Western Hills Church Of Christ, Temple

Scripture:  Esther 4:14-16,Esther 6:6-10, Esther 9:20-22, Galatians 3:13, Philippians 2:6-11 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: The sermon focuses on the story of Esther and how God's providence works even when He seems silent. It highlights the key characters—King Xerxes, Esther, Mordecai, and Haman—and the unfolding drama of Haman's plot to destroy the Jews, which is ultimately overturned through Esther's courage and divine intervention. Scott emphasizes three key takeaways: God’s silence does not mean His absence, the importance of having wise counsel like Mordecai, and the danger of settling for a "shadow mission" rather than God's true purpose. Esther’s willingness to risk her life for her people mirrors Christ’s sacrifice, as Jesus stepped down from glory to save humanity. Ultimately, the sermon challenges listeners to reflect on their own divine opportunities and to use them for God's purpose rather than personal comfort.

Scriptures:  Ezra 1:1-4, Ezra 4:24, Haggai 1:2-9, Haggai 2:6-7, John 2:19-21, Ephesians 2:19-22 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary:  This sermon focuses on the concept of completing the work God has started in us, drawing parallels to the Israelites rebuilding the temple under Ezra and Haggai's leadership. It highlights how the people initially began rebuilding the temple with enthusiasm but were distracted by opposition and personal priorities, leaving God's work unfinished for years. Scott connects this to modern life, urging us to reflect on what God has called us to do but left incomplete, whether in our faith journey, relationships, or ministries. The temple's significance is traced from a physical structure to Jesus, who represents God's ultimate presence and atonement, and finally to believers as the spiritual temple, carrying God's presence to the world. Scott closes with a call to refocus on God's agenda, resist distractions, and trust in His promise to complete the good work He began in us.

Scripture:  Daniel 1:1-6, Daniel 1:8, Daniel 2:14, Daniel 3:16-18, Isaiah 43:2, Daniel 6:5, Daniel 8:10 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: This sermon focuses on living faithfully as Christians in a culture that feels foreign or opposed to God’s values, using the story of Daniel and his friends in Babylon as an example. It emphasizes four key tips: maintain hope and trust in God’s word, resist bitterness, remain respectful even in challenging circumstances, and develop a consistent prayer life. The sermon illustrates these points with stories of Daniel and his friends standing firm in their faith, refusing to bow to cultural pressures, and showing integrity, even when faced with dire consequences. The central reminder is that this world is not our true home; believers are ambassadors of God's kingdom in a foreign land. Ultimately, the message encourages reliance on God's presence during trials and trust in His guidance for living faithfully in any circumstance.

Scripture:  Jeremiah 2:13, Lamentations 3:22-24, Ezekiel 37:11-14,  Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: This sermon emphasizes the faithfulness of God even in challenging and dark seasons of life. It recounts the story of the Israelites during their exile, focusing on the messages of the prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel. The central theme is that God's discipline is not meant to punish but to restore and transform, shaping character over comfort. Despite their rebellion and suffering, the sermon underscores that God's love and mercy are constant, with new opportunities for hope and renewal each day. Ultimately, it challenges listeners to reflect on whether Jesus is enough for them, inviting them to find hope and restoration in Him even during trials.

Scripture:  Matthew 16:13-20, Matthew 28:16-20, Acts 1:6-8, 1 Peter 2:4-10 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary:  The sermon emphasizes the enduring relevance of the church in 2025, built on an unshakable foundation—Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God. It highlights the church's unstoppable mission to make and grow disciples, rooted in the teachings of Jesus and empowered by the Holy Spirit.  Scott talks about personal experiences, societal challenges, and biblical principles to argue that the church remains a vital community for spreading hope, love, and truth in a world often plagued by uncertainty. Through initiatives like "Vision 5," the church engages in outreach, diversity, and new church planting efforts, reinforcing its role as a beacon of light. Finally, the message calls for trust in God's power to accomplish the seemingly impossible, urging the church to live boldly and faithfully as His chosen people.   4o

