A Portrait of the Heavenly City

Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Nov 2, 2025

Series: The Hope of Heaven

Bible text: Revelation 21

Introduction

  • Earthly cities—no matter how great—cannot compare with the city God is preparing for His children.

  • The “New Jerusalem” is a real, physical city where God and His people will dwell forever

  • Read Revelation 3:12; Revelation 21:2

  • During the Millennium, the city will hover above the earth; in the eternal state, it will rest on the renewed earth as the center of eternal life.

I. The Dimensions of the City – Revelation 21:15–16

  • The city is a perfect cube, measuring 1,500 miles in length, width, and height — large enough for all believers of all time.

  • Estimated to hold billions of people comfortably.

  • The design reflects the Holy of Holies, also a cube (1 Kings 6:20), emphasizing God’s eternal presence with His people (Revelation 21:3).

II. The Description of the City

A. The Holy City – Revelation 21:2

  • A city entirely without sin, corruption, or deceit — holy because everyone in it will be holy.

  • Only those cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ will enter

“A holy city will be one in which no lie will be uttered in 100 million years, no evil word will ever be spoken. No shady business deals will ever be discussed, no unclean picture will ever be seen, no corruption of life will ever be manifest. It will be holy because everyone in it will be holy.”​ Wycliffe Bible Commentary

B. The Freedom from Pain – Revelation 21:4

  • “God shall wipe away all tears.”

  • No more sorrow, pain, regret, or death; even painful memories will be gone.

C. The Pearly Gates – Revelation 21:12, 17–18, 21

  • Twelve gates inscribed with the names of Israel’s tribes.

  • Each gate is made of a single pearl, reminding us that entry into heaven was bought through Christ’s suffering.

D. The Foundations of Precious Stones – Revelation 21:19–20

  • Twelve foundation layers of dazzling gemstones (jasper, sapphire, emerald, amethyst, etc.), symbolizing eternal beauty and glory.

E. The Streets of Gold – Revelation 21:21

  • Transparent golden streets reflect the glory of God.

  • In heaven, believers will walk forever in perfect fellowship and obedience with Him.

F. The Lamb Is the Light – Revelation 21:23; Isaiah 60:19

  • No sun or moon—the Lamb (Jesus Christ) is its light.

  • The entire city radiates with the glory of God (1 Corinthians 2:9).

G. The River of Life – Revelation 22:1–2

  • A River in Scripture symbolizes 2 things: 

    1. Pleasure – Psalm 36:8

    2. Prosperity – Psalm 1:3

  • Life in God’s city will be full of purity, pleasure, and abundance.

III. The Denial to the City – Revelation 21:8, 27

  • Not everyone will enter heaven.

  • Those who live unrepentantly in sin will be cast into the lake of fire.

  • Entry is reserved for those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

  • Our mission: to be Christ’s ambassadors, pointing others toward heaven (2 Corinthians 5:20).

Conclusion

  • Heaven is real — a prepared place for a prepared people.

  • As Adrian Rogers said, believers are not on “death row,” but “life row” (John 11:26).

  • If you want to be glory-bound, you must first be glory-born through faith in Jesus Christ.

The Preparation of Our Bodies

Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Oct 26, 2025

Main text: 1 Corinthians 15:35–49

I. Analogy of the Resurrected Body (vv. 35–38)

A. Death – Like a seed, our body must die before new life begins (1 Cor. 15:36, John 12:24).

B. Difference – The seed changes form—our resurrected bodies will be gloriously transformed. (1 Cor. 15:37)

C. Continuity – The same life, yet wonderfully changed; God preserves our identity (1 Cor. 15:38)

II. Answers Regarding the Resurrected Body

A. Our Bodies Will Be – 1 Corinthians 15:42

– Sown in corruption, raised in incorruption; no more decay, sickness, or death.

B. Our Bodies Will Be – 1 Corinthians 15:43

– Raised in glory, like Christ’s glorious body (Philippians 3:20–21; 1 John 3:2).

– Recognizable and real—Jesus ate and was touched after His resurrection (Luke 24:39).

C. Our Bodies Will Be – 1 Corinthians 15:43b

– Raised in power, unlimited and strong (John 20:19).

D. Our Bodies Will Be – 1 Corinthians 15:44

– Suited for eternal living; no more struggle between flesh and spirit.

III. Anticipation of the Resurrected Body

In a moment, all believers—dead or alive—will be changed (1 Corinthians 15:51–52).

