Middletown Baptist Church

Middletown Baptist Church
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Middletown Baptist Church

At our church, our mission is to love God and others, grow closer to God, connect with people, and serve God and others. We believe that by following these principles, we can fulfill our purpose and create a community that reflects the love and compassion of Jesus Christ. We strive to love God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. We seek to grow in our understanding and relationship with God through prayer, worship, Bible study, and discipleship, and to encourage one another to do the same. We recognize the importance of community and strive to connect with those around us. We seek to create a welcoming and loving environment where we can grow in the Lord together. Finally, we believe that serving God and others is a natural expression of our love for Him. We seek to use our gifts, talents, and resources to meet the needs of our community and to share the love and hope of Jesus Christ with those around us. Our mission is to love, grow, connect, and serve.

  1. 2D AGO

    The Nature of Evil: A Biblical Perspective on Satan

    The podcast episode dedicated to the Wednesday Evening Service at Middletown Baptist Church on April 2, 2025, delves into a profound exploration of the nature and tactics of Satan, as presented by Pastor Josh Massaro. The discourse initiates with a grounding in Biblical scripture, emphasizing the necessity of vigilance against one's adversary, the devil. Pastor Massaro elucidates the characteristics of Satan, delineating him as a tempter who seeks to undermine the faithful through various means of enticement. The discussion evolves to incorporate a critical examination of temptation itself, distinguishing between the act of being tempted and the act of sinning. This distinction is pivotal, as the pastor argues that temptation is not inherently sinful but rather a universal experience that all individuals encounter, including Jesus Christ, who was tempted yet remained sinless. The episode aims to prepare listeners for the realities of spiritual warfare, equipping them with scriptural insights to combat temptation effectively. Throughout the episode, Pastor Massaro references key Biblical texts, including passages from Peter and James, which underscore the importance of understanding the dynamics of temptation and sin. He presents a comprehensive framework, detailing the three primary sources of temptation: Satan, the world, and our own flesh. By analyzing the narrative of Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, the pastor illustrates how Christ responded to Satan's challenges with the authority of scripture, thereby serving as a model for believers. The episode culminates in an exhortation for listeners to engage with scripture actively, thereby fortifying their spiritual defenses against the inevitable trials they will face in their walk of faith. In summary, this episode serves as a clarion call for believers to acknowledge the reality of spiritual adversaries and the necessity of being grounded in the Word of God. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining an awareness of the tactics employed by Satan and encourages a proactive approach to spiritual growth and resilience. As listeners engage with this sermon, they are reminded that while temptation is a common experience, it is through reliance on God and His Word that they can attain victory over sin and temptation. Takeaways: In the podcast, Pastor Josh emphasizes the necessity of understanding who Satan is as our adversary, urging listeners to be vigilant and aware of his tactics. He articulates that temptation, while a common human experience, is not inherently sinful; rather, it is our response to temptation that defines our moral standing. The pastor underscores the importance of Scripture as a vital tool in combating temptation, highlighting how Jesus utilized biblical passages during his own trials. Pastor Josh discusses the three primary avenues through which temptation manifests: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, urging listeners to recognize these patterns. Throughout the episode, there is a strong emphasis on personal accountability, reminding us that we cannot blame external forces for our sins, but must take responsibility for our actions. Finally, he reassures the congregation that God provides a way to escape temptation, encouraging believers to rely on divine strength and the support of their faith community. Thank you for joining our podcast. Visit our website at https://middletownbaptistchurch.org/ Subscribe to our YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@middletownbaptistchurchde5091 Follow us on Facebook a href="https://www.facebook.com/MBCDelaware" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    46 min
  2. Mercy Defined: Distinguishing Between Grace and Mercy

    4D AGO

    Mercy Defined: Distinguishing Between Grace and Mercy

    The salient focus of this discourse is the profound concept of mercy, a fundamental attribute of God that is intricately linked to His love and compassion. Throughout this episode, I elucidate the distinction between mercy and grace, emphasizing that while both are divine gifts, mercy specifically pertains to the withholding of deserved punishment. I explore biblical instances where God’s mercy is manifest, particularly in the context of salvation, thereby underscoring its critical role in the believer’s life. Furthermore, I urge us to reflect on our call to extend mercy to others, mirroring the divine mercy we have received. Ultimately, this examination of mercy serves as both an encouragement and a challenge to embody compassion and kindness in our interactions with those who are in need. Takeaways: The foundational concept of mercy within the biblical framework is fundamentally linked to God's compassionate withholding of deserved punishment. Mercy is distinctly characterized as God's grace in action, which is evident in the gift of salvation that we receive through faith. As believers, we are called to extend mercy to others, emulating the mercy that God has graciously bestowed upon us. Understanding and appreciating God's mercy in our lives compels us to demonstrate compassion towards those in need and those who are suffering. The act of mercy is not merely an absence of judgment; it is an active expression of love and kindness towards others. Scriptural references underscore the richness of God's mercy, highlighting that His compassion is renewed each day, motivating us to share that mercy with the world. Thank you for joining our podcast. Visit our website at https://middletownbaptistchurch.org/ Subscribe to our YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@middletownbaptistchurchde5091 Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MBCDelaware This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

