The Chapel Sermon Podcast

I Believe in the Bible | I Believe | Scott Chapman | Part 1

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

The Bible was written amidst dramatically diverse circumstances and contexts by 40 authors across three continents, in three languages, over a span of 1500 years. Yet, remarkably, it still tells one cohesive story! God inspired each of its authors to write, and when we read the Bible with God, he illuminated the original inspiration of the text to us. The Bible teaches and instructs us to live righteous lives and equips us for the work God has in store for each of us. Research consistently indicates that, among various spiritual practices, reading the Bible with God has the most profound impact on one's spiritual life; it transforms our values, priorities, and perspectives. Despite these benefits, many individuals find it challenging to establish a consistent practice of spending time in God's Word. If you find yourself in this position, you are not alone.

That's Deep | Come Alive | Denvil Lee

While in captivity, God gives a prophetic vision to Ezekiel. In his vision, the temple has been rebuilt, and water flows from it to the east, bringing life to everything it touches. In the Old Testament, whenever the people move away from God, they go east. Nothing good comes from the east. And yet, here, the water flows east. Ezekiel’s vision creates this beautiful picture of living water flowing from the temple into the world’s darkest places – bringing healing waters to everything it encounters.

This prophetic vision is like a rock, skipping on the water, touching throughout time. There was a rebuilt physical temple in the Old Testament; also, Jesus said he was the temple, the church is the temple, and those who have the Holy Spirit are the temple. We are the temple. We are called to go out into a hurting, suffering, and dying world with the living water that brings revival! God doesn’t want to change the world without us. God doesn't want to change the world without you.

Citizen | Scott Chapman

As we look ahead to this election year, we are reminded that the future of America is not determined by who we elect as president. Racism and poverty will not cease to exist because a person or party is elected or because policies are enacted; they end when God’s kingdom invades the earth. So how does that happen? How does God bring his kingdom? It’s through us! 

Each of us has the opportunity to be part of the change our country needs. When we allow Jesus to be king of our lives, our hearts are changed, and we live differently; we become conduits of his kingdom here on earth. His kingdom can change families, neighborhoods, cities, schools, hearts, and relationships. Hope for America is not found in the government or the political system; our hope is found in Jesus!

True Happiness | Scott Chapman

Happiness often feels just out of reach; hard to catch and harder to hang onto. Worldly wisdom suggests happiness is achieved through sheer willpower or by changing our circumstances. If we work hard enough or if people or situations change, then we will be happier. The Bible teaches something entirely different; that peace and joy are the overflow of spending time in the presence of God. 

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

As you give your life to God and trust him to lead and guide you, you will begin to experience his presence in increasing measure. It is in his presence that you will experience overflowing joy, peace, and hope – which where true happiness comes from.

Freedom | Reed Paul

Jesus came to set us free from the chains of sin, brokenness, past regrets, unforgiveness, bitterness, revenge, and addiction. The world needs to know they have a Savior who loves them and wants to set them free! Once we experience freedom, we are called to actively look for ways to share with those around us how God has worked in our lives. The freedom God brings into our lives is not meant just for us; it's given to us to go out and change the world through the power of God's kingdom.

Christmas Eve 2023 | Scott Chapman

Scott Chapman

O Holy Night | Heaven and Nature Sing | Freddy Villarreal | Part 4

This timeless Christmas carol beautifully captures the moment when God descended from heaven and assumed human form while highlighting three truths about God’s presence in our lives.

God’s presence reveals our worth.
You matter more than you could ever realize to God. He didn’t send a messenger to save us, he came himself. 
God’s presence revives our hope.
Jesus came to bring freedom, healing, and break every chain. His kingdom is without limitations, and he invites us to be his ambassadors.

God’s presence restores our joy.
We don’t have to muster up joy or try to make our own joy. The Spirit of God within us is our source of joy.

Silent Night | Heaven and Nature Sing | Putty Putman | Part 3

The birth of Jesus marked one of the most extraordinary nights in human history, long-awaited by all of heaven. "Silent Night," a beloved Christmas carol, beautifully paints a picture of this night when God took on human form and made his dwelling among us. Yet, surprisingly, amidst this monumental event, "all was calm," reminding us that God often works in the simplicity of our everyday lives.

We don’t need to wait for big, flashy moments to experience the adventure of following Jesus. We simply need to turn on our spiritual eyes and ears and be willing to step out in faith when we sense God speaking to us. God is always working, and there are miracles waiting to happen on the other side of our obedience.

Little Drummer Boy | Heaven and Nature Sing | Jamie Wamsley | Part 2

This week, we continued our Christmas series, Heaven and Nature Sing, looking at the song "Little Drummer Boy." This classic Christmas carol tells the story of a humble boy offering the gift of playing his drum to the newborn king. While this song takes place at the start of Jesus' life, it also paints a picture of what our lives are meant to look like.

Joy to the World | Heaven and Nature Sing | Ellie Dole | Part 1

There's a common misconception that joy is something we can manufacture or achieve. We pursue joy through material acquisitions, the pursuit of heart-pounding thrills, and the attainment of accomplishments and promotions. However, even when we achieve these things, the emotional satisfaction from these pursuits is temporary. 

The Bible gives us another perspective – that joy comes through knowing the God of hope. Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” 

Jesus is joy for our past, present, and future. He redeems our past and restores us to himself. He calls us chosen, forgiven, and loved. He promises a future free of pain, sickness, and heartache and gives us hope over every earthly trial we experience. He gives us the Holy Spirit to be with us right now and the gift of his kingdom here on earth. All of this brings true JOY to our hearts and lives.