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Heritage Baptist Church

Heritage Baptist Church

By Heritage Baptist Church

Welcome to the podcast of Heritage Baptist Church in Lynchburg, VA. This podcast includes teaching from our senior pastor, Dr. Nathan Smith.
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Lunch with Nathan: Ruth 1:6

Heritage Baptist ChurchApr 29, 2020

00:00
08:17
The Weapon of our Warfare // 2 Tim 3:10-17

The Weapon of our Warfare // 2 Tim 3:10-17

The Word of God is the foundation of our faith the means for understanding life and the world around us. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks at the importance of the Word in living for Christ.

Apr 22, 202440:47
Defining Sin in the Last Days // 2 Tim 3:1-9

Defining Sin in the Last Days // 2 Tim 3:1-9

2 Timothy 3 begins with a list of vices that characterize people in the last days. What are the last days and why is it importaqnt to define what sin is in our world today? Pastor Nathan unpacks the first part of chapter 3 with an examination of ourselves as well as an examination of false teachers and those far from God.

Apr 15, 202441:46
Union & Communion with Christ // 2 Tim 2:14-24

Union & Communion with Christ // 2 Tim 2:14-24

Throughout the Bible we see that we are secured in salvation by grace through faith in the person and work of Christ - yet so many struggle to feel close to Christ. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan unpacks the difference between our union with Jesus and our communion with him. What is the difference and how does this relate to the instructions given to Timothy? #bible #jesus #church #christianity #salvation #grace #security #eternallife

Apr 08, 202438:37
In Christ: United in His Life

In Christ: United in His Life

The Bible speaks of those who trust in Jesus as being "in Christ" but what does this mean? In this two-part teaching, Pastor Nathan unpacks theprofound and life-changing truth about a believers union with Jesus. In this second part, Nathan looks at dozens of scriptures to see how we are united in the resurrection of Jesus.

Apr 02, 202435:40
In Christ: United in His Death

In Christ: United in His Death

The Bible speaks of those who trust in Jesus as being "in Christ" but what does this mean? In this two-part teaching, Pastor Nathan unpacks theprofound and life-changing truth about a believers union with Jesus. In this first part, Nathan looks at the death of Christ and how followers of Christ share in the death of Jesus on the cross.

Apr 02, 202438:54
Illustrations of the Christian Life // 2 Tim 2:1-7

Illustrations of the Christian Life // 2 Tim 2:1-7

In 2 Timothy, Paul described the Christian life as a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer. What do these images have to do with following Christ? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan considers each of the these and challenges all believers to count the cost of following Jesus.

Mar 18, 202443:28
Jesus has ultimate authority // Mark 4-5

Jesus has ultimate authority // Mark 4-5

In Matthew 28 Jesus says that "all authority...has been given to me" - but what does that look like? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks at the authority Jesus has over the seen, the unseen, and our redemption as he walks through the story of Jesus in the storm and his interaction with the demon posssessed man.

Mar 11, 202438:59
Why do you go to church? // Hebrews 10:19-25

Why do you go to church? // Hebrews 10:19-25

Have you every thought about why you attend church? Is church attendance a means of gaining God's favor, an experience for us as individuals, or is it something far more beautiful and profound. In this teaching, Dr. David Croteau from Columbia International University looks at the admonitions of Hebrews chapter 10 so that we better understand God's desire for the people of God.

Mar 04, 202444:02
A Community Shaped by the Gospel // Rom 12

A Community Shaped by the Gospel // Rom 12

The church is made up of people who have been redeemed by Christ, yet so often we find division and bitterness among them. Why do we fight against one another and how does the Gospel transform the way we approach our brothers and sisters in Christ. In this message, Pastor Mike looks to Romans 12 to help us understand how we allow the Gospel to influence our church communities. #jesus #bible #church #forgiveness #grace #hypocrites #anger #gossip #churchhurt

Feb 26, 202434:55
Critical countercultural instructions for the serious Christ follower // 2 Tim 1:8-12

Critical countercultural instructions for the serious Christ follower // 2 Tim 1:8-12

To live in obedience to Jesus is to live in a countercultural way. To follow Jesus is to follow the way of suffering and rejection, yet many who claim Christ are confused by this idea. How can we live unashamed lives, grounded in the truth of Jesus Christ?

