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Dukes Creek Baptist Church, Cleveland, GA (2026)

05/13/2026

Please read below for a recap of this weeks’s Sunday School lesson and Sermon. Please share your thoughts in the comments.

Sunday School Recap

This week’s Sunday School lesson, taught by Mark Adams, focused on 2 Kings 8 and highlighted several powerful examples of God’s provision, human responsibility, and the consequences of sin. Mark began by revisiting the account of the Shunammite woman whose land and livelihood were restored after her return from famine. Elisha’s intervention showed that God was not only concerned with her immediate need for food and shelter, but also with her future stability and restoration. Through this example, the class was reminded that God faithfully provides for His people both in the present moment and in the days ahead. The lesson then shifted to the rise of Hazael as king of Syria. When Elisha foretold both the death of the Syrian king and the terrible acts Hazael would commit against Israel, the prophet was overcome with grief. Mark emphasized the heavy burden carried by those whom God gives spiritual insight, noting that the privilege of seeing God’s purposes also comes with sorrow and responsibility. Elisha wept because he saw the destruction and suffering that would come upon God’s people, yet Hazael responded with pride rather than repentance, ultimately fulfilling the evil that had been foretold.

The lesson concluded by examining the reigns of Jehoram and Ahaziah of Judah, whose alliances and marriages into Ahab and Jezebel’s family led them deeper into sin and spiritual corruption. Mark Adams stressed how the people we join ourselves to can greatly influence our walk with God, especially in marriage and close relationships. The repeated failures of these kings illustrated how compromise and ungodly influences can bring lasting consequences not only upon individuals, but also upon future generations. In contrast, the faithfulness of David continued to bless his descendants because of God’s covenant promise. Mark encouraged the class to remember that our decisions today impact our children and grandchildren tomorrow. The lesson served as both a warning against allowing sin into our lives and an encouragement that God remains faithful to His promises.

For further study and reflection, consider reading: Psalm 37, Philippians 4:19, Joel 2:25–26, Matthew 6:25–34, Jeremiah 20:7–9, Ezekiel 3:17–19, Galatians 6:2, Hebrews 13:17

Sunday Sermon Recap- “From Eden to Eternity”

Pastor Marty’s Mother’s Day sermon centered on the story of Eve in Genesis chapter 3, reminding the church that Eve was the “mother of all living” and the beginning of every earthly family line. Reflecting on the love, sacrifice, and unseen labor of mothers, Pastor Marty shared personal stories about his own mother and grandmothers, emphasizing how faithful mothers often serve quietly without recognition. From the fall in the Garden of Eden, he explained how sorrow, struggle, and heartache entered the world because of sin. Reading from Genesis 3:14–19, he showed how God declared there would be enmity between the serpent and mankind, and that sorrow would accompany life from generation to generation. Yet even in judgment, God gave hope through the promise that the serpent’s head would one day be bruised; a prophecy pointing to Jesus Christ and His victory over sin and death. Pastor Marty reminded the congregation that every family experiences burdens, grief, and seasons of uncertainty, whether through loss, sickness, broken hearts, or the struggles of raising children in a fallen world.

The message then turned toward hope and eternal comfort through Christ. Pastor Marty reflected on the sorrow experienced by David after the death of his child in 2 Samuel 12, highlighting David’s powerful declaration: “I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.” Through this passage, the church was encouraged that believers do not sorrow without hope, because through salvation there is the promise of reunion and eternal life. He closed by pointing to Revelation 21, where God promises a day with no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain. Pastor Marty encouraged everyone to cherish their mothers, grandmothers, and loved ones while they are here, to express appreciation openly, and to remember that even through life’s sorrows, God is faithful. Though this life contains heartache because of sin, Jesus Christ has provided the promise of a better home where every tear will one day be wiped away.

For further study and reflection, consider reading: Romans 5:12–21, Psalm 127, Proverbs 31:10–31, Isaiah 66:13, 2 Samuel 12:15–23, John 16:20–22, Psalm 34 18, Revelation 21:1–5,

05/13/2026

Apologies for being late; here is the recap from the previous week- May 3rd. This week’s is coming tomorrow.

