First Baptist Dallas

Introduction:  Last time, we saw that the apostle Paul commanded the Ephesian Christians to “lay aside” behavior that characterized those who are spiritually dead and to “put on” behavior that is more in keeping with our new life in Christ.  Today, we will discover five specific behaviors that believers should “lay aside” and replace with five behaviors that represent our “new self.”

Brandy Brinkley had a heart for the three siblings she heard were going into foster care, but she didn’t know she would get the honor of being their mother. ”Adoption takes time, but love comes instantly,” Brandy said. When the day finally came, the courtroom was filled with people from the church—it was the largest group the judge had ever seen. Now, the family is growing deeper roots in the church that brought them together.

Introduction:  Throughout history, Easter -- even more than Christmas -- has been the most important date on the Christian calendar.  Why is that?  Today, we are going to answer three bottom-line questions about Easter.

On the tenth day of our Easter devotional, Senior Pastor, Dr. Robert Jeffress, talks about “The Empty Tomb and Resurrection Hope.” In this episode, we’ll read Matthew 28:6 and learn about how Jesus’ resurrection was not the end of the story but the beginning.

On the ninth day of our Easter devotional, Minister of Music & Worship, Dr. Tyler Brinson, describes the moment “Jesus Is Laid in the Tomb.” In this episode, we’ll read Matthew 27:59-60 and learn about how, through Jesus’ death, He destroyed death and won our victory and salvation.

On the eighth day of our Easter devotional, Minister to Single Adults & Missions, Kevin Batista, reflects on “Jesus Taken Down From the Cross.” In this episode, we’ll read John 19:38–40 and learn about the quiet faith of two prominent men in Jesus’ day.

On the seventh day of our Easter devotional, Associate Minister of Education, Sean Beach, details the significance of the moment “Jesus Dies on the Cross.” In this episode, we’ll read John 19:30 and learn about the one word that serves as the climax of the story of Scripture and changed the course of history.

On the sixth day of our Easter devotional, Communications Associate and Project Manager, Hannah Sedwick, illustrates the importance of “Jesus Nailed to the Cross.” In this episode, we’ll read Luke 23:33 and learn about how Jesus took our transgressions upon Himself, turning an excruciating death into our eternal life.

On the fifth day of our Easter devotional, Minister en Español, Dr. Humberto Gonzalez, details the significance of when “Jesus is Stripped of His Garments.” In this episode, we’ll read John 19:23–24 and learn about how this clear fulfillment of prophecy encourages us in our faith today.

Introduction:  This coming Friday we remember the horrific, tortuous death that Jesus Christ experienced on the cross.  Why would anyone ever describe this day as “Good Friday?”  The apostle Paul will answer that question for us today.

On the fourth day of our Easter devotional, Content Manager, Julianne Thompson, urges us to remember the time “Jesus Addresses the Daughters of Jerusalem.” In this episode, we’ll read Luke 23:28 and learn about God’s compassion and presence in the midst of suffering.

On the third day of our Easter devotional, Minister to Median Adults and Men, Jeff Adams, illustrates the moment “Simon of Cyrene Helps Jesus Carry the Cross.” In this episode, we’ll read Mark 15:21, imagine this moment from Simon’s perspective, and understand what it means to serve others.

On the second day of our Easter devotional, Director of Women’s Ministry, Pam Brewer, puts into perspective the emotion when “Jesus Carries His Cross.” In this episode, we’ll read John 19:17 and learn about how the disrespect Jesus endured encourages us to press on.

On the first day of our Easter devotional, Executive Pastor, Dr. Ben Lovvorn, discusses the reason “Jesus is Condemned to Death.” In this episode, we’ll read Matthew 27:26 and learn about who was really responsible for putting Jesus on the Via Dolorosa in the first place.

Before we start our journey on the Via Dolorosa, Associate Executive Pastor of Practical Theology, Andrew Bobo, gives us an ”Introduction” to the theme and purpose of our Easter devotional to encourage us and focus our hearts toward the resurrection of Jesus.

When Alyssa Sivess moved to Dallas in 2006, First Baptist Dallas became more than a church. She and her family grew deep roots here, but she didn’t realize how much she would need her First Dallas community until a trip to visit her sister took a chaotic, terrifying turn. Thanks to the grace of God and the prayers of the church, the Sivess family made it home safely.

Introduction:  How is your life any different than the most moral non-Christian you know -- except the hour you spend in church once a week?  In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul explains the radical difference that should be evident in the life of every true follower of Jesus Christ.

Introduction:  Unity does not require uniformity.   In fact, one of the best ways to preserve unity in a church is for members to understand and appreciate spiritual gifts -- both their own gift and the gifts of other believers.

