Sermon Notes
Brentwood Baptist Church
Sermon Notes is a new podcast from Brentwood Baptist that takes a deeper look into the sermon planning process and behind the scenes of church life.
Episodes
Jesus and the War for Our Worship | Revelation 6
The seals are opening. The four horsemen are riding. Should you be afraid? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, host Brian Ball and Hunter Melton walk through Revelation 6, where the Lamb opens the first six seals and the world asks, "Who can stand?" They unpack the counterfeit conqueror on the white horse, the realities of war, famine, and death, and the martyrs' cry of "How long?" Most of all, they show that judgment is held on a leash in the nail-scarred hand of Jesus. The right response to Revelation isn't fear but worship. It means building bigger tables instead of bigger bomb shelters, loving our neighbors well, and remembering that the day of salvation is now.
Jesus Is Worthy | Revelation 5
Who is worthy to open the scroll? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Senior Pastor Jay Strother and Brian Ball walk through Revelation 5. John weeps because no one in heaven or on earth can open the sealed scroll. Then an elder points him to the Lion of the tribe of Judah, and John turns to see a slain Lamb standing. Jay and Brian look at the Old Testament imagery behind the scenes, what the Greek word axios (worthy) tells us, and why all of heaven breaks out in a new song. Jay also shares how this passage gives him unshakable hope while he battles cancer, and how God keeps opening doors for him to share the gospel, even in the cancer clinic. Together, they talk about what this vision means for us today: hope that holds when fear feels real, holiness that sets us apart for a purpose, and a mission to carry the gospel to every tribe, language, people, and nation. Revelation isn't meant to scare us. It's meant to strengthen our faith in the King who's on His throne right now.
Jesus and the Throne | Revelation 4
Before the book of Revelation gets to its seals, trumpets, and beasts, John sees one thing first: an occupied throne. In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, host Brian Ball and Campus and Teaching Pastor Aaron Bryant of The Church at Avenue South look at Revelation 4 and the throne room of heaven. They start with a quick tour of Revelation 1–3 and the letters to the seven churches, including what Ephesus can teach us about slowly drifting from our first love. Then they explain why persecuted believers needed to know that God, not Caesar, is in control. You'll hear what the jasper and carnelian stones say about God's character, why "holy, holy, holy" is the highest call to worship, and how the white robes of the redeemed point to the righteousness we receive through faith in Jesus. If you're carrying fear or uncertainty today, this conversation will help you look up and remember who's on the throne.
Jesus Unveiled | Revelation 1:1-8
In this first episode of our new series on the Book of Revelation, host Brian Ball sits down with John Joseph, Campus and Teaching Pastor at the Church at Station Hill, for a verse-by-verse look at Revelation 1:1-8. Together they explain what it means that Jesus is "coming soon," the difference between kairos and chronos time, and why a book written to suffering first-century Christians still speaks hope into hard seasons today. Join us as we open Scripture together and consider what it truly means to worship the Christ these visions reveal.
Fear God and Keep His Commandments: Wrapping Up Ecclesiastes
In the final episode of the Chasing the Wind series, Jay Strother and Brian Ball close out the book of Ecclesiastes with a look at chapter 12, verses 9 through 14, the passage where Solomon lands on his final word after chasing wisdom, pleasure, and everything under the sun. Jay and Brian walk through ten takeaways from the whole series, touching on the connection between Ecclesiastes and Proverbs, the honesty of the book's hardest verses, and why every pursuit apart from God is structurally incapable of satisfying us. They talk candidly about time, rest, gratitude, and legacy, and land on Solomon's closing charge: fear God and keep His commandments, because in the end, that's the whole of it.
Cast Your Bread Upon the Waters: Trusting God With What You Can't Control (Ecclesiastes 11)
In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother sits down with Brian Ball to continue their series through Ecclesiastes, Chasing the Wind: Finding What Lasts in a World That Doesn't. Together they dig into Ecclesiastes 11 and the phrase cast your bread upon the waters, exploring what it looks like to take active steps of faith even when we can't predict the outcome. From investing in people to giving generously to walking through hard callings, Jay and Brian talk honestly about trusting God with results that are His to give, not ours to guarantee. They also walk through a practical framework for wise decision-making rooted in Scripture, the Holy Spirit, godly community, and God-ordained circumstances. Whether you're facing a big decision or just learning to live with open hands, this conversation is a reminder that faithfulness, not certainty, is what God asks of us.
