Pastor

Pastor Nelson Mercado

Pastor Nelson Mercado has been serving in the KY-TN Conference since 2012. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theology and a Master of Ministry in Evangelism and Missions, both from Southern Adventist University. His first assignment was in the Murfreesboro/Tullahoma/Decherd Church district, where he served for six years.

Before becoming a pastor, he worked as a paramedic for the Philadelphia Fire Department for 11 years, serving in both paramedic and firefighter roles. He also spent four years working as a paramedic at Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga. Additionally, Pastor Mercado served in the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman.

Pastor Mercado currently serves as a chaplain for the Metro Nashville Police Department and Skyline Medical Center. He is the author of two books: "The Present Truth and the Three Angels' Messages" and "The Present Truth and the LGBTQ+ Movement: Understanding the Dangers of Affirmation While Acting Redemptively." Since 1990, he has been married to his high school sweetheart, Lucy. They have two children: Jean Luc, who is 32 years old and a Theology student at Southwestern Adventist University, and Ariana, who is 25 and a Registered Dietitian with Vanderbilt.

Pastor Mercado is passionate about evangelism and building relationships within the community.

There is Something About . . . MOM!

Nelson Mercado

May 10, 2025

"The Process of TRANSformation" Part IV

Nelson Mercado

Mar 8, 2025

While transformation is at the heart of the Gospel, a reality even for those in the LGBTQ+ community, what does that transformation look like? And is it immediate?

"A Bad TRANSaction" Part III

Nelson Mercado

Mar 1, 2025

In LGBTQ+ circles, the term "transformation" is often viewed negatively. However, transformation is central to the gospel, and it is possible for everyone struggling with sin, including those within the LGBTQ+ community, if we can just reverse our thinking.

"A Bad TRANSaction" Part II

Nelson Mercado

Feb 22, 2025

Join us for a discussion on the principles that can help us understand the complexities of the LGBTQ+ movement and its impact on families and the church. This message is based on the book "The Present Truth and the LGBTQ+ Movement: Understanding the Dangers of Affirmation while Acting Redemptively."

"A Bad TRANSaction" Part I

Nelson Mercado

Feb 8, 2025

Satan has been actively spreading a false narrative about how God created humanity. There is a saying that goes, "Repeat a lie often enough, and it becomes the truth." What is this lie, and how does it relate to the "Present Truth" Message?

Our Greatest Priority

Nelson Mercado

Jan 4, 2025

Many of us become anxious about different things in our lives, and this anxiety can often be crippling. Jesus, however, presents the solution to this anxiety, which has to do with making priorities. Our study will focus on Matthew 6:33.

Christmas Program

Nelson Mercado

Dec 21, 2024

Causing Thanksgiving

Nelson Mercado

Nov 30, 2024

While it is common to question why God permits suffering, such events offer us a chance to embody the compassion of Jesus, leading to a spirit of Thanksgiving. Let us explore this as we delve into 2 Corinthians 9:10-12.

Don't Turn Back

Nelson Mercado

Nov 16, 2024

The Apostle Paul cautions the Galatian church against reverting to the observance of the Sabbath; or, does He? What does Paul actually say, and what principles can we learn about his counsel?

The Puppet Master Part 2

Nelson Mercado

Nov 2, 2024

The media and the powers that be are manipulating our society and many in our church. This is especially true during this election season. How are we being manipulated? And, what should we be focusing on in these last days?

The Puppet Master Part 1

Nelson Mercado

Oct 26, 2024

Many individuals within the church are aligning themselves politically based on what they hear from the media as compared to interpretations of end-time prophecies. However, this raises the question of whether there is manipulation at play.

IF you remain in Me . . . THEN

Nelson Mercado

Sep 28, 2024

Following Jesus often leads to experiencing rejection and persecution. This is a tactic Satan uses in the hope that we will abandon Jesus and break our connection with Him. Nevertheless, Jesus assures us of the rewards that come from persevering and maintaining our connection with Him.

IF the World Hates You, THEN . . .

Nelson Mercado

Sep 14, 2024

Experts indicate that Christianity is the most persecuted religion globally. While persecution is undesirable, the question arises whether it should be viewed as an unexpected adversity or as an inherent consequence of following Jesus' teachings.

IF you love me THEN . . .

Nelson Mercado

Aug 31, 2024

Love is a difficult concept to define because, at least in the English language, we use the word love for just about everything. But how does Jesus define love, and how does He expect it to be shown?

If you know me . . .

Nelson Mercado

Aug 10, 2024

Is there a difference between knowing about Jesus and knowing Jesus? To know Jesus implies a relationship. So, do you know Jesus, or do you know about Jesus?

52.0 MB

Lessons from the Shrewd Steward

Nelson Mercado

Jul 20, 2024

In the parable of the shrewd steward, at first glance, it appears that Jesus is commending the steward's dishonest actions. However, the lesson is more nuanced. What can we learn from this parable that applies to us today?

58.9 MB

Our Best Weapon

Nelson Mercado

Jul 13, 2024

For many of us, our will is the hardest thing to control. That's the weak link in our strategy to change. Join us as we learn about a weapon that turns our weaknesses into power.

40.4 MB

Communion of Thanks

Nelson Mercado

Jun 22, 2024

As His arrest, conviction, and crucifixion drew near, Jesus was thankful. What can we be grateful for as we partake of communion?

14.9 MB

Ectothermic Amphibian Adventists

Nelson Mercado

Jun 8, 2024

Jesus spoke a parable about a faithful and an evil servant. One was ready for his master to return and one was not. What made the difference? Can you sense the times we are living in? Are you ready for your master to return? Join us as we explore Luke 12 and discuss a few ways to be READY.

48.8 MB

Honoring Mom

Nelson Mercado

May 11, 2024

Being a mom is an intense gig. It does not pay well, and there is little gratitude or recognition for the job. Because of this, they deserve to be honored. How can we honor our moms and mothers in general?

39.8 MB