Sermons by Michael Penfold
Blessed Is She That Believed (20 min)
Are you struggling to believe the promises of God? Michael Penfold preaches on an extraordinary woman of faith – Mary the mother of the Lord – of whom it was said “Blessed is she that believed”. Mary was given eight promises by the Lord and she simply believed them all. An example to all Christians, Mary’s faith was exceptional, unique and absolute. Reading: Luke 1:45. (Recorded at Blues Mills Gospel Hall conference, Cape Breton Island, Canada, on 9th Nov 2024)…
The Lord Has Something Better in Mind (27 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on occasions in Scripture when people were not saved from troubles, but saved through them. Why? Because the Lord had something better in mind. Readings: John 11:1-6, 14-15, 21, 32-37, 40-41, 43-45. (Recorded at the Roseisle Gospel Hall conference, MB, Canada, on 28th Sept 2024)
Are You Settled on Your Lees? (28 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the biblical concept of being “settled on your lees” from Jer 48:11 and Zeph 1:12, a metaphorical reference to the peril of spiritual complacency. He highlights three people who refused to settle on their lees: Nehemiah despite prosperity, Caleb despite discouragement, and Esther despite fear. (Recorded at the Roseisle Gospel Hall conference, MB, Canada, on 28th Sept 2024)
Jerusalem’s Hope: God’s Enduring Promise Amidst Conflict (41 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on God’s covenantal plan to rule the world, in a future kingdom age, through His Son Jesus Christ, during which time a restored nation of Israel will be “the head not the tail”, and Jerusalem will be the centre of the world geographically, politically and spiritually. Readings: Gen 12:1-3, Rom 11:25-27, Eph 1:9-10. (Recorded in Parkview Gospel Hall, Winnipeg, MB, Canada, 1st Oct 2024) (Photo: 57187596 | Iron Dome © Irina Opachevsky | Dreamstime.com)
The Miracle of Isaiah 53 (49 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the context, content, character, course and contrasts of a most remarkable chapter in the Bible – Isaiah Ch 53. (Recorded in Fletcher Road Gospel Hall, Stoke, 14th Sept 2024) (Photo: The Qumran Caves in the Judaean Desert)
The Incomparability of God (30 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on God’s repeated claim in Isaiah Ch 45, “I am the LORD and there is none else; there is no god beside Me”, a claim proved by God’s unique capabilities in creation, history, prophecy and deliverance. Set over against this is the propensity of the human heart to substitute the one true and living God for idols. (Recorded in Chalfont St Peter Gospel Hall, 25th Aug 2024) Also by the same speaker: The Sovereignty of God
Why I Am Not Interdenominational (18 min)
Michael Penfold looks at the 4 nouns in Acts 2:42 – the apostles’ doctrine and the fellowship, the breaking of bread and the prayers – and how they affect two issues; open table reception and interdenominational activity. (Recorded in Kells Gospel Hall, Northern Ireland, 29th Sept 2017)
It’s a Big Thing to Be Part of an Assembly (36 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the privilege of being in an assembly and what is involved by way of commitment and responsibility. Readings: Acts 2:41- 9:26-28. (Recorded in Kells Gospel Hall, Northern Ireland, 28th Sept 2017)
Sprinkling, Pouring or Immersion – Does It Matter? (53 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the topic of baptism, proving from the New Testament that full immersion of believers is the scriptural pattern. He discusses sprinkling (christening), pouring, household baptism, and total immersion. Readings: Matt 28:18-20, Rom 6:1-14, 1 Cor 10:1-2. (Recorded in Kells Gospel Hall, Northern Ireland, 27th Sept 2017)
Daniel’s Five Tests (30 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the 5 tests Daniel underwent in his life for God and the practical lessons we can learn from them today. Reading: Dan 1:1-2. (Recorded in Stark Road Gospel Hall, Livonia, MI, USA, Nov 2010)
How to Deliver a Gospel Sermon (48 min)
Michael Penfold speaks on how to deliver a gospel message. Preachers should preach with authority, dignity, sensitivity, simplicity, clarity, cogency, authenticity, solemnity, intensity and fervency. Advice is given on how to maintain attention throughout; opening and closing in prayer; time-keeping; the use of notes; gestures; eye contact and the use of the human voice. Reading: Ecc 12:10-11. (Recorded in Bury St Edmunds Gospel Hall, Suffolk, UK, 11th May 2024) The “Glorious Gospel” series: Its Method – Is Gospel Preaching Still…
How To Prepare a Gospel Sermon (44 min)
Michael Penfold speaks on preparing to preach the gospel – preparing the preacher, and preparing the sermon. He outlines the three main genres of sermon before discussing the preparation process and how to structure messages. Readings: Rom 1:16-17, 1 Cor 2:1-5, 1 Tim 4:13-16, 2 Tim 3:15, 4:1-5. (Recorded in Bury St Edmunds Gospel Hall, Suffolk, UK, 11th May 2024) The “Glorious Gospel” series: Its Method – Is Gospel Preaching Still Relevant? Its Message – The Three “R’s” of the…
What Are The Three “R’s” of the Gospel? (30 min)
