2026-08-09 Jesus, Son of Man

2026-08-09 Jesus, Son of Man
by Pastor Chris Berg
Scripture Reference: Mark 9:9-13

And as they were coming down the mountain, he charged them to tell no one what they had seen, 
until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. So they kept the matter to themselves, 
questioning what this rising from the dead might mean. 
And they asked him, “Why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?”
And he said to them, “Elijah does come first to restore all things. 
And how is it written of the Son of Man that he should suffer many things a
and be treated with contempt? But I tell you that Elijah has come, 
and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him.”
 
Notes, outline and a summary from this sermon are made by Pocket AI and found here:
This sermon explores the theological significance of the title "Son of Man," centering on Mark 9:9–13. The discussion examines why Jesus favored this specific designation and how it encapsulates his dual nature as both fully human and fully divine.

The Context of the Title
Following the Transfiguration, Jesus charged Peter, James, and John to remain silent about what they had seen until the "Son of Man" had risen from the dead.

Intentionality: Jesus specifically chose this title over the first-person "I" to emphasize a specific prophetic identity.
Qualification of Witness: The disciples were not yet qualified to testify about the Transfiguration because they could not comprehend Christ’s glory without the context of his resurrection.
The Elijah Connection: Jesus clarifies that John the Baptist fulfilled the prophecy of Elijah’s return. Just as John suffered and was rejected, the Son of Man was destined for the same path—a reality the disciples were hesitant to accept.
The Three Pillars of the "Son of Man"
1. A Title of Humanity
Jesus is the "God-man." While his deity was often questioned during his earthly ministry, modern doubts often lean toward his humanity.

Under the Law: To redeem those under the law, Christ had to be born under the law (Galatians 4:4–5). Only a human could serve as a substitute for human sin.
The Perfect Sacrifice: Animal sacrifices were temporary provisions. A permanent solution required a sinless human life—a "body prepared" for sacrifice (Hebrews 10:4–7).
Sympathetic High Priest: His humanity allows him to sympathize with human weakness, having experienced hunger, exhaustion, and temptation.
2. A Title of Humility
The title reflects Christ’s "emptying" of himself (Philippians 2:5–8).

Example of Service: He moved from the glories of heaven to the rejection of man.
Preparation for the Cross: By using this title, Jesus was mentally preparing the disciples for a suffering Messiah rather than the immediate political conqueror they anticipated.
3. A Title of Deity and Dominion
Paradoxically, "Son of Man" is also a claim to divine authority, rooted in the prophecy of Daniel 7:13–14.
 

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!
All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Church Office: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-08-02 Transfigured

2026-08-02 Transfigured
by Pastor Chris Berg
 
Scripture Reference: Mark 9:1-13

1 And he said to them, “Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see that the kingdom of God has come with power.”
2 After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. 3 His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them. 4 And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses, who were talking with Jesus.
5 Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 6 (He did not know what to say, they were so frightened.)
7 Then a cloud appeared and covered them, and a voice came from the cloud: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!”
8 Suddenly, when they looked around, they no longer saw anyone with them except Jesus.
9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus gave them orders not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10 They kept the matter to themselves, discussing what “rising from the dead” meant.
11 And they asked him, “Why do the teachers of the law say that Elijah must come first?”
12 Jesus replied, “To be sure, Elijah does come first, and restores all things. Why then is it written that the Son of Man must suffer much and be rejected? 13 But I tell you, Elijah has come, and they have done to him everything they wished, just as it is written about him.”

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!
All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Church Office: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

Notes, outline and a summary from this sermon are made by Pocket AI and found here:

The sermon examines the Transfiguration of Christ as recorded in Mark 9:1–8, framing it as a pivotal transition from Jesus’ teachings on suffering and rejection to a physical demonstration of his divine glory.

The Kingdom of God and the Transfiguration
The teaching begins with Mark 9:1, where Jesus promises that some standing there would not taste death until they see the "kingdom of God after it has come with power." While various theological interpretations exist, the context suggests this refers specifically to the Transfiguration occurring just six days later.

