First Baptist Church of Asheville

“Whose Image Is This?” (Matthew 22:15-22) - Mack Dennis

Sun, 18 Oct 2026 14:32:48 -0000

October 18, 2026. Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost. Year A.

The leaders approach Jesus with a conniving riddle: Do we pay taxes to Caesar or not? If Jesus says yes, he angers the anti-Roman crowd, but if he says no, he invites Rome’s wrath. Jesus circumvents the plot by exposing the idolatry of his questioners, who produce a graven image (the coin) in full view of any bystanders. They marvel at Jesus’ final question and response, “Give to God the things that are God’s.” But Jesus prompts us all to consider a lesson engraved in his clever response, “What does being made in the image of God require of me?”

Scripture: Matthew 22:15-22
Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Cover art: Power Play, Lisle Gwynn Garrity [Lisle Gwynn Garrity | A Sanctified Art LLC | sanctifiedart.org

Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Chapel Study: The Power of Collective Memory in Scripture - Casey Callahan

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 15:15:21 -0000

Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

Collective memory plays a vital role in how we understand and practice our faith. From the Old Testament commandment to "Remember the Sabbath" to Jesus' command to "Do this in remembrance of me" at the Lord's Supper, there's a divine purpose and real power to the practice of sacred memory. This one-week adult Bible study led by Casey Callahan will explore the Power of Memory in Scripture.

Leader: Rev. Dr. Casey Callahan

Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

"God Keeps Us Together" (Philippians 4:1-9) - Mack Dennis

Sun, 11 Oct 2026 14:07:55 -0000

October 11, 2026. Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A.

Focusing on v. 7, “And the peace of God...will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus,” I’ll preach to the children today in order to share biblical images of God “keeping” us. God keeps the Israelites together in the struggle of the wilderness. Jesus wishes to gather us “as a hen gathers her chicks” (Mt. 23:37). In John, Jesus promises to “draw all people to myself” (12:32). The author of Hebrews urges us to believers not to give up meeting together, but to motivate one another to love and do good deeds (Heb. 10:24-25).

Scripture: Philippians 4:1-9
Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Cover art: Together, River Bradley (Third grader)

Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Conversing with Creation (Psalm 19) — Mack Dennis

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 13:11:44 -0000

October 4, 2026. Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost (World Communion). Year A.

Psalm 19 praises creation and describes it as “telling” and “proclaiming.” We learn the heavens and the earth are really quite eloquent, even if “their voice is not heard.” The poem quickly shifts to describe the life-giving eloquence of the law (Torah). The Psalm’s structure invites us to see God’s creation and God’s word in mutually illuminating conversation. Creation elicits our awe and wonder, while God’s word deepens our perception, care, and enjoyment of creation, allowing its inarticulate beauty to “speak” with even more power.

Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

A Communion of Courage (Matthew 21:23-32) — Mack Dennis

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 18:26:32 -0000

September 27, 2026. Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A.

The tax collectors and prostitutes are already going into the kingdom of God ahead of the chief priests? Ouch, that's gotta hurt. Jesus isn't describing a future occurrence, but a present reality. All the wrong kinds of people have received the good news and believed and begun making their way inside, while the religious veterans are still trying to check IDs at the door. No matter our station in life, though, Jesus places the emphasis on changing our minds and bending our lives to God's will, and he points us to all the wrong kinds of people for direction.

Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays for Bible study at 10:00 a.m.. and worship at 11:00 a.m. Learn more at fbca.net.

The Injustice of Grace (Matthew 20:1-16) — Mack Dennis

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 14:23:30 -0000

September 20, 2026. Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A.

All the laborers, even those arriving at day's end, get paid the same salary. What kind of twisted wage theft is this? Then the landowner places the late laborers in the front of the line so the early laborers witness his strange generosity. It's just not...just. Pair this with the lectionary's glimpse of Jonah's insolence about Nineveh, and we discover this Sunday's texts are designed to provoke a mutiny among those of us who've been doing most of the work. Or maybe they're designed instead to open our hearts to the glad news of God's unjust grace.

Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays for Bible study at 10:00 a.m.. and worship at 11:00 a.m. Learn more at fbca.net.

Creative Sabotage (Exodus 14:19-31) — Mack Dennis

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 19:57:47 -0000

September 13, 2026. Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Recipe for Salvation (Exodus 12:1-14) — Mack Dennis

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 16:08:50 -0000

September 6, 2026. Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A.

The core of the Passover story provides a detailed sequence of food preparation and mealtime. God not only commands the Israelites to prepare the lamb just so but also to eat it hurriedly. The meal upon which the Lord's Supper is founded is no casual affair, but fuel for a dangerous departure from domination, nourishment for a great escape from slavery, a communal meal to commemorate God's deliverance from the powers that be.

Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays for Bible study at 10:00 a.m.. and worship at 11:00 a.m. Learn more at fbca.net.

Turn Aside and See (Exodus 3:1-15) — Mack Dennis

Sun, 30 Aug 2026 16:04:57 -0000

August 30, 2026. Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A.

Though the bush is aflame, the Lord doesn't speak to Moses until the curious shepherd "turns aside to see." The text's repetition of this benign phrase, "turn aside," makes it glow with more significance. The author directs our attention to God's appreciation for Moses' ability to discern the Lord's presence. As we ordain deacons today, we give thanks for those with the prophetic sensitivity to God's mysteries and revelations, while also recognizing that once those who do finally "turn aside to see" God are soon thereafter sent on a mission.

Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays for Bible study at 10:00 a.m.. and worship at 11:00 a.m. Learn more at fbca.net.

A Liturgy of Life (Romans 12:1-8) — Casey Callahan

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 14:37:39 -0000

August 23, 2026. Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Casey Callahan Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Out of the Cave (1 Kings 19:9-18) — Mae Craig

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 14:11:00 -0000

August 9, 2026. Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Mae Craig Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

What Was He Thinking? (Matthew 15:21-28) — Tambi Swiney

Sun, 16 Aug 2026 14:17:48 -0000

August 16, 2026. Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A.

Preacher: Rev. Tambi Swiney

Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Apostles of Genuineness (Romans 12:9-21) — Craig Hines

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:38:10 -0000

July 26, 2026. Ninth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Craig Hines Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

A Righteous Reconciliation of Rest (Matthew 11:28-30) — Craig Hines

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 14:24:43 -0000

July 19, 2026. Eighth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Craig Hines Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Beyond Failure (Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23) — Doug Murray

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 12:38:31 -0000

July 12, 2026. Seventh Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Doug Murray Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Remembering Toward Hope (1 Corinthians 11:23-26) — Mary Caldwell

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 12:35:21 -0000

July 5, 2026. Sixth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Mary Caldwell Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Forming an Imagination to Remember (Genesis 3:22-24) — Craig Hines

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 13:40:02 -0000

June 28, 2026. Fifth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Craig Hines Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Foreshadows From a Father (Genesis 22:1-14) — Craig Hines

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:06:12 -0000

June 21, 2026. Fourth Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Craig Hines Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Sitting on the Promises of God (Genesis 18:1-15) — Casey Callahan

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 16:42:51 -0000

June 14, 2026. Third Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Casey Callahan Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Mercy, Not Sacrifice (Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26) — Kendra Plating

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 14:05:09 -0000

June 7, 2026. Second Sunday after Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Kendra Plating Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Be Restored (Matthew 28:16-20) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:24:44 -0000

May 31, 2026. Trinity Sunday. Year A. On his last Sunday before sabbatical, Mack recalls Paul’s benediction to bless the church and offer words of instruction and encouragement. Focusing on the charge, “Be restored,” he invites everyone to look forward to the summer as a unique time to rest, reflect, and enjoy the anticipation of a new season of ministry together. Inherent in Paul’s instruction is not an admonition to try to be restored, but more simply to be who God has already enabled us to be “by the grace of the Lord Jesus, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit.” Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

All In Awe (Acts 2:43-47) — Nancy Hastings Sehested

Tue, 26 May 2026 20:22:03 -0000

May 24, 2026. Day of Pentecost. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Nancy Hastings Sehested Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

A Grand Pause (Acts 1:1-11) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 20 May 2026 15:05:55 -0000

May 17, 2026. Ascension Sunday. Year A. In the time between Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, he gathers the disciples to tell them, in essence, “Don’t lift a finger until the Spirit comes.” For even now they’re still not ready to go on mission without divine assistance (their lingering question about restoring the kingdom of Israel highlights their unreadiness). Like a symphony orchestra in a grand pause, all eyes are on the conductor, waiting for their cue. Jesus’ ascension commences a time of waiting, listening, prayer, and preparation, until the baton waves again and the Spirit descends. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

He Descended to the Dead (1 Peter 3:13-22) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 12 May 2026 20:38:12 -0000

May 10, 2026. Sixth Sunday of Easter. Year A. What in the world does Peter mean Jesus “made a proclamation to the spirits in prison” (v. 19)? Interpretations of this verse range from strange and ridiculous to hopeful and wonderful. Today we will attempt to offer the latter by proclaiming the all-encompassing power of Christ’s victory over sin and death. Peter’s testimony not only discloses the depths of Jesus’ saving reach—across space and time and life and death—but also that through baptism we become members of the great congregation, both living and dead, who hear his message of grace. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

My Times Are In Your Hand (Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 12 May 2026 20:36:17 -0000

May 3, 2026. Fifth Sunday of Easter. Year A. Though the Psalmist is in distress, she expresses complete trust in God. Even as she pleads for help, she’s also commending herself to God’s care. Verse 4 captures this dynamic of simultaneous plea and expression of trust: “Take me out of the net…you are my refuge.” Her prayer beautifully captures what faith looks like in times of trouble. With the deep conviction that her times are in God’s hand, she trusts that even if she can’t be “safe” from danger, she is nevertheless in God’s safekeeping. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Life to the Fullest (John 10:1-10) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:24:41 -0000

April 26, 2026. Fourth Sunday of Easter. Year A. Drawing on Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23, and John 10:1-10, this sermon describes the gifts and joys of abundant life in Christ. The Acts text helps us see in practical terms what Jesus in John calls “abundant life.” The Psalm’s cup overflowing enriches the pairing of Acts and John, because the Greek for abundant conveys superabundance, excess, more than necessary. Jesus has come to bring us just this kind of overflowing life that really is life—life brimming with devotion, prayer, communion, sharing, generosity, and growth. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

What’s In a Name? (John 20:19-31) — Paula Garrett

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:55:50 -0000

April 12, 2026. Second Sunday of Easter. Year A. Preacher: Dr. Paula Garrett Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Premeditated Forgiveness (Matthew 26:26-35) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 20:12:43 -0000

