Sermons at E1BC http://fbceldon.net/ Eldon's 1st Baptist Church developer@fbceldon.net Eldon's 1st Baptist Church The pulpit ministry of Eldon's 1st Baptist Church is committed to faithfully teaching God's Word. We believe God's Word is the means by which He shapes and strengthens His people, and therefore, are committed to exploring God's Word and submitting to its authority so that lives are transformed and His glory increases. The pulpit ministry of Eldon's 1st Baptist Church is committed to faithfully teaching God's Word. We believe God's Word is the means by which He shapes and strengthens His people, and therefore, are committed to exploring God's Word and submitting to its authority so that lives are transformed and His glory increases. en © 2026 Eldon’s First Baptist Church no A Broken Heart Poured Out The Message of Hosea Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Early in his ministry, Israel (Jeroboam II) & Judah (Uzziah) were both strong, while the empires around them were not. Jeroboam, especially, expanded their territory and reigned over a period of great prosperity. But while prosperity increased, so did immorality and idolatry. Hosea’s message confronted the nation with its corruption, idolatry, immorality, and wickedness.</p><p><br></p> <p>Early in his ministry, Israel (Jeroboam II) & Judah (Uzziah) were both strong, while the empires around them were not. Jeroboam, especially, expanded their territory and reigned over a period of great prosperity. But while prosperity increased, so did immorality and idolatry. Hosea’s message confronted the nation with its corruption, idolatry, immorality, and wickedness.</p><p><br></p> Early in his ministry, Israel (Jeroboam II) & Judah (Uzziah) were both strong, while the empires around them were not. Jeroboam, especially, expanded their territory and reigned over a period of great prosperity. But while prosperity increased, so did immorality and idolatry. Hosea’s message confronted the nation with its corruption, idolatry, immorality, and wickedness.


]]> Sun, 08 Nov 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3269 1 11e1700eadfcfe6107b7ccc90c29dc59 no What Do You See? Dr Bill Gernenz <p>When Jesus saw the crowds, he was moved to compassion. What do you see when you encounter people?</p><p><br></p><p>Here, Matthew 9 confronts us with an urgent question, commands us to an earnest task, compels us with an eternal reality, and controls us with a holy love.</p> <p>When Jesus saw the crowds, he was moved to compassion. What do you see when you encounter people?</p><p><br></p><p>Here, Matthew 9 confronts us with an urgent question, commands us to an earnest task, compels us with an eternal reality, and controls us with a holy love.</p> When Jesus saw the crowds, he was moved to compassion. What do you see when you encounter people?


Here, Matthew 9 confronts us with an urgent question, commands us to an earnest task, compels us with an eternal reality, and controls us with a holy love.

]]> Sun, 01 Nov 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2868 2 9dd93b717039de054fbdbecc7e9506a4 no Every Member's Responsibility Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Christ is the head of the church; He rules over His people by His holy Word.</p><p><br></p><p>Scripture recognizes two church offices: that of elder (also called overseer or pastor/shepherd) and deacon. While we have explored these offices, their roles, and qualifications, there is still a very important role left to explore -- the church member. In a properly ordered church, the elders will be leading, and the deacons will be serving, but every member has a part to play. This morning we explore the job description of every church member.</p> <p>Christ is the head of the church; He rules over His people by His holy Word.</p><p><br></p><p>Scripture recognizes two church offices: that of elder (also called overseer or pastor/shepherd) and deacon. While we have explored these offices, their roles, and qualifications, there is still a very important role left to explore -- the church member. In a properly ordered church, the elders will be leading, and the deacons will be serving, but every member has a part to play. This morning we explore the job description of every church member.</p> Christ is the head of the church; He rules over His people by His holy Word.


Scripture recognizes two church offices: that of elder (also called overseer or pastor/shepherd) and deacon. While we have explored these offices, their roles, and qualifications, there is still a very important role left to explore -- the church member. In a properly ordered church, the elders will be leading, and the deacons will be serving, but every member has a part to play. This morning we explore the job description of every church member.

]]> Sun, 25 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2962 3 878b5440f0e2ab9c32a7ca647525ba5c no Deacons: Servants of the Church Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Who are deacons?</p><p><br></p><p>Scripture recognizes two offices in the local church: elders and deacons.</p><p><br></p><p>This week we transition from elders to deacons. We consider their job descriptions, differences, and callings. Both are gifts to the church; both are valuable sources of leadership and service, yet they each have distinct callings and serve distinct purposes. This morning, we will explore the unique and glorious design for deacons.</p> <p>Who are deacons?</p><p><br></p><p>Scripture recognizes two offices in the local church: elders and deacons.</p><p><br></p><p>This week we transition from elders to deacons. We consider their job descriptions, differences, and callings. Both are gifts to the church; both are valuable sources of leadership and service, yet they each have distinct callings and serve distinct purposes. This morning, we will explore the unique and glorious design for deacons.</p> Who are deacons?


Scripture recognizes two offices in the local church: elders and deacons.


This week we transition from elders to deacons. We consider their job descriptions, differences, and callings. Both are gifts to the church; both are valuable sources of leadership and service, yet they each have distinct callings and serve distinct purposes. This morning, we will explore the unique and glorious design for deacons.