Feb 19, 202440:18
When the church goes off course // 1 Corinthians

When the church goes off course // 1 Corinthians

Dr. Gnanakan provides a look at the church of Corinth and the elements that caused this early church mover way off course.

Feb 12, 202434:35
Enduring the Christian Life // 2 Tim 1:1-7

Enduring the Christian Life // 2 Tim 1:1-7

In this introduction to the book of 2 Timothy, Pastor Nathan looks at the themes of Paul's letter to a discouraged and exhausted elder.

Feb 05, 202438:57
Him we Proclaim // Colossians 1

Him we Proclaim // Colossians 1

The book of Colossians was written to a people wrestling with fear over evil spirits and human philosophies. Into this fear, Paul reminds believers of the completed work of Christ and their transference from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light.

Jan 29, 202438:17
We show our identity by our conduct // Titus 3

We show our identity by our conduct // Titus 3

How does being redeemed by Jesus change our lives? What is our guiding truth and instruction for dealing with governing authorities, relationships, and other issues in life? In Titus 3, the Apostle Paul provides crucial instructions for those who follow Christ. This is especially challenging in a world that celebrates rebellion and revolution. What role, if any, do our rights play in the living a life like Jesus?#gospel #church #rights #government #submission #authority #jesus #christianity

Jan 22, 202439:22
A healthy church teaches and adorns sounds doctrine // Titus 2

A healthy church teaches and adorns sounds doctrine // Titus 2

Do you beautify the gospel with your life or do you make the gospel of Christ unappealing to those around you? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks at Paul's description of the gospel in Titus 2 and how it's impact transforms the lives of those submitted to it.

Jan 15, 202444:52
Godly leadership is essential to a healthy church // Titus 1

Godly leadership is essential to a healthy church // Titus 1

What makes a godly leader? Is it good communication and a dynamic personality or is there something more? Pastor Nathan provides an overview of the book of Titus and a rundown of what makes a godly leader so important to the local church.

Jan 08, 202442:14
Lessons and Warnings for the New Year // 1 Cor 10:1-13

Lessons and Warnings for the New Year // 1 Cor 10:1-13

In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul writes to instruct the church by pointing to the history of Israel. In this teaching, Pastor Kent walks through the instructions and warnings of 1 Corinthians 10 as well as the narratives that help illuminate the text even more.

Jan 02, 202445:39
Why Christmas Matters // Luke 2

Why Christmas Matters // Luke 2

Why is the virgin birth so crucial to the story of Jesus? Why is the incarnation of Jesus so important to our salvation? In this teaching pastor Nathan helps us to see the crucial reason we celebrate the birth of Jesus during Christmas.

Jan 02, 202435:17
God Becomes a Man // Luke 2

God Becomes a Man // Luke 2

The incarnation of Jesus Christ is the greatest miracle recorded in the scriptures. The perfect, holy, omnipotent God of all creation taking the form of man is too glorious for us to fully comprehend. It is this amazing reality that we celebrate at Christmas and it is worth the time to unpack what the incarnation means for us today.

Jan 02, 202439:52
The Weaving of History // Luke 1:67-79

The Weaving of History // Luke 1:67-79

The story of Zechariah from Luke 1 provides a glimpse into the redemptive history of Israel. Why was the promise of a child to Zechariah a means of worship and celebration? As we consider the Christmas story, let us consider the historic tapestry from which Jesus came. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan Smith highlights a curious message of a God who loves to come near.

Dec 11, 202339:01
God's Transcendent Majesty (Conrad Mbewe) // Psalm 8

God's Transcendent Majesty (Conrad Mbewe) // Psalm 8

Dr. Conrad Mbewe shares about the glories of God as seen in Psalm 8. Who is this God who reigns above the heavens? What is our relation to his transcendence and majesty?

Dec 04, 202336:08
A Godward affection is a worthwhile endeavor // Jeremiah 29:1-14

A Godward affection is a worthwhile endeavor // Jeremiah 29:1-14

Jeremiah 29:11 is a popular verse but do you know the full context? Pastor Jeff Scott looks at this passage in order that we may better understand what this passage means for us today.

Nov 27, 202342:15
A Church on Mission // 1 Tim 6:20

A Church on Mission // 1 Tim 6:20

What does a church on mission look like? What are we supposed to be doing as united followers of Jesus? Pastor Nathan walks through the mission statement of HBC to help paint a picture of the church's purpose in the world. Heritage Baptist Church Mission Statement: "We exist to make disciples of Jesus Christ by living the gospel life among the nations."

