Robert Lewis Sermons

Robert Lewis
  • 5.0 (20)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Sermon archives of Dr. Robert Lewis from his time as the Teaching Pastor and Directional Leader at Fellowship Bible Church in Little Rock, Arkansas. Robert is the founder of the well known ”Men’s Fraternity” series and ”BetterMan” ministry. He has authored several notable books including ”Raising a Modern-Day Knight”, ”The Church of Irresistible Influence”, and ”Rocking the Roles: Building a Win-Win Marriage”.

  1. 19h ago

    Everything You Wanted to Know About Judging Your Brother

    Guided Question When you find yourself judging someone else, are you willing to examine your own heart first—and are your words and actions aimed at restoration or condemnation? Summary This episode examines one of Jesus’ most quoted—and most misunderstood—teachings: “Do not judge” from Matthew 7:1–5. Rather than forbidding all discernment or accountability, Jesus is warning against unrighteous judgment—judgments based on incomplete information, personal preferences, or vindictive emotions. The message begins by highlighting how easily people can be judged unfairly and then turns to the “courtroom of the mind,” where we regularly act as judge and jury over the people around us. Scripture shows that believers are called to exercise righteous judgment, confront sin, and hold one another accountable, but that judgment must be guided by God’s standards rather than our own. The message identifies three common forms of unrighteous judgment: judging with incomplete information, judging others according to personal preference rather than biblical principle, and judging from a vindictive spirit fueled by jealousy, envy, revenge, or dislike. These judgments often move beyond our thoughts into gossip, isolation, revenge, division, and other actions that wound the body of Christ. Jesus’ illustration of the speck and the log reminds us that righteous judgment must begin with ourselves. Before confronting someone else’s weakness, we must honestly examine our own lives. The goal is not condemnation but restoration. The episode concludes with five principles for judging with a clear eye: judge according to God’s Word, make sure you are not guilty of the same sin, address the person directly, rely on facts rather than hearsay, and seek reconciliation rather than condemnation. Galatians 6:1–2 provides the final picture: believers who are spiritual should restore those caught in sin with gentleness while remaining aware of their own weakness. The challenge is personal and practical: identify those we may be judging through jealousy, hurt, or resentment, examine how we have treated them, and allow the Spirit of God to show us what we can do to bring restoration. Outline 1. The Judicial Principle — Matthew 7:1 “Do not judge” does not mean avoiding all accountability. Scripture calls believers to make righteous judgments. Jesus is addressing unrighteous judgment. 2. Unrighteous Judgment Judging with incomplete information Judging by personal preference rather than biblical principle Judging from a vindictive spirit 3. The Judicial Boomerang — Matthew 7:2 The standard we use toward others will be used toward us. Believers will face a judgment of their works. God takes our treatment of others seriously. 4. The Judicial Focus — Matthew 7:3–5 Examine the “log” in your own eye first. Righteous judgment begins with self-examination. We must deal honestly with our own sin before confronting others. 5. Five Principles for Righteous Judgment Follow God’s standard. Do not be guilty of the same sin. Speak directly to the person. Use facts, not hearsay. Seek restoration, not condemnation. 6. The Goal: Restoration — Galatians 6:1–2 Restore those caught in sin with gentleness. Remain humble and aware of your own weakness. Protect the unity of the body of Christ. Key Takeaways “Do Not Judge” Does Not Mean “Never Discern” — Jesus forbids unrighteous judgment, not biblical accountability. Incomplete Information Leads to Unrighteous Judgment — We should gather facts before forming conclusions. Personal Preference Is Not God’s Standard — We must distinguish biblical principles from our own likes and dislikes. Vindictive Judgment Wounds Others — Jealousy, envy, revenge, and resentment can distort our judgment. Examine Yourself First — Before addressing another person’s “speck,” we must deal with the “log” in our own eye. Righteous Judgment Is Direct and Truthful — Biblical confrontation should be based on facts and addressed personally rather than through gossip or hearsay. The Goal Is Restoration — Righteous judgment seeks to heal and restore, not condemn and divide. Scripture References Matthew 7:1–5 — Judge rightly, beginning with yourself. Matthew 18:15–17 — Confront sin directly and pursue restoration. John 7:24 — Judge with righteous judgment, not by appearances. 1 Corinthians 5:1–5 — The church is called to address serious sin. Colossians 1:28 — Believers are admonished toward maturity in Christ. Romans 8:1 — Those in Christ are free from condemnation. 2 Corinthians 5:10 — Believers will face Christ’s judgment concerning their works. Psalm 50:21–22 — God will expose hidden wrongdoing and judgment. Hebrews 4:12 — God’s Word examines the heart and its intentions. Galatians 6:1–2 — Restore those caught in sin with gentleness and humility. Ephesians 4:1–3 — Preserve the unity of the Spirit and the bond of peace.   Recorded on 5.8.83

