Mid Tree Church: Recent Episodes
Mid Tree Church
We open John 15 and sit with Jesus’s invitation to stop striving for spiritual fruit and start remaining in him as the true vine. We talk honestly about weakness, suffering, and loss, and why the Father’s pruning can be a sign of love, not rejection.
• the disciples’ fears as Jesus says he is going away
• why “true vine” points beyond Israel to Jesus himself
• abiding as making a home in Christ, not occasional visits
• the difference between proximity to Jesus and abiding in Jesus
• self-examination that looks for rootedness, not a religious resume
• Noah’s ark as a picture of resting while God navigates storms
• branches that never bear fruit, and what chokes spiritual life
• pruning as the Father’s careful cultivation, even through pain
• prayer shaped by God’s Word and aligned with his will
• being invited into the Father’s love for the Son
• joy that runs deeper than happiness and circumstances
• the final invitation to come home, remain, and let fruit grow
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Troubled hearts do not need a vague spiritual slogan, they need a solid place to stand. We open John 14:1–7 inside the tense, emotional final hours before the cross, where Jesus tells his disciples hard truths: betrayal is coming, denial is coming, and he is leaving. Then he speaks a command that feels impossible until you see what he is really offering: “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.”
From there, we follow Thomas’ blunt question, the one we all ask in our own way: “How can we know the way?” Jesus does not hand over directions or a checklist. He gives himself. We unpack why John 14:6 is the core of the Christian gospel and why it is also deeply personal: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” The problem is not that we lack effort, it’s that we are not with the Father, and we cannot fix that separation on our own.
To make the point vivid, we connect John’s “farewell discourse” to Genesis 3 and the Garden of Eden, where sin turns joyful communion into hiding, fear, and spiritual death. We talk about how deception works, why small distortions of God’s Word matter, and how Jesus as truth steadies us in reality when our desires and anxieties pull us off course. Finally, we look at Jesus as life, the “tree of life” theme, and communion as a monthly, tangible reminder that Christ’s body and blood are our only hope and our deepest satisfaction.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Sometimes the most painful spiritual question is also the most practical one: if God loves us and has power, why does he wait while things fall apart? John 11 does not dodge that tension. It names it, sits in it, and then shows us what Jesus is like when death and grief take over a room.
We follow the story of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha, where Jesus hears the desperate news and delays anyway. That single choice forces us to rethink what we assume about God’s timing, God’s love, and what it means to trust when the outcome is not in our hands. Along the way, we talk about Christian grief, lament with hope, and why “God is in control” can be true while still being a terrible bandage over real wounds.
Then the scene turns and we watch Jesus do two things that belong together: he weeps and he acts. We dig into the shock of “Jesus wept,” his righteous anger at what sin and death have done to creation, and the boldness of praying for healing without pretending we control God. Finally, we land on the claim at the heart of the Gospel of John: “I am the resurrection and the life.” Resurrection is not just an event we want, it is a Person we either trust or reject.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We open John 10 and meet Jesus as the Good Shepherd who freely chooses the cross so His sheep can live. We confront false shepherding that protects self, then rest in the startling promise that Jesus knows us deeply and gathers one flock from every nation. He’s declaring Himself as the Shepherd God promised in the Old Testament, the One who searches for the lost and rescues the scattered.
We connect the moment to John 9, where religious leaders cast out a man Jesus healed, and we feel the sting of what false shepherding looks like in any generation. Then we slow down over the center of the gospel: “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” We talk about the cross as a voluntary choice, a substitutionary sacrifice, and a victorious rescue that actually saves, not just inspires. If you’re carrying guilt or shame, this passage pushes back hard: there is real security for those who belong to Christ.
From there, the tone turns deeply personal. Jesus says He knows His sheep with a covenant, relational knowing, and He invites us to more than facts and religious activity. Finally, we zoom out to His mission: other sheep from outside the fold, one flock from every nation, and a Shepherd who will not fail to gather His people. If this encourages you, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review so more people can hear the Good Shepherd’s voice.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
“Jesus never said He was God” sounds confident until you slow down and read John 10 the way the original audience heard it. We walk through Jesus’ words, “I am the door,” and show why that “I am” language is a direct claim to divine identity rooted in Exodus 3:14. Once you add cultural and historical context, the passage stops feeling like a soft metaphor and starts sounding like a confrontation: false leaders climb in, the true Shepherd enters the right way, and Jesus alone defines how anyone gets safe.
We also talk honestly about modern “thieves” that don’t always look scary at first. Cultural Christianity can keep all the church language while quietly protecting comfort, control, and a self-centered version of faith. We contrast that with what Jesus actually offers: salvation, freedom to “go in and out,” and pasture that is often rocky but always provided. The promise is not that life gets easy, but that the Shepherd gives what we need today and keeps moving us toward what we most deeply need, which is Him.
