Sermons by Ron Sylvester
Pergamum, the Compromising Church | Revelation 2:12-17
Listen, as Pastor Ron continues his series on the letter of Jesus to the churches in Revelation. What can we learn from the compromising church in Pergamum? Discussion Questions 1. Why do we not see the danger in compromising God’s Word and our faith? 2. Do you think this passage speaks a warning to those in the Church who mix political ideology and idolizing politicians with our faith? 3. How do you think God (Jesus) wants us to be in…
Ephesus: The Forgetful Church | Revelation 2:1-7
In today’s message, Pastor Ron introduces a new series looking at Christ’s letters to the churches in Revelation. We see how his message is still relevant today. Discussion Questions 1. How does it happen that we forget our “first love” of Jesus? 2. If Jesus sent a letter to Cornerstone for what would He commend us, and what would He correct about us? 3. Motivation is the test of our works. How and why do our motivations change?
Receptivity | Luke 8:4-15
Listen as Pastor Ron explores the message of the parable of the sower. Discussion Questions 1. Is the intent of this passage to help us discern who is “saved?” 2. Is it possible for all four soils to co-exist in one person? 3. How do we explain the lesson of this parable in light of Isaiah 55:10,11 ? 4. Can the lesson of this parable be applied to the church ? Is that helpful, and encouraging?
Reminders | 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28
Pastor Ron finishes our series going through 1 Thessalonians and remembering what it means to have a “Better Life Now”. Discussion Questions 1. How and why do we hold leaders in the highest regard? 2. Notice the instructions in verses 14-18. They allow for no exceptions. In light of that why are Paul’s counsel in verses 19-22 and his prayer in verses 23,24 important? 3. What is the difference between “quenching”or putting out the fire of the Holy Spirit (5:19)…
Self-Giving | 2 Thessalonians 2:1-16
Pastor Ron helps us to see the qualities of good leaders as presented in Thessalonians. Discussion Questions 1. According to this passage, what qualities of Paul make him a good pastor? 2. Should we make more of imitation in the church? (note vs 8 and 14, also 1Cor. 11:1) 3. Look at vs.13, ch.1:5 then 2Timothy 3:14-17. In light of these scripture verses what role does the Word of God play in our relationships with one another? 4. How must…
For Example | 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
We take a closer look at the church in Thessalonica and the example they set as Pastor Ron continues our series “A Better Life Now”. Discussion Questions 1. Share an example that encouraged your spiritual life. 2. How can Cornerstone be an example to another church or churches in the area as the church in Thessalonica was? 3. True or False? Life without problems and suffering is a fantasy and not worth pursuing. Can we have a meaningful life of…
Troubling Truth | Acts 17:1-9
Pastor Ron introduces us to Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica as he begins a new sermon series entitled “A Better Life Now”. Discussion Questions 1. Suffering and Death were great hurdles or obstacles for the Jews to believe Jesus was Messiah. What are some of the common hurdles or obstacles for people today to believe Jesus is who He says He is? 2. How does the gospel trouble you? 3. Jealousy was a problem here. (Note: Prov.14:30; James 3:16: Mark 7:22)…
Mission Accomplished. More to do? | Matthew 28:1-10
“It is finished!” What does that mean to us? Pastor Ron shared a message of hope this Easter morning.
Escape From Our Boxes | Mark 7:24-30
As Pastor Ron continues our series in the book of Mark, we explore how we can see beyond our own perspective. Watch Here Discussion Questions 1. What is the main point of this passage? 2. Explain the exchange between Jesus and the woman. 3. How does “normal life” limit our perspective and opportunity to accept and serve those different from ourselves? 4. Earlier Jesus chided the disciples for their “little” faith. Here Jesus commends this woman for her “great” faith…
Facing Our Limits | Mark 4:35-41
Jesus led His disciples into a storm. What can we learn from this as we face storms in our own life? Listen as Pastor Ron continues our series in Mark. Watch Here Discussion Questions 1. What do you think is the main lesson in this story? 2. Does it seem right that Jesus chided the disciples? 3. Why can/cannot fear and faith co-exist? 4. Did the disciples have reason(s) not to fear? Do we when faced with our limits in…
Beyond Our Efforts | Mark 4:26-34
Pastor Ron is starting a new series in the book of Mark called “What We Need, God Provides”. The Lord of the harvest provides all that we need. Watch Here Discussion Questions 1. What inspires you to persevere when progress seems painfully slow? 2. Why do we so often try to force things into existence by our sheer efforts? 3. How does the parable of sowing seed underscore God’s sovereignty? 4. What do these parables teach us about how God…
Why Serve God? | Malachi 3:13-18
Listen as Pastor Ron continues our series in Malachi, “Why So Apathetic?”. How are we motivated to serve God? Watch Here Discussion Questions 1. Why do you think so many pastors leave the ministry? 2. Why are believers hesitant to step forward to serve the Lord? 3. Has the church fostered a self centered christianity? If so, how? 4. What rewards are there for serving God?