discover grace

Matthew 24 begins the end of the world discourse on the Mount of Olives.  An overview of the return of Christ as King is given in answer to the disciple’s questions.  Then Christ gives two parables to emphasize that His disciples should be ready whether he returns sooner than expected or delays in coming.

Matthew 24-25:14
Pastor Matthew Johnson

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 44:02 — 20.2MB)

There are two types of individuals in this world, the wicked and the righteous.  In the coming of the end of the age, the angels of God will sort out the wicked to everlasting punishment, the justified to everlasting joy.

Matthew 13:47-50
Jerry Johnson

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:14 — 25.3MB)

A parable contrasting the perceived righteous religious with the penitent sinner.  This classic parable of the Publican and Pharisee reveals to us the components of a humble heart before God.

Luke 18:9-14
Pastor Matthew Johnson

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:45 — 26.7MB)

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The wise men sought to worship King Jesus.  Wise men still seek to worship the King today.  The gifts they brought remind us of the Person and work of Christ as Prophet, Priest, and King.

Matthew 2:1-18
Pastor Matthew Johnson

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A parable spoken by Christ whereby he teaches that individuals ought to always pray and not to lose heart because God will vindicate the righteous as the Judge of all the earth.

Luke 18:1-8
Pastor Matt Johnson

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 44:53 — 25.7MB)

Baptist-Our Description

by Pastor Matthew Johnson

Baptist-Our Description
The name our church wears is Grace Baptist Church. In a previous article, I wrote concerning the first word in our name. We are people amazed and motivated by the immeasurable grace (favor) of God in our lives. We recognize both the common grace poured out on all of humanity and most notably, the revealed grace found only through faith in God the Son, Jesus the Christ.
The second description of our assembly is important as well. We are a Baptist church, unashamed of our legacy, yet, independent in government and ministry. I am human by birth, a Christian by rebirth (salvation), and a Baptist by conviction. Being a Baptist is not synonymous with being a “Christian.” It is more important that one is assured of being “born again,” a Christ-follower, and one who fears and loves God; than it is to proudly wear the label of “Baptist.” However, the historic understanding of what a Baptist is and believes, describes the current goals and visions of Grace Baptist Church; it is because of this, that we call ourselves Baptist. In the next several articles, I will be describing what Baptists have historically believed and why, I believe, it is beneficial to call ourselves, “Baptists.”
The name Baptist is a relatively new term in light of human history, only a few hundred years old; however, the basic doctrines Baptist have traditionally fought for are as old as early church doctrine as revealed in the Scripture. Many different groups have believed in “baptistic” doctrine, and it is not necessary to try to trace Baptist practice through any one group of Christians. Nor as some assert, should we consider Jesus or John the first “Baptist.” It is my opinion that “tracing” religious lineage only produces foolishness and pride. I am grateful for all believers that have contributed to the advancement of the Gospel and the doctrine of salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone for the glory of God alone regardless of what their label was or is. The basic doctrines Baptist have historically held to are not unique to Baptists; however, when each of these doctrines is combined, it produces a picture of Baptist doctrine.