Resilient – The Story of Joseph Part 11 – When You Near Life’s Finish Line Click to view service Genesis 47:27-50:26 27 Now the Israelites settled in Egypt in the region of Goshen. They acquired property there and were fruitful and increased greatly in number. 28 Jacob lived in Egypt seventeen years …

Resilient: The Story of Joseph Part 10 – When You Have a Major Decision Click here to view service Genesis 45:16-46:29 16 When the news reached Pharaoh’s palace that Joseph’s brothers had come, Pharaoh and all his officials were pleased. 17 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Tell your brothers, ‘Do this: Load …

Resilient: The Story of Joseph Part 9 – When You’re Attitude Needs Adjustment! Click here to view service Genesis 44-45:15 Now Joseph gave these instructions to the steward of his house: “Fill the men’s sacks with as much food as they can carry, and put each man’s silver in the mouth of his sack. 2  …

Resilient – The Story of Joseph Part 8 – When You’ve Been Wrong(ed) Genesis 43:15-34 15 So the men took the gifts and double the amount of silver, and Benjamin also. They hurried down to Egypt and presented themselves to Joseph. Genesis 43:15 16 When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the ste …

Resilient – The Story of Joseph Part 7 – When You’re Being Tested Click here to view service Genesis 42:36-43:15 Murphy’s Law – “If anything can go wrong, it will!” Because life doesn’t always go our way, we have developed a few tendencies… We tend to respond negatively instead of positively! We ten …

Resilient – The Story of Joseph Part 6 – When You’re Guilty or Heartbroken Click here to view service Genesis 42:1-28 51 Joseph named his firstborn Manasseh and said, “It is because God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father’s household.” 52 The second son he named Ephraim and said, “It …

Resilient – The Story of Joseph Part 5 – When You’re Being Refined Click here to view service Genesis 41 God never abandons you, even when you may think He has; He is at work refining you! 3 If only I knew where to find him;     if only I could go to his dwelling! 4 I would state my case before him …

Resilient Part 4 – When Called to Wait Click to view service Genesis 39:21-40:23 Key Takeaway: As followers of Christ, we need not forget that He is with us and that He will always show us his steadfast love. 21 the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the p …

Resilient – The Story of Joseph Part 3 – When You’re Tempted Click here to view service Genesis 39:1-20 God never abandons you, even when you may think He has. Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. Potiphar, an Egyptian who was one of Pharaoh’s officials, the captain of the guard, bought him from …

Resilient: The Story of Joseph Part 2 – When Your Life is in a Pit! Click here to view service Genesis 29-37 25 After Rachel gave birth to Joseph, Jacob said to Laban, “Send me on my way so I can go back to my own homeland. 26 Give me my wives and children, for whom I have served you, and I will be …

Resilient: The Story of Joseph Part 1: How God is at Work in Your Life Click here to view service Genesis 50:20 Question: Do you think that God is involved in the intimate details of your life? Providence – the foreseeing care and guidance of God over the creatures of the earth. 2. God, directing th …

Blueprints: A Study of James Part 13 – Praying Faithfully Click here to view service James 5:13-20 13 Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. 14 Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them w …

Blueprints: A Study of James Part 12 – Persevering with Purpose Click here to view service James 5:7-12 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. James 1:2-3 7 Be patient, then, br …

Blueprints – A Study of James Part 11 – Putting My Wealth to Work Click here to view service James 5:1-6 Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you. 2 Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded. Their cor …

Blueprints Part 10 – Living God-dependent Guest Speaker: Andy Lackey Click here to view service James 4:13-17 13 Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. …

Blueprints Part 9 – Ending the Wars Click here to view service James 4:1-12 Three Wars We Face in Life 1) The War with Others. (James 1a; 11-12) What causes fights and quarrels among you?… 11 Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges th …

Blueprints – A Study of James Part 8 – Pursuing True Wisdom Click here to view service James 3:13-18 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5. 13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show …

Blueprint Part 7 – Taming the Tongue James 3:1-12 Guest Speaker: Dan Roseman 3 Ways the Tongue can Destroy Relationships “1 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never …

Blueprints – A Study of James Part 6 – Saving Faith James 2:13-26 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. James 2:17 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through lo …

Blueprints Part 5 – Seeing Others Like Jesus Click here to view service James 2:1-13 20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 1 John 4:20 Four Directives f …

Blueprints: A Study of James Part 4 – Doing the Word Click here to view service James 1:19-27 22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22 Three ways we can do the Word… 1) Permit the Word to take root in your life! 19 My dear brothers and sisters, take …