April 2, 2026. Maundy Thursday. Year A. Matthew chapter 26 is not a good look for the disciples. One of them betrays Jesus. The rest promise not to desert him. Several fall asleep repeatedly even as Jesus is clearly grieving and disturbed. And yet, throughout the narrative, Jesus forgives. Most prominently, he describes the cup of his blood poured out “for the forgiveness of sins” (we find this only in Matthew). Who is this that forgives sinners in advance? Tonight may we gather in awe and gratitude for this Jesus who invites sure and certain sinners to the table of forgiveness. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Security Breach (Matthew 28:1-10) — Mack Dennis

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 14:53:36 -0000

April 5, 2026. Easter Sunday. Year A. Putting Matthew’s resurrection account in the context of the preceding verses highlights Jesus’ triumphant victory over death. Though the religious authorities made a special mission of requesting from Pilate an extra security detail for the tomb, their efforts were no match for the power of God. The earthquake effortlessly snaps the seal. The grave could not hold him (Acts 2:24). The power of death? Jesus gives it the slip. Today we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection, God’s subversive victory over death’s cold grip. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Gentle King (Matthew 21:1-11) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:27:03 -0000

March 29, 2026. Palm Sunday. Year A. Scholars argue over whether Matthew misinterpreted Zechariah, leading him to place Jesus awkwardly upon two animals—a donkey and her colt. But perhaps Matthew offers this detail in order to emphasize the different kind of king Jesus is. Jesus will not wield a sword or rule by force. Neither will he separate a mother donkey from her child, for “a bruised reed he will not break.” This curious aspect of Jesus’ triumphal entry further manifests the depth of God’s gentleness, humility, and peaceableness. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

A Blast From Heaven (Ezekiel 37:1-14) — Mack Dennis

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:24:14 -0000

March 22, 2026. Fifth Sunday in Lent. Year A. The title comes from Abraham Heschel’s description of the prophet as one who feels “the blast from heaven” and can’t help but “scream in the night.” Enter Ezekiel, who, despite the horrors he’s witnessed in exile, still lifts his head in faith to speak to dry bones on God’s behalf. Today we stand in awe of God’s power to inspire new life in human remains, as well as Ezekiel’s searing refusal to despair. The combination of divine power and mortal obedience opens a blast from heaven against which the power of death is no match. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Lenten Vespers: Week V “Candles in the Rain”

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:39:21 -0000

Lenten Vespers: Week III “Dust That Holds Light”

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:15:48 -0000

Another Scandalous Sabbath (John 9:13-41) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:38:31 -0000

March 15, 2026. Fourth Sunday in Lent. Year A. One gets to the end of the story of the man born blind and has to wonder, “Why did the authorities raise such a ruckus about his healing?” They interrogate him multiple times and even call his parents to testify. Why can’t they simply rejoice with him? But Jesus’ miracle has more than offended their religious sensibilities. Having done what only God can do, Jesus has upended the moral order. The beggar becomes the teacher, while the teachers become blind. This great reversal, Jesus says, is precisely why “I came into this world.” Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

A Live-Action Conversion (John 4:5-42) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:32:22 -0000

March 8, 2026. Third Sunday in Lent. Year A. Like a play-by-play announcer, John relays the conversion of a Samaritan woman in real time. We get to observe up close a person’s faith being born, growing, and even spreading. What conditions make her conversion possible? First, Jesus sees past the social constructs that would otherwise prevent their ever speaking to each other. Jesus also accepts rather than condemns her rocky past. Even more, he offers the woman a fresh and compelling vision of God she’s never considered or imagined. Now let the church ask, “Who’s next?” Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Lenten Vespers: Week II “Dust That Holds Light”

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:44:57 -0000

Original Blessing (Genesis 12:1-4a) — Casey Callahan

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:15:41 -0000

March 1, 2026. Second Sunday in Lent. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Casey Callahan Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Lenten Vespers: Week I “Dust That Holds Light”

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:33:27 -0000

The Temptation of Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 20:08:59 -0000

February 22, 2026. First Sunday in Lent. Year A. Each temptation of Jesus bears a striking resemblance to the idols of empire (one scholar compares them, respectively, to the “bread, circuses, and political power” with which Roman citizens would have been familiar). Jesus rejects them all with his Scriptural wisdom and devotion to God. The grand gift of Jesus’ resistance to temptation is the establishment of a new kind of kingdom in contrast to the kingdoms of this world that are passing away—an eternal kingdom rooted in God’s word, trust, and holy reverence. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Shining (Matthew 17:1-9) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:45:29 -0000

February 15, 2026. Transfiguration Sunday. Year A. “And his face shone like the sun…” In a moment of astonishing metamorphosis, Jesus becomes light—his face as bright as the sun, the fabric of his clothes made only of photons. Jesus’ shining recalls God’s fiery presence with Moses on Mt. Sinai and anticipates his stunning revelation as “one like the Son of Man” to John of Patmos. Here is Jesus, the Son of God, the Son of Humanity, the Beloved, transfigured in glory. The voice from the cloud calls us all to listen to this One with whom God is well pleased. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

A Hidden Mystery (1 Corinthians 2:1-12) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:06:52 -0000

February 8, 2026. Fifth Sunday after Epiphany. Year A. Paul takes pains to describe his peculiar mode of speech. He doesn’t arrive as a silver-tongued orator, doesn’t aim for persuasion, and only addresses a most relevant subject among the educated elite of Corinth—wisdom—in light of Jesus’ crucifixion. Rather, he speaks a new language, intelligible only to those who’ve received the Spirit. Recalling Anselm’s credo ut intelligam (“I believe so that I may understand”), today we gather to discern the gifts of baptized speech, delighting in its hidden mysteries and glimpses of “the depths of God.” Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

God Makes It Plain (Micah 6:1-8) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 18:06:27 -0000

February 1, 2026. Fourth Sunday after Epiphany. Year A. Micah 6:8, a favorite verse for many, showcases a quarrel between God and God’s people that centers on the shape of religious devotion. Like frustrated lovers arguing in public, God wonders, “What more could I have done for you?” while God’s people wonder, “What more do you want us to sacrifice?” God resolves the tension by distilling the essence of the law and the prophets. Perhaps to Israel’s surprise, God asks only for justice, kindness, and humility—far less than they expected, but also far more than they imagined. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Immediacy of Ministry (Matthew 4:12-23) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 18:01:55 -0000

January 25, 2026. Third Sunday after Epiphany. Year A. “Immediately they left their nets and followed him,” Matthew says (v. 20). The phrase appears again in verse 22, “Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him.” Jesus’ call inspires prompt responses from the first disciples. On one hand, we can imagine the disciples being bored with their small town fishing villages and eager for adventure. On the other, commercial fishing ain’t that bad a way to spend a life. Maybe what’s really going on is that Jesus’ voice is so compelling, and the adventure to which he calls us is so fresh, new, and inspiring that when we truly hear his clarion call we can’t imagine responding any other way. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Servant Songs, Pt. 2 (Isaiah 49:1-7) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 14:49:40 -0000

January 18, 2026. Second Sunday after Epiphany. Year A. In the second Servant Song, Isaiah discloses God’s intentions for post-exilic Israel to be “a light to the nations.” More specifically, God’s concern is for the returning exiles to focus their mission not merely on the recovery and reestablishment of their own tribes, but on being visible witnesses of God’s justice and freedom on behalf of a watching world. On this MLK, Jr. weekend, we recall how prophetic communities have embodied Isaiah’s vision. We’ll also recall the early Baptists’ dreams of a visible church and what that means for us today. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Home By Another Way (Matthew 2:1-12) — Paula Garrett

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 20:11:03 -0000

January 4, 2026. Second Sunday after Christmas. Year A. Preacher: Dr. Paula Garrett Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

The Subversiveness of Christmas (Matthew 2:13-23) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:41:00 -0000

December 28, 2025. First Sunday after Christmas Day. Year A. After Mary treasures and ponders in Luke, Matthew introduces us to a Joseph who dreams. There are two dreams in this passage, and Joseph is warned by an angel in both of them. Here is a side of Christmas we often pass over for its intense dangers and communal laments. But the threats to Jesus and his family mirror the contemporary dangers immigrants and asylum seekers experience today. Nevertheless, the good news is that God works through both our waking and dreaming to undermine the plots of the wicked and make a way where once there was no way. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

We Belong to Christmas (Romans 1:1-7) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 19:59:50 -0000

December 21, 2025. Fourth Sunday of Advent. Year A. Without knowing it (for he doesn’t focus on Christmas in the conventional sense), Paul’s salutation to the Romans is a distilled version of Christmas and the whole gospel story. This one sentence maps out all the high notes of our salvation history. A key phrase comes toward the end: “including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.” Like unsuspecting bystanders suddenly conscripted into the action, by God’s grace we, too, have become characters around the manger, “set apart for the gospel of God.” Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

How to Get Left Behind (Matthew 24:36-44) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 21:34:44 -0000

November 30, 2025. First Sunday of Advent. Year A. Though the rapture-mongers have convinced their followers they don’t want to be left behind on Judgment Day, Advent begins with Jesus trying to convince us otherwise. “Keep awake,” he says, with a warning about the suddenness of salvation’s arrival. Our readiness will depend on how we spend our time in the daily affairs of our lives. Do we go through the motions, merely “eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage”? Or do we live with a heightened sense that “whatever task you do, work as if your soul depends on it” (Col. 3:23)? Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

You, For Example (2 Thessalonians 3:6-13) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:05:56 -0000

November 16, 2025. Twenty-third Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. Paul commends to the Thessalonians an ancient method of learning—imitation (mimesis). Learning a skill comes not from watching but from following the example of someone with the skill you wish to acquire, sitting with them, mimicking their moves until you begin to get them down yourself. What’s at stake is the passing on of traditions that make possible “the life that really is life.” As well, such imitation ensures that each person in the community is doing their part to enable the flourishing of the whole. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Blessed Are You Who Weep (Luke 6:20-31) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 18:39:24 -0000

November 2, 2025. All Saints’. Year C. Where Matthew has Jesus staring off into the distance and saying, “Blessed are those who mourn,” Luke reveals how Jesus looks intently at us and declares, “Blessed are you who weep now.” Luke’s version of Jesus’ sermon is just right for this poignant day when we suffer to remember the saints who’ve gone before us. Without bypassing our pain or looking past our grief, Jesus looks straight into our teary eyes and proclaims a promising word: “You will laugh.” Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

At Home With God (Luke 18:9-14) — Casey Callahan

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 18:40:21 -0000

October 26, 2025. Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. Preacher: Rev. Casey Callahan Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

God’s Word Lives (2 Timothy 3:14-4:5) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 14:13:11 -0000