    Everything You Wanted to Know About Judging Your Brother

  2. Sep 28

    Jesus and the Law

    Guided Question Are you trusting in your own righteousness and good works, or are you relying on the righteousness of Jesus, who perfectly fulfilled the law on your behalf? Summary In this episode, Dr. Robert Lewis explores Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:17–20 concerning the law. He explains why understanding God’s law is essential for understanding God’s holiness, humanity’s sinfulness, Christ’s work, and the greatness of salvation. Jesus did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it completely. Dr. Lewis distinguishes the Mosaic law from the oral traditions developed by the scribes and Pharisees. While the law revealed God’s righteous standard, these additional regulations became so extensive that they could actually contradict and invalidate God’s commands. Jesus confronted this legalism and redirected attention to the true intent of God’s Word. The law also reveals that righteousness is not merely about outward behavior. Jesus raises the standard by showing that God examines the heart, including motives and attitudes. The law therefore exposes humanity’s inability to achieve righteousness through personal effort. This leads to the heart of the gospel: Jesus alone perfectly fulfilled the law. While the law leaves humanity aware of its sin and unable to earn salvation, Christ offers His righteousness to those who trust in Him. Salvation is not achieved through religious performance or good deeds, but received through faith in Jesus Christ. Outline 1. The Importance of the Law The law reveals God’s holiness and righteous standard. Understanding the law helps us understand sin, salvation, justification, and Christ’s work. 2. What the Law Contains Ceremonial laws Civil laws Moral laws The moral law provides a continuing standard of righteousness. 3. Jesus and the Law Jesus came not to abolish the law but to fulfill it. He fulfilled its ceremonial, civil, and moral requirements. God’s Word is completely reliable and trustworthy. 4. The Problem of Legalism The scribes and Pharisees added extensive oral regulations. Their traditions sometimes contradicted the very law they claimed to uphold. Jesus challenged religious traditions that replaced God’s Word. 5. Righteousness Beyond External Behavior The law addresses the heart as well as outward actions. Jesus exposes the inadequacy of outward religious performance. True righteousness must extend to attitudes, motives, and desires. 6. The Only Way to Salvation No one can earn salvation by keeping the law. The law reveals our sin and inability to meet God’s standard. Jesus alone perfectly fulfilled the law. Through faith, believers receive Christ’s righteousness. 7. The Cross Road One path trusts in personal righteousness and good works. The other trusts in Christ and His righteousness. Jesus offers forgiveness, grace, and entrance into the kingdom of heaven. Key Takeaways Jesus Fulfilled the Law: Christ did not abolish God’s law; He perfectly fulfilled it. God’s Word Is Reliable: Scripture provides a stable and trustworthy foundation in an uncertain world. Legalism Distorts God’s Law: Human traditions can become substitutes for God’s commands when they are elevated above Scripture. God Looks at the Heart: Righteousness involves motives and attitudes, not merely outward actions. The Law Reveals Our Sin: The law shows that no person can earn justification through good works. Jesus Is Our Righteousness: Christ accomplished what no human being could accomplish by perfectly fulfilling the law. Salvation Comes Through Faith: The gospel offers Christ’s righteousness as a gift of grace to those who trust in Him. Scripture References Matthew 5:17–20 — Jesus fulfills the law and calls for true righteousness. Mark 7:5–13 — Jesus confronts traditions that replace God’s commands. Exodus 20:1–17 — The Ten Commandments establish foundational moral law. Proverbs 16:2 — God examines a person’s motives. 1 Samuel 16:7 — God looks at the heart rather than outward appearance. Matthew 5:21–28 — Jesus applies the law to inner attitudes as well as outward actions. Matthew 23:27–28 — Jesus exposes the hypocrisy of outward righteousness without inward transformation. Galatians 3:22 — Scripture reveals humanity’s bondage to sin. Romans 3:20–24 — The law reveals sin, while righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 3:23 — All have sinned and fall short of God’s glory. 1 Timothy 5:8 — Believers are responsible to care for their families.   Recorded 3.13.83