Scripture:  1 Kings 16:29-33, 1 Kings 17:1,  1 Kings 18:16-26, 1 Kings 18:30-39, John 14:6 Speaker:  Scott Seela Summary: The sermon centers on the story of Elijah challenging the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, emphasizing the need for decisive faith in God. It begins by highlighting Israel's wavering between worshiping God and Baal, which Elijah calls out as dangerous indecision. Through a dramatic showdown, Elijah proves God's sovereignty when fire from heaven consumes his water-drenched offering, while Baal's prophets receive no response. The sermon draws a parallel to modern life, urging believers to reject false gods like wealth, pleasure, or status, which cannot fulfill or save. Ultimately, it emphasizes that Jesus is the only way to true life, calling for complete devotion to Him alone.

Scripture:  Isaiah 6:1-8, Isaiah 7:14, Isaiah 53:1-5 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: The sermon begins with a story illustrating how we often mistake provision for the provider, setting the stage for the central message: God's sovereignty and presence amidst uncertainty and darkness. Drawing from Isaiah 6, it emphasizes that while earthly powers and securities may falter, God remains "high and exalted," in control, and present in the midst of life's chaos. The prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, foretelling Emmanuel, "God with us," reinforces the Christmas message of God stepping into humanity's mess, embodying love and healing. Isaiah's vision reveals God's holiness and our need for cleansing, symbolizing how God calls and cleanses those He chooses, offering redemption and purpose. Ultimately, the sermon ties the Christmas story to God's profound love, bringing healing and hope into our brokenness, epitomized in the advent of Christ.

Scripture:  1Kings 12:1-14, 1 Kings 12:25-31, Ephesians 2:14-16 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary:  The sermon, "Going Dark," explores themes of insecurity, division, and redemption through the story of two kings, Rehoboam and Jeroboam, from 1 Kings. It highlights how their insecurities and failure to seek God's guidance led to a divided kingdom and spiritual darkness, illustrating the dangers of leading from insecurity rather than confidence in God. Scott draws parallels to modern life, urging individuals to seek godly counsel, avoid idolatry by reducing God to a single characteristic, and recognize how personal insecurities can affect leadership. The message culminates in the hope of Jesus as the "better King," who reconciles humanity, bringing light and unity where there was once darkness and division. The sermon concludes with a call for personal reflection, reconciliation, and a deeper understanding of Christ's sacrificial love as the ultimate unifier.

Scripture: 1 Kings 3:5-14, 1 Kings 4:29-34, James 1:5, Proverbs 1:7, 1 Kings 11:1-4, Hebrews 12:1 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary:  The sermon emphasizes the journey of wisdom and obedience to God, using the story of Solomon as a central theme. It explores how Solomon, despite his initial humility and prayer for a "listening heart," eventually fell into disobedience, influenced by distractions and external pressures. The message underscores that true wisdom begins with submission to God's will and the acknowledgment that human understanding is limited. Solomon's rise and fall illustrate the importance of remaining steadfast in faith and obedience throughout life. The sermon concludes by pointing to Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of wisdom and a perfect King, encouraging believers to seek God's wisdom daily and to finish their spiritual race strong, regardless of scars or challenges.

Scripture:  2 Samuel 11-12 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: This sermon discusses King David's downfall, emphasizing the perils of unchecked sin and the need for repentance. David's story, involving Bathsheba and Uriah, illustrates how sin begins subtly but can grow into significant consequences when left unaddressed. The speaker draws parallels to modern struggles, highlighting the importance of acknowledging sin and seeking forgiveness rather than hiding or rationalizing it. Nathan's confrontation with David serves as a reminder of the necessity of accountability and openness to correction. Ultimately, the sermon underscores God's transformative grace, offering not only forgiveness but a renewed heart through Christ, who bore the consequences of humanity's sins on the cross.