The most surprising turn is the gospel logic under the door: Jesus doesn’t only die for our sins, He lives for our righteousness. We can’t walk into the presence of a holy God carrying our own resume, and God doesn’t grade on a curve. Through Christ, we’re cleansed and clothed, credited with His perfection by grace. We end with the two-sided reality of the door: gentle Savior now, righteous Judge one day, and the urgent invitation not to delay.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We trace Jesus’ claim “I am the light of the world” through John 9 and John 8, watching him give sight to the blind and mercy to the exposed. We walk away seeing that God’s light reveals beauty, exposes hidden sin, and shows a Savior who exposes the truth without throwing the stone.
• fireworks as a picture of light that illuminates everything nearby
• why “light” is a massive Bible theme from Genesis to Revelation
• John 9 and the blind man as a physical sign of spiritual blindness
• John 8 and the woman caught in adultery as shame dragged into public
• our fear of being fully known and not loved
• Jesus stooping to the dirt and refusing condemnation
• the gospel logic of the only sinless judge extending mercy
• three outcomes for hidden sin: confession, exposure, or darkness
• bringing sin into the light with wise community
• the cross as the Light lifted up for all to see
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
A full stomach is easy to recognize. A hungry soul is harder to name, and even harder to satisfy. We open John 6 with Jesus’ famous claim, “I am the bread of life,” and we follow the story behind it: the feeding of the five thousand, the crowd’s obsession with the sign, and the quiet warning that you can chase miracles while still missing the meaning.
We wrestle with the question the crowd asks and we still ask today: “What must we do?” Jesus answers with gospel simplicity and clarity, calling belief the work God requires. From there we examine the subtle ways we try to improve the message: adding extra requirements that create guilt and judgment, or adding extra benefits as if Jesus isn’t enough. Along the way, we connect Jesus’ “I am” to God’s name in Exodus and show why that little phrase carries thunder.
Bread runs through the whole Bible, from manna in the wilderness to daily bread in prayer to table fellowship in God’s presence. Jesus gathers all of it into Himself: dependable provision, intimate relationship, and a life that is not only eternal but abundant now. We also face the hard saying about eating His flesh and drinking His blood, and why it points us toward communion and a daily, desperate hunger for Christ rather than shelf-life religion.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Eternal life is not a finish line. It’s a relationship. We open John 17 and let Jesus tell us, in his own words, what “true life” actually is: knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ. From there, we follow the thread back to John 8 where Jesus says “I Am,” not as a poetic detail but as a direct claim to divine identity. That changes everything, because the goal is not to be vaguely “good with God,” but to be brought all the way home into the family of God.
We also get practical about what Jesus prays for us right before the cross: protection from the evil one, sanctification in truth, and a unity that looks so unlike normal human comfort that the world has to ask questions. We talk about spiritual disciplines, staying rooted in the local church when it gets messy, and why growth can feel like surgery. Since it’s Father’s Day, we connect it to parenting with a memorable metaphor: dads carry an invisible paintbrush, and our kids learn what God is like through what we paint over time.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Daniel 7 is not a gentle passage. It is a storm at sea, a parade of beasts, a boastful horn, and a vision so intense that even Daniel, the man known for calm confidence, admits he is anxious and alarmed. That honesty opens a door for anyone who has ever thought, “I’m not myself right now,” and wondered what faith looks like when your usual steadiness disappears.
We walk through the imagery with care, starting with why the “great sea” signals chaos in the biblical imagination and why the beasts feel like jump scares on purpose. We talk about how many interpreters connect the four beasts to real empires like Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece under Alexander the Great, and Rome, and why prophecy is not meant to feed panic but to form resilient hope. Then the camera cuts to the throne room: the Ancient of Days takes His seat, the court sits in judgment, and the books are opened. While the world churns, God is not rattled.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
A story you think you know can still catch you off guard. Daniel 6 isn’t just about surviving lions, it’s about surviving envy, unfair systems, and the slow burn of comparison. We dig into why the most powerful people in the empire can’t tolerate one faithful man being a step ahead, and how jealousy turns into a plan to trap Daniel by targeting his prayer life. If you’ve felt the tension of standing out at work, being misunderstood for your convictions, or watching someone else’s “blessing” mess with your contentment, this message lands close to home.