    14 min

  3. 6D AGO

    The Call to Compassion: Understanding Paul's Message

    The sermon delivered by Pastor Josh Massaro on March 30, 2025, at the Middletown Baptist Church presents an intricate examination of the Apostle Paul's compassion for the Corinthian church, specifically as elucidated in 2 Corinthians 13. Pastor Massaro articulates that true compassion is characterized by the agape love that is selfless and sacrificial, a theme he emphasizes as central to Christian living. He draws parallels between Paul's experiences and the modern Christian's call to embody such compassion, particularly in the context of confronting sin and fostering spiritual growth within the church community. The pastor encourages listeners to engage in self-examination and personal reflection, urging them to evaluate their faith's authenticity by consulting Scripture, which he asserts is the ultimate source of truth. Through this exploration, he invites the congregation to not only reflect on their personal spiritual journeys but also to commit to uplifting others through edification and truth-based exhortation, thereby reinforcing the communal aspect of Christian faith. Pastor Massaro delves deeper into the themes of edification and exhortation, distinguishing between the two as pivotal elements in cultivating a healthy church environment. He elucidates that edification involves building each other up in Christ, which necessitates a genuine commitment to speaking truthfully and lovingly about one another, avoiding gossip and slander. Exhortation, on the other hand, is presented as a challenge to spur fellow believers towards greater conformity to Christ's likeness, a process which may require confronting uncomfortable truths. The pastor frames these concepts within the biblical narrative, asserting that Paul's letters serve as a guide for contemporary Christians on how to navigate the complexities of faith, community, and accountability. Ultimately, the message underscores the importance of mutual support, rooted in love and guided by the principles found in Scripture, as essential for the growth and maturity of the church. In conclusion, the sermon culminates in a heartfelt call to action, urging the congregation to introspectively assess their faith and relationship with Christ. Pastor Massaro emphasizes that faith should not merely be a passive acknowledgment but an active, transformative force in their lives. He invites the listeners to examine their motivations and actions, reinforcing the notion that true faith in Christ is evidenced by how one lives and interacts with others. This call to self-examination is framed as a pathway to spiritual authenticity, encouraging individuals to seek a deeper connection with God through prayer and the study of His Word. The pastor's exhortation is both a challenge and a comfort, as he reassures the congregation that through Christ, they have the power to change and grow, thereby fulfilling their calling as members of the body of Christ. Takeaways: Pastor Josh Massaro emphasizes the importance of self-examination in one’s spiritual life, urging us to assess our faith and motivations in Christ. The episode discusses Paul's compassion for the church at Corinth and how it exemplifies the call for Christians to show selfless love to others. Compassion not only involves love but also extends to edification, which is the process of building others up in their faith and relationship with Christ. Paul's message serves as a reminder that true faith requires action, and we must be doers of the Word, not merely hearers, to truly embody our beliefs. Links referenced in this episode: middletownbaptistchurch.orgfacebook.coma href="https://youtube.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    57 min

  4. MAR 28

    Understanding the Adversary: A Biblical Perspective on Our Enemy

    Middletown Baptist Church Podcast, hosted by Pastor Josh Massaro, embarks on an in-depth examination of a topic often shunned within church discussions: the identity and influence of the enemy, specifically Satan. This discourse unravels the complexities surrounding the adversarial role of Satan, intertwining scriptural references with practical implications for believers. Pastor Josh emphatically asserts that while Satan is indeed a formidable foe, he is not the sole source of temptation or sin in the lives of individuals. The pastor elucidates that temptation arises not only from the devil but also from the world and our very own flesh. Through a careful dissection of biblical texts such as 1 Peter 5:8 and 2 Corinthians 4:4, the episode endeavors to establish a foundational understanding of who Satan is, his tactics, and the necessity for believers to remain vigilant and sober-minded in their spiritual walk. This episode serves to enlighten the listeners on the importance of recognizing the multifaceted nature of temptation and the significance of grounding oneself in the Word of God to resist the subtle deceptions of the enemy. Takeaways: Pastor Josh discusses the importance of understanding who the enemy is according to biblical teachings. The podcast emphasizes that not all personal shortcomings can be attributed to Satan's influence or actions. Listeners are reminded that several sources of temptation exist, including personal desires, the world, and the devil. The speaker clarifies that while Satan is a formidable adversary, he is ultimately a defeated foe through Christ's victory. The discussion encourages believers to remain vigilant and sober-minded in their spiritual walk against the enemy's tactics. The episode highlights the significance of grounding one's understanding of spiritual warfare in scripture rather than in cultural misconceptions. Thank you for joining our podcast. Visit our website at https://middletownbaptistchurch.org/ Subscribe to our YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@middletownbaptistchurchde5091 Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MBCDelaware This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