Blueprints: A Study of James Part 3 – Battling Temptation Click here to view service  James 1:13-18 What is a temptation? Temptation is always an opportunity to do or accomplish a good thing in a bad way. 13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, no …

Blueprints – A Study of James Part 2 – Triumphing through Trials Click here to view service James 1:2-12 Four Directives for Turning Trials into Triumphs 1) Adopt a positive, joyful attitude. 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, James 1:2 33 “…In t …

Blueprints – A Study of James Part 1 – Introducing James James 1:1 4 ….that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:4b James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, James 1:1 Who was James? James, the most likely author of this letter, is the brother of Jesus. James was …

The Parables Part 8 – Being Right With God Click here to view service Luke 18:9-14 22 This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. Romans 3:22 “Only when God is seen for Who He is can we see ourselves for who we are. Meaning comes only when life is theocentric, not e …

The Parables Part 7 – Persevering Through Prayer Click to view service Luke 18:1-8 Perseverance isn’t a very romantic concept. We would rather admire the exploit than examine the endurance that made it possible. — Gary Inrig Perseverance is produced by persistent prayer! Then Jesus told his disciple …

The Parables Part 6 – Praying with Purpose Click to view service Luke 11:1-13 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” Luke 11:1 16 But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and pray …

The Parables Part 5 – Rich Toward God Click here to view service Luke 12:13-21 13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” 15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on yo …

The Parables Part 4 – Loving My Neighbor Click here to view service Luke 10:25-37 34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35 Love Explained 25 On o …

The Parables Part 3 – Knowing God’s Heart Click here to view service Luke 15:11-32 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Luke 15:1-2 11 Jesus continued: “Th …

The Parables Part 2 – Thriving in a Field of Weeds Click here to view service Matthew 13:24-30;36-43 24 Jesus told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25 But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went …

The Parables Part 1 – The Heart God Desires Click here to view service Matthew 13:1-23 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. 2 Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. 3 Then he told them many thing …

Risen Part 3 – Go Fish! Click here to view service John 21:1-14 19 And He *said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19. (NASB) What can we learn from what happened with the disciples after the resurrection? Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea o …

Risen Part 2 – No Doubt About It! Click here to view service Luke 24:1-12; Selected Texts On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not …

Risen Part 1 – The King Has Arrived! Click to view service Luke 19:28-42 28 After Jesus had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 As he approached Bethphage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them, 30 “Go to the village ahead …

Click to view service Joy on the Journey Part 11 – Finding Contentment Philippians 4:10-20 11 …I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. Philippians 4:11b 1)The Overarching Providence of God 10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you we …

Click here to view service Joy on the Journey Part 10 – Staying United Philippians 4:1-8 Guest Speaker: Dan Roseman 3 Grace Driven Invitations Grace helps us remember our position in Christ; remembering our position in Christ shows us how to live. “1 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I lo …

Joy on the Journey Part 9 – Applying the Winning Formula Click here for Sermon Philippians 3:17-21 17 Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. 18 For, as I have often told you before and now tell you a …

Joy on the Journey Part 8 – Racing to Win! Click here to view Feb 25 2024 Service Philippians 3:12-16 12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consid …

Joy on the Journey Part 7 – Accounting Gains and Losses Philippians 3:1-11 Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! Philippians 3:1a 19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. 20 But our citizensh …

Joy on the Journey Part 6 – Emulating Excellent Examples Philippians 2:19-30 19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. 21 For everyone looks out fo …

Joy on the Journey Part 5 – Going to Work! Philippians 2:12-18 12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order …

Joy on the Journey Part 4 – Thinking Like Jesus Philippians 2:1-11 2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Philippians 4:2 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spi …

Joy on the Journey Part 3 – Achieving Victory! Philippians 1:27-30 27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one fo …

Joy on the Journey Part 2 – Advancing the Gospel Philippians 1:12-26 For to me, to live is _________________ and to die is ________________. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21 8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify …

Joy On The Journey – A Study of Philippians Part 1 – The Secret to Experiencing Joy Philippians 1:1-11 The secret of Christian joy is found in the way we as believers think… our attitude. Outlook determines outcome. Four Primary Joy Thieves: Circumstances People Possessions Worry Joy is found in cul …

In The Waiting 1 Samuel 16:1-13; 17:33-37; 24:1-7 Pastor of Student Ministries – Jason Fenicle Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6: So do not fear, for I am with you; do n …

Good News! A Savior is Born Part 4 – Salvation Has Come for You! Luke 2:1-21 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own to …

Good News! A Savior is Born Part 3 – Joy Is Not Far Away! Luke 1:39-80 INTRO Mary went to celebrate with Elizabeth the wonderful news she had received. 39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 W …

