Ninth Avenue Ninth Avenue Church

In this inspiring sermon from the "Questions Jesus Asked" series, we explore Jesus' pivotal role in our spiritual life, using scriptures and key Biblical accounts like the story of Mary at the tomb, to underscore the profound implications of our relationship with Him. Join us as we contemplate the profound questions posed by Him, leading us to understand our religious paths in deeper, more intimate manners.
We dive into the theological reflections on Mary's relationship with Jesus and her reactions to His death, despite deep sorrow, and the inadvertent sharing of the news of His resurrection. The discussion prompts a profound question, "Who is Jesus to you," and how your interactions with Him shape your life during times of joy, crisis, or introspection.
The journey continues with Peter and John's experiences of Jesus's resurrection, bringing out the monumental change their personal encounters with Jesus brought about. The ability to share His word with the world brings forward the inspiring message of how our personal experiences with Jesus can deepen our faith and serve His word.
Underscoring Mary Magdalene's transformation at Jesus's tomb, this sermon takes the audience through her grief and her eventual acceptance of the resurrection. We explore her inability to initially recognize Jesus in her presence, her eventual recognition, and how the interaction dramatically changed her life. We invite each listener to grasp the potential transformative shift a personal encounter with Jesus can bring into their lives.

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Please join us in person at the Ninth Avenue Church, located in Haleyville, Alabama.
You are also invited to join us through social media: Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ninthavenuechurch) Follow us on X (https://twitter.com/ninthavechurch) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ninthavenuechurch)Follow us on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@ninthavenuechurch)
The song "The Ode to Joy" is used pursuant to a license issued by Envato Elements.

Anchored on the theme of "Family First Sunday," a cherished tradition initiated at the Ninth Avenue Church, Matthew Balentine's sermon emphasizes the significance of family and children within the church community.
Listen to the passionate sermon highlighting the blessings associated with parenthood and the importance of turning to God for every concern, achievement, and challenge. Matthew further reinforces the notion of unity within the church community referenced through a heartfelt prayer for a former member, who is in a critical battle with cancer.
Dig into an impactful biblical account revolving around the story of Hannah and Samuel from 1 Samuel. The narrative powerfully illustrates that children, like God's love for us, are blessings born out of love. In the end, every parent is called upon to foster God's love in their children from an early age.
In this enlightening sermon, discover the significance of making God the cornerstone of our parenting journey. Uncover the connection between fulfilling God's purpose in our lives and our roles as parents. Remember, parenting is not just about providing and protecting, but more importantly, guiding our children towards God's purpose.
Explore the influence of creating a spiritual environment at home, which functions as a 'little temple.' Understand how such exposure profoundly weaves spirituality into your child's life fabric. Likewise, learn the importance of instilling God's priorities into your child, paving the way for their spiritual development from an early age.
This sermon ends with an impassioned call to transform our homes into spiritual nurturing grounds and raise a generation committed to following Jesus. Remember, as parents, we are raising the future heroes of faith. Therefore let's pledge today to fulfill this divine role with commitment and grace!

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Please join us in person at the Ninth Avenue Church, located in Haleyville, Alabama.
You are also invited to join us through social media: Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ninthavenuechurch) Follow us on X (https://twitter.com/ninthavechurch) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ninthavenuechurch)Follow us on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@ninthavenuechurch)
The song "The Ode to Joy" is used pursuant to a license issued by Envato Elements.

In this inspiring sermon, we delve deep into the familiar narrative of Noah's Ark from Genesis 7. But this is not a tale for children about an ark and animals marching two-by-two. We explore the profound messages underpinning Noah's story about sin, grace, and steadfast obedience to God, making it a timeless tale relevant even today.
Even in a world riddled with wickedness and sin, Noah found favor in God's eyes. He stood as a beacon of hope, defining that the world hadn't completely succumbed to sin. Noah adhered unyieldingly to God's command, setting for us a remarkable example of faithfulness and dedication.
This sermon further paints a vivid picture of the Almighty's intent to cleanse the Earth with a great flood and how Noah meticulously followed His blueprint to build an ark that would save his family and all animal kinds. Moreover, Noah's constant preaching of righteousness during construction and attempts to convert the sinful around him sets an inspirational precedent for us in today's world.
Contrasting the experiences inside and outside the Ark with being in or out of the body of Christ, the episode uses Noah's Ark as a metaphor for divine salvation or judgment. With references to Jesus's words from Matthew chapter 7 about the paths of life and destruction, the episode emphasizes the dire outcomes of disobedience and the compelling need for preparedness for the Final Judgment.
This intense episode concludes with a powerful call to action, urging listeners to evaluate their spiritual standing and make conscious choices that reflect obedience and righteousness. It implores us to garner courage, just like Noah did, to uphold righteousness in a chaotic world, and spread God’s transformative message of love and salvation.

