This sermon emphasizes the importance of following God's pattern and order for the church, highlighting the need for zeal and spiritual fervor in carrying out God's instructions. It discusses the significance of the New Testament church pattern, the dangers of deviating from it, and the importance of holding fast to God's revealed truths despite cultural influences or personal preferences. The sermon also stresses the need for a genuine fear of God and a commitment to spiritual preparation and participation in the assembly.

This sermon delves into the clear biblical restrictions regarding the roles of men and women in the church, emphasizing the need for men to lead audibly in prayer and teaching, while women are called to be silent and focus on domestic responsibilities. The importance of following these restrictions is highlighted, along with the impact women can have through investing in children and family life.

This sermon emphasizes the significant service of women in the local church, highlighting the various roles and impactful contributions they can make. It encourages focusing on the opportunities available for service rather than limitations, drawing examples from Scripture of women who served, ministered, evangelized, and suffered faithfully. The message underscores the importance of women's involvement in hospitality, financial support, evangelism, good works, sharing the Scriptures, and worship, showcasing the profound impact they can have on the life of a local assembly.

This sermon delves into the controversial passage in 1 Corinthians 11 about head coverings, emphasizing the importance of understanding and applying God's order of headship in the church. It explores the symbolism of head coverings, the significance of angels observing church gatherings, and the need for men to lead under Christ's headship and for women to submit in accordance with God's design.

Mike Attwood discusses the Protestant Reformation, emphasizing the pivotal role of Habakkuk 2:4, 'the just shall live by faith,' in inspiring Martin Luther and shaping the Reformation from AD 1500 to 1800. He highlights the cultural rebirth during the Renaissance, the rise of nation-states, and the corruption within the Roman Church that fueled the desire for reform. Attwood recounts the significant figures of the Reformation, including John Hus, Luther, Zwingli, and Calvin, and their struggles against both Catholicism and each other. He also addresses the subsequent challenges faced by the Reformation, including the Great Ejection and the rise of higher criticism, ultimately affirming that the proclamation of the gospel remains the true answer to societal issues. The sermon concludes with a call to stand firm in faith and truth, inspired by the historical courage of reformers.

Mike Attwood discusses the period of church history from 300 to 500 AD, highlighting the doctrinal controversies and corruption within the Church as it became intertwined with the Roman Empire. He emphasizes the responses from groups like the Donatists and Augustine's controversial teachings, which led to a mixed church and the persecution of dissenters. Attwood also notes the rise of monasticism as a reaction to church corruption and the significant contributions of figures like Jerome and Nestorius. He warns against the dangers of compromising the gospel and the importance of returning to the simplicity of Scripture amidst historical complexities.

Mike Attwood emphasizes the significance of studying church history, urging believers to reflect on the past to understand their present faith. He highlights the dangers of becoming merely knowledgeable without transformation, stressing the importance of maintaining a love relationship with Jesus amidst church activities. Attwood encourages the congregation to learn from historical figures and events, recognizing that small deviations in faith can lead to significant consequences over time. He also warns against the rise of clericalism and the need for humility in leadership, reminding everyone that Christ should always hold the preeminent place in the church.

Mike Attwood discusses the early church's history, focusing on the church in Ephesus and the emergence of the clergy-laity system, which he argues undermines the biblical principle of shared leadership among elders. He emphasizes the importance of true shepherding and warns against the dangers of elevating church leaders to a status that diminishes Christ's preeminence. Attwood also highlights the persecution faced by the church in Smyrna, illustrating how suffering can lead to spiritual richness and growth, despite the challenges posed by societal pressures and false teachings. He encourages believers to live sacrificially for Christ, drawing inspiration from the martyrs of the early church who exemplified unwavering faith in the face of persecution.

Mike Attwood concludes the Church History Series by discussing the significant impact of John Wesley and John Nelson Darby on the church during the 1700s and 1800s. He emphasizes how Wesley's revivalist preaching and Darby's rediscovery of prophetic truths, including the rapture, provided hope and a new direction for a skeptical society. Attwood highlights the importance of prayer, holiness, and the need for evangelism in contemporary Christianity, urging the church to embrace its mission in a world increasingly indifferent to God. He reflects on the open door set before the church, encouraging believers to rely on God's strength in their weakness.

Mike Attwood discusses the early church in Smyrna and the significant persecutions faced during 100-300 AD, focusing on the martyrdom of Polycarp, who steadfastly refused to deny Christ even in the face of death. He highlights the dual challenges of external persecution and internal doctrinal errors, mentioning groups like the Ebionites and Marcion, who distorted Christian teachings. The sermon also covers the rise of Gnosticism and the need for a defined canon of scripture amidst these challenges, culminating in the Council of Nicaea and the influence of figures like Constantine and Augustine on the church's trajectory. Attwood emphasizes the importance of doctrinal purity and the historical context of the church's struggles against both persecution and heresy.

Mike Attwood discusses the dark ages of church history, focusing on the rise of the Catholic Church's power and the subsequent emergence of reformative movements. He highlights the introduction of doctrines like transubstantiation and purgatory, which led to widespread disillusionment among the populace, especially during events like the Black Death. Attwood emphasizes the importance of figures such as John Wycliffe and John Huss, who challenged the church's authority and laid the groundwork for the Protestant Reformation. He also notes the impact of the Great Schism and the role of universities in fostering new ideas that would eventually lead to reform. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the five solas of the Reformation, underscoring the significance of scripture and faith in Christ alone.