Sermons by Michael Penfold
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. (Message preached 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. (Message preached 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)
A Basic Introduction to Separation from the World (38 min)
Michael Penfold gives a basic introduction to the topic of separation from the world. 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) Video to be uploaded to YouTube in due course. Click here for accompanying handout (Letter size) Complete series on Bible basics: The Church of God Gospel…
A Basic Introduction to Family, Marriage and Home (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: The Church of God Gospel Preaching The 7 Dispensations Marriage, Family and the Home Separation from the…
A Basic Introduction to 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: The Church of God Gospel Preaching The 7 Dispensations Marriage, Family and the Home Separation from the World Reach us at: contact@gospelhallaudio.org
A Basic Introduction to Gospel Preaching (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: The Church of God Gospel Preaching The 7 Dispensations Marriage, Family and the Home Separation from the World Reach us at: contact@gospelhallaudio.org
A Basic Introduction to the 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: The Church of God Gospel Preaching The 7 Dispensations Marriage, Family and the Home Separation from the World The 8 chapters of Mr…
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. (Message preached 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. (Message preached in Langley, BC, Canada, 10th May 2023) Complete Series – What every Christian should know Knowing for sure you are saved Knowing you…
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. (Message preached 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)…
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. (Message preached 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).
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 (Message preached in Chalfont St Peter Gospel Hall, 13th Nov 2022)
The Greatest Thoughts that Ever Entered my Mind (37 min)
Michael Penfold relates the story of his conversion to Christ. He highlights a series of 4 life-changing thoughts that entered his mind as he heard the truth of the Bible preached in his youth, which led to his salvation. (Message preached in Chalfont St Peter, 30th Oct 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. To understand this verse is to have one’s life totally, radically and permanently revolutionised. 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. Christ bought me for a purpose – to…
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…
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…
The Sovereignty of God (43 min)
THE ATTRIBUTES OF GOD – Michael Penfold preaches on the self-existence, self-sufficiency and sovereignty of God. He addresses the question, “If God is sovereign, how can man be free?” (Message preached 11th Mar 2010)
“I’m a sister. What can I do?” (44 min)
What is a sister’s ministry and what role can sisters play in the service of the Lord? Living, as we do, in a culture that promotes feminism and much else that is contrary to Scripture, it is vital for us to understand exactly what the Bible says on this issue and why. Michael Penfold outlines 5 particular avenues of service that are open to and designed for Christian women and seeks to strengthen and encourage sisters in fulfilling their potential…
Behold the Man! (50 min)
Michael Penfold preaches a wide-ranging message on the person of Christ, based on Pilate’s exclamation “Behold the Man!”, under 7 headings. Behold the deity of this man, the humanity of this man, the humility of this man, the purity of this man, the consistency of this man, the ability of this man, the victory of this man. Reading: John 19:1-6 (Message preached in Derriaghy, 2017) (Photo above: the “Garden Tomb” in Jerusalem)
The Heavens Do Rule (13 min)
The financial crisis; climate change; Brexit; US riots and elections; big-tech domination; Coronavirus. The list of stressful issues and crises just keeps growing. How should a Christian react to a “world out of control”? Michael Penfold reminds us of the words of Dan 4:26, “The heavens do rule”. We worship a God who is sovereign over all and who delights to make even the wrath of man to praise Him (Message preached in Newtownstewart, Co Tyrone, Jan 1st 2017).
Part 4 – How to Communicate the Gospel (52 min)
In the last of a 4-part series of messages on gospel communication, Michael Penfold speaks on how to present a gospel message. Preachers should preach with authority, dignity, sensitivity, simplicity, clarity, cogency, authenticity, solemnity, intensity and fervency. Michael gives practical advice on how to maintain attention throughout; opening and closing in prayer; the use of notes; gestures; eye contact and the use of the human voice. Reading: Ecc 12:10-11 (Message given in Northampton, UK, 2018)
Part 3 – How to Communicate the Gospel (43 min)
In the third of a 4-part series of messages on gospel communication, Michael Penfold speaks on how to prepare a gospel message. First, the preacher needs to be prepared, then the sermon. Michael outlines the three main genres of sermon before discussing the preparation process and how to structure a message, providing helpful hints that should benefit young men who are starting out. Readings: Rom 1:16-17, 1 Cor 2:1-5, 1 Tim 4:13-16, 2 Tim 3:15, 4:1-5 (Message given in Northampton,…
Part 2 – How to Communicate the Gospel (55 min)
In the second of a 4-part series of messages on gospel communication, Michael Penfold lays out the essential content of the gospel message. He gives a three-fold proof from Scripture that “the gospel” consists of the three “R’s” – man’s ruin (sin), God’s remedy (Christ crucified) and man’s responsibility (repent and believe). The rest of the message is taken up explaining how to effectively preach man’s ruin (that he might be brought to repentance) and how to preach the cross…