Sunday School Recap

Mark Adams taught from 2 Kings 7, where Elisha prophesied that Samaria’s famine would soon end and food would again be plentiful. Though the people had reached a desperate place, God moved ahead of them, causing the Syrian army to flee and leaving behind food, wealth, and provision. The four leprous men discovered the abundance and realized the good news was not meant to be kept to themselves.

The lesson reminded us that when God speaks, His Word will surely come to pass. Mark emphasized the danger of careless, doubtful words, especially toward the work and Word of God, as seen in the officer who mocked Elisha’s prophecy and lived to see the blessing but not partake of it.

For further study and reflection, consider reading; Psalm 33:9, Numbers 23:19, Proverbs 13:3, Proverbs 21:23, Matthew 12:36-37, Hebrews 10:23, James 3:5-10.

Sunday Sermon Recap- “Accepted Through Christ”

Pastor Marty Abernathy preached from Job 1:5, Psalm 51:17, John 6:37, and Acts 17:23-30, focusing on the truth that God does not leave us as we are, but lovingly receives us and transforms us through His grace. Using Job’s continual sacrifices for his children as an example, Pastor Marty explained that mankind cannot simply say, “That’s just who I am,” and expect acceptance before God. Instead, the Lord calls us to come with a broken spirit and contrite heart, recognizing our need for forgiveness and cleansing. He emphasized that while God receives us in our sinful condition, He does not intend to leave us there, through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, God works to cleanse, restore, and make us acceptable in His sight.

The message also warned against a modern Christianity that relies on education, formality, or worldly acceptance while neglecting the convicting power of the Holy Spirit. Pastor Marty reminded the church that true salvation and spiritual growth come only through obedience to God, faith in the blood of Christ, and surrender to the leading of the Spirit. Referencing Paul’s message on Mars Hill, he explained that God once “winked” at ignorance, but now calls all people everywhere to repentance. The service closed with an encouragement to remain tenderhearted before God, allowing His Spirit to continually shape, convict, and strengthen us for faithful Christian living.

For further study and reflection, consider reading; Isaiah 1:18, Ezekiel 36:26-27, Matthew 11:28-30, 1 Corinthians 6:11, Galatians 2:20, Titus 3:5, James 4:8-10.

05/03/2026

Please read along for a recap of last week's Sunday School lesson and sermon. Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Sunday School Recap

Mark Adams taught from 2 Kings 6, walking through three connected moments in the ministry of Elisha: the borrowed axe head that was lost and made to float, the Syrian army that surrounded the city, and the terrible famine in Samaria. In the first account, Mark reminded us that God is not only concerned with the major trials of life, but also with the smaller burdens that weigh on our hearts. The young prophet was troubled because the axe head was borrowed, and Elisha’s miracle showed that God sees even those quiet worries. In the second account, when Elisha’s servant feared the army surrounding them, God opened his eyes to see the mountain full of horses and chariots of fire. Mark connected this to the truth that God’s people are never outnumbered when the Lord is with them.

Mark also emphasized the mercy of God shown through Elisha. When the Syrian soldiers were struck with blindness and led into Samaria, the king of Israel wanted to destroy them, but Elisha told him instead to feed them and send them home. This act of kindness brought a greater victory than revenge ever could. The final portion of the chapter, describing the famine in Samaria, served as a sobering warning about how far people can fall when they lose sight of God and try to live apart from Him.

For further study and reflection, consider reading: Matthew 10:29–31, 1 Peter 5:7, Philippians 4:6–7, Isaiah 41:10, Romans 8:31, John 14:27, Amos 8:11

Sunday Sermon Recap-“Convicted, Yet Forgiven”

Pastor Marty Abernathy preached from John 8:1–11, focusing on the powerful moment when the scribes and Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery before Jesus. Their intent was not justice, but to trap Him, using the law of Moses as a weapon. The woman, clearly guilty and publicly shamed, stood in the midst of the crowd awaiting judgment. Yet Jesus responded not with haste, but with divine wisdom, declaring, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.” As conviction settled in, each accuser departed, leaving the woman alone with Christ. In that sacred moment, Jesus, who alone had the right to condemn; extended mercy instead, saying, “Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more,” revealing both the holiness and grace of God.

