Burnt Hickory | Sermons - Episodes Tagged with “Bible Study”

Held in the Gardener’s Hands | Power and Promise

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0400

Held in the Gardener's Hands | Power and Promise | John 15:1-8

Walking through the rich Holy Land context of John 15, this message unpacks Jesus' intimate teaching to His disciples after the Last Supper as they crossed the Kidron Valley toward the Mount of Olives. Using the familiar metaphor of vineyards, Jesus reveals Himself as the true vine and God as the gardener who tends to believers in two essential ways.

Key Insights:
• Jesus HOLDS Every Branch in His Hands - Understanding your secure position in Christ and how God lifts up fallen branches to reconnect them to the source of life.
• Jesus APPLIES the Shears with Love - Why pruning isn't punishment but preparation for greater fruitfulness in your life.
• Jesus NOURISHES Our Connection - The vital importance of abiding in Christ and how this relationship sustains us.
• Jesus DEVELOPS lasting FRUIT - How genuine spiritual fruit comes only through connection to the vine.
• Jesus STAYS through Every Season - Finding comfort in being chosen and kept by the Gardener who never gives up on you.

Key Scripture: John 15

Whether you're questioning your faith journey, struggling with spiritual growth, or seeking to understand God's purpose in difficult seasons, this message reminds us that "the gardener isn't looking to get rid of you. He's looking to reconnect you."

Speaker: Marty Godfrey
Series: Power and Promise
Location: Burnt Hickory Baptist Church

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Hope That Lasts | Christmas at Burnt Hickory

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 15 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0500

What if hope wasn't just a wishful feeling but an unbreakable promise? In a world filled with uncertainty, disappointment, and constant change, there's a hope that goes beyond temporary circumstances—a hope that truly lasts.
This morning, we'll explore a hope that transcends wishful thinking, stretching beyond the season and far greater than fleeting optimism. This message reveals hope isn't about wishing for the best but confidently knowing that the best is yet to come. Discover how your past doesn't define you, your present can be reshaped, your future can be reimagined, and you can experience a hope that sustains you through every challenge.
Whether you're feeling stuck, searching for meaning, or simply wanting something more, this message offers a fresh perspective that can transform how you see your life and future.
Ready to embrace a hope that changes everything? Take your next step at burnthickory.com/next.

Loving God with all your Heart, Soul, and Strength

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0500

What does it truly mean to love God with everything you are? Beyond surface-level emotions and routine actions, there's a profound invitation to a love that transforms everything.
Join us as we hear from our dear mission partner, Peter Abungu, as he explores the depths of loving God completely—with our heart, soul, and strength. This sermon isn't just a talk—it's a heartfelt exploration of what it means to be fully alive, fully connected, and fully devoted.
In a world that often confuses love with temporary feelings or religious routine, we'll dive into the radical understanding that love is a choice. It's about relationship, not just going through the motions. It's about staying connected, not just momentary passion.
You'll discover:

The transformative power of loving God completely
How total devotion changes everything in your life
Why your heart determines your spiritual journey
The difference between serving with and without love

Whether you're wrestling with faith, seeking deeper meaning, or simply curious about spiritual growth, this message offers something profound for everyone.
Ready to take the next step in your faith journey? Visit burnthickory.com/next to learn more.

Special Guest: Peter Abungu.

Reaching the Unreached | Missions Sunday

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0500

What does it mean to truly live out your faith? Missions Sunday invites us to reflect on the picture of heaven painted in Revelation 7—a great multitude from every nation and tongue, united in worship before the throne of God. This vision challenges us to live as people redeemed by His grace, to praise Him for the victory that’s already ours, and to share His eternal love with a world longing for hope.

As you listen, consider this: Where is God calling you to make an eternal impact? Step into His purpose for your life today.

Take your next step with us at www.burnthickory.com/next.

Special Guest: Chris White.

