The church of Christ on McDermott Road

Idolatry: When Political Alliances Become Spiritual Adultery

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 02:30:02 GMT

Ezekiel pictured Israel's political alliances with foreign nations as adultery; not because alliances are inherently wrong, but because Israel pursued them out of fear and ambition rather than trust in God, giving away her heart to powers that could never truly save her. The same temptation faces the church today: political alliances that promise protection, influence, or victory can quietly become a rival relationship, competing with our covenant loyalty to Christ. Idolatry rarely announces itself; it shows up disguised as pragmatism, patriotism, or self-preservation. This class will focus on recognizing when our political attachments have crossed the line into idolatry, and what it looks like to repent and return to our first love. (Ezekiel 16:23-29)

Come and See the One Who Knows You

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 20:59:02 GMT

Many assumptions are made about the Samaritan woman. People assume she was rejected by her community as a sinner. However, it is just as likely, perhaps more likely, that the woman was a victim of the men in her life. Men who used her, but never really knew her. Rather than being a sinful woman, John portrayed her as a woman of great spiritual insight. After encountering Jesus, her invitation to others was simple, “Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did.” Jesus saw her and knew her. This same invitation is valid today, come see a man who knows you and loves you. (John 4:27-42)

Citizenship: In not Of

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 15:57:34 GMT

Paul's letter to the Philippians was written to people in a Roman colony, proud of its Roman citizenship. However, Paul insisted “our citizenship is in heaven.” What does it mean to live in an earthly kingdom, but be citizen of a different kingdom? It doesn't mean withdrawing from society, but remembering our ultimate identity, hope, and allegiance belong to Christ, not to any nation, party, or flag. The tension of living “in” a nation, but not being “of” that nation is what keeps Christians from either total assimilation or total isolation. This class will focus on what it looks like to hold our earthly citizenship loosely because we hold our heavenly citizenship first. (Philippians 3:17-21)

Come & See the Son of God

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 15:57:27 GMT

Who is Jesus, really? The first disciples all had questions, and even objections, about the identity of Jesus. Rather than being argued into faith, they were simply invited to “Come and see.” Through their encounters with Jesus, they all came to believe that he really is the Son of God. This chapter is both an invitation to us, as well as a commission. We are all invited to “come and see,” and then commissioned to invite others. (John 1:35-41)

Politics: What it is and Why We Should Care

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 01:00:55 GMT

At its most basic, politics is about how people living together in a society govern behavior and share resources. There is no way to have community or civilization without politics. Every society must have a political philosophy and system. Unfortunately, human politics always reflect human sin and corruption. Every philosophy and system is flawed. The Good News is, Jesus Christ is Lord. That itself is a political claim, but it also introduces the challenge of living with one foot in the kingdom of God and the other in the world. This first class will focus on the fact that we should care about politics because we love our neighbors.(Leviticus 19:1-18)

Words that Hurt, Words that Heal

Sun, 30 Aug 2026 06:52:33 GMT

James closed his letter with instructions about words. Don't swear oaths; let your yes be yes. When you suffer, pray. When you're cheerful, sing. When you're sick, call the elders. Confess your sins to one another, because the prayer of a righteous person has great power. Our words can wound, but James shows a better way. Words of honesty, prayer, and confession can heal, and can even bring a wanderer home. (James 5:12-20)

Sermon Slides

Psalm 103 | Bless the Lord, O My Soul

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 14:51:43 GMT

In the final lesson of our Summer in the Psalms series, Tyler Windon explores Psalm 103 and David’s call to “Bless the Lord, O my soul.” He reflects on God’s mercy, grace, forgiveness, and steadfast love, and challenges us to respond with wholehearted worship in every circumstance. Worship is more than what happens when we gather together. It is using our gifts, opportunities, work, relationships, and everyday lives to honor God and invite others to know him.

The Trouble with a Big Mouth

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 06:52:33 GMT

James quoted the confident talk of merchants: “Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town, do business, and make a profit.” They spoke as if they controlled the future, but James reminded them their lives were a mist that appears for a little while and vanishes. We make the same speeches about our plans and careers. Humble people say, “If the Lord wills,” and mean it. (James 4:13-17)

Sermon Slides

Psalm 95 | Let Us Sing Songs of Praise

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 04:32:13 GMT

In this engaging study of Psalm 95, Scott Stewart reveals how genuine worship extends far beyond singing praise to encompass an everyday posture of wholehearted trust and obedience. Drawing on the rich imagery of God as both the majestic Creator holding the mountain peaks and the gentle Shepherd caring for His flock, Scott highlights the critical turning point of the psalm: the urgent call to hear God's voice rather than hardening our hearts in fear and rebellion as Israel did at Meribah. By examining the biblical Hebrew concept of shama—where true listening is inseparable from faithful obedience—we are challenged to dismantle modern idols of distraction, surrender the anxious pressure of self-reliance, and yield to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, we are invited to unite our songs of praise with lives of active devotion, experiencing the deep peace of knowing God is God, we are not, and we are securely held under His watchful care.

Out of Both Sides of Your Mouth

Sun, 16 Aug 2026 01:53:05 GMT

James said the tongue is like a bit in a horse's mouth, a ship's rudder, and a spark that sets a forest on fire. His readers blessed God in worship and then cursed people made in God's likeness. He pointed out that fresh water and salt water cannot flow from the same spring. We recognize the problem; our Sunday words and our everyday words often sound like two different people.

SERMON SLIDES

Psalm 91 | My Refuge & My Fortress

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 13:00:20 GMT

In this lesson, Steve Farmer walks through Psalm 91 line-by-line to unpack what it truly means to make God our refuge (a safe, intimate shelter) and our fortress (an invincible defense). Drawing on his military background and powerful personal experiences, he emphasizes that God’s protection requires a continuous, daily relationship—dwelling closely in the shadow of the Almighty rather than treating faith as a Sunday/Wednesday routine.

Don't Tell Me, Show Me

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 13:39:13 GMT

(James 2:14-26) James imagined a believer who saw a brother without clothes or food and said, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” but did nothing. He called that faith dead. Even the demons believe God is one, and they shudder. Abraham and Rahab were counted righteous because their faith acted. It is easy to confuse agreeing with God for trusting God. Faith that saves is faith that moves.

Religion Thats All Talk

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 14:12:03 GMT

James told his readers to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, because human anger does not produce the righteousness of God. When the word confronted them, their instinct was to talk back and defend themselves. James called them to close their mouths and open their hearts, receiving the implanted word with meekness. But receiving it is not enough; those who hear the word without doing it are like a man who looked in a mirror and immediately forgot his own face. (James 1:19-27)

The Law Rebuilds Commitment to God

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 01:16:30 GMT

The walls were finished, the covenant was renewed, and the people celebrated with genuine joy. However, after Nehemiah left, everything fell apart again. Levites were not being paid, the Sabbath was being broken, and men had married foreign wives again. When Nehemiah returned, he called down curses, beat people, and pulled out their hair. It is a sad ending to a story that started with so much hope. That’s why it’s so important to remember Ezra and Nehemiah are not the end of the story. These books point us forward to the true conclusion of the story, the cross and resurrection. The end of these books remind us that even when things seem to be over, God is still working to bring redemption.

Nehemiah Rebuilds the Wall

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 14:56:59 GMT

Nehemiah was a courageous leader, who successfully led the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. However, he often became furious with the Jewish people for their sin. He cared deeply about accomplishing God’s will, but he was not patient or gentle when the people fell short. Like Nehemiah, we often try to force people to do what is right, but many refuse to budge. Even though people continue to be stubborn and rebellious, we now have what Nehemiah didn’t have. Jesus has come and given us all that we need to be patient, gentle, and kind, as we wait for God to fulfill his promises.

Ezra Rebuilds the People

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 07:23:13 GMT

Ezra was a priest and biblical scholar. He arrived in Jerusalem to teach the Law and reform the people. However, the people had intermarried with the surrounding nations, blurring the very identity that was supposed to make them a witness to the world. Ezra’s response was grief and anger. He tore his clothes, pulled hair from his head and beard, and sat in stunned silence for hours before collapsing in prayer. His “solution,” breaking up mixed families, should make us all uncomfortable. This story raises important questions about how we try to fix what sin has broken. Thankfully, Jesus gives us a better way than trying to fix it ourselves.

(Ezra 7-10)

Psalm 27 | The Lord is My Light and My Salvation

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 20:16:24 GMT

Danny Bingham explores Psalm 27 to reveal how we can find hope and courage when facing life's most difficult seasons. Drawing a powerful historical parallel to the desperate circumstances of the 101st Airborne during World War II, Danny illustrates how God serves as our ultimate light, salvation, and unshakable stronghold when we feel completely surrounded by stress or anxiety. By examining King David’s personal blueprint for navigating crises, which involves placing a confident trust in God, desiring a deeper daily communion with Him, and boldly crying out for His grace, we are challenged to patiently wait on the Lord and replace our earthly fears with the profound, lasting peace promised in Jesus Christ.

Zerubbabel Rebuilds the Temple

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 07:17:59 GMT

The returning exiles came home full of hope, but the reality was brutal. The land was ravaged, neighbors were hostile, and the temple project came to a complete stop for many years. The people lost heart and focused on their own houses while God's house sat in ruins. God had to send Haggai and Zechariah to convince the people to resume the work. This is a story like each of our stories, filled with moments of fear, discouragement, apathy, and stress. However, through it all, God's purposes do not fail. We must have the courage to press on in faith. (Ezra 1-6)

Zerubbabel Rebuilds the Temple

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 07:17:59 GMT

Psalm 23 | The Lord is My Shepherd

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 20:26:30 GMT

This week in our Summer in the Psalms series, Jarrod Pettit explores the timeless comfort of Psalm 23, reminding us that while life will inevitably lead us through difficult valleys, we never have to walk through those seasons alone. Through this lesson, Jarrod shares a personal testimony of finding comfort and strength through the prayers of our church family during a time of uncertainty, illustrating how our Great Shepherd is faithfully present in our deepest moments of fear. He explores how God uses our trials and weaknesses not as meaningless burdens, but as purposeful opportunities to cultivate a deeper, childlike dependence on Him and to display Christ's strength and patience to the world around us. Ultimately, we are challenged to keep walking steadily through our valleys rather than stopping in them, trusting that our Shepherd is always with us, and asking how God might use our hardest seasons to draw us closer to Him and encourage others along the way.

What Do You See?

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 12:25:25 GMT

Guest speaker Chase Turner, President and CEO of Herald of Truth Ministries, challenges us to see the Bible not merely as a collection of rules, but as the unified story of Jesus. From the Garden of Eden to the Tree of Life in Revelation, Chase traces God's plan to dwell with His people and calls Christians to live as citizens of God's kingdom today.

Drawing from the Sermon on the Mount, he reminds us that following Jesus is about more than seeking a future destination. It is about adopting the lifestyle of Jesus now: slowing down, caring for others, pursuing God's kingdom, and sharing the greatest story ever told with the world. Thank you for worshiping with the church of Christ on McDermott Road. We pray this message encourages you to know Jesus more deeply and to live faithfully for Him. Matthew 6:33

Psalm 19 | The Law of the Lord is Perfect

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 21:37:50 GMT

Dale Lollar continues our Summer in the Psalms series reminding us that while God is the all-powerful Creator whose glory is loudly proclaimed across the heavens without a single spoken word, He is also a deeply personal God who desires to revive, guide, and protect our hearts through His perfect Word.

Through this lesson, Dale highlights the character of God as David shifts from using El (the God of creation) to Yahweh (our personal, covenant Lord). He explores how David’s life as a shepherd allowed him to meditate on both the majesty of the night sky and the supreme value of Scripture, which surpasses all material wealth. Ultimately, we are challenged to live in humble surrender before King Jesus, praying that the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts are always acceptable to our Rock and our Redeemer.

When You Mess Up

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 01:39:51 GMT

We all mess up. Parents fail their children. Spouses hurt each other. We lose our tempers, say things we regret, and make decisions we wish we could take back. The question is not whether we will fail as family members, but what we will do when we do. John’s letter offers both a sober diagnosis—“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves”— and a glorious remedy: God is “faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” This Father’s Day, we honor fathers who are willing to humble themselves, confess their failures, and model the kind of grace-filled living that makes families strong. (1 John 1:5-10)

Psalm 16 | You Will Not Abandon My Soul

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:31:32 GMT

In this message from our Summer in the Psalms series, Cole Ford breaks down the timeless blueprint for stability found in Psalm 16. Walking section-by-section through King David's ancient words, Cole bridges the Old Testament text with the ultimate hope of the New Testament to reveal how believers can build a life that will not be shaken. Through personal stories about his family, he demonstrates that God is our ultimate refuge, our true inheritance, and our preservation against worldly decay. Ultimately, Cole points to the resurrection of Jesus Christ to remind us that because the victory over death has already been won, we can daily choose to set the Lord before us and experience a secure, unshakable faith filled with fullness of joy.

When Someone Says You’re Wrong

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 01:15:49 GMT

Few things are harder than being told we’re wrong—especially by someone close to us. In family relationships, criticism and correction can quickly become sources of conflict. Peter’s instruction addresses the dynamics of difficult relationships: responding with a gentle and quiet spirit, winning others over without words, and trusting in God rather than relying on our own defensiveness. When someone says we’re wrong, our natural instinct is to fight back or shut down. But the Gospel calls us to a better way—one that prioritizes peace and reflects the character of Jesus. (1 Peter 3:1-7)

Psalm 8 | How Majestic is Your Name

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 21:57:43 GMT

Charlie Lewis continues our Summer in the Psalms series with a lesson from Psalm 8, “How Majestic Is Your Name.” He reminds us that while God is the all-powerful Creator who set His glory above the heavens, He is also deeply mindful of humanity and chooses to reveal His supreme power through the humble and weak. Through this lesson, Charlie breaks down the character of God as both Elohim (the mighty Creator) and Adonai (our personal Lord and Master). He explores how King David prophetically pointed forward to King Jesus, who now reigns in heaven with all authority placed under His feet. Ultimately, we are challenged to honor God's majestic name daily by saturating ourselves in His Word, singing His praises, and actively lifting up and encouraging those around us.

When Change Disrupts Your Life

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 01:11:05 GMT

Change is one of life’s few guarantees. Whether it’s a move, a new job, a health diagnosis, a child leaving home, or any number of other transitions, change can leave us feeling disoriented and afraid. But Christians are people who live by faith, not by sight. Faith means trusting that God is at work even in the midst of disruption. God’s character does not change. His love does not waver. His purposes do not fail. Listen for encouragement that no matter what changes we face, God remains our solid foundation.

Psalm 1 | The Way of the Righteous and the Wicked

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 20:35:02 GMT

Ryan Himes begins our Summer in the Psalms series with a lesson from Psalm 1, “The Way of the Righteous and the Wicked.” He reminds us that while we carefully plan for work, family, finances, health, and the future, we also need a spiritual plan. Psalm 1 presents two paths: the righteous way, rooted in God’s Word, and the wicked way, which leads to destruction. Through this lesson, Ryan encourages us not just to read Scripture, but to meditate on it, apply it, and let it shape our lives. The righteous are described as a tree planted by streams of water: rooted, fruitful, and sustained by God.

When There’s Sin in the Family

Sat, 30 May 2026 01:07:36 GMT

Nothing is more distressing than sin within a family. Conflict, betrayal, and unresolved tension can tear relationships apart. Jesus gave His disciples a practical, grace-filled process for addressing sin within the community of faith. This process reflects God’s heart: He wants reconciliation, not separation. He wants his family to be characterized by forgiveness and restoration. When we follow Jesus’ instructions—rather than reacting in fear, outrage, and panic—even the most painful family conflicts can become opportunities for God’s grace to do its most powerful work. (Matthew 18:15-20)

When Stress is Overwhelming

Sun, 24 May 2026 01:57:59 GMT

Stress is a universal experience, and family life can be one of its greatest sources. Bills pile up, schedules become impossible, relationships strain, and we find ourselves running on empty. Paul’s instruction to “not be anxious about anything” is not a command to pretend problems don’t exist, it’s an invitation to bring every problem to God in prayer. When we do, God promises something remarkable: a peace that “surpasses all understanding.” It doesn’t make sense given the circumstances. But it is real, and it is available to every one of us. (Philippians 4:4-9)

When Promises are Broken

Sun, 17 May 2026 09:46:38 GMT

Promises get broken by parents, spouses, friends, children, governments, and institutions. The disappointment of broken promises can shake our faith, breed bitterness, and leave us feeling abandoned. Psalm 146 reminds us that while human beings are unreliable, God is not. He “keeps faith forever.” Every promise he has ever made, he will keep. As we celebrate the spiritual milestones of our kindergarteners today, we are reminded that the most important foundation we can give the next generation is trust in the God who never breaks his promises. (Psalm 146)

When Plans Fall Apart

Sun, 10 May 2026 09:30:15 GMT

Plans fall apart. Crops fail. Jobs are lost. Relationships break down. Families face hardships no one saw coming. Habakkuk came to realize life does not always go according to plan. Yet, in one of the most powerful statements of faith in all of Scripture, he chose to rejoice in God anyway—not because things always go well, but because God is still God even when they don’t. This Mother’s Day, we honor mothers who have faced the unexpected with faith rather than fear, and we remind every family that because God is our strength, we can face any circumstance with calm assurance. (Scripture: Habakkuk 3:17-19)

Missions Sunday - Changing Eternity

Sun, 03 May 2026 09:30:49 GMT

Eeternity is real, our opportunity is now, and the mission of Jesus belongs to all of us. In Luke 16, the story of the rich man and Lazarus shows the contrast between the way people live in this life and the eternal realities that follow. Through Christ, God offers eternal life instead of eternal destruction, and Jesus calls His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. As God’s fellow workers, we may plant or water, but we trust God to give the growth. We are not just attending church for a few hours each week; we are the church every day, joining the mission of Jesus to help change eternity for others. (Scripture: Romans 10:13-16)

Store Up God's Word in Your Heart

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 09:30:54 GMT

God’s word —his instructions, rules, and wisdom—should be stored up in our hearts. Jesus is the ultimate example of someone who embodied the word of God, who had the word stored up inside of him. Like Jesus, we should also embody the word. This doesn’t mean just learning facts about Bible stories, but applying the truths of Scripture to our lives, so that we become more like Jesus. (Scripture: Psalm 119:9-16)

Committed in the Hope of Resurrection

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 09:25:50 GMT

1 Corinthians 15 is Paul’s response to the claim that God will not raise the dead from their graves. Many people in the ancient world (and in today’s world) mocked that idea. However, Paul used the resurrection of Jesus to prove that resurrection has already begun. What God did for Jesus, he will do for us. Our resurrection bodies will be “spiritual,” but this does not mean ethereal or non-physical. It means they will be a product of the Spirit’s creation, rather than a product of natural procreation. Since we know for a fact that our bodies will be transformed into immortal Spirit-created bodies, we should be fearlessly abounding in the work of the Lord, making sure that we don’t do anything to compromise our inheritance of the world to come. (Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:50-58)

Confident of Being with the Lord

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 07:30:29 GMT

One of the few things the New Testament says about where Christians go when we die is that we will be “with the Lord.” In the disembodied state of death, we will apparently be with the Lord in the heavenly paradise. Even though this is not our final state, it should give us an incredible amount of confidence and courage, knowing we will be with the Lord when we die. However, it should also make us consider if we are truly walking by faith while we are still in this body. (Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:1-10)

Courageous Because of the Empty Tomb

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 09:30:35 GMT

Other tombs were temporarily emptied, when people were raised from the dead. However, death eventually took each resurrected person back to the grave. Until Jesus, it seemed that death eventually won against everyone. Jesus, however, completely conquered death. He was raised never to die again. Because of his sinlessness, death had no claim on him. This Easter, we will talk about how death no longer has power of us, because we are in Christ. Therefore, we can be Christ’s fearless disciples, mocking death’s powerlessness over us. (Scripture: John 20:24-31)

The Spirit of Slavery vs. The Spirit of Adoption

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 09:30:36 GMT

Fear and the flesh go hand in hand. Those who live according to the flesh—according to earthly markers of status, belonging, and righteousness—are slaves of fear. For the first-century Jew, that may have meant circumcision and dietary restrictions. For the first-century Greek or Roman, that might have meant wealth and honor. In the twenty-first century world, there are plenty of spirits of slavery, but we have been liberated from them all. Because we have received the Spirit of adoption, we can live fearlessly and faithfully. We don’t need the testimony of the flesh to say we are enough, because the Holy Spirit testifies we are God’s children.(Scripture: Romans 8:12-17)

What is Your Role and Responsibility?

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:30:45 GMT

The long-term vision of McDermott Road is to “present everyone mature in Christ” and our daily mission is, “helping people become more like Jesus.” So, what are you doing to support that vision and mission? What is your personal role and responsibility within the body of Christ? How are you becoming more like Jesus? How are you helping your brothers and sisters become more like Jesus? How are you helping the world know about Jesus, so they can also become more like him? (Scripture: Romans 12:1-8)

What are the Dangers and Obstacles?

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 09:25:22 GMT

If our mission is to become more like Jesus and help others do the same, we must familiarize ourselves with some of the spiritual dangers and obstacles to receiving and obeying the message of Christ. In his parable of the sower, Jesus explains three different enemies that keep a person from reaching fruitful maturity in Christ. What are we doing personally and collectively to guard against, and overcome, these dangers? (Scripture: Matthew 13:18-23)

What is Our Plan and Strategy?

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 09:30:30 GMT

Our plan for “helping people become more like Jesus” is to prioritize faith, hope, and love; as well as practice spiritual training, support, and service. This is the path of discipleship that has been practiced for 2,000 years. So, when someone commits themselves to partnering with McDermott Road in gospel work, we encourage them to share in these New Testament priorities and practices. (Scripture: Ephesians 4:11-16)

What is Our Vision and Mission?

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 09:30:51 GMT

Like the apostle Paul, our vision is to, “present everyone mature in Christ.” In other words, we want as many people as possible to know, follow, and become like Jesus. We strive to make sure everything we do—from our Sunday morning worship to our youth group games—supports this goal. We exist to encourage and model spiritual transformation. (Scripture: Colossians 1:24-29)

Called to More Outreach

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 09:30:00 GMT

The church in Antioch was a special kind of church. It was the kind of church we want to be. It was the kind of place where, “a great many people” believed, were added to the Lord, and were taught. These new believers were from various ethnic backgrounds and nationalities. What they had in common was their devotion to Jesus. They were reaching out so much to the community and becoming so well-known that the community created a nickname for them, “Christians.” If our community created a nickname for us, what would it be? Would they known us well enough to call us anything at all? The same Lord who called the Antioch disciples to reach their community is calling us to do more to reach our community. (Scripture: Acts 11:19-26)

Called to More Service

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 09:30:26 GMT

Luke records an amazing phrase about the church in Jerusalem, “There was not a needy person among them.” Through generosity and self-giving love, they made sure everyone’s needs were met. People sold houses and land in order to feed and clothe others. The ministries we are doing today are an attempt to carry on this tradition. We are trying to meet people’s needs for food and clothing, but also counseling, family support, learning English, and so much more. We believe the Lord is calling us to deeper generosity and even more service, until there is not a needy person among us. (Scripture: Acts 4:32-37)

Called to More Connection

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 09:30:55 GMT

When they were walking in the Spirit, the first-century church was truly a family. Luke wrote that they “had all things in common.” Which means they shared nearly everything, their homes, money, food, and lives. They were not devoted to their own individual pursuits, but to their common goal and mission. In many ways, our church building is a “common house.” It is a house we share with one another, to connect with each other and share our lives with one another. In order for us to make room in this house for our growing family, we must learn from the early Christians. (Scripture: Acts 2:42-47)

Called to More Growth

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 09:30:47 GMT

The book of Acts is a book of constant motion and constant growth. Individuals grew more and more like Jesus, congregations grew in number, and the boundaries of God’s global kingdom grew. The Holy Spirit was the One bringing this growth, empowering the church to take the message about Jesus “to the ends of the earth.” The Lord is still calling Christians to more growth. He is calling each of us to continue growing in the strength of the Spirit, to continue growing our influence in the community, and to continue growing the boundaries of the global kingdom. (Scripture: Acts 1:6-11)

Fight the Good Fight, Finish the Race, Keep the Faith

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 09:30:54 GMT

Following Jesus is not for the faint of heart. Paul compares it to fighting a fight and a running race. He tells Timothy he will need to be sober-minded, endure suffering, and work hard. This difficult calling is not just for apostles and preachers, but every follower of Jesus. That said, Paul also makes it abundantly clear that it is worth it. The King will reward those who remain faithful. So, what does your race and your fight look like? What does McDermott Road’s race look like? Let’s fearlessly and faithfully fulfill our ministry. (Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:1-8)

Continue in What You Have Learned

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 09:30:38 GMT

Paul’s positivity was about faith in Jesus, not about naive optimism. Paul was no fool and was under no illusions about the state of the world. He knew people were going “from bad to worse.” However, he wanted Timothy to remain encouraged and persevere faithfully and fearlessly. All around the world we can find reasons to get discouraged and give up or we can find examples to follow, people who are continuing to be the disciples Jesus has called them to be. This weekend our building is filled with missionaries who both need encouragement in their mission, but can also provide encouragement, inspiration, and examples for us to follow. (Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:10-17)

The Word of God is Not Bound

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 09:20:06 GMT

When Paul wrote this letter, he was in prison. Likely, this was his second Roman imprisonment. He was bound with chains and waiting to be executed. He had every earthly reason to be pessimistic about the future. It would have been easy to believe the Good News would never successfully spread throughout he world and people would never accept the idea that Jesus is King. However, in spite of his circumstances, Paul was incredibly positive about the future. He knew that he might be bound, but “the word of God is not bound!” Nothing was going to stop God’s plans from succeeding. Are we that confident, as those who are being called to carry on the Christian mission in this place at this time? (Scripture: 2 Timothy 2:1-13)

God Did Not Give Us a Spirit of Fear

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 09:30:12 GMT

As we start a new year and consider all the unknowns that lie ahead, it’s natural to feel afraid or anxious. We might even be tempted to begin the year timidly. However, in 2 Timothy 1 Paul encouraged Timothy to be fearless and faithful, embracing the spirit of love and self-control that has been given to all of us by Christ. Like Timothy, we need to be reminded of who we are and what we have in Christ. Our Savior, King Jesus, has “abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” What could we accomplish this year—or even this week—if we believed that truth? (Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:3-14)

Found Without Spot or Blemish

Sun, 28 Dec 2025 09:30:28 GMT

Peter’s conclusion to his final letter will be our conclusion to a year of thinking about our salvation, purification, sanctification, and justification. God’s mercy and patience—along with his coming judgment—should cause us to ask ourselves, “What sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness?” Are we living the lives we were saved to live? Are we living lives of holiness and godliness? As we wrap up one year and head into the next, let’s reflect soberly on the lives we have been living, are living, and should be living. (Scripture: 2 Peter 3:14-18)

Saved to Know Peace

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 09:30:59 GMT

When Jesus was born, “a multitude of the heavenly host” announced the Good News to shepherds, saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased.” This announcement changed the world. Nothing could ever be the same again. Heaven and earth had come together in a whole new way. The Son of God had become one of us. Of course, there are still things that bother, worry, and stress us, but we must remember to see everything through the lens of the incarnation. (Scripture: Luke 2:8-14)

Saved to Share the Gospel of Peace

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 09:30:45 GMT

During the Christmas season it is not uncommon to walk into a store or turn on a movie and hear the Good News about Jesus being proclaimed in song. Everywhere we turn, we hear “tidings of comfort and joy.” What an amazing blessing that is to hear our Savior’s story being sung in the public square! However, for saved people, we should be carrying this Good News of peace to our neighbors, classmates, and co-workers all year round. We were saved to be the messengers, proclaimers, and heralds of this Good News of peace. The peace the whole world is seeking can be found in Christ. We must be faithful in sharing it with the world! (Scripture: Isaiah 52:7-10)

Saved to Make Peace

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 09:30:07 GMT

One of the major themes of the Bible is “peace” (shalom). We love the idea of peace and we want peace. However, left to our own devices, we all have a tendency to destroy peace and create chaos and conflict. Thankfully, the work of Jesus brings true peace into the world, a peace that passes understanding. Saved people get to enjoy and experience this peace, but there’s more to it than that. We are not just saved from chaos, but saved for making peace. When the Spirit of God lives in our sanctified bodies, he gives us a peace-making wisdom. (Scripture: James 3:13-18)

I Will Praise Your Name Forever

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 09:30:05 GMT

Every generation of God’s people has handed the baton of praise to the next. We have picked up the baton from our parents’ and grandparents’ generation. There is an unbroken song of worship and adoration that goes back to the beginning of time. Now, it is our turn to praise God and teach our children to praise him. One reason we have been saved is so that we can spend our lives teaching the next generation how good God is. One of the best things we can do for the next generation is meditate on God’s goodness and share his goodness with them. (Scripture: Psalm 145:1-9)

