Sermons from October 2025

Message: What is the Meaning of the Firstborn? Text: Deuteronomy 15:19-20 Introduction Our text for today speaks of sacrificing the firstborn of all animals. This idea of the firstborn is all over the Bible; what does it mean? The firstborn was part of the tithe Although the Bible implies God making a sacrifice to clothe Adam and Eve, the first detailed recording of a sacrifice was when Abel brought the firstborn of his flock. The firstborn of all animals was…

Message: Does the Bible Teach Slavery? Text: Deuteronomy 15:12-18 Introduction A common criticism of the Bible is that it teaches slavery. Is this true? Does the Bible teach chattel slavery? Chattel slavery is treating human beings like property (chattel means capital or cattle.) They work for no pay, are perpetually owned, bought, sold, etc. The Old Testament teaches that anyone participating in chattel slavery is guilty of death. This applied to all parts of the slave trade from beginning to…

Message: Economic Prosperity and the Gospel Text: Deuteronomy 15:4-5 Introduction In our text, there is a remarkable promise, no more poor people among the covenant people of God. This promise is fulfilled in Acts 4. Before we look at the text, we must view it through a Gospel lens. These things require born again people. These ideas can only work among a people who have Christian character and contentment. It is imperative that we begin with the Gospel, form healthy…

Message: Is Tithing Required of Christians? Text: Deuteronomy 14:22-29 Introduction We resume our study of Deuteronomy with tithing. This brings up the question of the relationship between the New Covenant and the Old Covenant. Most teaching on tithing is incorrect because it either comes from a place of legalism (earning God’s favor through works) or from a place of licentiousness (no command is binding on the Christian.) Is tithing required of Christians? Jesus on tithing Jesus taught that the entirety…