Timeless sermons that still inspire today

In this episode of Great Sermons of the Restoration Movement, we revisit a message Jeff Walling delivered at the 2006 North American Christian Convention. A powerful sermon on Ephesians 4, Walling argued that real change doesn’t come from guilt or legalism, but from being overwhelmed by God’s grace. He shared personal stories of church conflict, forgiveness, and learning humility, then called believers to move beyond simply being “nice” toward genuine brotherhood. The night ended with a strong plea for reconciliation, compassion, and unity across differences, all rooted in Jesus’ love and sacrifice.

Preaching at the Lincoln Christian College alumni reunion on March 14, 1985, Ben Merold opened 2 Timothy 1:3-7 to challenge believers toward fearless, Spirit-empowered living. Drawing on Paul’s charge to Timothy, Merold unpacked three divine gifts: a spirit of power that transforms lives, a spirit of love rooted in commitment rather than feeling, and a spirit of self-discipline — what he called a “smiling mind” — that steadies the soul against fear, panic, and passion. With characteristic warmth and humor, Merold called his audience away from timidity and toward bold, obedient faith.

The 2006 North American Christian Convention saw acapella churches of Christ and instrumental Independent Christian Churches coming together on the 100th anniversary of the schism that divided the Restoration Movement. At the time Dave Stone had just transitioned to become Bob Russell’s successor as the Senior Minister at Southeast Christian Church, one of the most influential churches in our movement. Dave’s topic that night was Together in Service. Preaching from Ephesians, Dave shared three benefits of serving together: unity, maturity, and testimony. This year marks 120 years since the churches of Christ and Christian Churches split. Led by Christian Standard, and organizations like Renew, continued unity efforts make this sermon by Dave Stone as timely as it was two decades ago.