Michael Penfold gives a 3-fold proof from Scripture that the gospel consists of three “R’s” – man’s ruin, God’s remedy, and man’s responsibility. In this sermon, the three R’s are expanded, with particular attention paid to the subjects of repentance and faith. Readings: Mark 16.16, Luke 24:46-47, Acts 2:37-38a, 20:21, 24-25, 1 Cor 15:3-4. (Recorded in Bury St Edmunds Gospel Hall, Suffolk, UK, 11th May 2024) The “Glorious Gospel” series: Its Method – Is Gospel Preaching Still Relevant? Its Message…
Is Gospel Preaching Still Relevant? (42 min)
Michael Penfold takes up the subject of “the divine method of communication”. In an era when many are arguing that politics, social work and the performing arts are the key methods for spreading the gospel, Michael contends that preaching is still the divine method. If you think “preaching doesn’t work any more”, you need to listen to this message. Readings: Mark 16.15-16, Acts 10.42, Rom 10.14-15a. (Recorded in Bury St Edmunds Gospel Hall, Suffolk, UK, 11th May 2024) The “Glorious…
Core Christianity (32 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on “Core Christianity”. From one verse in the Bible (Romans 10.9) he expounds three points: Jesus is God, He died, and He rose from the dead. Amazingly, Islam sides with atheism in denying every part of this “core Christianity”. Even “cultural Christian” Jordan Peterson will only say the resurrection “probably” happened. What about you? Do you believe the gospel? Are you saved? (Recorded in Chalfont St Peter, 30th June 2024)
God Wants Your Heart (41 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on “God wants your heart”, based on the direct and powerful challenge of God to the people of Israel in Isaiah 66:1-5. (Recorded in Sarnia Gospel Hall, 27th May 2018) Get in touch: contact@gospelhallaudio.org
Overview of the 7 Vessels of the Tabernacle (48 min)
Michael Penfold preaches about the 7 vessels of the Tabernacle. The map, the materials, the measurements and the meaning of the seven items of furniture in the Tabernacle of Moses. Readings: Heb 9:1-12, 10:11-14, 19-22. (Recorded at Winchester Gospel Hall, 10th May 2024) Pair of Sermons: Overview of the 7 Feasts of the Lord Overview of the 7 Vessels of the Tabernacle
Overview of the 7 Feasts of the Lord (40 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the 7 Feasts of the Lord, outlining their significance historically, typically, dispensationally and practically. Readings: Col 2:16-17, Exod 34:18, 22-24, Lev 23:1-6, 10, 15-16, 23-27, 33, 37-38. (Recorded in Northampton 21st Jan 2020) Pair of Sermons: Overview of the 7 Feasts of the Lord Overview of the 7 Vessels of the Tabernacle
Possibly the Clearest Picture of Christ in the OT (15 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the life of Joseph in Genesis, which prefigures the life, death and exaltation of Christ in such detail that it is often viewed as the clearest picture of Christ in the Old Testament. (Recorded in Manchester, CT, USA, 23rd March 2024)
Am I in the Place of God? (47 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the contrasting lives of Jacob and Joseph. Jacob constantly tried to manipulate his life’s circumstances and was always scrambling for control, whereas Joseph left everything in the hands of the Lord. In Joseph’s own words, “Am I in the place of God?” Readings: Gen 32:22-23, 50:15-21. (Recorded at Welcome Gospel Hall, Winchester, 1st April 2024)
Christ is the End of Your Own Efforts (44 min)
Michael Penfold explains that it is possible to be active in your religion, to have religious status, and even to be a religious enthusiast, but still not be a Christian. How come? Because without Christ, it’s all just “your own righteousness”. You need to see Christ, in His death and resurrection for sinners, as the end of all your own efforts to find acceptance with God. Reading: Romans 10:1-4. (Recorded at Chalfont St Peter Gospel Hall, 25th Feb 2024) Contact…
Better is the End of a Thing Than The Beginning (43 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on one of Solomon’s “betters” from Ecclesiastes 7 – “better is the end of a thing than the beginning”, looking at it in the panorama of history, in the people of God in the Bible, and in the purposes of God for the Christian’s life. (Recorded in Newbury Gospel Hall, 10th Feb 2024) Contact: contact@gospelhallaudio.org
Little Picture or Big Picture? (54 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the future ahead of Christian. Do you have a small view of the future, centred only on you getting to heaven, or do you see the big picture of God’s plan for His Son and His Son’s bride? Readings: Rom 8:18-25, Eph 1:9-12, 3:10-11, 1 John 3:8. (Recorded in Charlottetown Gospel, Prince Edward Island, Canada, 19th Oct 2023) Complete series: Self-ID or Scripture ID? (What is my identity?) All About Me or All About Him? (What…
Egalitarianism or Complementarianism? (57 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the roles of the sexes as set out in the Bible by the design of God. From relevant scriptures he addresses hot-button contemporary issues such as gender equality, discrimination, feminism, “the patriarchy”, and Marxism. Readings: Gen 1:26-27, 2:18, 21-22, 3:1, 6, 16. (Recorded in Charlottetown Gospel, Prince Edward Island, Canada, 18th Oct 2023) Complete series: Self-ID or Scripture ID? (What is my identity?) All About Me or All About Him? (What is my purpose?) Egalitarianism or…