October 19, 2025. Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. “All scripture is inspired by God,” Paul writes. Notice, he doesn’t say “All scripture was inspired by God,” but all scripture is. The word of God is alive. It’s active. It moves. It darts to and fro. It springs forth. It pours down upon. It quickens and slows. It breathes. The Bible is not an old, outdated book but an exciting record of God’s works that never loses its power to touch our hearts. Today we enjoy the opportunity to teach our children to appreciate the lively and playful nature of scripture and all it has to teach us. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Faithful Stranger (Luke 17:11-19) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 20:47:38 -0000

October 12, 2025. Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. And he was a Samaritan. Of all ten lepers cleansed, only one returns to give thanks to God—and he was a Samaritan, a foreigner, an interloper. But not only does this Samaritan leper find himself healed of his disease, upon returning and praising God, Jesus informs him that “your faith has made you well.” So he’s not only healed, but also made well. Which means, presumably, the other nine didn’t get that far. The Samaritan’s gratitude is a bracing demonstration of a foreigner being an exemplar of faith. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Last Call for Generosity (Luke 16:19-31) — Mack Dennis

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:04:44 -0000

September 28, 2025. Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. The tale of the rich man and Lazarus is the only parable with named characters (Lazarus and Abraham). It’s significant that one of only two named people is a destitute human being who doubles as a rich person’s last chance for friendship with God. Lazarus may be one of those angels we can “entertain unawares” (Heb. 13:2). Even so, the rich man misses his opportunity to give himself a name, and finds himself on the other side of an impassable distance. The good news is that there’s still time for the living to straddle the fault line with generosity before it’s too late. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Make It Plain (Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4) — Mack Dennis

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:00:23 -0000

October 5, 2025. Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. Habakkuk calls us to cast a vision that can be written so succinctly it could fit on a sign a passing runner could read and understand. In a culture rife with lies, propaganda, and violence, isn’t it refreshing to remember our true identity and purpose as God’s people? This World Communion Sunday is an opportunity to be reminded of our part to play in a global congregation that undermines all the verbal gymnastics and legal jargon of the wicked. We’re called simply to let our yes be yes and no be no, to tell the truth and be faithful. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Sacred Savvy (Luke 16:1-13) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 20:15:08 -0000

September 21, 2025. Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. “Dishonest” is a misnomer, for the manager is not breaking laws (he’s arguably enacting Levitical law by cutting out the interest on commodities). Rather, we’re better off thinking of him as more of a trickster, a clever rascal whose actions somehow strengthen the relationships between his boss, customers, and himself. The master commends him for acting shrewdly, which raises a question: how might the church emulate the manager’s shrewdness in our contemporary context? What might an economically savvy church’s public witness look like? Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Vexing Celebrations (Luke 15:1-10) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 17:17:03 -0000

September 14, 2025. Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them,” the authorities grumble. Meanwhile, Jesus is rejoicing, and inviting us to do the same. For the lost are found, lives have been changed, and the kingdom has drawn near. What might happen when an entire congregation has a reputation for such “vexing celebrations”? Word travels quickly when there’s a place people can go to be forgiven, change their ways, and live their lives in communion with a people whose celebrations are never more jubilant than when a sinner repents. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Thou Mayest (Luke 14:25-33) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 21:09:17 -0000

September 7, 2025. Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. Today’s lectionary texts present us with “all or nothing” themes. God presents Israel with stark choices between life and death. Jesus calls the crowds to give up their possessions or forget following him. There are no neutral positions to be found. My title is a nod to Steinbeck’s definition of the Hebrew “timshel” in East of Eden, which he defines as “thou mayest.” In other words, there is no “fate” with Jews/Christians as there is in Greek mythology. The integrity of our faith consists of the length each one of us chooses to go to follow Jesus. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Cracked Cisterns (Jeremiah 2:4-13) — Casey Callahan

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 18:59:12 -0000

August 31, 2025. Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. Preacher: Rev. Casey Callahan Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

The Perseverance of the Saints (Hebrews 11:29-12:2) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 18:51:36 -0000

August 17, 2025. Tenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. Hebrews details accounts of biblical heroes before focusing on Christ’s life and witness as the superlative example, “the pioneer and perfecter”of suffering faith. The author conveys a deeper sense of suffering, asserting it’s not punishment but rather a sign of faithfulness. If anything, Jesus’ faithfulness—and faith in Jesus—invites more suffering than it relieves. While suffering for its own sake is not a virtue, we may be comforted to know that suffering as the result of faith aligns our lives with him who “has taken his seat at the right hand of God.” Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

How to Pester God (Luke 11:1-13) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 20:41:28 -0000

July 27, 2025. Seventh Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. Jesus adds an addendum to the Lord’s Prayer—a parable of one neighbor pestering another for three loaves of bread at midnight. Jesus encourages us in our prayers to be just as disruptive and even as “inconsiderate” as this pesky neighbor. He invites us to ask, and not only to ask but to search, and not only to ask and to search but also to knock after hours. In other words, Jesus teaches us not to be polite or try to protect God from our prayers, but to “cast all [our] cares” (1 Pet. 5:7) on God without regard for the Almighty’s busy schedule. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Starting Over (Amos 8:1-12) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:56:28 -0000

July 20, 2025. Sixth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. The “basket of summer fruit” God shows Amos is a play on words meaning “summer’s end.” In other words, it’s over. Winter is coming. Israel’s sins against the poor and needy have done irreparable harm and made God’s wrath and silence unavoidable. The good news is that this ending marks a segue to a new time of restoration and thriving. Amos’s prophecy invites Christians to ask what we might be glad to see coming to an end about our own history, and what joys we might find in the ways congregations are “starting over” today. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Finally Comes the Plumb Line (Amos 7:7-17) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:55:08 -0000

July 13, 2025. Fifth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. The first of a two-sermon series on the minor prophet Amos, this sermon points to the plumb line God shows him—a metaphor for God’s judgment—as a blessing in disguise for a people who’ve gone astray. Amos’s prophecy declares that there can be no justice without judgment. Therefore, God’s judgment on people and on nations is finally good news. Judgment enables us to see the crooked places that they may be made straight, and to open sore wounds that they may be healed. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Gratitude for a Reckoning (Psalm 30) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 19:38:02 -0000

July 6, 2025. Fourth Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. The Psalmist admits her former pride in v. 6, confessing, “I said in my prosperity, ‘I shall never be moved.’” But she’s grateful in retrospect that God hid God’s face from her for a time. God’s hiddenness provoked her to seek God in new and deeper ways, and with a more contrite heart. She’s finally grateful for this event in her life that allowed her to exchange a superficial (and listless) relationship with God for a more joyful, dancing faith. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

I’m Preparing for Re-Entry (Luke 15:11-24) — Craig Hines

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 16:24:05 -0000

June 29, 2025. Third Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Craig Hines Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

A Calamitous Miracle (Luke 8:26-39) — Tambi Swiney

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 20:03:58 -0000

June 22, 2025. Second Sunday after Pentecost. Year C. Preacher: Rev. Tambi Swiney Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

The Trinity Overflows (Romans 5:1-5) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 15:50:39 -0000

June 15, 2025. Trinity Sunday. Year C. Rather than offering a systematic description of the “Three Persons of the Trinity” (a concept the church would define later on), Paul here describes how the inner life of God “pours into our hearts.” The mysterious interplay of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit creates an excess of grace into which we are invited, and by which we are made able to endure suffering, develop character, and enjoy the hope that does not disappoint. Put simply by God’s grace we are given a share in the dynamic life of God. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Sound of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-21) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 19:04:17 -0000

June 8, 2025. Day of Pentecost. Year C. The Greek pneuma, from which we get the words wind, breath, spirit, stands out in a special way on Pentecost. And yet the moment Pentecost begins is not a rush of violent wind but “a sound like” the rush of a violent wind. Pentecost is a sound, and at this sound the crowd gathers in bewilderment. They aren’t confused by the message, but are instead amazed that they can actually understand it! Today we celebrate that the sound of Pentecost is the sound of the gospel beginning to make sense to us and to those all over the world with ears to hear. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Do You Want To Be Made Well? (John 5:1-9) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 27 May 2025 20:59:06 -0000

May 25, 2025. Sixth Sunday of Easter. Year C. Jesus’ question sounds odd. Who wouldn’t want to be made well? But the sick man’s reply is unconvincing. After 38 years he couldn’t figure out a way into the pool at Bethzatha? Couldn’t the sick man have put in a little more effort across the last four decades if he really wanted to be well? But on this Sabbath day, the good news is that the Lord of the Sabbath can’t help himself. On this day of rest and restoration, Jesus heals him anyway: “Stand up, take your mat and walk.” And in spite of his stammering excuses, the man is nevertheless made well. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

God’s Love Glorified (John 13:31-35) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 20 May 2025 19:00:40 -0000

May 18, 2025. Fifth Sunday of Easter. Year C. Typically we read this John passage at the height of Lent on Maundy Thursday, but it takes on a different hue in the Easter season. The pericope sits between Judas’s betrayal and Peter’s denial, strengthening the gravity of Jesus’ command to love one another. With Jesus going “where you cannot come,” what’s at stake with the church’s obedience is whether God’s glory will now be made visible in Jesus’ physical absence. Will the church glorify God with the love of Christ, or become “invisible” in the shadows of human agendas and cowardice? Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Last Rise First (Acts 9:36-43) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 12 May 2025 19:10:39 -0000

May 11, 2025. Fourth Sunday of Easter. Year C. Peter doesn’t raise just anyone, but a specific woman named Tabitha who had endeared herself to the wider community by serving the poor with her gifts. The early church held up Tabitha’s story because she lived her life for others. That her death leaves everyone crestfallen raises the question, “How might our own deaths affect others?” Learning how to live shapes how we die, and learning how to die shapes how we live. Tabitha’s life story invites us to examine our own lives, that we may begin planning for our funerals as soon as possible. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Liturgies of the Iconoclasts (Revelation 5:11-14) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 06 May 2025 18:38:59 -0000

May 4, 2025. Third Sunday of Easter. Year C. When John hears the myriads of angels and creatures and elders singing a new song, he isn’t witnessing a sentimental singalong. Rather, it’s more like a renegade chorus in the streets of the empire, a thunderous fight song growing in size and intensity within earshot of the rulers and authorities. The object of their worship, and the subject of this subversive choir’s praise, is not the emperor but the slaughtered Lamb. This gathering of iconoclasts sings from their diaphragm a new song of allegiance to the only one worthy of revealing God’s word. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Epilogue (John 20:19-31) — Will Arledge

Thu, 01 May 2025 14:55:47 -0000

April 27, 2025. Second Sunday of Easter. Year C. Preacher: Rev. Will Arledge Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Balderdash (Luke 24:1-12) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 02:29:17 -0000