Our View of God Shapes our Response to God | Living in His Glory

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0500

What happens when we truly see God for who He is? In this message, we explore the powerful moment of Jesus' transfiguration in Matthew 17 and how it reveals two foundational truths about God's nature: His transcendence and His immanence.

God’s transcendence reminds us of His majesty and holiness, elevating our reverence for Him. At the same time, His immanence brings us close, showing His intimate involvement in our lives and elevating our relationship with Him. Together, these truths challenge us to stand in awe of God's greatness while living devoted to His personal and unfailing love.

How should we respond? By surrendering to His eternal presence, living in awe of His bigness, and being deeply devoted to His love. This life-changing encounter teaches us that our view of God directly shapes our response to Him.

Are you ready to see God more clearly and take the next step in your faith? Visit www.burnthickory.com/next to learn more.

God Speaks and We Should Listen | Living in His Glory

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0500

What happens when God speaks? Do we stop to listen, or do we rush past His voice in the noise of life? Today, we'll explore Matthew 17:1-8, where Peter, James, and John experience the awe-inspiring transfiguration of Jesus. As they witness His glory, God interrupts their moment with a profound command: "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!"

Through this passage, we’re reminded that encountering Jesus should leave us changed and moved to action. But how does God speak to us today? Whether through His Word, moments of worship, challenges, or wise counsel, He’s always calling us closer. This message challenges us to pause, ask how God might be interrupting our lives, and respond in obedience.

Are you ready to fully experience Jesus? Discover how to recognize, love, listen to, and live for Him in every moment. Watch now and take the next step in your faith journey by visiting burnthickory.com/next.

Personal Time with Jesus | Living in His Glory

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0500

Do we prioritize time alone with Jesus, or let the noise of life pull us away? This week, we dive into the transformative power of personal, intentional moments with God. Through the story of Jesus leading His disciples to Mount Tabor, we see that true strength for public witness starts in private surrender. Jesus calls us to set aside distractions and seek Him, allowing these private encounters to become the wellspring for our life and faith.

In Matthew 17, Jesus models solitude, prayer, and a heart open to God’s presence. As He chose, led, and revealed Himself to His disciples, He invites us to do the same—reflecting His glory in our lives by meeting with Him deeply and regularly. Together, we’ll explore practical steps for intentional time with Jesus, recognizing that these private moments hold the power to ignite purpose and impact the world for His kingdom.

Ready to go deeper in your walk with Christ? Take your next step at burnthickory.com/next.

Come and Die

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0500

What does it mean to truly follow Jesus? In today’s message, "Come and Die," we dive into Jesus’ powerful words from Luke 9:23-25, where He invites us to surrender our lives fully to Him. This call to "deny yourself, take up your cross daily, and follow Me" is both a challenge and an invitation into a life transformed by faith. Jesus doesn’t just ask us to believe; He invites us to live fully surrendered—to let go of the world’s expectations and embrace a life set apart, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and driven by a purpose beyond ourselves.

We’ll explore what it looks like to say "yes" to God each day, trusting that He can realign our plans, reshape our desires, and repurpose our gifts for His glory. As we look at examples of surrender in Scripture, we’re reminded that Jesus is worth any cost, any sacrifice, and any risk we might take to follow Him.

Join us as we discover together how God intends to use each of us, how the Spirit empowers us, and how we can live fully for Him. Ready to take the next step? Visit burnthickory.com/next to learn more.

Special Guest: Mike Taylor.

Patience Questions & Secrets

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0400

When life feels uncertain, and challenges press in, where do we turn? Today’s message in our Faith in Action series explores James 5:13-18 to reveal the power of prayer—how faith-fueled prayers bring healing, forgiveness, and transformation. Through questions on prayer, faith, and confession, we discover why God listens to prayers rooted in trust and humility, and how confession opens us to His healing. We’ll explore practical ways to approach God, pursue righteousness, and commit to continual prayer, following the example of Elijah's bold faith.

