Burnt Hickory | Sermons - Episodes Tagged with “Faith”

Jesus Changes Everything | Restored & Sent

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0400

Jesus Changes Everything | Restored & Sent

After the resurrection, Jesus didn’t wait for the disciples to figure things out — He met them in the middle of their fear, behind locked doors, and changed everything.
In John 20:19–23, we see the risen Jesus offer four things we all desperately need: His presence, His peace, His power, and His purpose. Because of His victory over the grave, we don’t have to rely on our own strength to navigate life’s fears and uncertainties. Jesus steps into our lives, breathes new life into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, and calls us to live boldly for Him.

Key Insights:
• Jesus meets us in our fear — not after we’ve fixed it
• The peace Jesus gives is deeper than circumstances
• Jesus offers what no one else can: peace, power, and purpose
• Every believer is called and empowered to be sent
• The resurrection isn’t the end of the story — it’s the beginning of new life

Key Scripture: John 20

This message invites us to open every closed-off place in our lives and trust Jesus to fill them with His freedom. His peace quiets our fears. His Spirit empowers us to live fully. His purpose gives meaning to every step we take. Wherever you are, Jesus is ready to meet you — and change everything.

Speaker: Matt Petty
Series: Restored and Sent
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.

Faith Over Fear

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 29 Sep 2024 13:00:00 -0400

Fear is a gift from God. It can propel us forward and lead us to act. But what about the times when fear paralyzes us? This morning, as we hear from our Student Pastor, Chip Paul, we’ll explore the tension between faith and fear. It’s easy to let fear take over and guide our lives, but God's promises remind us that we are never alone, that He is our God, and that He will strengthen and uphold us. We’ll look at four promises from Isaiah to break free and no longer be afraid: God is with us, He is our strength, and He will sustain us through every challenge. This is a message of hope, purpose, and living intentionally for Christ, even in the face of uncertainty. Join us as we discover how faith can overcome fear and how we can live out that faith boldly, trusting in God's promises every step of the way.

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!

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.

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/

Why Baptism?

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

Baptism is the public symbol that you are believing in Jesus, receiving His saving work as your own, and publicly declaring to others that you are His follower. As we look at scripture today, Pastor Matt shows us a few misconceptions about baptism, and why it’s a crucial part of faith in Jesus.

Maybe you want to be saved today and follow Jesus. Maybe you have been saved, and you want to continue in obedience and be baptized. Then great, take the next step with us today – www.burnthickory.com/next

Forever Faith | Last Word Living

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 25 Oct 2020 11:00:00 -0400

Why is God not hurrying in His judgment? Because God doesn't have to hurry, He's already there. You don't have to hurry to a place that you're already in. In God wanting people to come to repentance, He is tarrying in His return. You wait in your return. God doesn't desire anyone to fail, He doesn't want us to fall. He wants us to come to repentance in Him.

It should affect us even more knowing that His judgment is coming. Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." He's saying, hey, there is another kingdom, seek that kingdom. That's what holy living looks like. That's what holy life looks like.

Forever Faith | Counterfeit Christianity

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 18 Oct 2020 11:00:00 -0400

We talk most often about the things that mean most to us. You ever met somebody that just stepped into a new relationship and they just won't shut up about it? How about somebody that got a new house or a new car? You can always tell a lot about a person through what they speak about the most. Peter says true believers speak of Christ, speak to Christ, speak what he has done, and what he's going to do.

Are you living a counterfeit life? Based on the message today, what is your next step to live as a true believer?

Forever Faith | 4 Marks of a True Disciple

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 11 Oct 2020 11:00:00 -0400

"For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of His Majesty. He received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying this is My Son in whom I love and with Him I am well pleased. We ourselves heard this voice that came from the heaven when we were with Him on the sacred mountain." Peter looks at the believers all around him and he says I know there's a lot of noise, I know there's a lot going on. I know a lot is happening, but if you're setting your minds in a direction to live a godly life then you're setting your minds to live a life of legacy.

People that have a problem with certain parts of the Bible are always the people that are not living that part of the Bible. They're taking their context, and they're taking their life and then they're beginning to filter that into the Bible. That's the wrong direction. It never goes that way. The Bible always is the truth and filters to our life therefore college students, when you decide to move in with your boyfriend, girlfriend, when you decide to get drunk every night of the weekend and when you decide to sleep around and do whatever you want to listen, the Bible is still the Bible and you're wrong. You're wrong.

If you want to be a disciple of Jesus, trust the Word of God. And when you trust the Word of God, it changes you.

Forever Faith | Gifting and Equipping of Our Faith

Burnt Hickory — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 11:00:00 -0400

Jesus gives us divine power, generosity, promises and an inheritance with an escape from the world's corruption. He has called us as servants, which means that He is Lord, we are not, and what He asks of us is of supreme importance. It may seem overwhelming, but He has also equipped our faith by giving us faith filled goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, Godliness, mutual affection and love. We reach this point beyond the middle of the road when we totally rely on Jesus for His peace and presence.