April 20, 2025. Easter Sunday. Year C. When the women bring back the story of the angels’ message at the empty tomb, it seems to the apostles “an idle tale.” Nonsense. Balderdash. But as they respond with scoffing at this earliest report of the resurrection, Peter darts out the door and runs to the tomb. When he arrives, he sees only the linen clothes lying there and is amazed. Peter’s response to the first testimony of Easter invites us to consider our own response to the good news. Is the Easter story a load of hogwash, or the astonishing beginning of the new creation? Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Passion, Pt 2: Jesus’ Last Words (Luke 23:39-43) — Mack Dennis

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 15:01:27 -0000

April 17, 2025. Maundy Thursday. Year C. In the latter half of Luke 23, Jesus breaks his silence with the powers to speak to all people words of warning (weep not for me but for your children), wisdom (they know not what they do), blessing and comfort (you will be with me today in Paradise), and trust (Father, into your hands). This sermon highlights Jesus’ last words in Luke in order to show the fullness of Christ’s love for us in his suffering and death. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Passion, Pt 1: Jesus’ Last Silence (Luke 23:1-25) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 17:09:59 -0000

April 13, 2025. Passion (Palm) Sunday. Year C. Luke narrates the interrogation of Jesus by Pilate and Herod with a surprising twist. Jesus barely says a mumblin’ word. Jesus’ silence is effective in several ways. First, it reveals his unwillingness to protect himself by means of the state. Second, it exposes certain powers as unworthy of Jesus’ address. And third, it shows Jesus’ embodying the suffering servant “in whose mouth there is no deceit” in contrast with the people’s spurious claims about him. Jesus’ silence is finally a key expression of his passion, for it discloses for us one of the ways he pours himself out in obedience to God. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Lenten Vespers: Fire (Week 5)

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 18:49:44 -0000

The Parable of the Prodigal (Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 14:24:31 -0000

Each person in the parable is “prodigal” (wasteful, extravagant, reckless) in some way. The younger son is wasteful in squandering his inheritance. The older son is reckless with bitterness for both his father and younger brother. The father is extravagant with his love for both sons. But as we identify with the characters, may we not forget the parable’s setting is a household. This particular drama unfolds right at home, calling us to reexamine the posture of our hearts towards those in our own family whom God loves beyond reason or measure.

Lenten Vespers: Wind (Week 4)

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:30:08 -0000

Holding on for Dear Life (Psalm 63:1-8) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 18:05:58 -0000

March 23, 2025. Third Sunday in Lent. Year C. “My soul clings to you,” says the Psalmist (v. 8), though something of the intensity she conveys does get lost in translation. The Hebrew for cling is more of a “following hard” or “keeping fast” even leading to an “overtaking.” We can imagine a person holding on for dear life to an eagle’s wings as it glides over mountaintops and deep canyons. This praying soul gives us an endearing glimpse of a person living in the wilderness who is both deeply satisfied by but also desperate to hold on to God’s love. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Lenten Vespers: Trees (Week 3)

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 18:03:19 -0000

Lenten Vespers: Mountains

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 13:50:37 -0000

Starlight and Firelight (Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 18:24:28 -0000

March 16, 2025. Second Sunday in Lent. Year C. God points Abram to the stars in the sky in order to show him how many his descendants will be, a metaphor for countless progeny. The vast array of starlight represents the promise of God’s provision. Later, as Abram sleeps, he sees the fire pot and torch passing through the cut animals. The firelight represents God who alone “cuts the covenant,” thus ratifying the earlier promise. Let these lights in both the heavens and on the earth be sure signs of God’s trustworthiness for all who may otherwise be haunted by “a terrifying darkness” (see 15:12). Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Lenten Vespers: Water – Submersion

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 20:12:24 -0000

Finding Yourself in the Wilderness (Luke 4:1-13) — Amy Stertz

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 18:00:22 -0000

March 9, 2025. First Sunday in Lent. Year C. Preacher: Rev. Amy Stertz Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

The Glory of Jesus’ Prayer (Luke 9:28-36) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 15:24:13 -0000

March 2, 2025. Transfiguration Sunday. Year C. Luke’s version of the transfiguration details that their purpose for going up on the mountain is to pray. As Jesus prays, he is transformed, his face changes, and his clothes shine. But if Jesus has prayed before without being transfigured, why does he shine in glory this time? It may simply be that Jesus’ time has come to suffer, to be killed, and to be raised. The glory of God shines in and through him as a confirmation that Jesus—the one who gives his life for us—“is the one in whom all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell” (Col. 2:9). Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Youth Reflection: Jamie Smolski

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 18:57:34 -0000

Youth Reflection: Charlie Stowe

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 18:55:55 -0000

The Resurrection of the Dead (1 Corinthians 15:12-20) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 21:45:54 -0000

February 16, 2025. Sixth Sunday after Epiphany. Year C. Paul teaches us about the significance of the resurrection and why believing in the resurrection matters. Our entire faith, Paul exclaims, is staked on whether or not Jesus is raised from the dead. Apart from the resurrection, our faith is futile and we are at the mercy of our sins. But because Jesus is raised, the dead are raised along with him. Our mortal souls are seeds that will die and rise as spiritual bodies. Which means the lives we live now are just the beginning of life with God. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Truth Is… (Luke 4:21-30) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 21:20:43 -0000

February 2, 2025. Fourth Sunday after Epiphany. Year C. Though it begins well, Jesus’s sermon to his hometown congregation falls apart as they become enraged and try to kill him. What did Jesus say that provoked them to such hostility? Only the truth about God’s expansive love. Just as God’s love wasn’t for Israel alone in the time of Elijah, so God’s love will also pour forth far and wide in and through the ministry of Jesus. The truth (and the good news) is, God’s love crashes through all human constructs and limitations. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Luminous Word (Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 16:55:22 -0000

January 26, 2025. Third Sunday after Epiphany. Year C. The lectionary offers two accounts of the power of reading Scripture in worship, one by Ezra at the Water Gate and the other by Jesus at the synagogue in Nazareth. Both readings and their explanations have powerful effects on the congregation. In Nehemiah, the people weep and are moved to care for their neighbors. In Luke, Jesus announces the year of the Lord’s favor has been fulfilled as the people focus intently on him. These accounts highlight how revelatory, consequential, and life-saving it is to hear Scripture proclaimed publicly in worship. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Stirring the Waters (Luke 3:15-22) — Casey Callahan

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 03:01:39 -0000

January 12, 2025. Baptism of the Lord. Year C. Preacher: Rev. Casey Callahan Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

A Glorious Faux Pas (John 2:1-11) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 16:11:38 -0000

January 19, 2025. Second Sunday after Epiphany. Year C. When Jesus’ mother says, “They have no wine,” she’s likely concerned about the host’s reputation. Running out of wine before the party’s over will shame the groom’s family. Still, when the stunned steward later tells the groom, “But you have kept the good wine until now,” that could also be a source of embarrassment. So it may be that Jesus has simply replaced one scandal with another as a foreshadowing of how he will operate. The revelation of Jesus’ glory will not fit societal norms or religious expectations, and it certainly will not always be a comfortable thing. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

A Share in the Gift (Ephesians 1:3-14) — Will Arledge

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 20:58:03 -0000

January 5, 2025. Second Sunday after Christmas. Year C. Preacher: Rev. Will Arledge Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

The Indwelling Word: A Concert of Hymns and Sacred Art Songs — Sully Hart

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 21:04:14 -0000

December 29, 2024. First Sunday after Christmas Day. Year C. On the First Sunday of Christmas, tenor Sully Hart offers a concert of hymns and sacred art songs in place of a sermon. Featuring: Sully Hart, tenor

A Prophetic Christmas Wish (Luke 1:46-55) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 22:18:13 -0000

December 22, 2024. Fourth Sunday of Advent. Year C. Mary stands to sing in the prophetic tradition, her words reminiscent not only of Hannah and Miriam but all of Israel’s prophets, from Moses to Malachi. With her song, she rejoices in God’s ongoing rescue of the lowly, the poor, the hungry, the people called Israel. Her poetry also foreshadows the world-turning mission of the child in her womb. Hers is a vision of what God has done as much as it is a vision of what God will bring to completion…the world finally turned upside down by the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Lord is Near (Philippians 4:4-7) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 22:15:34 -0000

December 15, 2024. Third Sunday of Advent. Year C. Consider the feeling of joy when a loved one is nearing home after a long journey, the excitement of a pregnancy in the ninth month, or even the calming experiences of the dying when they see their loved ones in visions. “The Lord is near…do not be anxious about anything.” Paul helps us see that God’s nearness is cause for rejoicing. His witness echoes Isaiah’s conviction, “I will trust and not be afraid.” As Christmas and the fulfillment of God’s promises draw nearer, the Scriptures compel us to shout for joy that our salvation is at hand. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Tenderness of God (Luke 1:68-79) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 21:01:07 -0000

December 8, 2024. Second Sunday of Advent. Year C. Zechariah clears his throat (after being muted for months by God) in order to sing about God’s tenderness. So taken by the fulfillment of God’s promises in the prophecy of Messiah’s birth, he can only conclude that God’s mercy is finally dawning on a hurting people. Zechariah senses in God’s imminent arrival a warmth and devotion to Israel, a tenderness of deep affection (v. 72). Zechariah also proclaims God’s sensitivity to Israel’s pain and centuries of pent up fear (v. 74). Today we recall and rest in the tenderness of God that leads to peace. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Learning to Trust God (Psalm 25:1-10) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 19:41:32 -0000

December 1, 2024. First Sunday of Advent. Year C. On the first Sunday of Advent we gather in the sanctuary as though it were a classroom, pens and pads ready, eager students looking to God for instruction. The Psalmist repeatedly describes God like a teacher: “Make me to know your ways,” “teach me your paths,” “Lead me in your truth and teach me,” “He instructs sinners,” “He leads the humble…teaches the humble…” Like most of the characters in the Christmas narratives, we still have a lot of wonderful things to learn about who this God is, and what God is capable of doing with and through us. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Christ Above Tribe (Revelation 1:4b-8) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 16:51:16 -0000

November 24, 2024. Reign of Christ. Year B. “And all the tribes of the earth will wail on account of him.” In his vision, John sees “the tribes” lamenting Christ’s arrival. The Son of Man’s coming on the clouds threatens those who have a deeper commitment to their tribe than to the claims of Jesus Christ. The good news on this Reign of Christ Sunday is that Jesus has already “made us a kingdom.” We are priests serving God and one another, unbound by social constructs, and freed from the sins that keep us cordoned off from others. Today we proclaim the waters of baptism run deeper than the blood of tribalism. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