Are you ready to unlock the transformative power of prayer? Take your next step in your faith journey at burnthickory.com/next.

Patience | Faith in Action

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 20 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0400

What does patience look like in your life? In today’s message from the book of James, we dive into the profound connection between faith and patience. We explore how Godly patience is not just about waiting, but about trusting—looking back on God's faithfulness, looking forward to His promises, and looking up for His strength. Through the examples of the farmer, the prophets, and the life of Job, we see how patience develops perseverance in the midst of life's trials. This kind of patience grows when we stand firm in faith, even when things seem uncertain.

Are you facing challenges that test your patience? Today’s message offers insight into how you can deepen your faith, build perseverance, and discover how God is full of compassion and mercy even in the waiting. If you’re ready to take the next step in your faith journey, we invite you to visit burnthickory.com/next.

God Willing | Faith in Action

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 13 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0400

We want to Today, we dive into a vital question: Are we truly living in line with God's will? In this message, we explore what it means to have an active, ongoing commitment to do the will of God. As we reflect on the teachings of James, we'll unpack the four common attitudes people have toward God's will—ignoring it, denying it, disobeying it, or faithfully doing it.

We’ll also consider what God’s will looks like in our lives: being radically saved, controlled by the Holy Spirit, pursuing a pure life, and submitting to His authority. Ultimately, a life in step with God's will is not just about knowing what is right—it's about living it out in every moment, every decision.

Where do you stand in your journey? Have you surrendered your life to follow God's will? If you’re ready to take the next step, we'd love to connect with you, answer your questions, and pray with you. Feel free to reach out, and remember—you’re never walking this journey alone.

Join us today and learn how you can align your life with God’s purpose and discover true fulfillment. To take the next step in your faith journey, visit burnthickory.com/next.

The Mighty Tongue | Faith in Action

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 22 Sep 2024 13:00:00 -0400

Your words hold incredible power! They can uplift, guide, and praise—but they can also harm, deceive, and destroy. As we dive deeper into the book of James, we’ll uncover one of our greatest tools: the tongue. Just like a small rudder steering a massive ship, our words reflect our hearts' true direction. Together, we'll explore how the tongue reveals our relationship with Christ and wields immense power over our lives. The challenge? Acknowledging its influence and the ripple effects it has on everything around us. However, when we surrender it to God, the tongue transforms into a powerful instrument for honoring Him and guiding others. Join us on this journey as we discover how to tame the tongue and realize we can't do it alone.

What is the Big Deal about Being Committed to The Church?

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 15 Sep 2024 13:00:00 -0400

Attending versus membership: why should someone become a member of the church? What does it truly offer? Today’s sermon will show the significance of standing behind and belonging to a church community. God invites us not just to attend but to engage and grow within His family fully. As we explore the teachings of Jesus in the book of Matthew, we’ll see His passion for the church and understand why being an active part of a local church is essential for our spiritual well-being. The church is not just a building; it's a called-out body of believers. Join us as we look at scripture and the heart of the church and learn how to deeply root ourselves in a community that embodies God's love and calling for each of us.

Saving Faith Has Action | Faith in Action

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 08 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Words are easy, but are your actions telling a different story? As we continue our journey through the book of James, we're covering a powerful lesson: the connection between belief and action. James reminds us that faith without works is not just stagnant—it's lifeless. It's not enough to simply profess our faith; we must pursue a growing, thriving faith that propels us to act, serve, and uplift those around us. We'll explore three types of faith—dead, demonic, and saving—and reflect on how true, growing faith can spark true transformations in our lives. Together, we'll see the benefit of striving for a faith that's so much more than the words we speak and where we will see the true fruit produced when our faith aligns with our words and motivates our actions. We can’t wait to worship and grow with you!

We want to show and receive God’s love to those around us, and we live that out practically everyday. We strive to bring hope by meeting physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of everyone we come in contact with. We love fiercely—like a family, because everyone is included and our Father loves us all. We’re building biblical community by seeking God’s Word, believing in His promises, and applying what we learn everyday.