Nov 20, 202341:16
A Church Unleashed // 1 Tim 6:15-16

A Church Unleashed // 1 Tim 6:15-16

The central theme to all of scripture is the glory of God. How is this the case? What about Jesus? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan examines the glory of God through the redemption narrative and what it means for us today. What does it mean for us to bear God's glory? How can this truth unleash the church for the exaltation of God among the nations?

Nov 13, 202338:18
God's purpose for the nations // 1 Timothy 6:15-16

God's purpose for the nations // 1 Timothy 6:15-16

God has a purpose and desire to redeem people from all nations, tribes, and tongues. This is not a minor theme or the Bible but one that is found throughout all of the scriptures. Our God is too glorious to be limited to one nation - He desires them all. What does this mean for the world and for us today?

Nov 06, 202344:30
Fight the Good Fight // 1 Timothy 6:1-16

Fight the Good Fight // 1 Timothy 6:1-16

Did you know that Satan is a key character in the book of Timothy? The everyday means of following Christ, establishing elders, and other actions of the church are acts of spiritual warfare. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan points to the realities of this fight and then to the One who is able to empower us within it.

#spiritualwarfare #angels #demons #Satan #devil #hope #Bible #Jesus

Oct 30, 202340:11
The Blessing of Submission // Psalm 40:1-10

The Blessing of Submission // Psalm 40:1-10

What comes to mind when you think "submission." Have you ever considered submission as a means to joy and comfort? In this teaching, Pastor Kent walks through Psalm 40 in order to see how David interacted with the Lord. It's inside of this Psalm that we see the peace that can be found in person submission to God and also towards one another (especially inside the family).


Oct 23, 202340:18
Godliness with contentment is great gain // 1 Tim 6:2-10

Godliness with contentment is great gain // 1 Tim 6:2-10

Contentment is the means by which we can find rest and peace in this world, but what is contentment? How do we live content lives? What are the inherent dangers of money, wealth, and the accumulation of stuff? In this teaching, Nathan unpacks what it means to be content and how our eternal perspective helps provide power of anxiety, fear, and covetousness.


#wealth #money #hope #anxiety #fear #jesus #bible #godliness

Oct 16, 202342:38
Are you teachable or are you a fool? // 1 Tim 6:1-10

Are you teachable or are you a fool? // 1 Tim 6:1-10

Are you increasing in wisdom or foolishness? What does it mean to be a fool and how does that relate to our understanding about authority? Pastor Nathan looks at 1 Timothy 6 in order that we would understand the truth about employment, pride, and what to look for in a false teacher. Nathan also takes time to teach about slavery in the Bible and how we should look at it in light of the evils of slavery seen in our country and around the world.

Oct 09, 202338:45
Practical Instructions for Caring for the Church Community // 1 Timothy 5:1-16

Practical Instructions for Caring for the Church Community // 1 Timothy 5:1-16

This week Pastor Nathan begins 1 Timothy 5 by looking at some of the practical outworkings of church life, including the care of widows in the church. What are the responsibilities and qualifications of a widow as described by Paul, and how is the community supposed to help them?

Oct 02, 202342:41
Practical Instructions for Elders // 1 Tim 5:17-25

Practical Instructions for Elders // 1 Tim 5:17-25

Pastor Nathan continues our study through 1 Timothy with a look at the practical instructions for elders in the church. What does it mean to honor an elder? How should we deal with accusations against elders? #church #bible #elders #governance #leadership

Oct 02, 202340:04
Understanding the New Testament // Dr. David Croteau
Sep 18, 202337:07
The Pursuit of Godliness // 1 Tim 4:6-16

The Pursuit of Godliness // 1 Tim 4:6-16

What is godliness? Why is it important to the Christian life? How is it connected to our salvation? Pastor Nathan continues our study in the book of 1 Timothy with a look at the elements of the godly life and why is it crucial for us to pursue godliness in all we do.

Sep 11, 202335:13
The Teaching of Demons // 1 Tim 4:1-4

The Teaching of Demons // 1 Tim 4:1-4

At the end of chapter 3, Paul expresses what the church declares to be true in regards to Jesus Christ - yet moments later he warns of the demonic entities that desire to pervert this important truth. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan exposes the truth about the normal work of demons that is far more insidious than Hollywood movies would make you think.