Our corruptible, weak bodies will become incorruptible, powerful, and eternal.

Christians long for heaven, our eternal home prepared by God.

“I still can hardly believe it, I, with
shriveled bent fingers, atrophied muscles,
gnarled knees, and no feeling from the
shoulders down, will one day have a new
body, light, bright, and clothed in
righteousness, powerful & dazzling. Can
you imagine the hope this gives someone
spinal cord injured like me?

Or someone who is cerebral palsied,
brain-injured, or who has multiple
sclerosis? Imagine the hope this gives
someone who is manic-depressive. No
other religion, no other philosophy
promises new bodies, new hearts and
minds. Only in the gospel of Christ do
hurting people find such incredible hope.”

Joni Eareckson Tada

 

No Other Name

Sermon by Pastor Bob Johnson / Oct 19, 2025

Text: Acts 4:8-12

Introduction

Background of the text.

Acts 3: Peter and John healed a lame man.

Apostolic age

Apostle’s Qualifications

The apostles were endowed with miraculous power to -authenticate their divine commission

-validate their message

-to advance the early Christian church.

Acts 4:1-3

Acts 4:5-7 The Sanhedrin

History only confirms what God’s Word declares!

No Other Name!

  1. The Testimony of a Resurrected Savior. v10

Acts 4:10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 

Peter shares three highlights regarding the testimony of a resurrected Savior.

First, Peter highlights a description of Jesus.

“by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth”

His Humanity

His Deity

His Humility

Next, Peter highlights the crucifixion of Jesus.

“whom you crucified”

The Jews should have recognized Jesus as Messiah simply from the fulfillment of prophecy.

Psalm 22:16-18

His hands and feet will be pierced, his garments divided, and his enemies cast lots for his clothing.

Matthew 27:35

Isaiah 53:5

Messiah is wounded, suffering, bruised,

Matthew 27:57-60

Isaiah 53:12

Punished among thieves/transgressors.

Mark 15:27

Zechariah 12:10

He was pierced

John 19:34

Zechariah 11:12

Betrayed for 30 pieces of silver

Matthew 26:15

Psalm 34:20

No bones broken

John 19:33

Peter highlights the resurrection of Jesus.

“whom God raised from the dead”

Did you know that He was seen by over 520 eyewitnesses after His resurrection and before His ascension?

-Mary Magdelene and several other women. John 20:11-18

-2 Followers of Jesus on the road to Emmaus. Luke 24:13-32

-His brother James and all the Apostles. 1 Corinthians 15:7

-Over 500 people at once. 1 Corinthians 15:6

  1. The Testimony of a Firm Foundation. V.11

Acts 4:11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 

Peter shares three expressions in this verse regarding a firm foundation.

1st Expression – “This is the stone”

Isaiah 28:16 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. 

2nd Expression – “Which was set at nought of you builders”

Psalm 118:22 The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. 

Matthew 21:42 Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes? 

3rd Expression – “which is become the head of the corner.”

1 Peter 2:6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. 

Ephesians 2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 

  1. The Testimony of a Changed Life. V.8.

Acts 4:8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, 

Let’s look at several observations regarding a changed life.

Peter’s Name – Then Peter

John 1:42 And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone. 

Peter’s Power – Filled with the Holy Spirit

Peter’s Boldness – said unto them

Peter’s Conclusion – No Other Name

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. 

Philippians 2:10-11 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Is Jesus your Lord and Savior? If He is, do you speak his name with boldness and love?

There is NO OTHER NAME!!

 

The Pathway of Heaven

Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / October 12, 2025

Series: Heaven

Main text: John 3:1–16

I. The Enquirer Regarding Heaven

A. – Most Impressive

– Pharisee: Guardian of the law.

– Member of the Sanhedrin: Ruling council of 71 elders.

– Israel’s Teacher: Respected, rich, and religious.

B. – Impacted by Jesus’ miracles and words.

– Wonders if Jesus is the Messiah.

C. – Came by night seeking truth (John 3:2).

– Searching beyond religion for real relationship with God.

II. The Explanation Regarding Heaven

A. Need for New Birth Informed 

– Religion and morality cannot save; one must be born again.

– Salvation is spiritual, not physical (John 3:3).

B. Need for New Birth Illustrated

1. Different – Physical vs. Spiritual (vv.6–7).

2. Different – The Spirit moves unseen yet powerfully (v.8).

3. Different – The serpent lifted up (Num. 21:8–9; John 3:14–16).

→ Salvation comes by faith in the crucified Christ.