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Please join us in person at the Ninth Avenue Church, located in Haleyville, Alabama.
You are also invited to join us through social media: Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ninthavenuechurch) Follow us on X (https://twitter.com/ninthavechurch) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ninthavenuechurch)Follow us on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@ninthavenuechurch)
The song "The Ode to Joy" is used pursuant to a license issued by Envato Elements.

In this sermon, Matthew Balentine focuses on the Great Commission as outlined in Matthew 28:18-20, emphasizing the call to discipleship and the transformative journey it entails. He begins by highlighting Jesus' declaration of His authority over heaven and earth, which sets the stage for the command He gives to His followers. This authority is not wielded to demand subservience but to invite us into a relationship with Him--one that is based on desire rather than obligation.He then unpacks the command to "go and make disciples of all nations," clarifying that the essence of this directive is not merely about recruitment but about embodying discipleship in our own lives. The act of going is not a passive experience but an active, ongoing process that happens as we live our daily lives. It's about living out our faith in every context, not just within the walls of the church.Matthew stresses that being a disciple is not a higher tier of Christianity but the very essence of what it means to follow Christ. It involves a commitment to grow in our understanding of Jesus and to allow that growth to shape our actions. As we live out our discipleship, we naturally draw others to Christ, not through a sales pitch but through the authenticity of our transformed lives.He also addresses the concept of baptism, which is often a point of contention among Christians. He clarifies that baptism is not the end goal but the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith. It is both a pledge of a clear conscience towards God and an act of obedience that aligns us with Jesus' death and resurrection. Baptism is about Jesus, not about church affiliation.Furthermore, Matthew highlights the importance of teaching as a component of discipleship. It's not enough to baptize; we must also nurture and educate new believers in the ways of Christ. This is a collective responsibility, not just that of church leaders. He shares his appreciation for programs that teach our young people to become teachers themselves, emphasizing the value of learning and growing at every stage of life.Lastly, he offers comfort in the promise that Jesus is with us always. This assurance is not just for moments of ease but especially when we face challenges and growth opportunities. We are never alone in our mission; God is our constant companion.Key Takeaways:- Discipleship is an active, ongoing journey that doesn't end with baptism but begins there. It's a process of growing in knowledge and maturity in Christ and allowing that growth to influence our actions and interactions with others. As we live out our discipleship authentically, we naturally draw others to Christ.- Baptism is not merely a ritual or a church tradition; it is a profound act of unity with Christ. It signifies a pledge of a clear conscience towards God and aligns us with the transformative power of Jesus' resurrection. Our baptism is about our relationship with Jesus, not our church denomination.- Teaching is an integral part of the Great Commission. It's not just about imparting knowledge but about equipping others to continue the cycle of discipleship. We must invest in teaching others, including our children, to ensure the faith is lived and shared across generations.- Change, though often uncomfortable, is essential for church growth and fulfilling the Great Commission. Embracing change allows us to reach a diverse array of people and to be a church home for all nations, reflecting the inclusive heart of the gospel.- The presence of Jesus is a constant in our lives, offering comfort and strength in our mission. His promise to be with us always should embolden us to take on the challenges of discipleship, knowing we are never alone in our endeavors for the Kingdom.
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Please join us in person at the Ninth Avenue Church, located in Haleyville, Alabama.
You are also invited to join us through social media: Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ninthavenuechurch) Follow us on X (https://twitter

