Skip to main content
Downtown Church: Memphis, TN

Downtown Church: Memphis, TN

By Downtown Church

Listen to sermons from Downtown Church in Memphis, TN.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Castbox Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Overcast Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

The Church: God's New Community

Downtown Church: Memphis, TNMar 20, 2013

00:00
38:23
The Audacity to Forgive (Matthew 6:12-15) - Sir Gregory Thornton

The Audacity to Forgive (Matthew 6:12-15) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Central Idea: FORGIVEN PEOPLE FORGIVE.

Because God has forgiven us, we forgive others.


1. The What of Forgiveness


2. The Why of Forgiveness

  • Reason #1: Jesus commands us to.
  • "Forgiveness is not an emotional response but an act of obedience to God."
  • Reason #2: God is OUR Father


3. The How of Forgiveness.

Luke 23:34: "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they do."

Mar 17, 202434:59
Know the Word to Protect the Word (2 Timothy 2:14-18, 22-26) - Julian Russell

Know the Word to Protect the Word (2 Timothy 2:14-18, 22-26) - Julian Russell

The following audio is from Downtown Church, a Kingdom focused, Gospel-centered, multi-ethnic, multi-class ministry in Memphis, TN. This week we continue our series, "Marks of a Disciple." Drawing from 2 Timothy, Dr. Julian Russell explains the importance of knowing God's Word and how to defend it. For more information, visit downtownchurch.com.

Mar 11, 202449:13
Do You Have the Answer Key? (Matthew 4:1-11) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Do You Have the Answer Key? (Matthew 4:1-11) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Main Idea: ​​“God’s word answers life’s key questions.”

  • Question #1 PROVISION: Will God Provide? Verse 3-4
  • Question #2 POWER: Is God Able? Verse 5-7
  • Question #3 Purpose: Who will you Worship? Verse 8-10

Whatever you live for is who and what you worship. What you worship defines your life’s purpose.


Benefits of God’s Word:

1. Teaches Our Identity and Position

2. Teaches Truth and Protects us from Deception.

Feb 25, 202433:46
Stay in your Lane (1 Samuel 13:8-15) - Jason Cook

Stay in your Lane (1 Samuel 13:8-15) - Jason Cook

Guest Speaker Jason Cook from Fellowship Bible Church - Roswell, GA

Feb 18, 202436:17
Needy in Prayer (Psalm 23) - Wayne Denny

Needy in Prayer (Psalm 23) - Wayne Denny

  1. Know who God is
  2. Experience God


1 – Speech about the Lord as Shepherd (vv 1-3)

1a – Speech to the Lord as Shepherd (v4)

2a – Speech to the Lord as Dinner Host (v5)

2 – Speech about the Lord as Host (v6)


1. Know who God is


2. Experience God

  • Pray about who God is
  • Pray to God in need
  • Pray for and with others
Feb 11, 202434:07
We abide in Christ (John 15:1-17) - Michael Davis

We abide in Christ (John 15:1-17) - Michael Davis

Big Idea: We must live as godly people so that know we are disciples of Christ.


1. Dependent upon Christ alone vv 5-8

2. Hide God’s Word In Your Heart vv 9-11

3. Love One Another vv 12-13

Feb 04, 202439:37
Free But Expensive (Luke 9:23, 57-62) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Free But Expensive (Luke 9:23, 57-62) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Bottom Line: Following Jesus is free but requires a complete willingness to suffer for and with Jesus.


1. “Following Jesus requires you to do hard & unpleasant things” V 23

Self Denial means:

  1. Submitting your natural/fleshly demands of the body to God’s Word so that you don’t give in to sin.
  2. Self-denial means removing oneself as the center of existence and recognizing Jesus Christ as one’s new and true center.


Colossians 3:5-8:


2. Following Jesus requires constant self-reflection V 57-58


3. Following Jesus requires focusing on God’s kingdom. V. 59-62

Jan 28, 202434:01
Take a Walk With Jesus (Matthew 4:18-22) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Take a Walk With Jesus (Matthew 4:18-22) - Sir Gregory Thornton

1. Jesus' Pursuit


2. Jesus' Promise

Jesus has a vision of who you are to BE and a purpose that you are to DO.


Follow Jesus:

1. INTENTIONAL in spiritual growth

2. TRUST His will for your life

3. OBEY His commands

4. READ His word to know his character


1 Corinthians 4:14-16 "Therefore I urge you to imitate me. 17 For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus.


