Lexington Baptist Temple

In this powerful message, Pastor Chris Rieber takes us deep into Luke 12 to explore Jesus’ call to be "rich toward God." In a world that constantly urges us to build our own empires and store up treasures for ourselves, this sermon flips that narrative on its head—inviting us to embrace the upside-down Kingdom of God. Pastor Chris unpacks what it means to reject the temporary riches of the flesh and instead invest in what truly matters: God's eternal Kingdom. Whether you're struggling with materialism, seeking deeper purpose, or wanting to align your heart more fully with God's values, this message will challenge and encourage you to live generously, dependently, and eternally minded. Key Themes: The danger of earthly greed Eternal perspective vs. temporary gain Kingdom-minded generosity Living as a steward, not an owner Listen in and be reminded of what it truly means to be rich—in the ways that matter most.

Ever felt like you're just going through the motions in your faith? In this challenging episode, Pastor Derek Holmes invites us to an uncomfortable dinner party recorded in Luke 11:37-12:3. Jesus, as the guest of honor, directly confronts his Pharisee hosts, revealing their hypocrisy. He exposes how they meticulously cultivate an outward appearance of righteousness while their hearts remain untouched by true holiness. But the Pharisees aren't the only ones under scrutiny. Jesus then turns to the Scribes, the religious lawyers of the day, and uncovers how their rigid legalism was burdening and oppressing the very people they were meant to guide. Both groups, Pastor Holmes explains, were practicing a "tainted religion" – one that prioritized external show over internal transformation. Join us for "Behind the Mask" as Pastor Holmes unpacks this potent encounter. Discover why true Christianity must go more than skin deep. It's a call to examine our own hearts and ensure our faith is genuine, gives all ho

In this sermon based on Luke 11:14-36, we witness Jesus displaying His divine authority by casting out a demon. The immediate reactions reveal a crucial truth: Jesus elicits a response. Some were amazed and believed, others slandered Him by attributing His power to evil, and still others remained skeptical, demanding further proof. Jesus' response cuts to the heart of the matter, revealing that humanity is caught between two warring kingdoms: the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Darkness. Every individual must choose which kingdom they will align with. Furthermore, Jesus calls us to actively participate in gathering people into His Kingdom, rather than scattering them away. We are incredibly blessed in Christ! This message explores four urgent blessings Jesus provides: His Power over Darkness: Demonstrating His complete authority over evil forces. His Word to Guide Us: Providing the truth and direction we desperately need. The Gospel to Share: Equipping us with the good news of salvation. His Light to Shi

In a world that constantly demands our attention, how do we discern what truly matters? Join Pastor Derek Holmes as he delves into the familiar yet profoundly insightful story of Mary and Martha from Luke 10:38-42. In this powerful sermon, "You're Gonna Wanna Sit Down For This," Pastor Holmes reveals how our busyness, even when focused on seemingly good and important tasks, can inadvertently pull us away from the most vital priority: our intimate relationship with Christ. Discover the "one thing" that truly matters and learn how to prioritize intentional time with Jesus amidst life's endless distractions. Don't just listen – sit down, reflect, and reset your focus on what truly nourishes your soul.

In this powerful message, "A MasterClass in Prayer," Pastor Derek Holmes unpacks Jesus’ response to one of the most profound requests ever made: “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1-13). What unfolds is not just a model for prayer, but a window into the very heart of God. Pastor Derek reminds us that prayer isn’t merely a transaction—about getting what we want from God—but a transformation, where we are drawn closer to the Father’s will and presence. Whether you’re new to prayer or seeking a deeper connection with God, this episode invites you to reimagine prayer as a life-shaping relationship, not a religious ritual.

What does it truly mean to love your neighbor as yourself? In this sermon based on Luke 10:1-37, Pastor Chris Rieber examines Jesus' powerful parable of the Good Samaritan. Discover the urgency behind the second Great Commandment and why, as Christians, we cannot pick and choose who receives our love and compassion. Pastor Rieber emphasizes that loving everyone as an image-bearer of God, regardless of differences or prejudice, is the mark of a true believer. Learn how Jesus' final instruction in the passage – "Go and do the same" – calls us to a love that is active, sacrificial, and extends even when inconvenient.