]]> Sun, 18 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2533 4 289467fab239228b2a3f0abec0825316 no A Few Good Men: Leadership Qualifications Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Healthy churches provide a context for growing faith, strong disciples, and healthy families.</p><p>→ Healthy churches require qualified leaders and are protected by a proper structure.  </p><p><br></p><p>So... we are studying what biblical church leadership looks like.</p><p><br></p><p>For starters (to quote E. M. Bounds), "Men look for better methods, God is looking for better men." When Scripture lays out the qualifications for leaders in the church, it does not list a bunch of skills and abilities; instead, it presents a list of character qualities. </p><p><br></p><p>This morning, we dive into those qualities and discover not only what we should expect in our leaders, but why we should have these expectations. We need leaders who model the character we should all be striving for.</p> <p>Healthy churches provide a context for growing faith, strong disciples, and healthy families.</p><p>→ Healthy churches require qualified leaders and are protected by a proper structure.  </p><p><br></p><p>So... we are studying what biblical church leadership looks like.</p><p><br></p><p>For starters (to quote E. M. Bounds), "Men look for better methods, God is looking for better men." When Scripture lays out the qualifications for leaders in the church, it does not list a bunch of skills and abilities; instead, it presents a list of character qualities. </p><p><br></p><p>This morning, we dive into those qualities and discover not only what we should expect in our leaders, but why we should have these expectations. We need leaders who model the character we should all be striving for.</p> Healthy churches provide a context for growing faith, strong disciples, and healthy families.

→ Healthy churches require qualified leaders and are protected by a proper structure.  


So... we are studying what biblical church leadership looks like.


For starters (to quote E. M. Bounds), "Men look for better methods, God is looking for better men." When Scripture lays out the qualifications for leaders in the church, it does not list a bunch of skills and abilities; instead, it presents a list of character qualities.


This morning, we dive into those qualities and discover not only what we should expect in our leaders, but why we should have these expectations. We need leaders who model the character we should all be striving for.

]]> Sun, 11 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2804 5 7a9ce04963ead560d0c9b66e5c338a7e no Elders: Ministers of the Word & Shepherds of the Church Dr Bill Gernenz <p>As we continue our series through Biblical Church Leadership, we begin looking at the first of two offices that have been established by God for leading His church. God has appointed elders and deacons to lead and serve His church.</p><p><br></p><p>The first of these offices, elders, are called to administer God's Word and to shepherd His people. We will look at the qualifications of all leaders next week; this week we focus on one office, what it is, and the responsibilities they are given.</p> <p>As we continue our series through Biblical Church Leadership, we begin looking at the first of two offices that have been established by God for leading His church. God has appointed elders and deacons to lead and serve His church.</p><p><br></p><p>The first of these offices, elders, are called to administer God's Word and to shepherd His people. We will look at the qualifications of all leaders next week; this week we focus on one office, what it is, and the responsibilities they are given.</p> As we continue our series through Biblical Church Leadership, we begin looking at the first of two offices that have been established by God for leading His church. God has appointed elders and deacons to lead and serve His church.


The first of these offices, elders, are called to administer God's Word and to shepherd His people. We will look at the qualifications of all leaders next week; this week we focus on one office, what it is, and the responsibilities they are given.

]]> Sun, 04 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2634 6 859bf760d888a587c7b3bbc1f270bb07 no Is Authority Bad? Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Authority is largely an unpopular topic. People (especially in our Western American culture) have a deep-seated allergy to authority. Much of this is understandable, as we witness the misuse of authority time after time. The answer to bad authority, however, is not no authority, but good authority. We must recognize the practice of good authority as more than an unfortunate necessity to combat bad authority. Rather, authority is a part of God's original, good design. Authority is a gift of God given by which we must image His authority.</p><p><br></p><p>This Sunday, Pastor Bill explores how the Bible shapes authority as presented by Jonathan Leeman in his book, 'Using Authority Well.'</p> <p>Authority is largely an unpopular topic. People (especially in our Western American culture) have a deep-seated allergy to authority. Much of this is understandable, as we witness the misuse of authority time after time. The answer to bad authority, however, is not no authority, but good authority. We must recognize the practice of good authority as more than an unfortunate necessity to combat bad authority. Rather, authority is a part of God's original, good design. Authority is a gift of God given by which we must image His authority.</p><p><br></p><p>This Sunday, Pastor Bill explores how the Bible shapes authority as presented by Jonathan Leeman in his book, 'Using Authority Well.'</p> Authority is largely an unpopular topic. People (especially in our Western American culture) have a deep-seated allergy to authority. Much of this is understandable, as we witness the misuse of authority time after time. The answer to bad authority, however, is not no authority, but good authority. We must recognize the practice of good authority as more than an unfortunate necessity to combat bad authority. Rather, authority is a part of God's original, good design. Authority is a gift of God given by which we must image His authority.


This Sunday, Pastor Bill explores how the Bible shapes authority as presented by Jonathan Leeman in his book, 'Using Authority Well.'

]]> Sun, 27 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2644 7 eb4029bf05516257624a7f4332962583 no God's Design for the Home Dr Bill Gernenz <p>If Christ is Head over all things (as discussed last week per Ephesians 1), then everything is subject to His Word and (if it is to realize its potential and glory) must submit to His rule through His Word. That includes how we structure our churches, our lives, and our families.</p><p><br></p><p>This week we overview/introduce what it means to order our families according to God's Word.</p> <p>If Christ is Head over all things (as discussed last week per Ephesians 1), then everything is subject to His Word and (if it is to realize its potential and glory) must submit to His rule through His Word. That includes how we structure our churches, our lives, and our families.</p><p><br></p><p>This week we overview/introduce what it means to order our families according to God's Word.</p> If Christ is Head over all things (as discussed last week per Ephesians 1), then everything is subject to His Word and (if it is to realize its potential and glory) must submit to His rule through His Word. That includes how we structure our churches, our lives, and our families.