3. Jesus' Purpose

Jan 21, 202424:44
Finding our significance in the gospel (Philippians 1:27-30) - Wayne Denny

Finding our significance in the gospel (Philippians 1:27-30) - Wayne Denny

1. Live the gospel

2. Live in unity

3. Live in confidence

Jan 15, 202432:45
Walking in the Light and NOT Perfectionism (1 John 1:5-10) - Michael Davis

Walking in the Light and NOT Perfectionism (1 John 1:5-10) - Michael Davis

Big Idea: When God reveals who He is, it forms our understanding of who we are thus we must walk in truth.

(The truth will set you free)


#1 walk in fellowship with God v.6

#2 walk in the light v.7

#3 walk not in deception v.8

#4 walk in confession v.9

#5 walk in righteousness v.10

Jan 07, 202437:36
God Is (Psalm 46) - Sir Gregory Thornton

God Is (Psalm 46) - Sir Gregory Thornton

MAIN IDEA: God is WHO you need, to handle WHAT you need, WHEN you need it handled.


1. God Is: our REFUGE V. 1-3

2. God Is: Help in Trouble. V. 1


“In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7


3. God Is: PRESENT in our present. V. 4-7

4. God Is: GOD. V. 10

Dec 31, 202337:01
Immanuel: He's Worthy to Be Praised! (Revelation 5:1-10) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Immanuel: He's Worthy to Be Praised! (Revelation 5:1-10) - Sir Gregory Thornton

"He's Worthy to Be Praised!"


“I am the Alpha and the Omega, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8


Main Idea: God deserves our praise for all that He has done & for all that He is.


1. The Lord is worthy of praise because He is the CREATOR.


2. The Lord is worthy of praise because He is the CONQUEROR.

Dec 24, 202334:40
Immanuel: The Promise Fulfilled (Matthew 1:18-25) - Michael Davis

Immanuel: The Promise Fulfilled (Matthew 1:18-25) - Michael Davis

Today's Scripture

Matthew 1:18-25


Big Idea: The Birth of Jesus Christ is the promise fulfilled that God is with us, so we must live with greater confidence in the grace of God.


  1. We must have faith in God’s will.
  2. We must be attentive to the voice of God.
  3. We must worship God for making sovereign provisions.
Dec 18, 202340:59
Immanuel: Waiting in the Dark (Isaiah 9:1-7) - Dr. Michael Rhodes

Immanuel: Waiting in the Dark (Isaiah 9:1-7) - Dr. Michael Rhodes

Today's Scriptures

  • Isaiah 9:1-7
  • Isaiah 8:17
  • John 1:14
  • Matthew 4:13-17
  • 2 Peter 3:9
    1. Receive
    2. Work
    3. Wait
Dec 10, 202334:46
Immanuel: Trusting God's Goodness (Genesis 3:1-15) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Immanuel: Trusting God's Goodness (Genesis 3:1-15) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Main Idea: Trust God because the light of God’s goodness will overcome the darkness of the world.


3 Lies Satan tells:

  1. God is holding back from you.
  2. Sin carries no consequences.
  3. You can be your own God.


1. God Calls. Verse 9


2.God Crushes. Verse 15

Dec 03, 202336:15
God’s Glory is Revealed in His Faithfulness (Exodus 33:7-11 & 40:34-38) - Michael Davis

God’s Glory is Revealed in His Faithfulness (Exodus 33:7-11 & 40:34-38) - Michael Davis

Big Idea: Because God’s Glory is Revealed in His Faithfulness, we must live as a Holy Nation.


Because God’s Glory is Revealed in His Faithfulness, we must deepen our intercession.


Because God’s Glory is Revealed in His Faithfulness, we must depend on His covenant/promise.


Because God’s Glory is Revealed in His Faithfulness, we must desire to dwell in the Temple of God.

Nov 26, 202349:48
The Disaster of Control (Exodus 32:1-14, 30-32) Sir Gregory Thornton

The Disaster of Control (Exodus 32:1-14, 30-32) Sir Gregory Thornton

"an idol is anything more important than God, anything that absorbs your heart and imagination more than God, and anything you seek to give you what only God can give." Tim Keller


Main Idea: The need for control is a lack of faith that displeases God.


1. Our need for control and lack of trust creates false worship. V. 1 - 6

“In the beginning God created man in his own image and we have been trying to return the favor ever since by creating God in our own image.” Voltaire


Jeremiah 17:9 the heart is deceitful above all and desperately sick.