In this sermon, Matthew Balentine explores the profound relationship between our focus and our spiritual fulfillment, drawing inspiration from the life of David as depicted in Psalm 63. David, a man after God's own heart, faced a time of great personal crisis when he was forced into the wilderness by his own son Absalom. This period of wilderness wandering, though filled with loneliness and humiliation, became a pivotal moment for David to refocus his life on God.
David's thirst for God in a dry and weary land where there was no water serves as a powerful metaphor for our own spiritual longing. Just as David earnestly sought God from the beginning of his day, we too must prioritize our relationship with God, allowing it to be the positive beginning that sets the tone for our entire day. David's focus on God's love, which he deemed better than life itself, reminds us that when we allow the Lord to possess us, we will be obsessed with Him.
The love of Jesus must be our motivation in living out our Christian faith. It is this love that compels us to live, love, forgive, and share the message of Christ's love with others. When we embrace and allow God's love to consume our lives, we find ourselves compelled to act in ways that reflect His love.
David's use of the imagery of a full banquet to represent spiritual fulfillment is particularly poignant. In a time when a table laden with food was not the norm, such abundance symbolized the ultimate blessing. This imagery reminds us that God's love meets our every need, and in Him, we never go empty.
As we navigate the challenges of life, we may find ourselves in our own wilderness, feeling alone and thirsty for something more. It is in these moments that we must turn to God and recognize that His love is indeed better than life. By focusing on God's love and allowing it to possess us, we can find true fulfillment and joy.
Now, let us consider the key takeaways from the sermon:
1. The love of Jesus is the driving force behind our Christian walk. It is not enough to simply understand this love intellectually; we must feel it, embrace it, and let it consume us. When we do, it compels us to live a life that reflects the love of Christ to others.
2. Spiritual fulfillment is often symbolized by a full banquet, as seen in the Old Testament. This imagery is a reminder that God's blessings are abundant and that in Him, we find complete satisfaction. Our spiritual hunger can only be truly satiated by the richness of God's love.
3. Our daily focus on God sets the tone for our lives. Seeking God earnestly from the beginning of our day, as David did, ensures that we start with a positive outlook and a heart tuned to worship and gratitude.
4. In times of wilderness, when we feel alone and empty, it is crucial to remember that God's love is better than life itself. This truth should be the center point of our existence, guiding us to seek fulfillment in God above all else.
5. When we allow the Lord to possess us, our obsession becomes Him. This shift in focus transforms our desires, aligning them with God's will, and leading us to a life of purpose and joy in His presence.
In conclusion, let us strive to make God the focus of our lives, allowing His love to guide us through every wilderness and into the abundance of His blessings.
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Please join us in person at the Ninth Avenue Church, located in Haleyville, Alabama.
You are also invited to join us through social media: Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ninthavenuechurch) Follow us on X (https://twitter.com/ninthavechurch) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ninthavenuechurch)Follow us on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@ninthavenuechurch)
The song "The Ode to Joy" is used pursuant to a license issued by Envato Elements.

In this study, we explore the profound theme of "Lost and Found," delving into the parables of Jesus that illuminate God's relentless pursuit of those who are lost. We begin by examining the context in which Jesus shared these parables, noting the criticism he faced from the Pharisees and teachers of the law for welcoming sinners. This criticism reveals a dangerous self-righteousness that can blind us to our own need for grace. We must guard against this attitude and instead open our hearts to the transformative message of God's word.
The first parable we discuss is that of the lost sheep. The shepherd's relentless search for the one lost sheep, leaving the ninety-nine to find it, reflects the heart of God for each individual. This parable teaches us about God's unconditional love and care for us, even when we feel unlovable or insignificant. It also challenges us to reflect on our own lives, to ensure we are not wandering away from God's path.
We then consider the parable of the lost coin, which speaks to the diligent search of the woman for her lost coin. This parable emphasizes the value God places on each person, even those who may not realize they are lost. As the church, we are called to emulate this diligence in seeking out the lost and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with them.
The final parable, the prodigal son, illustrates the journey of rebellion and return. It shows us that walking away from God is a process, as is the journey back to Him. The father's compassionate response to his returning son demonstrates the depth of God's grace and forgiveness. This story encourages us to embrace those returning to God with open arms, without judgment, and to remember that our own return to God may stir up feelings of unworthiness, yet God's love remains steadfast.
Throughout these parables, we are reminded that God's mission is to seek and save the lost. We are all valuable to Him, and He rejoices over every sinner who repents. Our response should be one of gratitude and a commitment to join in this mission, sharing the love and salvation of Jesus with enthusiasm and urgency.
Key Takeaways:
- The parable of the lost sheep teaches us that God's love is individual and personal. He pursues each of us with a relentless love that does not give up, even when we stray. This love is a model for how we should care for one another, always seeking to bring the lost back into the fold.
- The diligent search for the lost coin represents the value God places on every soul. As followers of Christ, we must be willing to turn over every stone in our efforts to reach the lost. Our mission is not just to invite people to church, but to actively participate in their journey towards Christ.
- The journey of the prodigal son back to his father is a powerful picture of repentance and the transformative power of God's grace. It reminds us that no matter how far we have wandered, God is waiting to welcome us back with open arms. This grace should be the cornerstone of our interactions with those who are seeking to return to God.
- The father's response to his returning son teaches us about the nature of God's forgiveness. It is complete and without reservation. As we come back to God, we can trust that He will receive us as if we had never left, offering us a fresh start and a restored relationship with Him.
- Our role as Christians is not to judge but to be agents of grace, creating a welcoming environment that reflects the love of the Father. When someone decides to come home, we must be ready to help them let go of the world and fully embrace Jesus, amplifying the love and acceptance that God offers.
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Please join us in person at the Ninth Avenue Church, located in Haleyville, Alabama.
You are also invited to join us through social media: Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ninthavenuechurch) Follow us on X (https://twitter.com/ninthavechurch) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ninthavenuechurch)
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