Listen to Bible-based and scripturally-sound sermons preached during the worship services of the Ninth Avenue Church of Christ, located in Haleyville, Alabama. All sermons are by our Preaching Minister, Matthew Balentine, unless otherwise indicated. Our Youth Minister is Josh Wade.
What does the Bible actually teach about baptism and salvation?
In this sermon from Ephesians 4, Mark 16, Acts 2, and 1 Peter 3, we look closely at the connection between belief, repentance, baptism, forgiveness of sins, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. This message also highlights an important truth: baptism was meant to unite believers, not divide them.
As the church carries out the gospel message, we must be clear about what Jesus taught and what the apostles preached. This sermon explores how baptism fits into God’s plan of salvation and why it remains such an essential part of the Christian message.
In this episode, we discuss:
The unity of the Spirit in Ephesians 4
Jesus’ words in Mark 16:15–16
Peter’s message in Acts 2:38
The promise of forgiveness and the Holy Spirit
How baptism connects us to the family of God
This is part one of a message centered on the gospel, salvation, and what it means to respond faithfully to Jesus.
Scripture References:
Ephesians 4:1–6
Mark 16:15–16
Acts 2:37–39
Ephesians 1:13–14
1 Peter 3:20–21
12 Apr 2026
Find Your Jerusalem | Where the Great Commission Begins
What if living the Great Commission starts closer than you think?
In this message from Acts 1, we explore Jesus’ words to His disciples that they would be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Before the mission spread outward, it began in a familiar place. That same pattern still matters today: before we think about reaching the world, we must first notice the people God has already placed in our everyday lives.
This sermon challenges us to see that our “Jerusalem” is not just a location. It is our home, our family, our workplace, our neighborhood, and the routines of daily life. Sharing our faith does not start with having every answer. It starts with telling the story of what Jesus has done for us and being willing to take the next faithful step.
You will be encouraged to think about your own story, identify where God has been at work in your life, and ask who in your world may need to hear about Him. The call of Jesus is still clear: go. But often, going starts by going across the street.
This episode includes:
A practical look at Acts 1:8
The meaning of “your Jerusalem”
Why faith-sharing begins with personal experience
A simple challenge to notice one person and take one step
A reminder that our role is to plant and water while God gives the increase
29 Mar 2026
Distracted from What Matters Most? | The Great Commission Re-centered (Matthew 28:18–20)
It’s easy to get distracted—even in our faith.
In this message, we take a hard and honest look at how “good things” can quietly pull us away from the most important thing Jesus ever commanded: making disciples.
Rooted in Matthew 28:18–20, this sermon challenges us to examine our priorities as individuals and as a church. Are we busy… or are we truly fulfilling our purpose?
Through personal insight, biblical teaching, and practical application, this episode will help you:
Recognize the distractions that compete for your attention
Rediscover the true mission of the church
Understand your personal role in disciple-making
Embrace both baptism and ongoing spiritual growth
Step out in faith—even when doubt is present
This isn’t just a message about the church—it’s a call to every believer.
If it’s the church’s responsibility, then it’s my responsibility.
Scripture
Matthew 28:18–20
Listen & Reflect
Take a few moments today to reflect on this question:
Have I become distracted from what matters most?
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5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
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