Our hope is that you and your family find a home with us where you can learn, grow, live, and thrive in Christ Jesus. We’re a multi-generational church with something to offer everyone in your family. Join us for an online or on-campus Sunday morning worship service, and take the next step in your journey with us!

No Favoritism | Faith in Action

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Love your neighbor as yourself. But how do we truly embrace this calling when differences arise? What if we find ourselves prioritizing or brushing off others, whether a coworker or even a family member, because of how we view them? This morning, as we continue our journey through the book of James, we invite you to reflect with us on the theme of favoritism. Together, we’ll uncover how favoritism can challenge our understanding of love and community and how it can steer us away from the grace we are called to embody. Join us in this exploration as we seek to align our hearts with God's vision of love, mercy, and justice for everyone. Let's walk boldly in our faith, celebrating diversity and unity without bias. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content, and visit www.burnthickory.com to find out more!

Trials, Temptations and Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus | Faith in Action

Burnt Hickory — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 01:30:00 -0400

Are you finding it challenging to navigate the trials and temptations in your life? Join us this morning as we continue our sermon series, Faith in Action, journeying through the book of James. We’ll explore how trials expose the true foundations of our lives, reminding us to focus on God's eternal reward. You’ll learn the difference between trials and temptations, understand where temptation really comes from, and discover how to stand firm by fixing our eyes on Jesus. This is a powerful time to grow in faith, find encouragement, and connect with others. Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more updates, and visit www.burnthickory.com for additional information. See you there!

Making Our Own God Never Goes Well

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 23 Jun 2024 11:00:00 -0400

This week, we delve into the pitfalls of idolatry. Drawing from the rich narratives in Exodus, we will examine how the Israelites' creation of the golden calf serves as a stark warning about the dangers of shaping God into our own image instead of worshipping Him as He truly is. We will reflect on how we, too, can fall into the trap of creating our own "gods" in times of uncertainty and stress, rebelling against the one true source of satisfaction for our souls.

This sermon will challenge us to trust in God’s revelation, even when circumstances are unclear, and to expose and surrender our idols to Christ. We will learn the importance of recognizing and fleeing from sin, understanding its inevitable consequences, and grounding our trust in the God revealed in Scripture, rather than in cultural or personal distortions.

We invite you to reflect on these vital questions: Are there idols you’ve created in your life? Are you truly trusting in God's revealed character through Scripture? As always, we’d love to take the time to answer any questions you have and to pray with you – so reach out. Discover the next step in your faith journey by visiting burnthickory.com/next or visiting our website at www.burnthickory.com.

The Power of One Act of Obedience

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 18 Apr 2021 11:00:00 -0400

You may never know how one small obedient act will impact eternity. The widow in 1 Kings is a perfect example of God’s plan in action as a part of a larger narrative. We learn today, that when we trust God and give Him our all, we grow personally, and it paves the way for others to come to faith also.

Maybe you’ve never trusted God’s plan or are in a place where His timing doesn’t make sense to you. Don’t worry, its perfectly normal to have questions. We’d love to answer them, so feel free to reach out and ask here - pastor@burnthickory.com or take the next step with us here - https://www.burnthickory.com/next-steps/accept-jesus-christ/

Easter | The Significance of the Resurrection

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 04 Apr 2021 11:00:00 -0400

You might wonder why Christians talk so much about “the resurrection”. It might be confusing to understand the significance of Jesus’ death on our lives today. Why should we have hope today? If you’ve thought these things before, then you are in good company. Pastor Matt shows us the significance of the resurrection and what it can mean to you personally.

What we want is for you to understand that Jesus’ death was a sacrifice for your sins, and that His resurrection is of personal importance. That one act of God forgives your past, transforms your present, and secures your future. If you’ve got questions about Jesus or want someone to pray with you, then take the next step here – burnthickory.com/next – we’d love to connect with you.