Sermons
Hope out of Darkness
In this sermon, Austin W. Duncan explores the enduring power of hope and light through the lens of Isaiah 9, reflecting on God's promises to a people walking in darkness. Drawing parallels between the first light on Cadillac Mountain and the transformative hope of Christ's arrival, he unpacks the names of Jesus—Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace—to illustrate how God steps into our darkest moments. With historical context, personal application, and an invitation to trust in God's unchanging faithfulness, this message calls us to embrace the light that breaks through all darkness, culminating in the celebration of communion as a reminder of Christ's ultimate sacrifice and victory.
Fired Up: From Anger to Action
In this sermon, Pastor Austin W. Duncan draws from Psalm 37 to address the impact of anger on our lives, from everyday frustrations like road rage to deeper grievances. Through the story of a road rage incident and biblical examples, listeners are challenged to see anger as a signal for growth rather than reaction. David’s guidance in Psalm 37 offers practical steps: trusting in God’s justice, choosing patience over immediate responses, and releasing control. The message concludes with a call to redirect anger into an opportunity for spiritual transformation, finding peace in God’s timing and surrendering our own impulses.
Never Give Up, Never Surrender
In this sermon, Pastor Austin W. Duncan draws from Philippians 3:12-16 to discuss the journey of faith and the importance of humility. Through stories like a valedictorian’s speech mishap and a violinist’s dedication, listeners are reminded that despite our achievements, we must keep pressing on in our spiritual growth. Paul’s acknowledgment of his ongoing need for Christ serves as a model, encouraging believers to release past successes and failures that hinder their pursuit of Jesus. The sermon concludes with a challenge to persist in faith, letting go of what weighs us down, and pressing toward knowing Christ more fully.
The 153 Fish Wake-Up Call
In this sermon, Pastor Austin W. Duncan reflects on the season of fall as a metaphor for transitions in life and faith. He uses the story of Michael Jordan's return to basketball to illustrate the theme of comebacks and encourages those who have drifted from their faith to return to Jesus. Drawing from John 21:1-14, Austin highlights how Jesus met the disciples where they were, providing for them and reminding them of their true purpose. The sermon concludes with a call to recommit to one’s faith and to support others in their spiritual journey, emphasizing that Jesus persistently seeks and invites us back into a deeper relationship with Him.
Joshua: A Faith that Conquers
In this sermon, Pastor Austin W. Duncan draws parallels between the biblical story of the fall of Jericho and personal life challenges, urging believers to trust in God's plan. By analyzing Joshua chapter 6, he highlights five key lessons: trusting God's unconventional plans, demonstrating faith through obedience, keeping God at the center, persevering in the face of delays, and opening the door to God's mercy through faith. It concludes with an invitation to commit to Jesus and a reminder of His ultimate sacrifice, leading to a call for communion.
Moses: From Contentment to Calling
In this sermon, Pastor Austin W. Duncan examines the idea of contentment, contrasting worldly self-help methods with the true contentment found in Christ. He critiques the notion of seeking satisfaction within ourselves, arguing that contentment rooted in God is what truly fulfills. Using Moses as an example, Austin explains that Moses found contentment before hearing God's call, showing that being content in God's plan is essential for spiritual clarity. The sermon encourages believers to remain active in their faith, resist the urge to complain, and follow Christ’s example of contentment in all circumstances. Austin concludes with a call to embrace contentment through a deep relationship with Jesus, reminding the congregation that true fulfillment comes from trusting in God's provision and purpose.
Enoch: A Walk That Ends in Eternity
In this sermon, Pastor Austin W. Duncan discusses the importance of walking with God, using the story of Enoch from Genesis as an example. He begins with a personal story to illustrate the need for direction in life, emphasizing that just as we rely on GPS to navigate, we need God to guide us through the complexities of the world. Pastor Duncan highlights how Enoch maintained a close, consistent walk with God in a corrupt society, emphasizing the importance of faith, obedience, and perseverance. He challenges the congregation to deepen their relationship with God, stressing that walking with God leads to true fulfillment and the ultimate reward of eternal life in His presence. The sermon concludes with a call to partake in communion, reflecting on Jesus' sacrifice, which makes this walk with God possible.
The Lord's Supper
In this sermon, Pastor Austin W. Duncan explores the meaning of communion through the lens of 1 Corinthians 11:17-34. He begins by discussing a famous image titled "Grace," using it as a metaphor for the private yet communal act of communion. Pastor Duncan explains the problems within the Corinthian church, where self-centeredness distorted the true purpose of the Lord's Supper. He then outlines the four key aspects of communion: remembrance, proclamation, examination, and consideration. By reflecting on Christ's sacrifice, proclaiming His return, examining our hearts, and considering others, believers can fully embrace the significance of communion. The sermon concludes with a call to approach the Lord's Table with reverence and unity, focusing on Jesus and the shared experience of His grace.
Apocalyptic Hope
Pastor Austin Duncan dives into Biblical prophecy, specifically focusing on the Gentile nations, the nation of Israel, and the Church as outlined in the Scriptures (referencing Daniel, Matthew, 1 &2 Thessalonians, and Revelation). In this sermon, he unpacks the imminent event of the Rapture, the prophetic revelation of the Antichrist, and the pivotal moments leading up to the second coming of Jesus Christ.
Triumph and Tribulation
Pastor Austin W. Duncan dives into the theological concept of 'The Great Tribulation' and the triumph of Jesus' return. Addressing one of the most profound yet neglected areas of Christian theology, he discusses the dual nature of tribulation—as a current experience and as a future event. By unpacking the signs, symbols, and teachings found in Scripture, we gain a clear and relevant understanding of end-times prophecy. This message not only provides a biblical foundation for the tribulation but also emphasizes the common thread that unites all believers: the eager expectation of Christ's imminent return, and living with an eternal perspective in the midst of our present realities.
Renewed Vision: Remember, Refocus, Restart
This is the heartbeat of the Church - action into serving others the other 167 hours of the week that you're not here, be that at work, or at home. As we strive to be more like Christ day after day, look at who He told us to invite to the table. Build relationships, invest your time into others that may not be able to pay you back, and allow for God to use you, your skills, your talents, your job, your resources - to grow the Kingdom, and to spread the Gospel to all nations.