Scripture:  1 Samuel 17 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: Scott Meyer, Lead Minister, brings a message from Chapter 11 of THE STORY. The sermon revolves around the story of David and Goliath as a metaphor for faith, courage, and trust in God during life's battles. Scott emphasizes that every battle we face, no matter how daunting, is an opportunity for God to demonstrate His faithfulness, as seen in David's trust in God despite overwhelming odds. David's victory is not just about courage but about reliance on God's past faithfulness to face present challenges, inspiring others to trust in God as well. The ultimate message compares David to Jesus, identifying Jesus as the "Shepherd King" who faces and defeats the greatest enemies—sin and death—on behalf of humanity. Seeing Jesus as the source of victory in our life's battles and sharing our faith stories is inspiring and uplifting to others as all of us seek to trust God completely.

Scripture:  1 Samuel 1:1-20; 1 Samuel 8:4-7; 1 Samuel 8:10-18 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary:  This sermon explores themes of prayer, faith, and waiting on God through the story of Hannah in the Bible. Hannah, who longed for a child, persistently prayed to God even as years passed without an answer, demonstrating the importance of leaning into God rather than giving up when prayers seem unanswered. Scott encourages listeners to hold onto faith and embrace God's peace while waiting for His provision, emphasizing that peace can come even before answers do. The sermon also contrasts Hannah's faithful waiting with Israel's demand for an earthly king, illustrating how wanting immediate answers in our lives can lead to unintended consequences. Ultimately, the message urges believers to stay close to God during periods of waiting, trusting in His presence and the Holy Spirit’s intercession in times of need.

Scripture:  Book of Ruth Speaker:  Scott Seela Summary: The sermon is a retelling of the story of Ruth, highlighting her loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi and her faith in God. When Naomi loses her husband and sons in Moab, she decides to return to Bethlehem, and Ruth pledges to stay by her side, adopting Naomi’s people and God. In Bethlehem, Ruth meets Boaz, who notices her dedication and eventually fulfills the role of "guardian redeemer," ensuring Ruth and Naomi’s welfare by marrying Ruth. The story emphasizes living out faith in daily life, like Boaz, who acts with integrity and kindness in a selfish world. Ultimately, Boaz and Ruth's faithfulness leads to a legacy culminating in King David, reminding listeners to honor God through everyday acts, trusting that their impact will be seen, if not now, then in eternity.

Scripture:  Judges 2:10-16, Judges 10:16, Judges 2:10, Deuteronomy 6:4-7, Judges 21:25, Romans 5:8 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: This sermon emphasizes the cycle of Israel's rebellion, repentance, and deliverance in the Book of Judges. It begins by illustrating how Israel repeatedly turns away from God, faces oppression, and then cries out for rescue, only to fall back into idolatry once a judge dies. Scott warns that neglecting God's instructions can lead to decay and emphasizes the importance of passing faith to the next generation. He draws a parallel to modern-day idolatry, urging believers to put their hope in Jesus rather than political systems or personal idols. The sermon concludes by affirming Jesus as the ultimate, perfect judge who breaks this cycle by shedding His own blood for our deliverance.

Scripture:  Joshua 3:1-9; Joshua 3:15-16; Proverbs3:5-6; Matthew  6:33; Philippians 4:6-7; Joshua 1:6; Joshua 2:9-11; Romans 8:37-39 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: The sermon focuses on the theme of stepping out in faith to claim the promises of God. Scott begins by telling the story of a man who lost access to his cryptocurrency, using it as a metaphor for how we sometimes struggle to access what God has promised us. The sermon is centered around the Israelites entering the Promised Land in the book of Joshua, emphasizing that while God promised them the land, they had to take action, such as crossing the Jordan River and conquering Jericho, to claim it. The concept of "walking out the premise" is introduced, which means that in order to receive God's promises, we must take steps of faith. Scott also highlights Rahab's faith and how she grasped God's promise, leading to her significant role in biblical history, and concludes by encouraging listeners to trust in God's promises and be courageous in their battl

