LifePoint Church Longwood

Pastor Phil Ayres addresses the complex relationship between money and faith in his sermon, emphasizing that money itself is not evil but rather the love of money that can lead to various problems. He shares insights from scripture, including the importance of contentment and the understanding that everything ultimately belongs to God. The pastor encourages a generous mindset, highlighting that our financial choices reflect our values and faith. Ultimately, he calls on the congregation to feel empowered rather than guilty about their financial stewardship, urging them to use their resources for eternal impact.

In this thought-provoking sermon, Pastor Phil dives into one of Jesus’ most challenging teachings: "You cannot serve God and money." 📖 (Matthew 6:19-24) Through clear insights, powerful illustrations, and practical applications, you'll discover: ✔️ The dangers of storing treasures on earth vs. investing in eternal rewards. ✔️ How our vision shapes our attitudes toward wealth and generosity. ✔️ The choice we all face: Will money control us, or will we use it to serve God’s purposes? 🕊️ Key Scriptures Explored: Matthew 6:19-24 Luke 12:15-21 Deuteronomy 15:7-11 Ecclesiastes 2:18-19 💡 Highlights from This Message: Why Jesus talks so much about money (1 in 10 verses in the Gospels!). What it means to have "healthy eyes" and how it impacts your generosity. How to avoid letting wealth control your heart and your life.

In this Christmas message, "MERCIES AT THE MANGER: Mary Did You Know?" we dive into the familiar questions asked in the beloved song Mary, Did You Know?. Together, we’ll explore Luke 1:30-2:35 to find biblical answers to these nine thought-provoking questions. What did Mary really know about the Savior she carried? The Bible holds the answers! Join us as we uncover the profound mercies revealed at the manger through God's Word.

While Christmas brings joy for many, it can also be a challenging time for those facing loneliness or loss. He encouraged individuals to remember that they are never truly alone, as Jesus is always with them, offering comfort and companionship even in the darkest moments. Furthermore, Pastor highlighted the unconditional love of God, reminding everyone of their inherent value as image bearers of God, regardless of worldly standards. Lastly, he urged the congregation to be sensitive to those struggling during the season, focusing on the true meaning of Christmas rather than superficial aspects.

Join us as we kick off the Christmas season with a powerful message from John 1:1-5, exploring how the story of Christmas didn’t start in Bethlehem—it began at the very beginning of creation. From the eternal Word in Genesis 1:1 to the fulfillment of God’s purpose in John 1:14, this sermon traces the PLAN, PURPOSE, and PROMISE of Christmas. Discover how: ✨ Jesus, the Creator of all things (Colossians 1:15-16), became flesh to dwell among us. ✨ Christmas is personified in the crib—a Savior born for all people (Luke 2:10-12). ✨ Christmas was delivered at the cross, securing our redemption through the precious blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18-20). 🔔 You can find Him too! Don’t miss this opportunity to reflect on the eternal significance of Christmas, as we see God’s mercy revealed from creation to the manger and beyond.

Pastor Phil, along with Matt, kick off their sermon by discussing the impact of modern distractions, especially digital noise, on our lives and spiritual health. They explore biblical examples of distraction, emphasizing the need for intentional pauses to connect with God, using stories from figures like David, Jesus, and Elijah. The sermon highlights the importance of reframing boredom in children’s lives to encourage creativity and self-reliance, rather than relying on screens for entertainment. Ultimately, they stress that the power of the pause helps us embrace God's peace and purpose amidst living in a distraction-heavy world.

In his sermon, Phil emphasizes the importance of grounding oneself in the truth of Jesus as the ultimate guide amidst a world filled with misinformation. He illustrates that while truth is often complicated, the Holy Spirit assists believers in discerning truth from lies. Phil encourages consistent engagement with the Bible to build a strong foundation for understanding truth and warns against following misleading influences. He challenges the congregation to evaluate their media consumption and relationships in light of Jesus' character and teachings.

Pastor Phil Ayres addresses the dangers of smartphone addiction and its impact on our lives, emphasizing the importance of managing time wisely. He highlights how social media creates dopamine-driven distractions that can lead to anxiety and hinder our connection with God and others. By referencing Ephesians, he encourages the congregation to redeem their time by removing distractions, being intentional, and seeking wisdom from God. The sermon concludes with practical steps for accountability and time budgeting, urging everyone to recognize the value of each moment as a gift to be used for God’s glory.

Pastor Matt discusses the dangers of comparisons in a digital age where constant media exposure can distort our self-image and identity in Christ. He emphasizes that our worth should not be measured against societal standards but found in our unique calling and position as beloved children of God. By examining Ephesians 2:6, he illustrates how believers are raised and seated with Christ, highlighting the transformative power of this truth. The sermon encourages listeners to reject the culture of comparison and instead seek contentment through their identity in Christ, urging them to focus on God's unconditional love, acceptance, and purpose for their lives.

Pastor Matt introduces a sermon series titled "Dangers and Distractions" that examines how digital media can impact our spiritual well-being if left unchecked. He emphasizes the need to evaluate our digital habits with personal reflection and discernment, rather than calling for complete avoidance of technology. Using Scripture, particularly Matthew 6:22-23, Pastor Matt highlights the importance of maintaining a clear focus on God's truth to navigate the distractions of the digital age. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to prioritize their spiritual journey and relationship with Christ over transient worldly spectacles.