We also slow down on what makes Daniel so compelling: his integrity is so consistent that his enemies can’t find a real accusation. The only leverage they have is his devotion to God. That kind of faithful character can put a target on your back, but it also places you in the path of God’s grace. From there, we get intensely practical about building a durable prayer life, not as a last-second rescue plan, but as a daily rhythm. We share simple, actionable steps like choosing a time or season to pray, picking a quiet place, using your body in prayer, praying Scripture, praying boldly and specifically, tracking answers, and praying with others.
Then the story flips in a way most people miss: Daniel is calm in the den while King Darius panics all night on the palace bed. We explore the difference between having hope that God can act and having peace rooted in a prayer-worn relationship with him. Along the way, we trace the stunning parallels between Daniel’s unjust suffering and Jesus, from being seized while praying to the sealed stone and the dawn rush toward deliverance.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
A thousand-person party. Stolen holy vessels turned into drinkware. A ruler so sure of himself he celebrates while an enemy army sits outside the gates. Then the music dies when a human hand starts writing on the wall in the brightest part of the room, and everyone sobers up at once.
We open Daniel 5 and follow the story of King Belshazzar’s pride, panic, and sudden downfall. The king calls in every wise man he can find, but no one can help until the queen remembers Daniel, an older, forgotten servant of God who still carries clarity, courage, and spiritual backbone. Daniel refuses the king’s rewards, tells the truth about Nebuchadnezzar’s warning, and names the real issue: “You knew all this,” but you would not humble your heart.
We also slow down on the meaning of the message: numbered, weighed, divided. It’s a sober reminder that our lives are not self-owned, and that judgment isn’t about a lack of information but about ignored light. At the same time, we connect the warning to the hope of the gospel: we don’t stand before God with a list of accomplishments, we stand with the grace of Jesus Christ, the one who carries what we cannot.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
One dream. One towering tree. One sentence that cuts through our noise: “the Most High rules the kingdom of men.” Daniel 4 is a story about the humbling of Nebuchadnezzar, but it lands on all of us because pride rarely announces itself. Sometimes it looks like competence, independence, or the quiet belief that we can run our lives without help, without prayer, and without surrender.
We walk through the dream that turns from a beautiful picture of strength into a warning from heaven, then we sit with the mercy tucked inside the severity: the stump remains, the suffering has a limit, and God’s intent is restoration, not destruction. Along the way, we notice Daniel’s surprising heart for the king who harmed him and connect that to Jesus’ call to love your enemies, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who abuse you.
We also get practical about repentance, because Daniel’s counsel is not sentimental. Repentance is not vague regret; it is turning with action, practicing righteousness, and showing mercy where we have ignored it. The turning point for Nebuchadnezzar is simple and life-changing: he lifts his eyes to heaven, and his reason returns.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We walk through Daniel 3 and watch Nebuchadnezzar move from “Who is the god who can deliver you?” to blessing the Most High God. We wrestle with where we run when pressure hits and why real faith stays steady even when the outcome is unknown.
• Nebuchadnezzar’s gold statue as a picture of self-worship
• The shift from lowercase g gods to the one true God
• A personal gut-check on where we seek deliverance
• Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego’s resolved refusal to bow
• Faith as assurance plus conviction even if God says no
• The furnace heated sevenfold and the cost of obedience
• The fourth man in the fire and Jesus as the door
• Why they have to be told to come out
• The fire burning only the restraints
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We celebrate child dedications on Mother’s Day and name the joy and grief many people carry when they walk into church. We open 2 Timothy 1 to ask how we become like Daniel and raise kids with resilient faith while living in a world that pushes the other way.
• child dedication as parents and church family making shared commitments
• honoring mothers while making space for loss, infertility, and longing
• the question of living in “Babylon” and pursuing faithful formation anyway
• Timothy as a case study for sincere faith shaped over time
• spiritual imbalance at home and why Scripture does not hide it
• godly mentors and intergenerational relationships that keep faith alive
• “plant trees you will not sit under” as a picture of long obedience
• mothers and grandmothers as primary channels of faith formation
• God using imperfect homes to form deeply faithful people
• fanning spiritual gifts into flame and refusing cruise control Christianity
• gifts growing in the church and being sent out into the world
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We walk through Daniel 2 as a life-or-death demand forces Daniel to choose conviction over clarity. The story turns into a practical call to pray, rest, and stop feeding anxiety while the God of heaven builds a kingdom that outlasts every “fort” we try to build.
• Nebuchadnezzar’s impossible demand and the collapse of human wisdom
• Daniel’s prudence and courage as a teenager under threat
• Conviction before clarity as a definition of Christian confidence
• Prayer with friends and God revealing the mystery
• Sleep and rest as a spiritual issue and a gift from God
• Jesus’ command to not be anxious about needs or tomorrow
• Interceding for others instead of saving ourselves alone
• The statue vision and the rock that becomes an everlasting kingdom
• Choosing between building our own kingdom or trusting the Master Architect
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
God’s sovereignty sits underneath the chaos of exile, so we can face a world that doesn’t make sense without handing the story over to fear. We trace how Babylon tries to remake people through assimilation and how Daniel’s quiet resolve becomes a blueprint for faithfulness in hard places.
