FBC Independence Podcast
Religion & Spirituality
About
Follow along for Rev Kev’s Sermons as well as place to keep up on News and Events that pertain to FBC in Independence, MO
Episodes
- God is Up to Something: Hello Holy Spirirt
In this episode, we continue our series "God Is Up To Something!" by diving into the transition from the earthly ministry of Jesus to the birth of the early church. We explore why Jesus told His disciples it was actually to their advantage…
- God is Up To Something - What Now?
Feeling like life is a whirlwind? The early disciples felt the same way in Acts 1. The answer isn't a new plan; it’s a new perspective. God is up to something! Stop trying to be His consultant and start living in His Kingdom today. #Acts #…
- Unchanging Christ: Jesus Remains the Same
Easter is the ultimate reminder that change doesn't mean "the end." Because Jesus is alive, our hope is renewed and our future is bright. David Scott concludes our series with a powerful look at the Resurrection, proving that with a living…
- Unchanging Christ: Built on the Cornerstone
What keeps a church standing when the faces on stage change? It isn’t a personality—it’s a Foundation. This week, Mr. Dave walks us through why our church remains "firmly planted" because it is built on the only Cornerstone that matters: J…
- Unchanging Christ, Renewed Hope 3-8-26
In the wake of leadership change, it’s easy to feel uncertain about the future. In this first installment of our "Unchanging Christ" series, David Scott explores the comforting truth of Psalm 23 and John 10: The Good Shepherd is still lead…
- God Speaks through Situations
Throughout my formal ‘preacher’ education, I was privileged to take all sorts of classes; biblical studies, histories of various churches and groups, and, especially interesting, were the classes that dealt with the ethical situations one…
- God Speaks through Christ's Example 2-22-26
Several years ago, I had purchased an old pickup with engine problems; the plan was to do a quick repair and sell it, and make some profit. I read a few articles about the process, and a couple mentioned a ‘trick’ that would save me quite…
- God Speaks: God Speaks through His Written Word
I recently came across a story, told by a college professor, about an experience she had in which she believed God had clearly directed her in a specific situation. The Professor (Joan) told the story of a young woman (Sherry) in one of he…
- Purposes of the Church: Growing and Changing People
I recently had a conversation with a young minister about the ministry of a church in the area. The church was struggling to reach young people, even though they offered a variety of good, bible-centered ministries in the community. The or…
- Purposes of the Church: A Communal People
After a long, high-speed chase early one morning in March of 1991, Rodney King was dragged out of his car and severely beaten by 4 LAPD officers. His beating was a horrendous abuse of police power, and, when the videotape of the beating wa…
- Purposes of the Church: A Worshipping People
I was talking to a young man at a Christian ministers’ gathering a few weeks ago, and I asked him what position he held in the church where he served. He said he was a “worship leader.” I asked him what he meant, which seemed to throw him…
- Purposes of the Church: A Proclaiming People
The last time they were together, Jesus instructed his disciples, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. “God therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and th…
- Purposes of the Church: An Intentional People
I remember the question I asked my mother one morning, "Do we have to go to church? I was sick of going to church all the time! I had things to do: bikes to ride, pigs in the barnyard to tease, creeks to fish, and brothers and sisters to p…
- Pictures of Advent: Shepherds 12-21-25
Do you believe in miracles? ✨ This week, Pastor reflects on the supernatural origins of life. He recalls a conversation with his daughter while she was studying biology. Looking at the complexity of the "Krebs Cycle," she was breathless wi…
- Pictures of Advent: Herod
Christmas is about Jesus, the "reason for the season," but not everyone responds with joy. In this message, we look at the reaction of King Herod, who became enraged at the thought of a new "King of the Jews" and sought to destroy Him (Mat…
- Pictures of Advent: The Wise Men
I love Christmas! It is an outrageous celebration, outrageously expensive, and, without a doubt, absolutely distorted from the real ‘reason for the season.’ The truth is, many in America and around the world don’t have a clue about the rea…
- The Path to Life: An Encouraging Life 11-23-25
The old country song closes with the words, “Where seldom is heard, a discouraging word, and the skies are not cloudy all day.” Many of you will remember the song “Home on the Range,” written by Daniel Kelley and Dr. Brewster Higley back i…
- The Path to Life: Spirit-Guided Emotions
Suppose you spend a lot of time watching social media these days. In that case, you will encounter a practice and value system that is leading many to choose paths that promise to make their lives and the lives of those they love more diff…
- Evangelism: New Life in Jesus
When I was in college, studying to become a minister, I came across a Bible tract titled something along these lines: “How to witness for the wrong side.” In the picture was a smiling, John Denver look-alike young man, casually dressed. He…
- Your Life, Your Choice: The Christian and The Discipleship
Over the last few years, I’ve watched one of my granddaughters develop into a competitive distance runner – her races are often very exciting! Just as interesting to me, though, is how she ‘follows’ one of her coaches. This young woman, a…
- Our Nation’s Strength - How can I help?