• Metamorphosis: The word "transfigured" is derived from metamorphosis, signifying a complete change in form rather than mere outward conformity.
• The Contrast of Form: In his earthly ministry, Jesus appeared ordinary, lacking "majesty that we should look at him" (Isaiah 53:2). The Transfiguration briefly unveiled his true, glorified nature—characterized by clothes of an "impossibly white" brilliance.

Symbolic Presence: Moses and Elijah
The appearance of Moses and Elijah alongside Jesus serves as a validation of his identity through the lens of the Old Testament.

• The Law and the Prophets: Moses represents the Law (the Pentateuch), and Elijah represents the Prophets. Their presence signifies that the entirety of Scripture stands in agreement with Jesus.
• Mountain Revelations: Both figures previously experienced unique revelations of God’s glory on mountains (Sinai and Horeb). Their presence on this high mountain ties their historical experiences to the current revelation of Christ.

Peter’s Misunderstanding and Divine Correction
Peter, terrified by the sight, suggests building three shrines (tabernacles) for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. This suggestion is identified as a mistake because it implies equality between the three.

• The Divine Rebuttal: God the Father interrupts Peter from a cloud, declaring, "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him."
• Superiority of Christ: The command to "listen to him" establishes Jesus as superior to the Law and the Prophets. While he is in agreement with them, they are ultimately obedient to him.

Strategic Significance
The Transfiguration is presented not just as a historical event, but as a multi-layered promise:
• A Preview: It offers a glimpse of the transcendent glory Christ will exhibit upon his return as the "Lion of Judah."
• Encouragement for Suffering: For the original audience in Rome facing Nero’s persecution, and for modern believers, it serves as proof that present humiliation and suffering will eventually be transformed into glory.
• A Call to Obedience: The magnificence and power displayed are intended to motivate a "fear of God," which is the beginning of wisdom and the foundation for practical obedience.


Mark 8:31 | Jesus teaches on suffering | Jesus explains he must be rejected, killed, and rise again.
6 Days Later | Ascent of the Mountain | Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain.
The Event | Transfiguration | Jesus' form changes; Moses and Elijah appear.
The Interruption | Peter's Suggestion | Peter proposes building three shrines for the figures.
The Conclusion | Divine Affirmation | God speaks from the cloud; Moses and Elijah vanish, leaving only Jesus.
</pocket:timeline> 

2026-07-26 Setting Your Mind

2026-07-26 Setting Your Mind
by Pastor Chris Berg
 
Scripture: Mark 8:31-38

31 He then began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again. 32 He spoke plainly about this, and Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. “Get behind me, Satan!” he said. “You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” The Way of the Cross
34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? 37 Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? 38 If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!
All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Church Office: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-07-19 Real Growth

2026-07-19 Real Growth
by Pastor Chris Berg
 
Scripture: Mark 8:22-30

22 They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. 23 He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?” 24 He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.” 25 Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. 26 Jesus sent him home, saying, “Don’t even go into the village.” 27 Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, “Who do people say I am?” 28 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” 29 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” 
30 Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him. 

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!
All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Church Office: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-07-12 Beware of Leaven

2026-07-12 Beware of Leaven
by Pastor Chris Berg
 
Scripture Reference: Mark 8:1-21
8 During those days another large crowd gathered. Since they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him and said, 2 “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. 3 If I send them home hungry, they will collapse on the way, because some of them have come a long distance.”
4 His disciples answered, “But where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?”
5 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked.
“Seven,” they replied.
6 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When he had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people, and they did so. 7 They had a few small fish as well; he gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. 8 The people ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 9 About four thousand were present. After he had sent them away, 10 he got into the boat with his disciples and went to the region of Dalmanutha.
11 The Pharisees came and began to question Jesus. To test him, they asked him for a sign from heaven. 12 He sighed deeply and said, “Why does this generation ask for a sign? Truly I tell you, no sign will be given to it.” 13 Then he left them, got back into the boat and crossed to the other side.
The Yeast of the Pharisees and Herod
14 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. 15 “Be careful,” Jesus warned them. “Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod.”
16 They discussed this with one another and said, “It is because we have no bread.”
17 Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: “Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?”
“Twelve,” they replied.
20 “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?”
They answered, “Seven.”
21 He said to them, “Do you still not understand?”


Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/
Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!
All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Church Office: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM

Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-07-05 A True Confession

2026-07-05 A True Confession
by Pastor Chris Berg
 
Scripture: Mark 7:31-37 
31 Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis. 32 There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and they begged Jesus to place his hand on him.
33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched the man’s tongue. 34 He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, “Ephphatha!” (which means “Be opened!”). 35 At this, the man’s ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly.
36 Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone. But the more he did so, the more they kept talking about it. 37 People were overwhelmed with amazement. “He has done everything well,” they said. “He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/
Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!
All are welcome. 
217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Church Office: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-06-28 Even Dogs Eat Crumbs

2026-06-28 Even Dogs Eat Crumbs

by Pastor Chris Berg

Scripture Reference: Mark 7:24-30

24 Jesus got up and went away from there to the region of Tyre. And when He had entered a house, He wanted no one to know of it; yet He could not escape notice. 25 But after hearing of Him, a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit immediately came and fell at His feet. 26 Now the woman was a Gentile, of the Syrophoenician race. And she kept asking Him to cast the demon out of her daughter. 27 And He was saying to her, “Let the children be satisfied first, for it is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” 28 But she answered and *said to Him, “Yes, Lord, but even the dogs under the table feed on the children’s crumbs.” 29 And He said to her, “Because of this answer go; the demon has gone out of your daughter.” 30 And going back to her home, she found the child lying on the bed, the demon having left.

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"

https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!

All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448

Church Office: (985) 626-3114

Sunday Service: 9:30AM

Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM

Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-06-14 The Need for Radical Purity

2026-06-14 The Need for Radical Purity
by Pastor Chris Berg

Scripture Reference: Mark 7:14-23

14 Again Jesus called the crowd to him and said, “Listen to me, everyone, and understand this. 15 Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.”

17 After he had left the crowd and entered the house, his disciples asked him about this parable. 18 “Are you so dull?” he asked. “Don’t you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them? 19 For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.” (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.)

20 He went on: “What comes out of a person is what defiles them. 21 For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, 22 adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. 23 All these evils come from inside and defile a person.”

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!
All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Church Office: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-06-07 Grow Where You've Been Planted

2026-06-07 Grow Where You've Been Planted
by Seth Carroll 
 
Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 29:1-11

29 This is the text of the letter that the prophet Jeremiah sent from Jerusalem to the surviving elders among the exiles and to the priests, the prophets and all the other people Nebuchadnezzar had carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. 2 (This was after King Jehoiachin and the queen mother, the court officials and the leaders of Judah and Jerusalem, the skilled workers and the artisans had gone into exile from Jerusalem.) 3 He entrusted the letter to Elasah son of Shaphan and to Gemariah son of Hilkiah, whom Zedekiah king of Judah sent to King Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon. It said:

4 This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5 “Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. 6 Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. 7 Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” 8 Yes, this is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. Do not listen to the dreams you encourage them to have. 9 They are prophesying lies to you in my name. I have not sent them,” declares the Lord.

