Guiding Question: What does it truly mean to receive the gift of Jesus at Christmas—and how do we know if we’ve really received it?

Summary

Description: Robert Lewis offers a rich and heartfelt Christmas message centered on the gift of Jesus Christ. Drawing from the imagery and wonder of the season, he calls listeners beyond the festive emotions to the deeper spiritual reality of Christmas: the incarnation as God's indescribable gift. He contrasts true belief—deep, active, and transformational—with passive or flawed belief that merely observes but never receives. Using John 3:16 and stories of personal restoration, freedom, and surprise, he explores how receiving this gift leads to real-life change. The message invites both seekers and believers to reflect honestly on the nature of their belief and respond to God’s ultimate question: "Do you want me?"

Outline:

1. The Spirit of Christmas

   • Holiday nostalgia and spiritual sensitivity.

   • Christmas is more than feelings—it’s about the gift of Jesus.

2. Jesus: The Indescribable Gift

   • Biblical titles and descriptions of Jesus as a “gift.”

   • 2 Corinthians 9:15; Romans 6:23; John 4:10.

3. The Woman at the Well

   • Jesus’ compassion and invitation to a broken Samaritan woman.

   • “If you knew the gift of God…”

4. God’s Question to Us

   • Christmas answers: Is God there? Does He care?

   • But the real question is: Do you want the gift?

5. What Does It Take to Receive the Gift?

   • John 3:16 and the call to “believe.”

   • The distinction between real belief and flawed, passive belief.

6. Real Belief vs. Flawed Belief

   • Real belief leads to action, life change, and deep connection with Christ.

   • Flawed belief is passive, distant, and untransforming.

7. What the Gift Delivers

   • Forgiveness (Colossians 2:13)

   • Freedom (John 8:32)

   • Restoration (Psalm 23; Joel 2:25; Jeremiah 30:17; Malachi 4:6)

   • Surprise (1 Corinthians 2:9)

   • Reunion and eternal life (1 Thessalonians 4:17)

8. Stories of Transformation

   • Real-life testimonies of people who embraced the gift and experienced freedom, restoration, and hope—even from prison.

9. Final Invitation

   • A call to receive the gift through genuine, life-altering belief.

Key Takeaways

• Jesus is not just the reason for the season; He is the gift that changes everything.

• True belief is not passive acknowledgment but an active, surrendered trust that transforms life.

• Many claim belief but have not received the life promised in John 3:16—because their belief lacks real buy-in.

• The gift of Jesus delivers real change: forgiveness, freedom, healing, purpose, and eternal hope.

• Christmas invites us to answer God's question: “Do you want me?”

• When we truly believe, Jesus surprises us—again and again—with grace, power, and presence.

Scriptural References

• 2 Corinthians 9:15 – “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.”

• Romans 6:23 – “The free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

• John 4:10 – “If you knew the gift of God…”

• John 3:16 – Belief as the key to eternal life.

• Colossians 2:13 – Forgiveness of all transgressions.

• John 8:32 – The truth will set you free.

• Psalm 23 – “He restores my soul.”

• Joel 2:25 – “I will restore the years the locusts have eaten.”

• Jeremiah 30:17 – “I will restore you to health.”

• Malachi 4:6 – Restoring hearts of fathers to children.

• 1 Corinthians 2:9 – “What God has prepared for those who love Him.”

• 1 Thessalonians 4:17 – “So shall we always be with the Lord.”

Recorded 12/19/04

Guiding Question: How do we experience real turnaround in life when we've lost our way or feel stuck?

Summary

Description: Robert Lewis uses a powerful blend of drama, storytelling, and scripture to explore the idea of personal and spiritual turnarounds. Focusing on Jonah chapter 3, he draws a vivid parallel between the reluctant prophet Jonah and modern believers who resist sharing their faith, even when surrounded by people in desperate need. He emphasizes that turnarounds—whether small or life-altering—begin when we respond to God’s persistent voice, despite our pain or reluctance. The message is clear: no matter how far off course we get, God is still pursuing us and ready to use us.