Two Is Better Than One: Why Biblical Community Matters
In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball dig into Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 and the truth that two is better than one. From bearing burdens and confessing sin to using our spiritual gifts, they explore why God designed us for biblical community — not as an optional add-on to the Christian life, but as one of the ways we bear His image and find real strength for the journey.
A Time for Everything: Finding God's Purpose in Every Season
In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball continue the Ecclesiastes series "Chasing the Wind" by sitting with Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 and Solomon's words on a time for everything. They talk about the difference between chronos and kairos, why God builds rhythms like Sabbath into our lives, and what real repentance looks like when we're tired of chasing a clock we can't control. It's an honest conversation about learning to number our days, let go of the urge to be our own god, and find rest in a God who makes everything beautifully fitting in its time.
Chasing After the Wind: Ecclesiastes 1 and Why Success, Pleasure, and Approval Never Satisfy
Solomon had more wealth, wisdom, pleasure, and power than anyone in history, and he still called life "meaningless." In this first episode of our new Ecclesiastes series, Chasing After the Wind, hosts Jay Strother and Brian Ball dig into Ecclesiastes 1 to unpack why the world's biggest promises — success, comfort, approval, and security — always leave us wanting more. They trace Solomon's story from faithful start to idolatrous drift, explain the Hebrew word hevel (often translated "vanity" or "futility"), and point to the one hope that doesn't fade under the sun: the gospel of Jesus Christ. Whether you're new to Ecclesiastes or have read it a dozen times, this conversation will help you see the book not as a threat, but as a gift.
What Really Happened at the Southern Baptist Convention: A Local Church Perspective
Every June, the Southern Baptist Convention makes headlines, but what actually happens in the room rarely matches the news cycle. In this special edition of Sermon Notes, Senior Pastor Jay Strother and Executive Pastor Brian Coates sit down to explain how the SBC really works: the cooperative program, the annual meeting, this year's big votes, and what it all means for Brentwood Baptist. If you've ever wondered what your church's SBC affiliation actually involves, this conversation gives you the on-the-ground perspective and the facts behind the headlines.
Confession Is the Key to True Worship | A MasterClass on Worship and Repentance
Is worship just singing, or is it something more?In this masterclass, Hunter Melton explains what true worship really is and why confession is the starting point for a right relationship with God.Many of us think of worship as songs we sing, but Scripture shows that worship is about treasuring God above all things. And before we can worship with a whole heart, we must first come to God with honesty and repentance.If we are not careful, we can go through the motions of worship while our hearts remain distant. But through confession, God restores us, draws us near, and invites us into deeper communion with Him.
Why You’re Struggling to Read the Bible | A MasterClass on Reading Scripture
Why does reading the Bible feel so overwhelming, and how do you actually start?In this MasterClass, David Hannah walks through the spiritual discipline of reading God’s Word in a world full of information, distraction, and confusion.We have access to more knowledge than ever before, but without a foundation of truth, it can leave us feeling anxious and directionless. Scripture is not just another source of information; it is the living, breathing Word of God that anchors us, equips us, and shapes how we live.Start small. Stay consistent. Let God’s Word shape your life.
Why Silence Feels So Uncomfortable | A MasterClass on Solitude
Why does silence feel so uncomfortable in a world full of constant noise and distraction?In this masterclass, Brandon Abbott shares practical ways to step away from distraction, create intentional space for solitude, and build rhythms of quiet that help you hear from God.If we are not careful, noise and activity will shape our thoughts, emotions, and pace of life more than God’s presence does. But through silence, Scripture, and intentional habits, we can slow down, reflect, and be formed more into the image of Christ.
The Digital Habits That Are Hurting Your Prayer Life | A MasterClass on Prayer
How do we cultivate a healthy prayer life in a world full of phones, notifications, and constant distraction?In this masterclass, John Joseph shares practical ways to build rhythms of prayer, create intentional space with God, pray throughout the day, and resist the digital habits that compete for our attention.If we are not careful, technology will shape our minds, emotions, and priorities more than God’s Word does. But through prayer, Scripture, and intentional habits, we can be formed more into the image of Christ.