This week we overview/introduce what it means to order our families according to God's Word.

]]> Sun, 13 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3021 8 3fac35e983588157e8b926c7cea3d2cf no The Head of the Church Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Who in charge of the Church? The question presents the important issue of leadership and church structure. The answer requires thoughtfulness as we consider several aspects, but as we rotate the beauty of God's design for His church, His wisdom reflects off many facets as we witness the glory of His good design.</p> <p>Who in charge of the Church? The question presents the important issue of leadership and church structure. The answer requires thoughtfulness as we consider several aspects, but as we rotate the beauty of God's design for His church, His wisdom reflects off many facets as we witness the glory of His good design.</p> Who in charge of the Church? The question presents the important issue of leadership and church structure. The answer requires thoughtfulness as we consider several aspects, but as we rotate the beauty of God's design for His church, His wisdom reflects off many facets as we witness the glory of His good design.

]]> Sun, 06 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2743 9 73ccfbd61f068647157016202aa88987 no VIsion & Values of E1BC Dr Bill Gernenz <p>As we begin a new series focused on biblical church leadership, we begin this Sunday by reviewing the vision, mission, and values of E1BC.</p> <p>As we begin a new series focused on biblical church leadership, we begin this Sunday by reviewing the vision, mission, and values of E1BC.</p> As we begin a new series focused on biblical church leadership, we begin this Sunday by reviewing the vision, mission, and values of E1BC.

]]> Sun, 30 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2626 10 fe0fc1639714e5394717138a825f28d9 no A Pastor & His People Dr Bill Gernenz <p>This Sunday we conclude our study through the book of Hebrews by looking at the closing benediction and final exhortations.</p> <p>This Sunday we conclude our study through the book of Hebrews by looking at the closing benediction and final exhortations.</p> This Sunday we conclude our study through the book of Hebrews by looking at the closing benediction and final exhortations.

]]> Sun, 23 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2755 11 d7d24dc7e6fa1b0ec101cc1b6d6b3d21 no Strengthened by Grace Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 16 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2707 12 c24203379119971bf61568d02f53ea31 no Sunday Worship Gathering Haden Liska Sun, 02 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1958 13 9d3aef3d1785242ee6b44312ecd8252e no The Ethics of Kingdom Worship Dr Bill Gernenz <p>As we get closer to the conclusion of our Hebrews book study, we are reminded to "not refuse the one who is speaking." That is, let's hear, understand, and obey the message concerning Christ. If we do, we will inherit a kingdom that cannot be shaken. And as citizens of that kingdom, our worship of God shapes the way we live in community with one another, in our marriages, and in our possessions.</p> <p>As we get closer to the conclusion of our Hebrews book study, we are reminded to "not refuse the one who is speaking." That is, let's hear, understand, and obey the message concerning Christ. If we do, we will inherit a kingdom that cannot be shaken. And as citizens of that kingdom, our worship of God shapes the way we live in community with one another, in our marriages, and in our possessions.</p> As we get closer to the conclusion of our Hebrews book study, we are reminded to "not refuse the one who is speaking." That is, let's hear, understand, and obey the message concerning Christ. If we do, we will inherit a kingdom that cannot be shaken. And as citizens of that kingdom, our worship of God shapes the way we live in community with one another, in our marriages, and in our possessions.

]]> Sun, 26 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 5717 14 938cb057aedcbde5261a7c2b13242ae3 no Camp Reflections Haden & Taylor Liska Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2470 15 c27bdf0152ab90f4cfec65473cc4d21c no Summer Smash Sunday Celebration <p>After a week of running around, playing games, and exploring Jesus and His gospel, we invite our church and Summer Smash parents to hear about all that went on and celebrate all the Lord has done.</p> <p>After a week of running around, playing games, and exploring Jesus and His gospel, we invite our church and Summer Smash parents to hear about all that went on and celebrate all the Lord has done.</p> After a week of running around, playing games, and exploring Jesus and His gospel, we invite our church and Summer Smash parents to hear about all that went on and celebrate all the Lord has done.

]]> Sun, 12 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4371 16 31ee6462c47190e9e9233d2b1aa41b0f no Sunday Worship Gathering Sun, 28 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 5929 17 ffec92e709b9ef2aa13cb73cd0b2481f no Endurance for the Race Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 21 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2552 18 66f17d4a0b22b2b2db83dcfceaf730aa no Of Whom the World Was Not Worthy Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Exposition of Hebrews 11:17-40</p> <p>Exposition of Hebrews 11:17-40</p> Exposition of Hebrews 11:17-40

]]> Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3433 19 0600308e0772f490d914779852d92f16 no Knowing Jesus vs. Knowing About Jesus Dylan Davis Sun, 07 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2152 20 507b1ea0fcac68fa1d57ed317dcf0b2d no Sunday Worship Gathering Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Our Better & Abiding Possession</p><p>Hebrews 10:19-39</p> <p>Our Better & Abiding Possession</p><p>Hebrews 10:19-39</p> Our Better & Abiding Possession