    Jesus and the Law

  3. Sep 21

    The Happy Christian

    Guided Question What step are you on in learning to live God’s way — recognizing your spiritual poverty, mourning what keeps you from Him, submitting your life to His direction, or hungering and thirsting for righteousness? Summary In this episode, Dr. Robert Lewis explores the first four Beatitudes in Matthew 5:1–12 and Jesus’ surprising teaching about the path to true happiness. Rather than finding happiness through the things the world tells us will satisfy us, Jesus presents a different way of living—one rooted in dependence upon God, repentance, submission, and a deep desire for righteousness. Lewis explains that the Beatitudes are not merely actions but attitudes that become part of who we are. The first four focus on our relationship with God and build upon one another like steps leading us toward deeper spiritual maturity. The first step is poverty of spirit. To be “poor in spirit” means recognizing our complete inadequacy and realizing that we cannot live this life successfully on our own. Lewis contrasts this with the cultural message of self-sufficiency and emphasizes that spiritual life begins when we are willing to admit our need and cry out, “God, help.” The second step is mourning. Jesus is not simply talking about sadness but about a deep inward grief over the things that block our relationship with God. Through the story of the sinful woman in Luke 7 and the example of the rich young ruler, Lewis shows how genuine sorrow over sin can lead to repentance and ultimately to the comfort God promises. The third step is submission. Lewis explains that biblical meekness is not weakness or passivity but strength brought under control. Just as a wild horse is brought under the control of its rider, believers are called to bring their goals, priorities, time, talents, and desires under God’s direction. This submission is an ongoing process as God exposes and removes the areas of resistance in our lives. The fourth and highest step is hungering and thirsting for righteousness. Jesus describes a passion so intense that everything else becomes secondary. Those who deeply desire God, His will, and His righteousness are promised that they will be satisfied. Lewis describes this as the deep fulfillment and stability that the world’s temporary promises cannot provide. Lewis contrasts this path with the emptiness that can come from pursuing success, wealth, achievement, intellect, or worldly philosophies without God. He points to Abraham as an example of someone who progressively walked these four steps—leaving what was familiar, allowing God to remove obstacles, submitting to God’s direction, and ultimately demonstrating complete trust when asked to offer Isaac. Abraham’s life ended with the biblical description that he was “satisfied with life.” The message closes with a personal challenge: What step are you on? Have you admitted your spiritual poverty? Have you mourned deeply enough over the things that separate you from God? Have you submitted your life to His direction? And are you hungering and thirsting for God Himself? Jesus’ promise is that this difficult path ultimately leads to comfort, spiritual life, and deep satisfaction. Outline 1. The Foundation of True Happiness Jesus presents a different path to happiness. The Beatitudes establish the foundation for life in God’s kingdom. The first four focus on our relationship with God. 2. The Happiness of Poverty Recognizing our spiritual inadequacy. Rejecting self-sufficiency and pride. Depending upon God and receiving the reality of His kingdom. 3. The Happiness of Sadness Mourning over the things that block our relationship with God. Recognizing sin and allowing God to expose it. Finding comfort through repentance and forgiveness. 4. The Happiness of Submission Understanding meekness as strength under God’s control. Bringing our goals, priorities, time, and abilities under His direction. Surrendering the areas of resistance in our lives. 5. The Happiness of Hunger Developing an intense desire for God and His righteousness. Moving beyond spiritual complacency. Trusting Jesus’ promise that those who hunger and thirst will be satisfied. 6. The Path to a Satisfied Life Abraham demonstrates these principles through his life. Worldly pursuits cannot provide lasting satisfaction. True happiness comes from living according to God’s way. Key Takeaways True happiness is found through a life oriented toward God. Spiritual poverty begins with admitting that we need God. Mourning over sin can lead to repentance and comfort. Meekness means bringing our strength and self-will under God’s control. Following God requires surrendering the areas of resistance in our lives. Spiritual hunger means developing a deep desire for God and His righteousness. The things that seem difficult in Jesus’ teaching are ultimately intended to lead us to life and satisfaction. Worldly success, possessions, and achievement cannot provide the deep fulfillment found in God. The four Beatitudes build upon one another: poverty → mourning → submission → hunger and thirst for righteousness. Jesus promises that those who pursue this path will ultimately be satisfied. Scripture References Matthew 5:1–12 — Jesus introduces the Beatitudes and the path to true happiness. Matthew 5:3 — Spiritual poverty recognizes our need for God. Matthew 5:4 — Those who mourn over spiritual brokenness will be comforted. Matthew 5:5 — The meek, those submitted to God, will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:6 — Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be satisfied. Isaiah 57:15 — God dwells with the humble and contrite. Luke 7:36–50 — A sinful woman demonstrates deep mourning, faith, and repentance. Romans 7:15–25 — Paul recognizes his struggle with sin and cries out for deliverance. James 4:4–10 — Believers are called to reject friendship with the world, repent, and humble themselves before God. 2 Corinthians 7:8–11 — Godly sorrow produces repentance. Mark 10:17–27 — The rich young ruler struggles to surrender what stands between him and following Jesus. Daniel 7:27 — The saints of the Most High are promised dominion over the kingdoms. Genesis 22:1–18 — Abraham demonstrates complete submission and trust in God. Genesis 25:7–8 — Abraham dies at a good old age, described as satisfied with life. Ecclesiastes 12:1, 13–14 — Solomon urges people to remember their Creator and live in light of God’s ultimate purposes.   Recorded 2.20.83