2. False worship ignites God’s wrath V. 7 - 10


3. God’s wrath is appeased by THE INTERCESSOR and REDEEMER V. 11 - 14

“Jesus is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since he always live to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25


“Jesus was raised to life and is interceding on our behalf before the throne." Romans 8:34

Nov 19, 202338:13
Honor God's Presence (Exodus 24:12-18) - Artez Henderson

Honor God's Presence (Exodus 24:12-18) - Artez Henderson

Today's Scripture

Exodus 24:12-18


Main Idea: Because God graciously chose to live near His people, we should honor His presence with our lives.


Point #1 God's old residence

Genesis 1-2


Point #2 God's new residence

Exodus 25-31


Point #3 God's better residence


John 1:14

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.


Colossians 1:19

For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell,


And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:50-51)

Nov 12, 202326:28
Celebrate God who gave you everything! (Exodus 23:10-19) - Wayne Denny

Celebrate God who gave you everything! (Exodus 23:10-19) - Wayne Denny

1. Everything Comes from God


Feast of Unleavened Bread

Deut. 16:3 – "Do not eat it with bread made with yeast, but for seven days eat unleavened bread, the bread of affliction, because you left Egypt in haste—so that all the days of your life you may remember the time of your departure from Egypt."


Feast of Weeks (or Feast of Harvest)

Deut. 16:11-12 – "And rejoice before the LORD your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name—you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, the Levites in your towns, and the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows living among you. Remember that you were slaves in Egypt, and follow carefully these decrees."


Lev. 23:43-44 - "Live in temporary shelters for seven days: All native-born Israelites are to live in such shelters so your descendants will know that I had the Israelites live in temporary shelters when I brought them out of Egypt. I am the LORD your God."


2. Share what you have (it’s not yours!)

Exodus 23: 10-12 – “For six years you are to sow your fields and harvest the crops, but during the seventh year let the land lie unplowed and unused. Then the poor among your people may get food from it, and the wild animals may eat what is left."


3. Everybody has something to give

Exodus 23:15 – “Nobody is to appear before me empty-handed.”


4. Celebrate who gave you everything


Main idea: Celebrate God who gave you everything!

Nov 05, 202329:58
Jealous Love Changes Everything! (Exodus 20:1-17) - Artez Henderson

Jealous Love Changes Everything! (Exodus 20:1-17) - Artez Henderson

Main Idea: God's exclusive love for His people radically changes how we love Him and others


Point #1 God expects us to remember the foundation of his love for us. (vv.1-2)


And God spoke all these words, saying, “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery


Point #2 God expects a primary and unshared love with Him. (vv.3-11)


Point #3 God expects us to show off His love to other people. (vv.12-17)

Oct 29, 202334:12
Defining the Relationship! (Exodus 19:3-6, 10-14, 18-20) - Artez Henderson

Defining the Relationship! (Exodus 19:3-6, 10-14, 18-20) - Artez Henderson

D.T.R. = Defining the Relationship


Big Idea: God's special relationship with his people is a result of His love, which should motivate us to worship and obey him.


Point 1 God initiates our relationship with His redeeming love (v.4)


‘You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself.


Deuteronomy 7:6-8

6 “For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth. 7 It was not because you were more in number than any other people that the Lord set his love on you and chose you, for you were the fewest of all peoples, 8 but it is because the Lord loves you and is keeping the oath that he swore to your fathers, that the Lord has brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the house of slavery, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.


Point #2 God strengthens our relationship through His presence and words (vv.12-20)


Ex. 19:16,18-19

16 On the morning of the third day there were thunders and lightnings and a thick cloud on the mountain and a very loud trumpet blast, so that all the people in the camp trembled. . 18 Now Mount Sinai was wrapped in smoke because the Lord had descended on it in fire. The smoke of it went up like the smoke of a kiln, and the whole mountain trembled greatly. 19 And as the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God answered him in thunder.


Ex. 19:12-13

12 And you shall set limits for the people all around, saying, ‘Take care not to go up into the mountain or touch the edge of it. Whoever touches the mountain shall be put to death. 13 No hand shall touch him, but he shall be stoned or shot;[a] whether beast or man, he shall not live.’ When the trumpet sounds a long blast, they shall come up to the mountain.”


Point #3 God reassures His love for us through His gracious gifts. (vv.24-25)


24 And the Lord said to him, “Go down, and come up bringing Aaron with you. But do not let the priests and the people break through to come up to the Lord, lest he break out against them.” 25 So Moses went down to the people and told them.