• the missing battle details in Daniel 1 and why “The Lord gave” is the point
• God ruling as cities, lives, and hopes rise and fall
• Babylon’s strategy of conquest, temptation, and identity reshaping
• the difference between Nebuchadnezzar’s finished-product mindset and Jesus calling the weak
• why the renaming of Daniel and his friends targets worship and belonging
• Daniel’s refusal of the king’s food and the question behind discernment: unto what
• quiet resolve before public reward and why holiness often starts unseen
• honoring authority without losing conviction and asking for wise permission
• God giving favor, wisdom, and skill that the world cannot manufacture
• why Scripture celebrates faithfulness in Babylon more than escape from Babylon
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We read large sections of Daniel together and wrestle with what faithful living looks like under cultural pressure, from the small compromises of comfort to the public cost of courage. We trace God’s sovereignty over kings and empires while asking what it means to trust him with a steady “but if not” faith across decades.
• why slowing down to read longer Scripture forms us in an entertainment-driven culture
• Daniel as real history and ordinary people God uses
• conviction in youth and faithfulness across the decades
• when to seek the good of the city and when to draw a clear line
• prayerful courage that makes the appointment before the answer comes
• “our God is able, but if not” as a model for suffering and trust
• comfort as a quiet rival to holiness and allegiance
• pride that dehumanizes and a God who humbles rulers
• holding leaders accountable while remembering God’s sovereignty
• Daniel in the lions’ den as a picture of deliverance and resurrection hope
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We start a new series in Daniel by tracing how God’s people end up in Babylon and what it means to live faithful lives inside a broken kingdom. We wrestle with God’s discipline, the pain of paying for sins we didn’t choose, and the hope that God never wastes sacrifice because he did not waste his Son.
• why the church turns to the Book of Daniel now and what faithfulness can look like in a fractured culture
• the storyline from creation to exile and the warning against wanting the best of God and the world
• Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar, and the pressure to treat God as one option among many
• the core theology of Daniel: one God over all places, all times, and all power
• why God oversees discipline needed for good ends
• suffering reframed as God removing goodness rather than simply adding pain
• a clear picture of hell as the absence of God’s good gifts
• Manasseh, leadership sin, and why judgment can be appropriate
• the reality of paying for the sins of parents and rulers we did not pick
• God never wastes sacrifice and God never wastes faithfulness
• how Daniel’s story echoes Jesus through Psalm 22 and the promise of hope
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We chase confidence in all the wrong places, then wonder why fear keeps winning when life gets hard. We open Hebrews 10 to see how the finished work of Jesus and the resurrection create a clean conscience, steady hope, and a community that helps us hold on.
• why Easter confidence is built for dark days
• welcoming the seasoned churchgoer, the seeker and the skeptic
• what Hebrews means by confidence through the blood of Jesus
• defining sin as missing the mark
• the three default moves: ignoring sin, outperforming others and trying to pay for it
• why endless religious effort is exhausting and cannot erase guilt
• the jet ski story as a picture of self-reliance and suffering
• “it is finished” as the foundation for assurance
• drawing near with honesty plus full assurance
• holding fast because Jesus is faithful even when we are not
• stirring one another up through encouragement, love, good works and meeting together
Grab one of the cards that’s in front of you. It’ll give you a chance to jot down a prayer. It’ll give you a chance to meet with the pastor, receive prayer. There will be a number of us praying on the back porch if you want to join us.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The last lines of Colossians look like a throwaway list of names until you realize Paul is doing something intentional: he’s putting faces to the gospel. We walk through Colossians 4:7–18 like end credits, showing how Christian doctrine becomes a lived, shared reality through people who serve, encourage, pray, forgive, and keep going when it costs them.
We talk about Onesimus, a runaway slave who meets Jesus and then walks straight back into the hardest conversation of his life as a “beloved brother.” We trace Mark’s arc from quitting and causing a painful split to being welcomed again as “useful,” a concrete picture of forgiveness without an asterisk. We don’t skip the quiet hero, Nympha, who hosts a church in her home, reminding us that faithfulness in ordinary work is still worship.