10 This is what the Lord says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.


Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!
All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Church Office: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-05-31 Warning About Traditionalism

2026-05-31 Warning About Traditionalism
by Pastor Chris Berg
Scripture Reference: Mark 7:1-13

The Pharisees and some of the scribes gathered around Him when they had come from Jerusalem, 2 and had seen that some of His disciples were eating their bread with impure hands, that is, unwashed. 3 (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they carefully wash their hands, thus observing the traditions of the elders; 4 and when they come from the market place, they do not eat unless they cleanse themselves; and there are many other things which they have received in order to observe, such as the washing of cups and pitchers and copper pots.) 5 The Pharisees and the scribes *asked Him, “Why do Your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat their bread with impure hands?” 6 And He said to them, “Rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written:
‘This people honors Me with their lips,
But their heart is far away from Me.
7 ‘But in vain do they worship Me,
Teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’
8 Neglecting the commandment of God, you hold to the tradition of men.”
9 He was also saying to them, “You are experts at setting aside the commandment of God in order to keep your tradition. 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who speaks evil of father or mother, is to be put to death’; 11 but you say, ‘If a man says to his father or his mother, whatever I have that would help you is Corban (that is to say, given to God),’ 12 you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or his mother; 13 thus invalidating the word of God by your tradition which you have handed down; and you do many things such as that.”


Notes, outline and a summary from this sermon are made by Pocket AI and found here:
This sermon serves as a warning against traditionalism—the elevation of man-made customs over divine commandment.

Core Thesis

Traditionalism is the maintenance of tradition specifically to resist change or as a substitute for a relationship with God. While traditions can be useful tools, traditionalism acts as a "taskmaster" that chokes the Word of God, rendering worship worthless and distancing the heart from the Creator.

The Pharisaical Model: Hard-Hearted Soil

Pastor identifies the scribes and Pharisees as the primary examples of "hard-packed soil" from the Parable of the Sower. Their resistance to Jesus is rooted in three historical friction points:
• Authority: They accused Jesus of blasphemy when he forgave sins.

• Social Boundaries: They criticized his association with "sinners" and tax collectors.

• Legalism: They sought to discredit him over Sabbath observations and ceremonial washing.

Three Warnings Against Traditionalism

Traditionalism Encourages Hypocrisy
Adherence to tradition allows for an outward appearance of righteousness while the heart remains distant. Pastor cites Martin Luther’s observations of the Roman Church and the sale of indulgences as historical parallels where "going through the motions" replaced genuine repentance.

Traditionalism Results in Worthless Worship
Worship is not validated by its age, style (Gothic vs. Contemporary), or the use of specific instruments. Pastor argues that both the "Emerging Church" (laser lights/fog) and "Ancient-Future" movements (liturgical/incense) can fall into the same trap if the focus is on the experience rather than faithfulness to Scripture.
• The Goal: To be faithful, not "traditional" or "contemporary."

• The Authority: Sanctification comes through Truth (the Word), not tradition.

Traditionalism Elevates Man Over God
By prioritizing the "tradition of the elders" over the commandments of God, the Pharisees effectively claimed that man’s word is more authoritative than God’s. Pastor highlights the practice of "Corban" (Mark 7:11) as a manipulative use of religious tradition to avoid the biblical command to honor and support one's parents.

Proper Engagement with Tradition

To benefit from traditions without becoming a traditionalist, Pastor proposes two filters:
• Subservience to Scripture: If a tradition opposes the Word or becomes a heavy burden, it must be dropped. The Word of God is sufficient; tradition is optional.

• Prioritize the Goal: Ask why a tradition exists. If the purpose is no longer relevant (illustrated by the "cutting the ends off the ham" anecdote), the energy should be redirected toward the mission of the Great Commission.

Conclusion

The Pharisees missed the presence of the Eternal Creator because they were preoccupied with an argument over hand washing. The sermon concludes with a call to hold fast to the finished work of Christ rather than the "uncomfortable traditions" of men.

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!
All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Church Office: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-05-24 Remember His Compassion

2026-05-24 Remember His Compassion
by Pastor Chris Berg
 
Scripture Reference: Mark 6:30-56

30 The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. 33 But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.

35 By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it’s already very late. 36 Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.”

37 But he answered, “You give them something to eat.”

They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?”

38 “How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.”

When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.”

39 Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. 41 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. 42 They all ate and were satisfied, 43 and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish. 44 The number of the men who had eaten was five thousand.

45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.