Pastor Marty expanded on how this passage mirrors our own lives, reminding us that all have sinned and stand guilty before a righteous God. He warned against the spirit of judgment that is so common, where people are quick to expose others’ failures while ignoring their own need for grace. At the same time, he emphasized that forgiveness is not a license to continue in sin, but a call to transformation. Even the most broken or shame-filled moments can become turning points when we come face to face with Christ.

For further study and reflection, consider reading: Romans 3:23, Ecclesiastes 7:20, 1 John 1:8, Matthew 7:1–5, 1 John 1:9, Isaiah 1:18, Micah 7:18–19.

04/24/2026

Please read below for a recap of the Sunday School lesson and sermon. Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Sunday School Recap

Mark Adams taught from 2 Kings 5, focusing on the account of Naaman’s healing from leprosy and the powerful lessons of faith, humility, and God’s grace found in this familiar passage. The lesson highlighted how God often works through unexpected people and simple acts of obedience. Special attention was given to the little maid, the young servant girl taken captive from Israel, whose faith stood as a remarkable testimony. Though far from home and living in difficult circumstances, she had seen enough of God’s power in Israel to believe the prophet Elisha could help Naaman. Her quiet confidence revealed a deep trust in the God of Israel and showed how even a seemingly small witness can become the beginning of someone else’s miracle. Mark emphasized that God often uses humble, overlooked people to accomplish His greatest purposes.

The lesson also centered on Naaman’s journey from pride to obedience, as he struggled at first with Elisha’s simple instruction to wash in the Jordan River, but was healed when he humbled himself and followed God’s word. Mark Adams reminded the class that faith often requires laying aside our own expectations and trusting God’s ways, even when they seem simple or unfamiliar. Just as the little maid pointed Naaman toward hope, believers today are called to live in such a way that others can see confidence in God through us.

For additional study and reflection consider reading; Luke 4:27, James 4:6, Proverbs 3:5–6, Matthew 17:20, John 4:46–53,v Romans 10:13–15

Sunday Sermon Recap — “Daily Bread, Daily Forgiveness”

Pastor Marty Abernathy’s message centered on the simple but powerful truth of repentance, drawing from Matthew 6:9–15 and the Lord’s Prayer. He reminded the church that while the world may be filled with uncertainty—through economic concerns, conflict, and personal trouble, there is certainty in God’s sovereignty. With heartfelt personal testimony, Pastor Marty reflected on his salvation as a young boy and emphasized that knowing Christ remains the greatest joy and best decision of his life. From that foundation, he distinguished between mere human sorrow over consequences and godly sorrow that leads to true repentance, teaching that repentance is more than feeling sorry, it is coming before God with a sincere heart and saying, “Lord, I’m sorry. Please forgive me.” He stressed that repentance is not a one-time act, but a daily necessity for every believer, just as we daily seek our “daily bread.”

In the second half of the message, Pastor Marty focused on the transforming nature of true repentance and its inseparable connection to forgiveness. Drawing from Christ’s words, “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors,” he challenged believers to release bitterness and extend forgiveness to others, reminding the church that those who seek forgiveness must also be willing to give it. Through personal stories of correction, conviction, and grace, he illustrated that genuine repentance produces change, it turns the heart and redirects the life. He also invited those who may feel the Spirit’s conviction not to overcomplicate salvation, but to respond simply and sincerely to Christ.

For additional study and reflection, consider reading: 2 Corinthians 7:10, 1 John 1:9, Luke 15:11–24, Acts 3:19, Matthew 6:14–15, Psalm 51:1–12, Luke 18:13–14, Romans 2:4

04/12/2026

Please read below for a recap of today’s Sunday School lesson and sermon. Share your thoughts and comments below.

