essence of true greatness. Taking our cue from  Jesus’ teachings on greatness, underpinning his call for us to serve others and welcome children in his name. We detail a riveting account of Jesus and his disciples in Capernaum and the pivotal discussion they had about greatness. But it's not just about understanding greatness, it's about putting it into action too. In that spirit, we shine a spotlight on the unyielding dedication of Chris and Fernando, who have committed themselves to serving the church in their new roles as Deacons. As they take on these responsibilities, we implore God's strength and blessings upon them and discuss the crucial role of deacons in the church. We discuss how serving the weak and vulnerable not only within the church but also in the community is a manifestation of the greatness that Jesus espouses. As you join us in this enlightening conversation, prepare to be challenged, inspired, and fired up to take the next step on your spiritual journey.