Declare His Glory Among the Nations

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 09:30:27 GMT

To “glorify God” or do something “to his glory,” means spreading God’s fame and good reputation in the world. Praise should be evangelistic. Praise should wake people up to the fact that God is better than their idols. We sing and speak about God’s goodness and faithfulness, because the world needs to hear how good God is. One of the best ways to reach your friends and family who don’t believe is refuse to be quiet about the things God has done, is doing, and will do. (Scripture: Psalm 96:1-13)

Particpants - Every Member Ministry

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 20:08:20 GMT

Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-16

My Mouth is Filled with Your Praise

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 09:30:20 GMT

We praise God in anticipation of his protection and salvation. Because we can look back and see all the great things God has done, we can learn his character and trust his steadfast love. Praise helps bring us peace, because we are exercising our trust and reminding ourselves of what God has done for his people, for his Son, and for us personally. (Scripture: Psalm 71:1-8)

Treasure: You Cannot Serve Two Masters

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 20:12:40 GMT

Scripture: Matthew 6:19-24

Those Who Love Your Salvation

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 09:30:28 GMT

When we think of what it means to be “saved,” we often think about “forgiveness.” However, we have tried to emphasize this year that salvation is about so much more than forgiveness. When God saves us, he rescues us from danger and humiliation, restoring our dignity and honor. What God did for David, he more fully and completely did for Jesus, and will do for us. So, we continually say, “Great is the Lord!” because we love his salvation, the way he rescues and restores his royal subjects. (Scripture: Psalm 40:11-17)

Known By Name

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 20:15:35 GMT

The Helper

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 09:30:00 GMT

We will examine Jesus' guidance to the disciples regarding the gift of The Spirit. For the disciple, a purposeful life is a Spirit-filled life. We will consider the role of The Spirit in our lives and ways this passage can serve as a guide for reflection on our discipleship. (Scripture: John 14:15-17)

Gifted: Stewards of God's Grace

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 20:05:15 GMT

Scripture: 1 Peter 4:7-11

Do Justice, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly with Your God

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 09:30:18 GMT

Religious people with wealth and power have often fallen into the trap of believing they could exploit the poor and vulnerable for their own profit, while keeping God happy through religious rituals. This was the situation during the days of Micah. The people of Israel were warned to repent and told that God was coming in judgment. However, there are also promises of deliverance through the coming Messiah. For those of us who have been rescued by the Messiah Micah announced, we ought to be even more committed to doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with our God. After all, we have seen God’s promises (and threats) be fulfilled. (Scripture: Micah 6:6-8)

Eldership: Stewards of God's Household

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 20:05:30 GMT

Scripture: Titus 1:5-16

A Righteous Redeemer

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 09:30:39 GMT

In the book of Ruth, we get to see justice and righteousness in the flesh. This is not a book of dry teachings about caring for widows, immigrants, and the poor in the abstract. This is the story of actual righteous people who leveraged their own wealth and well-being to do justice. Ruth acted with honor, doing justice for her mother-in-law, and Boaz did justice by caring for and redeeming Ruth and Naomi. His redemption mirrors, in several ways, what God had done for Israel, what Jesus has done for the church, and what we ought to do for our neighbors. (Scripture: Ruth 2:8-13)

Apostleship: Stewards of God's Mysteries

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 20:05:08 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:1-5

Remember That You Were Slaves

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 09:30:26 GMT

The word “Deuteronomy” literally means, “Second Law.” The second generation after the Exodus from Egypt was about to enter into the Promised Land, but they needed to be reminded of the Law. They needed to be reminded who they were supposed to be and how they were supposed to live. They were reminded several times, “Remember that you were slaves in Egypt.” It had been 40 years since slavery. Some of the young adults were not even born when their parents left Egypt. However, every generation of Israel was supposed to think of themselves as former slaves, for whom justice had been done. This justice that was done for them was supposed to shape their sense of justice, how they treated others. Similarly, we must remember that we were slaves, and this should shape our sense of justice. (Scripture: Deuteronomy 15:12-15)

Workmanship: Created for Good Works

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 20:05:58 GMT

Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10

Chosen to Do Righteousness and Justice

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 09:30:33 GMT

Leading up to the destruction of Sodom, God reflected on his promises to, and partnership with, Abraham. God chose Abraham to, “Command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing righteousness and justice.” God went on to allow Abraham not only to know his plans for Sodom, but also to negotiate for their deliverance. This story can help us understand that righteousness and justice pertain both to the God’s punishment of sin, but also to God’s mercy and patience. Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of this story by taking humanity’s sins upon himself. Jesus also brings us into the story, so we can now begin to do righteousness and justice in the midst of our cities. (Scripture: Genesis 18:17-19)

Redemption: Restoring the Stewarship

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 20:05:16 GMT

Scripture: Titus 2:11-14

What is Baptism All About?

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 09:30:00 GMT

Sometimes it is confusing to hear, we are “saved by grace,” “saved through faith,” or saved by “believing,” but also told baptism saves us. The biblical authors were very clear that we are saved because Jesus died on the cross, because God is merciful and loves us, but they are also clear that we are saved when we are baptized. This is because baptism is the moment at which we declare our loyalty and allegiance to Jesus. It is the moment we identify ourselves with Jesus and his people. Therefore, we could say we are saved because of God’s grace, through repentant faith, at baptism. (Scripture: Colossians 2:8-15)

Visitation: The Day of the Lord

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 20:05:24 GMT

Scripture: Matthew 21:33-46

Do I Need to "Go to Church" to Be a Christian?

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 09:30:48 GMT

It is not uncommon for people to say they are Christians, love Jesus, read their Bibles, and pray daily, but not want any part of church or organized religion. Sometimes this is because the church has disappointed them, hurt them, or just failed to excite and motivate them. In spite of our many shortcomings, the Bible teaches the necessity of a church family. Christianity is a team sport. It’s a journey that cannot be taken alone, it must be taken together. We have an obligation to love, support, correct, and encourage each other. (Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-16)

Covenant - God's Partnership with Humans

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 20:05:22 GMT

Scripture: Leviticus 25:13-28

Why is Jesus the Only Path to God?

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 09:30:07 GMT

It is popular to think every nice, kind, and decent human being will spend eternity in heaven. However, that is not the Christian message. The Christian message is that only those who follow Jesus will be saved. Many wonder how that could be “Good News”? It sounds to some people like God is vindictive and petty. However, a doctor should not be blamed for only saving those who took the medicine; an author should not be blamed for only teaching those who read the book; and a chef should not be blamed for only feeding those who ate the food. God is in the saving business and he has made a way for everyone to be saved. He should not be blamed for those who do not accept his free gift. (Scripture: John 14:1-11)

Sin: Unfaithful Stewards (Sep. 10, 2025)

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 20:05:42 GMT

Scripture: Genesis 3, 6, & 11

How Did We Get the Bible?

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 09:30:51 GMT

We cannot expect people to believe the story the Bible tells unless the Bible is a credible witness. Our Bibles are a translation based on thousands of Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic manuscripts. Those manuscripts are not the original texts written by the author, but were copied by countless scribes. This process the Bible has undergone from writing to copying to translating and interpreting is long and somewhat complicated, but it should actually give us even greater confidence about the reliability of our modern Bibles. (Scripture: 2 Peter 1:16-21)

Creation: Created to Steward

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 20:00:03 GMT

Scripture: Genesis 2

Everyone Needs a Savior

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 09:30:13 GMT

Paul throughly understood the thinking of both the weak and the strong. Paul began his letter promoting peace by telling the Torah-observant Jews, who judged the Gentile world as wicked and sinful, they were essentially correct in their judgment. However, in condemning the Gentiles for their unrighteousness, they were also condemning themselves. The weak judged everyone for not living up to the standards of the Torah, but they did not live up to its standards either. Do we ever fall into the trap of this sort of self-righteousness? Do we ever look down our noses at others for not living up to a standard that we ourselves don’t meet? The only way to live at peace with one another is to acknowledge the truth: we all need a Savior! (Scripture: Romans 2:1-11)

Deeper Suffering

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 20:06:27 GMT

Scripture: Acts 27

Justified by Faith

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 07:30:54 GMT

Paul argued that people are justified (set right with God and put into a right relationship with him) not by observing the demands of the Torah, but by faith in Jesus. The sort of faith Paul promoted was not simply mental assent to an idea, but loyalty to Jesus as King and trust that the promises of God are being fulfilled in Christ. On this basis alone, both Jews and Greeks can be in right relationship with God. As with the rest of the letter, Paul’s motive in writing was not merely theological accuracy (as important as that is), but Christian unity. He wanted peace between Jews and Gentiles. We also need to realize that we believe about theological ideas— grace, justification, salvation, and covenant—affect how we live and treat others. (Scripture: Romans 3:21-26)

Deeper Thirst

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 20:05:40 GMT

Scripture: Exodus 15-17

The Reign of Sin and the Reign of Grace

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 09:30:20 GMT

Paul spoke of sin and death reigning like a king (like Pharaoh) and enslaving all of humanity. Through Jesus, people are liberated from the reign of sin and death. This liberation is a gift, it is by God’s grace. It isn’t Torah observance that liberates people, it is God’s grace. In Christ, we live under the reign of grace. However, many in the “weak” group seemed to push back on this idea, suspecting it meant a sinful and lawless disregard for righteous living. However, Paul argued that living under grace means we are free to live according to God’s will. Are we willing to allow ourselves, and especially others, to live under the reign of grace? Or do we try to enslave one another with new laws, because we do not trust the sanctifying work of the Spirit? (Scripture: Romans 5:18-21)

Deeper Truth

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 20:15:10 GMT

Scripture: John 4

The Sons of God are Led by the Spirit of God

Sun, 10 Aug 2025 09:30:55 GMT

The entire letter of Romans revolves around the issue of the Law. However, the question isn’t as simple as, “Should Christians observe the Law of Moses?” If a Christian wanted to observe the Law, they were more than welcome to do so. The question was more like, “How can those who observe the Law and those who don’t observe the Law live together as one unified family?” The Torah-observant Jews needed to learn that the Law was good, but the Law didn’t make someone a child of God. The only way to become a child of God is to receive the Spirit of God. Whoever has the Spirit of God—regardless of their ethnicity, culture, or relationship with the Law—is a child of God. We must also recognize the Spirit in other believers, even if we don’t share their culture or some of their conclusions. (Scripture: Romans 8:1-11)

Deeper Faith

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 20:05:27 GMT

Scripture: Matthew 14:22-33

Chosen by Grace

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 09:30:31 GMT

The Torah-observing group, the “weak” Christians in Rome, put a lot of stock in the idea that they were God’s chosen people. They likely perceived things like circumcision, dietary restrictions, and observance of holy days as indicators that a person was part of the chosen people. However, Paul wrote that not all Torah-observing Jews were actually children of Abraham. The true children of Abraham are those who receive God’s gracious gift of covenant membership the way Abraham received it, as a promise received by faith. This seemed incredibly unfair to those who could not believe God would give covenant membership to Gentiles over their unbelieving Jewish relatives. It’s easy to scoff at this ethnocentrism, but do we often show preference to those who share our culture, over those who share our faith? (Scripture: Romans 11:1-5)

Deeper Calling

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 20:15:56 GMT

Scripture: Luke 5:1-11

Our Bodies and the Body of Christ

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 09:30:21 GMT

If Paul’s primary goal in his letter to the Romans is peace between Jewish and Greek believers, what does he mean when he instructs them to present their bodies as a living sacrifice? It helps to notice what he says immediately following, they are all members of “one body in Christ.” Both the strong and the weak will understand God’s will for their lives only when they offer themselves fully to God, using everything at their disposal for the common good of the Christian community. The same is true for us, if we want to understand God’s will. (Scripture: Romans 12:1-8)

Deeper Repentance

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 20:15:26 GMT

Scripture: Psalm 51

Holy People in a Hostile World

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 09:30:37 GMT

What does it look like to “live peaceably with all”? Paul gives various instructions to the Roman Christians about how to be at peace within the church community, as well as within society at large. These instructions would likely be received differently depending on a person’s social position. For instance, it would likely be the strong and powerful Christians who really needed to be told to, “Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” The weak and powerless Christians, on the other hand, might especially need to hear, “Repay no one evil for evil.” The bottom line, for all Christians, is to “Love your neighbor as yourself,” that is how we all live peaceably with both believers and unbelievers. (Scripture: Romans 12:14-21)

Deeper Grace

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 20:05:22 GMT

Scripture: Jonah

Reconciling the Weak and the Strong

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 09:30:27 GMT

From the beginning of Romans, there is plenty that applies to the way the “weak” judged others, and the way the “strong” despised others. However, it is not until Romans 14 that we really understand the identities of the weak and strong. This knowledge helps us understand the basis of their divisions and the heart of Paul’s appeal for peace and reconciliation. This context will set the stage for the rest of the series, but will also shed light on our own cultural biases and how those with power and understanding still have an obligation to “bear with” the weaknesses of our brothers and sisters. (Scripture: Romans 15:1-7)

Deeper Submission

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 20:09:38 GMT

Scripture: 2 Kings 5

The Churches of Christ in Rome

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 09:25:51 GMT

In the last chapter of Romans there is a long list of names. They probably don’t mean much to most us, but they are actually the whole point of this letter. When combined with an understanding of how Claudius kicked the Jews out of Rome, these names help us understand the cultural context of Romans. Some of the Christians were Jews, some were Greeks, some were probably slaves, and some were wealthy homeowners. Paul instructs his audience to, “greet” each other. Finally, Paul’s appeal in Romans 16:17-20 and his doxology in verses 25-27 help us understand—and participate in—the peace God brings by grace. (Scripture: Romans 11:1-5)

Deeper Memory

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 20:05:30 GMT

Scripture: Joshua 3-4

An Appetite for Jesus

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 09:25:41 GMT

Authentic Christians will do whatever it takes to stir up an appetite for intimacy with Jesus. (Scripture: Psalm 34:1-14)

Deeper Joy

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 20:05:57 GMT

Scripture: John 21

A Brush with Greatness

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 09:30:16 GMT

Scripture: Mark 5:30-34

Deeper Deliverance

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 20:05:55 GMT

Scripture: Exodus 14

Holiness and Consecrated Living

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 12:00:19 GMT

One of the primary reasons Israel was supposed to love and care for their neighbors was because they were God’s holy representatives. Their generosity towards the poor, their honesty, their justice, and their forgiveness were supposed to represent God’s holy character to the world. As followers of Jesus, we are filled with God’s Holy Spirit. Therefore, our lives and our homes should be beacons of holiness and love. The world should be able to recognize a Christian home by a family’s love for their neighbors; by their generosity, honesty, justice, and forgiveness. (Scripture: Leviticus 19:9-18)

Deeper Obedience

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 20:15:57 GMT

Scripture: Genesis 6

Holiness in a World Full of Idols

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 09:30:08 GMT

The modern world has as many idols as the ancient world, they are just a little more insidious. An idol is not just something we treat as more important than God. God has never been interested in simply being our favorite God, he wants to be our ONLY God. We must make sure we don’t worship God on Sunday, then go home and worship something else the rest of the week. Christian homes should be places of worship, where God alone is worshiped all week long.. (Scripture: Leviticus 19:4)

Deeper Awe

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 20:05:35 GMT

Clarence Ross, Jr.

Scripture: Genesis 1

In the opening message of our Summer Series, Clarence Ross Jr. reminded us that God is not limited by time, space, or circumstance. Drawing from Genesis 1 and Daniel 3, he encouraged us to trust in a God who brings order from chaos—not by force, but by speaking. When life feels overwhelming or uncertain, the same God who created the world with a word can still speak into our lives today. Whether you're facing discouragement, waiting on answers, or wondering how your story will turn out, the message is clear: keep reading—God’s not finished yet.

Holiness and Respecting Your Parents

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 12:00:59 GMT

As many commentaries have remarked on this passage, “Holiness begins in the home.” When Israel was commanded to be holy, the first instruction was for children to revere their parents. This idea is not only echoed in the New Testament, it is infused with even greater meaning “in Christ.” When we listen to, learn from, honor, obey, submit to, respect, and care for our parents, it is a way of engaging in holy service to Christ. (Scripture: Leviticus 19:1-3)

Holiness and Intimacy

Sun, 25 May 2025 09:30:07 GMT

Sexual immorality has always been a sin with very serious consequences; it defiles everyone involved and makes them unclean. Additionally, under the Law of Moses, even the lawful intimacy of a husband and wife made them temporarily unclean. In Christ, our bodies have been purchased and have become the temple of God. This makes sexual sin even more serious, gives married intimacy a whole new meaning, and allows singleness for Christ to become a priestly vocation. (Scripture: Ephesians 5:25-33)

Holiness in the Midst of Caring for the Sick

Sun, 18 May 2025 09:30:58 GMT

Under the Law of Moses, if a person came into contact with bodily discharges or skin diseases, that person was unclean and unable to participate in tabernacle worship until they had been purified. They had not sinned by touching the sick, but they were no longer holy. Jesus, on the other hand, is incorruptibly holy. He touched the sick and rather than being defiled, he healed, cleansed, and purified those he touched. Now, because of Christ and like Christ, we can care for the sick without being defiled. In him, our help is holy work. (Scripture: Luke 5:12-16)

Holiness in the Midst of Messy Motherhood

Sun, 11 May 2025 09:30:59 GMT

A Christian woman is a holy priest. When she gives birth to a baby, she is (especially in the ancient world) risking her health and her life for the sake of another. She is coming in close contact with mortality (Leviticus 12), but Jesus has defeated and removed ceremonial impurity. So now, a woman can be in the midst of motherhood, both in giving birth and parenting her children, and remain as pure and holy as she was when she came up out of the water of baptism. She serves as a priest, even in the midst of the mess. (Scripture: Proverbs 23:22-25)

Exile: Seeing the World Through the New Creation Lens

Sun, 04 May 2025 09:30:48 GMT

The new creation has arrived and we are part of it in Christ. Therefore, we need to learn to see the present world as a place where we don’t belong, because it is passing away. This world around us is a dying and decaying place, filled with mixed-up priorities and empty promises. When we see the world through a new creation lens, we see that we are aliens and exiles here. (Scripture: 1 Peter 4:1-5)

Masterpiece: Seeing Ourselves Through the New Creation Lens

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 09:30:00 GMT

When a person believes the Good News and is born again by the water and Spirit, they become part of the new creation. In a sense, they’ve already been resurrected and are living as a bit and piece of the new creation right in the middle of the old creation. The new creation life is evident through Spirit-empowered good works. When we see ourselves, we need to see ourselves through this new creation lens, believing that we are truly God’s new creation masterpiece. (Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10)

Firstfruits: The Resurrection and the New Creation Lens

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 09:30:48 GMT

Scripture is that a new heavens and new earth is coming. God will raise the dead and bring about the renewal of all things. Many of the first-century Jews believed this promise and were waiting for this day. However, what they didn’t seem to expect is for the new creation to break out right in the middle of the present creation. That’s what happened on the Sunday morning when Jesus rose, the new creation began. Now that the new creation has arrived, it changes everything for those who believe it. (Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:20-28)

People Are Worth Saving

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 12:00:28 GMT

As surprising as it might be to us, the Creator of the Universe loves humans. He created us to co-rule with him over creation, to be his images in the world. So, when he sent his Son to become a human and die to rescue humanity, it makes sense within the overall story. Therefore, if God values human beings this much, how should we think of ourselves and other people? Shouldn’t we see in one another the image of God? You will never see anything more glorious or wonderful than every single human being you encounter. (Scripture: Psalm 8)

A People of Purpose

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 09:30:01 GMT

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:13-16)

Comfort and Strength for Good Works and Words

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 09:20:18 GMT

Paul expressed his gratitude for what God had done in the lives of the Thessalonians. He saved them, not just in what they are saved from, but in what they are saved to become. Paul prayed for “our Lord Jesus Christ, and God our Father,” to continue strengthening these Christians. God doesn’t just expect people to do good through their own strength and will. He sanctifies through the Spirit, strengthening and encouraging our hearts, so that we become people whose works and words are good and glorifying to him. (Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17)

Worthy of the Kingdom of God

Sun, 23 Mar 2025 09:20:51 GMT

In his second letter, Paul praised the Thessalonians for their steadfastness “in all [their] persecutions and in the afflictions that [they were] enduring.” Paul said their suffering was making them, “worthy of the kingdom of God.” Suffering is an important part of the process of sanctification. Of course, none of us relish suffering, but if we desire to be worthy of the kingdom, then we ought to “consider it all joy” when we suffer, because it can shape us into kingdom people. (Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 1:3-5)

Holiness and Hope in a Broken World

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 09:30:36 GMT

The Thessalonians were surrounded by unbelievers who gave their bodies over to “the passion of lust.” They lived their lives in the darkness. But Paul told the Christians that God’s will for them was their “sanctification,” telling them to “control [their] own body in holiness and honor.” They were to live as, “children of light, children of day.” Even though the world around us is in darkness, we are to be living and walking in the light of Jesus’ second coming. When he comes, we will welcome him with joy, because we are anxiously awaiting his arrival. (Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11)

Standing Fast in the Lord

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 09:30:29 GMT

After Paul was run out of town, he was concerned about the Thessalonians church: Had they been taught enough? Would they persevere through trials and persecution? Would they remain faithful? Finally, Paul received word from Timothy that the church was in deed “standing fast in the Lord.” Paul prayed that they would continue to do so, “so that [they would] be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.”

Turning to God from Idols

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 09:20:20 GMT

When Paul preached in Thessalonica, not everyone believed. A mob was formed, a riot broke out, and the city was thrown into turmoil. In spite of this “severe suffering,” those who believed, “became a model” to believers in other areas. Paul commended these Christians for turning “to God from idols to serve the living and true God.” In this first lesson, we will explore how the church in Thessalonica can continue to be “a model” on how to live as sanctified people, as we “wait for [God’s] Son from heaven.” (Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 1:8-10)

Missions Sunday 2025

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 09:30:46 GMT

Scripture: Romans 10:14-17

Lives of Holiness and Godliness

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 09:30:43 GMT

Being saved, cleansed, purified, and sanctified means we have no need to fear the Second Coming of Jesus. In fact, we ought to long for that day and pray that it comes quickly. Furthermore, knowing that day is coming should completely change the way we live our lives. As Peter says, “Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness…” (2 Peter 3:11). What does a holy and godly life look like and how does the promise of “new heavens and a new earth” motivate that sort of lifestyle? (Scripture: 2 Peter 2:17-3:13)

Confirm Your Calling and Election

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 09:30:15 GMT

Being God’s chosen, elect, and called people is not a passive identity. It is an identity we must live into. Peter tells his audience to “be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election.” In other words, we need to live in such a way that proves or demonstrates we are God’s sanctified people. We do this by practicing the qualities Peter lays out in this chapter. (Scripture: 2 Peter 3:1-11)

Submitting to Our Shepherds

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 09:30:01 GMT

Most modern Westerners think very individualistically, even about our spirituality. When it comes to the church, we tend to think of the church in the same category as a business at which we are customers, an organization to which we are donors, or an establishment in which we have a membership in order to receive goods and services. We have to drastically change this way of thinking. We have to learn to think of the church as our family. One aspect of being in the church is having elders/shepherds to whom we submit ourselves as they teach and equip us to live sanctified lives. (Scripture: 1 Peter 5:6-11)

The Sort of Shepherds We Need

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 09:30:01 GMT

Followers of Jesus are like a flock of sheep in need of good shepherds. Peter described how the elders were to shepherd in such a way that they would please Jesus, “the chief Shepherd.” McDermott Road members will soon begin recommending men to serve as additional elders of our congregation. These men should have the sort of character Peter describes, men who will join alongside the current elders as “examples to the flock.” (Scripture: 1 Peter 5:1-5)

Saved to Suffer, Serve, and Steward God’s Grace

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 09:30:20 GMT

Followers of Jesus are called to bless, do good, pursue peace, and show hospitality, using whatever gifts we’ve been given to serve one another. This is what it looks like to live a saved life; but a saved life is not always a safe life. Sometimes Christians must follow Jesus’ example by suffering while doing good. Whether we travel to foreign countries or help people in our own neighborhoods, we must be willing to go wherever we’re called and steward the gifts that God has given us. (Scripture: 1 Peter 4:7-11)

Chosen People, Royal Priesthood, Holy Nation

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 12:00:56 GMT

When Peter refers to followers of Jesus as chosen, royal, and holy he does not do so to merely make them feel good about themselves. He is helping them understand that salvation comes with a vocation. In fact, the two are inseparable. Being God’s people, priesthood, and nation is a lifestyle and a full-time job. What would it look like if we—at school, work, home, or anywhere else—considered ourselves to be priests, involved in holy service to God? What would it look like to consider every moment and every task, sacred? (Scripture: 1 Peter 2:1-10)

Be Holy, for I Am Holy

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 09:30:37 GMT

From the very first words of Peter’s letter, it is obvious that Peter wants followers of Jesus to see themselves as God’s chosen people, set apart by the “sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood.” We are saved and set apart to live a particular sort of life in the world, an “obedient” life. Peter tells his audience, “Just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.” So, what does this mean? How does Jesus expect sanctified people to live? What does it look like to “be holy” in all we do? (Scripture: 1 Peter 1:13-21)

Loyalty Without Limits

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 09:30:02 GMT

All year we have studied about loyalty, faithfulness, and allegiance to King Jesus. In this final lesson, we will consider some of Jesus’ strongest words on the sort of loyalty he is looking for in his followers. He wants a loyalty without limits. A loyalty that, by comparison, makes all of our other commitments look like “hatred.” (Scripture: Luke 14:25-33)

Hope Vindicated

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 07:30:23 GMT

The birth of Jesus is the vindication of hope. The faithful children of Abraham had been waiting for centuries for God to fulfill his promises. Of course, his promises seemed too good to be true and it had been hundreds of years since the Jewish people had returned after the exile. So, those who continued to believe the prophets seemed foolish and naive. However, as always does, he kept his word and vindicated those who loyally kept their hope in him. Followers of Jesus today find themselves in a similar period of waiting and one day our hope will be vindicated. (Scripture: Luke 1:67-80)

Hope Exercised

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 12:00:56 GMT

Hope cannot be exercised when we are comfortable and at ease. It is exercised when we are starving and famished, but are also joyfully confident that we be “satisfied as with fat and rich food.” In other words, we don’t hope for what we already have, but for what we know God will provide because of who he is and what he has promised. Hope has been trained by the ways God has delivered his people from such situations in the past that he will deliver us in the future. (Scripture: Psalm 63)

Hope Defended

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 09:30:17 GMT

Hopeful people are often attacked by the cynical, who see the hopeful as “a leaning wall” or a “tottering fence.” They scoff and say things like, “He trusts in the Lord; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!” (Psalm 22:8). If we’re not careful, we can take these cynical words to heart and believe that we are foolish for trusting in God. We can begin to put our hope in people, wealth, power, or position. Psalm 62 fortifies our hope against such assaults, reminding us, “God is my rock and my salvation.” (Scripture: Psalm 62)

Hope Defined

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 09:30:45 GMT

Hope acknowledges the present reality, appreciates what God has done, and anticipates God working in similar ways in the future. Psalm 16 is a psalm of hope. David is likely in the midst of a challenging time. However, he is confident God will rescue him from death, because of the ways God has been faithful in the past. This psalm is quoted in reference to Jesus, “You will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption” (vs. 10). Though God fulfilled this anticipation in different ways for David and Jesus, he will never abandoned his people to death. (Scripture: Psalm 16)

Gratitude Brings Peace

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 09:30:36 GMT

Nearly everyone wants to experience peace, especially the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding. We want this peace guarding our hearts and minds. However, sometimes we fail to do what Paul told the Philippians to do in order to have this peace. It begins with this command, “Rejoice.” How can, “Rejoice” be a command? How can we rejoice “always,” in every circumstance? What if we don’t feel joyful? Rejoicing, even when we don’t feel like it, is often the secret to feeling the joy and the peace we long to feel. (Philippians 4:4-9)

How to Keep False Teaching from Dividing the Church

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 20:05:46 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:1-58

Gratitude Makes You Shine Like Lights

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 09:30:30 GMT

Receiving God’s gift of salvation and “working it out” in our lives includes eliminating grumbling and disputing. When we are committed to being obedient children of God, who obey with joy an unity, we stand out like stars shining in the night sky. If we recognize that this generation is just as “crooked and twisted” as it was in the first century, then we must commit ourselves to joyful obedience. Few things will cause the church to stand out as much as a grateful life. (Scripture: Philippians 2:12-18)

One Body with Many Members

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 20:05:57 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:1-14:40

Gratitude Gives You Eyes to See

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 09:30:09 GMT

Paul wrote the book of Philippians from prison. How would you feel if you were imprisoned unjustly? Paul actually expressed gratitude for his imprisonment. This attitude of gratitude helped him to see the good things God was doing through his circumstances. If Paul was angry and bitter about his situation, he might not have seen that his persecution was able to help “advance the gospel.” When we decide to give thanks in all circumstances, it opens our eyes to the good things God is doing all around. (Scripture: Philippians 1:12-18)

When Is It No Longer the Lord’s Supper?