The tone sharpens with Demas, who starts near Paul and later deserts him “in love with this present world.” That warning leads into Epaphras’ prayer for spiritual maturity and full assurance in the will of God, plus a clear, grounding answer to the question “What is the chief end of man?” To glorify God and enjoy Him forever, learning to delight in Him instead of using Him. If you want to grow, encourage others, and finish well, this one is for you.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We open Colossians 3:18–4:1 and let God’s design for a household confront our instincts, our excuses, and our scorekeeping. We keep returning to the same aim: serve the Lord Christ first, and let that reshape marriage, parenting, work, and the way we use authority.
• why this passage creates tension for every role in the room
• the hierarchy of a godly household as an aspiration, not a weapon
• why this is about household order more than a generic gender debate
• God’s design confronting what culture calls sensible
• service replacing scorekeeping and moving Jesus back to the center
• why Scripture starts with service before authority
• wives submitting in the Lord with safeguards and humility
• husbands loving without harshness and using truth with rejoicing
• a real-life look at how tone changes hard conversations
• encouragement for singles, divorced, and widowed to rejoice in Christ’s faithful love
• children obeying because it pleases the Lord
• fathers disciplining without provoking, vexing, or discouraging
• bondservants and masters as a complex relationship under a higher Master
• the Exodus 21 image of pierced belonging pointing to the cross and a new family
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The moment we stop treating Colossians 3 like a checklist and start wearing it like a robe, everything changes. We open with the text—compassion, kindness, humility, patience, forgiveness, love—and name the tension: these can feel like smoke in the eyes or like warmth by the fire. From there we walk the path Paul lays out, moving from “put to death” to “put on,” from battle to belonging, and we talk candidly about what happens when grievance sets up camp in the heart.
We share why “Do I forgive?” is the wrong question and how “How do I forgive?” becomes a doorway to freedom. Drawing on Jesus’ parable of canceled debts, we confront our quiet desire to be “small sinners” and discover the joy of being greatly forgiven. We also get practical about pace and posture: letting the peace of Christ rule looks like moving slower, talking less, and resisting the urge to fix everyone else. The only thing we’re called to control is ourselves, and that self-control reframes when to correct and when to wait, choosing the good of others over the itch to be right.
Harmony doesn’t come from sameness; it grows where love binds differences. We explore how a community can teach, admonish, and still sing together without fracturing—because gratitude keeps the heart soft and the word of Christ keeps it steady. Along the way we touch on worship nostalgia, why restraint is a form of wisdom, and how a simple pause at the door—asking God to let peace rule—can transform a home, a team, or a church. If you’re tired of carrying old wars into new rooms, this study invites you to lay them down and live clothed in Christ’s righteousness.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if your most disciplined efforts still can’t touch the root of your struggle? We open Colossians 3 and confront two convincing counterfeits: the treadmill of strict rule keeping and the treadmill of frantic escape. Both have an appearance of wisdom. Neither can kill sin. The gospel offers a better way—run to Christ, not away from failure or toward performance.
We walk through Paul’s freeing order: you have died with Christ, your life is hidden with Christ in God, and you will appear with him in glory. That sequence reshapes how we fight sin, moving us from white-knuckle “stop that” to worshipful “seek this.” From there we face the hard list—sexual immorality, impurity, evil desire, covetousness—and the everyday poisons of anger, malice, slander, obscene talk, and lying. Rather than tolerating a “manageable” level, we learn what it means to put sin to death and to put on the new self that is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its Creator.
You’ll hear a practical, two-minute framework to retrain your thoughts using Philippians 4:8: name the dominant thought, test it through true-honorable-just-pure-lovely-commendable-excellent-praiseworthy, replace it with Scripture, and take one concrete step of obedience. We apply it to jealousy, anxiety, and lust—with Scripture-shaped sentences and next steps that shift your focus from running from sin to running toward Christ. Along the way, we celebrate the unity of the body where labels fade and “Christ is all and in all,” and we anchor the whole journey in communion, where we receive what we cannot produce: forgiveness, power, and presence.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Legalism creeps in wearing the mask of spiritual ambition. We take on extra rules, elevate our preferences, and forget that Paul calls them shadows while the substance is Christ. Today we sit with Colossians 2 and let its sharp “therefore” reframe everything: don’t let anyone judge you on food, drink, or special days; don’t let anyone disqualify you with ascetic flexes, angel talk, or breathless visions. The gospel cancels the record of debt, disarms rulers, and places you on a podium you did not earn—so stop letting secondary standards steal your joy.