Good News! A Savior is Born Part 2 – Grace is Freely Given Luke 1:26-38 26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The ang …

Good News! A Savior is Born Part 1 – Hope Is On the Way! Luke 1:1-25 3 He went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare …

Resolute: Pressing On When You Feel Like Giving Up Part 10 – Stay Focused Nehemiah 13 Why did the people of Jerusalem let their fire burn out; why did they lose focus? When Nehemiah left, the people lost the godly leadership they needed. With Nehemiah gone, the people lost vital accountability. With …

Resolute: Pressing On When You Feel Like Giving Up Part 9 – Give Thanks! Nehemiah 11-12 31 I had the leaders of Judah go up on top of the wall. I also assigned two large choirs to give thanks. Nehemiah 12:31 Three Ways We Can Give Thanks to God… 1)We Can Give Ourselves to God. (Nehemiah 11:1-12:26) …

Resolute: Pressing On When You Feel Like Giving Up Part 8 – Obey the Lord Nehemiah 10 38 “In view of all this, we are making a binding agreement, putting it in writing, and our leaders, our Levites and our priests are affixing their seals to it.” Nehemiah 9:38 23 The Lord makes firm the steps     of …

Resolute: Pressing On When You Feel Like Giving Up Part 7 – Worship the Lord! Nehemiah 9 5 …“Stand up and praise the Lord your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting.” Nehemiah 9:5b. Three Unique Characteristics of God That Inspire Our Worship: 1)The Greatness of God (Nehemiah 9:1-6) God reveal …

Resolute: Pressing On When You Feel Like Giving Up Part 6 – Celebrate God’s Word Nehemiah 7-8 Two Steps to Safeguard God’s Work 1)Enlist leadership! After the wall had been rebuilt and I had set the doors in place, the gatekeepers, the musicians and the Levites were appointed. 2 I put in charge of J …

Resolute: Pressing On When You Feel Like Giving Up Part 5 – Manage Opposition Nehemiah 6 3 Tactics Nehemiah’s Enemies Used to Try to Stop the Wall “1 When word came to Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab and the rest of our enemies that I had rebuilt the wall and not a gap was left in it—though up to …

Resolute: Pressing On When You Feel Like Giving Up Part 4 – Battle Selfishness Nehemiah 5 Since we tend naturally toward selfishness, we must pray intentionally for Godliness. 36 Turn my heart toward your statutes     and not toward selfish gain. Psalm 119:36 An unfriendly person pursues selfish end …

Resolute: Pressing On When You Feel Like Giving Up Part 3 – Work the Plan! Nehemiah 3-4 To achieve the good work God has called you to, develop a thoughtful plan, then work that plan! When Working a Plan… Step 1 – Enlist hard working, committed people to help! 18 …“Let us start rebuilding.” So they …

Resolute: Pressing On When You Feel Like Giving Up Part 2 – Accomplishing a Great Task Nehemiah 2 Nehemiah modeled some powerful prayer principles for us in Nehemiah 1: Nehemiah called on our great and awesome God to help! Nehemiah confessed where He and His people had failed God. Nehemiah counted o …

Resolute: Pressing On When You Feel Like Giving Up Part 1 – Pray First Nehemiah 1 1) Nehemiah cared enough to ask. The words of Nehemiah son of Hakaliah: In the month of Kislev in the twentieth year, while I was in the citadel of Susa, 2 Hanani, one of my brothers, came from Judah with some other me …

Sermon on the Mount Part 14 – Being an Authentic Follower of Jesus Matthew 7:21-27 Three Expressions of Commitment to Jesus 1) Mere Verbal Commitment 21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22  …

Sermon on the Mount Part 13 – Making Right Choices Matthew 7:13-20 13 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. 15 “Watch ou …

Sermon on the Mount Part 12 – Asking, Seeking, Knocking Matthew 7:7-11 Guest Speaker: Dan Roseman Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be …

Sermon on the Mount Part 11- Restoring Others Matthew 7:1-5 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. 3 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no atte …

Sermon on the Mount Part 10 – Overcoming Worry and Anxiety Matthew 6:25-34 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do …

Sermon on the Mount Part 9 – Making Wise Investments Matthew 6:19-24 Jesus continues to emphasize that we, as His followers, are to be distinct from popular culture. 19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But st …

Sermon on the Mount Part 8: Praying Like Jesus Matthew 6:4-18 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. Matthew 6:1 Jesus continues to emphasize His concern for heart over appearance. 5 “And wh …

Sermon on the Mount Part 7: Giving God’s Way Matthew 6:1-4 “Hypocrisy is doing the devils work in God’s uniform.” Matthew Henry. God is concerned about what takes place on the inside of our hearts. THE WARNING AGAINST HYPOCRISY Jesus is interested that his disciples not only do what is right, but th …