All About Me or All About Him? (54 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the Christian’s purpose in time and eternity. In the words of the Westminster Confession, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” What does this mean, what should motivate me in doing so, and how should I do it? Readings: 1 Cor 10:31-11:1, 6:19-20. (Recorded in Charlottetown Gospel, Prince Edward Island, Canada, 17th Oct 2023) Complete series: Self-ID or Scripture ID? (What is my identity?) All About Me or All About Him? (What…
Self-ID or Scripture-ID? (52 min)
Michael Penfold expounds the Christian and biblical view of human identity, dealing with it in 4 parts: creation identity, fallen identity, redeemed identity and transformed identity. Readings: Gen 1:26-27, Gal 3:28, Rom 8:29. (Recorded in Charlottetown Gospel, Prince Edward Island, Canada, 16th Oct 2023) Complete series: Self-ID or Scripture ID? (What is my identity?) All About Me or All About Him? (What is my purpose?) Egalitarianism or Complementarianism? (What is my role?) Little Picture or Big Picture? (What is my…
A Christian Background, but as Dark as Midnight (47 min)
Michael Penfold grew up familiar with the Bible and the gospel, but when it actually came to getting saved, he found he was as dark as midnight. Listen to discover how the preaching of the gospel brought light and salvation to him. It will bring the same to you too. Reading: 1 Pet 3:22-24. (Recorded in Chalfont St Peter Gospel Hall, 17th Dec 2023)
Pragmatism or Principle in God’s Assembly? (15 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the subject of God being a “God of order”. Whether it be creation, history, prophecy, government or family, all that God does is both governed by principle and marked by order. It is no surprise then to discover that how an assembly of God functions is also a matter of principle. Readings: 1 Cor 3:10, 14:33-40, 1 Tim 2:15. (Message preached in Oxbow, Saskatchewan, Canada, 7th Oct 2023)
His Claim is True, His Work is Done, His Victory is Sure (47 min)
After outlining a series of proofs for the resurrection of Christ, Michael Penfold preaches on “what the resurrection proves”. The resurrection of Christ proves that 1. His claim to be the Son of God is true; 2. His atoning work is done; and 3. His victory is sure, which will be seen when He returns to reign over the earth in His millennial kingdom. Readings: John 20:30-31, Acts 1:3, 17:31, Rom 1:1-4, 4:25. (Message preached in Coleford Gospel Hall, Somerset,…
Old Worship vs New Worship (38 min)
Michael Penfold explains the difference between “old worship” and “new worship”. The Lord Jesus taught the woman at the well in John Ch 4 that the way God’s people worshipped in the old times was changing. Worship today must be “in spirit” and “in truth”, but the tendency is often to revert to the forms of the past. Reading: John 4:19-24. (Message preached in Weymouth, Nova Scotia, Canada, 15th Oct 2023) Rightly Dividing the Word Handout Complete “Rightly Dividing the…
Priests vs Bishops (40 min)
Michael Penfold explains the difference between priests and bishops (overseers), replacing the common cultural conception of what priests and bishops are with a correct biblical understanding. Readings: 1 Pet 2:4-10, 5:1-4. (Message preached in Weymouth, Nova Scotia, Canada, 15th Oct 2023) Rightly Dividing the Word Handout Complete “Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth” series: State vs Standing Local assembly vs the Body of Christ Male vs Female Roles Priests vs Bishops Old Worship vs New Worship
Male vs Female Roles (38 min)
Michael Penfold explains the difference between the roles that God has given to men and women in marriage and in the assembly. Going back to Genesis he highlights the creation of the sexes in chapter 1, the assignment of the roles of the sexes in chapter 2, and the reversal of roles in chapter 3. Readings: 1 Cor 11:3, Eph 5:24-25, Gal 3:28-29. (Message preached in Weymouth, Nova Scotia, Canada, 14th Oct 2023) Rightly Dividing the Word Handout Complete “Rightly…
Local Assembly vs the Body of Christ (44 min)
Michael Penfold explains the difference between the local assembly and the body of Christ under 5 headings: definition, composition, distinction, description and ramification. Readings: Matt 16:18, 18:17-20. (Message preached in Weymouth, Nova Scotia, Canada, 14th Oct 2023) Rightly Dividing the Word Handout Complete “Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth” series: State vs Standing Local assembly vs the Body of Christ Male vs Female Roles Priests vs Bishops Old Worship vs New Worship
State vs Standing (40 min)
Michael Penfold explains the difference between the Christian’s “standing” before God, and his or her every day “state”. Understanding the difference between and the relationship between a believer’s eternal position and his or her daily practice is vital. Readings: 2 Tim 2:15, Eph 1:3-6, 4:1-3. (Message preached in Weymouth, Nova Scotia, Canada, 14th Oct 2023) Rightly Dividing the Word Handout Complete “Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth” series: State vs Standing Local Assembly vs the Body of Christ Male vs…
A Lesser Known Type of Christ (51 min)
After a brief introduction to the subject of typology, Michael Penfold preaches on Daniel as a clear – though lesser-known – type of Christ, particularly from the story of the den of lions. Reading: Dan 6:1-3. (Message preached in Winnipeg Gospel Hall, MB, Canada, 6th Oct 2023) Photo of oil painting of “Daniel’s Answer to the King” by Briton Riviere (1890) from the Manchester Art Gallery.