#demons #hell #spirits #spiritualwarfare #falseteaching #Bible #Jesus #power

Aug 28, 202340:06
Being a Confessional Church // 1 Tim 3:14-16

Being a Confessional Church // 1 Tim 3:14-16

1 Tim 3:16 provides a powerful statement about the church's doctrine on Jesus, yet so many today seem to think doctrine is a bad word. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks at the 6 statements written by Paul that are helpful for defining the foundational truths of the church. #church #bible #jesus #doctrine #doctrineofchrist #incarnation

Aug 21, 202339:22
Is the Church Precious to You? // 1 Tim 3:14-15

Is the Church Precious to You? // 1 Tim 3:14-15

The church is made of people who have been redeemed by Christ and set apart for living the gospel life among the nations, but does our life reflect that reality? Is the body of Christ really important to us or just something we come to each week? Do we seek to guard this precious gift or take it for granted?


#church #Jesus #Bible #hope #bodyofChrist #elders #deacons

Aug 14, 202344:08
The Role of Deacons // 1 Tim 3:8-13

The Role of Deacons // 1 Tim 3:8-13

What is the role of a deacon? Who can serve as a deacon? What is the difference between an elder and a deacon? There are many questions about the role of deacons in the #church. Pastor Nathan walks through the qualifications of the deacons in 1 Timothy 3 to help illuminate Paul's thoughts on this important role in the church. He also takes time to discuss the controversial topic of women serving as deacons. Does the text allow for this or is this only for men?


#leadership #elders #women #men #deacon

Aug 07, 202334:28
The Character of Church Elders // 1 Tim 3:1-7

The Character of Church Elders // 1 Tim 3:1-7

What matters most when it comes to elders in the church? Should a church be more interested in their style, effectiveness, or their holiness? In this teaching from Pastor Nathan Smith, he unpacks the qualifications of an elder to see that character is of primary importance when considering an elder. Why is this the case and why are elders so important for the local church?

Jul 31, 202336:59
The Role of Church Elders // 1 Tim 3:1-7

The Role of Church Elders // 1 Tim 3:1-7

In the New Testament, we learn about the roles of overseer, elder, and shepherd. Are these different roles or a description of one primary role? What is the purpose of that role and how is it practically worked out in the context of the local church? These are some of the questions that pastor Nathan answers from the book of 1 Timothy.

Jul 31, 202335:09
Evidences of a Walk with God // 1 Tim 3:1-7

Evidences of a Walk with God // 1 Tim 3:1-7

How is your walk with God? Do you enjoy time with him on a regular basis or is He is the last thing on your mind throughout the day? These are important questions for anyone claiming to follow Jesus.

Jul 18, 202338:14
Behold to Become // 2 Cor 3:18

Behold to Become // 2 Cor 3:18

What you behold you will become, so what are you beholding? In this teaching, Pastor Kent looks at the process of sanctification in the life of the believer. How does this process work and how much of it depends on us?

Jul 10, 202345:08
Theology to Doxology // Exodus 2

Theology to Doxology // Exodus 2

Pastor Nathan Fox shares how our right understanding of God leads to increased worship and obedience.

Jul 06, 202343:18
Keep your soul diligently // Deut 4:9

Keep your soul diligently // Deut 4:9

With Deut 4:9 in clear view, Pastor Joshua walks through the story of Gideon from victory with God to the abandonment of God for other things. What is the warning in this tragic story and how does this directly connect with out influence over our children and the future generations?

Jun 26, 202338:55
A Prayer for Unity Among the Body of Christ

A Prayer for Unity Among the Body of Christ

Welcome to a special prayer service featuring various scripture readings and times of prayer for unity among the body of Christ at Heritage. You can find the full video of this service, including the times of worship on our youtube page here - https://youtube.com/live/CNQo3g_Lko0?feature=share.

Jun 19, 202321:44
Sister - Persevere for your complete salvation is coming // 1 Tim 2:11-15

Sister - Persevere for your complete salvation is coming // 1 Tim 2:11-15

In this conclusion of a mini-series on women in the church, Pastor Nathan looks at 1 Tim 2:15. This difficult verse has caused confusion for men and women alike as it seems to indicate salvation by way of childbirth. Is this the case, or is there something else going on in Paul's writing? How does this verse relate the overall flow of his argument and what encouragement can be gleaned from this seemingly troublesome verse?