III. The Effect Regarding Heaven

Nicodemus publicly identified with Jesus at His burial.

Calvary changed his life—no longer a secret disciple.

True salvation leads to boldness and transformation.

Conclusion

God’s grace reaches both the moral and the broken.

Every soul must choose: Will you be born again and follow Christ?

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world…”

 

A Place Called Heaven

Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Oct 5, 2025

Series: HEAVEN

Main Text – John 14:1–4

I. The Reality of Heaven

Jesus comforts His disciples: John 14:1–4.

He prepares us for His departure and for our own.

Heaven is a real place (topos = place, John 14:2).

Descriptions: a country, a city, a kingdom, a Father’s house.

Scripture: Ephesians 4:10; Acts 1:10–11; Isaiah 14:13.

II. The Riches of Heaven

A. The in Heaven – Hebrews 9:24.

– Beauty of Christ surpasses all.

B. The in Heaven – Hebrews 12:23.

– Reunion with loved ones, the church of the firstborn.

C. The of Heaven – 1 Peter 1:3–4.

– Our inheritance is reserved in heaven.

D. The of Heaven – Philippians 3:20.

– Our citizenship is in heaven now.

E. The of Heaven – Matthew 5:12.

– Rewards for faithful service.

F. The of Heaven – Matthew 6:19–21; 1 Thessalonians 2:19.

– True treasure = souls, eternal investment.

G. The of Heaven – Revelation 21:27; Luke 10:20.

– Names written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

Conclusion

Tom Brady’s story of success yet emptiness.

“Why do I have 3 Super Bowl rings and still
think there’s something greater out there for
me? I mean, maybe a lot of people would
say, ‘Hey man this is what it is all about. I
reached my goal, my dream, my life.’ Me, I
think: there’s got to be more than this. I
mean this can’t be what it’s all cracked up to
be. I mean, I’ve done it. I’m 27. And what
else is there for me?” – Tom Brady

Ultimate longing of every heart = Heaven.

Jesus said: John 14:6 – He is the way to Heaven.

 

Belief Behaving Boldly

Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Sept 28, 2025

Main text: Ephesians 6:18–20

“I preach on Sunday – but I have 450 members who take my message on Monday and preach it wherever they go.” – Henry Ward Beecher

I. Battle for Souls

Read Ephesians 6:18

  • Our primary strength in the battle = Prayer
  • We are in a war (Ephesians 6:10–18).
  • Satan fears the believer who appeals to Almighty God.

2 things about prayer:

1. – sights the enemy.

2. – fights the enemy.

Persevere in prayer – Satan never gives up.

Paul’s request: prayer for souls.

II. Burden for Souls

We are on earth for a greater purpose: winning souls.

True fulfillment = becoming a courageous Christian.

Jesus showed the value of one soul (Luke 15):

  • Lost sheep – shepherd searched until found.
  • Lost coin – woman hunted until found.
  • Lost son – father waited for his return.

Christ’s burden: He wept, prayed, fasted, lost sleep.

Paul’s burden: Acts 20:31; Romans 10:1; Romans 9:3

Jeremiah’s burden: Lamentations 1

III. Boldness for Souls

Read Ephesians 6:19-20

Paul in Rome:

– Desired to preach in Rome → went as a prisoner.

– Saw opportunity in chains (Philippians 1:12–13).

2 Timothy 2:9 – ‘….The word of God is not bound.’

Difficulties = opportunities to share Christ.

Paul’s prayer = boldness in walk and talk.

IV. Business of Souls

Read Ephesians 6:20

Satan’s goal = distract believers from witnessing.

We are ambassadors for Christ (v.20).

– Represent Heaven.

– Used to shake Satan’s kingdom.

Our main task:

1. Win souls for Christ.

2. Make sure we keep doing #1.

‘Politics is my day job. Sharing Jesus is my main job.’ – Charlie Kirk

V. Blessing of Souls

Paul’s joy in prison = fruit of souls won 

Joy in Luke 15:

1. Shepherd found sheep → party.

2. Woman found coin → party.

3. Father welcomed son → biggest party.

Luke 15:10 – ‘….there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.’

True joy comes from everyday witnessing.

Evil wanted a funeral — God brought revival.

 

Sermon by Dr. Emir Caner

Sept 21, 2025

Please use the space below for your sermon notes.