Finding Silence in a Noisy World: How Solitude with God Shapes Your Spiritual Life
Why does silence feel so difficult in today’s world? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Brian Ball sits down with Mike Glenn to explore the spiritual discipline of solitude and why intentional time with God matters more than ever. Together, they discuss distraction, technology, noise, prayer, spiritual rhythms, and the example of Jesus withdrawing to commune with the Father. If you feel overwhelmed, spiritually distracted, or constantly busy, this conversation offers practical encouragement for slowing down, hearing from God, and building rhythms that shape your soul.
How Reading Scripture Transforms Your Life: The Power of God’s Word
What happens when you consistently read Scripture? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Brian Ball and Evan Kunz explore 2 Timothy 3 and the truth that God’s Word is living, active, and able to transform your life. They unpack how Scripture, combined with the work of the Holy Spirit, shapes your desires, corrects your thinking, and equips you to live faithfully in a distracted world. If you’ve ever struggled to stay consistent or wondered if reading the Bible really makes a difference, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to engage God’s Word in a deeper way.
How to Pray with Purpose: Understanding the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6
What if prayer isn’t about getting God to respond, but about aligning your heart with Him? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Brian Ball and Hunter Melton walk through the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6 and uncover a deeper, more meaningful way to pray. From adoration and trust to provision, forgiveness, and spiritual warfare, this conversation challenges common misconceptions and invites you into a more personal, powerful relationship with God through prayer.
Formed Not Conformed: Understanding Genesis, AI, and the Pursuit of God’s Truth
What’s shaping you—God’s truth or the world’s counterfeits? In this episode, we launch the Formed Not Conformed MasterClass series with a deep dive into Genesis 3, unpacking the serpent’s deception, humanity’s hunger for godlike knowledge, and the modern parallels found in artificial intelligence. Together, we explore why knowledge without trust leads to emptiness, how AI can mirror the ancient temptation to replace God, and why spiritual formation through Scripture, prayer, confession, and dependence on Christ remains the only path to life and freedom.
Palm Sunday and Holy Week in Mark 11: Welcoming the True King
In this Holy Week episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball reflect on Mark chapter 11 and the significance of Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, walking through Palm Sunday and the days leading up to Good Friday. The conversation explores the historical and prophetic details surrounding the events, the mixed motives of the crowds, Jesus’s confrontations with religious leaders, and his unwavering commitment to fulfill God’s will. Listeners are invited to slow down in God’s Word, consider Jesus’s humility and sovereignty, and prepare their hearts for Easter by contemplating the weight, majesty, and mystery of the cross and resurrection.
Stand Firm in Grace: 1 Peter 5 on Humility, Leadership, and Hope
In this powerful conclusion to the Chosen Exile series, Brian Ball and Aaron Bryant dive into 1 Peter chapter 5, reflecting on Peter’s unique voice and his charge to Christian leaders. The conversation explores the call to humility and faithful stewardship, discussing how leadership in the church should be shaped by Christlike character rather than worldly accomplishments. The episode focuses on themes of suffering, humility as a status, and trusting God’s timing for exaltation, offering encouragement to cast anxieties on the Lord and live with hope. Throughout, Aaron Bryant shares practical wisdom from his pastoral experience, and both speakers emphasize the importance of biblical community, perseverance, and the comforting promise that God will restore and strengthen believers. Listeners are invited to apply these truths, take action in their daily walk, and anchor their hearts in God’s grace as the series closes and the church turns toward Holy Week.
Living with Urgency and Love: Lessons from 1 Peter 4 on Faithfulness
In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Brian Ball is joined by longtime friend and pastor Mike Glenn to continue the "Chosen Exile" series with a deep dive into 1 Peter chapter 4. Together, they explore Peter’s call for believers to live with urgency, humility, and love as they follow Christ in a world that often feels foreign. The conversation touches on the importance of prayer as a foundation, the true meaning of hospitality, the role of spiritual gifts in serving others, and how suffering can shape and strengthen faith. Brian Ball and Mike Glenn share personal stories, practical wisdom, and encouragement for listeners to trust God through every season, embracing community and hope—even in the midst of trials.
1 Peter on Suffering and Hope: Why Christians Must Be Ready to Defend Their Faith
In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Brian Ball and Brandon Abbott explore 1 Peter chapters 3 and 4, diving deep into the themes of humility, courage, and unwavering hope for believers living as “chosen exiles.” They discuss what it means to follow Christ with faithfulness, even in the face of suffering, while offering practical insights on building Christian community, raising faith-filled families, and preparing to give a gentle yet bold defense for the hope found in Jesus. The conversation is both theologically rich and down-to-earth, filled with stories from rural Tennessee, reflections on church life, and an honest look at how suffering shapes our witness and draws us closer to God. Whether you’re seeking encouragement in your own challenges or a clearer understanding of living out your faith, this episode is packed with wisdom, authenticity, and hope.