An Encouraging Word (Hebrews 10:11-14, (15-18), 19-25) — Will Arledge

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 20:02:39 -0000

November 17, 2024. Twenty-sixth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. With the conclusion of this passage, Hebrews calls us to provoke one another to good deeds. Interestingly, the Greek word for provoke is paroxysm (to incite, irritate, provoke, encourage…or stir up). The author seems to be playfully calling us to encourage one another in provocative ways, and even irritate each other if necessary, in order to exercise our faith with creativity and ingenuity, resilience and attentiveness. We’re all about to find out how much good can come from staying on each other’s case. Sometimes the good news can be so annoying! Preacher: Rev. Will Arledge

The Widow’s Mite (Mark 12:28-44) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 19:13:45 -0000

November 10, 2024. Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. We see two contrasting stories in this text. One is Jesus’ incisive critique of the deprivation caused by religious and other powerful leaders, whose ultimate aims are to enjoy power and esteem. Here the temple treasury becomes a site of judgment of those who give out of their abundance to wield influence. On the other hand, the widow’s generosity gives us a peek inside the life of a faithful person whose generosity despite her poverty reveals a kind of faith the religious/civic elite will never know. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The God Who Visits Our Grave (John 11:32-44) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 19:46:15 -0000

November 3, 2024. All Saints’ Day (observed). Year B. Several of the texts for All Saints’ Day honor the realities and struggles of grief. In both Isaiah and Revelation, God is seen wiping away our tears. Then in John, not only do Mary, Martha, and their community grieve Lazarus’ death, but Jesus himself is moved to tears as he grieves from the depths of his soul. Implicit in the testimonies of all these saints is that the living God not only takes our grief seriously, but enters our mourning, dwells with us in the darkness of our distress, and comforts us as we grieve. Such is the substance of our hope. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Suffering With Pizzazz (Job 42:1-6,10-17) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 20:00:25 -0000

October 27, 2024. Twenty-third Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Suffering Servants (Isaiah 53:4-12) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 15:53:09 -0000

October 20, 2024. Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Boundless Ministry (Mark 9:38-50) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 17:49:20 -0000

September 29, 2024. Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. When John confronts a rogue exorcist casting out demons without official approval, Jesus redirects his attention to the benefits of welcoming anyone who is doing good ministry. Whereas John wishes to hold a monopoly on ministerial power, Jesus avoids constructing impervious boundaries between his own followers and those outside the confessing community who do justice, love mercy, or offer even the simplest “cup of cold water.” In other words, we Christians do well to partner with anyone whose mission resonates with God’s dream. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Our Global Kinship (Hebrews 1:1-4) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 18:46:58 -0000

October 6, 2024. Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

The Art of Belonging, Pt. 3: Holy Friendships (James 4:1-10) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 18:55:03 -0000

September 22, 2024. Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. With this sermon we come to the heart of the Art of Belonging—friendship, with God and neighbor. James upbraids us for letting worldly desires upend our friendship with God. But he also offers detailed instructions for befriending God through attention, confession, and humility. As we contend with our own age of loneliness, isolation, and division, this sermon invites us to cherish “holy friendships” (scholar Greg Jones) that reflect the rich companionship with God James illustrates. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Art of Belonging, Pt. 2: Beginning With the Benediction (James 3:1-12) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 18:37:16 -0000

September 15, 2024. Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. James compares the tongue to a rudder on a ship, a wildfire, and “a world of iniquity” capable of untold damage. Yet, with this same tongue we have the ability to bless God and neighbor. In Part 2 of the Belonging series, we’ll consider the immense power of words, while wondering what our congregation can set ablaze by gentle speech and generous blessings. What “great exploits” (v. 5), what blessings, what new opportunities lay ahead if the rudder of our congregation’s ship is composed of benedictions? Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Art of Belonging, Pt. 1: Skilled Faith (James 2:14-17) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 20:03:45 -0000

September 8, 2024. Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. James’ faith vs. works conversation often gets snagged in the overgrowth of early Reformation debates that pit works righteousness against cheap grace. But James does not advocate salvation by works. Rather, he endorses a productive faith—or better yet, a skilled faith (“works” in Gk. implies art, industry, skill). This sermon commences a three-sermon series on “The Art of Belonging” by encouraging the habits and practices that produce a skilled, artful faith. Here the invitation is to consider faith as a skill, and belonging as a work of art. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Perfection, Revisited (Psalm 15) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 19:26:18 -0000

September 1, 2024. Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

God’s Wonderful Works (Psalm 111) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 16:04:26 -0000

August 18, 2024. Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. This sermon pins its theme to vs. 2: “Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them.” With this prompt, we will do just that—study, investigate, inquire about God’s wonderful works. But what are God’s wonderful works, and how can we discern them? Even more, how can we delight in them, as the Psalmist says? I’m reminded of when MLK Jr. concluded his sermon at Riverside Church by quoting Isaiah 2:4, “And I don't know about you, I ain't gonna study war no more.” The Psalmist agrees. We’ve more important research to do. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Equipped for Battle (Ephesians 6:10-20) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 15:46:14 -0000

August 25, 2024. Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. With his hands and feet shackled by rulers and authorities, Paul nevertheless assumes the role of a military outfitter, describing the gear we need to stand firm against this present darkness. We do well to let register Paul’s premise that the Christian life conscripts us into a battle of good vs. evil. But like Jesus sending the disciples on mission with no bag or tunics or even shoes, Paul now sends us like sheep into the midst of wolves with no weapon but words…“take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (v. 17). Elder veterans know from experience that’s the only weapon that ever could subdue the powers. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

A Faith Survival Guide (1 Kings 19:4-8) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 14:36:11 -0000

August 11, 2024. Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. Elijah’s ministry has made him a fugitive, running from Jezebel’s threats. In the wilderness, an angel saves his life with meals and encouragement, and Elijah receives strength to go on. But crises of ministry and faith often thrust us into places of wilderness and times of vulnerability where it becomes clear that God is our only means of provision. In times like these we learn that communion is no mere symbol, but a means of survival. Just as God found a way to feed Elijah in his despair, so God prepares a table for everyone the Lord gets into trouble. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Bread of Life (John 6:24-35) — Amy Stertz

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 18:35:45 -0000

August 4, 2024. Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Amy Stertz Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11:1-15) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 18:25:14 -0000

July 28, 2024. Tenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. “David Commits Adultery with Bathsheba,” is a common chapter heading in many translations, but such softened language papers over David’s rape of Bathsheba (the NRSV softens v. 4 to say, “David sent messengers to get her,” but the verb is to take, to snatch, to seize, and is the same verb Samuel uses to warn the Israelites of what kings will take from them). The sermon is entitled “Bathsheba” both to privilege her and to supplant David’s power as the central character in the narrative. This sermon imagines Bathsheba’s perspective, and “listen to the woman” whose life, husband, and womb were taken from her by David’s wickedness. The good news is that Bathsheba still has a name, a new future, and a sacred destiny. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

No Domesticated God (2 Samuel 7:1-14a) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 19:26:29 -0000

July 21, 2024. Ninth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. Speaking through the prophet Nathan, God resists David’s impulse to build a house of cedar for the Lord. Essentially, God responds, “Since when have I ever needed a house?” But here we also see the royal agenda laid bare—is David hoping to domesticate the wildness of God, to “elevate” God’s furnishings to match David’s affluence, to make God more accessible? We all need sacred places we can count on, but it becomes clear that the God who paints with sun and starlight will not be held back by ceilings and walls. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Promise and Peril of Worship (2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 19:24:18 -0000

July 14, 2024. Eighth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. This account of David’s repossessing the Ark of the Covenant is quite moving—or despicable—depending on your perspective. For most in the congregation, this is a service of great celebration and joyful dancing. But for Micah, it’s a grating demonstration of cynical manipulation. We have to wonder whether David’s worship is really genuine, or if he’s using God for political gain. The story shows how we can truly lose ourselves in the joy of worship, but also cautions all who praise God not to bend the gifts of worship back toward ourselves. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

At Home Among Strangers (Mark 6:1-13) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 15:51:17 -0000

July 7, 2024. Seventh Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. Jesus becomes estranged from his own home and village. The phrase “a carpenter, Mary’s son,” is likely a disparaging reference, since a man’s credentials always traced his father’s lineage. Heartbroken but still determined, Jesus sends the disciples into the surrounding villages to preach and heal. Now the estranged must find a new home among strangers. Estrangement and hospitality condition the life of discipleship. Jesus shows us how to live and thrive as such vulnerable missionaries sent to proclaim God’s reign. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Faith That Halted Everything (Mark 5:21-43) — Mackenzie Smith

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 16:23:09 -0000

June 30, 2024. Sixth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Mackenzie Smith (then Pastoral Intern) Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Blinders of Doubt (John 20:19-29) — Libby Bellinger

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 14:05:13 -0000

June 23, 2024. Fifth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Libby Bellinger

What Do We Know? (Mark 4:26-34) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 12:57:44 -0000

June 16, 2024. Fourth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. The kingdom of God is as if someone would scatter seed on the ground and then…take a nap. And the seed would sprout and grow. But day after day, he wouldn’t have the slightest idea how. Verse 28 almost mocks anyone claiming to know God’s mysterious ways: “The earth produces of itself [but you don’t know how], first the stalk [but you don’t know how!], then the head [still don’t know!]…” and so on. The parable undermines our clever attempts to establish outcomes and justify ends. We may rest knowing God will give the growth. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Breaking and Entering (Mark 3:20-35) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 14:01:25 -0000

June 9, 2024. Third Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. With the parable of the strong man, Jesus depicts himself as a thief in the night (see Mt. 24:43) breaking into Satan’s domain, tying him up, and plundering his home. His declaration stuns the scribes, who’d just accused him of being demon-possessed, and positions them as inhabitants of the house to be plundered. The text recalls Isaiah’s prophecy in 49:25 that “the prey of the tyrant be rescued.” As well, it recalls Jesus telling Peter “the gates of hell would not prevail against” the church. It looks like Jesus is ready to make us accomplices to this robbery! Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Defiant Rest (Mark 2:23-3:6) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 19:48:47 -0000

June 2, 2024. Second Sunday after Pentecost. Year B. While the Pharisees are incensed that Jesus would disrupt the Sabbath norms that preserve the status quo (and their hold on power), our contemporary version is inverted—now the status quo is that there is no sabbath. Working class Americans are especially oppressed by this reality. Whereas the social order in Jesus’ time imposed sabbath observance, today’s order makes sabbath observance almost impossible for many. Either way, Jesus defies any social order that would obstruct the fulfilling and restorative purposes of Sabbath observance. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Sent! (Isaiah 6:1-8) — Mack Dennis