Sermon on the Mount Part 6: Loving the Unlovable Matthew 5:43-48 “Many have learned to offer the other cheek, but do not know how to love him by whom they were struck.” — Augustine God wants us to love those who may seem unlovable to us. Love is a distinguishing characteristic of a Christ-follower. …

Sermon on the Mount Part 5 – Turning the Other Cheek Matthew 5:38-42 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:20 When someone hurts you, what is your first instinct? Whe …

Sermon on the Mount Part 4 – Guarding My Heart Matthew 5:27-37 3 Vital Ways Jesus Helps Us Guard Our Hearts 1. Jesus broadened the prohibition of adultery to include a lustful look and an active imagination. 27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I tell you that …

Sermon on the Mount Part 3: Resolving Conflict Matthew 5:21-26 Our righteousness has far less to do with the laws we keep than with the motivation for keeping those laws. 21 “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judg …

Sermon on the Mount Part 2: Pursuing Righteousness Matthew 5:17-20 17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a …

Sermon on the Mount Part 1: Being An Influencer Matthew 5:13-16 8 Do not be like them, Matthew 6:8a. 3 You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices. 4 You must obey my laws an …

The Blessed Life: A Journey Through the Beatitudes Part 8: I Endure for Christ’s Sake Matthew 5:10-12 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,     for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn,     for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek,     for they will inherit the earth …

The Blessed Life: A Journey Through the Beatitudes Part 7 – I Pursue Peace Matthew 5:9 9 Blessed are the peacemakers,     for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9 14 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14 …

The Blessed Life Part 6 – Pure in Heart Matthew 5:8 Guest Speaker: Dan Roseman Jesus gives the Beatitudes as part of his Sermon on the Mount where he teaches the surprising ways his followers are to live in order to have a blessed life. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Matthew …

The Blessed Life: A Journey Through The Beatitudes Part 5 – I Crave Mercy Matthew 5:7 7 Blessed are the merciful,     for they will be shown mercy. Matthew 5:7 Mercy is a defining attribute of God. 6 And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious Go …

The Blessed Life: A Journey Through the Beatitudes Part 4 – I Long To Be Like Christ Matthew 5:6 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,     for they will be filled. Matthew 5:6 The Bible speaks of righteousness in two ways: First, there is the righteousness that Christ gives yo …

The Blessed Life: A Journey Through the Beatitudes Part 3 – I Give Up Control Matthew 5:5 5 Blessed are the meek,     for they will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5 Meekness is controlled strength. The silver bullet for meekness is submission. Three Key Areas To Submit in Life 1) Submit to God’s Word …

The Blessed Life: A Journey Through Beatitudes Part 2 – I Long for Change Matthew 5:4 4 Blessed are those who mourn,     for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4 Three kinds of mourning you could experience in life: Natural mourning over the loss of someone you love dearly. Sinful mourning is yearnin …

The Blessed Life: Journey Through the Beatitudes Part 1 – I Bring Nothing Matthew 5:3 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,     for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn,     for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek,     for they will inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are …

Baptism: New Life in Christ! Matthew 28:18-20; 2 Corinthians 5:17 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and …

The Week That Changed the World Part 7 – The Resurrection John 20-21 32 They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid. Again he took the Twelve aside and told them what was going to happen to him. 33 “We ar …

The Week That Changed the World Part 6: The Garden, Trials and Crucifixion Mark 14-15 Three Major Events on Good Friday 1) The Agony in the Garden 32 They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 He took Peter, James and John along with him, and …

The Week That Changed the World Part 5: The Betrayals of Jesus Matthew 26; Selected Texts 21 And while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.” Matthew 26:21. 22 They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, “Surely you don’t mean me, Lord?” Matthew …

The Week That Changed the World Part 4 – The Last Supper Mark 14 and John 13 Five Observations in The Last Supper 1) Jesus Prioritized the Passover. 12 On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, when it was customary to sacrifice the Passover lamb, Jesus’ disciples asked him, “Where do yo …

The Week That Changed The World Part 3 – Get Ready and Stay Ready! Matthew 24 1 Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. 2 “Do you see all these things?” he asked. “Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on anothe …

The Week That Changed The World Part 2 – Vital Life Lessons Matthew 21; Mark 11-12 Six Vital Life Lessons 1) God’s house must be pure and free from ungodliness. 12 Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and …

The Week That Changed the World Part 1 – The Triumphal Entry Matthew 21:1-11 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Un …

Prayer Matters: Praying with Power and Purpose Part 8: Deliver Us From Evil Matthew 6:14 9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done,     on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us …