Oct 24, 202336:31
Trust God. Don't Test God (Exodus 17:1-7) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Trust God. Don't Test God (Exodus 17:1-7) - Sir Gregory Thornton

God is faithful to keep his promises, save and deliver his people, and prove that he has no rivals.


  • The Problem: God uses trials & tests to DEEPEN and REFINE our trust in Him.
  • The Answer: In the midst of a trial, trust in Jesus the Rock, who will keep you lifted up.


“Israel saw the great power that the Lord used against the Egyptians, so the people feared the Lord, and they believed in the Lord.” (Exodus 14:31)


“Then Moses made Israel set out from the Red Sea, and they went into the wilderness of Shur. They went three days in the wilderness and found no water. When they came to Marah, they could not drink the water of Marah because it was bitter. and the people grumbled against Moses.” (Exodus 15:22)


"The whole congregation of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron. Saying “would that we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the meat pots and ate bread to the full, for you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill us with hunger.” (Exodus 16:2)


“Do not fear, for God has come to test you so that the fear of him may be before you, that you may not sin.” (Exodus 20:20)


“In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. " (1 Peter 1:6-7)


"all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ.” (1 Corinthians 10:4)

Oct 18, 202337:46
The Blood Still Works (Exodus 12:1-8, 12-17) - Sir Gregory Thornton

The Blood Still Works (Exodus 12:1-8, 12-17) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Bottom Line: "God didn't save you to keep you the same but for you to continually grow in holiness."


Exodus 11:4: "About midnight I will go out in the midst of Egypt, and every firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die."


1. Salvation: Salvation is found by seeking refuge in the Blood of Christ.


2. Sanctification: God’s salvation is given for us to pursue Holiness.


1 Corinthians 5:6-7 “Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Therefore cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ our passover lamb has been sacrificed.”


Holiness is doing things that please the Lord and not doing things that displease the Lord.

Oct 10, 202339:57
We Can Oppose Evil (Exodus 7:1-7, 9:13-16) - Wayne Denny

We Can Oppose Evil (Exodus 7:1-7, 9:13-16) - Wayne Denny

1. Evil is real and powerful

“he turned and went into his palace, and did not take even this to heart. And all the Egyptians dug along the Nile to get drinking water because they could not drink the water of the river.” (Exodus 7:23-24)


2. God is real and more powerful

  • Plague 1 –Nile River
  • Plague 2 – Frogs
  • Plague 3 – Gnats
  • Plague 4 – Flies
  • Plague 5 – Animals
  • Plague 6 – Boils
  • Plague 7 – Hail
  • Plague 8 – Locusts
  • Plague 9 – Darkness
  • Plague 10 – Death

3. Follow God – oppose evil out there and in here

“pharoah’s heart was hardened, as the Lord had said”

Exodus (7:22) (8:15) (8:19) (9:12) (9:35)


“After Moses and Aaron left Pharaoh, Moses cried out to the LORD about the frogs he had brought on Pharaoh. And the LORD did what Moses asked.” (Exodus 8:12-13)


“Then Moses left Pharaoh and prayed to the LORD, and the LORD did what Moses asked.” (Exodus 8:30-31)


“Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘See, I have made you like God to Pharoah.’” (Exodus 7:1)


“But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” (Exodus 9:16)


"Those officials of Pharaoh who feared the word of the LORD hurried to bring their slaves and their livestock inside." (Exodus 9:20)


“In that day there will be an altar to the LORD in the heart of Egypt, and a monument to the LORD at its border. 20 It will be a sign and witness to the LORD Almighty in the land of Egypt. When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, he will send them a savior and defender, and he will rescue them. 21 So the LORD will make himself known to the Egyptians, and in that day they will acknowledge the LORD. They will worship with sacrifices and grain offerings; they will make vows to the LORD and keep them. 22 The LORD will strike Egypt with a plague; he will strike them and heal them. They will turn to the LORD, and he will respond to their pleas and heal them.” (Isaiah 19:19-22)


Main idea: With legitimate confidence, we can oppose evil out there and in here.

Oct 01, 202334:59
Be Encouraged (Exodus 5:1-7,22-23 6:1-6) - Artez Henderson

Be Encouraged (Exodus 5:1-7,22-23 6:1-6) - Artez Henderson

Today's Scripture: Exodus 5:1-7, 22-23, 6:1-6


Big Idea:

We can be encouraged in hard seasons because God is too good to forget about His people.