Thu, 30 May 2024 14:57:19 -0000

May 26, 2024. Trinity Sunday. Year B. In all the centuries of our tossing and turning over how to describe the Trinity, God remains undefeated at being explained. Nevertheless, Isaiah’s call demonstrates how the one sending, the one sent, and the sending power of God coalesce for Israel’s sake. The same God who sits “high and lofty” also moves toward us to speak, to call, to act, to send. What’s more, there is no one too lost, too common, or too compromised to be drawn into the dynamic life of God. When this God comes for us and calls us, what else can we say but, “Here am I; send me!” Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Filled with New Wine (Acts 2:1-21) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 22 May 2024 13:55:10 -0000

May 19, 2024. Day of Pentecost. Year B. “They are filled with new wine,” say the scoffers. But in spite of their sneering, they’re actually right. The disciples are filled with new wine, and this new wine with all its acidic, pungent, corrosive power has burst through the old wineskin and is now spilling all over the city unabated. A new power has been unleashed in the world whose torrent breaks down all the old barriers and boundaries that keep people separated from God and one another. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Waiting for the Whirlwind (Acts 1:1-11) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 14 May 2024 19:14:34 -0000

May 12, 2024. Sixth Sunday of Easter. Year B. The disciples can’t immediately “be my witnesses in Jerusalem.” First they must wait there to receive power from the Holy Spirit. This interim period between Ascension and Pentecost is a gift to the eleven. They need this time to remember what they’ve seen and heard. They need time to pray, to comprehend, to let the seeds of resurrection grow. Likewise for us, it takes time to grow into the confidence that witnessing to the resurrection requires. Such prayerful waiting will make us all the more receptive to Pentecost when it comes. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

St. Peter the Agitator (Acts 10:44-48) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 06 May 2024 14:06:25 -0000

May 5, 2024. Sixth Sunday of Easter. Year B. Peter has a head start on the others. Having earlier seen a vision of God’s generous welcome, he now understands that “God shows no partiality,” and he applies his revelation by baptizing Gentiles without hesitation. Eventually, James will offer a more deliberative process for such things, but only after Peter has opened wide the door to Gentiles. This sermon will give thanks for the prime movers, the “impulsive” dreamers, the agitators, who embody the Holy Spirit’s shenanigans before most everyone else is ready. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Who’s In Charge Around Here? (Acts 4:1-12) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 14:28:37 -0000

April 21, 2024. Fourth Sunday of Easter. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Lenten Vespers: Teach Us How to Pray, Week 5

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 20:25:00 -0000

The Resurrection of the Body (Luke 24:36b-48) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 18:56:17 -0000

April 14, 2024. Third Sunday of Easter. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

The Nail-Scarred Hand of Forgiveness (John 20:19-31) — Doug Murray

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 15:47:31 -0000

April 7, 2024. Second Sunday of Easter. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Doug Murray Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

From Grief to Joy (John 20:1-20) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 18:22:27 -0000

March 31, 2024. Easter Sunday. Year B. The arc of Mary Magdalene’s story in John 20 carries her from community with others in the reality of death (“we do not know where they laid him”) to grief and loneliness (“as she wept” … “I don’t know where they laid him”) and finally back to community (“[She] went and announced to the disciples”). Mary’s journey mirrors Christ’s own path of fellowship, abandonment, and communion. She also mirrors our path of faith. For we too experience times of both profound loneliness and nourishing communion on the pilgrim way. This Easter we follow Mary to the risen Jesus, and trace the arc of the gospel from loneliness to communion, from death to life, from grief to joy. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Godforsaken (Mark 15:22-39) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 20:11:25 -0000

March 24, 2024. Palm Sunday (Passion emphasis). Year B. Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachtani. To hear Jesus’ visceral last words is to get hit with a Scriptural supernova, where God’s personality, identity, and mission warp and weft at dizzying speed. What horror is this, that the Son of God questions “My God” about his divine abandonment? But as Gregory of Nazianzus wrote, “That which He has not assumed He has not healed; but that which is united to His Godhead is also saved.” It is good news that God knows what it means to be godforsaken. Gregory of Nazianzus, Epistle 101 to Cledonius the Priest Against Apollinarius Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

A Sinner’s Prayer (Psalm 51:1-12) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 19:46:36 -0000

March 17, 2024. Fifth Sunday in Lent. Year B. Psalm 51 zooms in on one lonely, desperate, (and familiar) human being whose heart is in conflict with itself (Faulkner). We hear our own voice in her direct plea to God for mercy and a chance at a new life. We identify with her remorse, and feel more than a little relief to know someone else feels the way we do when we’ve hit bottom. With contrite hearts in common, we also pray with confidence in the God whose love is steadfast and whose mercy is more than generous. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Lenten Vespers: Teach Us How to Pray, Week 4

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 17:53:54 -0000

Antivenin (Numbers 21:4-9) — Mack Dennis

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 17:41:56 -0000

March 10, 2024. Fourth Sunday in Lent. Year B. Sometimes I want to reach back through time and hush the Israelites before they induce God’s wrath with their complaints. “Shush or there will be snakes!” But we get just as fed up with the wilderness as they do. Nevertheless, even in the wilderness—or maybe because there’s no other option the wilderness—God provides a means of healing derived from the precise source of our pain. God provides for his people even in the immediate presence of their enemy. Fretheim commentary Hatchet – the boy is saved through experience with toxic berries, then dreams, memories, one tool Strange title. Strange sermon. Strange text. Strange God. Awful God. Loving God. Saving God. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Lenten Vespers: Teach Us How to Pray, Week 3

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 16:00:46 -0000

Lenten Vespers: Teach Us How to Pray, Week 2

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 19:42:55 -0000

Forty Days of Foolishness (1 Corinthians 1:18-21, 24-25) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 19:19:31 -0000

March 3, 2024. Third Sunday in Lent. Year B. We proceed in Lent by confessing the foolishness of the cross, with help from the distinction Paul makes between foolishness and wisdom. For all of wisdom’s, well, wisdom, Paul seems to have picked up on wisdom’s penchant for trying to provide some means of managing our lives. But Paul declares that even the loftiest wisdom never anticipated a crucified God. The story of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection requires a new category of understanding if we’re to grasp the meaning of the gospel. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Put in Our Place (Mark 8:27-38) — Casey Callahan

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 17:08:24 -0000

February 25, 2024. Second Sunday in Lent. Year B. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Casey Callahan Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Lenten Vespers: Teach Us How to Pray, Week I

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 17:04:12 -0000

The Bow In the Clouds (Genesis 9:8-17) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 15:56:09 -0000

February 18, 2024. First Sunday in Lent. Year B. God’s reaffirmation of the covenant now expands to include all flesh. Even more, we hear God express aloud an earlier sentiment that he would “never again curse the ground because of humankind” (8:21). The rainbow in the clouds will serve as an everlasting sign that God has retired from the business of retribution, and will now assume a posture of grace. From now on, no matter what wickedness human beings contrive, they cannot break God’s everlasting covenant. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Terrifying Beauty of God (Mark 9:2-9) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 20:20:47 -0000

February 11, 2024. Transfiguration Sunday. Year B. As Jesus stood before them transfigured, his clothes dazzling white, Peter didn’t know what to say, “for they were terrified.” Today we stand alongside the disciples in awe of the majesty of God revealed in Jesus’ countenance and presence. The one who became flesh and dwelled among us, and who poured himself out for us in humble service, is also the one whose face shines like the sun, whose voice echoes the sound of many waterfalls, whose tongue is a sword, and whose eyes are like flaming fire (Rev. 1). When we behold this transfigured Jesus, we see none other than the one in whom all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell (Col. 1:19-20). Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Above the Circle of the Earth (Isaiah 40:21-31) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 20:20:45 -0000

February 4, 2024. Fifth Sunday after Epiphany. Year B. Isaiah’s prophecy is both bracing and comforting—bracing in that the earth is fragile and subject to God’s wrath, and comforting in that God renews and strengthens the faint and the powerless, those whom we might refer to today as working to preserve and care for God’s creation against the overwhelming odds. Above the circle of the earth, God rules with power and strength, stretching out the heavens like a tent, and making room for God’s creatures to flourish. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Conscientious Care of Christ’s Body (1 Corinthians 8:1-13) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 20:43:48 -0000

January 28, 2024. Fourth Sunday after Epiphany. Year B. Paul offers counsel about taking the perceptions of others into account for the sake of the Body of Christ. Some church members believed it sacrilegious to eat food sacrificed to idols, though both Jesus and Paul teach us that we’re free from such pietistic reservations. The more overarching revelation here is that Paul is concerned to teach us that knowledge subservient to love. How are we called to care for one another despite similar contemporary issues? The good news is that congregations can be places of deeply conscientious, mutual care grounded in Christ’s selfless love. Note: The Sundays of Epiphany will be devoted to Via Karis themes, in cooperation with the Via Karis Team and in celebration of the January 2024 inauguration of the Karis Parenting initiative. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

You Belong at the Table (Mark 2:13-22) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 20:10:16 -0000

January 21, 2024. Third Sunday after Epiphany. Year B. Very early in his ministry, Jesus became notorious for eating with the wrong kinds of people—tax collectors and sinners. But Jesus wasn’t pandering to them. In a kind of reverse-discriminatory claim, Jesus declares he prefers dining with scoundrels and ne’er-do-wells over others. In any case, Jesus makes the table a central site of the kingdom’s unveiling—a place of belonging, healing, celebration, and new creation. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Word Is Aflame (1 Samuel 3:1-10) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 20:08:03 -0000

January 14, 2024. Second Sunday after Epiphany. Year B. “The word of the Lord was rare in those days,” but God nevertheless spoke to young Samuel, calling him to serve a nation suffering from leaders who had squandered the power of words. What might it mean to say God’s word is still luminous in our own time, in spite of “the humiliation of the word” (Ellul)? Whether we preach in or out of season, whether our age is conditioned to belittle or magnify the power of words, we can live with the assurance that the Word of God is always living, active, radical, and inflammable. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

To Be Baptized in Jesus’ Name (Acts 19:1-7) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 18:29:22 -0000

January 7, 2024. Baptism of the Lord. Year B. Paul finds some disciples in Ephesus who'd been baptized by John for repentance, but they had not heard of the Holy Spirit. When Paul baptizes them in Jesus’ name and lays hands on them, they receive the Spirit. What distinguishes Jesus’ baptism from John’s? Whereas John’s baptism prepared people for the coming new age, to be baptized in Jesus’ name makes us one with the new age that is his life, death, and resurrection. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Encountering the Risen Jesus: Welcoming the Stranger – Bailee Brandon

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:53:38 -0000

Encountering the Risen Jesus: Hard Conversations – Claire Lim

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:52:15 -0000

Encountering the Risen Jesus: On a Journey – Margaret Bourne

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:50:34 -0000

An Unexpected Resurrection (John 11:17-45) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 15:03:56 -0000