Prayer Matters: Praying with Power and Purpose Part 7: Forgive Us Our Debts Matthew 6:12 9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done,     on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us …

Prayer Matters: Praying with Power and Purpose Part 6 – Ask for Daily Bread Matthew 6:11 9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done,     on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us …

Prayer Matter – Praying with Power and Purpose Part 5 – Seek God’s Kingdom and HIs Will Matthew 6:10 9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done,     on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 An …

Prayer Matters: Praying with Power and Purpose Part 4 – Draw Near to God Matthew 6:9 9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done,     on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our …

Prayer Matters: Praying with Power and Purpose Part 3 – How to Pray the Way Jesus Taught Matthew 6:1;5-8 What might keep people from praying daily?  Too busy Too distracted Not sure what or how to pray Don’t see much value in it One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of …

Prayer Matters: Praying with Power and Purpose Part 2: Know Prayer’s Purpose Adversity invites prayer. Thoughts related to prayer… “I’m not very good at praying.” “I’m not sure how to pray.” “I’m not convinced that God cares about what is on my mind.” Prayer is the way we communicate with the Lord a …

Prayer Matters: Praying with Power and Purpose Part 1 – Know God’s Voice 1 Samuel 3 (Guest Speaker: Dan Roseman) Prayer is most effective when we recognize God’s voice. 1) Prayer is our first response, not our last resort. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; …

True Story: Unwrapping the Truth about Christmas Part 4: Christmas is for You! 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. John 1:4 Life must have meaning beyond this world; and Jesus’ birth, His life, His death and His resurrection gives life meaning for you and for me! Do you th …

True Story: Unwrapping the Truth About Christmas Part 3: The Virgin Birth Really Happened! 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” …

True Story: Unwrapping the Truth About Christmas Part 2 – The Gospels Can Be Trusted Are the Gospels like a decades long game of Gossip? The Gospels Aren’t Like the Game Gossip. 1) The Gospel stories weren’t whispered along a single line and interpreted by each hearer; they were boldly proclaimed fr …

True Story – Unwrapping The Truth About Christmas Part 1 – Jesus was a Real Person “Now faith confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1. In the Bible, when we see the word “hope”, it contains no doubt. 40% of adults in the UK either don’t believe Jesus was …

How to Develop An Attitude of Gratitude Psalm 100 1 Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. 2 Worship the Lord with gladness;     come before him with joyful songs. 3 Know that the Lord is God.     It is he who made us, and we are his;     we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his g …

Jonah: The Reluctant Servant Part 4 – When Grace is Hard to Swallow Jonah 4 The Ninevites, who Jonah hates, have now repented and God has relented of his judgment against them. Instead of celebrating the fact that they have repented, Jonah is angry. Jonah’s anger gives us an opportunity to take a lo …

Jonah: The Reluctant Servant Part 3 – When Turning Back Is The Right Way Forward Jonah 3 1 Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.” 3 Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord and went to Nineveh. Now Nineveh was a …

Jonah – The Reluctant Servant Part 2 – When God Gets Your Attention Jonah 2 When God has your attention, it’s time to start praying! 1 From inside the fish Jonah prayed to the Lord his God. Jonah 2:1a When God Gets Your Attention…. 1)It’s time to turn your life around! 2 Jonah said: “In my distress …

Jonah – The Reluctant Servant Part 1 – When Running Away Isn’t the Answer 1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.” 3 But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. Jonah 1: …

The Bridge Part 3 – The Cost of Discipleship Luke 14:25-33 3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you …

The Bridge Part 2 – Bridge Building 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6 Great Commission – Matthew 28:18-20… Make disciples by going, baptizing and teaching! Great Commandment – Matthew 22:37-38 …

The Bridge – From What is to What Will Be Part 1 – Our Vision Matt. 22:37-40; 28:18-20; Phil 1:6 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the So …

Multiply Part 22 – How God Is At Work Even When You Think He Isn’t Acts 28 1) God always provides for our needs, and sometimes in “unusual” ways! 2 The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. Acts 28:2 3 Paul gathered a pile of bru …

Multiply Part 21 – How to Persevere When Life Is Severe Acts 27 When it was decided that we would sail for Italy, Paul and some other prisoners were handed over to a centurion named Julius, who belonged to the Imperial Regiment. 2 We boarded a ship from Adramyttium about to sail for ports along the …

Multiply Part 20 – How to Persuade Someone to Follow Jesus Acts 25-26 8 Then Paul made his defense: “I have done nothing wrong against the Jewish law or against the temple or against Caesar.” 9 Festus, wishing to do the Jews a favor, said to Paul, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and stand tri …