#1 The reality of our seasons of suffering. (5:1-7, 22-23)

Ephesians 6:12

Isaiah 55:8-9


#2 A few reminders during our seasons of suffering. (6:1-6)

“a suffering savor can comfort a suffering people”

-Lisa Fields Jude 3 Project

Sep 24, 202341:16
God's Power, Patience, and Provisions (Exodus 4:1-17) - Artez Henderson

God's Power, Patience, and Provisions (Exodus 4:1-17) - Artez Henderson

Big Idea: God wants His people to confidently obey Him because of His power, patience, and provisions.


I. We should confidently obey God because he’s all powerful. (vv.1-9)


I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.” (Genesis 3:15)


II. We should confidently obey God because he’s graciously patient with us. (vv.10-14a)


III. We should confidently obey God because of his loving provisions for us. (vv.14b-17)

Sep 18, 202335:48
Really God?!?! (Exodus 2:23-3:15) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Really God?!?! (Exodus 2:23-3:15) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Central Idea: What God reveals of Himself strengthens our faith and deepens our hope.


I. God reveals that He is a Holy Creator. (Exodus 3:1-6)

II. God reveals His Immanence. (Exodus 3:7-12)

III. God reveals His Name. (Exodus 3:13-15)

Sep 10, 202336:59
Because They Feared God (Exodus 1:6-12, 15-22 2:1-10) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Because They Feared God (Exodus 1:6-12, 15-22 2:1-10) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Repeated Message: Trust God because He is Faithful to keep his promises, save & deliver His people, & prove that he has no Rivals.


Repeated Question: Whom will you serve? The God of Israel or idols?


1. Misplaced fear is destructive and oppressive.

2. Our fear of God fuels our faithfulness in hard times.

3. God is working even when He is quiet!

Sep 03, 202341:58
Jesus saves us from religious self-deception (Matthew 7:21-29) - Artez Henderson

Jesus saves us from religious self-deception (Matthew 7:21-29) - Artez Henderson

Main Idea: We need Jesus to save us from religious self-deception that leads to eternal destruction


I. Our empty words towards Jesus will ultimately be exposed Matthew 7:21-23


II. Our unwise confidence in self will not stand the test of time Matthew 7:24-27

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?…


No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:35-39)


III. Our humble submission to Jesus’ authority is our only hope of being saved. Matthew 7:28

“A person who claims to be God must belong to one of three categories:

First, if he claims to be God and yet in fact is not, he has to be a madman or a lunatic.Second, if he is neither God nor a lunatic, he has to be a liar, deceiving others by his lie. Third, if he is neither of these, he must be God. You can only choose one of the three possibilities. If you do not believe that he is God, you have to consider him a madman.If you cannot take him for either of the two, you have to take him for a liar.There is no need for us to prove if Jesus of Nazareth is God or not. All we have to do is find out if He is a lunatic or a liar. If He is neither, He must be the Son of God.”

(Watchman Nee, Normal Christian Faith)


And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. (Luke 9:23-24)

Aug 27, 202340:41
There is a War Going On (Matthew 7:13-20) - Sir Gregory Thornton

There is a War Going On (Matthew 7:13-20) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. 13 But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. 14 Now I have come to explain to you what will happen to your people in the future, for the vision concerns a time yet to come.” (Daniel 10:12-14)


Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, the authorities, the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:11-12)


Main Idea: Keep your eyes on Jesus so that you won’t be fooled by false teachers.


1. Jesus warns us not to choose and walk the wrong path. Verse 13-14


2. Jesus warns us against following the wrong teacher. Verse 15-20


3. Jesus invites us to experience The ABUNDANT LIFE today & forever more. John 15

Aug 20, 202333:22
What are you looking for? (Matthew 7:7-12) - Michael Davis

What are you looking for? (Matthew 7:7-12) - Michael Davis

Big Idea: God has authority over all truth, so we must pray for wisdom from God.

1. We Must Pray For A Knowledge Of Truth vv.7-8

2. We Must Learn The Nature and Character Of Our God vv.9-11

3. We Must Pray For Our Neighbors Welfare v.12

Aug 13, 202340:36
DC: You have been set free! (Galatians 5:1-6, 13-15) - Richard Rieves

DC: You have been set free! (Galatians 5:1-6, 13-15) - Richard Rieves

“But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another (5:15).”


“…when I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, ‘If you, though a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews (2:14)?”


“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (Jn 3:16).”