Living a Powerful Witness: Suffering and the Hope That Sets Us Apart
What does it look like to follow Jesus when life feels unfair, uncertain, or interrupted? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, we walk through 1 Peter 3 and explore how humility, compassion, and even blessing those who hurt us become a powerful witness to the world. From suffering and submission to everyday evangelism, this conversation reminds us that our greatest apologetic is Christ at work within us, a hope that cannot be shaken.
1 Peter and Marriage: Suffering, Submission, and the Witness of Our Relationships
What does 1 Peter really teach about marriage, suffering, and submission—and why does it matter for everyday life? In this episode, the conversation slows down to place Peter’s household instructions in their first-century Roman context, revealing how Scripture elevates dignity, calls husbands to understanding and honor, and forms marriages into a visible gospel witness. Rather than starting with modern assumptions, listeners are challenged to begin with the Word of God and see how Christ’s example of humble strength reshapes relationships, authority, and the way believers live before a watching world.
Finding Hope in Suffering: Lessons from 1 Peter and the Power of Submission
What do you do when life feels unfair, painful, or completely out of your control? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball slow down in 1 Peter 2:18–25 to explore a hard but hope-filled truth: you can’t always control your circumstances, but you can follow Jesus’ example in them. From submission that isn’t weakness, to suffering that becomes a witness, this conversation points us to Christ, our Shepherd and Overseer, who suffered for us and shows us how to endure with faithfulness and hope.
Living Stones in 1 Peter: How Jesus the Cornerstone Builds a United Church Community
What if the church isn’t a place you go, but a people God is building—stone by stone? In this episode, the conversation centers on 1 Peter’s picture of believers as living stones being formed into a spiritual house with Jesus as the cornerstone. You’ll hear why unity doesn’t mean uniformity, how good traditions can quietly become distractions, and how Spirit-led community makes God’s presence visible to the world through love, obedience, and mercy.
Living Stones and Chosen Exiles: Building Community and Faith from 1 Peter
In this episode of Sermon Notes Podcast, Brian Ball sits down with Brandon Abbott to unpack 1 Peter and the stunning image of believers as “living stones.” Together, they explore how 1 Peter reveals Jesus as the cornerstone, how the church becomes a spiritual house marked by unity (not uniformity), and why our traditions can’t replace true obedience and Spirit-led community. If you’ve ever wondered what it means to belong, to grow, and to live faithfully where God has placed you—this conversation will help you see it.
Discovering Our Identity and Security in Christ Through 1 Peter
In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball begin a new study through 1 Peter by tracing Peter’s opening praise and what it reveals about our identity and security in Christ. You’ll hear why the Christian life starts with worship, how God’s mercy gives us new birth into a living hope, and what it means to have an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. The conversation also addresses how trials refine faith, why believers can rejoice even in suffering, and why the prophets and even angels longed to see the salvation we now experience in Jesus.
Living as Chosen Exiles: Beginning Our Journey Through First Peter
In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball kick off a new series called "Chosen Exiles," diving into the book of 1 Peter and its message for believers living as God's people in a world that often feels unfamiliar or challenging. Together, they explore Peter's unique perspective, discussing his relatable ups-and-downs in faith, the importance of suffering in the Christian life, and what it means to be "chosen exiles"—people set apart by God but not fully at home in the present world. They unpack key theological concepts, such as divine sovereignty, hope rooted in Christ’s resurrection, and living in humble obedience, all while highlighting the practical relevance of Peter's words for the church today. Whether you're facing hardship or wrestling with your identity as a follower of Jesus, this episode sets the stage for a rich journey through First Peter, offering encouragement, insight, and a reminder of who you are in Christ
Christmas Hope in a Broken World | Matthew 2, Herod, and the Return of the King
Christmas didn’t arrive in calm and quiet—it came into a broken world. In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball walk through Matthew 2 to explore Herod’s violence, Mary and Joseph’s costly obedience, and the clash of kingdoms surrounding Jesus’ birth. Rather than avoiding suffering and lament, Matthew shows us a deeper Christmas hope: the true King has come, God is with us in the darkness, and evil will not have the final word.