Hebrews 10:19-39

]]> Sun, 24 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 6186 21 51e9a9794523c5cd67e579c2ca4ca701 no Sunday Worship Gathering Mitch Bennett Sun, 17 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1991 22 b2c69936d7fa2f70601cb862b0b4961b no Nothing But the Blood of Jesus Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 10 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2777 23 80406175e22edb9ca2c853759deb5df5 no Christ Our Hope in Life & Death Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 03 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2509 24 b7ecfcbd5fe61a7743e997242fa2dc7c no Sunday Worship Gathering Dr Bill Gernenz <p>The Holy Place Now Open</p><p>Hebrews 9:1-14</p> <p>The Holy Place Now Open</p><p>Hebrews 9:1-14</p> The Holy Place Now Open

Hebrews 9:1-14

]]> Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4839 25 57d6cb9bd1f0e634cdd30de0677f5183 no Jesus Paid it All Dr Bill Gernenz, Geof Lukwago Sun, 19 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 5476 26 19f5b7340393c74a0f78ded802036371 no Funny Name. Serious Hope. Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 12 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2621 27 2157dde0024c3df8d6670fff5a9eb8cc no Life In Him Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Romans 8:1 declares, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."</p><p><br></p><p>How can God forgive sinners and still be just?</p><p>How can sinners be made righteousness?</p><p>How do we know if we have the Spirit of Jesus in us?</p><p><br></p><p>This week we explore these issues in light of the cross and the empty tomb.</p> <p>Romans 8:1 declares, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."</p><p><br></p><p>How can God forgive sinners and still be just?</p><p>How can sinners be made righteousness?</p><p>How do we know if we have the Spirit of Jesus in us?</p><p><br></p><p>This week we explore these issues in light of the cross and the empty tomb.</p> Romans 8:1 declares, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."


How can God forgive sinners and still be just?

How can sinners be made righteousness?

How do we know if we have the Spirit of Jesus in us?


This week we explore these issues in light of the cross and the empty tomb.

]]> Sun, 05 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2265 28 4cd041fdda85d92cf3ed6fb33f93bfff no Better Things Dr Bill Gernenz <p>In the first half of this passage (5:11-6:20), our author says: “Grow up!” because there are those among you who are falling away, but those who will prove genuine must persevere in faith, pursue knowledge, and pour into others.</p><p><br></p><p>Our author began with shame and moved into warning, but now offers consolation as he seeks to instill confidence in his listeners.</p> <p>In the first half of this passage (5:11-6:20), our author says: “Grow up!” because there are those among you who are falling away, but those who will prove genuine must persevere in faith, pursue knowledge, and pour into others.</p><p><br></p><p>Our author began with shame and moved into warning, but now offers consolation as he seeks to instill confidence in his listeners.</p> In the first half of this passage (5:11-6:20), our author says: “Grow up!” because there are those among you who are falling away, but those who will prove genuine must persevere in faith, pursue knowledge, and pour into others.


Our author began with shame and moved into warning, but now offers consolation as he seeks to instill confidence in his listeners.

]]> Sun, 29 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2197 29 b86594d9bbe21f8efc752866f037e20d no Pressing on to Maturity Dr Bill Gernenz <p>This Sunday, we explored the first major warning passage of Hebrews. Beginning with a rebuke, we are given a sober warning. (Next week he moves to consolation in order to instill confidence.)</p><p><br></p><p>This week's challenge is to:</p><p>1. Resist Spiritual Lethargy/Laziness,</p><p>2. Press on to Maturity, and</p><p>3. Persevere in the Faith.</p> <p>This Sunday, we explored the first major warning passage of Hebrews. Beginning with a rebuke, we are given a sober warning. (Next week he moves to consolation in order to instill confidence.)</p><p><br></p><p>This week's challenge is to:</p><p>1. Resist Spiritual Lethargy/Laziness,</p><p>2. Press on to Maturity, and</p><p>3. Persevere in the Faith.</p> This Sunday, we explored the first major warning passage of Hebrews. Beginning with a rebuke, we are given a sober warning. (Next week he moves to consolation in order to instill confidence.)


This week's challenge is to:

1. Resist Spiritual Lethargy/Laziness,

2. Press on to Maturity, and

3. Persevere in the Faith.

]]> Sun, 22 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2809 30 292ceff1a7abb730a6e48617437fe7a9 no Grace to Help in Time of Need Dr Bill Gernenz <p><br></p> <p><br></p>

]]> Sun, 15 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2575 31 05188b8ef716ea2b24ecf6d2d67272f1 no Strive to Enter His Rest Dr Bill Gernenz <p>God’s Word exposes our hearts, revealing what we could never fix on our own. Thankfully, it also points us to the hope of the gospel. Christ has already done for us what we could never do for ourselves. Because of Jesus, the rest we strive for is not something we earn, but something we enter through faith in the finished work of Jesus.</p> <p>God’s Word exposes our hearts, revealing what we could never fix on our own. Thankfully, it also points us to the hope of the gospel. Christ has already done for us what we could never do for ourselves. Because of Jesus, the rest we strive for is not something we earn, but something we enter through faith in the finished work of Jesus.</p> God’s Word exposes our hearts, revealing what we could never fix on our own. Thankfully, it also points us to the hope of the gospel. Christ has already done for us what we could never do for ourselves. Because of Jesus, the rest we strive for is not something we earn, but something we enter through faith in the finished work of Jesus.