I. The gospel of works fuels division precisely because it is rooted in works not faith.

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder…But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire (Mt 5:21-22).”


“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart (Mt. 5:27-28).”


“…by works of the law no one will be justified (Gal. 2:16).”


“For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, ‘Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.’ Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law… (3:10-11).”


“What then has become of your blessedness (joy)?”


II. The gospel fuels love for it is based on grace, not the law.

“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons (Galatians 4:4-5).”


“Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you (5:2).”


III.The gospel’s demand is faith leading to love.

“For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness (5).”


“Then they said to him, ’What must we do, to be doing the works of God?’ Jesus answered them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent (Jn 6:28-29).’”


“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:36).”

Aug 06, 202343:47
Check yourself before you wreck someone else! (Matthew 7:1-6) - Richard Rieves

Check yourself before you wreck someone else! (Matthew 7:1-6) - Richard Rieves

I. Jesus is not commanding us to not make judgments, instead He is directing us how to do so redemptively…in a way that actually helps others.


II. The first step to becoming some good to others is to open your eyes to your own self.


III. The second step is to lovingly, humbly help others with their specks.

Jul 30, 202331:04
The Trouble of Treasure (Matthew 6:19-34)-Sir Gregory Thornton

The Trouble of Treasure (Matthew 6:19-34)-Sir Gregory Thornton

Main Idea: Seek God! Because God is TROUBLE for your trouble and promises to meet your every need.


1. Seek God! Because seeking anything else is wasting your life. Vs. 19-24


2. Seek God! Because God is capable, caring, and concerned to meet your needs. Vs. 25-30


4 Reasons not to worry:

  1. Life is more than food and clothing Vs. 25
  2. God takes care of the birds. Vs. 26
  3. Worry doesn't do good but can harm. Vs. 27
  4. God knows what you need. Vs. 32


3. Seek God! Because God is TROUBLE for your trouble. Vs. 31-34

Jul 23, 202335:10
Praying the Kingdom In (Matthew 6:5-18) - Richard Rieves

Praying the Kingdom In (Matthew 6:5-18) - Richard Rieves

“You are the light of the world…let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven (14,16).”


I. Kingdom praying is first about God, not us.

"Our Father who art in heaven. Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven (9-10).”


“For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me (Jn 6:38).”


“Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done (Luke 22:42).”


II. Kingdom praying is not about us, but God is.

“Give us this day our daily bread…”


“Forgive us our debts as we have forgiven our debtors…For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses (14-15).”


"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil (13)."


III. Kingdom praying is centered upon God and us.

Jul 16, 202334:17
Living from our (Heavenly) Father’s Approval (Matthew 6:1-4) - Artez Henderson

Living from our (Heavenly) Father’s Approval (Matthew 6:1-4) - Artez Henderson

Main Idea: Christ warns his followers against living for the approval of people. Instead, he calls us to live from the approval of our Heavenly Father.


#1 Living from The Father’s approval protects us against people pleasing. (v.1)

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 6:1)


#2 Living from The Father’s approval makes us humbles givers.

And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. (Genesis 12:2)


The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good. (Proverbs 15:3)


#3 Living from The Father’s approval reminds us that He alone meets all of our needs.

Jul 09, 202332:16
When Loving You Hurts Me! (Matthew 5:43-48) - Sir Gregory Thornton

When Loving You Hurts Me! (Matthew 5:43-48) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Main Idea: God calls and empowers us to love those who are impossible to love.


1. LOVE & PRAY for your enemies. V. 43-44

“Many have learned how to offer the other cheek but do not know how to love him by whom they were struck.” Augustine of Hippo


Romans 5:10 “We too were enemies of God, but we were reconciled to God through the death of Jesus Christ.”


2. LOVE & PRAY for your enemies because this is what God’s children do. V. 45


3. LOVE & PRAY for your enemies because God has called you to a higher standard as his children V. 46-48

Jul 07, 202336:33
Called to Greater Righteousness (Matthew 5:17-32) - Dr. Wayne Denny

Called to Greater Righteousness (Matthew 5:17-32) - Dr. Wayne Denny

I. Jesus invites us into a story where our work has meaning and Jesus accomplishes what we can't.


All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet (Mat 1:22)

And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet (Mat 2:15)

Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled (Mat 2:17)

So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets (Mat 2:23)

to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah (Mat 4:14)


II. Jesus brings us into His rest because He addresses the heart


III. Jesus shows us how to pursue righteousness

Jun 25, 202334:43
Ordinary Influencers (Matthew 5:13-16) - Artez Henderson

Ordinary Influencers (Matthew 5:13-16) - Artez Henderson

“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet.

