Sun, Jan 10, 2021
Duration: 50 mins 23 secs
Jesus faced three tests in the desert. Empowered by the Spirit and anchored by the Scriptures, the Son of God rebuffed the devils attempts to pull him from the path of obedience. This encounter proved Jesus's identity and love for his Heavenly Father. In fact, every temptation is a proving ground for our love of God. The opportunity for obedience is always available. When we know the devil's tactics and see the way of escape, we, too, can prove our love for God.
Sun, Dec 27, 2020
Duration: 40 mins 48 secs
We pay attention to powerful voices -- in the media, on the radio, and even in the wilderness. John the Baptist was one of those voices that demanded attention. He spoke of God's coming kingdom and favor for those who sought his forgiveness. John serves as an important pivot between OT expectation and Jesus's messianic ministry. When Jesus comes to him to receive baptism, the scene closes with the arresting voice of the heavenly Father, who deserves the last word on His Son.
Sun, Dec 20, 2020
Life is perilous. Every day we face dangers. Some we can predict and prepare for; others hit us unaware. Fortunately, Scripture teaches God is our rock, refuge, helper, and defender. He directs us in a way that protects us. His directions may come in the clear form of moral teaching or the curious niggling of our conscience. We do well to listen for his voice and heed his direction. The second chapter in Matthew shows the diverse paths of Herod, the Magi, and Jesus's family. The former lives by his own jealous creed. The latter two follow God's direction and experience his protection. Which path will you take?
Sun, Dec 13, 2020
Duration: 55 mins 58 secs
God has a Master Plan, which transcends our career satisfaction, physical well-being, financial security, and social lives. He sent Jesus to save us from our sins beginning a rescue plot that would reunite heaven and earth. Jesus was born in an imperfect family line, but his lineage proved God's faithfulness to his promises. God works through imperfect families. God saves us from sins. God keeps his promises. Whether it's Christmas season, springtime, or nine months into a global pandemic, these are truths are core to Christian faith.
Sun, Nov 01, 2020
Evil exists in our world. If we're not careful, we'll feed it or fall into its trap. Fortunately, the apostle Paul describes a posture, perspective, and protection available to us as we battle spiritual powers. And, when in doubt, we can pray: it is the bottom line weapon in apprehending God's protection over us.
Sun, Oct 18, 2020
Duration: 50 mins 18 secs
Sometimes we can buy knock off brands and generic products. They're close enough to the real thing that we'll gladly accept them. But no one likes a cheap imitation. RC Cola can't rival Coke. Rose Art can't copy Crayola. In Ephesians, the apostle Paul calls us to imitate Jesus. He's the real thing. We can imitate him by living a life of purity, mission, and wisdom. Without these attributes or the aid of His Spirit, our lives are a cheap imitation.
Sun, Oct 11, 2020
Duration: 37 mins 33 secs
We are all called to gospel. We preach the good news to ourselves, other believers, and lost people. We have reasons we don't follow through: fear, lack of clarity, unseen opportunities. This message will help us see the gospel working from the inside out, so that even at a Walmart checkout line we might find ourselves sharing the love of Jesus.
Sun, Sep 27, 2020
Duration: 45 mins 17 secs
Too often we view spiritual growth as an individual exercise. We do personal devotions. We make personal commitments. We mark personal progress in our individual battle against sin. We call these achievements "spiritual growth." Unfortunately, we miss a key component to God's plan for spiritual growth: the body. Ephesians 4:1-16 makes it clear, spiritual growth is a group effort. Paul urges believers to go in the same direction (character), agree to the core doctrine, and get to the final destination (Christlikeness).
Sun, Sep 20, 2020
Duration: 45 mins 33 secs
God can do amazing things. Prayer attunes our eyes to his wonders. When we pray, we sense Him building our core, flooding our hearts, and blowing our minds. This prayer from Ephesians 3:14-21 teaches us three audacious ways to talk to God. In the end, we say, "Father, wow!"
Sun, Sep 13, 2020
Duration: 47 mins 39 secs
God has given us, the church, a crucial role in His grand plan. He calls us to minister and serve, like the apostle Paul did. Our ministries are diverse and adversity may come, but Jesus wants us to join him in witnessing to the world. This is his Great Reveal.