]]> Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2879 32 84bc0fb57a4eedd64955985fa9b56c56 no Guarding Against the Unbelieving Heart Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Jesus, in his earthly ministry, was looking for faith. Paul, when writing to a church, wanted to know about their faith. And the author of Hebrews writes to encourage us to persevere in faith. At the same time, we are warned against unbelief, or forsaking faith, which comes atgreat cost and consequence.</p><p><br></p><p>How can we pursue faithfulness? What resources do we have so that we might continue in the faith and hold fast to our confidence in Christ? This Sunday's message seeks to encourage us to hold fast with the help of Christ and the resources he provides.</p> <p>Jesus, in his earthly ministry, was looking for faith. Paul, when writing to a church, wanted to know about their faith. And the author of Hebrews writes to encourage us to persevere in faith. At the same time, we are warned against unbelief, or forsaking faith, which comes atgreat cost and consequence.</p><p><br></p><p>How can we pursue faithfulness? What resources do we have so that we might continue in the faith and hold fast to our confidence in Christ? This Sunday's message seeks to encourage us to hold fast with the help of Christ and the resources he provides.</p> Jesus, in his earthly ministry, was looking for faith. Paul, when writing to a church, wanted to know about their faith. And the author of Hebrews writes to encourage us to persevere in faith. At the same time, we are warned against unbelief, or forsaking faith, which comes atgreat cost and consequence.


How can we pursue faithfulness? What resources do we have so that we might continue in the faith and hold fast to our confidence in Christ? This Sunday's message seeks to encourage us to hold fast with the help of Christ and the resources he provides.

]]> Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2962 33 68ce84e4f7375a351069010fcaa1abdf no Consider Jesus Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Pastor Bill continued our Sure and Steady Anchor series...</p><p><br></p><p>Three simple but powerful reminders:</p><p>Consider Jesus as greater than Moses. He is not just a servant in the house — He is the Son over it.</p><p>Consider Jesus and His heavenly calling. Our identity and purpose are rooted in Him.</p><p>Consider Jesus… so that we endure. This Word was written to keep believers from drifting — to help them stay strong to the end.</p><p><br></p><p>Endurance begins with intentional, careful, regular, and thoroughly biblical consideration of Jesus.</p> <p>Pastor Bill continued our Sure and Steady Anchor series...</p><p><br></p><p>Three simple but powerful reminders:</p><p>Consider Jesus as greater than Moses. He is not just a servant in the house — He is the Son over it.</p><p>Consider Jesus and His heavenly calling. Our identity and purpose are rooted in Him.</p><p>Consider Jesus… so that we endure. This Word was written to keep believers from drifting — to help them stay strong to the end.</p><p><br></p><p>Endurance begins with intentional, careful, regular, and thoroughly biblical consideration of Jesus.</p> Pastor Bill continued our Sure and Steady Anchor series...


Three simple but powerful reminders:

Consider Jesus as greater than Moses. He is not just a servant in the house — He is the Son over it.

Consider Jesus and His heavenly calling. Our identity and purpose are rooted in Him.

Consider Jesus… so that we endure. This Word was written to keep believers from drifting — to help them stay strong to the end.


Endurance begins with intentional, careful, regular, and thoroughly biblical consideration of Jesus.

]]> Sun, 22 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2760 34 8facedf5f3d16561d4317d926478fb7c no The Death of Death in the Death of Christ Dr Bill Gernenz <p>The author of Hebrews issues a warning, "How shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?" (Hebrews 2:3) </p><p><br></p><p>How great is our salvation? This week, we explore the wonder of our salvation and the perfect character, wisdom, justice, and mercy of our God.</p> <p>The author of Hebrews issues a warning, "How shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?" (Hebrews 2:3) </p><p><br></p><p>How great is our salvation? This week, we explore the wonder of our salvation and the perfect character, wisdom, justice, and mercy of our God.</p> The author of Hebrews issues a warning, "How shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?" (Hebrews 2:3)


How great is our salvation? This week, we explore the wonder of our salvation and the perfect character, wisdom, justice, and mercy of our God.

]]> Sun, 15 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2179 35 3a1f7d0a98c085e6927a41f866c5ff48 no So Great a Salvation Dr Bill Gernenz <p>So many voices clamor for our attention… not only advertisements ["Buy this!", "Look at me!", "You need this!"], it's also talking heads ["Listen to me!", "I have the inside scoop!", "Breaking news"] On top of that, there's social media: platforms, influencers, followers, conspiracies, coverups… how are we to tell what is true and worthy of our attention?? How are we to make sense of all we hear and see and scroll?</p><p><br></p><p>The author of Hebrews warns us concerning misplaced attention and encourages us to "pay much closer attention" to the message of Christ, the message that saves, transforms, guards, and preserves us as his people.</p> <p>So many voices clamor for our attention… not only advertisements ["Buy this!", "Look at me!", "You need this!"], it's also talking heads ["Listen to me!", "I have the inside scoop!", "Breaking news"] On top of that, there's social media: platforms, influencers, followers, conspiracies, coverups… how are we to tell what is true and worthy of our attention?? How are we to make sense of all we hear and see and scroll?</p><p><br></p><p>The author of Hebrews warns us concerning misplaced attention and encourages us to "pay much closer attention" to the message of Christ, the message that saves, transforms, guards, and preserves us as his people.</p> So many voices clamor for our attention… not only advertisements ["Buy this!", "Look at me!", "You need this!"], it's also talking heads ["Listen to me!", "I have the inside scoop!", "Breaking news"] On top of that, there's social media: platforms, influencers, followers, conspiracies, coverups… how are we to tell what is true and worthy of our attention?? How are we to make sense of all we hear and see and scroll?