How King Herod, the Pharisees, and the Wise Men Responded to Jesus’ Arrival
In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, host Jay Strother and Brian Ball take a deeper dive into Matthew’s Gospel as we approach Christmas. Together, they discuss how Matthew reveals Jesus as the promised King, unpacking key themes of authority, fulfillment, and the kingship of Jesus.Explore fascinating cultural and historical context—from the motivations of Herod the Great to the different Jewish factions like the Pharisees and Sadducees. Plus, Jay Strother and Brian Ball shed light on the mysterious story of the Magi, what their journey reveals, and the power of being spiritually watchful and obedient.You'll also hear practical insights on how not to miss what God is doing in your life, the importance of biblical community, and why true change comes from submitting to God’s Word. Whether you’re a long-time Bible reader or just getting started, this episode will challenge and encourage you in your faith journey!
Matthew 1:18–25 – Joseph, the Virgin Birth, and God With Us
What really happened in Matthew 1:18–25, and why does Joseph’s quiet “yes” still matter today? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball walk through Joseph’s world—an honor–shame culture, an unexpected pregnancy, and an angelic dream that upended his settled plans. Together they unpack Joseph and the virgin birth, the fulfillment of Isaiah’s Emmanuel prophecy, and the mystery of Jesus as fully God and fully man. Along the way, they talk about wonder in an age of instant answers, ordinary obedience that changes history, and what it means to start each day saying, “Lord, I’m still here—what do You want me to do today?”
Matthew 1–2: Jesus, History, and the Unexpected Paths to Christmas
Matthew 1–2 doesn’t just tell a Christmas story—it reveals how God has been guiding history toward Jesus all along. In this episode, Jay Strother and Brian Ball explore these opening chapters of Matthew, weaving together genealogy, world empires, religious factions, and everyday people to show how the promised King arrived through unexpected paths—and how we can avoid missing Him ourselves.
Matthew 21–28: The Authority of Jesus, Repentance, and the Great Commission
In this episode of Sermon Notes, Brian Ball sits down with Aaron Bryant to trace the theme of authority through Matthew 21–28. From religious leaders who fear people more than God, to parables that expose empty religion and invite real repentance, this conversation shows how Jesus is not just a teacher with opinions, He is the King with all authority. The guys close in Matthew 28 with the Great Commission, challenging us to trust Christ’s rule in every corner of life and live what we say we believe.
Matthew’s Message: Jesus’ Kingdom, the Church, and the Heart Behind the Lost Sheep
In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball walk through Matthew 15–18 and show how these chapters form a powerful, connected narrative about Jesus’ kingdom, the heart behind our actions, the value of every believer, and how the church is meant to care for one another. From Jesus confronting empty tradition, to Peter’s confession, the transfiguration, the lost sheep, and the biblical model of restoring a brother or sister, this conversation will help you see Jesus more clearly and understand how His kingdom community is meant to live today.
Matthew 10–14 & the Feeding of the 5,000
In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, we walk through Matthew 10–14 and discover how Jesus’ authority reorients everything—our fear, our families, our doubts, and our ministry. From persecution and missionary training in Matthew 10, to John the Baptist’s doubts, Sabbath controversy, the parables of the sower, and the Feeding of the 5,000, you’ll see how Jesus invites us to trust His abundance instead of living with a scarcity mindset. We talk life groups, gospel conversations, and what it means to be a conduit of God’s grace as we “go and feed” the people He’s placed around us.
Under Authority: Lessons from Jesus’ Ministry in Matthew Chapters 8 and 9
What does it mean to live under Jesus’ authority? In this conversation, Jay Strother and Brian Ball explore Matthew 8–9—where Jesus heals the sick, calms storms, casts out demons, and calls disciples to follow Him. They unpack how faith recognizes His power, how authority is delegated by God, and how we can respond with humble obedience in our everyday lives. This episode will help you see the King more clearly and follow Him more faithfully.
Built to Last: Living the Sermon on the Mount in a World That Won’t Hold
In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, host Brian Ball is joined by Wade Owens, campus and teaching pastor at the Church at Nolensville, to dive deep into the Gospel of Matthew, focusing on the Sermon on the Mount. Together, they explore chapters 5-7, unpacking Jesus’ revolutionary teachings on discipleship, heart transformation, and authentic Christian living. The discussion covers everything from the Beatitudes and the importance of genuine faith, to spiritual maturity, prayer, generosity, and the challenges of living out kingdom values in a countercultural way. With practical wisdom and encouraging stories, Brian and Wade tackle big questions about judgment, discernment, spiritual fruit, and building a life on the firm foundation of Christ. This episode is filled with thoughtful insights and actionable steps for anyone wanting to grow deeper in faith and follow Jesus with intention.