Outline:

1. Opening Drama and Real-Life Parallels

   • A birthday moment reveals Lenny’s personal struggles and longings.

   • A kind word shifts his perspective—a small turnaround.

2. Jonah’s Second Chance

   • God repeats His original command: "Arise, go to Nineveh."

   • Jonah obeys, albeit reluctantly, beginning his turnaround.

3. Context for Turnaround

   • Both Jonah and Nineveh are in pain—one from resistance, the other from cultural collapse.

   • Each faces hard realities: Jonah must obey; Nineveh must repent.

4. God’s Relentless Pursuit

   • God doesn’t give up on Jonah or Nineveh.

   • He offers second chances to both.

5. The Power of Reluctant Obedience

   • Jonah delivers a message with minimal passion.

   • Still, the people of Nineveh respond with dramatic repentance and transformation.

6. Jonah and Nineveh as Types

   • Jonah represents the reluctant believer or church—hesitant to share.

   • Nineveh represents responsive unbelievers—waiting for someone to speak up.

7. Modern Application

   • Personal stories of faith shared reluctantly, yet leading to radical transformation.

   • The church’s mission to publicly proclaim hope and truth, despite cultural pressure toward privatized belief.

8. Closing Invitation

   • A call to faith for those needing a new life.

   • A call to action for believers to share the message of life with others.

Key Takeaways

• Turnarounds often begin with small moments—simple acts of kindness, honest words, or revisiting God's call.

• Pain, failure, and cultural chaos can all be starting points for spiritual renewal.

• God is unrelenting in His pursuit of people, offering second chances and restoration.

• Faith isn’t meant to be private; it’s a public, outward witness to God’s truth and love.

• Even reluctant obedience can spark great transformation in others.

• Every believer has the power to help someone experience a “new life.”

Scriptural References

• Jonah 3:1–10 – God’s call repeated to Jonah; Nineveh's repentance and God's mercy.

• John 1:14 – God “invading our space” through the incarnation.

• Matthew 28:19–20 – The call to make disciples of all nations.

• Romans 10:14–15 – How can they believe unless someone tells them?

• Examples of Restoration – Moses (Exodus 2:11–25), David (2 Samuel 11–12), Peter (John 21).

Recorded 11/28/04

Guiding Question: How did we get the Old Testament, and how can we be confident it's truly from God?

Summary

Description: Robert Lewis opens his "Theology 101" series by diving deep into the origins and credibility of the Old Testament. Addressing a question most believers rarely explore—how we got the Old Testament and whether it is historically and theologically trustworthy—he walks through the human and divine processes behind the formation of the Old Testament. This includes insights into the nature of inspiration, the role of prophets and compilers, and the role archeology and prophecy play in affirming the Old Testament's supernatural nature. He also emphasizes Jesus’ own view of the Old Testament, adding a compelling reason for Christians to trust it.

Outline:

1. Introduction to Bibliology

   • Is the Bible true? If so, how do we know?

   • Special focus on the Old Testament.

2. Mystery and Faith

   • Much of the Old Testament’s origin lies in ancient history.

   • Acknowledges gaps but highlights archeological support.

3. Human Authorship Types

   • Inspired, proven leaders (e.g., Moses).

   • Inspired, proven prophets (e.g., Elijah).

   • Inspired compilers (e.g., authors of Psalms, Kings).

4. The Supernatural Smell Test

   • Books were accepted based on clear evidence of divine activity and historical consistency.

5. How the Old Testament Was Compiled

   • Slowly over 1,000 years.

   • Scrolls added over time until writing stopped around 400 BC.

   • Josephus’ affirmation of its completion and integrity.

6. The Apocrypha

   • Not accepted by Jews or early Christians.

   • Added later by the Catholic Church in 1546.

7. Jesus’ Endorsement

   • Treated the Old Testament as authoritative, infallible, imperishable, and historical.

