The Power of Persuasion

Not every voice that sounds spiritual comes from God.

In The Power of Persuasion, Pastor Steve teaches from Galatians 5:8–9 that persuasion itself isn’t evil, but its source determines its impact. Paul warns the Galatians that “this persuasion did not come from Him who calls you,” exposing how false teachers within the church were using influence to pull believers away from grace and back under law.

Through this message, Pastor Pettis reveals how subtle influences, whether from culture, personality, or pride, can contaminate the church just like “a little leaven leavens the whole lump.” Using Scripture from 2 Timothy 4:1–2, 1 Corinthians 4:1–2, and Matthew 16, he calls the church to discernment, faithfulness, and devotion to God’s Word above all else.

This sermon challenges believers to:

Guard their hearts from worldly persuasion.

Recognize the difference between faithfulness and performance.

Stand firm on Scripture, not opinion or culture.

Follow Christ alone, the only true way to the Father.

In a world filled with persuasive voices and spiritual counterfeits, this message is a powerful reminder that the gospel of Jesus Christ remains the only truth that frees, cleanses, and sustains the church.