If you have not already, please take time to listen to the previous teaching for full context of this controversial passage. Those other teachings may help answer questions that you have about this section of scripture.

Final Mini-Series

  • Part 1 - Let a Woman Learn and Exercise Her Role Rightly
  • Part 2 - A Needed Confession Concerning Male Roles Exercised Unjustly
  • Part 3 - A Needed Understanding Concerning Females Roles Exercised in Dissatisfaction
  • Part 4 - The Great Debate: What Can a Woman Do in the Church?
  • Part 5 - Sisters -Persevere for Your Complete Salvation is Coming

#women #ministry #church #Bible #men #Genesis #love #grace

Jun 12, 202339:19
The Great Debate: What can a woman do in the church? \\ 1 Tim 2:11-15

The Great Debate: What can a woman do in the church? \\ 1 Tim 2:11-15

There is much confusion and struggle with the words of Paul in 1 Timothy 2. Are we to understand that God is commanding women to not speak at all? Is this a cultural condition or something else? Are women scripturally allowed to be pastors? Pastor Nathan Smith continues unpacking this often misunderstood to scripture in order to understand some of the specifics of Paul's argument. This teaching is the 4th in a series, therefore full context is found in the previous teachings.


#women #church #Jesus #headship #Genesis #marriage #love

Jun 05, 202344:21
A needed understanding of female roles exercised in disatisfaction // 1 Tim 2:11-15

A needed understanding of female roles exercised in disatisfaction // 1 Tim 2:11-15

Last week Pastor Nathan taught on the Bible's description on men's struggle with sin as it pertains to roles in marriage and the church. This week he unpacks the struggles women face in exercising their God-given roles. This is the 3rd teaching in this miniseries on men and women roles.

May 29, 202340:10
A needed confession of male roles exercised unjustly // 1 Tim 2:11-15

A needed confession of male roles exercised unjustly // 1 Tim 2:11-15

In the discussion of male and female roles inside the local church, it's important for men to recognize their own intrinsic fallenness. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks specifically at the #struggles of men that have caused harm to women in the church. This teaching will look at the nature of the fall in Genesis 3 and it's impact on men today. This is the second teaching in a series on the roles of #men and #women in the #church.

Series Titles:

  • May 14 - Let a Woman Learn and Exercise Her Role Rightly
  • May 21 - A Needed Confession Concerning Male Roles Exercised Unjustly
  • May 28 - A Needed Understanding Concerning Females Roles Exercised in Dissatisfaction
  • June 4 - The Great Debate: What Can a Woman Do in the Church?
  • June 11 - Sisters...Persevere for Your Complete Salvation is Coming


#Bible #Jesus #1Timothy #gender

May 22, 202343:03
Let a woman learn and exercise her role rightly \\ 1 Tim 2:11-15

Let a woman learn and exercise her role rightly \\ 1 Tim 2:11-15

This teaching is the first in a 5 part series on 1 Timothy 2:11-15, discussing the role of #women and #men in the church. This controversial passage has led to divisions in the #church, yet can be a means of encouragement when understood correctly. Over the next few weeks, Pastor Nathan will unpack many of the questions that arise from this passage in hopes to bring clarity and encouragement to brothers and sisters in Christ.

Upcoming Series Titles:

  • May 14 - Let a Woman Learn and Exercise Her Role Rightly
  • May 21 - A Needed Confession Concerning Male Roles Exercised Unjustly
  • May 28 - A Needed Understanding Concerning Females Roles Exercised in Dissatisfaction
  • June 4 - The Great Debate: What Can a Woman Do in the Church?
  • June 11 - Sisters...Persevere for Your Complete Salvation is Coming


May 15, 202344:15
There is a war over our worship // 1 Timothy 2:8-10

There is a war over our worship // 1 Timothy 2:8-10

When the church comes together to #worship it does so in the midst of a #spiritualbattle. 1 Timothy 2 speaks directly to some of those battles in the hearts of #men and #women specifically. While this passage about #modesty and #anger is often misunderstood - the Lord desires that it would help His people guard against our pride and walk in humility and love for one another in how we speak, act, and even dress.

May 08, 202339:34