Part 1 – How To Communicate the Gospel (41 min)
In the first of a 4-part series of messages on gospel communication, Michael Penfold takes up the subject of “the divine method of communication”. He shows from Scripture that God has not only given us a message, but a method: preaching. He outlines 4 ways in which preaching is superior to the performing arts in communicating the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. If you think “preaching doesn’t work any more”, you need to listen to this message! Readings: Mark…
Great Are The Offices He Bears (48 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the three great mediatorial offices of the Messiah – ‘prophet’, ‘priest’ and ‘king’. The only person able to hold all three offices at one time is the Lord Jesus. The character, purpose and timing of each of these roles of Christ is examined, with special attention being given to His priesthood. The title of this message is taken from Samuel Medley’s famous hymn, “Come let us sing the matchless worth”, which contains the lines, “Great are…
Understanding Saving Faith (40 min)
PART 2 of 2 – Michael Penfold preaches on the foundational doctrine of saving faith under 4 headings: 1. A definition of faith; 2. The principle of faith; 3. The nature of faith and 4. The results of faith. What does it mean to believe in Christ? Why do some people have trouble believing? These and other vital questions are explored in a message that will help anyone struggling with assurance, as well as anyone involved in spreading the gospel…
Understanding Repentance (40 min)
PART 1 of 2 – Michael Penfold preaches on the fundamentally important foundational doctrine of repentance under 5 headings: 1. Why study repentance? 2. What is the link between repentance and faith? 3. What is repentance? 4. How does repentance come about? 5. What are the fruits of repentance? This rarely dealt with subject is vital, for unless we understand repentance we will be unable to properly preach the gospel. Readings: Matt 4:17, Luke 13:3, 15:17-19, 24:46-47, Acts 2:37-38a, 20:20-21,…
What Is Life All About? (32 min)
In a message directed to the hearts of the young, Michael Penfold preaches on the fundamental question facing us all – “What is life all about?”. What is my life about? He answers this question with three negatives: 1. Life’s not about things, 2. Life’s not about me, and 3. Life’s not about now. Life is about living for Christ and his interests, in the light of eternity! To understand these things and put them into practice is the constant…
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…
At Evening It Shall Be Light (34 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the glorious prospect of the Lord’s coming from Zech 14:7 “At evening time it shall be light”. In the midst of the darkness, sorrow and perplexities of this present era, the Christian has a sure and certain hope that all will one day be well – when He comes! A message to encourage, uplift and strengthen (Message preached Oct 2016)
Esther – A Queen who Understood the Times (42 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on Queen Esther, who “came to the Kingdom for such a time as this“. How well do we understand the uniquely difficult times in which we live? Ours is the age of “Richard Dawkins, Lady Gaga and amazon.com”. In other words, for us, “Persian culture” is the inescapable all-pervasive influence of the enlightenment, the sexual revolution and consumerism, both in the world around us and in our pocket. Before we can effectively live for Christ, we need…
Joseph – A Young Man in a Difficult Situation (36 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on Joseph (from Genesis 37 & 39), a young man who stood for God in difficult circumstances. He overcame the bad influence of older siblings, the unwise favouritism of his father, the betrayal of his brothers and the vice and lies his master’s wife. But perhaps even greater than all of this was his victory over victimhood. He didn’t see himself as a victim. He didn’t fall into self-pity. He trusted in a sovereign God and thereby,…
Witnessing to Jehovah’s Witnesses (47 min)
Michael Penfold outlines the identity, origins, practices and beliefs of the Jehovah’s Witnesses before giving some guidance on how to effectively witness to them. Since the JW’s own Bible version, the New World Translation, has deliberately corrupted verses like John 1:1, Col 1:15-18 and Heb 1:8 (in order to avoid and deny the truth of the deity of Christ) Michael suggests a few other other passages that can be used just as effectively to teach the truth about Christ to…
Sign No 5 – The Storm on the Lake (39 min)
PART 6 – Michael Penfold preaches on the 5th sign in John’s gospel, the calming of the storm on the lake (and the walking on the water), from John Ch 6. After an introduction about how John in his first 12 chapters interweaves the “words” and the “works” of the Son, Michael looks at how the 5th sign proves that Jesus is the Son of God. He also explains how God’s dispensational dealings with the nation of Israel are seen…
Using Tracts, Signs and Websites in Evangelism (39 min)
After setting out the 7 Biblical tests that all evangelistic outreach methods must pass, Michael Penfold encourages Christians to make use of tracts, booklets, gospel signs and websites to spread the gospel of Christ. He outlines the tremendous potential of tracts and gives guidance about their content and various methods of giving them out, including 9 tips for passing out tracts in the streets of our towns and cities. “The only failure in evangelism is when we fail to evangelise”…
The Primacy of Preaching – Part 2 (44 min)