    The Happy Christian

  4. Sep 15

    The King Steps Forth

    Guided Question Are you trying to live the Christian life in your own strength, or are you learning to depend on the power of the Holy Spirit—and what might God be asking you to surrender in order to follow Him more fully? Summary In Matthew 4:12–25, Jesus steps into His public ministry, bringing Matthew’s carefully prepared introduction to its climax. After His temptation in the wilderness, Jesus returns “in the power of the Spirit,” demonstrating a crucial truth for the Christian life: God has given believers the Holy Spirit, but we must learn to depend on His power rather than our own strength. Jesus begins His ministry not in Jerusalem, the center of religious and political influence, but in Galilee—a region viewed as rough, unsophisticated, and spiritually unimportant. Yet the people of Galilee recognized their spiritual need and were more open to Jesus’ message. This becomes a warning against religious “tokenism”: outward religious activity can create the illusion of spiritual health while keeping people from genuinely encountering Christ. Jesus came for those who recognize their need for Him. The calling of Peter, Andrew, James, and John also reveals that discipleship is more than passive belief. To follow Jesus means becoming a learner and being willing to radically alter our values. These disciples left behind their vocation, security, family expectations, and familiar ways of life in order to follow Christ. Finally, Jesus’ ministry of teaching, proclaiming, and healing demonstrates that the gospel is not merely something to be spoken. His works authenticated His message, and His ministry provides a model for the church: if the church is going to effectively advance the gospel, it must demonstrate the credibility of its message through faithful deeds as well as words. Outline Jesus Prepared for Public Ministry Matthew presents Jesus’ credentials before the Sermon on the Mount. The wilderness temptation prepared Jesus for ministry in the power of the Spirit. Living by the Power of the Spirit Jesus returned from the wilderness empowered by the Spirit. Christians cannot live the supernatural Christian life through human strength. Trials can teach us to depend on the Holy Spirit. Three Keys to Experiencing God’s Power Recognize that we cannot live the Christian life in our own strength. Believe that God has made His power available through the Holy Spirit. Exercise that faith continually in everyday situations. Jesus Begins in Galilee His ministry fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy. Galilee was spiritually open because its people recognized their need. Religious tokenism can hide spiritual poverty. The Cost of Discipleship Peter and Andrew left their vocation. James and John left their father and family expectations. Following Jesus requires a radical alteration of values. A Ministry Authenticated by Deeds Jesus proclaimed the gospel through teaching and demonstrated its reality through healing. The church must be more than talk. Gospel ministry should be authenticated by faithful deeds. Key Takeaways The Christian life cannot be lived effectively through human strength. The Holy Spirit is God’s provision for supernatural Christian living. Trials can teach us to depend on God’s power rather than ourselves. Religious activity is not a substitute for genuine faith in Christ. Discipleship requires surrendering whatever competes with following Jesus. Following Christ means becoming a learner whose values are continually shaped by Him. The church must demonstrate the gospel through both words and deeds. If there is no spiritual power, ministry can become nothing more than human programs and effort. Scripture References Matthew 3:16 — Jesus is filled with the Holy Spirit. Matthew 4:1–11 — Jesus is tested in the wilderness. Matthew 4:12–16 — Jesus begins His ministry in Galilee, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy. Matthew 4:17 — Jesus calls people to repent because the kingdom is near. Matthew 4:18–22 — Jesus calls His first disciples to follow Him. Matthew 4:23–25 — Jesus teaches, proclaims the gospel, and heals. Luke 4:1 — Jesus is full of the Holy Spirit and led into the wilderness. Luke 4:14 — Jesus returns in the power of the Spirit. Hebrews 5:8 — Jesus learns obedience through suffering. Jeremiah 17:5 — Human strength cannot replace dependence on God. 2 Corinthians 3:5 — Our adequacy comes from God. James 1:2–4 — Trials develop spiritual maturity. Matthew 10:37 — Following Jesus requires ultimate loyalty to Him. Isaiah 9:1–7 — The coming Messiah brings light to those in darkness.   Recorded 2.6.83