Sunday School Recap

Mark Adams led this week’s lesson from 2 Kings 4, guiding us through a powerful series of miracles performed through the prophet Elisha. The passage opens with the widow’s oil, where a faithful woman, facing the loss of her sons to debt, turns to God in desperation. Through obedience, she gathers empty vessels, and God miraculously fills them with oil, enough not only to meet her immediate need but to provide lasting provision. The lesson then moves to the Shunammite woman, whose kindness to Elisha is met with the promise of a son. When tragedy strikes and the child dies, her unwavering faith leads her back to the man of God, where the Lord restores the child’s life. Finally, the account of the poisoned pot and the feeding of many highlights God’s ability to remove harm and multiply provision, even in times of famine. Throughout each story, Mark Adams emphasized that these were not just acts of survival, but displays of God’s abundant power.

In application, Mark Adams reminded us that faith is often revealed in moments of crisis. Like the widow, we must bring what little we have to God and trust Him to multiply it. Like the Shunammite woman, we are called to cling to faith even when circumstances seem hopeless, declaring “it is well” before we see the outcome. These miracles also serve as a reminder that our lives are a testimony; others are watching to see the presence of God in us. When we walk faithfully, we reflect His power and provision to those around us. As seen in every example, God does not merely provide enough; He provides abundantly and faithfully.

For further study and reflection, consider reading; 1 Kings 17:8–16, Philippians 4:19, Habakkuk 3:17–19, Psalm 34:19, 1 Kings 17:17–24, John 11:1–44, Mark 5:35–43, Matthew 14:13–21

Sunday Sermon Recap- “More Than Just Church”

Pastor Marty Abernathy brought a heartfelt message centered on the importance of having more than just a casual acquaintance with God, drawing from the account of the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4. He emphasized how her relationship with Elisha was not merely social or occasional, but rooted in a genuine, shared experience with God. When crisis came and her promised son died, she didn’t turn to neighbors or acquaintances, but to the man of God with whom she had a spiritual connection. Pastor Marty highlighted that true church life is not just about attendance or familiarity, but about a real, personal encounter with God, often sparked through the preaching of His Word and deepened through shared spiritual experiences.

In application, Pastor Marty Abernathy challenged the church to examine the depth of their walk with God. He reminded us that our relationship with the Lord should extend far beyond Sunday services, calling believers to daily fellowship through prayer, Scripture, and reflection. He spoke of the need for a strong spiritual connection within the church body, where burdens are shared, prayers are lifted, and lives are genuinely intertwined in Christ. Through personal testimony, he illustrated how those deep, spiritual bonds sustain us in difficult times. The message encouraged everyone to seek a closer, more consistent walk with God and with one another, reminding us that true fulfillment is found not in the world, but in a vibrant, living relationship with the Lord.

For further study and reflection, consider reading; James 4:8, Matthew 7:21–23, Philippians 3:10, Hebrews 10:24–25, Galatians 6:2, Psalm 63:1, John 15:4–5, Romans 12:4–5, 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, Proverbs 3:5–6

04/12/2026

Easter Sunday.Recap

Sunrise Service “The Empty Tomb, The Living Christ”

At the Easter sunrise service, Pastor Marty Abernathy centered the message on the resurrection account in Matthew 28:1–6, where Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to the tomb early in the morning, only to find the stone rolled away and hear the angel declare, “He is not here; for He is risen.” The sermon reflected on how easily we can fall into routines, even with meaningful traditions like sunrise services or holiday gatherings, yet God often disrupts those routines to remind us of the living reality of Christ. Pastor Marty emphasized that while many travel to Jerusalem to see where Jesus once walked, the power is not in the place, the cross, or the tomb itself, but in the risen Savior who is no longer there. Referencing the presence of the Trinity from creation, as seen in Genesis 1:2, to Christ’s resurrection and beyond, he highlighted that Jesus’ physical body is in heaven, but His presence remains active and near through the Holy Spirit.

The message then turned toward application, reminding believers that we do not have to seek Jesus in distant places because He dwells within the hearts of those who believe. Drawing from passages like John 14, Pastor Marty described the Holy Spirit as the Comforter who abides with us, comparing His presence to a fragrance that lingers even when unseen. Just as the disciples would see Jesus again after His resurrection, so too will believers one day see Him, holding onto the promise that “because I live, you shall live also.” The call was both encouraging and urgent; for those who feel distant, God can rekindle their hearts, and for those who have never believed, today is the opportunity to receive Him. The empty tomb is not just a historical truth; it is a present reality that assures us Christ is alive, near, and at work in us.