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:13-16)


Main idea: God is glorified when we as His Church are being a blessing to the world


I. Who has Jesus called His Church to be? vv.13-16


II. How does Jesus want His Church to live? vv.13-15


III. Why does Jesus want His Church to live like this? v.16

Jun 20, 202337:54
The Blessed Life Isn’t What You Think (Matthew 5:1-12) - Sir Gregory Thornton

The Blessed Life Isn’t What You Think (Matthew 5:1-12) - Sir Gregory Thornton

“He went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. So his fame spread throughout all Syria, and they brought him all the sick, those afflicted with various diseases and pains, those oppressed by demons, epileptics, and paralytics, and he healed them. And great crowds followed him from Galilee and the Decapolis, and from Jerusalem to Judea, and from beyond the Jordan." (Matthew 4:23-25)


Main Idea: God blesses those who realize their great need for Him. God blesses NEEDY people.

Main Application: So, BE needy and seek God’s grace in every area of your life.


1. Jesus is focused on who you are (BEcoming), not just what you are (DOing)


“God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by Grace, you have been saved - and raised us up with him and he seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ.” (Ephesians 2:4-7)


2. Be needy because that is who God will bless.


3. God’s kingdom is here, but we’re still waiting on it, but it will come.

Jun 12, 202333:30
Who is your real King? (Matthew 4:17, 23-25) - Richard Rieves

Who is your real King? (Matthew 4:17, 23-25) - Richard Rieves

“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” (Matthew 4:17)


“And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom.” (Matthew 4:23)


The gospel of the kingdom is the good news that Jesus, the good King has arrived, and his kingdom rule is marked by healing, so leave all other kings and come under the rule of King Jesus.


“I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.” (Gen 3:15)


“I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” (Gen 12:2-3)


“Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.” (2 Samuel 7:16)


“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 3:2)


I. The Gospel of the kingdom is the good news that your long awaited King has arrived.


“In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as Sons through Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 1:4b-5)


Because our King conquered sin and death and fully, completely and truly reconciled us to God, there is never a moment He is not loving us.


II. The gospel of the kingdom is for those who see their need for King Jesus.


“So his fame spread throughout all Syria, and they brought him all the sick, those afflicted with various diseases and pains, those oppressed by demons, those having seizures, and paralytics, and he healed them.” (Matthew 4:24)


“And great crowds followed him from Galilee and the Decapolis, and from Jerusalem and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan.” (Matthew 4:25)


“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)


richard@downtownchurch.com


III. The gospel of the kingdom is that Jesus is a King worth living and waiting for.

Jun 04, 202340:42
Paul's Intentional Detour (Romans 15:23-33) - Wayne Denny

Paul's Intentional Detour (Romans 15:23-33) - Wayne Denny

1. Paul's Focus - Romans 15:23-24

2. Paul's Intentional Detour - Romans 15:25-29

3. Paul's Confidence - Romans15:30-33

May 29, 202333:54
For His Glory (John 21:18-25) - Sir Gregory Thornton

For His Glory (John 21:18-25) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Main Idea: Live a life and die a death that gives glory to God.


1. God has revealed enough of His glory for you to trust and worship Him—verse 25.


"Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and by believing you may have life in his name.” John 20:30


21:25 "There are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.”


2. Christ's love frees us to give all glory to God —verses 18-19.


3. Glorify God by focusing on YOUR purpose and mission—verses 20-22.


Hebrews 12:2 “Lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the author and perfecter our faith."

May 25, 202333:12
Living In The City - Take One #50

Living In The City - Take One #50

In this episode, the Downtown Church Staff share their raw thoughts about the joys and pains of living in the City of Memphis.

May 23, 202332:19
Let There Be Light (John 21:15-19) - Michael Davis

Let There Be Light (John 21:15-19) - Michael Davis

Big Idea: the redemptive work of Christ empowers us to build up the body of Christ.


1. Proclaiming the Love of God


2. Pastoring one another in the Love of God


3. Press into our Vulnerabilities

May 14, 202338:55
Do you have life in His name? (John 20:30-31)-Richard Rieves

Do you have life in His name? (John 20:30-31)-Richard Rieves

“In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God (Jn. 1:1).”


Main Idea: John has recorded the works of Jesus, that we might have life in Jesus. Hope & Life have a name and that name is Jesus.