    The King Steps Forth

  5. Sep 7

    Jesus, Son of David

    Guided Question Have you merely acknowledged Jesus as Savior, or have you truly received Him as King—and what would change in your life if He were fully reigning? Summary This episode explores the significance of the genealogy in Matthew 1, revealing that the long list of names is far more than a record of ancestry. In Jewish culture, genealogy carried tremendous power. A person's ancestry could determine his eligibility for the priesthood, his rights within the covenant community, and his claim to Israel's throne. Matthew therefore begins his Gospel by identifying Jesus as “the son of David and the son of Abraham,” establishing both His Jewish heritage and His royal credentials. The sermon examines Matthew's genealogy alongside Luke's, showing how the two genealogies emphasize different aspects of Jesus' lineage. Matthew traces the royal line through David and Solomon, while Luke traces another branch of David's family through Nathan. The discussion then addresses the curse placed on Jeconiah, whose descendants were disqualified from sitting on David's throne. Through the virgin birth and Joseph's legal adoption of Jesus, Christ receives the legal rights of the royal line without inheriting Jeconiah's cursed bloodline. Luke's genealogy is then understood as tracing Jesus' physical lineage through Mary, establishing that Jesus is both legally and naturally connected to David. Matthew's genealogy contains another striking feature: the inclusion of four women—Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba. Their stories include immorality, foreign ancestry, and complicated family histories. Rather than presenting Israel's history as a story of flawless people and glorious kings, Matthew exposes the sin running throughout the royal lineage. Matthew also organizes the genealogy into three groups of fourteen generations. The first period, from Abraham to David, can be characterized by impurity; the second, from David to the Babylonian deportation, by idolatry; and the final period, from the deportation to Christ, by obscurity and bondage. Israel's history reveals a people who repeatedly failed to live out God's purposes and ultimately needed salvation from their sins. The sermon then turns the genealogy toward the listener. Beneath the appearance of successful and respectable lives can lie the same patterns of impurity, idolatry, and bondage. People may appear successful on the outside while privately struggling with sin, pursuing status, worshiping possessions or accomplishments, and eventually becoming controlled by the very things they once thought they controlled. Without Jesus Christ, humanity follows a similar trajectory to Israel. Jesus came not merely to be acknowledged as Savior but to reign as King. True transformation occurs when a person receives Christ, bows to His authority, and allows Him to take the throne of his or her life. The invitation of Jesus is not simply to wear the label of Christian but to become a child of God through genuine surrender and faith. The episode concludes with the picture of believers being brought into Christ's royal family. Those who truly receive Jesus become heirs and offspring of Abraham, part of His royal lineage, and children of the living God. The genealogy that begins Matthew's Gospel ultimately becomes an invitation: Jesus is the King—receive Him, submit to Him, and let Him reign.   Episode Outline 1. Why Matthew Begins With a Genealogy Genealogy carried enormous significance in Jewish culture. Ancestry could determine priesthood, covenant privileges, and royal legitimacy. Matthew uses Jesus' genealogy to establish His identity as King. 2. Jesus' Royal Credentials Jesus is the Son of Abraham and Son of David. The Davidic covenant promised an enduring throne. Jesus is presented as the legitimate Messianic King. 3. Matthew and Luke's Genealogies Matthew emphasizes the royal line through Solomon. Luke traces another branch of David's family through Nathan. Together they demonstrate Jesus' legal and physical connection to David. The curse of Jeconiah makes Jesus' virgin birth and adoption especially significant. 4. The Unexpected People in Jesus' Lineage Matthew includes Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba. Their stories expose immorality, foreign ancestry, and human failure. The genealogy challenges pride in Israel's supposedly glorious heritage. 5. Israel's Threefold Pattern Abraham to David — Impurity David to the Deportation — Idolatry Deportation to Christ — Obscurity and Bondage Israel's history demonstrates its need for salvation from sin. 6. Our Own Spiritual Genealogy Outward success can hide inward sin. Impurity can lead to idolatry and eventually bondage. Without Christ, people can become controlled by the things they once sought to control. 7. Jesus Came to Be King Jesus offers more than forgiveness or religious identification. Receiving Christ means embracing His authority. Genuine Christianity produces a changed lifestyle, not merely Christian rhetoric. 8. The Invitation of Royalty Those who receive Christ become children of God. Believers become heirs and offspring of Abraham. The King who fulfills David's promise invites us to let Him reign in our lives. Key Takeaways The genealogy establishes Jesus' royal credentials. Matthew identifies Him as the Son of David and Son of Abraham. Jesus is uniquely qualified to be the promised King. His legal and physical connections to David establish His claim to the throne. Israel's pedigree did not make them righteous. Ancestral privilege became distorted when people relied on heritage rather than faithful obedience. The genealogy exposes Israel's sin. Impurity, idolatry, and bondage characterize much of Israel's history. The genealogy includes unlikely people. Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba demonstrate that God's purposes operate through imperfect and unexpected people. Respectability can hide spiritual bondage. A life that looks successful outwardly may contain hidden impurity, misplaced worship, and growing enslavement. Jesus came to restore and liberate. He came to save His people from their sins and bring them into genuine freedom. Christianity is more than acknowledgment. Receiving Christ means embracing Him, submitting to Him, and recognizing His authority. Jesus must occupy the throne. A transformed Christian life comes when Christ becomes King rather than simply being an acknowledged religious figure. Believers become part of God's royal family. Those who receive Christ become children of God and heirs of the promises associated with Abraham and David. Scripture References Matthew 1:1–17 — Jesus' genealogy establishes His Davidic and Abrahamic heritage. Genesis 12:1–3 — God's promise to Abraham includes blessing the nations. 2 Samuel 7:12–16 — God promises David an enduring throne. Jeremiah 22:24–30 — Jeconiah's descendants are excluded from David's throne. Matthew 1:16, 18–25 — Joseph's legal relationship to Jesus and the virgin birth. Luke 3:23–38 — Jesus' lineage traces back through David to Adam. Matthew 3:7–10 — John the Baptist warns against relying on ancestry without repentance. John 8:37–44 — Jesus teaches that true children of Abraham should reflect Abraham's deeds. John 1:12 — Those who receive Christ are given authority to become children of God. Galatians 3:7–9 — Those who have faith are identified as children of Abraham. 1 Peter 2:9 — Believers are described as a royal priesthood. Matthew 1:21 — Jesus comes to save His people from their sins. Recorded 1.2.83