   • Quoted it often and lived in fulfillment of its prophecies.

8. Prophecy as Proof

   • Dozens of fulfilled prophecies, especially those about Jesus.

   • Examples include birthplace, manner of death, resurrection, and eternal reign.

9. Conclusion and Call to Faith

   • Faith in the Old Testament is not blind—it’s based on strong evidence.

   • The Old Testament ultimately points to Jesus and invites us not to miss him.

Key Takeaways

• The Old Testament did not fall from the sky; it was compiled over a millennium by inspired leaders, prophets, and trusted compilers.

• Archeological and historical discoveries in the 20th century have increasingly supported its accuracy.

• Jesus himself affirmed the Old Testament’s authority and fulfillment in his life.

• Fulfilled prophecy gives powerful evidence of divine authorship.

• The Old Testament is not merely historical—it’s personal and relational, pointing directly to Jesus Christ.

• Faith in the Bible is reasonable and evidence-based, not blind or naive.

Scriptural References

• Genesis 49:10 (Tribe of Judah)

• Jeremiah 23:5–6 (King from David’s line)

• Micah 5:2 (Born in Bethlehem)

• Isaiah 7:14 (Born of a virgin)

• Isaiah 9:6 (Mighty God, Prince of Peace)

• Isaiah 53 (Suffering Servant, sacrifice, resurrection)

• Psalm 22 (Crucifixion details)

• Daniel 9:25–26 (Timeline of Messiah’s death)

• Matthew 4:4; 5:18; 15:3–6; 22:29; 24:37–39

• John 5:39–40; 10:35; 12:34–35

Recorded 10/17/04

Why does God allow Christians to suffer, and how should we respond when we face ridicule or rejection for living a godly life?

In this compelling sermon, Dr. Robert Lewis explores the often-unspoken reality of Christian suffering—not the kind caused by general hardship, but the unique suffering believers face simply for following Christ. Drawing from 1 Peter 4:12–19, he unpacks why this suffering is inevitable, what purpose it serves, and how we are called to respond. With honesty, humility, and clarity, Dr. Lewis addresses the emotional and spiritual challenges that come with being mocked, misunderstood, or even reviled for the mere name "Christian."

Using real-life stories—from Bob Dylan's conversion to personal moments of shame and boldness—he helps believers understand that such trials are not strange but deeply meaningful. They test our faith, shape our character, and identify us with Christ’s own suffering. And ultimately, they prepare us for joy—now and in eternity.

Whether you’re enduring peer pressure, workplace opposition, or quiet loneliness for your faith, this message will challenge and encourage you to rejoice and entrust your soul to a faithful Creator.

1. Introduction

   • The context of 1 Peter and Peter’s own martyrdom.

   • Today's suffering may not be physical—but it is real.

2. The Inevitability of Christian Suffering (v.12)

   • “Fiery ordeal” is not strange—it's to be expected.

   • Christian suffering is promised (2 Tim. 3:12).

   • The “bed of roses syndrome” many young believers fall into.

3. The Reason for Christian Suffering (v.12)

   • It tests our faith and proves its authenticity.

   • Real-life example: a Christian in Peru losing his job over integrity.

4. The Benefits of Christian Suffering (vv.13–14)

   • It aligns us with Christ's suffering.

   • There is joy now and joy to come.

   • It brings power and anointing (Spirit of glory rests on us).

5. The Boundaries of Christian Suffering (vv.15–16)

   • Not all suffering is godly—don’t suffer for wrongdoing.

   • Avoid becoming a "troublesome meddler."

6. The Perspective of Judgment (vv.17–18)

   • God's judgment starts with the household of God but extends to unbelievers.

   • Suffering reveals both the saved and the condemned.

7. The Proper Response to Suffering (v.19)

   • Entrust your soul to a faithful Creator.

   • Do what is right—stand firm in faith.

8. Conclusion & Prayer

   • Encouragement for those who’ve faced rejection for their faith.