Living Light: How Jesus Reorders Our Hearts, Habits, and Treasures
What does Jesus really mean when He tells us to give, pray, and fast in secret? Why is storing up treasures in heaven the key to freedom from anxiety? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball unpack Matthew 6, showing how Jesus reorients our spiritual practices and daily priorities around His kingdom. Discover the true meaning of kingdom living—and why trusting God with your daily bread changes everything.
Living the Sermon on the Mount: Righteousness, Relationships, and Life in God’s Kingdom
What does it really mean to live the Sermon on the Mount? In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball unpack Matthew 5 and explore the true heart of kingdom living—where righteousness flows from the inside out, not external rule-following. From anger and lust to divorce and loving your enemies, this episode challenges cultural norms and reveals how Jesus redefines obedience, relationships, and the radical nature of life in God’s kingdom.
Living the Sermon on the Mount: How Matthew Shows Us Life in God’s Kingdom
In this episode of the Sermon Notes Podcast, host Jay Strother and guest Brian Ball dive deep into the Sermon on the Mount, unpacking the beginning of Jesus' most famous teaching in the Gospel of Matthew. The conversation explores the historical and theological significance of the Sermon on the Mount, drawing rich parallels between Jesus and Moses, and highlighting the radically countercultural nature of Jesus’ message. Jay and Brian discuss the Beatitudes, emphasizing how they reveal the character traits of kingdom citizens, not as a checklist, but as the natural outworkings of a transformed heart in Christ. They reflect on the idea of blessing, spiritual dependence, humility, and the importance of living as salt and light in a challenging world. The episode offers both accessible insights and practical encouragement for listeners seeking to follow Jesus more faithfully in daily life.
Follow Jesus: Immediate Obedience and the Cost of Discipleship in Matthew 4
In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, Jay Strother and Brian Ball dive deep into the biblical call to discipleship, continuing their journey through the Gospel of Matthew. As they unpack the stories of Jesus calling His first disciples—including fishermen, tax collectors, and skeptics—they explore what it means to follow Jesus with immediate obedience, childlike faith, and a willingness to count the cost. Jay and Brian reflect on how discipleship in the first century required not just belief, but a total reordering of life—leaving behind jobs, family expectations, and comfort to walk with Jesus. They contrast this radical call with today’s culture of shallow relationships and delayed commitment, offering a powerful reminder that Jesus still calls, and we are still invited to obey. If you're wrestling with what it looks like to truly follow Christ, this conversation is packed with biblical wisdom, pastoral insight, and heartfelt encouragement.
Matthew 4: Jesus’ Temptation and Trusting God in the Wilderness
In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, host Jay Strother and guest Brian Ball dive deep into Matthew 4, unpacking the powerful story of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. Building on insights from previous weeks, they explore the connections between Jesus’ experience and the broader storyline of scripture, especially how the Gospel of Matthew highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. The conversation tackles what it means to follow Jesus through times of testing, the reality of spiritual warfare, and how God's Word equips believers to stand firm against temptation. Jay and Brian offer thoughtful reflections on the nature of true identity, the danger of shortcuts, and the importance of grounding oneself in scripture rather than cultural narratives or emotions. With practical applications and rich biblical context, this episode invites listeners to find hope and resilience in Christ’s example and victory.
Matthew 3: Jesus as King, Fulfillment, and the Call to Genuine Repentance
In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, host Jay Strother is joined by Brian Ball as they kick off a new series diving deep into the Gospel of Matthew. The conversation explores the unique perspective Matthew brings as both a former tax collector and a keen observer of Jewish tradition, highlighting how Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecies and is revealed as the true King. Together, Jay and Brian discuss the historical and religious context of first-century Judaism, the powerful call to repentance issued by John the Baptist, and the importance of understanding and living out the authority and kingship of Jesus in our everyday lives. With plenty of engaging anecdotes and practical applications, this episode sets the stage for a meaningful journey through Matthew’s gospel, encouraging listeners to dig deeper into scripture, embrace repentance, and reflect Christ’s kingdom in their own lives.