    Jesus, Son of David

  6. Aug 31

    Jesus, Son of God

    Guided Question Do I truly know Jesus and experience His presence in my life, or am I simply trying to live by Christian rules without experiencing the new birth He came to give? Summary This episode explores Matthew 1:18–25 and the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. Dr. Robert Lewis emphasizes that Jesus’ birth is unique not simply because a baby was born, but because God Himself entered humanity. Matthew presents Jesus as both the Son of David, with a legitimate claim to the throne, and the divine Son of God, conceived by the Holy Spirit. The story begins with Mary and Joseph, whose response to God’s extraordinary plan demonstrates remarkable submission. Mary does not understand how God’s promise will be fulfilled, yet she responds, “Be it done to me according to thy word.” Joseph likewise obeys God despite the personal shame and potential consequences of taking Mary as his wife. Their lives demonstrate that God’s greatest works are often entrusted to people who are humble and willing to submit to His truth. Dr. Lewis then emphasizes the importance of believing the virgin birth as a literal work of the Holy Spirit. He argues that Christianity cannot be separated from biblical revelation: religion without revelation leaves people with nothing more than subjective beliefs and human imagination. The sermon then turns to the name Emmanuel—“God with us.” Jesus did not merely come to point people toward God or give them a better moral code. He came to make a relationship with God possible. He is not merely a teacher of truth; He is the truth, and He calls people not simply to follow His teachings but to receive Him. Finally, Dr. Lewis explains that the birth of Jesus points toward an even greater miracle: the new birth. Jesus was born so that people could be spiritually reborn. Christianity is therefore not merely about keeping rules, attending church, or proving ourselves worthy before God. It is about receiving Christ, being forgiven of sin, and experiencing His presence within us. The message closes with a personal invitation to respond to Christ. Just as Mary and Joseph submitted themselves to God's Word without fully understanding what He was doing, listeners are challenged to surrender themselves to Christ, receive Him, and experience the new life He came to give. Outline 1. The Uniqueness of Jesus’ Birth Matthew introduces Jesus’ birth as an extraordinary beginning. Jesus is both the Son of David and the divine Son of God. His conception by the Holy Spirit makes His birth unlike any other. 2. Mary and Joseph: Submission to God Mary faces an impossible and potentially shameful situation. She responds with trust and submission to God's Word. Joseph obeys despite the personal cost and public consequences. Their humility makes them examples of responsive faith. 3. The Virgin Birth and Biblical Revelation Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit. The virgin birth is presented as a foundational truth of Christianity. Faith must be grounded in God's revelation rather than personal preference or imagination. 4. Jesus Came to Save from Sin Israel expected the Messiah to deliver them from Roman oppression. Jesus came to address the deeper problem: humanity's bondage to sin. True deliverance begins when we stop focusing on everyone else's problems and allow Christ to deal with our own sin. 5. Emmanuel: God With Us Isaiah's prophecy points forward to Jesus. Jesus is the greater fulfillment of “Emmanuel.” He does not merely point the way to God—He makes relationship with God possible. 6. The Greater Miracle: The New Birth Jesus' birth prepares the way for our spiritual rebirth. Christianity is more than morality, religious activity, or following rules. We must receive Christ and experience His indwelling presence. Jesus was born so that we might be born again. Key Takeaways God works through humble people who are willing to submit to His Word. Faith does not require us to understand everything before we obey. Jesus came to deliver us from sin, not merely from difficult circumstances. Jesus is Emmanuel—God with us. Christianity is about a relationship with Christ, not merely religious rules or moral behavior. The miracle of Jesus' birth points to the greater miracle of the new birth. Receiving Christ means surrendering ourselves to Him and trusting His promise to transform our lives. Scripture References Matthew 1:18–25 — Jesus is conceived by the Holy Spirit and born to Mary. Luke 1:26–38 — Mary receives God's announcement and submits to His Word. Isaiah 7:10–16 — The sign of Emmanuel points to a greater future fulfillment. Philippians 2:5–8 — Christ humbles Himself and takes on human form. Hebrews 1:1–3 — God speaks fully through His Son. John 3:1–8 — Jesus teaches the necessity of being born again. Matthew 1:21 — Jesus comes to save His people from their sins. Matthew 1:23 — Jesus is Emmanuel, “God with us.” Recorded 12.19.82