    47 min
  5. What Does It Mean to Confess? Insights from Scripture

    MAR 26

    What Does It Mean to Confess? Insights from Scripture

    The salient point of this discourse revolves around the profound significance of the act of confession, particularly in the context of one's relationship with God. Pastor Josh Massaro elucidates the biblical concept of confessing sins, emphasizing that this act is not merely a singular occurrence but rather an essential aspect of a believer's ongoing spiritual journey. He delineates between positional forgiveness, which is granted at the moment of salvation, and relational forgiveness, which pertains to the restoration of fellowship with God following acts of disobedience. Drawing upon 1 John 1:9, the pastor asserts that genuine confession entails acknowledging one's sins as God perceives them and turning away from them in repentance. This vital practice not only fosters a closer walk with God but also safeguards the believer from the detrimental effects of unrepentant sin on their spiritual vitality and witness. Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of confessing sins directly to God, as outlined in Scripture. Confession is not merely a one-time event, but a continual practice for believers to maintain fellowship with God. Understanding the concept of positional versus relational forgiveness is crucial for spiritual growth and restoration. 1 John 1:9 highlights the faithfulness and justice of God in forgiving sins, reinforcing the necessity of confession. The speaker illustrates that relational forgiveness, akin to a father-son relationship, is vital for maintaining a close walk with God. The podcast encourages believers to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's conviction regarding sin to restore joy in their salvation. Thank you for joining our podcast. Visit our website at https://middletownbaptistchurch.org/ Subscribe to our YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@middletownbaptistchurchde5091 Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MBCDelaware This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

    14 min

  6. MAR 25

    Paul's Ministry: A Blueprint for Authentic Faith

    The sermon delivered by Pastor Josh Massaro at the Sunday Evening service of Middletown Baptist Church on March 23, 2025, offers profound insights into the authenticity of faith and the essential nature of the church. The discourse begins with an exploration of Paul's ministry in Ephesus, wherein he encounters resistance from the Jewish community, leading to a pivotal shift towards the Gentiles. This transition underscores the universal applicability of the Gospel message, emphasizing the necessity of preaching the truth of Jesus Christ. Pastor Massaro articulates the concept of an 'authentic church' as one that creates disciples and fosters genuine relationships with Christ, rather than merely engaging in religious rituals or traditions. He delineates the distinction between true faith and counterfeit expressions of faith, cautioning against the prevalence of individuals who superficially mimic the acts of the faithful without possessing a genuine connection to the Savior. As the sermon unfolds, the pastor highlights the miraculous acts performed by Paul, which serve to validate his ministry, yet he warns that such manifestations were unique to the apostolic era. He stresses the importance of understanding the context of scripture and the necessity of a personal relationship with Jesus as the foundation of authentic Christian living. Takeaways: Pastor Josh Massaro emphasizes the necessity of authentic faith, which is rooted in a personal relationship with Christ. The podcast highlights the importance of distinguishing between genuine and counterfeit expressions of faith in modern church practices. Listeners are reminded that the power of God is accessed through a relationship with Jesus, not through mere religious rituals or methodologies. The discussion explores the significance of preaching the true Gospel of Jesus, countering the prevalence of distorted teachings in contemporary Christianity. The episode illustrates the transformative impact of belief, leading to confession and a commitment to follow Christ's teachings wholeheartedly. Pastor Massaro stresses that true growth in the church is characterized by a deepening understanding of Scripture and a genuine pursuit of spiritual maturity. Thank you for joining our podcast. Visit our website at https://middletownbaptistchurch.org/ Subscribe to our YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@middletownbaptistchurchde5091 Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MBCDelaware This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