   • A call to endure joyfully, just as Christ did.

• Christian suffering is not optional; it’s promised. Living godly in Christ will bring opposition.

• Suffering is a test. It reveals whether we truly follow Christ or just admire Him from afar.

• There is joy in suffering. Rejection aligns us with Jesus and assures us of future glory.

• Suffering brings spiritual power. When we stand up for our faith, God’s Spirit strengthens us.

• Not all suffering is righteous. We must guard against self-inflicted trouble and judgmental attitudes.

• Eternal perspective is essential. Our present trials are nothing compared to the judgment awaiting those who reject Christ.

• 1 Peter 4:12–19 – Main passage on Christian suffering and response.

• 2 Timothy 3:12 – “All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

• Hebrews 12:1–2 – Jesus endured suffering for the joy set before Him.

• Romans 8:1 – “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

• Matthew 5:11–12 – “Blessed are you when others revile you… rejoice and be glad.”

Recorded 10/26/80

Guiding Question What’s the best way to be morally pure in a world that constantly pulls us the other way?

Summary

Robert Lewis challenges believers to confront the ever-present pull of sin, not by merely resisting it, but by replacing it—through a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. The message opens with a stark reality: sin is not just around us; it’s in us. Using both humor and Scripture, Lewis exposes the deceptive nature of sin and the limitations of simply trying to “fight” it.

Drawing from Titus 2:11–14, a passage used as an early church creed, Lewis explains how Jesus not only brings salvation but also purifies lives. The key to moral purity, he argues, is not just in putting off sin but in actively pursuing Jesus. Lewis critiques the legalistic “fight sin” approach common in past generations and offers instead the “freedom-through-pursuit” model—developing new desires by loving and following Christ.

He ends with practical applications: one, seek forgiveness through Jesus immediately, and two, commit to a long-term path of spiritual growth through Scripture and obedience. That, he says, is how your story ends in freedom.

Outline:

1. Opening Insight – “Sin is not my friend”—but why does it stay so close?

2. Two Reasons Sin Persists – It's deceptive and it's part of our nature.

3. A Missed Target – Illustrating sin as “missing the mark” (harmatia).

4. Titus 2:11–14 – Jesus came to save and purify a people for Himself.

5. What We’re Called to Deny and Embrace – Ungodliness, worldly passions vs. self-control, uprightness, and godliness.

6. Wrong Approach to Moral Purity – Fighting sin head-on doesn’t work; it wears us out and leaves us vulnerable.

7. Right Approach to Moral Purity – Pursuing Jesus transforms desires, replacing sin’s hold with superior joy.

8. Results of Pursuing Jesus – Freedom, joy, influence, and the life we've always longed for.

9. Two Applications – Seek forgiveness now; commit to obeying God’s Word as the path to freedom.

Key Takeaways

• Sin is deceptive and internal—it disguises itself as a better way and lives within us.

• Moral purity cannot be sustained by sheer willpower or prohibition.

• Jesus came not only to save but to purify His people for good works.

• Pursuing Christ is the only effective path to lasting moral purity.

• Right living follows right focus: when Jesus becomes our joy, sin loses its pull.

• The goal isn't just to be "clean"—it's to live freely, purposefully, and fully through a relationship with Christ.

Scriptural References

• Isaiah 53:6 – “All we like sheep have gone astray…”

• Romans 7:15–24 – Paul’s struggle with the evil within.

• Titus 2:11–14 – Jesus came to save and purify a people zealous for good deeds.

• Luke 11:24–26 – A house swept clean but empty is still vulnerable.

• Matthew 5:8 – “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”

• Romans 6:23 – “The wages of sin is death…”

• 1 Timothy 4:12 – Be an example in purity and conduct.

• John 10:10 – “I came that they might have life, and have it more abundantly.”

• 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful…to forgive…”

Recorded 9/5/04

Guiding Question How do you stand strong and live well when you're spiritually on your own?