I recently read an article in a Christian publication featuring a young woman in her 20s with a bright smile and confident presence. Expecting a testimony of faith, I was surprised to learn she was a successful porn star, earning over $40…
- The Church on a Mission: Go, Love, Belong
What does it truly mean to be the Church? This week, we explore our calling to Go into the world with purpose, Love like Jesus with compassion, and Belong as one united Body of Christ. Whether in our workplaces, neighborhoods, or everyday…
- God Uses People: The Apostle John
When I was a student back in ‘Preacher School,” I was having a difficult time in one of my classes, which dealt with interpreting the Old Testament. I didn’t like what the teacher was teaching. I disagreed with his interpretation of a grea…
- God Uses People: Jacob
One of my friends from my early years in school was a red-headed boy named Mike. Mike and I were pretty good friends, and we got along well – no arguments or fussing, as far as I can remember. My family was relatively mild in behavior. Dad…
- God Uses People: Abraham
People's past experiences often prepare them for meaningful roles—like George Washington's background as a surveyor preparing him to lead in battle. Similarly, biblical figures like Abraham were uniquely shaped by their lives to fulfill Go…
- The Last Words of Jesus: Father, Into Thy Hands I Commit My Spirit
Some time ago, I stumbled upon a video produced by a Christian organization about Easter. Rather than a serious-minded drama depicting Jesus on the cross, or Roman soldiers mocking Jesus and gambling for his garment as he hung in the backg…
- The Last words of Jesus: It is Finished
Have you ever considered the question, "What is God's will for my life?" That is a serious question! When I was in college at a Christian school, this was the 'hot topic' for many of the sermons we heard during group Chapel. Preachers woul…
- The Last Words of Jesus: Woman, behold your son
In one of His final moments on the cross, Jesus speaks powerful words found in John 19:26-27—words that show His deep love, compassion, and purpose. Join us as we explore how Jesus remembered His mother, cared for her, and honored her, eve…
- The Last Words of Jesus: Today, you will be with me
I grew up in a large family, where I was number 5 out of 6; the youngest was my little sister, a pretty, quiet little blonde who went through a several-year period of frailty and illness, which she eventually outgrew. Interestingly, due to…
- The Lat Words of Jesus: Father, Forgive Them
I recently read through an online discussion regarding God's forgiveness. The format was simple: The question posed was: According to Christianity, will criminals like rapists, serial killers, and school shooters go to Heaven if they ask G…
- Nothing But the Blood
I often think of one of my favorite hymns, that goes like this: What can wash away my sin?" with a refrain, "Nothing but the blood of Jesus." The song is simple yet profound in its meaning—the blood of Jesus, shed on the cross, is God's wa…
- Evangelism: A Chance to Follow Jesus
It is sometimes hard to follow Jesus! In the book of Acts in the Bible, we find a record of events in the early Church. One story, found in chapter 16, tells of an episode in the life of Paul the Apostle and his associate Silas. These two…
- The Power of Giving: Giving Unites Us
Several years ago, I was getting ready to attend a musical concert at the church where I served as pastor; I and many others were really looking forward to it, as we got a famous guitarist to come and perform, along with his band. It was g…
- The Power of Giving: Giving Heals Others
I recently heard a story of a young couple who began to feel that their well-funded, organized, all-American lifestyle was starting to feel empty and meaningless. So, they decided to have children, which ultimately didn't work out, as they…
- The Power of Giving: Giving Heals Us
As I sit in my office, I notice models of cars and motorcycles, along with a few gift books and knick-knacks lining the shelf. Each of these items holds memories for me, collected over my 45 years of ministry. The goofiest gift—and the one…
- The 3:16s of the Bible: Say Yes to God's Call