We trace how this plays out on the ground. From Peter and John’s calm defiance in Acts 4 to Jesus’ teaching on fasting with the Bridegroom present, we see that wisdom is good, but “Jesus plus” is deadly. Loud voices often rise where Scripture stays quiet; that’s our cue to raise antennas, not new rules. We name the modern list—hair, diets, school choices, entertainment, frequency of communion—and show how majoring on minors wrecks churches, marriages, and friendships. Then we anchor in a picture you won’t forget: two high jumpers choosing two golds. Your gold doesn’t dim because someone else has one; grace multiplies without dividing.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
A strange question opens a surprising door: why was Jesus baptized if he had no sin? We take that question straight into Colossians 2:11–15 and uncover the heartbeat of the Christian life—union with Christ. Not a slogan, not a side note, but the reality that relocates us into Jesus’ death and resurrection, where our record of debt is canceled and the powers that shamed us are put to open shame.
We trace three vivid pictures that make union tangible. First, representation: like David defeating Goliath for Israel, Christ wins and we share the victory. Second, marriage: two become one, and Paul says this mystery points to Jesus and his people—real attachment, not mere agreement. Third, adoption: a Father who delights to give, teaching our anxious hearts to stop storing scraps and trust his table. These images carry us to two signs—spiritual circumcision that marks our belonging to Christ, and baptism that proclaims we are buried with him and raised to new life.
Along the way, we press into the engine of it all: through faith, not works. Faith joins us to the righteousness of Another. That changes everything. Penalty is gone because our debt was nailed to the cross. Power is broken because Christ disarmed rulers and authorities. The battlefield that once terrified us becomes ground for courage and joy. Baptism isn’t a box to check; it’s a living map for discipleship—down into death to the old self, up into the newness of life by the Spirit.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if the most dangerous ideas aren’t the obvious lies but the ones that feel like common sense? We walk through Colossians 2 to expose the “plausible arguments” that quietly drain spiritual life, then rebuild on a better foundation: receiving Christ, walking in his Spirit, and abounding in thanksgiving. Along the way, we unpack Paul’s twin qualifiers for a healthy walk—rooted and built up—and why truth without love feels like a threat while love without truth collapses under pressure.
We get practical about discernment in a world of experts and 38‑second reels. From the “elemental spirits” of the age to human traditions and slick self-improvement scripts, not everything is false, but the center matters. Instead of treating your soul like a device due for an update, we explore how Jesus gives a new heart and then renews us day by day. Using a “panning for gold” approach, we share how to swirl what you watch and read until the weighty things settle—Scripture, the fruit of the Spirit, tested wisdom—while the chaff washes away.
Anchored by Job 28’s aching question—where does wisdom come from?—we point to the fear of the Lord and the fullness of Christ. If all the fullness of deity dwells in him and we are filled in him, then faith can’t be tucked into Sunday; it must shape mind, habits, relationships, and hope. Expect strong takeaways on resisting cultural drift, building convictions that are kind, and practicing a whole-life Christianity that breathes gratitude.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if the point of pain wasn’t punishment but participation? We open Colossians 1:21–23 and hold the phrase “for your sake” up to the light, letting communion re-teach us who we were, who we are, and what we’re becoming. Christ didn’t hand us a map; he stepped into our alienation and reconciled us by his own body and blood so we could be presented holy, blameless, and above reproach. That purpose pulls us beyond a “get out of trouble” faith and into a life that matures, serves, and sacrifices with joy.
We talk candidly about continuing in the faith—stable, steadfast, and not shifting—and how the real anchor isn’t our perfect track record but our stubborn grip on the hope of the gospel. Expect spills. The bike isn’t the problem; the rider is learning balance. From confession without hiding to correction without shame, we explore a rhythm of growth that trades coasting for courage. Suffering becomes a classroom where God builds breadth in our love and depth in our character.
Along the way, we widen the lens: Paul rejoices in his sufferings “for your sake” and for the sake of the church he may never meet. That’s our call too. We reveal the riches of Jesus to neighbors and nations not with spectacle but with steady, sacrificial presence. We also share how we’re approaching a capital campaign through prayer, not pressure—inviting everyone to move from convenience to discipline to delight in generosity so we can pay down debt, make room to grow, and serve the community with open hands. The window for sacrifice is brief; glory closes it forever. So let’s redeem the moment, hold fast to the gospel, and ride together.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if your 9–5, your Sunday worship, and your hardest relationships were all reshaped by two truths: Jesus leads the church he bled for, and he reconciles all things through his cross? We open Colossians 1:18–20 and Philippians 2 to trace how Christ’s headship and humility give uncommon dignity to ordinary work and real hope to fractured places.
We start by dismantling the sacred–secular divide. Drawing from Tim Keller’s insight, we explore why no task is too small to hold the weight of glory when done as an image bearer. Jesus doesn’t lead from a distance; he is the firstborn from the dead, the one who holds all things together and was willing to be torn apart. That love lifts the gathered church beyond routine and calls us to prize the 90 minutes we share—singing one song, opening one Word—as something Christ deeply values.