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 20:05:37 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:17-34

Gratitude Strengthens Your Relationships

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 09:30:15 GMT

Every Christian should be grateful for their church family. Not just grateful in their heart, but verbally express their gratitude to their brothers and sisters, and to God. Just as importantly, every Christian should demonstrate their gratitude towards their church family. Even when we’re frustrated with our church family—perhaps, especially when we’re frustrated—we should express, demonstrate, and practice gratitude. This sort of gratitude helps to cement and strengthen our relationships with one another. (Scripture: Philippians 1:3-11)

Give No Offense

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 20:05:03 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:1-10

The Revealed New Jerusalem

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 07:00:14 GMT

The new Jerusalem is called “the Bride, the wife of the Lamb.” It is a beautiful and enormous city (large enough to cover the land mass of the entire Roman Empire). It stands in direct contrast to the beastly empire and the prostitute city that have been destroyed. This is the city that will endure forever, the city of God, the holy city. Many wonder, is this city symbolic of the church or is it the city in which the church will dwell in forever? The answer is likely, yes! A city is both a place AND a group of people. We are the people of the New Jerusalem right now, but this is also the “city that is to come.” From an earthly perspective, it may seem that the church is nothing special right now (just as it did in John’s day), but someday it will be revealed that we are the citizens of the most glorious city, the eternal city. Only those who are loyal to the Lamb will live and experience that reality. (Scripture: Revelation 21:1-8)

How to Keep Opinions from Dividing the Church

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 20:10:56 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13

The Revealed Marriage Supper of the Lamb

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 09:20:18 GMT

In contrast to Babylon’s drunkenness and debauchery, a new feast is announced, “The marriage supper of the Lamb.” This is the final celebration that all of history is moving towards, the feast that will celebrate the destruction of Babylon, the victory of the Lamb, and the reconciliation of heaven and earth. Not everyone will be invited to enjoy the marriage supper of the Lamb, only those who have made themselves ready and “clothed themselves with fine linen, bright and pure.” Those who are drunk on the wine of Babylon do not understand thefollowers of the Lamb, who are preparing themselves for the true party that is to come. (Scripture: Revelation 19:1-10)

A Unified Position on Marriage and Sexuality

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 20:15:19 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:12-7:39

The Revealed Fate of Babylon

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 09:30:17 GMT

Finally, in chapter 18, an angel declares with a mighty voice, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon (a figurative name for Rome) the great!” Though John’s audience would not live to see Rome fall, they needed to know that day was coming. The city who lived like a queen, would someday experience torment and mourning. The compromisers in John’s audience needed to hear, “Come out of her, my people, lest you take part in her sins, lest you share in her plagues.” Every worldly power will someday experience the same fate. Those who give their loyalty to earthly powers will share in her sins and in her punishment. The only way to survive this fate is by following the Lamb, “wherever he goes.” (Scripture: Revelation 18:1-10)

The Shame of a Divided Church

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 20:05:12 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:1-11

The Revealed Beast

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 09:30:53 GMT

The great enemy of Revelation is the dragon, “who is called the devil and Satan.” The dragon “gave his power and his throne and his great authority” to beasts, one from the sea and one from the land. This vision reveals that the Empire is not as beautiful and glorious as it seems, it is a monster who is empowered by Satan. Those who worship the beast and give it their loyalty, in order to “buy or sell,” will suffer the wrath of God and the Lamb. Though the Roman Empire is now gone, are we still able to pull back the curtain and recognize beastly imperial power today? “Here is a call for the endurance and faith of the saints” (13:10).

How to Keep Sin from Dividing the Church

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 20:05:49 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 5:1-13

The Revealed Judgment of God

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 09:30:53 GMT

Those who are loyal to the Lamb do not have a comfortable and easy life. They are pursued, persecuted, and put to death. They cry out to God, “How long before you will judge and avenge our blood?” They are told to wait, because even more loyal followers of the Lamb would be killed. However, this entire section reveals that the world’s actions have consequences. Their sins will bring destruction, both as a natural consequence and as divine retribution. Michael Gorman says about these visions of judgement, “Their primary purpose…is not to instill fear but to provide a wake-up call for those who are sleeping, not merely through life, but through empire.” There are Christians in every generation who need to wake up and realize there are consequences to idolatry, injustice, and immorality? (Scripture: Revelation 6:1-11)

How to Keep Pride from Dividing the Church

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 20:05:19 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:1-20

The Revealed Lamb

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 09:15:59 GMT

The world thinks that a conqueror must be a lion. In order to win and be worthy, a king must devour his enemies. However, Revelation reveals that the Lion who has actually conquered has done so as a Lamb, “standing, as though it had been slain.” This is how God and his people conquer, not by slaughtering others, but by being faithful to the point of death. Death might seem like defeat, but when we see the world through the lens of Revelation, we realize that we conquer by following the slain Lamb, “wherever he goes." (Scripture: Revelation 5:1-10)

Division Destroys God’s Temple

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 20:05:47 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:1-23

The Revealed Message to the Churches

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 09:15:46 GMT

John shares seven messages from Jesus, addressed to seven representative churches in Asia Minor. These messages set the stage for the rest of the book. They reveal the struggles Christians were facing, how some were compromising the faith, and how others were being loyal to the Lamb. Pay special attention to the fact that the churches who seem to be rich are actually poor; and those who seem to be poor are actually rich. Just as first-century Christians received both reassurance and rebuke from these messages, we need to do the same. (Scripture: Revelation 2:1-7)

The 'Wisdom' of the World and the 'Foolishness' of God

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 20:15:34 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:16

The Revealed Christ

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 16:48:23 GMT

From all appearances, Caesar was running the world. He was glorious, powerful, and ruling over the kings of the world, but Caesar’s rule was a farce. Revelation reveals reality: Jesus is the actual “ruler of the kings on earth.” Jesus, “the faithful witness” and “the firstborn of the dead,” has been glorified. He is the one who died, but is “alive forevermore.” More than that, he has “the keys to Death and Hades.” Consider what it would like today to rest confidently in the knowledge that Jesus, as revealed in Revelation 1, is truly on the throne. (Scripture: Revelation 1:9-18)

No Divisions Among You

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 20:15:47 GMT

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:1-17

Loyal to One Another

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 08:00:07 GMT

The writer of Hebrews encouraged his audience not only to assemble, but to “consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” We will talk about how our new connections ministry will help us “stir up one another.” (Scripture: Hebrews 10:19-25)

Seek God

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 12:00:31 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 13

Committed to Overcoming the World

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 09:20:03 GMT

We overcome the world by faith. That is, we overcome the world by being loyal to King Jesus. Just as Jesus overcame the world through faithfulness and loyalty, so too we overcome the world through faithfulness and loyalty. We need not fear the world, we need only believe that Jesus Christ truly is the Son of God. (Scripture: 1 John 5:1-5)

Hear God

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 20:15:20 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 12

Committed to Abiding in God

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 09:20:23 GMT

God saves us and transforms, but that doesn’t mean a relationship with him is passive. We must actively abide (remain) in him. John reveals how we abide in God. He also reveals the benefits we enjoy when we are committed to maintaining an intimate relationship with God. (Scripture: 1 John 4:13-16)

Fear God

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 20:05:17 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 11

Committed to Testing the Spirits

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 09:30:11 GMT

There were false prophets in the first century, but there are also false prophets today. A prophet is anyone who claims to have a word from the Lord. They often claim to give God’s thoughts on current events. John helps us understand how to test the spirits. He gives us the confidence to vigilantly watch out for false teachers, who claim to speak on God’s behalf. (Scripture: 1 John 4:1-6)

Wait for God

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 20:15:50 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 10

Committed to Loving One Another

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 09:30:54 GMT

Love for the church is further evidence that a person is a child of God. Specifically, Christians should be committed to loving one another the way Jesus loved us, sacrificially and “in deed and in truth.” (Scripture: 1 John 3:16-18)

Implore God

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 20:10:05 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 9

Committed to Righteousness

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 09:20:37 GMT

Who we claim to be, what we claim we want, and where we claim our loyalties lie is one thing, but the truth is revealed by what we practice. John says if we are born of God, we will practice righteousness and if we are born of Satan, we will practice sin. It’s time to examine our loyalties by examining our practices. (Scripture: 1 John 2:28-29)

Serve God

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 20:05:01 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 8

Committed to Truth

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 07:30:30 GMT

Being loyal to Jesus requires maintaining a commitment to the fundamental truth about his identity. Unfortunately, John’s audience had people who were “trying to deceive” them and lie to them about Jesus. There continue to be false teachers and “antichrists” today. Which is why the church must always be deeply rooted and grounded in the truth of the Gospel. (Scripture: 1 John 2:21-25)

Trust God

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 20:15:40 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 7

Committed to Obeying His Commands

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 09:15:49 GMT

Loyalty to Jesus requires keeping his commandments, obeying his word, and walking in the same way in which he walked. This obedience is the the proof that we have really come to know him. Specifically, the commandments of Jesus are to love the brothers and not love the world. (Scripture: 1 John 2:3-6)

Share God

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 20:05:22 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 6

Committed to Fellowship

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 09:15:18 GMT

John’s first stated purpose of this letter is that his readers “may have fellowship” with him and with the Lord. Presumably, in contrast to those who had fallen away and were no longer in fellowship. Are we committed to being in fellowship with one another and with the Lord? (Scripture: 1 John 1:1-4)

Obey God

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 20:15:20 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 5

Loyal to the Apostles’ Teaching

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 09:30:04 GMT

The apostles are Jesus’ deputies, appointed to teach, instruct, and discipline followers of Jesus in “the way.” Therefore, being loyal to Jesus requires Christians to listen and follow the teachings of the apostles. What does it look like today to be committed to these teachings? (Scripture: Acts 2:42-47)

Honor God

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 20:30:16 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 4

God as our Kinsmen Redeemer

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 09:30:25 GMT

Sometimes a destitute person or family loses valuable property, freedom or even their place in the family and an inheritance. The Law provided in Leviticus 25:25, an expectation for the nearest relative of such a person or family to redeem or restore what was lost. This person was known as a Kinsmen Redeemer. As humans, we each find ourselves spiritually bankrupt, in bondage to sin and orphaned without our intended spiritual inheritance. We desperately need a Kinsmen Redeemer to redeem and restore what we’ve lost, but no human relative can help us out of our destitute spiritual condition. We have a God who was willing to become our human relative so that He could be our Kinsmen Redeemer and restore us. Praise the Lord! (Scripture: Colossians 1:15-23)

Love God

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 20:15:28 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 3

God as a Loving Father

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 20:30:57 GMT

Finally, throughout the Scriptures we are invited to see God as our Father. Not only because he brought us life, but because he loves and cares for us. When we pray, we shouldn’t pray like strangers or even like slaves, but like sons and daughters who are convinced of their fathers love and devotion to them. Again, this transforms our theology but also our parenting. When we parent our children, we have the opportunity to live out the faithfulness and loving loyalty we have learned from our heavenly Father. (Matthew 7:7-11)

Worship God

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 20:10:08 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 2

God as an Older Brother

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 09:30:07 GMT

Similar to our lesson on “God as obedient son,” this is not a metaphor, but a living reality because of the incarnation of Christ. Jesus became an older brother, not just to James, Jude, and others, but to all of his disciples. As our older brother, he acts as our kinsman redeemer, rescuing us and caring for us, assuming the role of the faithful firstborn. This not only changes the way we think about Jesus, but also about sibling relationships. Rather than acting like Cain and Able, or Jacob and Esau, we can demonstrate the faithfulness rather than rivalry. (Scripture: Hebrews 2:10-12)

Thank God

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 20:00:22 GMT

Summer Series 2024 - Lesson 1

Exploring the Connection Between Habits and Grace

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 10:15:41 GMT

A disciple is seeking to have each aspect of his or her life emulate Jesus. The journey towards Christlikeness is an expression of grace-filled intentionality. The goal of this lesson is to explore how our understanding of grace shapes our daily habits. (Scripture: Matthew 25:31-46)

God as a Devoted Spouse

Sun, 26 May 2024 09:30:31 GMT

Throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, God used the metaphor of marriage as a lens through which Israel could understand his loving commitment to them. Marriage also helped explain how God felt when Israel was unfaithful to the covenant he made with them. Hosea was a devoted husband, who was married to Gomer, a prostitute and disloyal wife. Their marriage was a picture of God’s relationship with Israel. In the New Testament, we are told that the marriage of Spirit-filled people is a picture of Christ’s relationship with the church, husband and wife living out loving loyalty. This changes the way we think about God and about marriage. (Scripture: Hosea 2:14-20)

God as an Obedient Son

Wed, 15 May 2024 09:15:19 GMT

Sonship is not just a metaphor God uses to reveal himself to us; he actually became a son to human parents. In his role as Mary and Joseph’s child, we can see what the faithfulness of God looks like when it is embodied in a son. This faithfulness and loyalty that not only obeys parents, but honors them, has no expiration date. Sons and daughters of all ages should be loyal to their parents the way Jesus was to his. Honoring our parents, regardless of their shortcomings and imperfections, is an opportunity to demonstrate the faithfulness we see in God and manifest in the life of Jesus. (Scripture: Luke 2:41-52)

God Like a Nursing Mother

Sun, 12 May 2024 07:15:25 GMT

Jerusalem accused God of forgetting her. When we are struggling, it is easy to think God no longer thinks about us or loves us. However, God replies by relating himself to a mother who has nursed her children. God says that a mother is more likely to forget her child than he is to forget his people. First, that should change the way we think about God and his relationship to us. Second, it should elevate the way we think about motherhood. For the Lord, a mother is a picture of loyalty and faithfulness. Therefore, we must gratefully serve the Lord in response to his faithfulness, as well as imitate his faithfulness and loyalty within our families. (Scripture: Isaiah 49:13-16)

Who Do You Think You Are?

Sun, 05 May 2024 11:45:39 GMT

Mission Sunday (Scripture: Acts 4:1-4)

Loyal When No One is Watching

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 09:30:19 GMT

One of the themes in Colossians is that everything we do should be done, "in the name of the Lord." In other words, everything should be done out of loyalty to King Jesus. This includes how we live when no one is watching. When there are no parents, policemen, bosses, spouses, or anyone to hold us accountable, do we recognize our accountability to Jesus? Do we live faithfully and loyally even when we think we won't be caught or found out? In many ways, who we are when no one is watching is who we really are. (Scripture: Colossians 3:18-25)

Truth #7

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 09:05:03 GMT

Finally, we will conclude this series with the truth of what Jesus will do, he will come again. When he does, the fulfillment of all of God’s promises will be complete. All of the hidden truths that Christians believe now will become manifest to everyone. The whole world will finally bow their knees to him and confess that he is Lord. All of God’s enemies will be defeated, sin and death will be no more. We must live in the present in light of this future reality. (Scripture: 1 Corinthings 15:20-28)

But God

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 09:20:08 GMT

(Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10) Sermon by Zach Roddenberry, High School Minister

Truth #6

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 09:25:46 GMT

In many ways, this sixth truth is the one around which all the other truths revolve, Jesus is Lord. You could also say he is the Christ, Messiah, or God’s anointed King. In other words, Jesus is the fully divine and fully human, who is worthy to rule and reign over God’s creation. A person cannot be a disciple of Jesus without believing and confessing the Lordship of Jesus. (Scripture: Hebrews 1:1-4)

Truth #5

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 09:25:50 GMT

On Easter Sunday, we will explore the fifth truth that Jesus did not remain dead. He did not remain in the grave. Our faithful God raised Jesus from the dead. Which was not only a victory for him, but for all of his people. The resurrection of Jesus is a foretaste of what God will do for all of his sons and daughters, and even for the whole creation. The bodily resurrection of Jesus, and the future resurrection of all of God’s people, is an essential doctrine to believe. (Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8)

Truth #4

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 09:20:43 GMT

This fourth truth may seem incidental, but it is quite significant. For three days, the son of God was dead and buried. He not only became human, not only became a servant, not only died a horrific death, but was buried in a grave like every one else. He lowered himself, humbled himself, to the lowest possible human position. He waited in the grave for three days for his Father to keep his promise. (Scripture: Colossians 1:15-20)

Truth #3

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 09:20:58 GMT

The third truth is not just about who Jesus is, but about what he did. Jesus suffered and died as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. His sacrificial death was the once-for-all sacrifice that was able to free all humanity from Satan’s hold on them. By offering himself on our behalf, he redeems, adopts, justifies, and sanctifies us. In order to be a Christian, you must believe that Jesus died for our sins in accordance with the Scripture. (Scripture: 1 Peter 2:21-25)

Truth #2

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 09:30:47 GMT

The second truth of the series is the truth of the incarnation, Jesus came in the flesh. He became fully human. He is not God, pretending to be human. He was not wearing a human costume. He became fully human. It is also important to understand that Jesus didn’t abandon his humanity when he ascended to the heavenly throne. He is able to serve as our mediator because he IS human. (Scripture: Philippians 2:5-11)

Truth #1

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 09:30:41 GMT

This first truth is expressed in several different ways, Jesus is the word, which is God, he is sent from the Father, he shared the Father’s glory from the beginning, he possesses equality with God, all the fullness of God dwells in him bodily. In other words, Jesus is God. Sadly, a recent survey revealed that 43% of American Evangelicals believe that Jesus was a great teacher, but not God. In order to be a Christian a person MUST believe in the deity of Jesus. (Scripture: John 1:1-5)

Who Can Receive the Kingdom of God?

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 09:25:33 GMT

If the kingdom—God’s uncontested rule and reign—can be received now, who can receive it and how is it received? How do we enter into God’s rule and reign? Once again, the answers Jesus gives are surprising. Jesus said we must receive the kingdom of God like a child. What does this comparison teach about the character of kingdom citizens? How can we become like little children? (Scripture: Luke 18:15-17)

When is the Kingdom of God Coming?

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 09:30:02 GMT

At different times, both the Pharisees and the disciples of Jesus asked him about the timing of God’s kingdom. When will God rule and reign over the earth without rival or rebel? After all, Jesus taught his disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come, you will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” So, people wanted to know, when will it come? The answer Jesus gave to this question was not the answer people were expecting. He said, “The kingdom of God is not coming in ways that can be observed.” He went on to say, “the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.” What does it mean that the kingdom is in our midst? Is it coming or is it here? The answer might still surprise us. (Scripture: Luke 17:20-21)

What is the Kingdom of God?

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 09:30:47 GMT

The word “kingdom” is not just another word for the church. And the kingdom of God is not referring to the place people go when they die. The kingdom is God’s uncontested rule and reign over the world. When Jesus defined the kingdom of God he did so using parables. He said the kingdom was like a grain of mustard seed or leaven hidden in flour. What do these parables teach about the kingdom of God and what is our role in the kingdom? (Scripture: Luke 13:18-21)

Loyal When You've Been Sinful

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 09:30:50 GMT

One of the most difficult portions of Hebrews 11 is the author’s mention of Gideon, Barak, Samson, and Jephthah. These were hardly exemplary religious men. They did some pretty horrible things. So, why would the Hebrew writer mention them alongside people like Abraham, Moses, and David? Perhaps it is because each of them—in spite of their sins—had moments when they did what they were called to do in spite of the odds being stacked against them. Being a person of faith is not about being perfect, but about doing what we are called to do even when the odds are stacked against us. (Scripture: Hebrews 11:31-40)

Loyal When You’re Called to Suffer

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 09:20:20 GMT

Sometimes being loving God and being loyal to him means being willing to suffer mistreatment and persecution. Moses gave up the palace to suffer with the his Hebrew brothers and sisters. He chose loyalty over luxury. When we are called to give up comfort, wealth, freedom, safety, or security for the sake of our commitment to King Jesus, are we willing to do it? Do we love Jesus enough to suffer with him and with his people? (Scripture: Hebrews 11:23-28)

Loyal When You’re Called to Sacrifice

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 09:20:34 GMT

Abraham was promised a son, a son through whom God would bring blessings to all the nations of the world. However, Abraham was told to kill that son and offer him as a sacrifice to God. Abraham’s loyalty was being tested. Would he be loyal to God, even when it seemed he would have to give up that which he most treasured? Our loyalty is rarely tested to this degree, but it is tested every day. Are we passing the test? (Scripture: Hebrews 11:17-19)

Loyal When You’re Called to a Foreign Place

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 09:15:31 GMT

The work the medical missionaries with us this Sunday are doing relates closely with our text for this Sunday, leaving home and going to a foreign place because of loyalty to God. We will talk about Abraham’s willingness to leave home and go to a foreign land simply because he was committed to YHWH. We should all share a similar loyalty, commitment, and faith. (Scripture: Hebrews 11:8-12)

Loyal When You Can't See God Working

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 09:30:17 GMT

When we read the phrase, “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen,” we often take it to mean that faith is believing in something without evidence. This is a really poor understanding of faith. The Hebrew writer is saying that faith is being unshakably committed to a God you can’t see. The Jewish Christians were tempted to return their loyalties to the temple system they could see, but the Hebrew writer is reminding them that their forefathers had been commended for their commitment to the unseen. (Scripture: Hebrews 11:1-6)

Are You Being Trained by Grace?

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 10:30:22 GMT

We will discuss how grace teaches and trains us to, “Renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.” When we truly understand God’s saving grace we are motivated to grow and be transformed. (Scripture: Titus 2:11-14)

God Consoles Those Who Patiently Wait for Him

Sun, 24 Dec 2023 10:20:09 GMT

When the infant Jesus was presented in the temple, his family met a man and a woman who had been waiting patiently for the Lord’s arrival. Simeon had been told by the Holy Spirit that would not die until he saw the Messiah. Also, Anna, an elderly prophetess, had been waiting in the temple, “Worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.” Both Simeon and Anna rejoiced when Jesus arrived, because their diligent waiting had paid off. They teach us, waiting is not a passive activity. Those who are prepared for the arrival of the Lord are actively waiting for our redeemer. (Scripture: Luke 2:22-32)

God Brings Good News to His Humble Servants

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 09:30:41 GMT

When the Lord arrived in Bethlehem, his arrival was not announced to the Sanhedrin or in Herod’s palace, it was announced in a field of shepherds. To these humble shepherds, the Lord sent an angel and a whole host of heavenly beings to announce the Good News. Throughout Jesus’ life, it was people like these shepherds who were prepared for his coming. In the same way, it will probably the ordinary, unassuming, hard-working servants of the Lord who are prepared for his second coming. (Scripture: Luke 2:8-19)

God Gives Light to Those Who Sit in the Shadow of Death

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 09:20:06 GMT

Zechariah prophesied about what would become of his son, John. He said his son would prepare the way of the Lord. The coming of the Lord would be like a “sunrise” that would “visit us from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death.” Throughout the book of Luke, those prepared for the Lord’s arrival were those who knew they needed forgiveness of sins. They repented as soon as John’s call rang forth, because they were waiting in the “shadow of death.” Similarly, those prepared for the second coming of the Lord are longing for sun to rise on this dark world. (Scripture: Luke 1:67-79)

God Scatters the Proud and Exalts the Humble

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 10:00:11 GMT

One of the most beautiful, and paradigm-shifting passages, in the Bible is Mary’s “Magnificat.” Mary rejoices that the coming of the Lord will scatter the proud, bring down the mighty, and send the rich away empty. The humble, however, are those who are prepared for the Day of the Lord. The humble will be exalted when he arrives. The book of Luke reveals how the humble were ready for Jesus’ first arrival and it will be the humble who are prepared for his second arrival as well. (Scripture: Luke 1:46-55)

Strengthened with Power Through God’s Spirit

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 09:30:56 GMT

One of the greatest gifts God has given us is the Holy Spirit. He dwells within us to strengthen us in our inner being, so that Christ can dwell in our hearts through faith. So that, being rooted and grounded in love, we may have strength to comprehend the love of Christ and be filled with all the fullness of God. That is our reality, but we should also pray for that, as Paul prays for it on behalf of the Ephesian church. Believing these truths about Jesus, believing that we really belong to God, is hard to fully accept. As strange as it may seem, we must diligently apply ourselves to accepting this truth. (Scripture: Ephesians 3:14-21)

Reconciled with God and One Another

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 09:25:18 GMT

Prior to the fall, human beings were at peace with God and with one another. When sin entered the world, humanity was exiled from God and we all began to experience hostility with one another. The Gospel is all about reconciliation and peace. Because of Jesus, Jews and Gentiles have been reconciled to God, but also reconciled to one another. God is making peace through the cross. We don’t have to create this new reality of peace and reconciliation, we just have to accept that it is ours in Christ. (Scripture: Ephesians 2:11-22)

Saved by God's Mercy, Grace and Love

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 09:30:42 GMT

“You were dead…but God…made us alive.” What an amazing way to understand the Gospel. We did not earn this resurrection from the dead. We were given life as an unmerited gift, because of who God is and what he has done for us through Christ. The concepts of God’s grace, mercy, and love should be the foundation of our theology and practice. It is grace that should motivate us to do the good works God has prepared for us to do. (Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10)

Blessed with Every Spiritual Blessing

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 10:15:59 GMT

There is so much “meat” packed into the opening verses of Ephesians. In this short passage, Paul speaks of being blessed, chosen, holy, blameless, predestined, adopted, redeemed, and forgiven. We will talk about what these terms mean, how they should fill us with overwhelming sense of gratitude, and how they should shape the way we think about God and ourselves. If we really take these matters to heart, they will change our entire outlook on life. (Scripture: Ephesians 1:3-14)

Stuck in a Rut of Guilt and Shame

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 11:45:25 GMT

Guilt and shame can eat us alive. It can be very easy to fall into that rut of guilt and shame, but very difficult to break free from it. When we do something wrong, how can we avoid internalizing guilt and shame. And once we have fallen into this rut, how can we get out? In this lesson we will explore how the Psalms can help us acknowledge, confess, and repent of our sins in a healthy and renewing way. (Scripture: Psalm 32:1-11)

Stuck in a Rut of Bad Decisions

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 09:20:32 GMT

Why do we get stuck in a rut of making foolish and sinful choices? Why do we continue to do things we don’t want to do and we know we shouldn’t do? How do we start making changes in our lives? In this lesson we will explore how the Psalms, and the practice of meditating on Scripture, can help us reflect and renew. (Scripture: Psalm 1:1-6)

Out of Friendship and Into Friendship

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 09:20:18 GMT

Christians are called to engage in faith-filled conversations. John 15 tells us that we are to “Abide in Jesus.” The image in this passage is of a vine and its branches… How does this image relate to our discipleship making efforts? A disciple's relationship with Jesus is the essential catalyst for engaging with others in faith-filled conversations. (Scripture: John 15:14-17)

Are You Confessing Your Sins to Others?