47 Later that night, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. 48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 because they all saw him and were terrified.

Immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” 51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.

53 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret and anchored there. 54 As soon as they got out of the boat, people recognized Jesus. 55 They ran throughout that whole region and carried the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. 56 And wherever he went—into villages, towns or countryside—they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.

Notes, outline and a summary from this sermon are made by Pocket AI and found here:

Sermon Summary: The Compassionate Shepherd (Mark 6:30–56)

Executive Brief This teaching examines five distinct actions of Jesus in Mark 6, arguing that they are unified by a single motivation: compassion. By analyzing these events through the lens of Old Testament typology—specifically the "Sheep and Shepherd" imagery in Ezekiel and Zechariah—the sermon establishes Jesus as the promised, singular Shepherd who provides rest, teaching, and security to his people.

Key Insights

• The Five Actions:

  1. Providing a Secluded Retreat: Jesus recognizes the disciples' need to decompress after ministry, emphasizing that rest is a necessary component of mission.
  2. Teaching the Crowd: Despite seeking solitude, Jesus is moved by compassion for the people who are "sheep without a shepherd" and prioritizes their spiritual hunger.
  3. Feeding the 5,000: Jesus demonstrates his authority and identity as the promised Messiah who feeds his flock, fulfilling the covenant of peace.
  4. Calming Fear (Walking on Water): The focus is not the miracle of walking on water, but Jesus’ intervention to alleviate the disciples' terror, revealing their hardened hearts and lack of understanding regarding his identity.
  5. Healing the Desperate: Jesus responds to the desperate pleas of those in Gennesaret, demonstrating his ongoing care for the physical and spiritual needs of his own.

• Theological Thesis: The disciples' failure to understand Jesus’ authority (as seen in their astonishment at his walking on water) stems from a "hardened heart" and a failure to apply the lessons of the loaves. True biblical worldview requires active application of Scripture; without it, understanding is lost.

Nuance & Friction

• The "Hard Heart" Warning: The sermon challenges the congregation to avoid the disciples' mistake of witnessing divine power without internalizing its significance. It warns that neglecting the Word of God leads to a loss of spiritual understanding.
• Dependence vs. Dignity: A core tension identified is the human desire for dignity over dependence. The sermon argues that true spiritual health requires acknowledging our need for the Shepherd, even when it feels undignified or desperate.
• The Reality of Trials: Addressing the "ain't nothing easy" nature of life, the sermon posits that trials are not evidence of abandonment but are the crucible for character, maturity, and completeness in Christ.

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!
All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Church Office: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-05-17 Why John?

2026-05-17 Why John?
by Pastor Chris Berg
 
Scripture Reference: Mark 6:14-29

14 King Herod heard about this, for Jesus’ name had become well known. Some were saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.”
15 Others said, “He is Elijah.” And still others claimed, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago.”
16 But when Herod heard this, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised from the dead!”
17 For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married. 18 For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” 19 So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to, 20 because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him.
21 Finally the opportune time came. On his birthday Herod gave a banquet for his high officials and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. 22 When the daughter of Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask me for anything you want, and I’ll give it to you.” 23 And he promised her with an oath, “Whatever you ask I will give you, up to half my kingdom.”
24 She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” “The head of John the Baptist,” she answered.
25 At once the girl hurried in to the king with the request: “I want you to give me right now the head of John the Baptist on a platter.”
26 The king was greatly distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he did not want to refuse her. 27 So he immediately sent an executioner with orders to bring John’s head. The man went, beheaded John in the prison, 28 and brought back his head on a platter. He presented it to the girl, and she gave it to her mother. 29 On hearing of this, John’s disciples came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.


Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!

All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Office Phone: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

Sermon Notes from Pocket AI:
Sermon Structure Outline
I. Introduction: The Difficulty of the Text The sermon addresses Mark 6:14–29, a passage the speaker admits was initially difficult to approach. The challenge lies not in its interpretation or subject matter, but in its purpose: why did Mark include this specific parenthetical flashback about the death of John the Baptist? The thesis is established that all Scripture is "God-breathed" and profitable, meaning this passage exists to increase the believer's usefulness and maturity.