LIFE

Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Sept 14, 2025

Series: Living Life Backward

Text: Ecclesiastes 11-12

Solomon concludes his journal with some great advice about life.

I. ACCEPT LIFE

Read Eccl. 11:1-2

A. Be

Solomon Used 2 Activities to Illustrate this Point

  1. The Merchant
  2. The Farmer

B. Be

Read Eccl. 11:3-6

II. ACCEPT LIFE

A. Appreciate life

Read Eccl. 11:7-8

B. Appreciate life

Read Eccl. 11:9-12:2

C. Appreciate life

Read Eccl. 12:3-8

III. ANALYZE LIFE

A. for life

Read Eccl. 12:9-10

B. for life

Read Eccl. 12:11-12

IV. ASSESS LIFE

Read Eccl. 12:13-14

3 Keys to a Fulfilling Life

  1. your Creator (read Psalm 8:3-4)
  2. God (read Eccl. 12:13)
  3. God’s commandments (read Eccl. 12:13-14)

 

The Folly of the Foolish

Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Sept 7, 2025

Series: Living Life Backward

Text: Ecclesiastes 10:1-20

Solomon – the author of books of Ecclesiastes and Proverbs

Proverbs 15:21 – “Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom…”

I. THE LIFE OF A FOOL

Read Ecclesiastes 10:1

A. The of their life

Saul – a perfection description of the life of a fool (see 1 Samuel 16:14)

B. The of their life

Read Eccl. 10:2

• The right hand = place of honor   and    power.

• The left hand = place of weakness   and    rejection

Our choices are made by us. The direction comes from the choices we make. 

C. The of their life

Read Eccl. 10:3

A fool’s actions prove himself a fool.

II. THE LEADERSHIP OF A FOOL

“I haver never accepted what many people have kindly said – that I inspired the nation.  It was the nation and the race dwelling around the globe that had the lion heart.  I had the luck to be called to give the roar.” – Winston Churchill

Solomon warns about the leadership of a fool. 

A.

Read Eccl. 10:16-17

“Unlucky the land whose king is a young pup, and whose princes party all night. Lucky the land whose king is mature – where the princes behave themselves and don’t drink themselves silly.” (The Message, paraphrase)

B.

Read Eccl. 10:18

“There is little correlation between a leader’s effectiveness and his or her intelligence – imagination – or knowledge. Brilliant people are strikingly ineffective.  They never have learned that insights become effectiveness only through hard systematic work.” Peter Drucker/leadership guru

C.

Read Eccl. 10:19

In what field are you a leader?

* We will never stand alone before God. 

* We will stand with the souls of those we lead.

D.

Read Eccl. 10:20

III. THE LIPS OF A FOOL

Read Eccl. 10:11-14

A. THE LIPS OF THE FOOL ARE COMPARED TO A

Read Proverbs 24:1-2

Read Proverbs 20:19

Be careful with gossip.

B. THE LIPS OF THE FOOL ARE CERTAIN TO BE

Read Proverbs 13:3, 16:27-28

Read Eccl. 10:12

David Jeremiah said that he prays every morning this prayer: “My Lord and my God.  I am a rudderless ship without you.  I cannot work, I cannot speak, I cannot live or love as I should – unless your wisdom lights my path.  Protect me from my own foolishness and teach me thy way.” 

 

 

 

How to Enjoy Life

Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / August 31, 2025

Series: Living Life Backward

Text: Ecclesiastes 9

Why do so few people enjoy life? Because they are trying to be happy without God.

Three Timeless Principles to Enjoy Life

I. DEATH IS SURE

Solomon gives us 3 responses in the face of death:

A. Examination

Read Ecclesiastes 9:1-3

B. Endurance

Read Ecclesiastes 9:4-6

Solomon’s response to death is: CHOOSE LIFE!

C. Enjoyment

Jim Elliott – “Wherever you are be all there.  Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God.”

II. LIFE IS SURPRISING

A. Life holds unfair

Read Ecclesiastes 9:11

B. Life holds unexpected

Read Ecclesiastes 9:12

III. WISDOM IS SUPERIOR

Read Ecclesiastes 9:13-15 …. The Illustration

Read Ecclesiastes 9:16-18a …. The application

Three Ways Wisdom Comes

A. Wisdom comes through a

Read Proverbs 3:13, Proverbs 9:10

B. Wisdom comes through

C. Wisdom comes through

Read Ecclesiastes 9:8b