It’s been almost 30 years since Dr. W.A. Criswell invited John Reifers to an Easter service, but that single interaction transformed him. Now, John has dedicated his life to full-time evangelism, knowing how powerful a conversation can be. He goes about his day with the church’s invite cards on hand, saying they open doors to talk about his faith.

Introduction:  In our study of Ephesians 1-3, we have discovered the tremendous spiritual wealth that every Christian enjoys.  Today’s passage represents the “hinge” of Paul’s letter that begins to answer the “so what” question.  How should our spiritual wealth from Christ impact our daily walk with Christ?

Introduction:  What are the most important things you could pray for in your life … or in the lives of those you love most?  Today we are going to discover the answer to that question as we explore Paul’s second prayer in his letter to the Ephesians.

Introduction:  God has given each one of us a unique role to play in His unfolding drama of redemption.  Using Paul’s own story, we are going to discover how to find your God-given purpose in life.

In a world where godly marriages are increasingly rare, the Lord is at work to raise up faithful couples like Blake and Katy. The Kirbos have been a shining example to other young adults to remain faithful in every season: single, dating, engaged, or married.

Introduction:  In the summer of 1987, President Ronald Reagan stood in front of the Berlin Wall and demanded of his Soviet counterpart, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”  Within two short years that massive wall that had separated east and west Germany since 1961 was torn down by citizens on both sides of the wall.  Today, we are going to look at an even greater barrier that has been removed forever.

Introduction:  Our study of the book of Ephesians has brought us to the most familiar verses of this entire book.  Today we are going to discover the three words that can change your life and your eternity.

Introduction:  “The Way We Were” is not only the title of a popular love song from the 70’s but it is a way to describe the spiritual condition of anyone before they experience the transforming grace of God.  The first seven verses of Ephesians 2 represent a “spiritual MRI” of the spiritual condition of every non-Christian.

Introduction:  Most Christians go through life completely unaware of the spiritual “horsepower” God has provided to them.  Today, we are going to look under the hood to discover the spiritual energy that is available to very believer who knows how to access it.

Introduction: Many Christmas sermons center on the promise that the light of Christ’s coming overshadows the darkness of the world.  Yet, why is it that the darkness of today’s world seems to have eclipsed the light of Christ’s arrival in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago?

Introduction:  The Bible never divorces the truth of Christ’s return from everyday living.  Today, in this final message, we are going to discover how we should prepare for the certainty of the return of Jesus Christ.

On the last day of our Christmas devotional, Dr. Robert Jeffress teaches us the power of Jesus as the “Light of the World.” In this episode, look at Isaiah 9:2 and learn about the life-giving Light that pierces the darkness and conquers sin and death.

On the ninth day of our Christmas devotional, Director of Online Ministry, Emmanuel Pandula, reminds us the importance of taking time to behold the “Lamb of God.” In this episode, look at John 1:29 and be encouraged to avoid distractions and focus on Jesus.

On the eighth day of our Christmas devotional, Associate Minister to Junior High Students, Jared Haas, encourages us with the truth that Jesus is the “Prince of Peace.” In this episode, look at Isaiah 9:6 and learn how He alone brings true peace, restoration, reconciliation, and redemption in this world.

On the seventh day of our Christmas devotional, Minister to Young Married Adults, Barry Ford, talks about the enduring care and guidance of Jesus, described as the “Everlasting Father.” In this episode, look at Isaiah 9:6 and learn about the fatherly and nurturing role that the Messiah plays towards us.

On the sixth day of our Christmas devotional, Associate Minister of Worship, Jarrod Blackstock, reminds us that we serve a “Mighty God.” In this episode, look at Isaiah 9:6 and find strength and comfort in the superior power of Jesus.

Revelation 19:11-16

On the fifth day of our Christmas devotional, Pathways Counseling Center Director, Pam Greene, teaches us what it means that Jesus is a “Wonderful Counselor.” In this episode, look at Isaiah 9:6 and be encouraged by how Jesus is the embodiment of all wisdom, truth, light, and hope.

On the fourth day of our Christmas devotional, Pastoral Care Associate, Jephte Fanor, talks about Jesus as “King of the Jews.” In this episode, look at Matthew 2:2 and learn from the wise men’s attitude of worship.

On the third day of our Christmas devotional, Director of Pathway to Victory, Michael Clarke, reminds us of Jesus’ sovereignty as “Christ the Lord.” In this episode, look at Luke 2:11 and discover the transformative power of Jesus as both our Savior and our Lord.

