First Baptist Church Columbia (sc)

There is joy within a praying church. Today, Dr. Estep reminds us of the importance of fellowship and prayer within the body of believers.

Many of us have missed out of some of life's greatest rewards because of fear. But if we allow God to lead our life, we have nothing to fear. Jesus said "I have come so that they might have life and might have it abundantly." Trust in Jesus to lead you through troubled waters.

Have you ever feel like a baseball player? - More strikes than hits. Today, Dr. Estep reminds us that we should keep trying - and to place a priority on the "majors" - especially our relationship with God. Perhaps it is time to finish some unfinished business. What is your relationship with the Lord?

Oftentimes we find ourselves running on empty, trying to accomplish things on our own power instead relying on God's power. Rev. Banks shares the story of an Old Testament man who ran out of God's power - and was running on empty.

During this Christmas Season, Dr. Estep reminds us to be careful not to forget the true meaning of Christmas.

Christmas is a time of "quick cash and the mad dash." For many, the days of Christmas are not so merry because of stress. But, the Bible promises us wings to overcome adversity, wonderful opportunities and the necessities of life.

The Apostle Paul said: "I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified." Our commitment to missions should be "single-minded." Do you see the need? Do you hear the call? Will you meet the need?

During this Thanksgiving season, Dr. Estep reminds us that thanks-giving is more than saying "thanks." Thanks-giving to God is a testimony of our heart and is evidenced by our giving back to the Lord.

Vision motivates the destiny of our church. As we focus on the future of First Baptist Church, Dr. Estep reminds us of three questions that we should ask while commiting ourselves to the body of the church.

God has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness. Having been separated into the Wheat and Tares, our righteousness is dependent on one Man...Jesus Christ. In today's message, Dr. Estep reminds us that we are all sinners and that our need of Jesus will never change. Do you know Him?

In light of the tragic fire that took the lives of 7 college students, 6 of them from the University of South Carolina, Dr. Estep talks about how to handle tough situations when they come our way.

Most of us have had certain people or situations that have made a profound impact on our lives. Rev. Jere Wilson shares with us four steps for making an impact on others. He challenges us to live our lives consistent with the life of Jesus and be an example to others.

Jesus's parable of the Pearl describes the Church as the "pearl of great value." He valued the Church so much that He gave His life for Her members. Dr. Estep asks the question: "Do you love the Church as Jesus loves the Church?"

Jesus' parable of the Hidden Treasure is a parable of hope. Dr. Estep teaches us that while the treasure was once lost, Jesus has re-established the treasure. God has given everything - including His only son - to redeem you.

In Scripture, leaven is always represented as being evil and worldly. Today's society is filled with the "leaven" of materialism, corruption, formalism, legalism, rationalism and immorality. Dr. Estep reminds us to guard against leaven within the church and to commit to God's word. Is there any leaven within your life?

Joe White, president of Kanakuk Kamps, is our guest speaker today. His powerful and emotional message presents the gospel of Jesus Christ and inspires hundreds of sorority and fraternity members from the University of South Carolina. You do not want to miss this inspiring message!

Jesus used the example of a mustard seed as an interesting and insightful teaching tool. Dr. Estep reminds us that like the mustard seed, the simplicity of the Gospel is unimpressive. However, the Gospel contains great power to change lives and to change our world.

Jesus uses an agricultural example to describe the condition of the world. His parable is just as true today as it was 2000 years ago. Dr. Estep's message explains that only God can accurately judge between the world's "wheat and tares." How will you be judged?

"The Seed"

Dr. Estep talks about how work could lead to ingoring eternity if you are not carefull. Work provides possessions which can tempt us to be selfish and forget about the things in life that really matter, like where we will spend eternity.