March 26, 2023. Fifth Sunday in Lent. Year A. Martha has been to Bible Study and worship every Sunday and doesn’t need convincing about the resurrection. “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day,” she retorts, when Jesus assures her Lazarus will live. But Jesus isn’t referring to the last day. He’s referring to the next few hours. He’s talking about now. By raising a four-day-dead Lazarus, he demonstrates God’s present power over death. Which begs the question: what potential resurrections might we be overlooking in the present as a result of our faithful farsightedness? Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

The Lord Looks on the Heart (1 Samuel 16:1-13) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 18:17:59 -0000

March 19, 2023. Fourth Sunday in Lent. Year A. Samuel’s anointing of David is a crucial guide for how we discern faithful leaders. Initially, David’s candidacy isn’t even considered. The distinguished oldest son appears to be the obvious choice. But Samuel is adamant that outward appearances are immaterial. Rather, “the Lord looks on the heart.” These matters of the heart are applicable to both religious and civic contexts. We hear Jesus’ own convictions about this in his woes to the scribes and Pharisees (Mt. 23:27-28). Leadership matters not only merely for keeping “order,” but for the sake of our survival and flourishing. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

When Worlds Fall Apart (John 12:24-26) — Mark Yaconelli

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 20:47:27 -0000

March 12, 2023. Third Sunday in Lent. Year A. Preacher: Mark Yaconelli Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Born of the Spirit (John 3:1-17) — Mack Dennis

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 12:43:00 -0000

March 5, 2023. Second Sunday in Lent. Year A. What does it mean to be born “from above,” or “of the Spirit”? Nicodemus can’t wrap his mind around the invitation, assuming such a life is impossible. But his incredulity prevents him from understanding Jesus, and blinds him to a more comprehensive understanding of life in the resurrection. As a result, in the end, Nicodemus’s relationship with Jesus ends with his participation in a dignified burial. But those born in the Spirit discover what abundant life really means, as they continue encountering the risen Jesus in their daily lives. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Divine Confirmation (Matthew 4:1-11) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 15:32:54 -0000

February 26, 2023. First Sunday in Lent. Year A. In Luke’s version, Jesus is led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where he is tempted. But in Matthew, the Spirit leads him there to be tempted. The transition recalls God’s purposeful testing of Abraham by the sacrifice of Isaac, and the corresponding question, “Can Abraham be trusted?” Likewise, what does this sequence of tests reveal about Jesus’ trustworthiness? At every turn, Jesus rejects temptation, and confirms not only his faithfulness as the Son of God, but his readiness to face the challenges to come. These tests also beg the question of how congregations discern temptation, and how such encounters shape or reinforce our character in times of trial. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Listen to Him! (Matthew 17:1-9) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 18:47:52 -0000

February 19, 2023. Transfiguration Sunday. Year A. Pairing Matthew’s account with Psalm 2, we hone in on Jesus as the focal point of our full attention. Just as God displaces kings and rulers and peoples in favor of one son in Psalm 2, the Transfiguration confirms Jesus as the person to whom we owe our sole attention and devotion. Where Moses signifies the Law and Elijah the Prophets, God’s voice identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of both. When the dust settles and the glory subsides, Matthew’s conclusion of the account says it all—“they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.” Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Being Consumed (John 6:53-58) — Mack Dennis

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 17:02:20 -0000

February 5, 2023. Fifth Sunday after Epiphany. Year A. For many, the Lord’s Supper (or Communion, Eucharist) signifies a memorial meal--we “proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Cor. 11:26). For others, Communion invites intense examination and self-reflection, or represents being spiritually fed and nourished by Jesus. Each of these ways of imagining communion are meaningful and true. But today we consider what it means to be taken by Jesus in the Lord’s Supper. How does communion reveal not only our consuming, but our being consumed by Christ’s life, death, and resurrection? VISION: Joyful Feast HYMN SUGGESTIONS Hymn of Praise 457 Come and Feast, For All Are Welcomed REGENT SQUARE (lilting, UP) Hymn of Faith 394 Jesus, Thou Joy of Loving Hearts QUEBEC Hymn of Response 458 Let Us Talents and Tongues LINSTEAD (Jamaican, world music) ) OTHER MUSIC ANTHEM Ubi Caritas by Ola Gjielo (chant based, pensive) OFFERTORY TBD Tate COMMUNION MUSIC TBD Tate BENEDICTION Halleluya, We Sing Your Praises (world music, joyful, upbeat) Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

How Jesus Heals (Matthew 4:23-25) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 14:28:09 -0000

January 29, 2023. Fourth Sunday after Epiphany. Year A. We shy away from Jesus’ healing miracles because, for one, we know too many people—ourselves included—who’ve sought healing and been disappointed. Add to the disappointment the smarmy, deceptive practices of certain expressions of prosperity gospel preachers, and Jesus’ miracles become even easier to ignore. Yet, Jesus did and does heal. His name spread far and wide due to his reputation for healing. Today we discover his healing is inseparable from his teaching and preaching. From Matthew’s perspective, the hearing comes before the healing. But the healing does come! Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

What My Heart Says (Psalm 27:1, 4-9) — Mack Dennis

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 19:30:07 -0000

January 22, 2023. Third Sunday after Epiphany. Year A. One thing the Psalmists cannot be accused of is trying to protect God from their feelings. We (and the lectionary, including the careful trimming of today’s Psalm) do an excellent job of taming their voices to sound more palatable, polite, and churchy. Today we will hold up some of the most common themes of prayer in the Psalms, from asking for protection, to revenge against enemies—real matters of the heart (see v.8). Together, we ponder the question, “What’s to prevent our prayers from sounding like the Psalms?” Continued, p. 2… Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

Forgiveness (Matthew 6:9-15) — Mary Caldwell

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 18:21:10 -0000

January 15, 2023. Second Sunday after Epiphany. Year A. Preacher: Rev. Mary Caldwell Worship with First Baptist Church of Asheville. Sundays: Bible study at 10:00 a.m., worship at 11:00 a.m. · 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC · fbca.net

Baptized by Submersion (Matthew 3:13-17) — Mack Dennis

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 18:19:10 -0000

January 8, 2023. Baptism of the Lord. Year A. When Jesus says his baptism is to “fulfill all righteousness,” we can hear him hearkening back to Isaiah’s depiction of righteousness, “to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.” Jesus’ own baptism was not for the forgiveness of sins, but a confirmation of the significance of Jesus’ name and mission—God-with-us. Likewise, though we are immersed in a baptism for the forgiveness of sins, we’re also submerged into lives of solidarity with the blind, the disenfranchised, the prisoner, and the brokenhearted. Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis

A Guided Detour

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 14:29:22 -0000

Christmas Day – We Have Seen His Glory

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 16:46:27 -0000

Christmas Eve – A Sign for You

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 16:43:10 -0000

Joseph Was a Righteous Man

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 14:13:47 -0000

Joy Breaks Through

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 20:26:22 -0000

From Faith to Faith

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 13:58:03 -0000

Pentecost Overflow

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 13:35:06 -0000

Finding a Seat in a Crowded Room

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 13:33:18 -0000

Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 13:30:55 -0000

The Great Rekindling

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 13:29:11 -0000

Jeremiah’s Long Odds Bet

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 13:27:13 -0000

The Shrewd Steward

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 13:25:16 -0000

Blessed Are the Disproportionate

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 13:07:57 -0000

Choose Life

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 13:05:19 -0000

Pleasing Sacrifices

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 12:23:39 -0000

Interpreting the Present Time

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 14:42:21 -0000

What is the Sabbath For?

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 14:36:14 -0000

The One Who Showed Him Mercy

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 17:51:05 -0000

Leaving Vengeance to God

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 17:44:06 -0000

When Good News is Hard to Find

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 17:35:04 -0000

Spiritual Outlaws

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 13:38:50 -0000

Wisdom Raises Her Voice

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 01:17:44 -0000

A Moment of Silence

Tue, 17 May 2022 12:46:58 -0000

Starboard Faith

Tue, 03 May 2022 17:04:59 -0000

Jesus Keeps Showing Up

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 14:07:36 -0000

Remember How He Told Us

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 14:10:08 -0000

Let Him Save Himself

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 04:49:22 -0000

Extravagant Discipleship

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 14:39:07 -0000

Time to Repent

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 13:36:34 -0000

Death (Threats) Could Not Hold Him

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 12:59:40 -0000

Deliverance and Provision

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 12:56:26 -0000

The Jesus We Weren’t Expecting

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 16:02:08 -0000

Love in the Beautiful Community

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 15:39:04 -0000

Meditating Day and Night

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 14:40:56 -0000

Into the Deep

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 14:36:02 -0000

Revelations of Divine Love

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 14:13:59 -0000

A Tent for the Sun

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 15:38:04 -0000

Charisma for the Common Good

Sun, 16 Jan 2022 15:39:08 -0000

Let Good Things Run Wild

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 16:07:54 -0000

An Inheritance of Redemption

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 15:31:42 -0000

Treasuring the Search for Wisdom

Sun, 26 Dec 2021 15:58:50 -0000

The Humanity of God

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 15:56:17 -0000

The Divine Reversal

Sun, 19 Dec 2021 16:05:04 -0000

Tending Toward Home

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 16:02:55 -0000

The Word of God Came to John

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 15:32:39 -0000

The Lesson of the Fig Tree

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 15:54:09 -0000

Do We Say This on Our Own?

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 15:11:29 -0000

A Place for Longing

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:44:24 -0000

Confounding Death

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 15:27:04 -0000

Faith Hiding in Plain Sight

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 11:56:03 -0000

We’ve Come This Far By Faith

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 12:06:35 -0000

What Can I Do For You?