On the second day of our Christmas devotional, Director of Preteens, Ashley Gross, explores one of the most profound names of our Savior: “Jesus.” In this episode, look at Luke 1:31 and reflect on God’s ultimate plan of redemption, especially in the midst of life’s trials.

On the first day of our Christmas devotional, Executive Pastor, Ben Lovvorn, talks about what it means that Jesus is “Immanuel.” In this episode, look at Isaiah 7:14 and learn the power behind the name “God with us.”

Introduction:  Today, we are going to look at the major events of the period we call “the end times” and discover what those events mean for us.

Introduction:  Last time we discovered that technically we are not living in the “end times,” yet we are living in what the Bible calls “the last days” that immediately precede the end times.  How will we, or future generations, know we are living in the “end times” that will climax with the Second Coming of Jesus Christ?

Introduction:  Someone has said that if you want to know where we are on God’s timeline for the future, just look at what is happening in Israel. The nation of Israel is God’s prophetic alarm clock. Today we are going to discover why—when it comes to the end times—it all begins and ends with Israel.

Introduction:  Today as we begin a new series titled “Are We Living In The End Times?” we will discover biblical answers to six pressing questions about the end times.

On the last day of our WIN NOW devotional, Senior Pastor, Dr. Robert Jeffress, challenges us to “Finish the Race.” In this episode, read 1 Corinthians 9:24–25 and learn the secret to living a life that is completely sold out to serving Jesus Christ.

On the tenth day of our WIN NOW devotional, Executive Pastor, Ben Lovvorn, encourages us to “Remember the Mission.” In this episode, read Acts 1:8 and learn how to live out the Great Commission.

On the ninth day of our WIN NOW devotional, Executive Pastor of Ministries, Ryland Whitehorn, charges us to “Press on Toward the Goal.” In this episode, read Philippians 3:12–14 and how to think like a goldfish and overcome setbacks.

On the eighth day of our WIN NOW devotional, Minister of Music and Worship, Dr. Tyler Brinson, reminds us: “Do Not Grow Weary.” In this episode, read Galatians 6:9 and learn how to handle the difficult seasons of life.

On the seventh day of our WIN NOW devotional, Director of Finance and Accounting, Sherryn Cates, teaches us what it means to “Give Cheerfully.” In this episode, look at 2 Corinthians 9:7 and learn why we give.

On the sixth day of our WIN NOW devotional, Executive Director of Communications and Broadcast, Nate Curtis, charges us to “Work Diligently.” In this episode, look at Colossians 3:23–24 and learn about the higher purpose to our work and endeavors.

On the fifth day of our WIN NOW devotional, Minister of Pastoral Care and Counseling, Alan Lynch, reminds us to “Be Thankful.” In this episode, look at 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 and learn about the most powerful mindset to have.

On the fourth day of our WIN NOW devotional, Executive Director of Administration and Operations, Jill Sullivan, encourages us to “Embrace Change.” In this episode, look at Jeremiah 29:11 and other Scriptures and learn how to trust the Lord in the midst of change.

On the third day of our WIN NOW devotional, Associate Executive Pastor of Special Projects, Ron Cresswell, teaches us how to “Be Prepared.” In this episode, we’ll look at 1 Peter 3:15 and learn four disciplines that help us in our preparation.

On the second day of our WIN NOW devotional,  Associate Executive Pastor, Guy Shafer, encourages us to “Be Strong.” In this episode, look at Joshua 1:9 and learn more about our only sufficient source of strength.

On the first day of our WIN NOW devotional, Associate Executive Pastor of Practical Theology, Andrew Bobo, teaches us how to “Run with Endurance.” In this episode, we’ll look at Hebrews 12:1–2 and learn about where the word “endurance” comes from, and discover four things that help us become resilient in our faith.

Introduction:  If you could ask God to do anything for someone you care deeply about, what would you ask?  Today, we are going to look at a model prayer to pray for others and for ourselves.

Introduction:  The psalmist tells us that God delights in the praises of His people.  In the opening section of Ephesians 1, the apostle Paul details seven specific things that God has done for every true follower of Jesus Christ.

Introduction:  Today we are going to examine one of the biggest conundrums in theology: balancing the sovereignty of God with man’s responsibility.

In this fifth and final lesson, Ben Lovvorn will help you discern what kind of leader you are. He will walk you through a series of questions that you can ask about your own leadership. By taking an honest look at where you are now, you can prepare to take the next step in becoming a transformational leader! To access our free, downloadable Transformational Leadership Self-Assessment Tool, visit firstdallas.org/lesson5.

In lesson four, Ben Lovvorn walks us through the way that Jesus led his disciples. Not only did he accomplish much through the disciples, but He also accomplished so much in them. He transformed Peter from a brash fisherman into a bold messenger for the gospel and pillar of the church. Through Christ’s power at work in us, we can be transformed and God can transform others through us.