Scripture:  Numbers 11:4-6;Numbers 14:2-4;Numbers 14:26-35;Numbers 21:4-9;    John 3:14-15 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: As the Israelites continue their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, they face a time of wandering and complaining. Their frustrations are very much like our own when we take a family road trip. The grumbling begins soon after the departure. The Israelites grumbled despite God’s provision of numerous blessings like the manna from heaven. They forgot as we often do that God not only delivers us from something (like the Israelites slavery in Egypt) but also into something greater, though this process often involves difficult "wilderness" periods of preparation and transformation. Our decision must be to trust in God's plan, even when the journey feels long or challenging. God forms and prepares His people through hardships. Our response to our difficulties is to remind ourselves that we have received the greatest gift, redemption through Jesus remembering that he succeeded in the wilde

Scripture: Exodus 24:8;Exodus 25:8;Genesis 34:6-7;Exodus 34:10;Exodus 34:14;Exodus 40:34-35;John 1:14;I Corinthians 3:16;Ephesians 1:13-14 Speaker:  Justin Hammond, Youth Minister Summary:  Justin Hammond, Youth Minister, brings a message from Chapter 5 of THE STORY. This message is focused on the theme of God’s presence and faithfulness, using the narrative of the Israelites in Exodus as a foundation. It begins by reflecting on the journey of the Israelites, especially in Exodus 24-25, and how God made a covenant with them through Moses, despite their lack of prior faithfulness or action. God is faithful even in the face of the Israelites’ failure. After their idol worship, God still promises to dwell with them, symbolized by the construction of the Tabernacle. Justin relates this to the New Testament, where God's presence is manifested in the form of Jesus Christ, and later, the Holy Spirit, which now dwells in believers. Justin encourages patience and trust in God's timing and knowing that God is always pr

Scripture:  Exodus 2:7-10, Exodus 3:13-14, Exodus 5:2, Exodus 6:6-8, Exodus 4:22-23, Exodus 12:12-13, Exodus 7:12, I Corinthians 5:7, Ephesians 1:7 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary:  The sermon reflects on the identity of God and His power to deliver His people, focusing on the story of Moses and the Exodus. It begins by addressing the question, "Who is God?" and explains that God consistently reveals Himself through His actions, as seen in Joseph’s story and later in Moses' life. Moses is delivered from his own self-doubt and then tasked with delivering the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. The sermon emphasizes how God's miracles, including the ten plagues and the parting of the Red Sea, answered Pharaoh's challenge, "Who is the Lord?" Finally, the sermon connects the Exodus to Jesus' sacrifice, portraying Christ as the ultimate Passover Lamb, bringing redemption and deliverance to all.

Series:  THE STORY:  The Lord is With You Scripture:  Genesis 39:17-20; Genesis 40:23; Genesis 50:15-21;                    Genesis 50:24-26; Hebrews 11:22 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: This sermon focuses on the story of Joseph from the book of Genesis and draws lessons from his experiences of betrayal, adversity, and faithfulness. You will notice that even when Joseph faced great hardships—being sold into slavery, falsely accused, imprisoned, and forgotten—God was with him. One key point is that being in God's will often takes us outside of our comfort zones, and like Joseph, we are called to maintain integrity and use our gifts even in difficult and obscure circumstances. The sermon emphasizes that we can grow old without becoming angry, and that God can turn our trials into blessings for others, as seen in Joseph's role in saving many lives. Finally, it encourages hope by reminding listeners that this life is not the end and that God's promises will ultimately be fulfilled, just as Joseph believed in the

Series:  THE STORY Scripture:  Genesis 12:1-3; Genesis 15:1-6; Romans 4:18-25; Genesis 22:13-14 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: In this message, the story of the life of Abraham is told with a focus on understanding how its various parts are interconnected and ultimately point to Jesus. The narrative highlights Abraham's journey, starting with God’s promise to him and his wife, Sarah, to have a child despite their old age, leading to the birth of Isaac. Abraham demonstrates the importance of faith and obedience, even when God's commands, such as the call to sacrifice of Isaac, seem incomprehensible.  In this message we find encouragement to trust in God's provision, drawing parallels between Abraham’s story and the sacrifice of Jesus, portraying the theme of God using imperfect people to fulfill His greater purpose.