St Stephen Evangelical Church

On Easter Sunday we proclaim the life that rises from death. Using John 3:9–18, Numbers 21:8–9, Isaiah 53:1, Psalm 16:8–10, and Matthew 28:1–15, this sermon traces God’s rescue plan from the bronze serpent to the empty tomb. We’ll see how Christ’s lifting on the cross brings healing for our sin-sickness, how the prophet’s suffering points to vindication, and how the resurrection transforms fear into faithful hope. Expect Scripture-driven teaching, practical application for today, and an invitation to meet the risen Savior who says, “Look and live.”

Join us as we trace the life and purpose of the Lamb of God through Scripture — from the Passover lamb in Exodus 12 to John the Baptist’s declaration (John 1:29), the praise of Psalm 118:26, Jesus’ arrival in Luke 19:28, and the events of Matthew 26:1–35. In this message we will:

• Unpack the Passover’s sacrificial symbolism and how it foreshadows Christ’s atoning work.
• Explore John 1:29 and the meaning of “Behold the Lamb of God” for believers today.
• Reflect on Psalm 118’s cry of praise and the people’s welcome of Jesus, then consider the cost revealed in the upper room and Gethsemane (Matthew 26).
• Draw practical applications for worship, repentance, courage, and living in the light of Christ’s substitutionary love.

Scripture readings: Exodus 12; John 1:29; Psalm 118:26; Luke 19:28; Matthew 26:1–35.

Join us for a life-changing message on the power of the tongue and practical ways to guard your mouth. Using Proverbs 18:21 and 21:23, Matthew 15:10–11 & 15–20, Romans 10:8–10, Matthew 9:18–25, Psalm 90, 91, 92, and James 3:1–6, this sermon explores how our words shape relationships, reflect the heart, and activate faith. Expect clear biblical teaching, real-life application, and a call to respond.

What you’ll learn

• Why words carry life and death (Proverbs 18:21)
• How hidden words reveal the heart (Matthew 15:10–20)
• The responsibility and consequences of speech (James 3:1–6)
• Speaking faith that moves God (Romans 10:8–10; Matthew 9:18–25)
• Worshipful framing: praying and praising under God’s shelter (Psalms 90, 91, 92)
• Practical, everyday habits to guard your mouth and encourage others

Practical takeaways

• Pause before speaking: pray a short breath prayer.
• Replace criticism with affirmation: offer truthful positives alongside correction.
• Confess quickly when words harm; seek reconciliation proactively.
• Develop a daily habit of spoken gratitude and Scripture declarations.

In Part 2 of this enlightening series, Pastor Robbie Ballentine continues to focus on the crucial theme of guarding your mind. This session builds on the foundation laid in Part 1, exploring how our shape our behavior and interactions. By referencing Philippians 4:8, we will reflect on the importance of dwelling on things that are true, noble, and praiseworthy, steering us towards a life filled with hope and constructive energy.

 

The episode also emphasizes the role of prayer as seen in James 5:16, reminding us that honest communication with God can transform our mindset and influence the words we share.

 

Join us as we delve deeper into how a heart aligned with Christ can lead to positive mindset in our lives and the lives of those around us.

In this enlightening sermon, we explore the critical theme of guarding your mind to lead a life filled with purpose and positivity. Drawing from Proverbs 23:7, we delve into the connection between our thoughts and the words we express, emphasizing that our words can either uplift or tear down. Romans 8:5-6 teaches us the importance of setting our minds on the Spirit, leading to life and peace.

We’ll also reflect on Colossians 3:2, reminding ourselves to focus on things above, which influences how we communicate. As we navigate the world today, 1 Peter 5:8 warns us to be alert against the adversary, and 2 Corinthians 2:10-16 highlights the importance of forgiveness and love in our speech.

Join us for a powerful discussion on how our words can reflect a heart rooted in Christ and contribute to a harmonious life, both for ourselves and those around us.

What if joy wasn’t based on what’s happening around you—but on Who lives within you?

In this powerful and encouraging message, we explore what it truly means to experience the Joy of the Lord. Rooted in Nehemiah 8:10, we discover that “the joy of the Lord is your strength.” This isn’t temporary happiness—it’s divine strength that sustains you in every season.

Through Psalm 16:11, we learn that fullness of joy is found in God’s presence. In John 15:9, Jesus teaches us to abide in His love so that our joy may be complete. And in Galatians 5:22, we are reminded that joy is a fruit of the Spirit—evidence of a life connected to Him.