Multiply Part 19 – How To Keep My Conscience Clean Acts 23-24 Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin and said, “My brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day.” Acts 23:1 30 The commander wanted to find out exactly why Paul was being accused by the Jews. So the next d …

Multiply Part 18 – Finding Confidence in Life’s Hardships Acts 21 & 22 22 “And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. 23 I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. 24 However, I consid …

Multiply Part 17 – Making My Life Count Acts 20 24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Acts 20:24 When the uproar had ended, Paul sent for the disc …

Multiply Part 16 – Knowing God Acts 19 What does it mean to know God and have a relationship with Him? While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” Ac …

Multiply Part 15 – When You’re on Frustration and Fear Overload Acts 18 9 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. 10 For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.” Acts 18:9-11 How …

Multiply Part 14 – Responses to the Gospel Acts 17 How People Respond to the Gospel 1) Some people can be persuaded with reason and proof. 2 As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, 3 explaining and proving that the Messiah …

Multiply Part 13 – The Church Gets… Weird Acts 16 Guest Speaker: Dan Roseman 6 Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to en …

Multiply Part 12 – Resolving Conflict Acts 15 47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us: “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles,     that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” Acts 13:47 1 Certain people came down from Judea to Antioch and were teaching the believers: “Unless y …

Multiply Part 11 – Living a Life of Service Acts 13-14 1. Trust that God will use fellow believers to affirm His work in and through you. 1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the t …

Multiply Part 10 – When God is on the Move Acts 11-12 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. Acts 10:45 The apostles and the believers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the w …

Multiply Part 9 – Removing Barriers Acts 10 1 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. 2 He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. Acts 10:1-2 1) Devotion alone does n …

Multiply Part 8 – Becoming an Influencer Acts 9 1. You can use your influence to inspire or to conspire! Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found a …

Multiply Part 7: Taking the Gospel Global Acts 8 Scattering Led to a New Gathering And Saul approved of their killing him. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2 Godly men buried Stephen an …

Multiply Part 6 – Hallmarks of Faithfulness Acts 6-7 5 …They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; Acts 6:5 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:2-3   Four Hallmarks of Faithful …

Multiply Part 5 – The Importance of Integrity Acts 5 Integrity – adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty. BIG IDEA: Integrity and authenticity matter to God and they must matter to us! Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piec …

Muitiply Part 4 – How to Respond to Faith Critics Acts 4 1 The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. 2 They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurre …

Multiply Part 3 – How to Experience Refreshment Acts 3 How to Experience True Refreshment and Offer It to Others 1) True refreshment comes in and through a faith relationship with Jesus Christ! 19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come fr …

Multiply Part 2 – How to Leave a Mark for Christ Acts 2 How to Leave a Mark for Christ… Expanding My Reach and the Reach of My Church. 1) Yield yourself fully to the Holy Spirit’s leadership! When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of …

Multiply Part 1 – Sharing Your Faith in a Faithless World Acts 1 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the ve …

Light in the Darkness Part 17 – How to Get Past Your Past John 21 1 Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Galilee. It happened this way: 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (also known as Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. …

Light in the Darkness Part 16 – How to Find the Truth John 20 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; John 11:25 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” J …

Light in the Darkness Part 15: Responses to the Truth John 18-19 36 Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.” 37 “You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You sa …

Light in the Darkness Part 14 – Where the World is Wrong John 16-17 INTRO 1 “All this I have told you so that you will not fall away. 2 They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. 3 They will do such thi …

Light in the Darkness Part 13 – How Jesus Comforts Us in Troubling Times John 14-15 1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. John 14:1a 1) Jesus doesn’t abandon you… He wants you to trust in His plan and purpose! 1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 2 My Fathe …

Light in the Darkness Part 12 – Four Shocking Observations John 12-13 In these two chapters, John moves from the book of signs to the book of glory. He’s moving away from miracles that reveal who Jesus is, and into the shocking ways that Jesus reveals his glory. Six days before the Passover, Jesus c …

Light in the Darkness Part 11 – How Jesus Helps Us in Seasons of Suffering John 11 Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 (This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet wi …

Light in the Darkness Part 10 – How to Live An Abundant Life John 10 10 …I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10b. How Jesus Offers Us Abundant Life 1) Jesus provides the only door for our salvation and eternal life! 1 “Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who doe …

Light in the Darkness Part 9 – Prescription for Spiritual Blindness John 9 39 Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.” John 9:39. Prescription for Spiritual Blindness 1. Accept Jesus’ compassion for you. 1 As he went alon …

Light in the Darkness Part 8 – How to Experience Real Freedom John 8 31 ….Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”… 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:31-32; 8:36 1.  Escape t …