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 09:30:25 GMT

In his book, Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools, Tyler Staton said, “A maturing community is a confessing community - not a church without sin, but a church without secrets.” In order to be renewed, not only do we need to reflect on our lives, we need to verbally confess the sins we find there. We need to confess our sins to God, but also to one another. In this lesson we will explore James 5:13-18 and discuss how we can be more honest with one another about our sins. (Scripture: James 5:13-18)

God Loves Us Where We Are

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 09:30:47 GMT

(Scripture: Romans 5:1-8)

God’s Wake Up Call Through Malachi

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 09:20:08 GMT

Around the time of Nehemiah, the Jewish people had been back in Jerusalem for over 140 years. The temple had been rebuilt decades earlier. Worship ceremonies, rituals, and routines had been reestablished. But God was sick and tired of it all. The worship and the sacrifices that were being offered were an insult and disgrace. As we consider our own worship, what sort of sacrifices are we offering to him? Do we give him our very best, our whole self, everyday of the week; or are we just giving him the leftovers, after we’ve given ourselves to everything else? What will it take for us to wake up and reflect soberly on what we are offering to the Lord? (Scripture: Malachi 1:10-14)

God's Wake Up Call Through Haggai

Sun, 17 Sep 2023 09:20:00 GMT

Many of the Jewish people had returned from Babylon to Jerusalem. They started to rebuild the temple, but allowed opposition to stop them. So, for many years, the house of God was lying “in ruins.” Meanwhile, the people rebuilt their own houses and were enriching themselves, but neglecting God’s house. How can we apply the lessons from Haggai to our own lives? God does not live in a temple made with hands, but he has a temple nonetheless. Are we neglecting that temple, while dwelling in our own paneled houses? (Scripture: Haggai 1:3-9)

God's Wake Up Call Through Amos

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 09:20:23 GMT

God sent Amos to prophesy during a period of wealth and prosperity. The rich and powerful felt that everything was going well. They were well-fed, lazy, and content. But Amos was a farmer who was called to prophesy to the elites, telling them to wake up and take care of their responsibilities. Are we being like the people of Amos’ day? Would we know it if we were? What would it take for us to wake up and “let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream” (Amos 5:24)? (Scripture: Amos 6:1-7)

God's Wake Up Call Through Hosea

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 09:20:26 GMT

God used the marriage of Hosea to try to get Israel’s attention. He told Hosea to marry a prostitute and experience the pain of being married to a serial adulterer. God did this so that Israel could see how their unfaithfulness felt to God; how it disappointed, pained, and angered him. However, in spite of their unfaithfulness, God continued to love and pursue his people. As we reflect on our own commitment to him, are we faithful or are we like a wayward spouse? If we were being drawn away from God, what would he have to do to get our attention? (Scripture: Hosea 4:1-6)

An Encouraging Word from Ronnie Fisher

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 20:20:02 GMT

Two Men Went Up Into the Temple to Pray…

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 09:20:37 GMT

In this story, Jesus compares the prayers of two Jewish men, a Pharisee and a tax collector. When Jesus’ first century Jewish audience heard, “Pharisee,” they would have pictured a religious man who was passionate about obeying God and keeping God’s commandments. They would have assumed the Pharisee was going to be the good guy in the story. The tax collector, by contrast, would have been an obvious bad guy, a reprobate and a traitor. However, when the parable ended with the tax collector justified and exalted, it would have been a shocking and even scandalous conclusion to the story. In order to discover the discomfort of this story we have to ask, who do we vilify and look down upon in order to feel better about ourselves? (Scripture: Luke 18:9-14)

An Encouraging Word from Keith Harris

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 20:05:35 GMT

There Was a Rich Man Who…

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 09:20:53 GMT

Many argue this story is not a parable. Unfortunately, that endless debate almost always shifts the focus from the moral of the story to the minutia of the story. It becomes about, “What happens to people when they die?” rather than, “What happens to people when they’re greedy and don’t feed their poor neighbors?” Maybe we should ask ourselves, why are we so uncomfortable with the true moral of this story? (Scripture: Luke 16:19-31)

An Encouraging Word from Todd Catteau

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 20:05:03 GMT

The Land of a Rich Man…

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 09:30:23 GMT

Jesus told a story about a farmer with a bumper crop. The farmer drew up plans to store his newly acquired wealth and retire. However, in the parable, “God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?” Why does God call the man a fool? What should this parable teach us about wealth? Is it possible this story has more to teach than we are typically comfortable admitting? (Scripture: Luke 12:16-21)

An Encouraging Word from Steven Cuffle

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 20:15:58 GMT

A Sower Went Out to Sow…

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 12:00:11 GMT

In this first parable, Jesus uses four types of soil to illustrate a sobering truth, many people have ears to hear but don’t really hear or hang onto the word of God. You’re likely familiar with this parable. You may have even thought about what sort of “soil” you are. However, have you considered the uncomfortable truth, bad soil doesn’t even know it’s bad soil? That seems to be Jesus’ whole point with this story, if you’re not exceptionally aware of what is happening, you will fall away and you may not even know it happened. (Scripture: Luke 8:4-8)

An Encouraging Word from Scott Jarvis

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 20:05:02 GMT

The Role of Fellowship in a Spirit-Filled Life

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 09:15:05 GMT

Most of what the New Testament says about the Holy Spirit is in the context of the collective life of the church. The Holy Spirit is equipping other Christians for your benefit. And he is equipping you for the benefit of other Christians. Therefore, you will only ever experience the complete benefits of the Holy Spirit when you are living in close fellowship with other Spirit-filled believers. The more connected you are to other Christians, the more the Spirit is able to work in your life through them. (Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12-20)

An Encouraging Word from Shelton Gibbs IV

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 20:05:28 GMT

The Role of Fasting in a Spirit-Filled Life

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 09:30:54 GMT

Jesus assumed that after his ascension to the throne, his followers would fast. He even gave them specific instructions about how to fast. Fasting is one way that Christians have—for the last 2,000 years—disciplined their bodies in order to be more aware of the Spirit. The desires of our flesh, even the most natural desire of hunger, will control us if we are not intentional about disciplining ourselves and surrendering our lives to the control of the Spirit. (Scripture: Matthew 6:16-18)

An Encouraging Word from Todd Crayton

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 20:15:07 GMT

The Role of Praise in a Spirit-Filled Life

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 09:20:52 GMT

Paul gives Christians this command, “be filled with the Spirit.” The next few phrases in Ephesians 5 either teach Christians how to be filled with the Spirit or describe what it looks like when we are filled with the Spirit. Either way, there is no doubt that singing songs of praise is an essential part of a Spirit-filled life. When we praise God, we are aligning ourselves with the Holy Spirit, treasuring his truth in our hearts and expressing his thoughts with our mouths. If we want to be filled with the Spirit, we must be people of praise. (Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-21)

An Encouraging Word from Seth McDowell

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 20:05:11 GMT

The Role of Rest in a Spirit-Filled Life

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 09:15:48 GMT

The pouring out of the Holy Spirit marks, for those who receive him, entrance into the age to come. This is an age in which, for us, war has ceased and everyone can sit “under his vine and under his fig tree.” This is the peace that was promised when the Messiah established God’s kingdom. And though the present evil age has not yet ended, followers of the Messiah have entered this rest and peace now through faith. Therefore, it is important that we intentionally take time to remind ourselves of, and begin to experience, this rest and peace. (Scripture: Micah 4:1-5)

An Encouraging Word from Eliseo Hinojos

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 20:00:40 GMT

The Role of Prayer in a Spirit-Filled Life

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 09:15:00 GMT

Romans 8 has so much to teach us about the Holy Spirit. One of the things Paul says in this section is that the Holy Spirit is active in our prayer life. As we pray, the Holy Spirit is partnering with us. However, if we are neglecting prayer, we are forfeiting this prayer partnership with the Holy Spirit. Perhaps, many of us need to renew our commitment. (Scripture: Romans 8:26-32)

An Encouraging Word from John Wheeler

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 20:15:52 GMT

The Role of Scripture in a Spirit-Filled Life

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 09:15:46 GMT

Though some people take this idea to an extreme by limiting the Holy Spirit’s presence to “the word only,” Scripture is absolutely essential to aligning ourselves with the Holy Spirit. In fact, Paul says Scripture is, “inspired.” We could understand that as something like, “inspirited.” Scripture has God’s breath in it. If we want to be aligned with, and filled with, the Holy Spirit, we must listen to, meditate on, and obey what is written in Scripture. (Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:12-17)

An Encouraging Word from Willie B. Williams

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 20:15:52 GMT

Should We Stop Here to Refuel?

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 09:15:20 GMT

It’s easy to keep pushing yourself, long after the fuel light has come on and you’re running on fumes. But stubbornly refusing to pull over and refuel helps no one. Worse yet, it can be harmful and dangerous. God doesn’t need you to be a hero, trying to accomplish things on your own. He needs you to put your trust in him, so that you can work and rest in confidence and faith. (Scripture: Psalm 127)

An Encouraging Word from Steve Minor

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 20:00:54 GMT

Do I Need to Pull This Car Over?

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 09:20:28 GMT

Sometimes the threat to “pull this car over” was just that, a threat. But other times, it was a promise. And when the car was stopped and the door was yanked open, there was a good chance that the innocents would be punished as severely as those who were guilty. How can we create an environment where discipline is decisive, correction is constructive, and punishment is proper? (Scripture: Ephesians 6:1-3)

An Encouraging Word from Jacob Hawk

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:58:09 GMT

What Can We Do with All This Baggage?

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 09:15:25 GMT

We often pack more items than we need when we go on a trip with family, friends or on our own. Our life journey is similar. Traveling down life’s road is not meant to include carrying heavy unnecessary baggage. God wants us to travel light. (Scripture: John 3:16-18)

Finding True Love in the Church

Wed, 31 May 2023 20:00:25 GMT

This whole series is about true love. Not just romantic love, but love that is true. Love that comes from God, that is demonstrated in the cross, and that is produced by the Holy Spirit in the lives of God’s people. Love that is true in the sense of being constant and dependable. Love that doesn’t give up on people. And love that is true in the sense of being honest and in agreement with reality. This is the kind of love we ought to be able to find in the church. This is the kind of love that can help us navigate a world of confusing and conflicting ideas.

Whose Turn is it to Drive?

Sun, 28 May 2023 09:15:38 GMT

Ever since Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, there has been tension, conflict, and struggle within marriage. Sometimes we try to domineer, grabbing the steering wheel of leadership. Other times, we abdicate our leadership responsibilities, leaving no one at the wheel. Unfortunately, cultural gender stereotypes only make the matter worse. What role does God really expect us to fulfill in marriage and family? (Scripture: Ephesians 5:22-33)

Sex and Gender

Wed, 24 May 2023 20:00:34 GMT

There are two biological sexes, male and female. However, some individuals experience incongruity between their biological sex and their internal sense of gender. In other words, they report feeling they are trapped in the wrong body. In our culture, it has become widely accepted that a person’s internal sense, their psychology, should take precedent over their biology. However, this modern ideology around sex and gender has left many feeling confused and disappointed. In our current environment, the church has a unique opportunity to offer both truth and love to a community of people looking for answers.

Why Don’t You Stop and Ask for Directions?

Sun, 21 May 2023 09:20:38 GMT

Stopping to get directions can be difficult and embarrassing, because it requires us to admit we need help and we don’t know everything. But God never intended for mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, and children to travel this road alone. Generations must be learning from, mentoring, encouraging, and teaching one another. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for advice, it might provide exactly the course correction you need. (Scripture: Titus 2:1-8)

Same Sex Attraction

Wed, 17 May 2023 20:00:23 GMT

Same sex attraction and same sex behavior are nothing new, this was fairly common even in the ancient world. However, what is new is the idea of “sexual orientation” and an identity built around sexual orientation. In our overly-sexualized world, the Gospel not only offers an alternative standard for sexual behavior, but also freedom from the idea that we must be defined by our desires. The church should be a place where people who experience same sex attraction can find love, hope, family, and a better narrative by which to live their lives.

Are We There Yet?

Sun, 14 May 2023 09:30:35 GMT

Though kids are the ones who typically ask, “Are We There Yet?” even adults get tired, impatient, and exasperated. Sometimes we grow tired because we are pursuing too many goals, we are trying to be and do too much. Paul’s words to the Thessalonians can help us simplify our lives, focus on what matters, and experience peace. (Scripture 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12)

Pornography

Wed, 10 May 2023 20:30:56 GMT

Pornography offers people a form of sex that is disconnected from commitment, love, and even relationship. It makes sex into something selfish and self-indulgent (even glorifying abuse and violence). Those who habitually view pornography are being mentally, emotionally, and spiritually malformed by it. Thankfully, Jesus offers healing and freedom to those who’ve been taken captive by the deceitful lies of pornography.

The Light of the World

Sun, 07 May 2023 09:15:04 GMT

Mission Sunday Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12 ESV

Words of Anger or Forgiveness

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 09:20:56 GMT

Paul said, “Be angry and do not sin” but this shouldn’t be seen as justification for all of our anger. In fact, in the same passage, he has a lot more to say about anger. He tells Christians to put away all of our angry words. When we put on the new self in Christ, we have to adopt a way of speaking that is kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving. We do this because of what Jesus has done for us. In other words, the Gospel transforms the way we get angry, the way we speak when we’re angry, and how readily we forgive those who have wronged us. (Scripture: Ephesians 4:25-32)

Divorce

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 20:10:04 GMT

Nearly everyone has been affected, in one way or another, by divorce. It can be devastating not only for the couple who divorces, but also for their children, parents, and others. Jesus sheds light on why divorce is so tragic and why marriage was always intended by God to be a life-long arrangement. There are many ways the church can help save marriages, but the church also needs to help people pick up the pieces when divorce occurs.

Words of Corruption or Grace

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 09:15:03 GMT

Continuing to describe the “new self,” Paul teaches us that we should not let any “corrupting talk” come out of our mouths. What is corrupting talk? Do you ever reflect on whether or not you are speaking words of corruption? By contrast, Paul says every word we speak should be “good for building up” and “give grace to those who hear.” Living as the new self means recognizing that our words can and should be conduits of grace. (Scripture: Ephesians 4:25-32)

Christian Marriage

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 20:00:57 GMT

The Christian view of marriage was unique in the ancient world. It challenged many of the preconceived ideas and practices in that culture. Today, it remains a unique view and continues to challenge preconceived ideas and practices. Christian marriage is not simply a way to pursue personal happiness and fulfillment, but is a sacred way of honoring God and embodying the Gospel.

Words of Falsehood or Truth

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 09:15:29 GMT

Paul says that that the “new self” is marked by putting away falsehood and speaking truth. He says the reason for choosing to speak truth is that, “we are members one of another.” Living the new life means reflecting on how we are connected to other people. It also means reflecting on how our words affect the people with whom we are connected. How might our perception of truth and falsehood change if we really considered ourselves to be members of one another? (Scripture: Ephesians 4:25-32)

Christian Singleness

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:00:10 GMT

Both Jesus and Paul were single men and both made a compelling case for why others might also choose to remain single for the sake of the kingdom. Unmarried Christians are uniquely qualified to focus on a wide-range of relationships and ministries, as well as testify against our generation’s idolatry of romance and sex.

The Road to Emmaus

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 09:20:31 GMT

On the Sunday afternoon that Jesus was raised from the dead, he spent quite a lot of time with two disciples (about whom we know almost nothing). These disciples were sad, confused, and unaware of Jesus’ true identity. He walked and talked with them. He reasoned from the Scriptures about the resurrection of the Messiah. Their hearts burned within them, but they still didn’t know that the one to whom they were speaking was Jesus. Finally, at dinner, their eyes were opened and they realized it was Jesus. What can we learn from this strange encounter? Why did Luke include it in his account and how might it lead to spiritual transformation in us? (Luke 24:13-27)

God Created Sex

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 20:00:21 GMT

Scripture gives us a high view of sex. God created sex. Sex is good, but it is not a god. When we make sex a god, as our culture has done, we become enslaved by this idolatry. On the other hand, when we appreciate sex as one aspect of God’s good creation, it can be an avenue through which we see the goodness of God.

Are You Thinking Enough About Death?

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 09:30:57 GMT

One of the most important areas of reflection is our own mortality. Unfortunately, this area of reflection is largely discouraged and frowned upon in our culture. Discussion of death is considered morbid. So, we tend to push death as far away from ourselves as possible. However, the book of Ecclesiastes tells that attending funerals and thinking soberly about death will make us wise. If we want to experience spiritual transformation, we must reflect on death and our own mortality. (Scripture: Ecclesiastes 7:1-4)

Welcome the Interruptions

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 09:20:53 GMT

As Jesus was ministering to a whole crowd of people, he was interrupted by a religious leader who had a very sick daughter. Jesus welcomed this interruption and accompanied the man to his home. As he was on his way, Jesus was again interrupted by a woman who was also very sick. Once again, Jesus welcomed the interruption. When our busy routines are interrupted, do we get frustrated or do we welcome the opportunity to allow God’s blessings flow through us to others? (Scripture: Luke 8:43-48)

Identity and Authenticity

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 20:05:49 GMT

How we perceive ourselves and how we believe we should express ourselves is often at the heart of various understandings about sexuality. As Christians, what is our identity? Are we being inauthentic or hypocritical if our outward behavior conflicts with our feelings and desires?

Use the Sabbath as God Intended

Sun, 19 Mar 2023 09:15:50 GMT

The religious leaders of Jesus’ day thought that he violated and dishonored the Sabbath. Nothing could be further from the truth. Jesus had an even higher regard for the Sabbath than the Pharisees. Jesus understood and truly honored the Sabbath, because he is lord of the Sabbath. He understood that the Sabbath was FOR man. It was a day for man to be refreshed and restored. It was a day for taking care of one another and doing good. Though Gentile Christians were never commanded to keep the Sabbath, we would be wise to acknowledge our need for regular rhythms of refreshing in our lives. (Scripture: Luke 6:1-10)

Body, Soul, and Spirit

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 20:15:11 GMT

It is hard to understand biblical sexuality without understanding what Scripture teaches about the human body, soul, and spirit. Scripture does not teach that the human body is an encumbrance or something separate from our true self. Scripture teaches that our body is good and that we are our body.

Take Time for What Matters

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 09:20:38 GMT

How often do we rush past people on the street, at work, at school, in the hallways of the church building, or even in our own homes, and not really see them? Our “to do” list is always spurring us on to the next task. And when we do have a moment of free time, we are often too spent to spend time serving others. Jesus, on the other hand, moved at a different pace. He took time for people in need. He saw them, touched them, helped them, spoke to them, and loved them. (Scripture: Luke 5:12-16)

Finding True Love in God

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 20:15:33 GMT

God’s love is true love. Our passions, desires, and loves become disordered when we attempt to love apart from God. In order to love truly, we must first know the love of God. Everything else in this series will be ordered around the true love that comes from God.

Hungry, But Not Hurried

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 09:15:27 GMT

After 40 days in the wilderness with nothing to eat, Luke says Jesus, “was hungry.” When we are hungry, literally or metaphorically, we tend to grow impatient. We not only want our hunger to be satisfied, we want it to be satisfied immediately. And our impatience almost always leads to sin. Jesus, on the other hand, did not grow impatient. He patiently waited for his Father to feed him and care for him. We must embrace the patience of Jesus and learn to be hungry, but not hurried. (Scripture: Luke 4:1-15)

Waiting (Postexilic and Intertestamental Periods)

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 20:15:37 GMT

What Happened in the Old Testament and How It Leads to Jesus

Comparison Can Lead to Pride and Boasting

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 09:10:39 GMT

Paul’s critics “measured themselves by one another and compared themselves with one another.” This made them proud and arrogant. They boasted and commended themselves, because they were choosing the standards of measurement and what qualities and traits should be measured. They were confident, but their confidence was misplaced. Our confidence should never come from comparison, but from the Gospel. We should boast, but only boast “in the Lord.” (Scripture: 2 Corinthians 10:7-12)

Returned (Ezra and Nehemiah)

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 20:15:49 GMT

What Happened in the Old Testament and How It Leads to Jesus

Comparison Can Lead to Self-Loathing

Sun, 19 Feb 2023 09:30:19 GMT

Paul was constantly compared to others and many found Paul to be lacking. It would have been easy for Paul to participate in this preacher comparison contest. He could have easily critiqued, criticized, and condemned himself for his own shortcomings. Many of us do this very thing. However, Paul said, “It is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. I do not even judge myself.” Rather than condemning or acquitting himself, Paul surrendered judgment to the only rightful judge, Jesus. We must learn to do the same. (Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:1-5)

Exiled (Assyria and Babylon)

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 20:15:57 GMT

What Happened in the Old Testament and How It Leads to Jesus

Comparison Can Lead to Self-Deception

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 09:15:26 GMT

When the church is what the church is supposed to be, we see others at their worst. We see them when they are struggling and when they have failed. We are called to help them and restore them. However, seeing others struggling with sin can create a comparison problem for us. We may think that we are too good to help them, or that we are better than them in some way. When we see someone weak and struggling, we must keep watch on ourselves, lest we also be tempted. (Scripture: Galations 6:1-5)

Divided (The Divided Kingdom)

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 20:15:41 GMT

What Happened in the Old Testament and How It Leads to Jesus

Comparison Can Lead to Materialism

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 09:15:14 GMT

It isn’t uncommon for us to “count our blessings” by comparing how much more material goods we have than others. We may even think this is a spiritually mature practice. We believe this creates gratitude in our hearts by comparing our relative wealth to the relative poverty of others. However, this is actually fostering materialism in our hearts by considering material wealth to be a sign of how “blessed” we are. Jesus does not encourage the wealthy to see themselves as comparatively blessed. In fact, he turns conventional wisdom on its head, creating a whole new way to count your blessings. (Scripture: Luke 6:20-26)

Are You Being Transformed or Conformed?

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 09:15:45 GMT

The world normalizes sinful behavior and shames those who does not abide by its standards. Not only is the world’s influence hard to resist, sometimes it is even hard to recognize it for what it is. Because the world’s influence is so subtle and pervasive, it is not uncommon for Christian people to be conformed, but still blindly think they are following Jesus. We must be vigilant and resolute to resist conformity. And we must be equally intentional about being transformed by the renewing of our minds. (Scripture: Romans 12:1-2)

United (The Reign of David)

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 20:15:55 GMT

What Happened in the Old Testament and How It Leads to Jesus

See Clearly

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 09:15:45 GMT

What Would the Lord Say About Your Feet?

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 09:15:57 GMT

To what degree are we personally engaged in sharing Jesus with the world? Romans 10 says the people who bring good news have “beautiful feet.” So, we all need to ask ourselves what the Lord would say about our feet. (Scripture: Romans 10:8-15)

Lawless (Period of the Judges)

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 20:15:39 GMT

What Happened in the Old Testament and How It Leads to Jesus

How Do You Respond to the Mirror?

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 09:15:25 GMT

James compares hearing “the word” to looking in a mirror. And just like looking in a mirror, the word can reveal our flaws. When we look in a mirror and see flaws, do we get angry? do we blame the mirror? do we just walk away and forget what we saw? or do we make the necessary changes? When God’s word reveals how your life is not what it should be, how do you respond? Does self-examination lead to spiritual transformation? (Scripture: James 1:19-27)

Victorious (Deuteronomy and Joshua)

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 20:15:00 GMT

What Happened in the Old Testament and How It Leads to Jesus

Test Yourselves, Are You in the Faith?

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 09:30:58 GMT

The Christians in Corinth were putting Paul to the test, trying to make him prove his apostolic authority. At the end of the letter, he turns the examination on them, they need to examine themselves. We all have a tendency to examine, test, and scrutinize others. And we need to be reminded to test ourselves to see if we are really in the faith. This Sunday we will begin a yearlong process of self-examination. (Scripture: 2 Corinthians 13:5-9)

The Dragon and the Child

Sun, 25 Dec 2022 09:15:23 GMT

The book of Revelation tells the story of Jesus’ birth in a highly symbolic way. Satan is pictured as a dragon. God’s people are pictured as a woman about to give birth to a child. The dragon waited for the woman’s child to be born so that he could devour him. However, when the Son was born, the dragon’s plans came to nothing and the Son was caught up to heaven to “rule all the nations.” Therefore, we celebrate the dragon’s defeat and the Son’s exaltation. And we also wait patiently for his final victory over the dragon. (Scripture: Revelation 12:1-6)

Wandering (The Wilderness)

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 20:15:32 GMT

What Happened in the Old Testament and How It Leads to Jesus

Persecuted, but Not Forsaken

Sun, 18 Dec 2022 09:30:32 GMT

Paul finally made it to Rome, after a journey that took several months. While in Rome, waiting to stand trial before Caesar, Paul was confined to a house that he paid to use. But in spite of his chains, the word of God was not bound (see 2 Timothy 2:9). The word of God continued to be preached to both Jews and Gentiles, even while Paul was a prisoner. When we can’t go where we want and do what we want, we can sometimes believe the lie that God has forsaken us. But maybe we are right where we need to be and God is right here beside us, as he promised he would be. (Scripture: Acts 28:23-31)

Liberated (Exodus from Egypt)

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 20:15:08 GMT

What Happened in the Old Testament and How It Leads to Jesus

Stranded, but Not Abandoned

Sun, 11 Dec 2022 09:20:56 GMT

It’s hard to imagine a worse situation than the one in which Paul found himself: falsely accused, unjustly imprisoned for years, tossed mercilessly at sea for weeks, shipwrecked on an island, and then bitten by a viper. However, even in the middle of such horrible circumstances, Paul was still being cared for by God. We can either get discouraged and angry about our circumstances or we can try to see God’s hand providing and protecting us, even when everything seems against us. (Scripture: Acts 28:1-10)

Afflicted, but Not Crushed

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 09:20:15 GMT

After two weeks of stormy seas, Paul still remained confident and steadfast. He could do so because God had promised him that no one on board the ship would die. Because he trusted in the promises of God, not only was Paul able to stay calm, he was able to encourage others also. When we find ourselves in a storm, we must hold tightly to the promises of God. His promises will not only give us inner peace, but will allow us to minister to others as well. (Scripture: Acts 27:21-25)

Resist the Devil, and He Will Flee from You

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 20:15:13 GMT

Whether we care to admit it or not, we are engaged in a war for our souls. In this war, we face three enemies: the devil, the flesh, and the world. Author John Mark Comer in his book, Live No Lies, suggests that the devil's tactic "to drive the soul and society into ruin, is deceptive ideas that play to disordered desires, which are normalized in a sinful society.” On Wednesday nights this fall, we will discuss how to resist these lies of Satan and walk in the truth.

Testifying to Our Hope

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 09:15:03 GMT

When Paul made his defense before Herod Agrippa, he said, “I stand here on trial because of my hope in the promise made by God to our fathers.” That hope is the resurrection of the dead and the inheritance God promised to his people. Paul’s defense not only included what happened in the past, but also what will happen in the future. If it is true, that God will raise the dead and judge the world through Jesus, then preaching this message and live in obedience to Jesus is the only life that makes sense. (Scripture: Acts 26:1-8)

Living Blamelessly in the World

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 09:15:42 GMT

When Paul was on trial before Governor Felix, he began with the defense that in Jerusalem, he was not, “disputing with anyone or stirring up a crowd, either in the temple or in the synagogues or in the city.” Everywhere he went, Paul protected his reputation. He strove to live an honorable life that his critics could not use against him. The way we live our lives will either lend credibility to the Gospel or will undermine the credibility of the Gospel. We must make sure we are living honorable and blameless lives before unbelievers. (Scripture: Acts 24:10-21)

The Church as a Countercultural Community

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 20:05:11 GMT

Telling a Personal and Relatable Story

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 09:20:51 GMT

For Paul, the Good News about Jesus was not merely an abstract theological idea, it was his lived reality. When Paul made a defense for the faith, he did by telling his story of how the resurrected Jesus appeared to him. Additionally, he not only told his story, he told it in a way that was relatable for his audience. In Jerusalem, he told his story in Hebrew and related his zeal for the Law of Moses. Do we take the time to build bridges with our critics? Do we find ways to relate to them and share our story in a way that touches on shared experiences? (Scripture: Acts 22:12-21)

The World and Its Desires

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 21:07:20 GMT

Becoming All Things to All People

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 09:15:31 GMT

Paul said, “To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law” (1 Corinthians 9:20). When Paul returned to Jerusalem from his missionary journeys, we see how Paul lived out his principle of becoming all things to all people. In order to dispel the myth that he taught Jewish people to disregard the Law of Moses, he went to the temple and took part in Jewish purification rituals. How could we imitate Paul’s example when dealing with those who falsely accuse us? (Scripture: Acts 21:17-26)

Walk by the Spirit

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 20:15:40 GMT

An Unstoppable Church Prepares for Challenges

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 09:15:07 GMT

Paul encouraged the Ephesian elders to be prepared to deal with “fierce wolves” in the church. Are we prepared to deal with similar threats in the church today? (Scripture: Acts 20:22-32)

You Reap What You Sow

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 20:15:41 GMT

The Gospel Turns Ephesus Upside Down

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 09:20:22 GMT

When the Gospel was preached in Ephesus, many practitioners of “magic arts” abandoned their former practices and burned their books. They wanted nothing more to do with these pagan practices. But this made the local artisans, who crafted idols, afraid and angry. How should the Gospel be impacting various economic systems today? (Scripture: Acts 19:11-20)

How to Use Your Freedom

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 20:00:23 GMT

The Gospel Turns Corinth Upside Down

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 09:30:53 GMT

Corinth became a very important city in the history of the church. Paul preached there for a year and a half, but it wasn’t without significant opposition. And, for years, the church in Corinth would struggle to fully embrace the implications of the Gospel. Have we embraced the implications of the Gospel? (Scripture: Acts 18:5-11)

What is the Flesh?

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 20:15:34 GMT

The Gospel Turns Athens Upside Down

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 09:30:52 GMT

In Athens, we get to hear how Paul preaches to a very different audience, a group of pagan worshipers and philosophers. Paul takes a much different approach here, than he does when preaching to a Jewish audience. Unfortunately, the idea of resurrection made many mock. What claims of the Gospel seem outrageous in our world? (Scripture: Acts 17:22-31)

Stand Firm

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 20:00:07 GMT

The Gospel Turns Berea Upside Down

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 09:20:11 GMT

The Gospel was well received in Berea, because of their open-mindedness and willingness to study, learn, and grow. But even in Berea, Paul and his companions dealt with opposition. How can we tell when we have a Berean heart? (Scripture: Acts 17:10-15)

Do Not Be Deceived

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 20:30:40 GMT

The Gospel Turns Thessalonica Upside Down

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 09:30:13 GMT

Thessalonica is the city where Paul and his companions were accused of turning the world upside down. In Thessalonica, there were many who believed, but also those who rightly perceived the Gospel as challenging both Jewish beliefs and Caesar’s claims. Are we willing to be challenged by, and challenge others with, the Gospel? (Scripture: Acts 17:1-9)

Truth and Lies

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 20:15:25 GMT

The Gospel Turns Philippi Upside Down

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 09:20:34 GMT

The Good News continued to spread, as Jesus said it would, to the ends of the earth. In the city of Philippi, the first European converts believed. But when the Gospel disrupted the exploitation a young slave girl, Paul and Silas were beaten and jailed. Are we willing to preach a liberating Gospel, even if it means disrupting the status quo? (Scripture: Acts 16:11-15)

Who is the Devil and How Does He Operate?