    Jesus, Son of God

  7. Aug 24

    Clearing Our Vision

    Guided Question Have you lost sight of Jesus’ vision for your life because of busyness, comfort, fear, or distractions—and what would it look like to renew your commitment to making disciples where God has placed you? Summary This episode explores the vision that gives spiritual gifts their purpose: Jesus’ call to “go and make disciples of all the nations.” Spiritual gifts are not given simply for activity within the church; they are given so God can equip His people to participate in His mission of transforming lives. Jesus’ Great Commission is presented as a large, aggressive, specific, and promised vision. His followers are called to go, make disciples, and radically influence the lives of others, with the assurance that Christ remains with them. Yet the church can easily lose that vision. Relational overload, the frantic pace of life, personal comfort, excessive church programs, and fear of rejection or ridicule can cause believers to become busy without being fruitful. Instead of taking the gospel into the world, Christians can become absorbed in activities that make them comfortable while losing sight of their calling. The episode then returns to Jesus’ original call to Peter, Andrew, James, and John: “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Their response reveals the excitement of discovering a higher purpose, one that answers the deep restlessness of the human soul. But the disciples later returned to fishing, illustrating how easily a God-given vision can fade when its consequences become uncomfortable. Through the story in Luke 5, Jesus renews that vision before the disciples. The question becomes personal: Will we remain with what is familiar and comfortable, or will we embrace Christ’s call to participate in changing lives? The episode challenges believers to recover the enthusiasm and purpose of following Jesus and to take His vision into their families, workplaces, communities, and world. Outline The Vision Behind Spiritual Gifts Spiritual gifts are given for ministry and mission. Their purpose becomes clear through Jesus’ vision for His followers. The Great Commission Jesus calls His disciples to go and make disciples. The vision is worldwide, active, specific, and accompanied by His presence. Why the Church Loses Its Vision Relational overload and a hurried pace of life. Comfort and the desire for safety. Church programs that entertain rather than equip. Fear of rejection, ridicule, and isolation. The Birth of the Vision Jesus calls ordinary fishermen to follow Him. “Fishers of men” gives them a higher purpose beyond their occupation. The Death of the Vision The disciples eventually return to fishing. Fear and familiarity can weaken enthusiasm for Christ’s mission. Renewing the Vision Jesus again places the choice before His disciples. Believers are challenged to move beyond comfort and participate in changing lives for Christ. Key Takeaways Spiritual Gifts Have a Purpose: God equips believers so they can participate in His work of reaching and transforming people. The Vision Is Bigger Than the Church: Jesus calls His followers to take the gospel into the world rather than simply creating comfortable environments within the church. Busyness Can Replace Mission: A crowded schedule can leave us active without actually investing deeply in people or making disciples. Comfort Can Kill Vision: Following Christ often requires moving beyond what is safe, familiar, and convenient. Fear Can Silence Our Calling: Fear of rejection, ridicule, or isolation can cause believers to retreat from the mission Jesus has given them. Jesus Offers a Higher Calling: Like the fishermen who left their nets, Christians are invited to find a purpose that goes beyond career, possessions, and worldly success. Vision Must Be Renewed: Even those who have enthusiastically followed Christ can lose sight of their calling. Jesus continually calls His followers back to His mission. The Mission Is Personal: The call to make disciples applies not only to pastors or church leaders but to every believer—in the family, workplace, community, and wider world. Scripture References Matthew 28:18–20 — Jesus commissions His followers to make disciples of all nations. Mark 1:14–20 — Jesus calls the fishermen to follow Him and become fishers of men. Luke 5:1–11 — Jesus renews His call to the disciples and redirects them toward His mission. 1 Corinthians 12–14 — Spiritual gifts are given for ministry within the body of Christ. Recorded 11.2.82