Does Grace Mean I Can Live As I Like? (48 min)
Michael Penfold explains from Scripture that what Christians say they believe must be reflected in the way they live. This is what the Bible expects. In Romans, justification leads to sanctification; in Ephesians, grace leads to godliness; in Titus, doctrine leads to duty; in James, faith leads to works, and in 1st John, the new birth leads to new behaviour. (Coleford Gospel Hall, Somerset, 21st Nov 2020)
It Will Be a Great Day When HE Comes (42 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the day when God will vindicate His Son, His Word, His ways and His honour – in the “regeneration” when Christ returns to earth to reign. Then the nations will be blessed, as redeemed Israel becomes the centre of the earth geographically, the head of the nations governmentally and the light of the nations spiritually. Readings: Eph 1:9-10, Titus 3:4-5, Matt 19:28. (Recorded in Huyton Gospel Hall, Liverpool, 19th Apr 2019)
The World’s Gone Mad – Here’s Why (35 min)
It’s common nowadays to hear people exclaim “The world’s gone mad”. In recent years the religious, political, family and community narratives the older generation grew up with have all pretty much collapsed. How did this happen? What’s going on? Michael Penfold explains that the character of the present madness is nothing new. It has the same character as the madness that overwhelmed the world at the beginning of human history. Readings: Gen 3:1-6, Rom 5:12-14, 18-21. (Message preached in Chalfont…
Staleness or Freshness in Worship? (23 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on freshness in worship when the church is gathered to break bread. Worship should be marked by preparation, devotion, appreciation, variation, perception and continuation. Reading: Lev 1:1-17, 6:8-13. (Recorded in Chalfont St Peter, 13th Aug 2023)
Keep Learning, Keep Leaning, Keep Looking (28 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on Jude’s recipe for “keeping yourself in the love of God” – keep learning, keep leaning and keep looking for the Lord to return. Reading: Jude vvs20-21. (Message preached in Chalfont St Peter, 30th July 2023)
Is This The Most Avoided Doctrine in the Bible? (38 min)
Michael Penfold gives a basic introduction to the topic of separation from the world, one of the most avoided doctrines in the Bible. The Bible outlines a path of separation for the believer in Christ – ecclesiastical, social, political, marital and financial. Readings: John 12:31, Gal 6:14, 1 John 2:15-17, 2 Cor 6:14-18. (Sermon preached in Burnaby Gospel Hall, Vancouver, Canada, 14th May 2023) Click here for accompanying handout (Letter size) Complete series on Bible basics: Why Christians Need to be…
The Family is the Foundation of Society (33 min)
Michael Penfold gives a basic introduction to the topics of family, marriage and home. The family is the foundation of society, and marriage is the foundation of the family. Readings: Gen 1:27-28, Eph 5:22-23, 6:1-3, 1 Tim 2:15, 5:14, Titus 2:5. (Sermon preached in Burnaby Gospel Hall, Vancouver, Canada, 14th May 2023) Click here for accompanying handout (Letter size) Complete series on Bible basics: Why Christians Need to be Part of a Local Church Preaching is the Divinely Chosen Method Understanding…
Understanding the Bible’s 7 Dispensations (47 min)
Michael Penfold gives a basic introduction to the topic of dispensations. Each of the Bible’s 7 dispensations is marked by a 4-part cycle of: revelation, responsibility, rebellion and retribution. Readings: Luke 16:1-2, Mark 16:15, Acts 10:23, 34-42. (Sermon preached in Burnaby Gospel Hall, Vancouver, Canada, 13th May 2023) Click here for accompanying handout (Letter size) Complete series on Bible basics: Why Christians Need to be Part of a Local Church Preaching is the Divinely Chosen Method Understanding the Bible’s Seven Dispensations…
Preaching is the Divinely Chosen Method (49 min)
Michael Penfold gives a basic introduction to the topic of gospel preaching under 4 headings: the mandate, the multitude, the method and the message. Readings: Mark 16:15, Acts 10:23, 34-42. (Sermon preached in Burnaby Gospel Hall, Vancouver, Canada, 13th May 2023) Click here for accompanying handout (Letter size) Complete series on Bible basics: Why Christians Need to be Part of a Local Church Preaching is the Divinely Chosen Method Understanding the Bible’s Seven Dispensations The Family is the Foundation of…
Why Christians Need to be Part of a Local Church (44 min)
Michael Penfold gives a basic introduction to the topic of the local church under 4 headings: the plan, the purpose, the principle, the pattern. Readings: Matt 18:20, Acts 2:41-43, 15:14, 1 Cor 3:10, 14:37. (Sermon preached in Burnaby Gospel Hall, Vancouver, Canada, 13th May 2023) Click here for accompanying handout (Letter size) Complete series on Bible basics: Why Christians Need to be Part of a Local Church Preaching is the Divinely Chosen Method Understanding the Bible’s Seven Dispensations The Family…
Major Prophets: Major Faith (37 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the faith of the 4 major prophets. Isaiah: faith in the midst of anxiety and fear. Jeremiah: faith in the midst of opposition and persecution. Ezekiel: faith in the midst of frustration and disappointment. Daniel: faith in the midst of pressure and intimidation. Reading: Isaiah 43:1-7. (Message preached in Chalfont St Peter, 16th July 2023)
