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Chuck Smith

Chuck Smith (1927 - 2013). American pastor and founder of the Calvary Chapel movement, born in Ventura, California. After graduating from LIFE Bible College, he was ordained by the Foursquare Church and pastored several small congregations. In 1965, he took over a struggling church in Costa Mesa, California, renaming it Calvary Chapel, which grew from 25 members to a network of over 1,700 churches worldwide. Known for his accessible, verse-by-verse Bible teaching, Smith embraced the Jesus Movement in the late 1960s, ministering to hippies and fostering contemporary Christian music and informal worship. He authored numerous books, hosted the radio program "The Word for Today," and influenced modern evangelicalism with his emphasis on grace and simplicity. Married to Kay since 1947, they had four children. Smith died of lung cancer, leaving a lasting legacy through Calvary Chapel’s global reach and emphasis on biblical teaching
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Sermon Summary
Chuck Smith emphasizes the critical choice between building one's life on the solid foundation of Christ (the Rock) versus the unstable ground of worldly beliefs (sand). He warns against the dangers of a social gospel that undermines scriptural truths and encourages self-examination of one's faith and attitudes towards sound doctrine. Smith urges believers to seek a deep, loving relationship with Christ, characterized by genuine love for others and a commitment to righteousness. He highlights the importance of studying the Word and embodying the teachings of Jesus, particularly in loving others as He did.
Scriptures
Matthew 7:24
"ROCK OR SAND" I. BUILDING ON SAND. A. Much of this today. 1. Especially in social gospel. a. Those who deny scriptures. b. Those who deny deity of Christ. 2. Always detect flaws in others, examine our own foundation. a. What is my attitude towards sound doctrine? b. What is my attitude towards Sermon on the Mount? 1. Am I prone to ignore part - second mile. 2. Loving enemies, turning cheek (impossible.. c. Am I seeking only for what I can get out of Christianity? 1. Comfort, good fellowship. 2. What can I give? d. Do I love the brethren? II. BUILDING ON THE ROCK. A. Solid doctrinal foundation. 1. "Study to show ourselves approved." 2. "In thy word doth he meditate day and night." B. Seeking to be the man Christ described. 1. Hungering and thirsty after righteousness. 2. "Ask and ye shall receive." C. Loving as Christ loved. 1. Love is not just a feeling. 2. Some will try to substitute works for love .."Lord, Lord." 3. "By this sign shall men know that ye are my disciples." a. Those seeking signs today.
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Chuck Smith (1927 - 2013). American pastor and founder of the Calvary Chapel movement, born in Ventura, California. After graduating from LIFE Bible College, he was ordained by the Foursquare Church and pastored several small congregations. In 1965, he took over a struggling church in Costa Mesa, California, renaming it Calvary Chapel, which grew from 25 members to a network of over 1,700 churches worldwide. Known for his accessible, verse-by-verse Bible teaching, Smith embraced the Jesus Movement in the late 1960s, ministering to hippies and fostering contemporary Christian music and informal worship. He authored numerous books, hosted the radio program "The Word for Today," and influenced modern evangelicalism with his emphasis on grace and simplicity. Married to Kay since 1947, they had four children. Smith died of lung cancer, leaving a lasting legacy through Calvary Chapel’s global reach and emphasis on biblical teaching