Morning Service Live Stream

Sep 29, 2024

This week’s service at Antioch Baptist Church features a direct and challenging message, as we continue a sermon series in the Gospel of John. The message focuses on the hypocrisy of the Jewish leaders and the central question posed by Pilate: "What is truth?"


In this service:

- Worship Music: The service includes a moving special by a soloist, "The Truth Is," which echoes the sermon's theme of finding identity in Christ rather than in worldly lies.

- Children's Corner: The children's leader engages the kids with a simple question: "What is courage?" and uses 1 Corinthians 16:13 to teach them that true courage and strength come from God, not from ourselves. The lesson is a great reminder that with God's help, we can be brave in any situation.

- Main Message: Pastor Bruce preaches from John 18:28-40, highlighting the contrast between Jesus, who embodies truth, and the religious and political leaders who reject it. He calls out the hypocrisy of the Jewish leaders who were more concerned with ritualistic cleanliness than with justice, and the indecision of Pilate, who was confronted with the truth but chose to release Barabbas instead.


This sermon challenges listeners to face the same question Pilate did, urging them to choose Christ, the one true Son of the Father, over the empty promises of the world.


Key Moments & Themes:

- The Hypocrisy of Ritual: The sermon begins by pointing out the irony of the religious leaders, who refused to enter Pilate’s courtroom to avoid ceremonial defilement while planning an unjust murder.

- Legalism vs. Liberalism: The message explores the dangers of two extremes in faith: legalism, which judges others by external rules, and liberalism, which disregards God's Word.

- "What Is Truth?": Pastor Bruce drives home the point that truth isn't an abstract concept; it is a person—Jesus Christ. He explains that Pilate's question is one that everyone must answer for themselves.

- Jesus or Barabbas?: The sermon concludes with a powerful comparison between Jesus (the true Son of the Father) and Barabbas (the false son of the father), forcing each listener to consider who they would choose.


Call to Action:

Like Pilate, you must face the question: "What is truth?" We invite you to surrender to Jesus today and discover the freedom that comes from knowing the Son of the Father. If you have questions about your faith, please reach out to us—we would love to talk with you.