Summary

In this message, Robert Lewis draws a parallel between the emotional farewell of parents dropping their child off at college and the apostle Paul’s final words to the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 16. These “parting words” from Paul are short but charged imperatives meant to prepare the young, struggling Corinthian believers to live faithfully when left to stand on their own.

Lewis opens by summarizing the spiritual condition of the Corinthian church: educated and gifted, yet immature, morally confused, and spiritually wobbly. Then he unpacks Paul’s five closing exhortations in verses 13–14—urging believers to be spiritually alert, to stand firm in their faith, to be courageous, to draw strength from Christ, and to do everything in love.

Each imperative comes with vivid illustrations and real-world applications. The message concludes with a personal challenge: When you’re spiritually alone—at work, at home, or in a crisis—what’s actually true of you? And if it’s not working, are you ready to become something more?

Outline:

1. Introduction: A Parent’s Parting Words – Connecting college send-offs to Paul’s final exhortations.

2. Snapshot of the Corinthian Church – Gifted but immature, well-taught but not spiritually grounded.

3. Paul’s Parting Words (1 Corinthians 16:13–14):

   • Be spiritually alert – Stay awake to the spiritual realities and threats around you.

   • Stand firm in the faith – Hold fast to historic Christian truth amid cultural drift.

   • Be courageous – Take bold leaps of faith and live for eternal rewards.

   • Be strong (in the Lord) – Draw inner strength from the living presence of Christ.

   • Do everything in love – Let love temper your convictions and your courage.

4. Application Challenge – What is true of you when you’re spiritually alone?

Key Takeaways

• Living the Christian life means learning to stand alone with strength, courage, and clarity.

• Faith requires spiritual alertness in a world filled with subtle and overt threats to your soul.

• You must decide if you truly believe “the faith” (historic Christian teaching)—because you can’t stand firm in what you’re not sure of.

• The Christian journey involves leaping into faith experiences that feel risky but reveal God’s power.

• Inner strength comes not from self, but from Christ alive in you.

• Love must guide all your spiritual practices; without it, truth becomes harsh and courage becomes pride.

Scriptural References

• 1 Corinthians 16:13–14 – Paul’s five imperatives: “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong, let all you do be done in love.”

• 1 Corinthians 3:1–3 – The Corinthians were spiritual infants.

• Hebrews 5:14 – Mature believers have trained their senses to discern good and evil.

• 2 Thessalonians 2:15 – “Stand firm...and hold to the teachings.”

• Ephesians 3:16 – Strengthened with power through the Spirit in the inner man.

• Colossians 1:27 – “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

• John 14:23 – Jesus promises to make His home with those who love and obey Him.

Recorded 8/8/04

Guiding Question How much do I give—and what does God's way of giving really look like?

Summary

This message by Robert Lewis confronts the often uncomfortable topic of financial giving in the Christian life. Framed with humor and humility, Lewis opens by acknowledging the tension many feel when giving is discussed, especially in a culture steeped in consumerism. Using the metaphor of an oyster forming a pearl from an irritant, he illustrates how embracing the discomfort of generosity can lead to spiritual transformation.

Lewis unpacks the story of the rich young ruler in Mark 10 to highlight the grip that "stuff" can have on our hearts. He then guides the congregation through two core questions: "What is God's way of giving?" and "How much should I give?" He offers seven biblical principles of God’s giving way and addresses common objections, cultural challenges, and personal resistance. Finally, he offers a practical, time-bound challenge to try tithing for three months as a faith experiment.

Outline:

1. Opening Illustration – The draw of material possessions and the irritation of giving.

2. Mark 10: The Rich Young Ruler – A man owned by his possessions, unable to accept Jesus’ call.

3. The Oyster Metaphor – Giving as an irritant that can become a pearl through spiritual transformation.

4. Seven Biblical Descriptions of God’s Way of Giving:

   • Voluntary and from the heart

   • Regular and proportional

   • The first check written

   • Begins now, regardless of circumstances

   • Comes with a promised return (in this life and the next)

   • Declares belief in Jesus’ promises

   • Reflects God's character as a giver

5. How Much Should I Give?

   • It's a personal decision, guided by scriptural examples.