    48 min
  7. Sunday Preview: Compassion in Second Corinthians

    MAR 22

    Sunday Preview: Compassion in Second Corinthians

    The forthcoming service at Middletown Baptist Church, scheduled for March 23, 2025, promises to delve deeply into the epistle of Second Corinthians, specifically chapter 12. Pastor Josh Massaro will illuminate the profound themes of compassionate concern underscored by the Apostle Paul towards the congregation in Corinth. This exploration will extend beyond mere acknowledgment of concerns; it will embody a heartfelt desire for spiritual edification and growth among the faithful. Pastor Massaro's discourse will elucidate how Paul exemplifies compassion through various modalities, including selfless service, truthful exposition of scripture, and the vital practice of discipleship. Each of these elements will be examined to unveil the transformative power of compassion within the Christian community, offering attendees a rich tapestry of insights to apply in their own lives. Furthermore, the sermon will engage the congregation to reflect on their own capacity for compassion, encouraging a collective journey towards fostering an environment where love and support flourish among the members of the church. The anticipation builds as attendees are invited to participate in this communal experience, where they will gain not only knowledge but also practical applications of how to embody compassionate concern in their daily interactions. Whether present in person or joining through the live stream, the message promises to resonate deeply, inspiring believers to cultivate a spirit of caring and growth, much like that which Paul demonstrated to the Corinthian church. Takeaways: On March 23rd, we will delve into the profound themes presented in Second Corinthians chapter 12. Pastor Josh will emphasize Paul's compassionate concern for the spiritual growth of the Corinthian church. The sermon will explore how we can embody compassion for others within the household of faith. Attendees can expect to learn practical ways to demonstrate compassion through selfless service and truthful teaching. We are invited to engage in self-reflection regarding our own compassion towards those around us. The service will be accessible both in-person and through live streaming on various platforms. Thank you for joining our podcast. Visit our website at https://middletownbaptistchurch.org/ Subscribe to our YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@middletownbaptistchurchde5091 Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MBCDelaware This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

    2 min

  8. MAR 21

    Forgiveness and Forbearance: A Christian Approach

    Pastor Josh Massaro's sermon at the Middletown Baptist Church's Wednesday evening service serves as a profound exploration into the essential Christian principle of forgiveness. The discourse opens with a critical examination of what constitutes true forgiveness, steering clear of the simplistic notion of 'forgive and forget.' Instead, the pastor emphasizes that authentic forgiveness is rooted in the acknowledgment of sin and the subsequent act of repentance from the offending party, drawing upon biblical references, particularly from Matthew 18. This scriptural foundation delineates the necessity of a relational dynamic in forgiveness, which is not merely about personal grievances but is deeply intertwined with the redemptive narrative presented in the Gospel. Continuing, Pastor Josh articulates the theological implications of forgiveness as dictated by Ephesians 4:32, where he posits that our ability to forgive is a direct reflection of the forgiveness bestowed upon us by God through Christ. This vital connection underscores the transformative nature of grace in the believer's life. The sermon delves into the emotional and spiritual challenges individuals face when grappling with the concept of forgiveness, particularly in the context of severe transgressions, and highlights the importance of seeking divine assistance to overcome these hurdles. The pastor encourages the congregation to embrace forgiveness as a means of healing and restoration, both for themselves and for those who have wronged them. In closing, Pastor Josh Massaro's sermon provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and practicing forgiveness within the Christian faith, urging believers to embody the grace they have received and to cultivate a spirit of reconciliation in their relationships, thus fostering a community reflective of Christ's love and mercy. Takeaways: The essence of true forgiveness is contingent upon recognizing and addressing the sin committed against us. Biblical forgiveness requires a repentant heart from the offending party before absolution can be granted. Understanding God's act of forgiveness towards us empowers us to extend grace to others as we navigate our relationships. Forgiveness is not merely a passive act; it necessitates an active engagement in restoration and reconciliation with those who have wronged us. Thank you for joining our podcast. Visit our website at https://middletownbaptistchurch.org/ Subscribe to our YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@middletownbaptistchurchde5091 Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MBCDelaware This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

    48 min
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    5
    out of 5
    7 Ratings

    About

    At our church, our mission is to love God and others, grow closer to God, connect with people, and serve God and others. We believe that by following these principles, we can fulfill our purpose and create a community that reflects the love and compassion of Jesus Christ. We strive to love God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. We seek to grow in our understanding and relationship with God through prayer, worship, Bible study, and discipleship, and to encourage one another to do the same. We recognize the importance of community and strive to connect with those around us. We seek to create a welcoming and loving environment where we can grow in the Lord together. Finally, we believe that serving God and others is a natural expression of our love for Him. We seek to use our gifts, talents, and resources to meet the needs of our community and to share the love and hope of Jesus Christ with those around us. Our mission is to love, grow, connect, and serve.

    Information

    • Creator
      Middletown Baptist Church
    • Years Active
      2024 - 2025
    • Episodes
      179
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © Copyright 2025 Middletown Baptist Church
    • Show Website
      Middletown Baptist Church

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