The author of Hebrews warns us concerning misplaced attention and encourages us to "pay much closer attention" to the message of Christ, the message that saves, transforms, guards, and preserves us as his people.

]]> Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2326 36 21f5cbe266fb45427f7a44bc20071a1a no Jesus: Greater Than Angels Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Our culture has a fascination with the supernatural, particularly angels. What do you know about them? What do you believe? Do you worship angels? Where does Christ rank in this discussion?</p><p><br></p><p>In all of our theology, we must be careful not go beyond what the Bible teaches. When we begin to speculate and even “fill in the gaps” to satisfy our curiosity, we develop unhelpful fascinations and unhealthy beliefs. The goal of this sermon, as we look at the balance of Hebrews 1, is to steer our intellectual energies back to the focus of Scripture. We want to give our attention to what God has revealed, and we want to pursue what the Lord has purposed to show us. Instead of imagining what we wish we knew, we want to immerse ourselves in what He wants us to know.</p> <p>Our culture has a fascination with the supernatural, particularly angels. What do you know about them? What do you believe? Do you worship angels? Where does Christ rank in this discussion?</p><p><br></p><p>In all of our theology, we must be careful not go beyond what the Bible teaches. When we begin to speculate and even “fill in the gaps” to satisfy our curiosity, we develop unhelpful fascinations and unhealthy beliefs. The goal of this sermon, as we look at the balance of Hebrews 1, is to steer our intellectual energies back to the focus of Scripture. We want to give our attention to what God has revealed, and we want to pursue what the Lord has purposed to show us. Instead of imagining what we wish we knew, we want to immerse ourselves in what He wants us to know.</p> Our culture has a fascination with the supernatural, particularly angels. What do you know about them? What do you believe? Do you worship angels? Where does Christ rank in this discussion?


In all of our theology, we must be careful not go beyond what the Bible teaches. When we begin to speculate and even “fill in the gaps” to satisfy our curiosity, we develop unhelpful fascinations and unhealthy beliefs. The goal of this sermon, as we look at the balance of Hebrews 1, is to steer our intellectual energies back to the focus of Scripture. We want to give our attention to what God has revealed, and we want to pursue what the Lord has purposed to show us. Instead of imagining what we wish we knew, we want to immerse ourselves in what He wants us to know.

]]> Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2368 37 36da5408617ea510ec086e48083f4c71 no The Superior Christ Hebrews 1:1-14 Dr Bill Gernenz <p>We begin our study of the book of Hebrews by looking at Jesus. In Jesus, our God is perfectly imaged and revealed. If God does not reveal Himself to us, we cannot know Him. But God wants to be known, so He has spoken clearly through the prophets of old and ultimately through His Son, the Lord Jesus.</p> <p>We begin our study of the book of Hebrews by looking at Jesus. In Jesus, our God is perfectly imaged and revealed. If God does not reveal Himself to us, we cannot know Him. But God wants to be known, so He has spoken clearly through the prophets of old and ultimately through His Son, the Lord Jesus.</p> We begin our study of the book of Hebrews by looking at Jesus. In Jesus, our God is perfectly imaged and revealed. If God does not reveal Himself to us, we cannot know Him. But God wants to be known, so He has spoken clearly through the prophets of old and ultimately through His Son, the Lord Jesus.

]]> Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2796 38 94285fa00306357a89fc395c77e9690c no Pursuing Christ in 2026 Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 11 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2470 39 ab221dc49f0ccf56a14f5c99b7b68f29 no The Vindication of God's Word Timothy Faber <p>God's Word is our steady foundation. Dr Timothy Faber, director of our Lake Ozark Baptist Association, reminded us that Scripture is God-breathed and trustworthy, teaching us, correcting us, and grounding us in truth.</p> <p>God's Word is our steady foundation. Dr Timothy Faber, director of our Lake Ozark Baptist Association, reminded us that Scripture is God-breathed and trustworthy, teaching us, correcting us, and grounding us in truth.</p> God's Word is our steady foundation. Dr Timothy Faber, director of our Lake Ozark Baptist Association, reminded us that Scripture is God-breathed and trustworthy, teaching us, correcting us, and grounding us in truth.