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 20:10:22 GMT

An Unstoppable Church Deals with Conflict

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 09:15:22 GMT

The growing church is faced with a conflict between two of its missional leaders – Paul and Barnabas. The account of this dispute provides insight both into human personhood and the divine mission. (Scripture: Acts 15:36-41)

We Are at War

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 20:00:44 GMT

An Unstoppable Church Deals with Controversy

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 09:30:45 GMT

We talk about the “Jerusalem council” and the lessons we can learn about dealing with controversy that arises in the church today. (Scripture: Acts 15:6-11)

Villains: The Murderous Mob of Lystra

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 09:20:54 GMT

A crowd can be fickle. One moment they love you, the next moment they are trying to kill you. That’s exactly what happened to Paul and Barnabas in Lystra. The people of Lystra worshiped the missionaries as “gods” when they first arrived. But after some provocation, the crowd turned into an angry mob who tried to execute Paul by stoning him. When crowds turn on us today, how will we respond? Will we return insult for insult and injury for injury? Or will we remember the encouraging words of Paul after he was stoned, “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God”? (Scripture: Acts 14:19-22)

Villains: The Jealous Troublemakers of Antioch

Sun, 21 Aug 2022 09:25:52 GMT

There was an amazing response to the Gospel amongst the Jewish people of Antioch in Pisidia. However, the Jewish leadership there was “filled with jealousy and began to contradict what was spoken by Paul, reviling him.” But this rejection did not stop the mission. In fact, the rejection amongst the Jewish people led to an opportunity with the Gentiles. The church should never be surprised when we encounter opposition and rejection. We should expect this is going to happen. When it does, we should be confident that every rejection is likely accompanied by an opportunity. (Scripture: Acts 13:44-49)

Villains: Bar-Jesus the Magician

Sun, 14 Aug 2022 09:20:02 GMT

While Paul and Barnabas were preaching on the island of Cyprus, they had the opportunity to share the Good News with the governor, but Bar-Jesus (a magician and “Jewish false prophet”) opposed them. In one of the strongest statements of Acts, Paul said to Bar-Jesus, “You son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, full of deceit and villainy, will you not stop making crooked the straight paths of the Lord?” The church must be able to recognize and call out false teaching that blinds people to the truth of the Gospel. We must speak truth and trust that the truth will always prevail against lies. (Scripture: Acts 13:6-12)

Villains: Herod Agrippa

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 09:20:01 GMT

Herod Agrippa violently persecuted the church. He executed the apostle James. He also arrested and intended to kill Peter. He did all of this in order to curry favor with Judean leadership. He was a shrewd and cunning politician, motivated by an insatiable appetite for power and control. But the Lord rescued Peter from prison and ended Herod’s arrogant reign of terror. When the church is persecuted by power-hungry political leaders, the answer is not to give allegiance to rival leaders, but to give our allegiance to King Jesus and trust him. (Scripture: Acts 12:20-24)

A Message for Every Neighborhood

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 09:20:27 GMT

Though the Jerusalem church accepted (in theory) the idea that God had granted repentance to the Gentiles, a truly multi-ethnic congregation wasn’t formed until the Good News came to the city of Antioch. This was a city with populations of various ethnic groups. Ethnic groups stayed mostly to themselves and tensions ran deep. But the Good News of Jesus began to change all of that. People of various ethnicities began to embrace each other as siblings. Outsiders probably didn’t know what to call this new multi-ethnic group, so they ended up called them “Christians.” (Acts 11:19-26)

Who Are We to Stand in God's Way?

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 09:20:10 GMT

After the events in Joppa and Caesarea, Peter returned to Jerusalem to receive less than a warm welcome. People were angry and critical because news had gotten out that he had shared meals with uncircumcised people. Peter related to them the entire story. Soon, the criticism turned to celebration. The people realized that a multi-ethnic church wasn’t Peter’s idea, but God’s idea. God is absolutely determined for ethnic walls to be torn down and to form one redeemed family. And if this is God’s doing, who are are we to, “stand in God’s way?” (Scripture: Acts 11:15-18)

God’s Gift for All People

Sun, 17 Jul 2022 09:30:55 GMT

When Peter preached the Good News about Jesus to Cornelius’ household, “the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word.” Even after all that Peter heard and experienced, he was still amazed that God would give the gift of the Holy Spirit to the Gentiles. Ethnocentrism, the idea that a particular ethnic group is better or more deserving than others, is hard to overcome. Sadly, this would not be the last time Peter struggled with ethnocentrism. Through it all, God would continue to condemn ethnic prejudice and pride, by showing the church that the gift of the Holy Spirit is for people of every nation, tribe, and language. (Scripture: Acts 10:44-48)

It’s Time for a Bigger Table

Sun, 10 Jul 2022 09:20:38 GMT

While God was working in the life of Cornelius, he was also working in the life of the apostle Peter. While Peter was staying the city of Joppa, God showed Peter a vision. Peter saw all kinds of animals, many of which the Jewish people considered common or unclean. The Lord told Peter to kill and eat these animals. This command was abhorrent to Peter’s ethnic sensibilities. So, he argued with the Lord. When he woke from the vision, it soon became clear that the vision wasn’t about what to eat, but about the people with whom he should be willing to eat. God was calling Peter to make room at his table for a multi-ethnic family. (Scripture: Acts 10:9-16)

The Prayers God Hears

Sun, 03 Jul 2022 09:20:17 GMT

Rome was the latest in a long line of foreign powers to dominate, control, and oppress the Jewish people. Around 39 BC, the Romans crowned “Herod the Great” as king of Judaea and sent him to control and tax the Jewish people. Among Herod’s many building projects was the city of Caesarea; which was intended to highlight his greatness and the greatness of the emperor, Caesar Augustus. Many years later, there was a Roman centurion named Cornelius, stationed in the city of Caesarea. Shockingly, though he was Roman soldier, he worshiped the God of Israel. God heard his prayers and remembered his generosity. And his story set in motion a series of events that would deeply challenge ethnic prejudices and begin to fulfill God’s vision for a multi-ethnic church. (Scripture: Acts 10:1-4)

The Unstoppable Lord Heals the Body

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 09:20:40 GMT

Jesus cares about the whole person, not just their disembodied spirit. Every time a human body is healed in the book of Acts, it points forward to the redemption of our mortal body on the Day of Christ. This should tell us how much God values our bodies and how we ought to reject any philosophy or doctrine that devalues the human body. (Acts 9:36-42)

Persevering Through Insult and Injury

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 09:30:38 GMT

People can be mean and cruel. If we are not prepared to suffer insult and injury, then we might forfeit our inheritance for a moment of vengeance. We must prepare our families to persevere meekly through insult and injury, trusting God to vindicate us. (Scripture: Psalm 43)

Persevering Through Disappointment

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 09:20:27 GMT

When Jesus was on the cross, he quoted Psalm 22, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Jesus voluntarily experienced the pain and disappointment of feeling abandoned by God. If we live a life of faith, our family will also experience that feeling. Will they have the words and perspective to persevere through that experience? (Scripture: Psalm 22:1-18)

Blessed

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 09:30:19 GMT

Our culture's definition of the word "blessed" and Jesus' definition are related but different. How should we change our focus to better love and serve others? (Scripture: John 13:12-17)

Persevering Through Guilt

Sun, 29 May 2022 09:20:01 GMT

Guilt can be overwhelming. Psalm 32 describes it as feeling like your bones are wasting away or all your strength is dried up. When we feel guilty, we often feel like giving up. We must teach our family how to persevere through guilt to confession and forgiveness.

Persevering Through Doubt

Sun, 22 May 2022 09:15:34 GMT

At some point in our spiritual journey, we will likely hear the taunting words, “Where is your God?” This may come from outside voices or even from our own thoughts. We must prepare our family to persevere through the painful feelings of doubt that accompany these words.

Persevering Through Tempation

Sun, 15 May 2022 09:15:22 GMT

Temptation is inevitable. Are we helping prepare our family to persevere through temptation and not surrender to it? Psalm 119 gives us the ABCs of keeping our way pure, teaching us how to persevere in obedience. (Scripture: Psalm 119:9-16)

Persevering Through Trials

Sun, 08 May 2022 09:30:25 GMT

Christian families must help one another expect trials. So that when trials come, no one will be surprised and everyone will persevere by taking refuge in the Lord. When God inevitably proves his faithfulness through the trials, Christian families must teach one another to sing his praises. (Scripture: Psalm 57)

The Greatest Enterprise of All Time

Sun, 01 May 2022 09:15:18 GMT

Mission Sunday 2022

(Scripture: Romans 10:11-15)

An Unstoppable Church Walks in Fear and Comfort

Sun, 24 Apr 2022 09:15:13 GMT

Luke describes the church as, “walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 9:31). This is rather paradoxical. How can someone experience both “fear” and “comfort” simultaneously? Oswald Chambers said, “The remarkable thing about God is that when you fear God, you fear nothing else, whereas if you do not fear God, you fear everything else.” When we fear the Lord, we experience the comfort of the Spirit. However, if we refuse to fear the Lord, we live in constant fear and anxiety of everything else. (Scripture: Acts 9:26-31)

Saul, Why Do You Persecute Me?

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 11:01:54 GMT

The resurrection of Jesus means Jesus is alive today and actively reigning in his church. He is intimately connected with everything that happens to his people. When Saul was persecuting the church, he was also persecuting the Messiah. The resurrected Jesus appeared to Saul on the road to Damascus and recruited him to be a follower. It’s one thing to acknowledge the resurrection of Jesus, but are you allowing the resurrected Jesus to recruit you to his mission? Are you realigning your life with his will? (Scripture: Acts 9:1-6)

Philip, Share the Good News with the Disenfranchised

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 09:20:10 GMT

The Gospel of Luke focuses a lot of attention on Jesus’ ministry to marginalized and disenfranchised people (women, the poor, Samaritans, moral outcasts, etc.). Luke continues this theme in the book of Acts. When Jerusalem rejected the Gospel and persecuted the church, Jesus recruited people like Philip to proclaim the Gospel to the disenfranchised (Samaritans, the demon possessed, practitioners of magic, and a eunuch). Jesus is recruiting us to take the Gospel to the marginalized and disenfranchised. Are we willing to realign our lives with his mission? (Scripture: Acts 8:35-39)

Stephen, Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 09:30:00 GMT

During the earthly portion of his ministry, Jesus recruited people to be disciples by telling them to take up their cross and follow him. We’ve diluted the idea of “cross bearing” into a metaphor for simply enduring difficulties. However, Jesus’ audience understood that taking up their cross meant accepting martyrdom. Stephen was the first disciple to truly experience this, but he certainly wasn’t the last. Realigning our lives with the mission of Jesus means surrendering ourselves completely to him, even to the point of death. Once we consider ourselves crucified with Christ, the rest should come pretty easy. (Scripture: Acts 7:54-60)

Spirit-Filled Shepherds Look Out for the Overlooked

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 09:15:08 GMT

One of the first internal problems the church faced was ethnic tension between Hebrew-speaking and Greek-speaking Christians. The Greek-speaking widows were being overlooked during the daily distribution of food. When their situation was exposed, the apostles shepherded the church wisely by appointing Greek-speaking men to oversee the fair and equal distribution of food. One of the reasons the church needs Spirit-filled overseers is to make sure no one is overlooked. Especially because the world is not fair or just, the kingdom of God must be. Our Spirit-filled shepherds manage the various needs of a diverse flock. They settle disputes, reconcile those who are at odds, and even administer a type of justice on behalf of the wronged. (Scripture: Acts 6:1-4)

Spirit-Filled Shepherds Speak with Courage

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 09:30:12 GMT

Peter, as all elders must be, was a teacher. He taught about Jesus “in season and out of season,” when people wanted to hear and when they didn’t. Even after he was told to stop teaching about Jesus by the Sanhedrin, he continued to do so. When the Sanhedrin asked why he disobeyed their orders, Peter said, “We must obey God rather than men.” The church continues to need Spirit-filled elders to boldly teach the Good News “in season and out of season.” And every Christian needs to humbly submit to our shepherds’ teaching. (Scripture: Acts 5:27-32)

Spirit-Filled Shepherds Care for the Hurting

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 09:30:42 GMT

Peter was an apostle and at some point he was also an elder in a church (see 1 Peter 5:1). It’s easy to read about the miracles Peter performed and dismiss them as having little to no significance for the church today, because such miracles no longer happen. However, ministering to those who sick and hurting is still one of the primary roles of shepherds (James 5:14). This is why it is imperative shepherds be Spirit-filled men, full of compassion, gentleness, kindness, and love. At some point, we all find ourselves in need of the tender care of our shepherds. (Scripture: Acts 5:12-16)

An Unstoppable Church Deals with Sin

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 09:30:37 GMT

The story of Ananias and Sapphira is one many of us would rather skip over, but we must not ignore the parts of Scripture that make us uncomfortable. This Christian couple conspired and lied about the money they were giving to the church community. Because of their lie, they both died immediately. This story might remind us of Nadab and Abihu, from Leviticus 10. Both not only deal with death, but both deal with the seriousness of being priests in God’s temple. Do we take our priestly role as seriously as we should? (Scripture: Acts 5:1-11)

Pray for Boldness to Speak the Name of Jesus

Sun, 27 Feb 2022 09:30:51 GMT

After their first arrest and being threatened by the Jewish authorities, the early church did not try to seize political power or rally the people in rebellion. They did not even pray to be spared the pain of persecution. They recognized the weakness of their enemies’ threats and prayed, “Grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness.” When we recognize threats of persecution looming over the horizon, do we fear? Do we try to seize earthly power? Or do we recognize the weakness of our enemies’ threats and pray for boldness to keep speaking the name of Jesus in love? (Scripture: Acts 4:29-31)

Refuse to Stop Speaking the Name of Jesus

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 09:15:50 GMT

The Jewish council of rulers, elders, and scribes arrested Peter and John and eventually told them to stop speaking and teaching in the name of Jesus. Peter and John’s response was, “We cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). No matter how much the council threatened to punish them, Peter and John were determined to keep speaking the name of Jesus. Speaking about Jesus likely annoys people today, as it did then. There are those who would rather we keep our beliefs to ourselves. Regardless, the name of Jesus must be proclaimed. Will we keep speaking about what we’ve seen and heard? (Scripture: Acts 4:13-20)

The Prayer of Faith

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 20:05:48 GMT

Scripture: James 5:13-20

Do Good and Speak the Name of Jesus

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 09:30:19 GMT

Peter and John were asked by a lame beggar for money. But rather than money, Peter healed him in the name of Jesus. This act of doing good in the name of Jesus led to even more opportunities to spread the name of Jesus. Though you and I do not possess the power to make the lame walk, Jesus will one day heal every infirmity. Until then, every good deed we do in the name of Jesus is done in anticipation of that day. But it isn’t enough to simply do good, we must speak the name of Jesus when we do good. We must not keep quiet about the one who will restore all things. (Scripture: Acts 3:1-10)

Patience in Suffering

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 20:30:10 GMT

Scripture: James 5:7-12

An Unstoppable Church Has All Things in Common

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 09:15:06 GMT

Luke describes the early
church as having all things “in common” (Acts 2:44; 4:32). By sharing their possessions generously, they made sure there “was not a needy person among them” (Acts 4:34). Seen from a spiritual perspective, this is nothing less than the kingdom of heaven breaking into the world, eliminating poverty and hunger amongst those who received it. As the kingdom of heaven continues to expand on earth, we must make sure people are clothed, fed, and cared for by having all things in common. (Scripture: Acts 2:42-47)

A Transformed People

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 09:20:57 GMT

Following the exciting events of Pentecost, Luke gives us a glimpse of daily life in the new kingdom community. In this section, we see what life looked like when it was transformed by the Spirit’s abiding presence and Jesus’ rule and reign. What were the priorities of this transformed group of people and what are the blessings they experienced? Are these same priorities and blessings reflected in the daily life of McDermott Road? (Scripture: Acts 2:42-47)

Warning to the Rich

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 20:30:09 GMT

Scripture: James 5:1-6

A People of Promise

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 09:30:45 GMT

Filled with the Spirit, the apostle Peter pulled back the curtain of the divine drama to reveal what God was doing. As the reader may have anticipated, these are “the last days” of which the prophet Joel spoke. The Messiah’s Kingdom had now come with power. However, the Jewish people had already found themselves on the wrong side of history, because they collectively rejected and killed the God’s Anointed King. But God is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He is willing to extend pardon, even to his Son’s executioners, provided they repent and are baptized in the name of Jesus the King. (Scripture: Acts 2:14-21)

Boasting About Tomorrow

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 20:15:29 GMT

Scripture: James 4:13-17

A Gathered People

Sun, 16 Jan 2022 09:30:23 GMT

The Messiah enthroned, the new temple dedicated, and now God was ready to gather his dispersed people back to himself. The Day of Pentecost was the perfect day for the Shepherd to gather his scattered sheep, because Jerusalem was filled with representatives of the entire Jewish Diaspora. This scene was not only a fulfillment of many prophecies but also serves as a foreshadow of the Day of gathering that is to come. (Scripture: Acts 2:5-8)

Humble Yourselves

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 20:30:33 GMT

Scripture: James 4:1-12

A Spirit-filled People

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 09:30:54 GMT

Both the sights and the sounds of Pentecost are echoes of God’s presence coming to reside in the tabernacle and the temple. Now that the Messiah had been enthroned in heaven, God dedicated his new glorious temple. Surprisingly, it was a temple unlike anyone had ever seen. It was a temple of “living stones.” The followers of Jesus became—and continue to be—the temple of God. So, what are the implications of being God’s temple today? (Scripture: Acts 2:1-4)

Wisdom from Above

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 20:30:44 GMT

Scripture: James 3:13-18

An Unstoppable Messiah on an Unstoppable Mission

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 09:30:32 GMT

The ascension of Jesus should not be interpreted as Jesus leaving, but as Jesus taking the throne to rule with complete and total authority over heaven and earth. From this point forward, Jesus—not Caesar—will be in charge of the world and will work to bring the world into subjection. However, he will not subjugate the world through power, might, and coercion, but through love, mercy, and grace. Jesus is an unstoppable Messiah and McDermott Road is joining him on his unstoppable mission. (Scripture: Acts 1:1-11)

The Weeping In Bethlehem

Sun, 26 Dec 2021 09:30:09 GMT

Upon hearing a new “king of the Jews” had been born, King Herod was afraid his rule would be threatened. When he tried and failed to discover the child’s identity, he resorted to mass murder. He ordered the slaughter of all the male children in Bethlehem. This horrible story reminds us of another king. Over a thousand years earlier, when the Israelites were slaves in Egypt, Pharaoh order the slaughter of the male children. But just as God had done before, he was planning an exodus. This would be an even great exodus, lead by One even greater than Moses. God loves to set his people free and wipe every tear from their eyes. (Scripture: Matthew 2:13-18)

No Room for the Messiah

Sun, 19 Dec 2021 09:30:12 GMT

Mary and Joseph were descendants of royalty, but you probably wouldn’t have guessed it if you had seen them. A descendant of David had not occupied the throne for hundreds of years and the land of Judah was ruled by foreigners. When Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem,the city of David, there was no room for them. Mary had to lay her newborn baby in a manger. The Messiah could not have had a more humble birth. But God loves to exalt the humble. Just when God’s people are at their lowest, God steps in to lift them up. (Scripture: Luke 2:1-7)

The Untamable Tongue

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 20:30:08 GMT

Scripture: James 3:1-12

Hurrying to See Family

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 09:30:21 GMT

Upon hearing the news of her’s and Elizabeth’s pregnancies, Mary hurried to see Elizabeth. Maybe she wanted to avoid the gossip of Nazareth, or wanted confirmation about the angel’s message, or wanted to support and encourage her relative. Regardless of her motives, there is little doubt Mary had plenty of questions and worries when she arrived at Elizabeth’s house. However, when she arrived, her worries soon turned to praise. God loves to turn our worries into praise. (Scripture: Luke 1:39-45)

Faith Without Works is Dead

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 20:30:06 GMT

Scripture: James 2:14-26

Stuck in a Shameful Situation

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 09:30:08 GMT

Joseph’s fiancé was pregnant. What was he to think? What was he to do? Joseph likely wondered how he could save face and how he could help Mary do the same. But God was about to do something incredible. In our lives, we all have to endure similar situations. Whether through our choices or someone else’s, we will all find ourselves stuck in a shameful situation. The Good News is, God loves to turn our shame into honor. (Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25)

The Sin of Partiality

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 20:30:55 GMT

Scripture: James 2:1-13

Content with What You Have

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 09:30:32 GMT

People have always tended to accumulate wealth not only for pleasure, but also for protection. Wealth often represents a sense of safety and security. However, not only is this a false sense of security, it is also the essence of idolatry. Followers of Jesus must refuse to put our faith in the false god of wealth. This is why the Hebrew writer contrasts “the love of money” with statements like, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear” (Psalm 118:6). Faith in the Lord is the only way to be content. (Scripture: Hebrews 13:5-6)

Godliness with Contentment

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 09:30:21 GMT

Not unlike today, there were plenty of people in the First Century who used religion as a way of trying to become wealthy. Paul condemned the pursuit of material wealth and commended a life of contentment. He said that a life of “godliness with contentment” was the truly wealthy life. What would it look like for us to take seriously Paul’s warnings about desiring to be rich and the love of money? What would it look like to truly be content with “food and clothing”? What might be the consequence of disregarding this admonition? (Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:6-10)

Hearing and Doing the Word

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 20:30:17 GMT

Scripture: James 1:19-27

Content in Every Situation

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 09:30:33 GMT

When Paul wrote the book of Philippians, he was in prison. To help him in during this difficult time, the Christians in Philippi sent him a gift. He thanked them for the gift, but also used the opportunity to explain that he had “learned in whatever situation…to be content.” If Paul was starving in a lonely prison cell, he was content. If Paul was eating a bountiful meal in the home of dear friends, he was content. Paul can teach us this “secret” for being content in every situation, because the same Christ who gave him strength, gives us strength as well. (Scripture: Philippians 4:10-13)

Testing of Your Faith

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 20:30:00 GMT

Scripture: James 1:1-18

My Grace is Sufficient for You

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 09:30:33 GMT

Paul was plagued with many hardships, including what he called, “a thorn…in the flesh.” There is much debate about what this “thorn” was. Whatever it was, Paul desperately pleaded for its removal. In spite of his prayers, the “thorn” persisted. However, Paul gained something even greater than relief from his pain, contentment. Paul’s struggle can help us find contentment when we are struggling with difficult circumstances. From his struggle, we can learn that the grace of Jesus is sufficient for us as well. (Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10)

Brighter Together

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 20:05:52 GMT

Treating every individual we contact as a unique, made-in-the-image-of-God human being who was deemed worthy of our Savior’s sacrifice and who has spiritual potential that could be more fully-realized through fellowship with our congregation
Using our position in our community, the talent we possess, and the financial resources we receive to maximize the positive impact we can have in the Kingdom
By always being true to our Mission, Vision, and Purpose, we facilitate transformational growth, authentic discipleship, and an eternal perspective with each soul entrusted to our care

The Exile

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 09:15:23 GMT

When humanity ate the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, they were immediately filled with shame and regret. When God appeared, his judgement was swift and difficult to bear. Humanity was exiled from Eden, cut off from the tree of life and the presence of God. But even in his judgement, there was mercy and hope. What does humanity’s exile from Eden teach us about sin? about God’s judgement? about redemption? about humanity’s future return to Eden? (Scripture: Genesis 3:22-24)

The Fall

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 09:15:00 GMT

When Adam and Eve ate the "forbidden fruit" it affected more than their relationship with God. Their sin affected their relationship with one another as well. Their once harmonious and loving union became filled with shame, blame, and competing interests. Those relationship problems have been passed down not only to married couples but to every human relationship. All of our relationships have has been corrupted by the sin of our flesh. Thankfully, Jesus is working, in the Spirit, to restore the unity and harmony we had in Eden. (Scripture: Genesis 3:8-13)

Commitment to Being Good Stewards and Shepherding the Flock

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 20:10:09 GMT

Doing everything with excellence, while using our talent and creativity to engage our members and our community without feeling pressured to follow every trend
Being appropriately responsive to our planting vision and the investment and sacrifice made on our behalf by our planting church
Living within our means, using debt responsibly, and targeting debt freedom

The Serpent

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 09:15:59 GMT

There was a “crafty” and deceitful creature in Eden, the serpent. The serpent tempted Eve to eat “the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” He directly contradicted God, saying Eve would not die by eating the fruit, but would become “like God, knowing good and evil.” What does this story teach us about temptation? about sin? about lies? about our deceitful adversary? (Scripture: Genesis 3:1-7)

Active Congregational Involvement in Responding to the Great Commission

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 20:30:45 GMT

Encouraging personal evangelism through teaching the gospel within the context of an authentic relationship
Personal evangelism, formal missions work, and spiritual acts of service in local, regional, and global contexts as appropriate
Balancing our dedication to continually restoring our congregational practices according to New Testament commands and patterns while maintaining a gracious and loving attitude toward all believers

The Man and Woman

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 09:30:33 GMT

The first thing that was “not good” in Eden was humanity’s loneliness. But God graciously made “a helper fit for him.” After God divided humanity into two parts, male and female, he reunited them and made them “one flesh.” What does this account teach us about relationships? about gender? about marriage? about family? (Scripture: Genesis 2:18-25)

A New Testament Congregational Governance Model

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 20:30:39 GMT

Plurality of appointed male elders, each performing all three governing functions (elder, pastor, overseer) with appointed male deacons and evangelists
Active support of Biblical male spiritual servant leadership in our church and homes through consistent, visible example, teaching, development, and communication

The Trees of Eden

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 09:15:08 GMT

In Eden, God graciously provided humanity (his image-bearer) with many tress. These trees were “pleasant to the sight and good for food.” Two of those trees were of particular importance: the “tree of life” and “the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” The second tree was the only tree from which humanity was not to eat. What does this opening scene teach us about God? about humanity? and about the primary choice we face? (Scripture: Genesis 2:5-9)

Entering a Covenant Relationship with Our Creator and Savior

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 20:30:52 GMT

Go Teach All Nations

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 09:15:57 GMT

Mission Sunday (Scripture: Acts 11:19-24)

Commitment to Being a Distinct Yet Biblical Church

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 20:15:17 GMT

Delivering Sunday morning worship services that encourage universal participation, consistently including communion, prayer, scripture reading, singing, teaching/exhortation, and offering
Honoring acapella music as the only appropriate model for our corporate worship

The Greatest Among You

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 09:15:05 GMT

Like many of us, the Pharisees were concerned about titles and status. They wanted to receive the honor they felt they were due. But status and title are traps laid for us by the evil one. Jesus uses the Pharisees’ desire for honor as an introduction to seven “woes” that he pronounces upon them. Jesus was warning that their desire for greatness would lead to their ruin and destruction. So, if we want to avoid the fate of the Pharisees, we must allow Jesus to reshape the way we think about greatness. (Scripture: Matthew 23:1-11)

Commitment to Our Vision and Mission - Part 2

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 20:30:51 GMT

Offering Bible classes at all age levels across multiple meeting times each week
Providing relevant and engaging lessons from the pulpit that ”bring the Bible to life” by combining Biblical teaching with practical application
Encouraging and facilitating consistent Bible study in our homes
Supporting and equipping our youth with relevant and engaging programs and services that intentionally embed Biblical teaching opportunities

Whoever Would Be Great

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 09:15:52 GMT

Zebedee’s wife, the mother of James and John, wanted what nearly every mother wants, the success of her children. She wanted her children to have good seats at an important table. So, she boldly asked Jesus for her sons to have the seats of honor in his kingdom. But the seats of honor in Jesus’ kingdom look radically different than the seats of honor in the world. Do we really know what we’re asking for when we ask the Lord to make us great? (Scripture: Matthew 20:20-28)

Commitment to Our Vision and Mission - Part 1

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 20:30:57 GMT

Honoring the Bible as the inspired, complete, inerrant Word of God to be used for instruction, correction, and engaging the lost

The Greatest in the Kingcom

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 09:20:05 GMT

Jesus’ disciples (not unlike us) were very concerned with the question, “Who is the greatest?” In nearly every area of life, we try to determine and assign greatness. Consequently, it makes sense to ask, “What actually makes a person great? Is is skill, ability, wisdom, spirituality, or self-discipline?” Jesus’ answer to these questions—and the person he exalts as an example of greatness—is still shocking 2,000 years later. (Scripture: Matthew 18:1-6)

God’s Hand In Starting This Congregation

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 20:15:02 GMT

An overview of our history and the principles that were in place to begin and sustain our growth at this location

If You Confess, You Will Be Saved

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 09:10:18 GMT

Sadly, a lot of the religious world is under the impression that if a person merely confesses Christ, or prays a sinner’s prayer, they are saved. It is easy to come to that conclusion when verses like Romans 10:10 are read in isolation, but the context paints quite a different picture. When Paul speaks of confessing Christ, he doesn’t mean a one-time confession. Romans 10 will challenge and encourage even longtime disciples. (Scripture: Romans 10:8-13)

Renewing Our Prayer Life

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 20:10:51 GMT

Everything Happens for a Reason

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 09:15:37 GMT

The phrase, “Everything happens for a reason” is not actually found in the Bible. It is somewhat similar to what Paul’s words, “For those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Even though Paul’s point in Romans 8 is quite different than “everything happens for a reason,” his actual meaning is even more encouraging than this oft-repeated phrase.