In our third lesson, Ben Lovvorn will take us to an example in Scripture of transactional leadership. We’ll study the account of Herod Agrippa’s career in Acts 12 together. Herod Agrippa offers a stark warning for us to take seriously and avoid.

In lesson two, Ben Lovvorn contrasts two forms of leadership—transformational and transactional. Defining each type of leadership is critical. This will help us understand how the world practices leadership compared to the vastly different way that Christ has called us to lead.

In this first lesson, Ben Lovvorn explains the call God has placed on each of our lives to imitate Jesus Christ. When we do this, we become the kind of person others can confidently follow. Transformational leadership begins when our lives are transformed into the pattern of Jesus Christ.

Introduction:   Today we are beginning our study of Paul’s letter to the Christians at Ephesus which is filled with reminders to live out our faith in every aspect of our lives.

RESOLVED:  “I will use regrets about the past to avoid regrets about the future.”

RESOLVED:   I will choose a lifework that utilizes both my gifts and my interests.

RESOLVED:  “I will refuse to allow indecision, slothfulness, and purposelessness to rob me of reaching my potential.”

RESOLVED:   “I will not engage in any sexual activity outside of marriage.”

RESOLVED:  “I will accumulate a diversified portfolio of investments that will provide for my family’s needs and for God’s work.”

RESOLVED:  “I will one day hear God say to me, Well done, good and faithful servant.”

RESOLVED:  “I will refuse to allow the hurts of others to make me a prisoner of bitterness.”

RESOLVED:  “I will instill in my children a fear of God, an appreciation for their uniqueness, a respect for authority, and a wealth of pleasant memories.”

RESOLVED:  “I will appreciate, enjoy, and value the mate God has brought into my life.”

On the last day of our men’s devotional, Dr. Robert Jeffress, teaches how to find the true happiness that all men desire in his devotional, “The Fear of the Lord as the Key to a Blessed Life.” In this episode, learn why men need to treasure the Bible and have a strong faith, what blessings the Lord has promised to those who fear Him, and how to live a wise and flourishing life.

On the ninth day of our men’s devotional, Executive Pastor, Ben Lovvorn, teaches us about “The Value of Hard Work and Diligence.” In this episode, learn about why hard work is important, how work is an act of worship, and why men of faith should do their work with excellence.

On the eighth day of our men’s devotional, Associate Executive Pastor, Guy Shafer, teaches us about “The Blessings of Generosity and Giving.” In this episode, learn what it means to be generous, why generosity is good for you, and how to manage your money in a godly way.

On the seventh day of our men’s devotional, Deaf Minister, Ashton Luff, teaches us about “The Importance of Listening and Understanding.” In this episode, learn the difference between hearing and listening, how to listen for the voice of God, and how God can use your listening in powerful ways.

On the sixth day of our men’s devotional, Single Adults and Missions Minister, Kevin Batista, teaches us about “The Dangers of Pride and Arrogance.” In this episode, learn why pride prohibits wisdom, what humility looks like, and how to find true strength.

On the fifth day of our men’s devotional, Executive Pastor of Ministries, Ryland Whitehorn, teaches us about “The Benefits of Discipline and Correction.” In this episode, learn how to discipline others in a godly way, how to receive discipline well, and how to set yourself apart from an unwise culture.

On the fourth day of our men’s devotional, Recreation Minister, Brent McFadden, teaches us about “The Power of Wise Words.” In this episode, learn how to be a better leader and how to use your words in power and wisdom.

On the third day of our men’s devotional, Minister of Special Needs Ministry, Gary Felton, teaches us that choosing wisdom is a simple either/or decision in his devotional, “Wisdom as a Path of Righteousness.” In this episode, learn more about the pursuit of wisdom and the difference between walking in darkness and walking in light.

On the second day of our men’s devotional, Associate Minister of Instrumental Music, Joe Hardin, teaches us about the importance of “Seeking Wisdom Like Hidden Treasure.” In this episode, learn more about the value and source of wisdom.

On the first day of our men’s devotional, Men’s Minister, Jeff Adams, teaches us a foundation for wisdom in his devotional, “The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge.” In this episode, learn about the lie of self-sufficiency, how to be coachable, and what it means to fear the Lord.

Philippians 3:13-14  Regret is one of life’s most painful and unnecessary emotions.  In this new series, SAY GOODBYE TO REGRET, we will discover the biblical principles for dealing with regrets from our past and preventing regrets in the future.