]]> Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4265 40 be3bdf09d564414ff6cb25827872533c no Jesus: Our Returning Savior Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 28 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4981 41 61181ba2105be7afd276f3ae603e4f96 no Jesus: Our Returning Savior Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 28 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2547 42 18895f39f6a18c297fa27358d1978334 no Christmas Eve 2025 Dr Bill Gernenz Wed, 24 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2307 43 cfc3baf1db35612336791aefff995522 no Jesus: Our Forever King Dr Bill Gernenz <p>This week's message invites us to reconsider what it truly means to have Jesus as our King. Drawing from 1 Chronicles 17, we encounter God's promise to David of an eternal throne—a promise that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The sermon walks us through a profound theology of kingship, beginning with Christ as King of Creation, the One through whom all things were made and by whom all things are sustained. We're reminded that Jesus didn't become king through appointment, election, or conquest—He is King because He created everything. This foundational truth challenges our modern obsession with autonomy. Just as Israel rejected God's perfect reign in favor of a human king, we too often reject Christ's authority in pursuit of self-rule. Whether it's through cultural movements that champion bodily autonomy over God's design, or through our personal insistence on making our own rules about sexuality, marriage, identity, or even death, we're repeating Israel's ancient mistake. The heart of the problem is the problem of the heart. No amount of education, legislation, or social reform can fix human sinfulness. Only surrender to King Jesus brings true freedom. This Advent season, we're called to bow our knees now in joyful submission rather than wait to be compelled by His glory when He returns. The wonder of Christmas is that the King put on flesh, lived as a peasant, and died as a criminal—all to reconcile rebels like us to the Father. That's a kingship worth celebrating and a King worth following.</p> <p>This week's message invites us to reconsider what it truly means to have Jesus as our King. Drawing from 1 Chronicles 17, we encounter God's promise to David of an eternal throne—a promise that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The sermon walks us through a profound theology of kingship, beginning with Christ as King of Creation, the One through whom all things were made and by whom all things are sustained. We're reminded that Jesus didn't become king through appointment, election, or conquest—He is King because He created everything. This foundational truth challenges our modern obsession with autonomy. Just as Israel rejected God's perfect reign in favor of a human king, we too often reject Christ's authority in pursuit of self-rule. Whether it's through cultural movements that champion bodily autonomy over God's design, or through our personal insistence on making our own rules about sexuality, marriage, identity, or even death, we're repeating Israel's ancient mistake. The heart of the problem is the problem of the heart. No amount of education, legislation, or social reform can fix human sinfulness. Only surrender to King Jesus brings true freedom. This Advent season, we're called to bow our knees now in joyful submission rather than wait to be compelled by His glory when He returns. The wonder of Christmas is that the King put on flesh, lived as a peasant, and died as a criminal—all to reconcile rebels like us to the Father. That's a kingship worth celebrating and a King worth following.</p> This week's message invites us to reconsider what it truly means to have Jesus as our King. Drawing from 1 Chronicles 17, we encounter God's promise to David of an eternal throne—a promise that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The sermon walks us through a profound theology of kingship, beginning with Christ as King of Creation, the One through whom all things were made and by whom all things are sustained. We're reminded that Jesus didn't become king through appointment, election, or conquest—He is King because He created everything. This foundational truth challenges our modern obsession with autonomy. Just as Israel rejected God's perfect reign in favor of a human king, we too often reject Christ's authority in pursuit of self-rule. Whether it's through cultural movements that champion bodily autonomy over God's design, or through our personal insistence on making our own rules about sexuality, marriage, identity, or even death, we're repeating Israel's ancient mistake. The heart of the problem is the problem of the heart. No amount of education, legislation, or social reform can fix human sinfulness. Only surrender to King Jesus brings true freedom. This Advent season, we're called to bow our knees now in joyful submission rather than wait to be compelled by His glory when He returns. The wonder of Christmas is that the King put on flesh, lived as a peasant, and died as a criminal—all to reconcile rebels like us to the Father. That's a kingship worth celebrating and a King worth following.

]]> Sun, 21 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2325 44 da1cba4af70ec608ba600dea5ff4898b no Jesus: Our Great High Priest Dr Bill Gernenz <p>Ever feel like no one understands your struggles? Jesus does. As our Great High Priest, He doesn't just sympathize with our weaknesses—He experienced every temptation we face, yet without sin.</p><p><br></p><p>The Old Testament priesthood pointed to something greater: a perfect High Priest who wouldn't fail. Jesus offered Himself as the once-for-all sacrifice and now sits at the Father's right hand, praying for YOU. He intercedes for your security, unity, joy, and holiness.</p><p><br></p><p>"If I could hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a million enemies. Yet distance makes no difference. He is praying for me." Because of Jesus, we can boldly approach God's throne of grace. What are you waiting for?</p><p><br></p><p>Join us as we continue our Advent series exploring Jesus as Prophet, Priest, and King. Coming in January: a new series through Hebrews!</p> <p>Ever feel like no one understands your struggles? Jesus does. As our Great High Priest, He doesn't just sympathize with our weaknesses—He experienced every temptation we face, yet without sin.</p><p><br></p><p>The Old Testament priesthood pointed to something greater: a perfect High Priest who wouldn't fail. Jesus offered Himself as the once-for-all sacrifice and now sits at the Father's right hand, praying for YOU. He intercedes for your security, unity, joy, and holiness.</p><p><br></p><p>"If I could hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a million enemies. Yet distance makes no difference. He is praying for me." Because of Jesus, we can boldly approach God's throne of grace. What are you waiting for?</p><p><br></p><p>Join us as we continue our Advent series exploring Jesus as Prophet, Priest, and King. Coming in January: a new series through Hebrews!</p> Ever feel like no one understands your struggles? Jesus does. As our Great High Priest, He doesn't just sympathize with our weaknesses—He experienced every temptation we face, yet without sin.


The Old Testament priesthood pointed to something greater: a perfect High Priest who wouldn't fail. Jesus offered Himself as the once-for-all sacrifice and now sits at the Father's right hand, praying for YOU. He intercedes for your security, unity, joy, and holiness.


"If I could hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a million enemies. Yet distance makes no difference. He is praying for me." Because of Jesus, we can boldly approach God's throne of grace. What are you waiting for?


Join us as we continue our Advent series exploring Jesus as Prophet, Priest, and King. Coming in January: a new series through Hebrews!