Join us as Pastor Chris Rieber explores the powerful encounter on the road to Emmaus from Luke 24. Walk alongside two disciples whose hope was shattered by the crucifixion, leaving them depressed and doubting the resurrection claims. Discover how a personal meeting with the risen Jesus fundamentally changed everything for them. In this message, Pastor Chris reveals how a living hope in a resurrected Savior directly addresses the anxieties, depression, and doubts we face in life. Learn how the resurrection of Christ offers profound and lasting hope, restoring it to humanity and to your own life today.

What does true kingship look like? In this powerful sermon, Pastor Chris Rieber dives into Luke 19, exploring Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem and the profound message it holds for us today. The crowds laid down palm branches, expecting a conquering hero, a king like those they knew in the world. But Jesus' coronation was far from conventional. His kingdom, Pastor Chris explains, is not of this world, but a spiritual and eternal realm that challenges our earthly expectations. Discover how the Kingdom of God operates on a different plane, one that is often "upside down" compared to the kingdoms we see around us. Join us as we unpack the deeper meaning of Jesus' arrival and learn how His unconventional coronation reveals the true nature of His reign. Prepare to be challenged and inspired as Pastor Chris unpacks the profound truth of Jesus' kingdom.

Join us this week as Pastor Chris Rieber unpacks the powerful message of Luke 9 in his sermon, "Proclaiming the Kingdom of God." Discover the essential foundations that underpin God's Kingdom as we explore four key principles: the transformative power of Service, the strength found in Unity, the radical choice to embrace Love over Hate, and the life-altering commitment of Full Devotion to Christ. Whether you're seeking deeper understanding or a fresh perspective on these timeless truths, this sermon will challenge and inspire you to live a life that reflects the heart of the Kingdom. Tune in and be equipped to proclaim the Kingdom of God in your daily walk.

Episode Title: Are You Listening? Part 2 – Christ’s Desire for Those Who Hear His Word In this powerful continuation of Are You Listening?, we dive into Luke 8:22-56, where Jesus speaks loudly—not just with words, but through miracles. From calming the storm with His voice to setting a man free from demonic oppression, healing a woman’s long-standing affliction, and restoring life to Jairus' daughter, Christ reveals His desire for those who hear Him. Through these miraculous moments, we see that His Word:

In this episode, Pastor Derek dives into Luke 8:1-21 and explore one of Jesus’ most well-known parables — the Parable of the Sower. But beyond the familiar imagery of seeds and soils, this passage offers profound truths about faith, obedience, and how we respond to the Gospel. Are we merely hearing, or are we truly listening? Are Christ’s words taking root in our hearts, or are distractions, doubts, and spiritual warfare choking them out? Join us as we unpack: Why Jesus emphasized hearing AND doing His Word The dangers of passive listening and shallow faith How the spiritual enemies of the world, flesh, and devil wage war against the Word in our lives What it looks like to cultivate "good soil" that bears lasting, spiritual fruit The role of partnership and obedience in spreading the Gospel Tune in and be challenged to not only hear Christ’s words but to let them transform you from the inside out.

In this episode, Pastor Derek continues his exploration of Luke 7 with "Just Say The Word, Part 2." He delves deeper into the powerful encounters where Jesus' words brought hope and forgiveness. We'll examine Christ's reassuring message to John the Baptist, amidst his doubts, and His compassionate words of forgiveness to the woman who washed His feet. Through these stories, Pastor Derek emphasizes the vital importance of not just hearing the words of Christ, but truly trusting and obeying them. Discover how Jesus' words can transform your life today.

Dive into Luke 7 with Pastor Derek as we explore the profound power of Jesus' words in "Just Say The Word." This week, we examine how Christ's authority and life-giving power are revealed through two remarkable encounters: the healing of a centurion's servant and the raising of a widow's son. Pastor Derek unpacks the significance of Christ's words, highlighting their authority over sickness, death, and even our very souls. We'll see how a Roman centurion, a man of authority himself, recognized the ultimate authority of Jesus, understanding that "say the word, and my servant will be healed." Then, witness the life-transforming power as Jesus speaks to a dead young man, restoring him to his grieving mother, demonstrating that Christ's words bring not just physical healing, but eternal life. This sermon challenges us to consider: Do we truly believe in the authority of Christ's words? Do we heed them, knowing they hold the power to change everything? Discover how, in a world filled with noise, the words of Jes

In this impactful sermon, Pastor Chris Rieber unpacks Jesus’ parable of the wise and foolish builders, revealing the critical importance of building our lives on a deep, unshakable foundation—the Word of God. With Jesus’ piercing question, “Why do you call me Lord and do not do the words I say?”, we are challenged to examine our obedience to His truth. Are we merely hearing, or are we truly living by His Word? Join us as we explore how Scripture strengthens, guides, and deepens our relationship with Christ, ensuring that when storms come, we stand firm.