Michael Penfold addresses the question: is a “gospel meeting” a scriptural meeting? After outlining the history of how distinct regular gospel-preaching meetings have almost died out in the West, Michael sets out a scriptural case for continuing to hold them, both indoors and outdoors, based 1. on the meaning of the word “gospel” in the New Testament and 2. on the examples of Peter and Paul in the book of Acts. Readings: Mark 16:15, 1 Cor 9:16, Acts 10:34-48 (Message…
The Prison Prayers of Paul (38 min)
Michael Penfold looks at the prayer life and the 4 “prison prayers” of Paul – a prayer for enlightenment (Eph 1:15-23); a prayer for enablement (Eph 3:14-21); a prayer for enlargement (Phil 1:9-11); and a prayer for enrichment (Col 1:9-14). (Message preached 21st July 2019)
The Prayers of Hannah (37 min)
Michael Penfold takes a look at the two prayers of Hannah – her supplication in 1 Samuel Ch 1 and her thanksgiving in Ch 2. Her first prayer was heartfelt, intelligent, reverent and selfless, while her second revealed her appreciation of God’s salvation, His attributes, His sovereignty and His purposes. (Message preached 19th May 2019)
Exposition of 1 Timothy Ch 6 (42 min)
Michael Penfold expounds 1 Timothy Ch 6 in which the Ephesian false teachers are condemned, and Timothy, the man of God, is charged – to “keep the commandment” and “guard the deposit”. The apostle Paul exposes those who view godliness as a way to make money and gives general warnings against covetousness. This issue is highly relevant in our day when the “prosperity gospel” is being promoted by false teachers like T.D. Jakes, Joyce Meyer, Joel Osteen and Brian Houston…
Why I Am a Futurist (45 min)
There are 4 main views of the timing of the book of Revelation: preterism, historicism, idealism and futurism. Michael Penfold explains that how we choose between them ultimately comes down to how we interpret Bible prophecy. He sets out the general laws of hermeneutics and then gives specific direction as to how to interpret prophetic symbols. He finishes by testing the 4 views against three items in the book of Revelation (Message preached 14th Apr 2019)
Why I Am Complementarian (43 min)
Michael Penfold expounds complementarianism – that truth that God not only created two different genders in the beginning, but that He assigned different roles to each – headship to the male, and ‘helper-ship’ to the female. Opposed by feminism, this is nevertheless the plain teaching of Genesis Ch 2 (before the fall) and is reiterated in 7 key passages in the NT – Eph 5:21-23, Col 3:18-19, 1 Tim 2:8-15, Titus 2:4-5, 1 Cor 11:1-16, 14:34-38, 1 Pet 3:1-7 (Message…
Why I am in an Assembly (37 min)
After defining the words “fellowship” (Gk: koinonia) and “assembly” (Gk: ekklesia), Michael Penfold sets out 3 reasons “Why I am in fellowship in a local assembly”. First, because of the purpose of God; second, because of the presence of Christ; and third, because of the pattern of Scripture. The Bible expects all believers to be in a local assembly gathered unto the name of the Lord Jesus. Readings: Matt 18:20, Acts 2:41-42, 9:26-28, 15:14. (Message preached 24th Feb 2019)
Why I Am a Christian (44 min)
A Christian is someone who has been justified by faith in Jesus Christ. But how can a person know that Jesus Christ really existed, or that He is who the Bible claims Him to be, or that He really died and rose again? Michael Penfold outlines 5 basic lines of evidence for the Christian faith: 1. The eye-witness testimony of Scripture; 2. The fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy; 3. The existence of the church; 4. The martyrdom of the apostles,…
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). (Message preached 2nd Dec 2018)
The Doctrine of Original Sin (39 min)
Can we still believe that taking the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil in the Garden of Eden rightfully initiated such a fearful divine judgment on humanity as “the fall”? In this message on Genesis Ch 3, Michael Penfold outlines the context, cause, character and consequences of the first sin. God’s fairness in banishing Adam and Eve from the garden, and constituting all of their progeny sinners due to “one man’s sin” – is defended.…
Upon this Rock (39 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the Lord’s statement in Matt 16:18-19; “Thou art Peter and upon this rock I will build My church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven”. Questions addressed in this message include, “When did the church begin?”, “Who is the rock upon which the church is built?” and “What are the keys of the Kingdom of heaven?” (Message preached 11th Oct…
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…
The Fashion of the World (43 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on separation from the world in connection with clothing, jewellery, cosmetics, piercing and tattoos. After establishing the fact that the Bible is concerned with the outward appearance of God’s people, Michael outlines 10 scriptural “guiding principles” by which to judge all issues of dress and appearance. Scripture readings: Prov 6:24-25, 7:10, Eze 23:40, 44, 1 Tim 2:8-10, 1 Pet 3:3-4 (Message preached 7th Jun 2018)
Assembly Separation (39 min)
Michael Penfold examines the history, beliefs and influence of two dangerous forces within Christendom – the Ecumenical and Charismatic Movements. Warnings and guidance are given from scripture, combined with an exhortation to “Come out from among them and be separate” (2 Cor 6:17) (Message preached 18th May 2014)
Should Christians Keep the Sabbath? (44 min)
After listing 6 reasons why God gave the Sabbath, Michael Penfold proves that the Saturday Sabbath was a ceremonial, not a moral law, and that it was not instituted until Sinai. It was a “shadow” that gave way to the “substance” at the coming of Christ. He also looks at why believers meet on Sundays today, which the Bible calls “the Lord’s Day” (Message preached 13th May 2018)