   • The tithe (10%) is presented as a historical and spiritual benchmark.

   • Giving above 10% is shown in every specific example in the Bible.

6. Practical Challenge – Try giving 10% for three months and evaluate the spiritual fruit.

7. Closing Prayer and Encouragement – Inviting listeners to experience abundant life through giving.

Key Takeaways

• Giving is always counter to the flesh; it's an irritant that can produce transformation.

• True biblical giving begins from the heart, not from guilt or pressure.

• Regular, proportional, and faith-first giving are part of God’s design for generosity.

• Scripture does not command a tithe in the New Testament but consistently holds up 10% or more as the example.

• Generosity is a declaration of faith and a reflection of God’s character.

• Practical, faith-filled steps like short-term tithing trials can lead to surprising spiritual and material blessings.

Scriptural References

• Mark 10:17–22 – The rich young ruler’s confrontation with Jesus.

• 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “God loves a cheerful giver.”

• 1 Corinthians 16:2 – Regular and proportional giving.

• Proverbs 3:9 – Honor the Lord with the first of your income.

• 2 Corinthians 8:1–3 – The generosity of the Macedonian churches.

• Luke 6:38 – “Give, and it will be given to you.”

• 1 Timothy 6:18–19 – Laying up treasure for the coming age through generosity.

• Acts 20:35 – “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

• John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave…”

• Malachi 3:10 – “Test me now in this… see if I will not open for you the windows of heaven.”

Recorded 5/30/04

Guiding Question: What should Christians do when they have a dispute with another believer—and how does our response reflect our spiritual maturity?

Summary: Robert Lewis addresses the growing tendency, both culturally and within the church, to resolve disputes through lawsuits rather than biblical reconciliation. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 6, he critiques the Corinthian church’s behavior—suing fellow believers before secular courts—and parallels it with modern America’s litigious spirit. The issue isn’t legal rights, he explains, but spiritual priorities and witness.

Paul’s rebuke in 1 Corinthians centers on the fact that believers, destined to judge the world and even angels in the coming Kingdom, are settling minor disputes before unbelievers. Robert emphasizes that real-world spirituality demands a higher, kingdom-minded response.

He presents three options for handling legitimate disputes among believers:

1. Court litigation with shame – A believer sues another, damaging relationships and the church’s witness.

2. Church arbitration with wisdom – Mature, trained believers help mediate and resolve conflict honorably within the church.

3. Personal resignation with loss – Willingly taking the loss to uphold the unity of the body and honor Christ.

Robert carefully distinguishes between legitimate disputes and criminal or unrepentant sin. He clarifies that issues like fraud or abuse may require legal action and should not be shielded by misapplying this passage.

He closes by urging listeners to commit: before ever thinking of court, reach out to the church and seek help from trained peacemakers. Not only is this biblical—it’s a path to preserving relationships, protecting the church’s integrity, and experiencing the abundance Christ offers.

Key Takeaways:

• Suing fellow believers over legitimate disputes brings shame and dishonors Christ.

• The church should be the first place we seek resolution through wise arbitration.

• Sometimes, spiritual maturity calls us to willingly take a loss for the sake of unity.

• Criminal actions or unrepentant sin are not covered by this passage and may require legal recourse.

• Practicing real-world spirituality means honoring Christ even in conflict.

Scripture References:

• 1 Corinthians 6:1–10 (lawsuits among believers)

• Daniel 7:27 (saints ruling with Christ)

• Matthew 19:28 (disciples judging the tribes)

• Revelation 20:4 (saints reign with Christ)

• Matthew 5:40 (give your cloak also)

• Galatians 6:7–8 (sowing and reaping) Sermon 3/21/2004