Exodus 20:17  Today, we have come to the final commandment of THE 10.  The command against coveting is given last -- not because it is of least importance -- because it is foundational to the other nine commandments.

Exodus 20:16 The three previous commandments we have examined all deal with robbing someone of something valuable: their life, their mate, or their possessions.  The ninth commandment specifically focuses on stealing a person’s most valuable possession--their reputation.

Exodus 20:15 Although most of us have never committed armed robbery, everyone is guilty of taking something that does not belong to them.  Today, we are going to discover various ways we violate the eighth commandment which prohibits stealing and discover why such a command is necessary to maintain both a civilized society and a clear conscience.

Spring Training is our annual spiritual disciplines program at First Baptist Dallas! In this week’s episode, our Executive Pastor Ben Lovvorn discusses the fifth step in the disciple’s journey—reaching for the summit. To find out more about Spring Training and to download our free ebook, go to firstdallas.org/springtraining.

The seventh commandment is only two words in length, but obeying or disobeying it has endless consequences.  Today, we will discover the destructive power of adultery and some practical and biblical ways to avoid it.

A desire for the destination keeps us going on our journey, even when it gets difficult. This week’s episode draws from the letters of Peter, who encourages us to resist temptations, even amidst suffering, because our hope is permanent and eternal. The disciple’s journey leads us to a renewed and transformed creation. This is the Week 5 introduction, ”Reaching for the Summit,” from the Spring Training journal, which you can download for free at firstdallas.org/springtraining. Our thanks to Davin Hutchinson, our Associate Student Minister of Worship, who served as the reader for this podcast.

Spring Training is our annual spiritual disciplines program at First Baptist Dallas! In this week’s episode, our Executive Pastor Ben Lovvorn discusses another vital aspect of every disciple’s journey—being empowered by the Spirit to pursue God’s purpose. To find out more about Spring Training and to download our free ebook, go to firstdallas.org/springtraining.

During more than forty years of ministry, the number one question I'm asked by Christians is, "Can a Christian lose their salvation?" Today, we are going to discover five biblical reasons to believe that genuine Christians are saved forever.

In the opening chapters of Acts, Peter’s boldness and passion are channeled in a new way toward God’s desired ends. His entire life is fueled by the power of the Holy Spirit. This episode reminds us of the power of God’s grace working in us for our joy and through us for the building up of Christ’s body. This is the Week 4 introduction, ”Discovering New Strength,” from the Spring Training journal, which you can download for free at firstdallas.org/springtraining. Our thanks to Davin Hutchinson, our Associate Student Minister of Worship, who served as the reader for this podcast.

Spring Training is our annual spiritual disciplines program at First Baptist Dallas! In this week’s episode, our Executive Pastor Ben Lovvorn discusses an important aspect in every disciple’s journey—experiencing failure and being restored by Christ. To find out more about Spring Training and to download our free ebook, go to firstdallas.org/springtraining.

This episode follows the story of Peter, one of Jesus’ disciples, who vowed never to betray his Lord. But when the crucial moment came, Peter failed. He denied knowing Jesus three times. In this leg of the journey, we will see how God’s grace can turn our worst mistakes into His greatest victories. This is the Week 3 introduction, ”Stumbling off the Path,” from the Spring Training journal, which you can download for free at firstdallas.org/springtraining. Our thanks to Davin Hutchinson, our Associate Student Minister of Worship, who served as the reader for this podcast.

Spring Training is our annual spiritual disciplines program at First Baptist Dallas! In this week’s episode, our Executive Pastor Ben Lovvorn discusses the second step in the disciple’s journey—learning what it takes to follow Jesus. To find out more about Spring Training and to download our free ebook, go to firstdallas.org/springtraining.

Exodus 20:13 The command “Thou shall not kill” seems straightforward enough without any additional commentary. However, today we are going to discover multiple applications of this command that are essential for bringing order to a chaotic world.

This week we dive into the immersive and challenging training Jesus provided for His disciples. There is a high cost to following Him—we must be willing to give up wealth, ambition, and even family. But what we give up is small in comparison to what we are promised. This is the Week 2 introduction, ”Training with the Master,” from the Spring Training journal, which you can download for free at firstdallas.org/springtraining. Our thanks to Davin Hutchinson, our Associate Student Minister of Worship, who served as the reader for this podcast.

Spring Training is our annual spiritual disciplines program at First Baptist Dallas! Our theme for 2023 is Spring Training: A Disciple’s Journey. In this week’s episode, our Executive Pastor Ben Lovvorn discusses the first step of a disciple’s journey—choosing to follow Christ wherever He leads. To find out more about Spring Training and our free ebook, go to firstdallas.org/springtraining.