Then we look at Jesus’ work ethic: service, emptying, humility. Philippians 2 invites us to “have this mind,” not as an unreachable ideal but as our new operating system. We live as stewards, not owners; servants, not sovereigns. Instead of clinging to a comfortable middle, we practice a life-giving rhythm—filled to capacity by Scripture and worship, then poured out in generosity, presence, and witness. Built on Christ, not charisma, a church can limp without collapsing because its center holds.
Finally, we press into reconciliation. Colossians claims that through the blood of the cross, Christ reunites what sin fractured in heaven and on earth. That promise disarms bitterness, loosens control, and makes forgiveness plausible. It also moves mission close to home: caring not only for the nations but for our neighbors, dwelling with people as Christ dwelt among us. When work feels small, when conflict lingers, when hope thins, we return to the cross—the only place where lasting peace is made.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Start with the biggest claim you can make about a person: He is the image of the invisible God. We walk through Colossians 1:15–17 to meet Jesus not as an abstract idea but as the One who made all things, owns all things, and holds all things together—and then we ask what that means for a regular week at work and at home. If everything is by Him, through Him, and for Him, then purpose saturates both the cosmic and the ordinary.
We unpack what “firstborn over all creation” really means: not first created, but highest in rank, rightful heir, and head who sets the agenda. That lens turns stewardship into a way of life. Your time, gifts, relationships, and decisions belong to Christ; you manage them under His authority. We trace how this touches discipleship, mission, and everyday obedience, trading ownership for trust and hustle for faithfulness.
To right-size our worries, we zoom from ant farms to the Bubble Nebula and back to the heart: the same Christ who flung stars into their places is the Christ who never shrugs at your pain. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together—marriages on the mend, friendships in tension, bodies that ache, plans that change. We look honestly at our limits in authority, holiness, and power, and then locate our worth where it belongs: in the One who represents us and loves us with a permanent, nail-scarred resolve.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if you stopped guessing God’s will like a blindfolded dart throw and started walking in it every day? In Colossians 1:9–14, we unpack Paul’s prayer and discover that guidance isn’t reserved for crises or special moments. It’s the steady result of being filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so we can walk worthy of the Lord and live a life that fully pleases Him.
We start by reframing what a “good week” looks like under the supremacy of Christ. Then we lay out God’s general will that applies to every believer: care about souls, pursue sanctification, be filled with the Spirit, silence fools by doing good, and expect suffering to become a platform for the gospel. From there, we move to practical discernment for the 10,000 decisions Scripture doesn’t list—relationships, jobs, school, care for aging parents—using a clear four-step framework: pray to be Spirit-filled, confirm through the Word, evaluate the fruit over time, and invite faithful believers into your process.
This approach replaces anxiety with purpose. As we walk this way, Colossians promises real outcomes: we bear fruit in every good work, grow in the knowledge of God, and receive strength according to His glorious might for endurance, patience, and joy. Gratitude rises because the Father has delivered us from darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of His beloved Son, where redemption and forgiveness define our identity. If you’re ready to trade guessing for guidance and activity for fruitfulness, press play, take notes, and let’s walk worthy together.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
A man in chains asks for one thing: an open door for the word. From that surprising request, we follow Paul’s greeting to the Colossians into a sweeping vision that can reframe a whole week. We talk candidly about why trying to “be more patient” on a Tuesday often runs on fumes, how starting with the supremacy of Christ changes our reserves, and why hope laid up in heaven becomes fuel for faith and love on the ground.
We set the scene in Colossae: a church likely planted through Epaphras, growing but pressured by Gnostic whispers of “secret knowledge” and the lure of legalism. Those old currents have modern twins—spiritual shortcuts and algorithmic certainties that promise answers without wisdom. Against that, Paul centers us on Jesus: supreme over all, sufficient for us, and the true head of the church. From there, we explore calling beyond church walls. Whether you’re a teacher, engineer, parent, or retiree, your daily work can be received as God’s assignment to serve. Scripture threads this theme—from Joseph and Moses to Esther and Jeremiah—reminding us our placement isn’t momentum or accident, but sovereign timing.
Grace runs through everything. We unpack five streams—common, special, justifying, sanctifying, and persevering—and how they reshape ordinary choices. We also get practical: praying with coworkers, interceding for churches we pass, and remembering persecuted believers by name even when we can’t pronounce them. Finally, we linger over Paul’s triad: faith grows as we look back at God’s works, hope grows as we look forward to Christ’s future, and love grows as we look around at what God is doing today. The simple question remains: where do you forget to look—and how might hope refuel your faith and love this week?