II. The Identity Crisis: Who is Jesus? The narrative begins with the fame of Jesus reaching Herod Antipas. The public offers three primary theories on Jesus' identity:

The Resurrected John the Baptist: Herod’s personal conviction, fueled by guilt and fear.
Elijah: Based on the prophecy in Malachi 4 regarding a forerunner before the Day of the Lord.
A Prophet of Old: A belief that the 400-year "silent period" had ended with a new prophetic voice.

III. The Flashback: The Martyrdom of John the Baptist The speaker details the "daytime TV" complexity of Herod’s household. Herod had married Herodias, his half-brother Philip’s wife. John the Baptist publicly rebuked this as unlawful (Leviticus 18, 20).

The Conflict: Herodias harbored a grudge and wanted John dead, while Herod protected him, finding his preaching "perplexing yet fascinating."
The Execution: During a drunken birthday banquet, Herodias’ daughter (Salome) pleased Herod with a dance. Bound by a rash, public oath to give her "up to half the kingdom," Herod was manipulated into beheading John to save face before his guests.
IV. The Theological Purpose: Why Mark Included the Story The speaker identifies three reasons for this narrative's inclusion:

Foreshadowing Christ: There are direct parallels between John and Jesus. Both were feared/admired by rulers (Herod/Pilate), both were killed to appease a crowd, and both had their bodies requested by disciples for burial.
Identifying the Forerunner: Jesus later confirms that John was the "Elijah" who was to come and suffer.
Preparing the Church for Persecution: The original readers (likely under Nero) needed to see that righteous living often invites worldly hatred.
V. Conclusion: The Choice of Soil The sermon concludes by contrasting Herod’s "bad soil"—treating the Word of God as mere entertainment—with the call to entrust oneself to the "Just Judge."

Key Scripture References
2 Timothy 3:15-17: The foundational claim that all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching and training in righteousness.

Mark 6:14-29: The primary text detailing Herod’s reaction to Jesus and the flashback to John’s beheading.

Leviticus 18:16 & 20:21: The moral law John used to confront Herod regarding his marriage to his brother’s wife.

Malachi 4:5-6: The prophecy regarding the return of Elijah.

1 Peter 2:23: The model of Christ, who did not revile when reviled but entrusted Himself to God.

Audience Reflection Section
The "Herod" Trap: Are you treating spiritual teaching as "interesting" or "fascinating" without allowing it to change your life? Herod liked listening to John but remained "bad soil."
The Cost of Truth: John the Baptist was beheaded for pointing out a specific sin. Are we willing to stand for the truth of God's Word even when it is socially or politically "unlawful" or unpopular?
Entrusting the Judge: When facing rejection or "persecution" in daily life, do we respond with a "nasty tongue," or do we follow the example of Christ by entrusting our reputation and safety to God?

Actionable Takeaways
Study the "Difficult" Passages: Do not skip over genealogies or uncomfortable narratives in the Bible. Approach them with the conviction that they are there to "equip you for every good work."
Practice "Scripture Before Screens": Align with the speaker’s protocol of primary preparation through prayer and the Word to avoid being "bad soil" influenced by the world's noise.
Reject Appeasement: Identify areas where you might be tempted to "save face" or appease a crowd at the expense of your convictions, as Herod did during his banquet.
Endure Rejection: Expect that a life of faith will meet friction. When reviled, consciously choose not to revile in return, but to "continue entrusting" yourself to God.

2026-05-10 Fishing Lessons

2026-05-10 Fishing Lessons
by Pastor Chris Berg
 
Scripture Reference: Mark 6:7-13

7 Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits.
8 These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.”
12 They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!