For further study and reflection consider reading; Matthew 28:5–6, John 11:25–26, 1 Peter 1:3, Colossians 1:27, Galatians 2:20, 2 Corinthians 13:5, John 14:16–17, Romans 8:11, 1 John 3:2

Sunday Sermon Recap -“The Promise of His Coming”

Pastor Marty Abernathy brought a powerful Easter message centered on Acts 1:1–11, reminding the church not only of Christ’s resurrection, but of His ascension and promised return. He walked through the reality that Jesus, after rising from the grave, showed Himself alive with “many infallible proofs” for forty days before ascending into heaven before the disciples’ eyes. As they stood gazing upward, the angels declared that this same Jesus would come again in like manner. Pastor Marty emphasized that while the disciples once looked for an earthly kingdom, Christ’s mission was far greater, offering salvation through His sacrifice and preparing an eternal home for believers. Drawing also from passages like John 14 and Mark 13, he reminded the congregation that Jesus has gone to prepare a place and will return at an appointed time known only to the Father.

The message called believers to action and readiness, urging them not to stand “gazing” as the disciples did, but to faithfully work, watch, and pray while awaiting Christ’s return. Pastor Marty stressed the urgency of salvation, reminding listeners that life is uncertain and that the Lord could return at any moment. Referencing 1 Corinthians 15, he spoke of the coming transformation when believers will be changed “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye,” receiving glorified bodies and eternal life. He encouraged the church to remain steadfast and committed to the work of the Lord, knowing their labor is not in vain. With a heartfelt invitation, he urged each person to examine their heart and be certain of their salvation, leaving the congregation with both a hopeful promise and a solemn reminder: the risen and ascended Christ is coming again, and today is the day to be ready. May we live with joyful expectation, faithfully serving until we see Him face to face.

For further study and reflection, consider reading; Acts 1:9–11, John 14:1–3, Mark 13:32–37, Matthew 24:42–44, 1 Thessalonians 4:16–18, 1 Corinthians 15:51–52, Titus 2:11–13, Hebrews 9:2

04/03/2026

Read below for a recap of last week’s Sunday School lesson and Sermon. Please share your thoughts in the comments.

Sunday School Recap

Mark Adams taught this week’s Sunday School lesson from 2 Kings 3, drawing attention to the moment when three kings, despite their power and position, found themselves helpless without God’s provision. As their journey led them into a dry place with no water, the lesson showed how quickly people can become discouraged when circumstances turn difficult. Mark Adams emphasized that this is often true in our own lives as well—we may try to face challenges with our own strength, but real help, life, and victory come only from the Lord. Through Elisha’s instruction to dig ditches in a dry valley, the class was reminded that faith sometimes means obeying God before we see any evidence of the answer.

The lesson also underscored how God works ahead of our need, sending provision in His own way and in His own time. The water He provided not only met the immediate need of the people and their animals, but also became part of His deliverance over Moab. Mark highlighted the contrast between trusting God and the tragic results of sin, showing how far people can fall when they turn from the Lord’s ways. The class was encouraged not to give in to fear, complaining, or discouragement, but instead to remain steady, prayerful, and obedient. Even when the valley seems dry and the way forward is uncertain, God is still able to provide exactly what is needed. The reminder from this lesson is both simple and encouraging: stay faithful, trust the Lord in the hard places, and remember that His help is never late.

For further study and reflection consider reading; Proverbs 3:5–6, Psalm 46:1, Isaiah 41:10, Isaiah 43:19–20, Exodus 17:6, John 4:14, Hebrews 11:1, James 2:17, Ecclesiastes 11:4

Sunday Sermon Recap
“Your Work Matters to God

Pastor Marty Abernathy preached from Philippians 1, centering on the truth that every believer has a God-given purpose and a work to do for the Lord. He reminded the church that life is more than the material things we gather or the plans we make, because in the end those things will not last. Instead, what matters most is the life we have lived for Christ and the obedience we have shown to His calling. Drawing from Paul’s words, Pastor Marty emphasized that even the hardships, burdens, and unexpected places of life can be used by God for the furtherance of the gospel. Just as Paul’s trials opened doors for his testimony, believers today are called to recognize that God can use their lives, their struggles, and their faithfulness to point others to Jesus.