When I first began preaching over 45 years ago, I began performing weddings for various couples in my community. I would meet with the couples, plan the wedding, and usually offer a couple of counseling sessions. I would teach them about h…
- The 3:16's of the Bible: Another Start
Some time ago, I called a credit card company multiple times regarding an unexplained charge on my credit card bill. I left several messages, and when I finally got through to a human being, I could not understand the service agent due to…
- Deacon Ordination: Lyle Hornaday and The 3:16s of the Bible: God's Call for Justice
Years ago, I heard a ruckus in the basement of our home – my young daughters were at it again! "It's not fair!" One said, "Yet, it is fair," said the other. This went on for some time. I eventually went downstairs and tried to calm them do…
- The 3:16s of the Bible
Years ago, my dad was driving us through the Ozarks while on vacation, looking for "cheap gas." Back in those days, (the mid-1960s), there were often so-called 'gas wars,' where competing gas stations would try to lure in customers from ot…
- Van Wey Family Update and The Incarnation: The Who
An update from Rob Van Wey on his missionary work with Soldiers in North Carolina. "For God so loved the world." One of the most familiar passages out of the Christian Bible, this passage is always appropriate! In creation, "For God so lov…
- The Incarnation: The Why
Last week, we began a series on The Incarnation of Jesus. We pondered an answer to the question, "What is the Incarnation," and learned that the act of God the Son, coming in human flesh, was the simplest way to understand the Incarnation.…
- The Incarnation: The What
"With." A simple term, really. A word that can truly 'make a difference' in one's life or a specific situation. Here are a few examples: "Will you come with me?" "May I come with you?" Or, perhaps, "It would mean so much to me if you would…
- Again and Again with Special Guests Speaker Brian Forman
Guest Speaker: Brian Forman "Again and Again," Mark 1:9-15 Brian serves on the Senior Leadership Team at CBF, helping to coordinate congregational ministries. Brian lives in Raleigh, North Carolina, with his wife, Denise, and they have two…
- The 3:16s of the Bible: The Gift of Love
Good morning, FBC! It's an honor to be filling in for Pastor Kevin while he's taking a well deserved week off. Since this morning is our Operation Christmas Child Celebration Sunday, I thought I'd extend Rev Kev's 3:16s of the Bible sermon…
- 3:16 of the Bible: I Hear You!
The book of Exodus, the second book in the Bible, is the story of how God rescued the Hebrew people from slavery in Egypt. This powerful narrative of liberation and faith is at the core of our ministry's mission, inspiring us to bring hope…
- Relationships: The Damage is Done
Several years I was conducting a wedding for a young couple in the church where I served as pastor. I met with them a couple of times to plan the ceremony and discuss the issues, and all seemed well. Both were Christian, young, and in love…
- Finding Your Place: Get Up, and Get Busy!
Not too long ago, I watched a TV program focusing on the use of what are called 'service robots,' which are becoming commonly used worldwide; it was a fascinating program. One of the 'robots' that was very popular was the 'robot dog,' whic…
- Finiding Your Place: Live with Integrity and Conviction
While in high school, I got into a huge argument with one of my good friends; we almost came to blows! We finally calmed ourselves down and ended up laughing at ourselves due to the nature of the argument. Our big blow-out resulted from a…
- Finding Your Place: Look to God as Your Source of Courage & Strength
I recently attended a cross-country track meet so that I could cheer on my teenage daughter, who is well on her way to becoming a successful athlete. In a cross-country meet, the parents and families of the runners stand at different parts…
- Finding Your Place: God in the Details of Your Life
Years ago, as a student at a Baptist college, I heard a sermon that seemed so right – but was absolutely wrong! The speaker said something like this: "If you have sin in your life, God won't be able to use you; He will just use someone els…