Renewing Our Unity

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 20:30:40 GMT

Work Out Your Own Salvation

Sun, 15 Aug 2021 09:30:25 GMT

When Christians cannot reach an agreement on a particular issue, someone will often say, “We each have to work out our own salvation,” as if to say we all have to figure issues out for ourselves. Not only is this a misunderstanding of Philippians 2:12, it actually contradicts Paul’s overall message. None of us are supposed to blaze our own spiritual path, but rather live together as a church family in a way that is in keeping with our salvation. (Scripture: Philippians 2:12-13)

Renewing Our Mission

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 20:05:29 GMT

Don't Forsake the Assembly

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 09:20:10 GMT

There is no doubt Christians should assemble with one another to learn, edify, and worship. However, we are probably too quick to accuse our brothers and sisters of “forsaking the assembly” for missing a Bible study or worship service. There is much we can learn from Hebrews about what actually constitutes forsaking the assembly and how to encourage and motivate Christians to assemble with their church family.

Renewing Our Love for the Lost

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 20:20:03 GMT

I Know the Plans I Have for You

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 09:30:16 GMT

One of the biggest mistakes we make when we read Scripture is reading it through an individualistic lens. We want to believe God has our individual lives all planned out, complete with health and prosperity. However, Jeremiah 29:11 was about God’s plans for future generations of Jews (the immediate generation to whom Jeremiah was writing would die in exile). But there is still an incredibly encouraging message for us in the plans God has for his people. (Scripture: Jeremiah 29:10-14)

Renewing Our Identity

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 20:30:39 GMT

The Table as a Reversal of Status

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 09:15:13 GMT

The unbelieving world defines the person reclining at table as greater than the one serving him. However, Jesus turns everything upside down and reverses everyone’s status. Jesus associates himself not with the person who is sitting in a seat of honor, but the one serving the needs of others. Do we ever find ourselves, like the disciples, arguing over who is “to be regarded as the greatest”? How does spending time at Jesus’ table help us see the world as Jesus sees it? (Scripture (Luke 22:24-30)

Renewing Our Focus

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 20:20:32 GMT

The Table as a Remembrance of Covenant

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 09:30:26 GMT

Jesus and the disciples share a Passover meal with one another. This meal was an annual reminder of God’s covenant love for them and their covenant responsibilities. However, Jesus used this occasion to redefine the meal and center it on a new covenant God was making with his people. When you share the bread and cup with the church, do you reflect on God’s covenant love and your covenant responsibilities? Do we take seriously enough the significance of sharing this bread and cup? (Scripture: Luke 22:14-20)

Renewing Our Hospitality

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 20:30:33 GMT

The Table as a Rebuke of Misplaced Priorities

Sun, 11 Jul 2021 09:25:39 GMT

In Last week’s text, we saw Jesus eating with tax collectors and being scolded by Pharisees. But this week we find Jesus reclining at table with Pharisees and experts in the Law. Jesus used this dinner party as an occasion to challenge and rebuke their misplaced priorities. What can we learn from Jesus’ teaching in this text? How might we use our own table to prioritize love and justice? (Scripture: Luke 11:37-44)

Renewing our Contentment

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 20:30:26 GMT

The Table as an Invitation to Repentance

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 09:15:20 GMT

We can scarcely comprehend how despised tax collectors were in first century Israel. So, when religious leaders saw Jesus “reclining at table” with a “large company of tax collectors,” they were upset and questioned him. Where do we find ourselves in this story? What can we learn from Jesus’ answer to the Pharisees? What would it look like for us to model Jesus’ behavior in this story? (Scripture Luke 5:27-32)

Meeting God

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 09:15:47 GMT

(Scripture: Isaiah 6:1-8)

Renewing Our Joy

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 20:30:31 GMT

Growing in Love

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 09:15:55 GMT

In our final lesson of this series, we will discuss the word that should be the distinguishing characteristic of every Christian and every Christian home, love. Are our homes a place where love is emphasized? Are we growing in love towards one another, our neighbors, and even our enemies? (Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3-8)

Renewing Our Walk

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 20:30:03 GMT

Growing in Brotherly Affection

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 09:30:08 GMT

The Christian home should be a place where we are constantly growing in “brotherly affection,” towards one another and towards others. What is “brotherly affection” and how can our homes emphasize growth in this area? (Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3-8)

Renewing Our Hope for the Future

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 20:30:04 GMT

Growing in Godliness

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 09:20:24 GMT

Godliness is about being devoted to God in reverence and piety. In many ways, the Christian home should be a miniature version of the church. Just as Bible studies, prayers, and praise are a regular part of “church life,” they should also be part of “family life.” What can we do to make sure our homes are growing in godliness? (Scripture 2 Peter 1:3-8)

Renewing Our Belief

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 20:30:14 GMT

Growing in Steadfastness

Sun, 30 May 2021 09:15:09 GMT

The Christian life is not a sprint, but a marathon. Our families need to be training for the marathon of Christian living, so we have the ability to “go the distance” and remain faithful until we each cross the finish line. What are we doing in our homes to help one another develop steadfastness? (Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3-8)

Perfection

Wed, 26 May 2021 20:10:53 GMT

Growing in Self-control

Sun, 23 May 2021 09:15:14 GMT

Within every human heart are passions, desires, and impulses of the flesh. These must be restrained if we wish to keep ourselves from sin. The strength required for this restraint requires spiritual exercise, training, and discipline. What sort of spiritual training is happening in our homes so we can become more self-controlled families? (Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3-8)

Wrath

Wed, 19 May 2021 20:10:12 GMT

Growing in Knowledge

Sun, 16 May 2021 09:15:14 GMT

A Christian home should be a place of curiosity, wonder, and learning. What fosters a spirit of learning and what hampers a spirit of learning? How can we encourage one another to be growing in knowledge? (Scripture 2 Peter 1:3-8)

Jealousy

Wed, 12 May 2021 20:30:04 GMT

Growing in Virtue

Sun, 09 May 2021 09:15:02 GMT

Peter encourages his readers to add to their faith virtue. The word “virtue” refers to a person of unusually excellent character, an upstanding citizen, or a model member of the community. What defines Christian virtue and how is virtue taught, modeled, encouraged, and expected in our homes? (Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3-8)

Righteousness and Justice

Wed, 05 May 2021 20:30:30 GMT

Earthly Focus vs. Heavenly Focus: Part 2

Sun, 02 May 2021 09:30:05 GMT

Paul tells the Colossian Christians to, “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” What does this mean and what does it look like in our everyday life? How can we help serve the needs around us if our minds are on constantly on “things above”? (Scripture: Colossians 3:12-15)

Goodness

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 20:30:40 GMT

Earthly Focus vs. Heavenly Focus: Part 1

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 09:15:42 GMT

Love

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 20:30:23 GMT

God's Power Over Death

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 09:15:03 GMT

No passage in Scripture better explains the Christian perspective on life, death, and life after death than 1 Corinthians 15. Death is called “the last enemy to be destroyed” (vs. 26). When death is destroyed, God’s people will live forever with immortal and imperishable bodies. Even now, as we anticipate that Day, we abound in the work of the Lord, because we know our labor is not in vain. (Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:50-58)

Holiness

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 20:30:16 GMT

God's Perspective on Death

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 09:15:52 GMT

The psalmist says, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” Sadly, this verse is often quoted in a way that reflects the very opposite of its intended meaning. The psalmist does not mean God sees the death of his saints as a good thing. On the contrary, God recognizes the costliness of death; perhaps even more than we do. This is why God goes to such extraordinary lengths to rescue his people from death. (Scripture: Psalm 116:15-19)

Omniscience

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 20:30:03 GMT

God's Promise About Death

Sun, 04 Apr 2021 09:15:30 GMT

There is a beautiful song in Isaiah 25 that pictures a celebration feast, but that which the Lord is “swallowing up” isn’t food, but death itself. When he swallows up death, he will wipe away all of the tears from his people’s eyes and take away their reproach. How did Isaiah’s original audience understand this promise? How does the resurrection of Jesus tie into this promise? How should this promise shape the way we think about death and think about the future? (Scripture: Isaiah 25:6-8)

Work is Hevel

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 09:20:20 GMT

It seems like we ought to be able to build things that last, things that stand the test of time. If we work hard enough and smart enough, it seems like we should be able to build something that will not fade away. But as soon as our castle is built, we discover it too is made of sand. Our labor and toil, like everything else under the sun, is “hevel.” The Preacher counsels wise people to recognize the “hevel” of labor and look to the one who gives us gifts to enjoy. This gift giver is the one we must fix our eyes on, because he is doing a work that will last forever. (Scripture: Ecclesiasties 2:18-26)

Omnipotence

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 20:30:28 GMT

Self-indulgence is Hevel

Sun, 21 Mar 2021 09:15:48 GMT

The illusion of supreme happiness is always before us. We might think, after we eat a delicious meal, “I can now die a happy man,” but soon we forget that satisfied feeling and we are hungry again. The preacher of Ecclesiastes discovered the “hevel” of every pleasurable pursuit. It seems like there ought to be something that satisfies us completely and totally, but nothing ever does. We are always hungry again. But there is Good News: There is One who can satisfy our every longing; we must wait for his appearing by faith. (Scripture: Ecclesiastes 2:1-11)

Omnipresence

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 20:30:21 GMT

Wisdom is Hevel

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 09:15:19 GMT

The Preacher of Ecclesiastes applied himself to observing the world to figure out how it all works. You might say he become a philosopher and was determined to understand, “wisdom and knowledge” as well as “madness and folly.” But even in that pursuit there was frustration and sorrow, because human wisdom is also “hevel.” The more you think you’ve got a handle on wisdom, the more it slips through your fingers. But there is Good News: Even though humans may not be able to fully lay our hands on wisdom and knowledge, there is one who knows and understands everything; we must fix our eyes on him. (Scripture: Ecclesiastes 1:12-18)

Infinity and Aseity

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 20:30:05 GMT

Everything is Hevel

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 09:30:36 GMT

We have all experienced the frustration of seeing how things should be, but when we reach out and try to grab our expectations they often disappears in our hands like a cloud of smoke. The Hebrew word for smoke or vapor is “hevel,” and that is how the Preacher of Ecclesiastes describes everything on earth, “all is hevel.” There are some of us who naively continue chasing our expectations, some who’ve become disillusioned with the “hevel” of it all, and some who’ve discovered there really is Good News in the midst of all this “hevel.” (Scripture: Ecclesiastes 1:1-11)

Incomprehensible

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 20:30:05 GMT

Building Up the Body of Christ

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 09:15:33 GMT

Once again emphasizing the collective nature of the church and the collective responsibility of every Christian, Paul says that every saint should be equipped “for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” No congregation should see itself as having only one, or even a handful of “ministers.” Ministers are not just paid staff members. Every member of a congregation should see himself or herself as a minister, with the goal of making “the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” When each part of the body is working “properly,” love and growth will be the result. )Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-16)

Jesus - My Example as I Deal with Frustration and Anger

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 20:30:03 GMT

Tonight we discuss how Jesus dealt with anger and frustration by talking about him cleansing the temple. What does the cleansing of the temple teach us about Jesus? What does the cleansing of the temple teach us about the right way (or the wrong way) to get angry? This will be the final lesson in this series.

For the Common Good

Sun, 21 Feb 2021 09:15:32 GMT

Similar to his point in Romans 12, Paul again emphasizes that the church is like a body. The Spirit of God dwells in the collective body the way an individual’s spirit dwells in an individual. As the Spirit fills the church, he gives various gifts “for the common good” (vs. 7). So often, when we talk about the work of the Spirit, we think about what the Spirit does for each of us individually. But Paul’s emphasis is on what the Spirit does through us for the collective benefit. (Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:4-13)

Sharing the Bread and the Cup

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 09:15:55 GMT

If there was any first-century church that needed to be reminded of the collective nature of the church, it was the Corinthian church. They were a divided church and may have even struggled with some individualistic tendencies, living as if their individual behaviors did not impact the rest of the body. Some of the members of the Corinthian church were still flirting with idolatrous practices. Paul emphasized that participation in a ceremonial meal (whether the Lord’s Supper, Israel’s sacrifices, or idol feasts) binds you together with the other participants. When we share the bread and cup, we celebrate and solidify our oneness in Christ. (Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:16-17)

Jesus: My Example for Humility

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 20:30:37 GMT

Welcome to our Wednesday night class. We are discussing Jesus' example of humility. What does it mean to humble ourselves the way Jesus humbled himself? What is humility, according to the teachings and example of Jesus?

Individually Members of One Another

Sun, 07 Feb 2021 09:15:11 GMT

This is one of the passages in which Paul compares the church to the “body” of Christ. He acknowledges our individuality and our diversity, but says, “We, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another” (vs. 5). In other words, we all belong to each other and not only to ourselves. Our gifts, talents, and uniqueness belong to the other members of the body. It does not matter how talented a foot, hand, or finger may be, its talents all belong to the body and not to itself. (Scripture: Romans 12:3-8)

Jesus: My Example to Teach Me How to Lead

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 20:30:28 GMT

The Patience of Paul

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 09:20:46 GMT

Our final example of patience is that of the apostle Paul. Describing his life to Timothy, he used words like, “patience” and “endurance.” Paul suffered through imprisonment, stoning, beating, and ridicule from both believers and unbelievers. But he was not surprised that he was mistreated. He understood that suffering goes with the territory, saying, “All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” How can we adopt an attitude like Paul’s? It’s certainly not “okay" for people to mistreat us, but we must learn to be “okay” with it as we wait on the Lord. (Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:10-17)

Jesus: My Example to be Obedient

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 20:30:21 GMT

In this lesson, we discuss Jesus' obedience - how he prioritized his Father's will above his own. This study's scripture is Matthew 26:36-46.

The Patience of David

Sun, 24 Jan 2021 09:15:55 GMT

Surely David got tired of waiting for Saul’s reign to end. Surely he got tired of being hunted and chased. It must have crossed his mind that if he killed Saul, all of his running would be over and perhaps he could assume the throne even sooner. However, David refused to take a shortcut to God’s promises. He refused to raise his hand against God’s anointed king and chose rather to continue waiting patiently. As we wait for the end of sin and death, we must resist the temptation to take matters into our own hands. We must wait patiently for God. (Scripture: 1 Samuel 24:1-7)

Jesus: My Example to be Compassionate and Caring

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 20:30:27 GMT

We study Matthew 9 and Luke 15, Jesus eating with "tax collectors and sinners." We will discuss how Jesus is our example of how to show compassion and to whom we should be sharing compassion.

The Patience of Abraham

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 09:15:25 GMT

Faith is all about waiting for the fulfillment of God’s promises, always believing they will be fulfilled….even on days when it seems impossible. Abraham “patiently waited” for God to keep his promises, never seeming to lose hope that God would come through. The writer of Hebrews used the story of Abraham to encourage Christians to “patiently wait,” saying that our hope in God’s promises is the “sure and steadfast anchor of the soul." (Scripture: Hebrews 6:13-15)

Jesus - My Example for Endurance and Perserverance

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 20:30:17 GMT

In this lesson, we study Matthew 4, Jesus' temptation in the wilderness. We discuss how Jesus should be our example of endurance and perseverance.

The Patience of Job

Sun, 10 Jan 2021 09:15:10 GMT

When we think of the story of Job, we may not think of him as being “patient.” After all, he spent much of the story complaining about his situation and insisting he was being treated unfairly. But patience does not require us to remain silent about our situation. Rather, patience requires us to endure and persevere, to stick it out until the end. It’s okay to acknowledge that our situation feels unfair, but we must not give up. We must press on. In the end, like Job, our reward will be more than worth it. (Scripture: James 5:7-11)

Jesus - My Example for Prayer

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 20:30:41 GMT

Jesus did not spend all of his time teaching, preaching, healing, and helping. He had a regular practice of withdrawing to desolate places to pray. When we carry heavy burdens, we need to follow Jesus' example and carry them to God in prayer.

Fix Your Eyes on Jesus

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 09:15:59 GMT

The Jewish Christians to whom the Hebrew letter was written were suffering persecution. The persecution was causing their faith to waver and many had already abandoned the church. The audience is encouraged to keep their eyes on Jesus, no matter what storms they face, because he is the “pioneer and perfecter” (NIV) of our faith. We must learn to do the same. (Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-2)

John 3:16

Sun, 27 Dec 2020 09:20:12 GMT

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." (Scripture: John 3:16-21)

Joy to the World

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 09:15:57 GMT

Proverbs 29:2 says, “When the wicked rule, the people groan.” The world was groaning under the rule of wicked kings and kingdoms since the beginning of time…but then Jesus came to be king. All heaven and nature are invited now to receive their King and joyfully sing that he “rules the world with truth and grace.” When we use the word, “Gospel” this is the Good News we are referring to, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come.” (Scripture: Luke 2:8-14)

Jesus: My Example when I Need Strength and Courage

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 21:30:58 GMT

O Holy Night

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 09:15:03 GMT

This song pictures the world as “weary,” pining away for ages in “sin and error.” Until finally, the long night is broken by a “new and glorious morn.” As the day begins to break, and shed light on the world, the weary world rejoices with a “thrill of hope.” When we consider the Gospel, is our heart filled with that “thrill of hope”? When we consider the words of Mary’s song of praise, does our soul “magnify the Lord” with hers? Does our spirit rejoice in God our Savior? (Scripture: Luke 1:46-55)

Jesus: Learning from My Teacher

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 21:30:41 GMT

O Come, O Come Emmanuel

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 09:15:37 GMT

This song is so rich in biblical imagery. It is a song of Israel’s longing and anticipation, waiting for Emmanuel, the Rod of Jesse, the Day-Spring, the Key of David, and the Lord of might. The one who would ransom captive Israel, free them from Satan’s tyranny, disperse the gloomy clouds of night, and close the path to misery. When the angel announced to Joseph about the coming child, he confirmed that Jesus would be the One to do all of these things, that he would be “Immanuel…God with us.” (Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25)

Discipline: How the Church Deals with Sin

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 20:30:40 GMT

On Wednesday evenings, we have talked a lot about navigating difficult issues and culture influences as Christians. We have spent a significant amount of time talking about love, unity, understanding, and patience. But it's important to also recognize the need for discipline, the need to hold people accountable to a certain standard. So, in this lesson we will talk about who Christians should discipline and how Christians should discipline.

Remember His Wondrous Works

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 09:30:05 GMT

God’s people have always been shaped by “remembrance.” When we remember what he has done in the past, we are emboldened to trust in the present and the future. This is one thing that should motivate our Bible study, not just knowing facts or rules, but knowing who God is and what he has done. We should study the Bible as those who are saying, “Teach me trust me to trust you even more.”

Serve the Lord with Gladness

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 09:15:31 GMT

One of the most important words, and character traits of God, in the Hebrew Bible is “hesed.” Though there is no exact equivalent word in English, it means God is faithful, benevolent, and kind to his people. God’s “hesed” should not only fill our hearts with gladness and joy, it should shape our theology. It should shape the assumptions about how God will act in the future. (Scripture: Psalms 100:1-5)

The World Needs to See the Church's Love

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 20:30:32 GMT

In our divided and polarized world, the church's love for one another, for our neighbors, and even for our enemies is incredibly important. But what does love really look like? Are we really loving people? Using 1 Corinthians 13, Wes McAdams encourages us to examine ourselves to see whether or not we are actually loving one another.

Come, Let Us Sing to the Lord

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 09:15:40 GMT

Thanksgiving inoculates our hearts against doubt. The people of the wilderness generation doubted God, they “went astray in their hearts” because they failed to truly reflect on all the works they had seen God do on their behalf. If we continually “sing to the Lord” and “come into his presence with thanksgiving,” we will be able to enter his rest. (Scripture: Psalms 95:1-11)

Be at Peace Among Yourselves

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 20:30:36 GMT

Wes McAdams takes a break from the regularly scheduled lessons to talk about living at peace, respecting overseers, admonishing the idle, encouraging the fainthearted, helping the weak, being patient with everyone, and doing good anytime we have the opportunity to do so. To navigate our current circumstances, we must embrace Paul's words to the church in Thessalonica.

It Is Good to Give Thanks

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 09:15:38 GMT

The fact that God has brought down evildoers, and exalted the righteous, in the past is evidence he will do so in the future. So, we look back to every example of God’s uprightness—Noah, Abraham, David, Daniel—and give thanks. In giving thanks for who God has proven himself to be, we have confidence about our present and our future. So, no matter what’s happening in the world, the right response is to sing praises to “give thanks to the Lord.” (Scripture: Psalms 92:1-15)

A Uniquely Christian View of Sexuality and Sexual Ethics

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 20:30:11 GMT

Over the next few weeks, in our Current Events series, Wes will be discussing sexuality from a Christian perspective. How does Jesus teach his people to guard and exercise their sexuality? In this introductory lesson, Wes McAdams and Wayne Roberts discuss the following questions:

1. Followers of Jesus should have a very different perception of sex and sexuality than unbelievers. How would you describe a uniquely Christian view of sexuality?
2. How can the church be a place of grace, offering acceptance and forgiveness to those who’ve sinned sexually, while still maintaining a high standard of sexual ethics?
3. What advice would you have for Christians on exercising and guarding their sexuality in a way that brings glory to God?

In addition to these questions, we also consider what it means for our body to be a temple of the Holy Spirit and how that truth should help shape our sexual ethics.

I Will Give Thanks to You

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 09:15:42 GMT

Whether it be the politics, pandemic, or protests, this year has given us plenty of moments to say, “In the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by.” The Psalms teach us to give thanks for the rescuing God has done in the past, so we can have confidence for the present and future storms. We don’t know what the future holds, but we know God’s “steadfast love is great to the heavens” and his “faithfulness to the clouds.” (Scripture: Psalms 57:1-11)

Diversity and Unity: Finding Common Ground

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 20:30:26 GMT

In this final discussion on race and unity, Wes McAdams and Aaron Appleby discuss these questions:

1. What are some of the (positive and/or negative) experiences you've had that have helped shape your perspective on race relations in the church?
2. How, in your opinion, does a Christian call for unity differ from the world's call for unity?
3. What are some things every Christian can do to help promote unity within the congregation and within the church as a whole?

These Are the Days of Elijah

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 14:24:54 GMT

When Ahab and Jezebel ruled over Israel and the land was plagued with drought, there were some, like Elijah, who bravely spoke truth to power. There were some, like Obadiah, who worked quietly behind the scenes. There were others, like 100 prophets, who simply hid in a cave. During challenging times, we all need to be reminded that others don't have to respond to the crisis exactly like us in order to be faithful to God.

Having Better Conversations About Race and Racism

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 20:30:16 GMT

For the last few weeks we have been discussing how we deal with racial strife and tensions that exist both in the world and even in the church. One of the problems is that these conversations themselves sometimes lead to less unity instead of greater unity. Rather than listening to one another, we end up accusing one another or being dismissive of one another. Consequently, because these conversations often end with hurt feelings and regret, we often choose to avoid conversations about race.

But that’s not healthy either. We’ve made progress in this area and there is still progress that needs to be made. The only way to do so is to have more conversations and have the right kind of conversations. That’s what I hope tonight’s discussion will empower us to do, have better conversations.

My guest tonight is Melvin Otey, a former federal prosecutor and an Associate Professor of Law at Faulkner University. I was very blessed by this conversation and I hope you are as well.

Rest

Sun, 18 Oct 2020 09:20:30 GMT

The idea of Sabbath, taking one full day out of seven to rest, must have seemed absurd in the ancient world. And it may still be seen as absurd today. Some of us spend so much time working that we’ve convinced ourselves the world would fall apart if we slowed down; and some of us play so hard when we’re not working, that it hardly resembles rest at all. We need to be intentional about not just resting from work, but resting from being busy. We have to allow ourselves time—every week—to slow down and remember that God is at work and we have eternity to enjoy God’s blessings. Resting reminds us that we don’t have to try to squeeze everything into this vapor of a life. (Scripture: Genesis 2:1-3)

The Gospel (Not Time) Heals All Wounds: Dealing with the Effects of Slavery in America

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 20:30:23 GMT

They say time heals all wounds, but I don’t believe that. Wounds need to be treated, not ignored. When a wound is ignored and left untreated, it festers over time. Sin harms individuals, families, communities, and whole nations. Over time, the wounds caused by sin can continue to affect future generations. As one example, slavery may have been abolished in the United States 150 years ago, but our society is still grappling with the consequences today. Time and worldly solutions are no match for the hurt and destruction sin causes. The Gospel is the only solution for the wounds that run so deep. That’s why I want to invite you to listen to a conversation I had with Dr. Corey Markum, history professor from Freed Hardeman University. He offers his unique insight to help us understand how our context has been shaped and how we might navigate this current context as followers of Jesus. I hope you find this conversation helpful.

Work

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 14:47:56 GMT

Perhaps contrary to popular opinion, work was not a result of the Fall. Adam was originally tasked with work in the Garden of Eden before he ate the fruit. Humans are designed and destined to work. While work can certainly be done in a spiritually and emotionally unhealthy way, it should not be seen as a “necessary evil,” but a God-honoring use of skills, resources, and talents. In nearly every profession—whether it is collecting garbage or organizing numbers on a screen—there is a way to “image” God’s goodness in the way we help bring order to a chaotic world. Are we intentional with our time and our thinking as it pertains to our work. (Scripture: Genesis 2:15-22)

One Race or Many? A Gospel-centered Approach to Unity

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 20:30:54 GMT

Antwan Brown, from the Azalea Dr. Church of Christ in Charleston, South Carolina, joins Wes McAdams tonight to discuss these questions: 1. Does the Bible teach that there is really only one race, the human race? And if so, does that mean we should stop talking about racial problems? 2. As it pertains to the church truly acting like a multiethnic, multinational, multilingual family, what positives and negatives have you seen? 3. How can Christians, of any ethnicity, help strengthen unity within the church?

Worship

Sun, 04 Oct 2020 09:30:40 GMT

David Foster Wallace once said, “There is no such thing as not worshipping. Everybody worships. The only choice we get is what to worship.” When we do not intentionally make time in our week to worship God, we inevitably spend our week worshiping other things. Worshiping God puts everything into perspective. Something this important deserves more than one hour of our week. Throughout the week, how much time do we really devote to things like prayer, singing, reflection, and discussion about the greatness of our God? (Scripture: Psalms 29:1-11)

Fighting the Good Fight - How Christians Strive for a Better World

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 20:30:03 GMT

In this episode of our "Current Events" series, Wes McAdams visits with Tennessee State Representative John DeBerry about how we strive for the causes we believe in with love and without compromise. Our text for this episode is from Ephesians 6, which teaches us who we are fighting and how we are to be fighting.

That Time is Past

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 09:10:19 GMT

Peter wants his audience to understand that their old life doesn’t make sense in their new context. In fact, once you come to know Jesus, it’s hard to believe you used to live the life you once lived. But when you’re in the midst of that old life, it’s the only thing you know. Chances are, there are still things you’re doing that you’ll look back on and say, “I can’t believe I ever did that.” But the only way to get to that point is to make better decisions today than you made yesterday…you’ll be glad you did. (Scripture: 1 Peter 4:1-6)

Bridge-Builders and Peacemakers: Living in a Divided Culture

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 20:30:56 GMT

In tonight's "Current Events" discussion, Wes McAdams visits with Shelton Gibbs IV, Judge Elect from Kaufman County, Texas. They discuss how, as Christians, we should strive to make peace in our divided and polarized world.

No Longer Walk as the Gentiles Do

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 09:20:11 GMT

Paul encourages the Ephesian Christians to remember who they had been, how they had been transformed by Christ, and how they had been enlightened by the truth. Because of their transformation and their new identity, it would no longer make sense to live as they used to live when they were Gentiles. Look to the future and ask yourself, “On the day of redemption, what will you wish you did today?” Live as a new creation…you’ll be glad you did. (Scripture: Ephesians 4:17-24)

Submission and Disobedience: The Christian and the Government

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 20:00:21 GMT

Over the last few weeks we’ve discussed faith and politics. Specifically, how Christians are exiles and sojourners in this country (or any country). We’ve talked about how we need to avoid becoming detached and becoming entangled. It’s impossible to talk about politics without talking about citizenship, government, authority, obedience, and submission. Whether we’re talking about 1st century Christians in Rome or 21st century Christians in the United States, this is an important and challenging conversation. My guest tonight is Dr. Jared Saltz, professor at Florida College. He is going to share with us some important historical and cultural context to help us understand the proper relationship Christians should have with the government. I hope you find this conversation as helpful as I did. We also study and discuss Romans 12:14 - Romans 13:7 and 1 Peter 2:13-25.

What Fruit Were You Getting?