The sermon also offered strong encouragement that no child of God is without value or usefulness in the kingdom. Pastor Marty spoke tenderly about how easy it is to feel unimportant, unnoticed, or discouraged, yet he reminded the congregation that somebody needs their witness, their example, and their faithfulness. Whether through testimony, prayer, church attendance, or simply living steadfastly before others, each believer helps strengthen someone else along the way. He also gave a clear gospel invitation, urging those who have never trusted Christ to be saved while there is still time, because eternity is real and this life is only the beginning. The message left the church with a simple but powerful reminder: for the Christian, to live is Christ, and every day is an opportunity to serve Him, encourage others, and walk faithfully in the work He has set before us.

For further study and reflection consider reading; Philippians 1:12–26, Ephesians 2:10, Romans 8:28, 2 Timothy 1:9, Jeremiah 29:11, Matthew 5:14–16, 1 Corinthians 15:58, Galatians 6:9, Hebrews 6:10.

03/27/2026

Read below for a recap of last week's Sunday School lesson and sermon. Share your thoughts in the comments.

Sunday School Recap

Mark Adams taught from 2 Kings 2, focusing on the closing moments of Elijah’s ministry and the beginning of Elisha’s work as God’s servant. The lesson highlighted Elijah’s faithfulness, his miraculous departure in the whirlwind, and Elisha’s steadfast devotion as he refused to leave his master’s side. Mark emphasized Elisha’s heartfelt request for a double portion of Elijah’s spirit, showing that his desire was not for earthly gain, but for a greater measure of God’s power and presence. The class also considered the miracles surrounding the parted Jordan, the healing of the bitter waters with salt, and the solemn warning found in the judgment that followed those who mocked the man of God.

The lesson reminded us that God’s power is what makes the difference in a life surrendered to Him. Mark Adams pointed out that Elisha’s example teaches us to seek spiritual blessings above worldly things, to trust what God has done without doubting His work, and to reverence the things of God with seriousness and humility. Just as the Lord used Elisha to bring healing to troubled waters, He is still able to bring cleansing, help, and restoration into the difficult places of our lives. The call for us today is to remain faithful, desire more of God’s Spirit, and walk in reverence before Him. May we be encouraged to follow the Lord closely, knowing that the same God who guided Elijah and strengthened Elisha is still faithful to lead His people today.

For further study and reflection; consider reading: Exodus 14, Joshua 3, Matthew 5:13, 1 Kings 19:19-21, 1 Kings 17:1, 2 Kings 1:9-15, Luke 9:51-56, Hebrews 11:5, James 5:17-18.

Sunday Sermon Recap
Andy Caldwell- "The Difference Jesus Makes"

Andy Caldwell delivered a heartfelt message centered on Matthew 27:35, reflecting on the crucifixion of Jesus and emphasizing that it was not the physical cross, but Christ Himself—His sacrifice and shed blood—that made the eternal difference for mankind. Using the simple illustration of an apple pie missing its main ingredient, he reminded us that just as the apples are essential to the pie, Jesus is the essential difference in every aspect of life. The sermon traced this truth through Scripture and experience, pointing to the cross as the place where sin was paid for, where grace was extended, and where lives are forever changed.

The message also called believers to examine their own lives and consider the difference Christ is making daily. Andy Caldwell spoke on how Jesus changes our worship, our responses to trials, our families, and even how we face life’s hardest moments, including sickness and death. He reminded the church that conviction, prayer, God’s Word, and faithful obedience all play a role in allowing Christ to work in and through us. In a world that is constantly changing, the Lord remains the same, and His presence brings peace in storms and purpose in every season. The challenge was clear: not only to recognize the difference Jesus makes, but to live in such a way that others can see that difference in us.

For further study and reflection, consider reading: Matthew 27:35, Luke 23:39-43, Hebrews 13:8, Acts 4:12, Mark 5:1-20, Acts 12:5-11, Romans 12:2, John 16:8, Psalm 46:1-3, 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

Dukes Creek Baptist Church

05/13/2026

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