Pastor Phil discusses the importance of community and support through the lens of Paul's letter to Timothy, highlighting how even well-known figures like Paul faced loneliness and challenges in their ministry. He emphasizes that we are not designed to navigate life alone and encourages recognizing our need for friendship, asking for help, and practicing forgiveness. Using Paul's experiences, Pastor Phil illustrates that true strength comes from God, who never leaves us, even in hardship. The sermon concludes with a call to embrace community and faith, reminding us that God's empowerment is meant for His glory and the spread of the gospel.

Pastor Phil discusses the importance of final requests by sharing examples from historical figures, emphasizing how powerful messages can be found in their last words. He highlights the urgent command from Paul to Timothy to "preach the word," illustrating the gravity of this calling as being aimed first at God and then at people. The sermon stresses the need for patience and encouragement in preaching, likening the Bible to medicine rather than a weapon, and urging readiness to share one’s faith in any situation. Ultimately, Pastor Phil encourages everyone to stay true to Scripture, finish their faith journey well, and be prepared to preach the word at all times.

In this sermon, Speaker Nate discusses the significance of rebuilding the temple as a means to restore the relationship between God's people and Him, using the Book of Haggai as a backdrop. He highlights that while the Israelites initially responded to the call to rebuild, complacency and self-interest led them to abandon the project, focusing instead on their own homes. Pastor emphasizes that prioritizing God's work is essential for spiritual growth and fulfillment, and he relates this back to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, which allows all believers to become temples of the Holy Spirit. The key takeaway is that individuals should reflect on their spiritual priorities, ensuring they are building a relationship with God and guiding others toward Him.

Pastor Phil discussed the concepts of righteousness and humility, contrasting the self-righteousness of the Pharisee with the humility of the tax collector in Jesus’ parable. He emphasized that righteousness is not based on good deeds or religious rituals but rather on recognizing one's shortcomings and accepting God's grace. The message highlighted that true humility leads to being exalted by God, while self-exaltation results in being humbled. Ultimately, Pastor called for self-reflection on one’s reliance on personal righteousness and encouraged an embrace of the grace offered through faith in Jesus Christ.

The sermon discusses how the scriptures equip believers for living a Christian life, similar to the gadgets used by James Bond in his adventures. Pastor emphasizes the importance of continuing in the teachings of the Bible, highlighting Timothy's legacy of faith instilled by his mother and grandmother. He urges listeners to find mentors or role models to help guide them in their faith, while also noting the significance of teaching scripture to children. Ultimately, the message calls for readers to prioritize the Bible in their lives, as it offers guidance, wisdom, and encouragement for every situation.

Pastor Phil shares his personal struggles with exhaustion and doubt during his pastoral journey, highlighting how he sought wisdom from his former pastor, who emphasized that enduring challenges comes from Christ’s strength rather than one’s own. He emphasizes four keys to enduring faith: relying on the grace of Christ, fostering community support, embracing discipline, and keeping Jesus at the forefront of one’s mind. Pastor uses illustrations from soldiers, athletes, and farmers to convey the importance of commitment and perseverance in the Christian life. He concludes with a reminder of God’s unwavering faithfulness, encouraging believers to endure for the sake of those who have yet to know Christ.

In this sermon, Pastor Phil emphasizes the importance of not being ashamed of the gospel, drawing on the personal letter from Paul to Timothy as a source of encouragement amidst difficulties. He highlights that suffering for the gospel is part of the Christian journey and serves as a means for sanctification, teaching that God's grace is sufficient in our weaknesses. Pastor Phil outlines three critical theological concepts—justification, sanctification, and glorification—that reveal the believer's growth and ultimate hope in Christ. Ultimately, Pastor Phil urges believers to guard the gospel with boldness, relying on the Holy Spirit’s power while recognizing that their future in Christ is secure.

In this sermon, Pastor discusses the dangers of materialism and the pursuit of wealth, illustrated through the life of Howard Hughes, who became a recluse despite his billions. He emphasizes that the craving for money can lead to spiritual division and a false sense of security, resulting in a disconnect from God. Pastor warns that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil and provides three cautions about materialism: it is deceptive, dangerous, and can be damning, leading people away from their faith. The key to combating materialism is contentment and generosity, urging the congregation to prioritize their faith and use their resources to bless others.

Pastor Phil's sermon, "Be An Example," delves into the teachings of Paul to Timothy, emphasizing setting an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. The story of missionary Hudson Taylor illustrates the impact of serving Christ from a young age. Paul encourages Timothy to not be hindered by his youth, but to embrace his role as a spiritual leader. The sermon stresses the significance of reading scripture, teaching, and utilizing spiritual gifts, concluding with a call to be steadfast in faith and lead others to salvation.

Pastor Phil's sermon "A Call For Leadership" emphasizes developing strong leaders in the church, highlighting the importance of preparing for the future by following the qualifications outlined in 1 Timothy 3. He stresses the need for both men and women to embody godly leadership roles in the church, focusing on guidance, protection, and prayer. The sermon outlines the process of evaluating potential elders at Life Point Christian Church and encourages the congregation to fill the leadership gap and leave a lasting impact for the next generation.