]]> Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2332 45 3f49f8d3df0c0d1a7726067c1d97e975 no Jesus: A Prophet Like Moses Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 07 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4995 46 2695eb37574d931ea91019f1448d7e17 no Spark: Rediscover the Glory of Christmas Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 30 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5148 47 bb11057ef7539ad8c20c87fa31540d5d no The Importance of Thankfulness Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 23 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2326 48 43a8689200f9998790ab989ada70413f no Who are the Peacemakers? Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 16 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5305 49 a320e3a9ac321f8a77ff66de2fd98a28 no God's Big Picture Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 09 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3178 50 5684524039791365cc2c107da8068481 no God's People Pray Together Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 02 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2727 51 cc40f8e00714c7f0ca4e7dfa9b40962d no God Makes His Appeal Through Us Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 26 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3122 52 62219332d24aaa6964129e2227588fe5 no The Importance of a Biblical Church Structure Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 19 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2934 53 185b7cef069d8550a4391dab1f349db4 no Disciples and Discipleship Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 12 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2319 54 76787b7ddfd314e23a05e97c5655d0b7 no Guarding One Another in the Faith Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 05 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4844 55 0b07b5d29dcd2f01ffd8a74b25b5ade9 no United Together in Christ for Christ Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 28 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2156 56 e5b5858e10f0c362ced93823d4dcc506 no Get in the Game! Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4628 57 d980f4e58acb0b98fd86ab53aa1ed829 no Being a Church Built On God's Word Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 14 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2594 58 cf291d8f5fe28da07a04b2e8627c3ebb no The Most Important Thing About Us Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 07 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2709 59 b1c698537143e9936678d97f11be7b13 no Being a Church Built on the Rock Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 31 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2670 60 8845ea63182556da333e0f82b651f5a1 no A Church for God's Glory Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 24 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2431 61 6b9ca522204be8b1d82c5a1501c9c10d no Kingdom Prayer in Real Life Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 17 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5084 62 4ac2606457023502ea0ffad2e77dbb56 no Desert Faith & Gospel Stories Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 10 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4831 63 a30ad590c5fe93964d3641484fb57add no How to Ask Your Father Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 03 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4741 64 06cd07a0410edd8cc9c0c84e163317fc no A Reminder from the Life of Manesseh Buddy Funk Sun, 27 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4315 65 1d718ea77241846d4fcdd8a5da4f0f07 no VBS Family Day Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 20 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4390 66 cf012cc21f47ea5cbbe403c0faed3380 no Battling Cynicism with the Shepherd Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 13 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5113 67 606b7693bbe1a45a44c25de03336ad78 no Entering Prayer as a Child Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 06 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4818 68 cd6565084b18523843704871302097f2 no God's Glory in the Ordinary Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 22 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4698 69 f338054cb66ac9cb31ba407efe06360c no Covenant Renewal & Gospel Hope Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 15 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5291 70 466fd00b8a47384ed2a8d561ceb0679d no June 8, 2025 Steve Grothoff Sun, 08 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4233 71 6d604b05ba1fc198696eab752eec3ca5 no June 1, 2025 Kenney Vawter Sun, 01 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4479 72 2905583c5b97bfdce7de2a3fa60f4856 no The Anatomy of Repentance Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 25 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5225 73 b0aa5c25c4168ca9ed74aa46f9f2c40a no The Joy & Hope of God's Word Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 18 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5162 74 87aa550e9999512309bbd012c99183e7 no Finishing Strong Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 11 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4983 75 b07ad1f8a78d5b1fd9d68eff4a837906 no Pursuing the Goal Together Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 04 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4307 76 91721aa8af3b59a391b91de2855f718d no Of Wealth & Righteousness Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 27 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5376 77 c110ce4dbc9d7f72d267e65e4af498d2 no The Temple Restored Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 20 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4811 78 f093881fe44a93dbdfa3d9a35fcadd4d no Opposition to Kingdom Building Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 13 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5260 79 3f0079c4c132837bf04493c76e8f5a4a no The Work of Kingdom Building Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 06 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3900 80 604fced4459de928498ab6d2eb0ef90f no Eldon First Baptist Church Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 30 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5265 81 1cb50a377e4739d2fb5ef74383e7f0ac no Eldon First Baptist Church Monte Shinkle Sun, 23 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3599 82 4ce34e9a830ff38b60f18f58a9a2dfcf no God's Good Hand Is On Those Who Seek Him Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 16 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4946 83 d7b60e47f6c307dde6e217759f68bbf6 no Pursuing Renewal Together Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 09 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4464 84 14790096318f90b98a13b5adaa504e36 no Our Great Hope Over Opposition Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 02 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4983 85 06692babc1a503f51c4eb9280e59e7b2 no The Priority of Worship Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 23 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5042 86 27e1fdb1d64dfe4ec1e6cf7c9f3474a9 no The Priority of Worship Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 16 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4923 87 be952395aabbd5ebdc516e16d7ee435d no History. His Story Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 09 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5070 88 152ba9dec452152b631153e32b8ec63f no Healing, Hope & the Year Ahead Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 02 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4831 89 d2f346efeab0774927f38efda3441f87 no Jesus Offers an Invitation Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 26 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2631 90 4e9257b79d214702361287552eb6fc44 no Anna Worships Before All Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 19 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4568 91 dc17d404f2f84b2b2a9d0a0a8e32d147 no Simeon Blesses Baby Jesus Dr Bill Gernenz Sun, 12 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 5077 92 2fbe6ae6b3f99f2cde5a0acdca5abc82 no