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 13:10:11 -0000

When Integrity Isn’t Enough

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 14:11:38 -0000

How to Enter the Kingdom of God

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 13:14:04 -0000

Beauty

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 12:12:57 -0000

Belonging

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 13:25:52 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, senior pastor, on Sunday, September 12, 2021. Scripture: Revelation 21:1-7

Chasing Nicodemus

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 13:08:35 -0000

A sermon preached by David Blackmon, Coordinating pastor, on Sunday, August 29, 2021. Scripture: John 3:1-21

The Girls in the Reeds

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 13:51:19 -0000

A sermon preached by Anna Carter Florence, guest preacher, on Sunday, August 15, 2021. Scripture: Exodus 1:8-14, 22, 2:1-10

Thoughts and Prayers

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 13:04:42 -0000

A sermon preached by Mary Caldwell, guest preacher, on Sunday, August 8, 2021. Scripture: Ephesians 3:14-21

Draw near to the Lord

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 15:04:35 -0000

A sermon preached by Laura Addis, guest preacher, on Sunday, August 1, 2021. Scripture: Exodus 16:2-4, 9-15

Stones for Bread

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 15:28:56 -0000

A sermon preached by Tim Owings, guest preacher, on Sunday, July 25, 2021. Scripture: Matthew 7:7-12

When the Wine Runs Out

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 13:41:13 -0000

A sermon preached by Tim Owings, guest preacher, on Sunday, July 18, 2021. Scripture: John 2:1-11

Church: Telling and Hearing Truth

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 13:04:20 -0000

A sermon preached by Will Willimon, guest preacher, on Sunday, July 11, 2021. Scripture: Mark 6:14-29

The Founding of the Church

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 13:18:56 -0000

A sermon preached by Will Willimon, guest preacher, on Sunday, July 4, 2021. Scripture: Mark 6:1-13

Following Jesus, Even When We’re Ailing

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 13:15:29 -0000

A sermon preached by Will Willimon, guest preacher, on Sunday, June 27, 2021. Scripture: Mark 5:24-34

Learning to Climb Trees

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 13:46:23 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Anna Carter Florence, guest preacher, on Sunday, June 13, 2021. Scripture: Luke 19:1-10

Tent Dreams

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 15:09:52 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Anna Carter Florence, guest preacher, on Sunday, June 6, 2021. Scripture: Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16

He’s Going Ahead of Us

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 15:53:33 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021. Scripture: Mark 16:1-8

God is Humble Love

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 15:17:11 -0000

God is Forgiving Love

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 15:11:42 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on March 21, 2021. Scripture: Jeremiah 31:31-34

God is Saving Love

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 13:59:39 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on March 14, 2021. Scripture: John 3:14-21

God is Zealous Love

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:41:18 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on March 7, 2021. Scripture: John 2:13-22

God is Crucified Love

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 15:35:24 -0000

A sermon preached by Casey Callahan, Minister with Students, on February 28, 2021. Scripture: Mark 8:31-38

God is Steadfast Love

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 15:09:45 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on February 21, 2021. Scripture: Psalm 25:1-10

A Stunning Confirmation

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 16:58:11 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on Transfiguration Sunday, February 14, 2021. Scripture: Mark 9:2-9

A City Gathered at the Door

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 16:16:54 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on February 7, 2021. Scripture: Mark 1:29-39

Encountering Jesus, Pt. 3: The Astonishing Messiah

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 16:14:19 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on January 31, 2021. Scripture: Mark 1:21-28

Encountering Jesus, Pt. 2: The Compelling Messiah

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 16:11:22 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on January 24, 2021. Scripture: Mark 1:14-20

Encountering Jesus, Pt. 1: The Disarming Messiah

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 14:10:15 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on January 17, 2021. Scripture: John 1:43-51

Baptized Into What?

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 15:07:57 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on January 10, 2021. Scripture: Acts 19:1-7

Christmas Prophesies

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 15:30:00 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on December 27, 2020. Scripture: Luke 2:22-40

Having Walked in Darkness Christmas Eve

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 15:27:06 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2020. Scripture: Luke 2:1-20

Impossible!

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 17:47:09 -0000

A sermon preached by Mack Dennis, pastor, on December 20, 2020. Scripture: Luke 1:26-38

The Advent Generation

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 18:40:13 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on December 13, 2020. Scripture: Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11

Preparing the Way

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 16:57:36 -0000

A sermon preached by Amy Stertz, Minister with Children and Families, on December 6, 2020. Scripture: Mark 1:1-8

An Advent Prayer for the Ages

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 16:39:16 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on November 29, 2020. Scripture: Isaiah 64:1-9

God to the Rescue

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 14:59:33 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on November 22, 2020. Scripture: Matthew 25:31-46

When the Rent Comes Due

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 14:01:00 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on November 15, 2020. Scripture: Matthew 25:14-30

Choose This Day Whom You Will Serve

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 21:40:37 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on November 8, 2020. Scripture: Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25

The Reformation Imaginarium

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 16:17:57 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on October 25, 2020. Scripture: Psalm 1

How Would Jesus Vote?

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 16:13:41 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on October 18, 2020. Scripture: Matthew 22:15-22

Dress the Part

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 20:41:59 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on October 11, 2020. Scripture: Matthew 22:1-14

The Stone That Was Rejected

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 15:38:09 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on October 4, 2020. Scripture: Matthew 21:33-46

Are We Losing Our Minds?

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 19:32:22 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on September 27, 2020. Scripture: Philippians 2:1-13

Outrageous Generosity

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 15:50:33 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on September 20 2020. Scripture: Matthew 20:1-16

Go Forward

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 18:55:54 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on September 13 2020. Scripture: Exodus 14:13-31

The Time is Now

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 19:33:45 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Tommy Bratton, pastor, on September 6 2020. Scripture: Romans 13:8-14

Nowhere to Run

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 14:13:01 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on August 30 2020. Scripture: Exodus 3:1-15

The Renewing of Our Minds

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 19:33:26 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on August 23 2020. Scripture: Romans 12:1-8

Plotting Reconciliation

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 20:20:45 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on August 9, 2020. Scripture: Genesis 45:1-15

The Myth of Scarcity

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 17:22:16 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on August 2, 2020. Scripture: Matthew 14:13-21

The Ivy’s Domain

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 13:59:10 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on July 26, 2020. Scripture: Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52

A Yoke of Ease

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 13:56:25 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on July 5, 2020. Scripture: Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30

The Sacrifice of Isaac

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 14:01:20 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on June 28, 2020. Scripture: Genesis 22:1-14

Hagar in the Desert

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 14:51:44 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on June 21, 2020. Scripture: Genesis 21:8-21

God Blesses Sarah and Abraham

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 14:49:09 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on June 14, 2020. Scripture: Genesis 18:1-3,9-15

In the Beginning

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 19:19:14 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on Trinity Sunday, June 7, 2020. Scripture: Genesis 1:24-2:3

Finding Joy in a Fiery Ordeal

Wed, 27 May 2020 19:25:26 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on the Ascension Sunday, May 24, 2020. Scripture: 1 Peter 4:12-14;5:6-11

Feeling, but not Being, Orphaned

Tue, 19 May 2020 13:12:54 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Guy Sayles, former pastor, on the Sixth Sunday of Eastertide, May 17, 2020. Scripture: John 14:14-21

Faithful Endurance

Wed, 06 May 2020 18:36:49 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on the Fourth Sunday of Eastertide, May 3, 2020. Scripture: 1 Peter 2:18-25

Blessed Are Those Who Have Seen

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 20:55:17 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on the Second Sunday of Eastertide, April 19, 2020. Scripture: John 20:19-31

The Free Gift

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 13:08:54 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on the First Sunday in Lent, March 1, 2020. The Scripture reference is from Romans 5:12-19.

Why Christian? The Difference Jesus Makes

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 20:13:39 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on the Fifth Sunday after Epiphany, February 9, 2020. The Scripture reference is from Matthew 5:3-12.

Why Christian? The Difference the Church Makes

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 20:12:07 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on the Sixth Sunday after Epiphany, February 16, 2020. The Scripture reference is from Matthew 5:13-20.

Why Christian? The Most Important Question of All

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 20:10:13 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on Transfiguration Sunday, February 23, 2020. The Scripture reference is from Matthew 16:13-20; Matthew 17:1-9.

A Prayer for Judgment

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 16:39:16 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Casey Callahan, Minister with Students, on the Fourth Sunday after Epiphany, February 2, 2020. The Scripture reference is from Micah 6:1-8.

The Foolish Message of the Cross

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 18:28:51 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, Pastor, on the Third Sunday after Epiphany, January 26, 2020. The Scripture reference is from 1 Corinthians 1:10-18.

A Brilliant Reason to Sing

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 17:26:10 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on the Second Sunday after Epiphany, January 19, 2020. The Scripture reference is from Psalm 40:1-11.

What is Baptism For?

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 00:49:26 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on Baptism of Our Lord Sunday, January 12, 2020. The Scripture reference is from Isaiah 42:1-9. To view the entire worship service, click here.

Hidden Mystery Revealed

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 21:44:40 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis, pastor, on Epiphany Sunday, January 5, 2020. The Scripture reference is from Ephesians 3:1-12. To view the entire worship service, click here.

Prophets and Dreamers

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 20:35:13 -0000

A sermon preached by Rev. Stephanie McLeskey on Student Day, on the First Sunday of Christmas, December 29, 2019. Stephanie is the chaplain at Mars Hill University and a member of First Baptist Church of Asheville. The Scripture reference is from Matthew 2:13-23. To view the entire worship service, click here.

Wonderstruck

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 20:29:48 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2019. The Scripture reference is from John 1:1-14.

The Christmas Spirit

Tue, 24 Dec 2019 14:47:48 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Love, December 22, 2019. The Scripture reference is from Matthew 1:18-25.

Where Sorrow and Sighing Flee

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 14:38:08 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on the Third Sunday of Advent, December 15, 2019. The Scripture reference is from Isaiah 35:1-10. To view the entire worship service, click here.

Strange Peace

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 19:56:58 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on the Second Sunday of Advent, December 8, 2019. The Scripture reference is from Matthew 3:1-12.

An Unexpected Hour

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 16:03:28 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on the First Sunday of Advent, December 1, 2019. The Scripture reference is from Matthew 24:36-44. To view the entire worship service, click here.

And the People Stood By

Sat, 30 Nov 2019 14:47:12 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on Reign of Christ Sunday, November 24, 2019. The Scripture reference is from Luke 23:33-44.

A Sacred City Rising

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 15:08:49 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on Sunday, November 17, 2019. The Scripture reference is from 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13. To view entire service of worship, visit our website here.

A Righteous…Tax Collector?

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 15:01:41 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on Sunday, November 10, 2019. The Scripture reference is from Luke 19:1-10. To view entire service of worship, click here.

Recovering a Compelling Love – Reformation Sunday

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 15:44:04 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Paul Baxley, Coordinator of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF), on Reformation Sunday, October 27, 2019. The Scripture reference is from Revelation 2:1-7. To view entire service of worship, click here.

An Inspiring Word – Children’s Sabbath

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 11:53:29 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on Children’s Sabbath – Sunday, October 20, 2019. The Scripture reference is from 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5. To view entire service of worship, click here.

Taking Grace for Granted

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 16:30:53 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on Sunday, October 13, 2019. The Scripture reference is from Luke 17:11-19. To view entire service of worship, click here.

True Communion

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 12:28:45 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on World Communion Sunday, October 6, 2019. The Scripture reference is from Colossians 1:1-14. To view entire service of worship, click here.

Where the Great Chasm Closes

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 21:56:41 -0000

A sermon preached by Dr. Mack Dennis on Sunday, September 29, 2019. The Scripture reference is from Luke 16:19-31.