    Clearing Our Vision

  8. Aug 17

    Pocketbook Principles of Giving

    Guided Question Does the way you use your time, talents, and money reflect an eternal perspective, or are you still living as though this life is all there is? Summary In this concluding message from 1 Corinthians, Dr. Robert Lewis examines the Corinthian church and finds a striking resemblance to the modern church. The Corinthians were athletic-minded, pleasure-loving, self-focused, biblically immature, and often struggled to bring their faith into everyday life. Their greatest problem was not a lack of teaching but a failure to allow biblical truth to shape how they actually lived. Turning to 1 Corinthians 16:1–4, Lewis addresses Paul's instructions concerning the collection for struggling believers in Jerusalem. He uses this passage to show that money and faith are intimately connected: how we handle our resources can reveal the practical reality of our faith. The resurrection in chapter 15 provides the foundation. Because this life is not all there is, Christians should invest their time, energy, and resources in things that have eternal significance—especially people. Lewis identifies five principles of Christian giving. Giving should flow from a conviction about the resurrection, be practiced personally by every Christian, be planned rather than pressured, be proportionate to what God has provided, and be handled with accountability and integrity. Ultimately, the message challenges believers not to give out of guilt, manipulation, or emotional pressure, but out of a genuine relationship with God and the leading of the Holy Spirit. A living church will cost its people something—time, talents, spiritual gifts, and earthly resources—but those sacrifices become meaningful when they are made with an eternal perspective. Outline The Corinthian Church: A Mirror for Today Worldly, self-focused, spiritually immature, and disconnected from practical faith. The Jerusalem Church in Need Persecution, loss of property and employment, and famine created severe hardship. The Resurrection and Giving The resurrection changes our perspective on life, possessions, and eternal priorities. Five Principles of Christian Giving Giving flows from the resurrection. Giving is the personal practice of every Christian. Giving should be planned, not pressured. Giving should be proportionate to what God provides. Giving should include accountability and integrity. Faith and Money in the Real World Christian giving should flow from the Holy Spirit rather than guilt, manipulation, or emotional pressure. The Cost of a Living Church A healthy, effective church requires the investment of its people's time, talents, spiritual gifts, and resources. An Invitation to New Life in Christ Salvation begins with receiving what God has given through Jesus Christ, followed by a commitment to grow in faith. Key Takeaways The Corinthian Church Is a Mirror for Today Spiritual immaturity can exist even where excellent biblical teaching is available. Faith must move from knowledge into everyday life. The Resurrection Changes How We Live Because this life is not all there is, believers should invest their resources in what has eternal value rather than living only for present pleasures. Giving Is an Expression of Faith Our use of money can reveal whether our faith is genuinely influencing our practical lives. Giving Is for Every Christian Paul says, "each one of you," making giving a personal responsibility rather than something reserved for a particular group. Giving Should Be Planned, Not Pressured Biblical giving is intended to become a deliberate, consistent practice rather than a response to emotional manipulation or guilt. Giving Should Be Proportionate Christians are called to give according to how God has provided, with the Holy Spirit guiding their decisions rather than relying merely on an external percentage. Giving Requires Accountability Paul establishes safeguards for the Jerusalem offering, demonstrating that Christian stewardship should be transparent and above reproach. A Living Church Will Cost Something If the church is going to be effective in the real world, its people must be willing to invest their time, talents, spiritual gifts, and resources. Scripture References 1 Corinthians 15:32, 58 — The resurrection gives life an eternal perspective. 1 Corinthians 16:1–4 — Giving for believers in need should be personal, planned, proportionate, and accountable. Acts 2 — The Jerusalem church experienced remarkable growth after Pentecost. Hebrews — Persecuted believers were encouraged to remain faithful despite loss and hardship. 2 Corinthians 9 — The Corinthians' commitment to help Jerusalem required continued follow-through. John 16:13 — The Holy Spirit guides believers into truth. Ephesians 1:3 — God has blessed believers with every spiritual blessing in Christ. Recorded 11.28.82

    Pocketbook Principles of Giving
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About

Sermon archives of Dr. Robert Lewis from his time as the Teaching Pastor and Directional Leader at Fellowship Bible Church in Little Rock, Arkansas. Robert is the founder of the well known ”Men’s Fraternity” series and ”BetterMan” ministry. He has authored several notable books including ”Raising a Modern-Day Knight”, ”The Church of Irresistible Influence”, and ”Rocking the Roles: Building a Win-Win Marriage”.

Information

  • Creator
    Robert Lewis
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    318
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2021 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Robert Lewis Sermons

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