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 09:10:04 GMT

Paul encourages the Roman Christians to consider their past life and how fruitless it was; their present freedom is the result of their turning away from that fruitless life. But their future life will be determined by the decisions they make right now, in the present. So, they must choose to make themselves slaves to righteousness in the present so that they might experience sanctification in the future. If you want to experience further sanctification, you must choose right now to make yourself a slave of righteousness…you’ll be glad you did. (Scripture: Romans 6:20-23)

Discernment and Discretion: What to Believe and What to Share

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 20:30:26 GMT

In this lesson, Wes McAdams interviews Dr. Brian Simmons, Professor of Communication, about the role of journalism in the political process, how Christians can be more discerning, and what Christians should consider before sharing things online. Wes also leads a study of Ephesians 4:25-32.

You Reap What You Sow

Sun, 06 Sep 2020 09:05:50 GMT

We never plant seeds simply because it’s what we want to do. We plant seeds because it is what we want to have done. In the future, when we harvest our crop, we want to be able to look back at the present and say, “I’m sure glad I planted those seeds.” The same principle applies in our spiritual lives. We must think ahead to the time of harvest and ask, “What will I wish that I had sown?” When you “sow to please the Spirit,” the longterm benefits far outweigh the short-term sacrifices; and someday you will look back and you’ll be glad you did. (Scripture: Galatians 6:7-10)

Christians and Politics: Living in Community

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 21:00:10 GMT

In this introductory lesson, Wes McAdams interviews Dr. Trey Orndorff, political scientist, professor at Oklahoma Christian University, and co-host of the Politics Guys Podcast. Dr. Orndorff defines politics and gives encouragement for how Christians can better engage in political conversations. Wes also discusses Jeremiah 29 and what it means to live as an exile in our country.

The House's Foundation

Sun, 30 Aug 2020 10:00:37 GMT

Everyone thinks their house is probably fine…until a storm comes and reveals either the strength or the weakness of the foundation. Many of us go blindly through life thinking everything is fine, until we encounter a trial. It’s better to examine the foundation now and discover whether or not we are actually building our life on the foundation of Jesus’ words. (Scripture: Matthew 7:24-27)

Lord, Lord

Sun, 23 Aug 2020 09:30:37 GMT

Jesus says there is going to be confusion and bewilderment on the Day of Judgement. He says that “many” people will be shocked they are not counted among the faithful and are condemned. These people will have been those who did things in Jesus’ name, but Jesus didn’t actually know them. To be known by Jesus on the last day requires we are doing the Father’s will on this day. Before we get too busy doing more stuff in Jesus’ name, let’s ask ourselves if we’re actually doing the Father’s will. (Scripture: Matthew 7:21-23)

Titus

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 20:30:51 GMT

Bearing Good Fruits

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 09:20:38 GMT

Jesus said a false teacher could be recognized by their fruits. Obviously, there is a time and place to examine the fruit of another person’s life, but we must first examine our own life. Have there been times when we have claimed to be a grapevine, but our fruit says we are really a thornbush? If we really examined the fruit of our life, what would it say about our spiritual health? (Scripture: Matthew 7:15-20)

2 Timothy

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 20:45:26 GMT

What You Wish Others Would Do

Sun, 09 Aug 2020 14:25:02 GMT

It’s so easy to sit and think about what we wish others would do for us. We wish people would be more complementary, less critical, more helpful, or more understanding. But maybe it’s time we spent less time thinking about how we are treated and more time thinking about how we can proactively do those sorts of things for others. (Scripture: Matthew 7:12-14)

1 Timothy

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 20:30:58 GMT

A Log in Your Eye

Sun, 02 Aug 2020 09:45:48 GMT

When we evaluate the current state of affairs in our world and we contemplate how things can be made better, we might think the next step is telling others where they’re going wrong. However, Jesus says the next step is probably taking the log out of our own eye. Let’s spend some time thinking about what “logs” may be in our own eyes, obscuring our vision; and how we might remove those logs. (Scripture: Matthew 7:1-5)

1 and 2 Thessalonians

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 20:30:26 GMT

Meditation

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 11:50:38 GMT

Jesus encourages his disciples to “look” at the birds of the air and “consider” the lilies of the field. Meditating on the way God cares for his creation will give us insight into God’s care for the pinnacle of his creation, human beings. Meditating on God’s nature, God’s promises, and God’s kingdom will help ease our anxieties about life. In this lesson we will explore the importance of meditating not on our inner self, but on our heavenly Father who loves us and cares for us.

Colossians

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 20:30:05 GMT

Fasting

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 17:05:27 GMT

There is certainly a wrong way and a wrong motivation for fasting, but there is also an expectation that God’s people will spend time fasting. After all, Jesus doesn’t say, “If you fast,”but rather, “When you fast.” In this lesson we will explore why fasting is important and how fasting might help take your relationship with the Father to a new level.

Philippians

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 20:30:59 GMT

Solitude and Prayer

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 12:00:35 GMT

How do we practice the discipline of prayer? Are our prayer times primarily within the context of group prayers with family and the church? Or do we cherish personal, alone time with God? How often do we practice Jesus’ words, “Go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret”? In this lesson we will explore the discipline and benefit of solitude and prayer.

Ephesians

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 20:30:26 GMT

Giving and Serving

Sun, 05 Jul 2020 12:00:13 GMT

Jesus calls giving to the needy, “practicing your righteousness.” Have we ever stopped to think about generosity that way, as practicing righteousness? Similar to the way a doctor practices medicine, God’s people are to practice righteousness. In this lesson we will explore what Jesus says concerning the right ways and wrong ways to practice righteousness and how generosity a spiritual discipline that affects your relationship with your heavenly Father?

Galatians

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 20:00:14 GMT

God's Word is Calling You

Sun, 28 Jun 2020 16:55:56 GMT

We explore the opportunity we have had, and continue to have, to read and study our Bibles during our recent "stay at home" period.

2 Corinthians

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 01:26:35 GMT

Loving Our Enemies

Sun, 21 Jun 2020 11:45:11 GMT

The kingdoms of the earth hate and destroy their enemies, but the people of Jesus’ kingdom love and bless their enemies. This is one of the primary distinctions between heaven’s kingdom and other kingdoms, so how are enemies treated and talked about in your home?

1 Corinthians

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 01:15:31 GMT

Keeping Our Word

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 17:16:08 GMT

Lying, deceiving, and misleading people is part of the accepted way of doing business in the kingdoms of the world. However, Jesus calls the people of his kingdom to be people of truth, who say what is true and follow through on what they pledge to do. What does your family do to uphold a standard of truth?

Romans - What Does the Holy Spirit Do for Christians?

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 20:30:48 GMT

Controlling Our Desires

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 17:17:27 GMT

Our world teaches us that our heart should call the shots; if we want to do something or we feel like doing something, then we should follow our heart. Jesus, on the other hand, teaches kingdom people to control their eyes, their hearts, their bodies and their minds. Is your family reinforcing a message of “follow your heart” or “control your heart”?

Kicking Against the Goads - An Introduction to Paul

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 01:35:42 GMT

An introduction to the 2020 Summer Series on Paul's letters

Prioritizing Reconciliation

Sun, 31 May 2020 12:00:31 GMT

Jesus tells his followers to prioritize reconciliation above worship. If someone is angry with us, or we are angry with someone else, that becomes the priority even above offering a gift to God. Is it clear in your home that anger, bitterness, and resentment have no place and reconciliation takes priority? (Scripture: Matthew 5:21-26)

Wrap-up Conversation

Wed, 27 May 2020 21:00:26 GMT

What have we learned from this series of lessons on friendship? What actions have been taken in our lives? What are some of the biggest potential pitfalls and some of the potential rewards?

Knowing Our Story

Sun, 24 May 2020 11:55:24 GMT

Jesus explains, in the Sermon on the Mount, that his goal is to fulfill rather than abolish the Law and the Prophets. He is saying his ministry is part of that story. If we are followers of Jesus, our lives are also part of the story of the Law and Prophets. Are we teaching that big picture story in our homes? Are we helping our families embrace their role in the story?

Limits and Boundaries

Wed, 20 May 2020 21:00:59 GMT

What can I reasonably expect of myself here? How do I balance my responsibility to reach out to new friends with my needs to be supported by my existing friends?

Embracing Our Mission

Sun, 17 May 2020 17:32:22 GMT

As a family, what is our mission? What are we trying to be in the world? What are we trying to accomplish in the world? Jesus defines the mission of kingdom families as being “salt” and “light.” What does it look like to be a family of light or a family of salt?

Developing Consistency

Wed, 13 May 2020 20:15:29 GMT

We must develop habits like checking in on friends and following up on difficult conversations, because the friends who stand beside us through life’s storms are the friends in whom we consistently invest.

Redefining "Blessed"

Sun, 10 May 2020 11:50:40 GMT

In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus redefines what it means to have the “blessed life.” The blessed life is a kingdom life; and a kingdom life is the very opposite of the earthly definition of a “blessed life.” So, how is “blessed” defined in our families?

Taking Responsibility

Wed, 06 May 2020 20:30:42 GMT

It is our responsibility to make things right, not because it is our fault, but because the opportunity that friendship presents is worth the risk.

What Tomorrow Will Bring

Sun, 03 May 2020 11:30:51 GMT

It's hard to make plans right now, because we think to ourselves, "I don't know when this situation will end or what will come next," but James reminds his readers that we have never really known what the next day would hold, we just assumed we knew. So, how do we take next steps when it's hard to see past today?

Getting Insight, Leaning In

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 21:00:38 GMT

Once you’ve become acquainted with a friend, how do you take things past that?

A Resurrected Mission

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 11:45:30 GMT

Every Christian, everyone who has been raised with Christ, can and should participate in the global mission of the church. Whether or not you ever go on a 'mission trip,' you are part of the global mission of the church. How are your actions, words, and prayers impacting the world for Christ?

Managing Your Reaction

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 20:30:18 GMT

It can be difficult to deal with some people. How do we act in a Christ-like way with difficult people in our life?

A Resurrected Newness

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 11:50:53 GMT

In the previous lesson, we focused on the way we think (our focus); in this lesson, we will transition to Paul’s instructions about how we live. What does it look like to live a resurrected life? What does it look like to “put to death whatever is earthly” in us? In Colossians 2, Paul gets specific about what a life looks like to live in such a way that we reflect the newness of resurrection.

Sharing Yourself

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 21:00:56 GMT

Sometimes it can be isolating starting a friendship. You’ve demonstrated interest in them and they may not have shown similar interest in you. How can you make these new relationships deeper?

A Resurrected Focus

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 12:00:57 GMT

This Easter we celebrate not only Jesus’ resurrection, but also the sense in which we have “been raised with Christ.” Jesus’ resurrection means everything has changed; the same should be true for our lives, those of us who have been buried and raised with Christ, must have a completely new focus. In this lesson, we consider how setting our minds on things above does not mean sitting around waiting “to go to heaven,” but thinking of everything through the lens of Christ’s reign. As The Message puts it, “Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that’s where the action is. See things from his perspective.”

Starting Conversations

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 21:30:35 GMT

It can be difficult to know when the right time is to start a new relationship. Rather than worrying about the perfect thing to say, remember that demonstrating interest and making those first steps can be the hardest part.

A Resurrected Fullness

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 11:00:43 GMT

Being serious about our “resurrection life” means being able to say “no” when the world threatens to derail our forward spiritual momentum with destructive and distracting philosophies. The only way to stand strong against these philosophies is to realize that a resurrected life is a filled life (a life that is lacking in nothing). When the world tells us we need something else to be “complete,” we can call their bluff because we know we who are raised with Christ are complete in him.

Constancy

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 22:00:33 GMT

What I can gain from acting charitably and well in a relationship is worth more than what I can get when I act poorly in a relationship

A King's Sacrifice

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 11:00:45 GMT

Near the end of David’s reign, he idolized military power and strength by numbering his troops, in spite of warnings not to do so. Because of his idolatry and his failure to trust in God’s strength, a severe plague came upon the nation. David finally took responsibility for his actions and sought God’s mercy. Have we ever been guilty of trusting our safety and security to someone or something other than God? What are the consequences of that idolatry? What steps do we need to take to come back to a position of trusting God’s strength and providence?

Carry Each Other's Burdens

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 21:00:35 GMT

The Biblical story of Paul and Silas - This instruction seems simple, if only by metaphor. “Many hands make light work”, “A cord of three strands is not be quickly broken”, etc. what is the difference between working
toward a common goal and bearing each other’s burdens? How do we learn about burdens we should carry?

Experiencing Betrayal and Rejection

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 09:30:23 GMT

David’s own son, Absalom, conspires to steal the throne and David finds himself banished from Jerusalem. Psalm 3 is thought to be David’s song on this occasion. Though David had made many mistakes and was suffering the consequences of his own sins, he continued to trust that God would deliver him from the hands of his enemies. When we are betrayed and rejected by those closest to us, do we turn to God and turn our enemies over to his judgment? (Scripture: Psalms 3:1-8)

The Hard Work of Friendship

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 21:00:23 GMT

The Biblical story of Paul and Barnabas - Maintaining friendships, as opposed to being comfortable and easy, actually can be quite hard work. What kinds of work does it take?

Restoring a Banished Son

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 10:00:04 GMT

David’s sin with Bathsheba broke his family. After the events of chapter 12, everything seems to fall apart for David. His children sin greatly against one another. But in the midst of it all, David is given an opportunity to bring an exiled son back home. In doing so, David demonstrates the grace and mercy of God (and the coming Messiah), who is not content to allow his children to remain estranged from him. Are we taking the next steps back home? And, are we demonstrating the same willingness to restore those who are estranged? (Scripture: 2 Samuel 14:4-14)

Malachi

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 21:00:16 GMT

Confronted with Sin

Sun, 08 Mar 2020 10:00:00 GMT

David’s most infamous sin was stealing another man’s wife and having that man killed to cover up the affair. When confronted with his sin, David recognized and confessed the wrong in what he had done. For us, the question is not whether or not we have sinned; but rather, what do we do when we are confronted with our sin? Do we recognize the wrong we have done? Do we repent and seek forgiveness? (Scripture: 2 Samuel 12:1-10)

Zechariah

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 21:00:05 GMT

Uniting God's People

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 10:00:32 GMT

For seven and a half years, David ruled as king, but only over the tribe of Judah. The other tribes of Israel, were loyal to Saul’s son Ishbosheth. David’s men and Ishbosheth’s men made war with each other. Sadly, David’s men made many mistakes along the way, but eventually, the entire nation of Israel was united under David’s rule and reign. As followers of King Jesus, we must recognize the importance of unity. No matter what mistakes have been made on either side, steps can be taken towards unity. (Scripture: 2 Samuel 5:1-5)

Haggai

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 20:00:08 GMT

Motivated by the Grace of God

Sun, 23 Feb 2020 10:00:46 GMT

Finally, we will conclude our “Motivated” series by considering one of the most powerful words of the Gospel, “grace.” The Greek word for “grace” is “charis,” the word from which we get, “charity.” Grace is not just about forgiveness, but about being lavished with spiritual blessings in Jesus. The riches of God’s grace should be one of the greatest motivating factors in our lives. So, if we truly embrace the truth of God’s grace and allow that truth to fuel our good works, what would be our next step in life?

Zephaniah

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 21:00:35 GMT

Motivated by the Mind of Christ

Sun, 16 Feb 2020 10:00:53 GMT

Philippians 2 is another great passage to add fuel to our spiritual tank. The mind of Jesus—specifically, his selfless love—should compel us forward in everything we do. We should allow his incarnation, crucifixion, and glorification to motivate us to see others as “more significant” than ourselves and serve their needs as we serve our own. If we were really motivated by Jesus’ mind, what would be some of our next steps in life?

Habakkuk

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 21:00:50 GMT

Motivated by the Hope of Resurrection

Sun, 09 Feb 2020 10:00:17 GMT

The 15th chapter of 1 Corinthians is all about the hope of resurrection. Paul shares how if it weren’t for Jesus’ resurrection—and the coming resurrection of all of God’s people—all would be hopeless and following Jesus would be pointless. But because the resurrection is true, it should motivate us to be bold in our service to the King. If we really believed that death could not defeat us, what might be our next step in life?

Nahum

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 21:00:39 GMT

Motivated by the Mercies of God

Sun, 02 Feb 2020 10:00:58 GMT

Romans 12:1 is a hinge on which the entire letter to the Romans pivots. Paul shifts from sharing the deep theological truths of the Gospel and begins to share how those truths should motivate and compel God’s people. He helps us to see how gratitude for God’s mercy should be one of the primary fuels of our life. If we were truly motivated by the mercies of God, what would be our next step in life?

Paul's Fresh Start

Sun, 26 Jan 2020 10:00:13 GMT

There are few “new beginnings” or “fresh starts” as memorable as Saul of Tarsus’ conversion to a follower of Jesus. Saul had been a zealous Pharisee, who believed his terroristic acts against Christians were helping defend the Jewish faith and way of life. When Jesus appeared to him on the road to Damascus and he was soon baptized, his life began anew in many ways. But though the man who came up from the water was forgiven, he still carried his memories, experiences, and knowledge. In many ways, his baptism was simply the next step in his journey and there would be many more steps afterwards until he finished his race.

Micah

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Nehemiah's Fresh Start

Sun, 19 Jan 2020 10:00:11 GMT

Nehemiah, cupbearer to the king of Persia, was shocked to find out that the returned exiles still had not rebuilt the wall around Jerusalem. The unwalled city was left open to attacks and manipulations from outsiders. Nehemiah helped the finish this monumental task and hoped that rebuilding the wall would usher in the highly anticipated peace, prosperity, and faithfulness to God. However, much to Nehemiah’s disappointment, the people continued to disobey. Finishing one project does not mean the whole journey is complete. It just means it’s time to take the next step by faith.

Jonah

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 21:00:12 GMT

Ezra's Fresh Start

Sun, 12 Jan 2020 10:00:49 GMT

Ezra was a scribe and a priest, who helped the Jewish people resettle in Jerusalem after the return from Babylonian exile. He taught the people the Torah and hoped that their return to Jerusalem would be a fresh start for God’s people, ushering in a time of peace, prosperity, and faithfulness to God. Unfortunately, the returned exiles continued to struggle with sin and soon Ezra was frustrated. We ought not be surprised when we—or the people we love—continue to struggle, even after a life-changing event. We need to love them and help them take their next step by faith.

Obadiah

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 21:00:40 GMT

Noah's Fresh Start

Sun, 05 Jan 2020 10:00:24 GMT

You might say Noah got a fresh start. He and his family were free from the torment of the evil world they left behind. However, nearly as soon as they got off the ark, Noah’s family corrupted the new world with sin of their own. They brought the sin with them into the new world and once again, things were broken. January is a whole new year; but like it or not, we have brought our struggles into this new year. But when we inevitably mess up, we don’t need a whole new year, we just need to take the next step by faith. (Scripture: Genesis 9:8-17)

The Food He Gives You

Sun, 29 Dec 2019 10:00:10 GMT

As we wrap up our journey through John (and as we wrap up another year), let’s remember that the Son of Man gives us food that endures to eternal life. Because the Son of Man now reigns in heaven on our behalf and he has given us everything we need for life, we should seek that which comes from him rather than the food that perishes. How would 2020 look different if we really devoted ourselves to seeking the bread that the Son of Man gives?

Authority to Judge

Sun, 22 Dec 2019 10:00:50 GMT

When we think about Jesus being born in Bethlehem and that news being announced to wise men and shepherds, why do we think that is Good News? Why does Jesus’ birth mean “peace and good tidings on earth”? Why do angels rejoice at this news? It’s Good News because humanity has a King who is partnered together with God to bring justice and peace. It’s Good News for all who give him their allegiance. (Scripture: John 5:25-29)

Amos

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 21:00:02 GMT

Will be Lifted Up

Sun, 15 Dec 2019 10:00:49 GMT

Jesus compares the exaltation of the Son of Man to the bronze serpent from the book of Numbers. Jesus believed that when he was lifted up on the cross, he would draw humanity to himself and they would be healed and would receive the gift of eternal life. What does it mean to be a people who believe in the Son of Man? How has his coming and his sacrifice changed our lives? (Scripture: John 3:14-16)

Joel

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 20:00:59 GMT

Given Dominion

Sun, 08 Dec 2019 10:00:26 GMT

We explore Daniel’s vision, the horrible beasts, the Ancient of Days, and the Son of Man. What does it mean for Jesus to fulfill this ancient vision? What does it mean for Jesus to be the Son of Man? And, on a practical level, what does it mean for us to be living under the reign of the Son of Man? What has changed now that he has taken his throne in heaven? These are some of the thoughts we will explore. (Scripture: Daniel 7:13-14)

Hosea

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 20:00:34 GMT

Crowned with Glory

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 10:00:29 GMT

Before we explore Jesus’ role as the “Son of Man,” perhaps it is best to understand that all the sons and daughters of man were intended to rule the world. From the very beginning, the Garden of Eden, God created humanity to be crowned with glory and honor. However, we abdicated our rulership and the creation is as much in rebellion to our rule as we are in rebellion to God’s rule. Thankfully, Jesus has re-established the rule of humanity and we will share his glory and honor. (Scripture: Psalms 8)

The Resurrection

Sun, 24 Nov 2019 10:00:48 GMT

How appropriate that our minds would once again be drawn to the resurrection of Jesus on the week of Thanksgiving, because there is nothing in the world for which we ought to be more thankful than the resurrection of the Messiah. As Jesus himself told Thomas, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” We are the people who have not seen and yet have believed and we are “blessed” indeed. (Scripture: John 20:24-29)

Receiving an Inheritance

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 20:30:30 GMT

Colossians 3:22-25

The Crucifixion

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 10:00:33 GMT

From the trial to the cross, Jesus continues to press on until he accomplishes all the Father has given him to accomplish, until he drinks the cup down to the dregs. John masterfully weaves together several passages from the Hebrew Scriptures in order for his readers to understand what Jesus is accomplishing by giving his life. The lamb of God is being slain, so that the world can experience freedom, reconciliation, and forgiveness. (Scripture: John 19:14-18)

Redemption of Creation

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 20:30:22 GMT

Romans 8

The Trial

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 10:00:04 GMT

John wants his readers to know that even though it looks like Jesus is on trial, it’s actually the ruler of the world who is on trial. Satan and all those who are in league with him are guilty and their guilt is evident by their determination to put an innocent man to death. They think they are trying Jesus, but they are actually trying themselves. Similarly, we are all on trial. Will we join forces with the kingdoms of this world or with the King whose kingdom is not of this world? (Scripture: John 18:28-32)

Resurrection of the Body

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 20:30:03 GMT

1 Corinthians 15

The Arrest

Sun, 03 Nov 2019 10:00:45 GMT

John wants his readers to understand that even though Jesus is being betrayed and arrested, he is the one who is very much in charge of the situation. Even the soldiers who come to arrest him involuntarily bow before him. Jesus is determined to drink the cup the Father has given to him. Jesus’ determination and calmness should fill us with a similar determination and calmness as we follow him. (Scripture: John 18:1-11)

Deliver Us from Evil

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 10:00:07 GMT

In the Lord’s prayer, Jesus taught his disciples to pray, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” In John 17, Jesus prayed this prayer himself on behalf of his disciples. Do we recognize the power and presence of evil in the world? Are we intentionally praying against the powers of evil and darkness? Do our prayers reflect the fact that we are engaged daily in spiritual warfare? (Scripture: John 17:12-19)

Share Christ's Sufferings

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 20:30:53 GMT

1 Peter 4:12-19

Work in Your People

Sun, 20 Oct 2019 09:30:48 GMT

Jesus taught his disciples to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.” This teaches us to not only pray for our bread, but the bread of others. This teaches us to not only seek forgiveness, but to extend forgiveness. This is the kind of prayer that unified people pray, which is exactly the sort of thing for which Jesus prayed in John 17. Are we praying for unity? Are we praying that God work in us to seek the welfare of others and extend to us the same type of forgiveness we extend to others? (Scripture: John 17:6-11)

Walk by the Spirit

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 21:00:11 GMT

Galatians 5

Your Kingdom Come

Sun, 13 Oct 2019 10:00:28 GMT

In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught his disciples to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” In other words, we ought to pray for God’s name to be revered on the earth, his rule and reign to be established on the earth, and his will to be done on the earth. In the opening lines of John 17, those are exactly the sorts of things for which Jesus prayed. Do these themes permeate our prayers? (Scripture: John 17:1-5)

The Meekness of Paul

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 20:30:43 GMT

Colossians 3:12-15

The Prodigal Son

Sun, 06 Oct 2019 09:30:53 GMT

"But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate. "

Luke 15:22-24

The Meekness of Jesus

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 20:30:46 GMT

Matthew 11:25-30; 21:1-5

In the Neighborhod

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 09:30:26 GMT

Our "Brighter Together" campaign is about more than expanding our building. "Brighter Together" is about embracing a vision of being a church family who is making room for our neighbors, a church family who is invested in sharing the Good News about Jesus with our neighborhood, and a church family who believes that by loving our neighbors in Jesus' name we can change the world one person at a time.

The Meekness of Moses

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 20:30:08 GMT

Numbers 12

In the Neighborhood

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 18:44:12 GMT

Good News to the Poor

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 20:30:45 GMT

Isaiah 61

You Are My Friends

Sun, 15 Sep 2019 09:30:25 GMT

Friendship is special, and it requires effort. John 15:12-17

Forget Not the Afflicted

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 20:30:25 GMT

Psalms 9 and 10

Glory from God

Sun, 08 Sep 2019 09:30:37 GMT

Jesus admonished the religious leaders of his day for seeking the glory that comes from man, rather than the glory that comes from God. Jesus said that he sought the glory that comes from God and he did so by giving himself on the cross so that others could live. How do we avoid seeking the glory that comes from man? How do we seek God’s glory?

The Meek Shall Inherit the Land

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 22:45:13 GMT

Psalm 37

Glory of God

Sun, 01 Sep 2019 16:02:02 GMT

John wrote that when a person sees Jesus, he or she sees the Father’s glory. But the glory of God didn’t manifest itself the way we might expect. God’s glory wasn’t manifest in bright light, power, or strength. God’s glory was manifest in meekness, humility, love, selflessness.

Samson

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 20:00:59 GMT

By This All People Will Know

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 09:30:42 GMT

In the final lesson of this series, we will explore Jesus’ words, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” The primary characteristic of Jesus’ disciples should be love, love for God and love for others.

Barak

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 20:00:33 GMT

Love as He Loved

Sun, 18 Aug 2019 09:30:46 GMT

We focus on Jesus’ “new commandment” to love one another as he loved us. Not only did Jesus wash feet and give his life, but he also became flesh and dwelt among us. It’s impossible to love people unless you dwell with them.

Gideon

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 20:00:25 GMT

Serve as He Served

Sun, 11 Aug 2019 09:30:12 GMT

What does it look like, in practical terms, to live out Jesus’ follow his example of washing feet? In what ways ought we to be involved in each other’s lives, serving one another, in order to fulfill Jesus’ calling?

Rahab

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 20:00:57 GMT

Witnessing the Impossible

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 09:30:30 GMT

The Work of the Spirit

Sun, 28 Jul 2019 00:14:34 GMT

As we wrap up this series, we will talk about Jesus’ promise that the Spirit “will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.”

Moses

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 20:00:29 GMT

The Spirit of Truth

Sun, 21 Jul 2019 20:01:06 GMT

In this discourse, Jesus refers to the Spirit as the “Spirit of truth.” We will explore in this lesson why the Spirit of truth was important for the work the apostles were about to do and why the Spirit of truth is still important as the church...

Joseph

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 20:00:36 GMT

The Spirit as Helper

Sun, 14 Jul 2019 19:56:28 GMT

In this lesson we will begin the final part of our series, Jesus’ extended discourse at the Last Supper about the Spirit. Jesus refers to the Spirit as “parakletos.” This word is translated various ways (helper, advocate, comforter, counselor).

Jacob

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 20:00:35 GMT

The Spirit as Rivers of Living Water

Sun, 07 Jul 2019 03:47:42 GMT

Jesus says that is thirsty and comes to him will possess rivers of living water. John explains that Jesus is speaking of the Holy Spirit, who would be given when Jesus was glorified. In this lesson we will use our spiritual imaginations to consider a...

Isaac

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 20:00:38 GMT

Born of the Spirit

Sun, 30 Jun 2019 01:43:49 GMT

Jesus taught that being part of the kingdom requires being reborn, by the water and the Spirit. The “water” almost certainly refers to baptism, but in this lesson we focus on what it means to be reborn, or “born again,” by the Spirit.

Abraham and Sarah

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 20:00:33 GMT

The One Who Baptizes with the Holy Spirit

Sun, 23 Jun 2019 16:03:10 GMT

John the Baptizer said Jesus was the One on whom the Spirit descended and remained and that he would baptize with the Holy Spirit. In this introductory lesson we will explore in what way the pouring out of the Spirit was a function of the Messiah and...

Noah

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 20:00:25 GMT

Our Family's Source of Strength

Sun, 16 Jun 2019 19:50:54 GMT

What is the typical family’s source of strength? What are they accomplishing in life and from where do they get their strength, ability, and power? What would it look like for a family’s purpose to be produce fruit through their connection to Jesus?