4 Marked Out Men in John’s Gospel (27 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on 4 marked out men in the gospel of John. “One of the officers” (18:22), “one of the servants” (18:26), “one of the soldiers” (19:34) and “one of the 12” (20:24). Lessons are drawn from each one, in relation to sinners, saints, the Scriptures and the Saviour respectively. (Message preached in Chalfont St Peter, 25th June 2023) (Photo: a street in Jerusalem)
Forwards not Backwards; Heaven not Earth; Others not Self (33 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the three key Christological paragraphs of the New Testament epistles and draws the main lesson flowing from each: Hebrews 1 – forwards not backwards, Colossians 1 – heaven not earth, and Philippians 2 – others not self. (Recorded in Chalfont St Peter, 4th June 2023)
Knowing Him (44 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the topic of “knowing Him”, as the secret of the Christian life. Christ the purpose, the power and the pattern for living. Readings: Phil 1:19-21, Gal 2:20, 1 Cor 10:32-11:1. (Message preached in Langley, BC, Canada, 12th May 2023) Complete Series – What every Christian should know Knowing for sure you are saved Knowing you are dead and risen with Christ Knowing Him
Knowing You Are Dead and Risen with Christ (46 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the topic of Christian being dead and risen with Christ. Understanding this “positional truth” is transformational. Three key words in Romans 6:1-14 are highlighted: know, reckon and yield. (Message preached in Langley, BC, Canada, 11th May 2023) Complete Series – What every Christian should know Knowing for sure you are saved Knowing you are dead and risen with Christ Knowing Him
Knowing For Sure You Are Saved (46 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the assurance of salvation – how to know you are truly saved. The Bible states clearly that a person can know, but many struggle with doubts. After looking are a few common unreliable indicators of assurance, Mr Penfold outlines the biblical way to know you are saved. Reading: 1 John 5:5-13. (Recorded in Langley, BC, Canada, 10th May 2023) Complete Series – What every Christian should know Knowing for sure you are saved Knowing you are…
The Consequences of Our Heavenly Calling (44 min)
PART 7 – Michael Penfold preaches on the Christian’s citizenship. God has severed our links with a world under judgment. We are dead to the world, and are now a heavenly people, linked to a “Man in the glory”. But what are the consequences of our heavenly calling and how should we relate to the world in which we still live? Readings: John 12:31, 1 Cor 10:32, Phil 1:27-30, 3:20-21. (Message preached in Manchester, CT, USA, 30th Mar 2023) Complete…
Discovering and Using My Gift (51 min)
PART 6 – Michael Penfold preaches on the Christian’s stewardship of time, talent (gift), treasure and truth. Every Christian has one or more divinely given spiritual gifts, but how do you discover and use that gift? Readings: 1 Pet 4:10-11, 1 Cor 12:1, 4-6, 12-28. (Message preached in Manchester, CT, USA, 29th Mar 2023) Complete series on “critical assembly issues”: The evangelical revolution (Ownership and Lordship) Why are head coverings in only one chapter? (Headship) What’s involved in being part…
What is the Biblical Church Leadership Model? (54 min)
PART 5 – Michael Penfold looks at the issue of “church leadership” (identification, designation, qualification, classification). Today’s mainline denominations use a hierarchical form of governance involving regional bishops. Large independent evangelical churches tend to have a group of “Pastors” who are responsible to a “board of elders”. Are either of these models scriptural? If not, what is the biblical model for assembly leadership? Readings: Acts 20:17, 28, 1 Pet 5:1-4, Titus 1:5-9. (Message preached in Manchester, CT, USA, 28th Mar…
It Matters How We Worship (50 min)
PART 4 – Michael Penfold preaches on concept and character of worship in the present dispensation. How churches worship has totally changed in the past 70 years, as music and emotion have come to the fore, but the Scripture is clear that we cannot just worship as we please, we must worship “in spirit and in truth”. Readings: 1 Pet 2:4-5, 9, Heb 13:13-16, John 4:19-24. (Message preached in Manchester, CT, USA, 27th Mar 2023) Complete series on “critical assembly…
What’s Involved in Being Part of an Assembly? (51 min)
PART 3 – Michael Penfold preaches on the privileges and responsibilities of being in fellowship in a New Testament assembly. In light of what Scripture has to say on this subject, what are we to make of an “open table” and inter-denominationalism? Readings: Acts 2:41-43, 9:26-28. (Message preached in Manchester, CT, USA, 26th Mar 2023) Complete series on “critical assembly issues”: The evangelical revolution (Ownership and Lordship) Why are head coverings in only one chapter? (Headship) What’s involved in being…
Why Are Head Coverings in Only One Chapter? (52 min)
PART 2 – The present-day use of head coverings is sometimes questioned because “they are only in one chapter of the Bible”. Michael Penfold addresses this issue as he sets out the order, meaning, operation and symbols of the biblical doctrine of “headship”. Readings: 1 Cor 11:1-17, 1 Tim 2:8-15. (Recorded in Manchester, CT, USA, 25th Mar 2023) Complete series on “critical assembly issues”: The evangelical revolution (Ownership and Lordship) Why are head coverings in only one chapter? (Headship) What’s…
The Evangelical Revolution (48 min)