I. Do you believe Jesus to be your hope, your Messiah?


1. Jesus, at the wedding feast in Cana, turns 230 gallons of water into the best wine.

2. Jesus heals the official’s son while being in a completely different town from the boy.

3. Jesus healed the man who had no use of his legs for 38 years at the pool of Bethesda.

4. Jesus feeds 5,000 men, and no telling how many women and children with 5 barley loaves and two fish and has 12 baskets full of leftovers.

5. Jesus appears to his disciples walking on the sea of Galilee.

6. He heals the man born blind.

7. Jesus raised Lazarus to life with the power of these words, “Lazarus, come out.”


II. It is foolish to not believe Jesus as your Messiah.


III. Are you experiencing the life of Jesus?

May 02, 202341:02
A Study on Doubt (John 20:24-29) - Sir Gregory Thornton

A Study on Doubt (John 20:24-29) - Sir Gregory Thornton

Main Idea: God is kind enough to meet us in our doubt and lead us into faith.


1. The Reality of Doubt: Doubt is normal and offensive. v.24-26


2. The Resolver of Doubt: Peace and Touch 26-27


John 14:1, Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.

verse 27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither be afraid.”


Romans 5:1 “Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”


Isaiah 53 “he was pierced for our transgression, crushed for our iniquities, upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace.


3. The Response to Doubt: Believe 28-29

Apr 24, 202336:56
Be Encouraged..He's still with us! (John 20:19-23) - Artez Henderson

Be Encouraged..He's still with us! (John 20:19-23) - Artez Henderson

Main Idea: Our encouragement is to be found in Christ’s peace, promises, and purpose for our lives.


#1 Our encouragement is to be found in the peace that Christ offers (vv.19-21)

On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” (John 20:19-21)


#2 Our encouragement is to be found in the promises of Christ (vv.21b-22)

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. (John 20:21-22)


“As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 


And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” (Acts 1:4-5)


#3 Our encouragement is to be found in Christ’s purpose for our lives (v.23)

If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.” (John 20:23)


And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, “Why does this man speak like that? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic— “I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home.” (Mark 2:5-7,10-11)

Apr 16, 202331:32
How Durable is your Faith? (John 20:1-18) - Richard Rieves

How Durable is your Faith? (John 20:1-18) - Richard Rieves

Today's Scripture: John 20:1-18


The resurrection tells us: God has NOT left you, nor FORSAKEN you! You can give your life to Him for He IS true life!

I. The resurrected Jesus overwhelms and dispels our unbelief.


“How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?.” (Psalm 13:1)


“Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me…Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.” (I Corinthians 15:1-8, 12-14)


Jesus has the last word!


II. The resurrected Jesus is the only hope that can truly overwhelm and dispel our unbelief.

Faith is not a one-time event, but an ongoing struggle.


“’Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.’ And he who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’” (Revelation 21:3-5)


III. The resurrected Jesus is a Savior you can know.

“Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.” (John 16:7)


“I have seen the Lord.” (John 20:18)

I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:

“Death is swallowed up in victory.”
“O death, where is your victory?

O death, where is your sting?”

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

(1 Corinthians 15:50-58)

Apr 11, 202340:49
The Light at the End of the Tunnel (John 19:38-42)-Sir Gregory Thornton

The Light at the End of the Tunnel (John 19:38-42)-Sir Gregory Thornton

Main Idea: God uses painful moments to help us die to our temporary kingdoms so we may LIVE fully for His Kingdom.

Today's Scripture (John 19:38-42)


1. The darkness of this world cannot & will not overcome the Light of God.

In the beginning, was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:1-5


2. No matter what happens, Jesus is still king and his kingdom is coming.

Verse 38, “After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body.”


  • Matthew: Joseph was a rich man who was a disciple of Jesus.
  • Mark: Joseph was a respected member of the council, who was looking for the kingdom of God.
  • Luke: Joseph, a member of the (Sanhedrin) council, a good and righteous man who did not consent to their decision and action; and he was looking for the
  • kingdom of God.
  • John: Joseph was a disciple of Jesus but in secret for fear of the Jews.


3. Jesus’ burial is the assurance that he has conquered death and is able to give everlasting life. v41-42

John 12:24 “unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone: but if it dies, it bears much fruit.”


I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away and the sea was no more. I saw the holy city, coming down out of heaven from God. I heard a loud voice saying Behold the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them and they will be his people. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain… the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. Revelations 21:1-4,23

Apr 02, 202340:26