Light in the Darkness Part 7 – Answers to 4 Hard Questions John 7 1) Which plan should I follow?… Following God’s plan for my life is always best! 3 Jesus’ brothers said to him, “Leave Galilee and go to Judea, so that your disciples there may see the works you do. 4 No one who wants to become a publ …

Light in the Darkness Part 6 – How Jesus Exceeds Our Expectations John 6 3 Ways Jesus Exceeds Our Expectations 1. Jesus shatters our pint-sized expectations when we fully commit to Him what we have already been given! 8 Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, 9 “Here is a …

Light in the Darkness Part 5 – Steps to Spiritual Wellness John 5 6 …“Do you want to get well?” John 5:6. Five Steps to Spiritual Wellness Step 1 – Take responsibility for your spiritual wellness. 7 “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While …

Light in the Darkness Part 4 – Satisfying Your Thirst John 4 13 Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” John …

Light in the Darkness Part 3 – Answers To Unbelief John 3 Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council. John 3:1 Truth 1: If you’re curious about Jesus, get to know Him! 2 He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who …

Light in the Darkness Part 2 – How to Experience God’s Goodness John 2 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. John 2:4 29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! John 2:29 41 The first thing Andrew d …

Light in the Darkness Part 1a – Sharing Your Testimony John 1:19-42 19 Now this was John’s testimony… John 1:19a Three Testimonial Truths 1. Jesus removes the pride that infects us. 19 Now this was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was. …

Light in the Darkness How to Reflect Christ’s Light in My Life 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 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. 16 In the same way, le …

Christmas in the Gospels Part 4 – John – The Light of the World! John 1:1-18 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and …

Advent: Christmas in the Gospels Part 3 – Luke – Zechariah and Mary’s Songs Luke 1 Luke’s Advent Song Playlist: Song #1 – Zechariah’s Song from Silence 18 Zechariah asked the angel, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.” Luke 1:18 20 And now you will be sile …

Advent: Christmas in the Gospels Part 2 – Matthew Matthew 1-2 Life-Changing Advent Lessons from Matthew’s Gospel 1. We can win over sin. This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham: Matthew 1:1 11 … “‘The Lord declares to you that the Lord himself will establish a …

Advent: Christmas in the Gospels Part 1 – Mark – Get Ready! Mark 1:1-8 The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God, 2 as it is written in Isaiah the prophet: “I will send my messenger ahead of you,     who will prepare your way”— 3 “a voice of one calling in the wilderness …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 12 – Doing the hard thing… forgiveness. Philemon 1 Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker— 2 also to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier—and to the church that meets …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 11 – Crafting a Legacy in Ministry Colossians 4:7-18 7 Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. 8 I am sending him to you for the express purpose that you may know abou …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 10 – Living with Purpose Colossians 4:2-6 What is your purpose in life? 2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, fo …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 9: Honoring Christ in the Workplace Colossians 3:22-4:1 22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23 Whatever …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 8 – Recipe for a Healthy Home Colossians 3:18-21 18 Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. 20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases th …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 7: Three Ways to Live for Christ Colossians 3:1-17 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 6 – When Surrender is Not Defeat Colossians 2:11-23 11 In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off when you were circumcised by Christ, 12 having been buried wit …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 5 – Keeping My Eye On the Ball Colossians 2:1-10 I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. 2 My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so th …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 4 – How to Grow Up as a Believer Colossians 1:24-29 24 Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church. 25 I have become …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 3: Who is Jesus? Colossians 1:15-23 15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 2 – How to Live a God-Pleasing Life Colossians 1:9-14 9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understand …