PART 1 – The evangelical revolution of recent years has, in many places, turned “the church” into a reflection of the consumer culture that surrounds it. Michael Penfold looks at the topic of the relationship of Christ to the local assembly – He owns it, He dwells in it, He rules it – to refocus our thoughts biblically on this issue. Readings: 2 Tim 4:1-3, 1 Cor 14:37. (Message preached in Manchester, CT, USA, 25th Mar 2023) Complete series on…
There is Much Rubbish (23 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the phrase in Nehemiah 4:10 – “There is much rubbish”. Rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem involved recognising the rubbish, removing the rubbish and reviving the stones out of the rubbish. (Message preached in Ballymena, 31st Dec 2018)
Bird’s Eye View of Paul’s Church Epistles (30 min)
Michael Penfold takes a tour through the church epistles of Paul from Romans to 2nd Thessalonians, giving a bird’s eye view of each: Romans – The Power of the Gospel of God Corinthians – The Greatness of the Wisdom of God Galatians – The Authority of the Truth of God Ephesians – The Wonder of the Grace of God Philippians – The Prize of the High Calling of God Colossians – The Glory of the Christ of God Thessalonians –…
What Field Are You In? (12 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on Naomi’s move from the fields of Moab to the fields of Bethlehem, described in Scripture as, “She went forth from the place where she was” (Ruth 1:7): from the fields of Moab, a luxurious place of ease and distance from the Lord – to the fields of Bethlehem, the house of bread. Readings: Ruth 1:6-7, 2:3, 15-17, 19a. (Recorded in Saugus Gospel Hall, Boston, USA, June 2015)
What We Revere, We Resemble (42 min)
Michael Penfold expounds the biblical principle that people tend to become like the object of their worship. If you hold something in esteem, you will tend to imitate it. Worship breeds likeness: what we revere we will eventually resemble. Readings: Psa 115:4-8, 2 Kings 17:15, Rom 12:1-2. (Message preached in the Gospel Hall, Blackburn, 21st Jan 2023). (Original title: Two Worships)
God Always Finishes What He Starts (44 min)
Looking at creation, the cross, the church, the prophetic calendar and the Christian, Michael Penfold preaches on the truth that “God always finishes what He starts”. Reading: Phil 1:6. (Message preached in the Gospel Hall, Blackburn, 21st Jan 2023).
Never Cut Corners, Never Look Back, Never Give Up (42 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on 3 biblical exhortations for the believer running the marathon of the Christian life: “Never cut corners, never look back, never give up.” Readings: 1 Cor 9:24-26a, 2 Tim 2:5, Phil 3:13-14, Heb 12:1-3, 2 Tim 4:6-8. (Message preached in the Gospel Hall, Newbury, 14th Jan 2023)
The Counterintuitive Wisdom of God (41 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the counterintuitive wisdom of God in the gospel. God designed a ‘foolish’ message, He saved a ‘foolish’ people, and He employed a ‘foolish’ method, all to repudiate human wisdom and humiliate human pride. So, let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord. Reading: 1 Cor 1:17-2:5. Photo: University students. (Message preached in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, in May 2012)
It is written. It is appointed. It is finished. (28 min)
Michael Penfold preaches the gospel from three biblical statements: “it is written” – my condemnation (Rom 3:10); “it is appointed” – my destination (Heb 9:27); and “it is finished” – my salvation (John 19:30). (Message preached in Chalfont St Peter, 1st Jan 2023)
Are You A Door Opener or a Door Shutter? (39 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on two types of people in God’s assembly – door openers and door shutters. Ahaz was a door shutter (2 Chron 28:24): Hezekiah was a door opener (2 Chron 29:3). Which one are you, in terms of attendance, attitude and attractiveness? (Message preached in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada, 2018)
Calvary Affects Everything (29 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the wide reach of the cross. Not just getting me to heaven, but affecting my marriage, my relationships, my wallet, my struggles, my all. Calvary affects everything. Readings: Eph 5:24-25, Phil 4:2, 2:5-8, 2 Cor 8:9-11a, Heb 12:1-3, Rom 12:1-2. (Message preached at Stark Road Gospel Hall, Livonia, MI, USA, Nov 2014)
7 Purposes of the Lord’s Miracles (41 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on 7 leading purposes of the Lord’s miracles: manifestation, signification, authentication, vindication, illustration, education and anticipation. Readings: John 2:11, 3:1-2, 5:35-6, 20:30-31. (Message preached in Redditch Gospel Hall, 4th Dec 2022) Sessions: 1. Seven characteristics of the Lord’s miracles 2. Seven purposes of the Lord’s miracles
7 Characteristics of the Lord’s Miracles (47 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on 7 leading characteristics of the Lord’s miracles, which were numerous, unique, public, efficacious, undeniable, compassionate and artless. How can we still believe in miracles in the secular West? Are miracles “contrary to nature”? What about the claims of miracles in Christendom? Readings: Acts 2:22, 10:38-39. (Message preached in Redditch Gospel Hall, 3rd Dec 2022) Sessions: 1. Seven characteristics of the Lord’s miracles 2. Seven purposes of the Lord’s miracles