All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Office Phone: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

2026-05-03 The Mission to an Unbelieving World

2026-05-03 The Mission to an Unbelieving World
by Pastor Chris Berg

Scripture Reference: Mark 6:1-13


1  He went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. 
2  And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying,
   “Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? 
   How are such mighty works done by his hands? 
3  Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? 
   And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. 
4  And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.” 
5  And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed  them. 
6  And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching.
7  And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. 
8  He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts— 
9  but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics. 
10 And he said to them, “Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there. 
11 And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.” 
12 So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent. 
13 And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!

All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Office Phone: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

Sermon Notes from Pocket AI:

Introduction: The Nature of Rejection The sermon opens with a reflection on the fear of rejection, framing it as a common human experience. Using personal anecdotes from dating and returning to one's hometown, the speaker establishes the tension between familiarity and respect. This sets the stage for examining Jesus’ return to Nazareth, where he faced profound rejection from those who knew him best.

Main Point I: The Rejection at Nazareth (Mark 6:1-3) Jesus returns to his hometown as a rabbi, but the locals cannot reconcile his divine authority with his ordinary upbringing. They question his wisdom and miracles, not because of a lack of evidence, but because of their familiarity with his family and his former trade as a carpenter. The speaker notes that the townspeople even used insulting innuendo regarding his lineage ("Son of Mary") to undermine his legitimacy.

Main Point II: The Three Options of Christ Referencing C.S. Lewis, the speaker posits that there is no middle ground regarding Jesus. He is either a liar, a lunatic, or Lord. The people of Nazareth chose to see him as "too ordinary," effectively rejecting the Messianic claims he made in the synagogue.

Main Point III: The Limitation of Unbelief (Mark 6:5-6) A critical theological point is addressed: why Jesus "could do no mighty work there." The speaker clarifies that this was not a lack of power, but a lack of volition. Jesus was morally compelled not to perform miracles for a people committed to unbelief. His rejection served as a "reality check" for his disciples, preparing them for the resistance they would face in their own missions.

Conclusion: The Danger of Familiarity The sermon concludes with a warning to long-time believers. Just as the people of Nazareth were blinded by their proximity to Jesus, modern Christians risk becoming "dull" to the gospel through routine. The call is to maintain a "spiritual vitality" that grows deeper over time rather than becoming stale.

Key Scripture References
Mark 1:15: "The time is fulfilled. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel." (The central thesis of Jesus' message).
Mark 6:1-6: The primary narrative of Jesus’ rejection in Nazareth.
Isaiah 53:2: Prophecy regarding the Messiah having "no form or majesty" or beauty that would make him stand out.
Matthew 7:14: The warning that the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life.
Revelation 2:4-5: The warning to the church at Ephesus regarding losing their "first love."
John 8:48: An example of the religious establishment questioning Jesus' legitimacy and lineage.
Audience Reflection Section
The "Autopilot" Trap: Consider the metaphor of driving a car. Are there areas of your spiritual life where you have switched to "autopilot," losing sensitivity to the "speedometer" of Scripture and the "turn signals" of the Holy Spirit?
The Burden of Results: Reflect on the idea that Jesus "failed" to convert his hometown despite a perfect presentation. How does this change your perspective on sharing your faith with friends or family who reject the message?
Familiarity vs. Intimacy: Does your long-term knowledge of Christ make him seem more amazing today than he was ten years ago, or has he become "ordinary" in your eyes?
Actionable Takeaways
Reject Complacency: Guard against "confused faith" or satisfaction with a stagnant relationship with Christ. Commit to a deeper study of the Gospel of Mark to understand the specific "object" of faith.
Shift the Focus to Witnessing: Internalize the lesson that the conclusion of someone’s salvation is God’s work, not the believer's. Success is defined by faithful witnessing, not the percentage of "conversions."
Practice "Scripture Before Screens": Follow the discipline of grounding the day in the Word to prevent the "slow degradation" of spiritual usefulness.
Prepare for Rejection: Accept that rejection is a necessary part of the "fisher of men" reality. Use it as a prompt to rely more on the Holy Spirit rather than personal charisma or persuasive ability.