In this powerful continuation of New Wineskins, Pastor Chris Rieber takes a deep dive into Christ’s analogy of Old and New Wineskins. In Part 3, we explore how Jesus didn’t come to patch up the old but to make everything new. Are we holding onto outdated mindsets, traditions, or ways of thinking that hinder God’s transformative work in our lives? Discover what it truly means to embrace the newness of Christ and walk in the fullness of His purpose. Tune in and be challenged to step into the fresh outpouring of God’s grace!

Episode Title: New Wineskins, Part 2 In this episode, Pastor Chris continues exploring Jesus’ powerful metaphor of New and Old Wineskins. Through this teaching, we see how Jesus declares Himself as the true Messiah—one who holds all authority and power to redeem us. When we come to Him, He doesn’t just patch up our old ways; He makes us completely new. How does this truth shape our daily lives? How are we called to embrace the transformation He offers? Join us as we dive deeper into the life-changing power of Jesus and what it means to live in the newness of His grace. Listen now and be encouraged!

In this sermon, Pastor Chris Rieber unpacks Luke 5:36-39, where Jesus shares two parables to illustrate the authority He desires to have over a disciple’s life. When we come to know Him as Savior and Lord, everything changes. Yet, just as the Pharisees wrestled with Jesus’ fulfillment of the Old Testament Law, we too can struggle with fully surrendering to His leadership. This passage serves as a key foundation for all that Jesus will teach in Luke 6, challenging us to embrace the new life He offers. Tune in to be encouraged and challenged in your walk with Christ!

In this episode, Pastor Derek Holmes continues his powerful sermon series on The Transformative Holiness of Christ, diving deeper into Luke 5:17-36. Building on last week's message, we explore two more remarkable scenes from Christ’s earthly ministry—His healing of the paralyzed man brought by four faithful friends and His calling of Matthew, the tax collector, to be His disciple. Through these moments, we see the holiness of Christ on full display: His divine authority to forgive sins and His call for radical repentance and total surrender. Join us as we reflect on how Christ’s holiness not only transforms lives in Scripture but continues to change us today. Don’t miss this inspiring message! Subscribe and share with those who need encouragement in their faith journey.

Podcast Episode: "The Transformative Holiness of Christ" In this sermon, Pastor Derek Holmes unpacks Luke 5:1-16, exploring two key moments in Jesus’ ministry: the calling of Peter, James, and John, and the healing of the leper. Through these vivid scenes, Pastor Derek reveals how the holiness of Christ transforms lives. We learn that Jesus’ holiness shines a light on our unholiness, showing us our deep need for Him. Yet, it doesn’t stop there—His holiness cleanses us, making us acceptable before a Holy God. Be encouraged as you discover how Jesus’ touch changes sinners into the holy, bringing hope, redemption, and a new life in Him. Tune in to see how the holiness of Christ continues to transform hearts today.

In this powerful sermon, Pastor Derek explores the contrasting responses to Jesus' message and presence in two key cities: Nazareth and Capernaum. In Luke 4:14-44, we see how one city rejected Jesus as the Messiah, while the other embraced Him with open arms and full faith. Through this contrast, Pastor Derek delves into the deeper lessons we can learn from their reactions—challenging us to examine our own hearts and how we respond to Christ’s invitation. As we reflect on the rejection of Jesus in His hometown of Nazareth, Pastor Derek highlights the danger of familiarity and unbelief. In contrast, the reception of Jesus in Capernaum serves as a powerful example of faith and openness to God's transformative power. Through these two cities, we learn valuable applications for our daily lives—how we might either resist or receive the life-changing message of the Gospel, and what it means to fully welcome Jesus into every area of our lives. Join us as we reflect on the lessons from this piv