Abel

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 20:00:56 GMT

Our Family's Connection to God

Sun, 09 Jun 2019 16:25:29 GMT

What is the typical family’s connection to God? On what basis do they believe they are heard (or not heard) by God? What would it look like for a family to truly embrace Jesus and the one and only way to God?

Our Family's Hope

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 00:05:20 GMT

What would it look like for Jesus—the one who is the resurrection and the life—to be a family’s hope?

Our Family's Shepherd

Sun, 26 May 2019 18:37:06 GMT

Who or what is shepherding the typical family? To which voices are our families listening? Are these shepherds good shepherds or are they taking advantage of our families for their own gain? What would it really look like to have Jesus shepherding a...

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 21

Wed, 22 May 2019 17:08:04 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Our Family's Light

Sun, 19 May 2019 22:11:25 GMT

What are the typical family’s guiding principles or moral compass? What would it look like for Jesus himself to be the light that guides a family?

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 20

Wed, 15 May 2019 19:12:57 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Our Family's Bread

Sun, 12 May 2019 19:27:39 GMT

What is the typical family’s “bread”? In other words, what is it that sustains them from day to day? What would it look like if Jesus was a family’s bread?

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 19

Wed, 08 May 2019 16:44:03 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Mission Sunday

Sun, 05 May 2019 19:24:29 GMT

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 18

Wed, 01 May 2019 16:42:21 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

No More Stones

Sun, 28 Apr 2019 21:27:25 GMT

The story of the adulterous woman who was brought before Jesus to see if he would condemn her to die by stoning is as relevant today as it was 2,000 years ago. Those of us who are followers of Jesus must learn from the way Jesus handled judgment...

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 17

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 15:07:18 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

I Am the Resurrection

Sun, 21 Apr 2019 17:18:56 GMT

When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, it was a "sign" that resurrection is not just something Jesus does, but something Jesus is. Jesus is the resurrection. Resurrection is about hope. Not a hope of "going to heaven" when we die, but the hope of not staying dead, being raised to life and living with immortal bodies in the new creation. That reality is literally "embodied" in Jesus.

Children of Light - Brighter Together - Part 4

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 18:59:46 GMT

Jesus' people are called to be children of light in a world of darkness. We shine brighter when we work collectively.

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 16

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 19:57:00 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Being the Consecrated One at Hanukkah

Sun, 07 Apr 2019 18:49:02 GMT

During Hanukkah, or the Feast of Dedication, Jesus claims to be the Messiah, Good Shepherd, and the one who is truly dedicated to God. Jesus is reclaiming God's sheep from the evil shepherds and is being the Holy Place for all who will come to...

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 15

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 18:49:45 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Giving Water and Light on Sukkot

Sun, 31 Mar 2019 21:20:35 GMT

A third festival is introduced in John 7, the Feast of Booths (Sukkot). During Sukkot, Jesus claims to be both the light of the world and the one who gives drink to the thirsty. What should make of these claims and how do they apply to our lives today?

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 14

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 20:58:08 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Greater Works Than These (Brighter Together - Part 3)

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 15:02:20 GMT

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 13

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 20:13:05 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Giving Bread on Passover

Sun, 17 Mar 2019 20:29:39 GMT

John connects Jesus’ feeding the 5,000 with the Passover feast. The crowd’s response to the feeding was to call Jesus, “the Prophet who is to come." But what does all of this mean and how does Jesus “feed” us today?

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 12

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 20:30:27 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Working on the Sabbath

Sun, 10 Mar 2019 16:31:51 GMT

Jesus healed a man who could not walk and had been waiting to find healing in a pool of water. This healing takes place on the Sabbath and leads to a long discourse about the Father and the Son’s work on the Sabbath. What should we learn from this...

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 11

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 19:12:04 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Encountering Jesus at the Well

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 16:52:30 GMT

One of Jesus’ most memorable encounters was with a Samaritan woman at a well. Jesus discussed the pains and disappointments of life, racial tensions, and religious differences with the woman. By the end of the conversation, the woman was coming to...

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 10

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 23:21:13 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Does God Exist? What Does the Bible Say? Lesson 10

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 20:00:44 GMT

Encountering Jesus with Nicodemus

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 02:34:18 GMT

An abundance of information is packed into Nicodemus’ encounter with Jesus. In just a few verses, Jesus discusses the work of the Spirit, the kingdom, the work of the Son of Man, and how believers experience a rebirth.

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 9

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 18:41:37 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Does God Exist? What Does the Bible Say? Lesson 9

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 20:00:56 GMT

Brighter Together - Part 2

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 09:30:30 GMT

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 8

Wed, 13 Feb 2019 18:52:12 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Encountering Jesus at the Temple

Sun, 10 Feb 2019 19:48:27 GMT

Most of us know the story of Jesus flipping over tables and driving people out of the temple, but what is this story all about? What does John want to show us about Jesus and about the temple through this story?

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 7

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 18:49:56 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Encountering Jesus at the Wedding Banquet

Sun, 03 Feb 2019 22:01:40 GMT

John calls Jesus’ turning water to wine, “the first of his signs.” The idea of Jesus’ miracles being “signs” is one of the important themes throughout this gospel account.

Does God Exist? What Does the Bible Say? Lesson 8

Sun, 03 Feb 2019 20:00:27 GMT

Jesus, the Son of God

Sun, 27 Jan 2019 22:28:04 GMT

Even though John makes it clear that Jesus is fully divine, when someone said Jesus was the “Son of God,” they weren’t necessarily perceiving his deity. They were saying Jesus is the rightful king of Israel to whom God is a Father.

Does God Exist? What Does the Bible Say? Lesson 7

Sun, 27 Jan 2019 20:00:36 GMT

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 6

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 23:21:31 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Does God Exist? What Does the Bible Say? Lesson 6

Sun, 20 Jan 2019 20:00:34 GMT

Jesus, the Lamb of God

Sun, 20 Jan 2019 17:55:37 GMT

John the Baptizer said he was the one who was sent to prepare the way for God to be king over the whole world. But in order for God to reign over people, something has to be done about their sins. Someone had to come and take away their sins before...

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 5

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 23:38:00 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Jesus, the Word of God

Sun, 13 Jan 2019 22:10:05 GMT

The first three words of John are incredibly bold, “In the beginning…” It is as if John is rewriting Genesis. John is not only showing us how Jesus participated in God’s creative work in the past, but is also showing us how God is bringing about a new...

Does God Exist? What Does the Bible Say? Lesson 5

Sun, 13 Jan 2019 20:00:09 GMT

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 4

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 23:38:18 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Does God Exist? What Does the Bible Say? Lesson 4

Sun, 06 Jan 2019 20:00:56 GMT

Come and See

Sun, 06 Jan 2019 18:27:55 GMT

As we kick off a new year, a new annual theme, and a new sermon series, we will consider the words uttered twice in the first chapter of John, “Come and see” (vs. 39 and 46). John invites his readers to “come and see” who Jesus is and have the...

Grafted Branches

Sun, 30 Dec 2018 21:21:42 GMT

Paul uses the metaphor of a tree to explain the relationship between Jews, Gentiles, and Israel. It might be challenging for us to grasp, but if we want to know where we fit in the story of the Bible, then we need to try to understand how we are...

The Right to Become God's Children

Sun, 23 Dec 2018 18:27:03 GMT

Jesus’ birth is the pinnacle of Israel’s story. It is the moment when their God came to visit them and bring them life. However, when God showed up, his own people did not receive him. But to anyone who did receive him, he gave the right to become his...

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 3

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 23:38:36 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Does God Exist? What Does the Bible Say? Lesson 3

Sun, 16 Dec 2018 20:00:56 GMT

Does God Exist? What Does the Bible Say? Elders' Comments

Sun, 16 Dec 2018 20:00:30 GMT

The Consolation of Israel

Sun, 16 Dec 2018 19:47:57 GMT

If we want to understand the true significance of Jesus’ birth, then we have to understand the anticipation that was felt by the people of Israel, and especially people like Simeon.

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 2

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 23:21:55 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Does God Exist? What Does the Bible Say? Lesson 2

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 20:00:03 GMT

The Gift from Heaven

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 18:06:31 GMT

Jesus is God's gift to you and me...straight from heaven.

Keeper of Promises - Lesson 1

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 23:22:14 GMT

A Study of the Book of Romans

Wrestling with God

Sun, 02 Dec 2018 20:51:04 GMT

The name “Israel” means “wrestles with God” and it was given to Abraham’s grandson Jacob when he wrestled with an angel all night. It was a fitting moniker, because Jacob’s descendants would continue to wrestle with the Lord for generations.

Confirm Your Calling

Sun, 25 Nov 2018 20:49:53 GMT

In our final lesson we will dig into Peter’s second letter, in which he wrote, “be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election.” What exactly does it mean to confirm your calling and election?

Called to a Holy Calling

Sun, 18 Nov 2018 22:12:54 GMT

Why is the Christian calling a “holy calling”? What does it mean to live a “holy” life?

May God Make You Worthy of the Calling

Sun, 11 Nov 2018 22:11:43 GMT

What might happen in our lives if we fully embraced our calling and prayed for its complete fulfillment in our lives?

Walk Worthy of the Calling

Sun, 04 Nov 2018 22:33:52 GMT

In this introductory lesson we will explore both the lifestyle (humility, gentleness, patience, etc.) and the hope of our calling.

Considering the Consequences

Sun, 28 Oct 2018 21:32:52 GMT

Wisdom and foolishness often come down to being able to look ahead, beyond the current moment, and see where this road will lead.

Generosity to the Poor

Sun, 21 Oct 2018 21:03:29 GMT

We might think wisdom is about frugality, but spiritual wisdom also includes generosity.

Listening to Correction

Sun, 14 Oct 2018 17:14:52 GMT

In order to grow into the people God wants us to be, we have to develop a willingness to listen to correction.

Forging Beneficial Relationships

Sun, 07 Oct 2018 18:57:55 GMT

We live in a unique era, a time when people “network” with thousands but are actually connected with very few. We desperately need the wisdom of Proverbs about building real and meaningful relationships.

Offending and Being Offended

Sun, 30 Sep 2018 21:17:24 GMT

What could be more relevant for discussion than how to avoid being offended and also how to
avoid offending others?

The Paths of the Righteous and Wicked

Sun, 23 Sep 2018 12:36:52 GMT

A lot of the proverbs contrast the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. What does wickedness look like? What are the results of walking on either path?

The Value of Finding Wisdom

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 18:49:52 GMT

In this lesson we discuss what wisdom is, where it comes from, and what it is worth.

Brighter Together

Sun, 09 Sep 2018 20:07:05 GMT

The Purpose of Proverbs

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 18:52:55 GMT

In this introductory lesson we walk through the first seven verses of Proverbs and discover why the book of Proverbs is far deeper and more spiritual than many of us assume.

Teaching and Preaching

Sun, 26 Aug 2018 18:39:53 GMT

When God’s people came together in the first-century, an apostle, a pastor-teacher, or an evangelist would read and teach from the holy Scriptures. They would explain how Jesus was the fulfillment of all of the promises made to Abraham’s descendants...

Singing

Sun, 19 Aug 2018 19:50:21 GMT

The first-century church was a singing community. Lives are transformed through the congregational singing of praises and McDermott Road is committed to be a singing community.

Weekly Communion

Sun, 12 Aug 2018 20:47:43 GMT

As followers of Jesus, we rehearse the story of his death ever week. Rehearsing this story with our church family shapes us into the people God wants us to be.

Assembling Regularly

Sun, 05 Aug 2018 21:51:30 GMT

Why is it so important to 'come to church'? If God is everywhere and if a person can worship God anywhere, why should we made to feel like church attendance is important?

Male Spiritual Leadership

Sun, 29 Jul 2018 19:48:24 GMT

What was life in the city of Ephesus, where Timothy preached? Was there some unusual situation in which the women of that city had to be told to let men lead or was this the consistent teaching and practice of God’s people throughout time?

Baptism for the Forgiveness of Sins

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 19:05:26 GMT

For the apostles’, baptism was the moment they said a person became united to King Jesus and his saving power.

Unity of the Spirit

Sun, 15 Jul 2018 18:22:14 GMT

Jesus and his apostles prayed that all disciples would be united in love for one another. Our unity, in spite of our differences, is meant to draw people to Christ. But if we demonstrate disunity, we become a stumbling block to the world.

Shepherd - Overseers

Sun, 08 Jul 2018 18:50:15 GMT

In the business world, in politics, and very often in religion, organizations are led by a single ambitious and charismatic leader. However, in the first-century, groups of humble and godly men were chosen to oversee each community of Jesus’ followers.

Committed to Steadfast Love

Sun, 01 Jul 2018 20:05:08 GMT

God is a God of justice, kindness, and mercy and he expects his covenant people to reflect those qualities.

Worship

Sun, 24 Jun 2018 20:05:08 GMT

What is worship, and why is it important?

Fathers and Children

Sun, 17 Jun 2018 18:30:16 GMT

We wrap up the series by talking about the important role of fathers in bringing up their children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Honoring Marriage - Part 3

Sun, 10 Jun 2018 18:44:21 GMT

Sometimes we struggle to honor marriage because we don’t really understand the purpose or the goal of marriage; and when you don’t understand the goal, how can you be successful?

Honoring Marriage - Part 2

Sun, 03 Jun 2018 18:54:28 GMT

Ideally, every married Christian would be married to another Christian and they would help each other be better followers of Jesus. Realistically, we know, that is not always the case.

Honoring Marriage

Sun, 27 May 2018 18:23:23 GMT

Jesus’ teaching on marriage made people uncomfortable in the first-century and it makes people uncomfortable in the twenty-first century. But it doesn’t have to make us uncomfortable.

Teaching Generations

Sun, 20 May 2018 22:03:07 GMT

We need to be fathers to the fatherless and mothers to the motherless. We need to know, teach, and
learn from each other.

Ephesians 6

Tue, 15 May 2018 22:26:55 GMT

Providing for Our Families

Sun, 13 May 2018 19:28:15 GMT

This Sunday is Mother’s Day, and while we will certainly be discussing mothers and motherhood, our topic will be much broader than that. Taking care of our families is how we “show godliness” (1 Timothy 5 : 4).

Ephesians 5 - The Christian Household

Tue, 08 May 2018 22:35:02 GMT

Reaching the Nations for Christ

Sun, 06 May 2018 20:05:08 GMT

Making disciples (followers) of Christ is one thing that the church cannot stop doing and still be called Christ's church.

Ephesians 5

Tue, 01 May 2018 23:09:12 GMT

Hope from the Scriptures

Sun, 29 Apr 2018 23:10:33 GMT

How do the Scriptures, specifically the Old Testament Scriptures, give “hope” to Christians?

Ephesians 4 v13 - 5 v2

Tue, 24 Apr 2018 23:04:26 GMT

Hoping with Patience

Sun, 22 Apr 2018 18:07:23 GMT

Are we patiently longing for Jesus’ return? Some may be dreading that day, others may doubt that day will ever come, and others may not even realize Christians are supposed to long for that day.

Ephesians 4

Tue, 17 Apr 2018 20:43:02 GMT

Live Victoriously

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 18:13:40 GMT

Christ has triumphed, and as a Christian, the victory is shared with you. Live victoriously!

Ephesians 3 v1-21

Tue, 10 Apr 2018 22:35:02 GMT

Suffering that Leads to Hope

Sun, 08 Apr 2018 17:58:38 GMT

Paul writes several things in Romans 5:1-5 about hope, but one of the most remarkable is that we rejoice in our sufferings because our suffering leads to hope.

Grieving with Hope

Sun, 01 Apr 2018 17:49:18 GMT

What is the difference between the grief of Christians and the grief of unbelievers? Because of the empty tomb, the answer is “hope.”

Story

Sun, 25 Mar 2018 18:07:46 GMT

Are you ready to tell the story of how Jesus changed your life?

Ephesians 2 v1-10

Tue, 20 Mar 2018 22:04:15 GMT

Proclaim

Sun, 18 Mar 2018 21:26:31 GMT

There’s a difference between making a proclamation and stating your opinion. When we share the gospel, there needs to be proclamation involved.

Implore

Sun, 11 Mar 2018 22:26:03 GMT

The apostle Paul “implored” people to be reconciled to God through Jesus. The word “implore” implies urgency. Do we recognize the urgency of sharing the gospel with others?

Ephesians 1 v15-23 - Prayer for the Ephesians

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 02:09:37 GMT

Teach

Sun, 04 Mar 2018 19:26:35 GMT

Sometimes we wring our hands about the moral decline in our country and our world. I’m not sure that the world really is getting worse, but if it is, then the only way to change things is to teach our neighbors about Jesus.

Ephesians 1:1-14

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 00:06:18 GMT

Risking All for One Another

Sun, 25 Feb 2018 20:05:00 GMT

What are we willing to risk in service to God’s people?

Holy God: Lesson 7

Sun, 25 Feb 2018 02:13:40 GMT

Introduction to Ephesians

Tue, 20 Feb 2018 00:00:37 GMT

Showing Hospitality

Sun, 18 Feb 2018 20:25:45 GMT

The word translated “hospitality” literally means “love for guests.”

Holy God: Lesson 6

Sun, 11 Feb 2018 20:34:15 GMT

Your Abundance, Their Need

Sun, 11 Feb 2018 20:21:21 GMT

When you have abundance, look for a need. When you see a need, give from your abundance.

Holy God: Lesson 5

Sun, 04 Feb 2018 20:33:04 GMT

Not a Needy Person Among Them

Sun, 04 Feb 2018 20:06:09 GMT

This was the beginning of the reign of King Jesus. Through the pouring out of His Spirit and the generosity of His people, hunger and nakedness was being eliminated amongst God’s people.

Holy God: Lesson 4

Sun, 28 Jan 2018 20:31:01 GMT

The Reward for Following

Sun, 28 Jan 2018 20:13:59 GMT

Jesus taught an upside-down way of looking at things. The way He was going to become King and bring heaven’s kingdom was by allowing Himself to be killed.

The Cost of Following

Sun, 21 Jan 2018 20:12:23 GMT

Make no mistake, Jesus was starting a revolution; not a revolution of people who would kill, but were willing to be killed as they lived out His teachings.

Following on Our Terms

Sun, 14 Jan 2018 20:10:50 GMT

Some people wanted to be associated with Jesus, but in their timing and on their terms.

Holy God: Offerings

Sun, 14 Jan 2018 19:58:00 GMT

The sacrificial system presupposes God's character of mercy as well as His people's faith and love for Him.

The Faith to Follow

Sun, 07 Jan 2018 20:04:39 GMT

Do you have the faith to "leave your nets" and follow Jesus?

Holy God: Day of Atonement

Sun, 07 Jan 2018 19:54:41 GMT

Jesus is our high priest who gave himself as an atoning sacrifice, so our conscience can be purified and we can stand without shame or guilt in the presence of God.

Baptized with Nothing to Fear

Sun, 31 Dec 2017 19:58:28 GMT

Peter writes to a group of suffering Christians, encouraging them to remain steadfast.

The Miracle of Baptism

Sun, 24 Dec 2017 19:58:28 GMT

This is the time when many people around the world celebrate the miracle of God becoming human and the Savior King of heaven and earth.

Baptized Into Christ

Sun, 17 Dec 2017 22:26:58 GMT

The churches in Galatia were being fooled into thinking that being members of God’s covenant people was based on circumcision and law-keeping.

Holy God: Introduction

Sun, 17 Dec 2017 19:50:49 GMT

Leviticus is about a holy God who wants to make his dwelling among his people.

Baptized Into One Body

Sun, 10 Dec 2017 19:58:28 GMT

The Corinthians were a divided community of Christians. Even their spiritual gifts had become a point of contention and division, rather than unity.

Baptized Into His Death

Sun, 03 Dec 2017 19:58:28 GMT

It seems some misunderstood the gospel and thought Paul was preaching people are free to sin because we are “not under law but under grace.” Paul adamantly denied that accusation and reminded the church in Rome of their baptism, as the moment at which...

Being Human - Lesson Eleven

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 16:21:47 GMT

Serving Those Who Need You

Sun, 26 Nov 2017 19:58:04 GMT

As we wrap up this month’s series and the entire Before & After series, we will consider Paul’s encouragement and instruction, “Let us do good to everyone” (Galatians 6:9).

Serving Those Who Disagree with You

Sun, 19 Nov 2017 19:58:04 GMT

In the church there are those who vote for Republicans, those who vote for Democrats, those who vote for third-party candidates, those who abstain from voting, and those who are completely apathetic about voting.

Being Human - Lesson Ten

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 15:45:16 GMT

Serving Those Who Hate You

Sun, 12 Nov 2017 19:58:04 GMT

It’s one thing to acknowledge that Jesus calls us to “Love our enemies,” when we think that means simply wishing them well; but we are actually called to love our enemies in tangible ways.

Being Human - Lesson Nine

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 15:44:50 GMT

Serving Those Who Can't Repay You

Sun, 05 Nov 2017 19:58:04 GMT

It’s easy to deceive ourselves about our motives. Sometimes we do nice things for others because it makes us feel good about ourselves.

Being Human - Lesson Eight

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 16:18:16 GMT

Prayers of Supplication

Sun, 29 Oct 2017 20:10:55 GMT

In many ways, prayer is the discipline of declaring total dependence on the providence of God.

Being Human - Lesson Seven

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 16:16:56 GMT

Prayers of Intercession

Sun, 22 Oct 2017 09:30:16 GMT

Prayers of Thanksgiving

Sun, 15 Oct 2017 18:00:49 GMT

Pride and discontentment are often the result of not counting our blessings.

Being Human - Lesson Six

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 16:16:00 GMT

Prayers of Confession

Sun, 08 Oct 2017 20:05:59 GMT

Even in our private prayers, we tend to be pretentious. It's time to confess to God all the things we wish He didn't already know about us.

Being Human - Lesson Five

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 16:14:23 GMT

Prayers of Adoration

Sun, 01 Oct 2017 20:03:30 GMT

One of the best ways to improve your prayer life is to make sure you make it clear to Whom you are speaking when you pray.

Being Human - Lesson Four

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 16:05:07 GMT

Studying with Others

Sun, 24 Sep 2017 20:26:06 GMT

Too often we make the mistake of reading the Bible as if it was a personal “love letter” from God to each of us individually.

Being Human - Lesson Three

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 16:04:20 GMT

Studying with an Eye for the Big Picture

Sun, 17 Sep 2017 20:24:13 GMT

When we study the Bible, not only do we need to understand the context of each book, we also need to understand the context the overall theme and story of the whole Bible.

Being Human - Lesson Two

Wed, 13 Sep 2017 16:03:14 GMT

Studying with Appreciation for Context

Sun, 10 Sep 2017 20:22:24 GMT

Too often we think of the Bible as a collection of verses, kind of like a box full of fortune cookies. We pull one out and hope that whatever it says fits the situation in which we find ourselves.

Being Human - Lesson One

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 16:00:49 GMT

Studying with Humility

Sun, 03 Sep 2017 20:20:48 GMT

One of the primary mistakes Christians make when we study the Bible is we often approach the Bible with our minds already made up about what we believe

Love is From God

Sun, 27 Aug 2017 20:45:41 GMT

The apostle John had much to say about the subject of love. He said we should love “because love is from God.”

Love is the Goal of Christian Teaching

Sun, 20 Aug 2017 20:43:25 GMT

An incredibly important Greek word in the New Testament is the word, “telos.” It means the aim, the goal, the end, or the ultimate fulfillment of some thing.

Love is the Fulfilling of the Law

Sun, 13 Aug 2017 20:39:29 GMT

I believe the book of Romans is Paul’s attempt to unify the Jewish and Gentile Christians in Rome.

Love is the Greatest Command

Sun, 06 Aug 2017 20:37:40 GMT

Jesus said that the greatest commands in the Law were to love God and love your neighbor.

Kingdom and Treasure

Sun, 30 Jul 2017 19:10:56 GMT

The truth that is hidden in the parable of the treasure hidden in a field and the parable of the pearl of great price may very well be the most difficult to accept.

Growth of the Kingdom

Sun, 23 Jul 2017 19:10:56 GMT

Jesus told two parables back-to-back, both illustrating similar points. The first parable is about a mustard seed and the second about a woman hiding leaven in three measures of flour.

Kingdom and Judgment

Sun, 16 Jul 2017 19:10:56 GMT

The second parable contrasts the wheat and the weeds that are in a field. The wheat was planted by the farmer, but the weeds were planted by the farmer’s enemy.

Responses to the Kingdom Message

Sun, 09 Jul 2017 19:10:56 GMT

The first parable in Matthew 13 is a story about a farmer sowing seed in his field. This story frustrated the disciples, but Jesus explained to them what it meant (see Matthew 13:18-23).

Why Jesus Told Parables

Sun, 02 Jul 2017 19:10:56 GMT

Many people think Jesus told parables for the same reason preachers and teachers use illustrations in their lessons, to make the message clearer for everyone present.

The Leadership of Your Home

Sun, 18 Jun 2017 21:13:49 GMT

Parents, grandparents, and the entire Christian community must lead the next generation.

The Language of Your Home

Sun, 11 Jun 2017 21:14:44 GMT

God told His people to be diligent teachers; to talk about the Law constantly; when they were sitting at home, when they were traveling, when they got up in the morning, and when they went to bed at night (Deut. 6:7).

The Law of Your Home

Sun, 04 Jun 2017 21:09:59 GMT

Parental permissiveness may sound like a good idea in twenty-first century America, but one could hardly read the Law of Moses and think God would advocate for permissive parenting.

The Love of Your Home

Sun, 28 May 2017 21:08:08 GMT

God’s covenant people were told to, “love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might” (Deut. 6:5).

The Lord of Your Home

Sun, 14 May 2017 21:06:34 GMT

In this first lesson we will focus on the phrase, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one” (Deut. 6:4)

The Resurrection and Our Service and Sacrifice

Sun, 30 Apr 2017 21:30:22 GMT

The conclusion of Paul’s discussion of the Resurrection is this, “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”

The Resurrection and Our Repentance

Sun, 23 Apr 2017 21:28:21 GMT

Paul said, “If the dead are not raised, ‘Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die’” (vs. 32). But because the dead are raised - because the Resurrection is true - we must “not go on sinning” (vs. 34).

The Resurrection and Our Forgiveness

Sun, 16 Apr 2017 21:24:41 GMT

Paul said, “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins” (vs. 17). But, since Christ has been raised from the dead, we no that we are NOT still in our sins.

The Resurrection and Our Faith

Sun, 09 Apr 2017 21:23:08 GMT

Jesus put His trust in His Father. He obeyed. He went to the cross in faith, trusting that God would raise Him from the dead.

I Know That My Redeemer Lives

Sun, 02 Apr 2017 21:21:40 GMT

In this first lesson we will introduce the series by talking about the certainty of Jesus’ Resurrection.

Let Them See Your Good Deeds

Sun, 26 Mar 2017 19:10:35 GMT

Finally, as exiles in modern-day Babylon, we must “seek the welfare of the city” (Jeremiah 29:7).

Abstain from the Passions of the Flesh

Sun, 19 Mar 2017 19:10:35 GMT

The temptation to conform will always be present. It’s easy to compromise what is right.

Proclaim His Excellencies

Sun, 12 Mar 2017 19:10:35 GMT

Making an impact on the world around us requires that we speak of who God is and what He has done for us.

Remember Who You Are

Sun, 05 Mar 2017 19:10:35 GMT

If we are going to resist the temptation to isolate ourselves as well as the temptation to be assimilated into our culture, then the first step is to know - and remember - our true identity in Christ.

The Idols of Careers and Politics

Sun, 26 Feb 2017 19:12:23 GMT

Wealth easily enslaves, but Jesus sets us free from that bondage.

The Idol of Politics

Sun, 19 Feb 2017 19:12:23 GMT

It’s not wrong to love one’s country and recognize its goodness, but it becomes wrong when patriotism crosses that thin line into idolatry.

The Idol of Relationships

Sun, 12 Feb 2017 19:12:23 GMT

When we magnify the importance and significance of any relationship into an ultimate thing, it will devastate us emotionally and spiritually.

The Problem with Idolatry

Sun, 05 Feb 2017 19:12:23 GMT

You are deifying something in your heart; perhaps many things. Is it God? Is it God alone?

What Good is a Team?

Sun, 29 Jan 2017 19:33:37 GMT

If you give up on the church - every time it gets hard - you will never reach maturity.

Do You Believe in Yourself

Sun, 22 Jan 2017 19:31:30 GMT

We often pray for God to change our circumstances and we need to start praying for God to change us.

Why Do You Work So Hard?

Sun, 15 Jan 2017 19:27:32 GMT

We don't work hard to be saved but to show gratitude for being saved.

Who Do You Think You Are?

Sun, 08 Jan 2017 19:24:55 GMT

Who are you going to listen to? Are you going to accept the identity the world gives you or the identity God gives you?

What Does Better Look Like?

Sun, 01 Jan 2017 19:23:39 GMT

The answer is not just to put forth a greater effort, but to put forth an enlightened effort.