The Lesson of the Leftovers (26 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on “the lesson of the leftovers”. Why did the disciples panic in the storm on the lake? Because they “considered not the miracle of the loaves”. The 12 leftover basket-fulls that they had on hand should have been all they needed to rest in the Lord in the new trial, but they hadn’t learnt “the lesson of the leftovers”. Readings: John 6:5-13, Mark 6:45-52. (Message preached in Chalfont St Peter, 20th Nov 2022)
Why So Many People are Religious But Lost (29 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on Christ’s words about the “many” people who will, to their great surprise, be shut out of heaven despite a profession of salvation, and despite a lifetime of religious activity (Matt 7:21-23). Then from Romans 10:1-4 there’s a principle such people need to learn, a performance they need to stop, and a Person they need to trust (Recorded in Chalfont St Peter Gospel Hall, 13th Nov 2022)
Which World Are You Living For? – Part 2 (32 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the world’s desire to make us love it and be like it. 1. The Egypt world – the world of intelligence that wants to dazzle us. It says “Be like us”. 2. The Babylon world – the world of idolatry that wants to delude us. It says “Think like us”. 3. The Sodom world – the world of immorality that wants to defile us. It says “Act like us”. In each world there was an overcomer:…
Which World Are You Living For? – Part 1 (32 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on “this world” under 4 headings: 1. The identity of the world – what the world is; 2. The mentality of the world – how the world thinks; 3. The destiny of the world – where the world’s headed; and 4. The strategy of the world – what the world wants. Readings: Gen 4:12b, 16-25, 1 John 2:15–17, John 12:31-32, Rom 12:1-2. (Message preached at the Stark Road Gospel Hall Conference, Livonia, Michigan, USA, 27th Oct 2010)
What Does “Teachers of Good Things” Mean in Titus 2? (17 min)
Michael Penfold examines the expression “teachers of good things”, which is sometimes cited as an endorsement of “women’s ministry”, and looks at the parties involved in the teaching, the content of the teaching and the context of the passage. (From a message on Titus 2 preached in Chalfont St Peter, 25th Sept 2022)
The Gospel in 5G (33 min)
Michael Penfold preaches the gospel and explains the Bible’s way of salvation from 5 words beginning with “G” in Romans Chs 3-6 (Message preached in Chalfont St Peter, 9th Oct 2022)
I’ll Tell You When We Get Home (24 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on “I’ll tell you when we get home”, highlighting “Someone who lives forever”, “something that lasts forever”, and “somewhere to dwell forever” from the Hebrew epistle. Readings: Heb 7:25, 10:32, 34, 13:10-14. (Message preached in Newtownstewart, Northern Ireland, 1st Jan 2015)
A Funeral Like No Other (17 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the unique funeral of the Monarch of the ages, our Lord Jesus Christ, outlining 5 unique aspects of the funeral of the King of Kings. (Message preached in Chalfont St Peter, 18 Sept 2022)
Why I am Not an Atheist (41 min)
As the inevitable fruit of the Enlightenment and Darwin’s theory of evolution, the UK has eventually become a decidedly secular and atheistic society. Against this backdrop Michael Penfold explains “Why I am not an atheist”, and gives the biblical explanation for humanity’s widespread desire to suppress the knowledge of God. Reading: Rom 1:18-25. (Message given in Chalfont St Peter, 7th Aug 2022)
Is There Life After Death? (43 min)
Michael Penfold speaks on the question “Is there life after death?” He divides his remarks into three sections: the case for life after death, the characteristics of life after death, and the choice of life after death. Know what to say next time someone says “No one has ever come back to tell us”. Reading: Job 14:14. (Message preached in Winchmore Hill, nr Chalfont St Peter, 19th June 2022)
Overview of Titus (37 min)
Michael Penfold gives an overview of the epistle of Paul to Titus, one of three of his “pastoral epistles”. The overview is given in three parts: “What about Crete?”, “What about Titus?”, and “What about the Epistle?”. For a chart of this overview of Titus click here. (Message preached in Chalfont St Peter, 3rd July 2022) Other book overviews: Overview of Genesis Overview of Ruth Overview of Proverbs Overview of Isaiah Overview of Daniel Overview of Joel Overview of Zechariah…
You Are Not Your Own (31 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on “You are not your own”, and the implications of this Bible statement on the Christian’s life. If Christ has bought me with a price, He owns me. He’s sovereign over me. I cannot just do as I like with my body and my life. Everything is now no longer about me but about Him. Reading: 1 Cor 6:19-20. (Recorded in Nov 2018 at Stark Road Gospel Hall Conference, USA)
Apologetics 101: The Uniqueness of Christianity (58 min)
Apologetics 101 – PART 5 of 5 Consciously or not, every human being has a worldview; it’s the way they view themselves, the world and all of reality. That worldview has consequences, for what a person believes determines how they live. So what is the correct worldview and how can it be verified? Michael Penfold tests 5 common worldviews against three questions: “Where do we come from?”, “What’s wrong with the world?”, and “How do we solve the problem?”. After…
Apologetics 101: The Rock of Scripture (63 min)