2026-04-26 Don't Fear, Only Believe

2026-04-26 Don't Fear, Only Believe
by Pastor Chris Berg

Scripture Reference: Mark 5:21-43 

21 When Jesus had again crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake, a large crowd gathered around him while he was by the lake. 22 Then one of the synagogue leaders, named Jairus, came, and when he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet. 23 He pleaded earnestly with him, “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.” 24 So Jesus went with him.

A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28 because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” 29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.

30 At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who touched my clothes?”

31 “You see the people crowding against you,” his disciples answered, “and yet you can ask, ‘Who touched me?’ ”

32 But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. 33 Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. 34 He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”

35 While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher anymore?”

36 Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”

37 He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James. 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. 39 He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” 40 But they laughed at him.

After he put them all out, he took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat.

Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"
https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/

Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!

All are welcome. 

217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448
Office Phone: (985) 626-3114
Sunday Service: 9:30AM
Adult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AM
Nursery and Children's church available.

AI notes from Pocket:

Sermon Structure Outline

I. Introduction: The Sandwich Structure

The teaching explores Mark 5:21-43, utilizing a literary "sandwich" structure. This technique frames the story of the hemorrhaging woman within the narrative of Jairus and his dying daughter. The two accounts are inextricably linked to illustrate a singular lesson on the nature of faith versus fear.

II. The Outer Layer: Jairus’ Desperation

Jairus, a synagogue leader, approaches Jesus in a state of crisis. His daughter is at the point of death. His faith is characterized by urgency and a specific request for physical touch ("lay your hands on her"). Jesus agrees to go, but the journey is immediately interrupted.

III. The Center: The Hemorrhaging Woman

A woman suffering for 12 years—physically, financially, and socially—seeks healing in secret. 

• The Mixed Faith: She believes touching Jesus’ garment is sufficient, bordering on a superstitious view of his clothing.

• The Public Correction: Jesus refuses to let the healing remain private. He calls her out not to embarrass her, but to correct her "confused faith." He clarifies that it was not the garment, but her faith in Him that made her whole.

IV. The Resolution: From Fear to Belief

The delay caused by the woman leads to the news that Jairus’ daughter has died. Jesus provides the core thesis of the message: "Do not fear, only believe." He enters the home, excludes the mourning crowd, and raises the girl, demonstrating absolute authority over death and timing.

Key Scripture References

• Mark 5:21-43: The primary text covering Jairus’ daughter and the hemorrhaging woman.

• Mark 1:15: The call to repent and believe the gospel.

• Mark 11:22: The command to "Have faith in God," emphasizing the correct object of faith.

• Hebrews 11:1: The definition of faith as the assurance of things hoped for and conviction of things not seen.

Audience Reflection Section

• The Object of Faith: Is your faith placed in "faith itself," or in a specific religious tradition, or is it placed squarely in the finished work of Christ?

• Superstition vs. Trust: Do you treat spiritual practices as "charms" to ensure a good outcome (like the woman touching the hem), or do you trust the Person of Jesus regardless of the immediate circumstances?

• The Problem of Delay: How do you respond when Jesus seems "interrupted" or delayed in answering your crisis? Can you maintain belief when the situation moves from "critical" to "too late"?

Actionable Takeaways

• Audit Your Traditions: Identify if any personal or church traditions have become "sacraments" or superstitions that you rely on more than Christ Himself.

• Choose Faith Over Fear: In moments of crisis, consciously replace the physiological response of fear with the theological commitment to trust Jesus' timing.

• Clarify the Gospel: Move beyond "platitudes" (e.g., "Jesus in your heart") to a specific understanding of the Gospel: Christ’s death for sin and His resurrection as the victory over death.

• Community Engagement: Note the upcoming Men’s Bible Study (Romans) and the Men’s Breakfast to foster grounded theological community