Using Media and Counseling to Reach the Nations: Keegan & Carla’s Story from Southeast Asia
In this inspiring episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, host Jay Strother sits down with Keegan and Carla, global workers serving in Southeast Asia, to wrap up a special series on missions. Keegan and Carla share their unique journeys—how a passion for media, art, and counseling led them to serve with CREATE Labs and WELL International, using creative media and soul care to reach unreached people groups and support other missionaries. The conversation delves into topics like contextualization, the power of equipping local leaders, challenges of cross-cultural family life, and the need for soul care among missionaries. With honest stories and practical wisdom, Keegan and Carla invite listeners to consider their own passions as potential avenues for God’s work, reminding us that everyone—regardless of gifting—has a role to play in advancing the gospel.
Hope & Healing in Kenya: How Medical Missions Are Making Disciples Across Africa
Discover how a medical missionary in Kenya is bringing hope, healing, and discipleship across Africa. In this inspiring episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, Britney—a pediatric surgeon—and her husband Micah share how God is using their gifts to train the next generation of African doctors, care for critically ill children, and lead Bible studies that equip future leaders. Learn how their journey through medicine, missions, and marriage is impacting lives in Kenya and beyond. Whether you’re called to go or called to send, this conversation will deepen your view of global missions.
From Short-term Mission Trips to a Lifelong Calling: Danielle's Journey in South Africa
In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, Jay Strother sits down with Danielle Schneider, a seasoned global worker who has served in South Africa for over 17 years. Danielle shares her inspiring journey of being called to missions, the pivotal moments that led her to Living Hope Ministries, and her dual roles as a life skills educator and children's ministry leader at King of Kings Baptist Church. Together, they discuss the unique challenges and joys of cross-cultural ministry, the importance of equipping national leaders, and how short-term mission trips can often serve as a launching pad for deeper involvement. Listeners will also hear about the impact of partnership between local churches and global ministries, as well as the personal side of missionary life—highlighting both the excitement and the sacrifices involved. The episode wraps up with practical advice for those discerning a call to missions and an invitation to pray for Danielle, Living Hope, and the ongoing gospel work among children and families in South Africa.
Answering the Call: Winston and Emmy's Stories from Zimbabwe’s Mission Field
In this episode of the Sermon Notes podcast, Jay Strother kicks off a special August series focused on global missions by sitting down with Winston and Emmy Coltart, global workers serving in Zimbabwe. The conversation explores their remarkable journey from meeting on a short-term mission trip to planting a church and opening a gospel-centered coffee shop near a university in Zimbabwe. Winston and Emmy share candidly about the challenges and joys of ministry in Africa, adapting their outreach strategies, and how Romans 1:16-17 has shaped their boldness and confidence in sharing Christ. The episode is filled with inspiring personal stories, honest reflections on cross-cultural ministry, and encouragement for listeners to embrace their own call to obedience and mission, no matter where they are.
How to Strengthen Your Church Through Everyday Faithfulness | Acts 18
In this episode of Sermon Notes, host Jay Strother and guest Brandon Hayes, campus and teaching pastor at the church at Harpeth Heights, wrap up the "For the Church" series with a deep dive into Acts 18:18-23. Together, they discuss how the apostle Paul's pattern of everyday faithfulness and intentional discipleship was key to strengthening the early church—not just growing in numbers but building genuine depth and resilience among believers. The conversation highlights the rhythms of ministry, the importance of relationships within the church, and the value of spiritual fundamentals like prayer, gospel community, and encouragement. Jay and Brandon also share practical examples from their own pastoral experiences and reflect on how moments of faithfulness—even the understated and unseen—can have lasting impact for the church’s mission today.
Why Baptism Matters: Embracing Obedience in Acts 10
In this episode of Sermon Notes, Wade Owens and Matt Pearson, campus and teaching pastors at Brentwood Baptist churches, have a heartfelt and insightful discussion centered on Acts 10:44-48—the pivotal moment when the Holy Spirit falls on Gentile believers for the first time. They explore the global scope of the gospel, the importance of immediate obedience in the life of a Christian, and why baptism was and should still be a bold, public declaration of faith. The pastors reflect on the early church’s passion for baptism, the significance of communal celebrations, and how these ancient practices can challenge and encourage believers today. They also address common hesitations around baptism and urge listeners to consider their own next steps of obedience and faith.