Steadfast: Living for Christ in a Wayward World Part 1: Rooted in Truth Colossians 1:1-8 3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people— 5 the faith and love that sp …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 13 – Job – The Heart-Broken Believer Job In the land of Uz there lived a man whose name was Job. This man was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil. 2 He had seven sons and three daughters, 3 and he owned seven thousand sheep, three thou …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 12 – Nehemiah – The Burdened Boss Nehemiah 3 They said to me, “Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.” Nehemiah 1:3 4 W …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 11 – Esther – The Fearless Empress Esther Questions to consider…. Who deserves my utmost respect and worship? How might I react to fear? Why am I in this place, with this person, or in this situation at this moment in my life? Where can I find encourage …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 10 – Elijah – The Steadfast Servant 1 Kings 17-18 Elijah means “my God is the Lord”. Now Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, “As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few y …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 9 – Solomon – The Cunning King 1 Kings 3:5-28; Ecclesiastes 1-2 Where do people search for happiness? Pleasure People Power and Prestige Possessions 2 “Meaningless! Meaningless!”     says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless!     Everything is meaningless. …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 8: David Guest Speaker: Will Oswald On hearing the Philistine’s words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified. 1 Samuel 17:11 45 David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 7: Samson – The Flawed Fighter Judges 13-16 Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, so the Lord delivered them into the hands of the Philistines for forty years. 2 A certain man of Zorah, named Manoah, from the clan of the Danites, had a …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 6: Ruth – The Compassionate Caregiver 8 Then Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, “Go back, each of you, to your mother’s home. May the Lord show you kindness, as you have shown kindness to your dead husbands and to me. 9 May the Lord grant that each …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 5 – Gideon – The Reluctant Leader Judges 6-7 10 I said to you, ‘I am the Lord your God; do not worship the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you live.’ But you have not listened to me.” Judges 6:10. We are free to choose to obey God or not; but God wi …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 4 – Rahab the Rebel Rescuer Joshua 2:1-16 Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim. “Go, look over the land,” he said, “especially Jericho.” So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there. Joshua 2:1 2 …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 3 – Moses 23 “When Moses was forty years old, he decided to visit his own people, the Israelites. 24 He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian. 25 Moses thought that his own peo …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 2 – Joseph – Living In a Broken World of Adversity (Guest Speaker: Andy Lackey) Lesson #1 – Joseph shows us how to ___________________ temptation 6 So he left all that he had in Joseph’s charge, and because of him he had no concern about anything but th …

Heroes: Life Lessons from Faith Champions Part 1 – Abraham – Tried and Tested Genesis 12-22; Hebrews 11 16 Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham’s offspring—not only to those who are of the law but also to those who have the faith of A …

Follow Me: Becoming a Disciple of Jesus Part 8 – How can I disciple others? Matthew 28:18-20 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and …

Follow Me: Becoming a Disciple of Jesus Part 7 – What did Jesus teach about praying? Matthew 6:5-13 5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward …

Follow Me: Becoming a Disciple of Jesus Part 6 – Why should I dig deeper into Scripture? John 8:31; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 119:1-11 31 To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.” John 8:31 Two Proofs of Real Discipleship Proof 1 – Belief …

Follow Me: Becoming a Disciple of Jesus Part 5 – What is the parent’s role in discipling children? Deuteronomy 6:4-7 “Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God may not be something you do, but someone you raise.” – Andy Stanley As a parent, your most important role is leading your children to …

Follow Me: Becoming a Disciple of Jesus Part 4 – What is the cost of discipleship? When you commit to follow Jesus, you must count the cost. Jesus knew His early followers desired the benefits of what He did rather than an understanding of who He was. – John Kessler 26 “If anyone comes to me and doe …

Follow Me: Becoming a Disciple of Jesus Part 3: How can I be an effective disciple? Acts 3-4 Effective disciples make an impression and leave a mark for Jesus Christ! 13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they to …

Follow Me: Becoming a Disciple of Jesus Part 2: What are the distinguishing characteristics of a disciple? What does it mean to be a Follower of Jesus?  1. Following Jesus means loving Him above anything or anyone else in my life. 2. Following Jesus may not always be convenient. 3. Following Jesus m …

Follow Me: Becoming a Disciple of Jesus Part 1 – What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus? Luke 14:26-30;33   Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, Hebrews 6:1a. 14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the …

Easter Eyewitness Part 5 – The Women Luke 24:1-12 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 Whil …

Easter Eyewitness Part 4 – Roman Soldiers John 19 The Roman Soldiers Flog Jesus – John 19:1-3. Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. 2 The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe 3 and went up to him again and again, saying, “Hail, …

Easter Eyewitness Part 3: Pilate Luke 23:1-25 37 “You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” 38 “What is truth?” retorted Pilate. Luke …

Easter Eyewitness Part 2 – Nicodemus John 3:1-17; 7:50-52; 19:38-42 Jesus Teaches Nicodemus – John 3:1-17. How to Move from Skeptic to Believer 1. Open my eyes to the truth about who Jesus is and what He came to do. Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish rulin …

Easter Eyewitness Part 1 – Simon Peter Luke 22:31-34; 54-62; John 21:15-17 31 “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” 33 But he replied, “Lord, I am ready …

Best Practices Part 9 – The Practice of Training 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8 Living a God-honoring life, being more like Jesus, is not just about trying, it’s about tra …

Best Practices Part 8 – The Practice of Serving 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8 46 An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. 47 Jes …

Best Practices Part 7 – The Practice of Enduring Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer …

Best Practices Part 6: The Practice of Listening 8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8 What might keep us from listening? Uninterested Uncaring Selfishness Distracted 42 …