Apologetics 101 – PART 4 of 5 In 1890, British Prime Minister, William Gladstone, wrote a book about the Bible entitled “The Impregnable Rock of Holy Scripture”. Battering this rock over recent centuries has been Higher Criticism, one of the off-shoots of the Enlightenment. In an Enlightenment world, where the universe is a self-propelled machine, man is the measure of all things, and reason has replaced revelation, there is no room for miracles, nor for a book about miracles. How…
Apologetics 101: The Lie of Evolution (65 min)
Apologetics 101 – PART 3 of 5 The foundation upon which the secular and naturalistic worldview of the mainstream media, the mainstream political parties and the academic establishment rests, is Darwinism. While the Enlightenment got rid of Scripture and turned theists into deists, it was Darwin who got rid of God and turned deists into atheists. Richard Dawkins has famously remarked that Darwin’s theory of evolution “made it possible to become an intellectually fulfilled atheist”. But what if evolution is…
Apologetics 101: The Folly of Atheism (57 min)
Apologetics 101 – PART 2 of 5 The Bible doesn’t beat about the bush. Twice over it says “The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God’.” In this presentation, Michael Penfold expounds this biblical conclusion, as he examines the folly of a system of thought that posits “everything came from nothing by chance”. Rather than acknowledge the existence of God, atheism throws up endless arguments trying to get round the obvious. Why? Not because atheists cannot believe in God,…
Apologetics 101: The Existence of Truth (51 min)
Apologetics 101 – PART 1 of 5 Pilate’s question is still the most fundamental of all: “What is truth?”. In this audio presentation, follow the trail of truth from the pre-modern era, through the modern era to the post-modern era of today. Learn how truth was fractured during the Enlightenment through the radical ideas of Descartes, Locke, Hume and Kant. Trace the West’s 400 year descent into madness as it ‘progressed’ from rationalism, to empiricism, to agnosticism, to nihilism, to…
Believing the Impossible (40 min)
Michael Penfold preaches a message to encourage the weary Christian. He highlights three Bible characters: one who believed the impossible, another who saw the invisible, and a third who understood the inscrutable. Despite their internal frailties and external difficulties, these exemplary men lived by faith and overcame. May God give us help in our weariness to do the same (Recorded May 25th 2017)
The Importance of the Local Assembly (35 min)
Dedication to the local assembly is a central teaching of the New Testament epistles. A casual approach to attendance and participation is widespread. Michael Penfold contends that a believer should be fully committed to the principles and practices of the local assembly (Recorded 8th Nov 2008)
Gathering Unto His Name (38 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the meaning of the Biblical expression “gathering in the name of the Lord” and its implication for local assembly testimony (Recorded Dec 13th 2007)
What Does it Mean to be Born Again? (28 min)
The Lord Jesus told Nicodemus “You must be born again” (John 3:7). But what does it mean to be born again? Michael Penfold preaches on how to be born again, outlining the need, nature and results of the new birth. (Recorded 7th Jan 2007)
How the Father Disciplines His Children (30 min)
A message on the topic of “chastening” – God the Father’s loving discipline of His sons, designed to correct our faults and develop our character. Three categories of chastening are outlined: verbal, judicial and developmental. Both the nature and purpose of each one are examined, accompanied by examples from Scripture. Readings: 1 Pet 4:17-18, Rev 3:19, 2 Tim 3:16-17, 1 Cor 11:30-32, Heb 12:4-13. (Recorded 2nd Dec 2018)
Is It Right? (42 min)
Is it right to dance? Is it right to play cards? Is it right to watch movies, to smoke, or to drink socially? These questions come up repeatedly. So, how do we answer from the Bible? In this message Michael Penfold outlines a 3-part filter through which to run tricky questions: 1. biblical precepts, 2. biblical practices and 3. biblical principles. He then outlines 6 principles by which to come to a decision on such matters before the Lord. A…
God Will Keep His Promises to Israel (and to you) (43 min)
What is the greatest example in the Bible of God keeping a promise? Working from Ezekiel Ch 20, this sermon sets out to prove that God’s ancient promise to Abraham of a nation and a land “for an everlasting possession” has still to be fulfilled, and will be so when Christ returns and sets up His millennial Kingdom. If God does not keep that promise, how can you be sure He will keep His New Covenant promises of salvation and…
Fear Not I am With You (51 min)
“Fear not, for I am with you” is a favourite verse of many from Isaiah 43:5. There are 5 people in the Bible to whom this promise was given – people who experienced the presence of the Lord in a special way due to the trials through which they passed. Learn in this sermon why there are more “fear nots” in Isaiah than any other Old Testament book and learn too how the presence of Christ is the greatest comfort…
One Person – Two Natures (36 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the incarnation of Christ. Answering the mistaken idea that “the Lord took nothing from Mary”, Michael proves from Scripture that our incarnate Saviour was both conceived in and connected to His mother, and that this fact is vital for our redemption. In addition, the fact that the Lord Jesus had two natures – deity and humanity – in one person (‘hypostatic union’) is expounded. It is vital that Christ’s person is never divided, and His natures…