In this sermon, you will discover:

• The difference between happiness and biblical joy
• How joy strengthens you in difficult seasons
• How abiding in Christ produces lasting joy
• How the Holy Spirit cultivates joy in your daily walk

No matter what you are facing, this message will remind you that joy is not fragile—it is powerful, sustaining, and available to you right now.

Be encouraged. Be strengthened. And step into the fullness of His joy.

What keeps you standing when life’s storms begin to rise?

In this powerful and encouraging message, we explore what it truly means to be Rooted and Grounded in Christ. Drawing from Colossians 2:6–7, we are reminded to continue walking in Him—rooted, built up, and established in the faith. A strong spiritual life doesn’t happen by accident; it grows intentionally.

Through Psalm 1:1, we learn the blessing of choosing godly counsel and positioning ourselves for growth. In Luke 6:48, Jesus paints the picture of a wise builder who digs deep and lays his foundation on the rock—standing firm when floods come. And in Romans 12:1, we are called to present our lives as living sacrifices, fully surrendered and transformed.

In this sermon, you will discover:

• What it truly means to be spiritually rooted
• How to build a foundation that survives life’s storms
• The importance of daily surrender and spiritual discipline
• How stability in Christ leads to consistent growth

If you desire a life that is steady, fruitful, and unshaken, this message will challenge and encourage you to dig deeper and anchor yourself fully in Him.

As a new year begins, many people set resolutions—but what if this year’s greatest resolution is spiritual?

In this powerful and encouraging sermon, we explore biblical principles for a God-centered New Year through Matthew 6:33–34, 1 Corinthians 9:24–27, Hebrews 12:1–2, and 2 Kings 22:1–2.

Jesus teaches us to seek first the Kingdom of God and trust Him with tomorrow. Paul challenges us to run the race with discipline and purpose. Hebrews reminds us to lay aside every weight and fix our eyes on Jesus. And King Josiah shows us that it’s possible to start young—or start fresh—and still choose what is right in the sight of the Lord.

In this message, you will discover how to:

• Make spiritual priorities your first pursuit
• Let go of distractions and unnecessary weights
• Develop discipline that leads to lasting growth
• Run your race with endurance and purpose
• Keep your focus on Jesus throughout the year
• Build resolutions that have eternal impact

This sermon will encourage you to move beyond temporary goals and embrace eternal transformation. Don’t just make resolutions—make a decision to seek God first, run with focus, and finish strong.

Start the year aligned with Heaven’s priorities.

#NewYearSermon #SeekFirst #ChristianEncouragement #RunTheRace #FaithGoals #BiblicalResolutions #FixYourEyesOnJesus

Are you hungry for something more? In this powerful and encouraging sermon based on John 8:1–11, discover what it truly means to hunger and thirst for the Word of God.

In the story of the woman caught in adultery, we see accusation, shame, and condemnation—but we also see mercy, truth, and transformation through Jesus Christ. While religious leaders came with stones, Jesus responded with wisdom and grace. When He declared, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first,” everything changed.

This message will help you:

• Understand how God’s Word satisfies the deepest hunger of your soul
• Recognize the difference between condemnation and conviction
• Experience the transforming power of grace and truth
• Develop a deeper desire for daily time in Scripture
• Walk in freedom instead of shame

If you have ever felt condemned, unworthy, or spiritually dry, this sermon will remind you that Jesus does not cancel you—He calls you higher. When we hunger and thirst for His Word, we encounter mercy that restores and truth that transforms.

Unbelief is one of the most subtle yet powerful spiritual attacks believers face. In this sermon, Unmasking the Enemy: Standing Strong Against the Spiritual Attack of Unbelief, Pastor Robbie Ballentine takes a deep look at how unbelief works against faith, hinders spiritual growth, and blocks us from fully receiving what God has already provided.

Drawing from John 3:16–19, Romans 8:7, Matthew 13:58, and Hebrews 4:2, this message reveals how unbelief is not just a feeling or doubt, but a spiritual posture that resists God’s truth and power. Scripture shows us that unbelief can limit what God desires to do—not because of His inability, but because of hardened hearts that refuse to trust Him.

In this sermon, you’ll learn:

• How unbelief operates as a spiritual enemy
• Why the mind set on the flesh resists God’s truth
• How unbelief limited Jesus’ miracles in His hometown
• Why hearing the Word without faith prevents transformation
• Practical ways to stand strong and respond in faith

This message is a call to examine our hearts, align our minds with God’s truth, and choose faith over fear, doubt, and resistance. Be encouraged and equipped to recognize unbelief and stand firm in the faith God has given you.

📖 Key Scriptures:
John 3:16–19
Romans 8:7
Matthew 13:58
Hebrews 4:2