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Laughter after longing is more than a mood; it’s a marker of grace. We open Psalm 126 and watch a people who sowed in tears come home with shouts of joy, then ask what it looks like to live that pattern now: thank what God has done, savor His gifts without suspicion, and share the story so others can see the Giver clearly. From there we get practical—remembrance as obedience, not nostalgia—drawing on Joshua’s stones to shape simple habits that keep our hearts soft and our witness strong.
I walk through the year’s living “stones”: hearts ignited by Scripture, a wave of baptisms spanning quiet lifelong faith to fresh conversions, and a growing culture of post‑service prayer that carries both burdens and celebrations. Among us, ordinary devotion has multiplied—kids learning to pray, students leading younger peers in the Word, and a foster and adoption ministry that mobilized meals, cars, and hands‑on care without fanfare. It’s the Acts 2 way: teaching, fellowship, shared meals, and prayer producing surprising fruit over time.
Beyond our walls, generosity helped encourage pastors abroad, deliver eye care alongside the gospel to tens of thousands, and fuel church planting across the U.S. and around the world. Not to boast in output, but to celebrate that God weaves ordinary faithfulness into extraordinary reach. The final turn lands close to home: after naming how God met our desires, we ask how we might give Him one of His. Prayer, presence, service, witness—choose one and build with us on this playground under construction until Christ returns.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
A shoot rises from a dead stump, and a Spirit-filled King brings wisdom, power, and holiness to a weary people. We imagine a world where power is not exploited, truth is not twisted, and creation is not harmed.
• Isaiah 10’s felled forests and the end of proud power
• The stump of Jesse and life from unexpected places
• The Spirit resting on the King with wisdom, counsel, and might
• Leadership, effectiveness, and holiness united in Christ
• An unfoolable judge who lifts the meek and confronts the wicked
• Words that rebuild after lies, and the fall of manipulation
• Creation at peace and the earth filled with knowledge of the Lord
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
If pressure has been your constant companion—calendar stacked, budget tight, mind racing—this conversation in Isaiah 9 might feel like a hand on your shoulder. We zoom in on a world of deep darkness and real fear and discover that God answers not with a program, but with a person. A child is given. A Son is placed into the very gloom that wears us down, and He takes the weight we can’t carry.
We slow the pace to read Hebrew poetry the way it asks to be read, noticing how Isaiah “rhymes” ideas to show both our choices and our conditions: we walk in darkness and we dwell in it. Then the light comes on. We talk about what God’s light reveals—clear paths, dangerous traps, and our own cracks—and why that exposure is grace. From there, joy builds. Isaiah’s twin images of harvest and spoil become living metaphors for shared abundance and surprise provision, the kind of joy that grows when pressure drives us closer to God and each other.
At the center are the names that tell us how His rule feels in everyday life: Wonderful Counselor for the decisions that keep you up at night, Mighty God for battles you can’t win alone, Everlasting Father for the ache of absence or loss, and Prince of Peace for anxious hearts. We wrestle with the timing of His kingdom and land where Jesus does: it’s already among us. That truth changes posture. Instead of waiting for peace, we walk with the One who creates it and become light for others by refusing to hide our limp. The increase of His government and peace will not end, and the zeal of the Lord will see it through.
Lean in, lay down the backpack, and let Christ shoulder what He came to carry.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Fear has a way of sounding wise. It tells us to buy safety, to rush a fix, to make peace with shaky alliances because at least they feel stable. We open Isaiah 7 and meet Ahaz standing in that pressure—two enemies at the gate and a glittering empire promising protection at a price. Into that noise, God speaks a surprising order: be careful, be quiet, do not fear. Then He offers something even more startling—ask for a sign as high as heaven or as low as the grave.
We walk through the tension with Ahaz, the warning against fueling our own fires, and the curious presence of Isaiah’s son, Shear-Jashub, whose name means “a remnant shall return.” That remnant image reframes discipline and hope: sin divides, but God refuses to reduce His people to zero. The message sharpens around a single line—if you are not firm in faith, you will not be firm at all. From there, we explore why Ahaz declines God’s invitation, how polite unbelief hides behind pious words, and what it costs us when we avoid clarity because clarity might require change.
The turning point arrives in mercy. God gives the sign anyway: a virgin will conceive, and the child will be called Emmanuel—God with us. We connect the promise to Matthew’s eyewitness account of Jesus, a living portrait of divine nearness: walking neighborhoods, welcoming the overlooked, confronting darkness, and embodying peace in chaos. Along the way, we offer practical handles for anxious seasons—choose your inputs carefully, stop stoking panic, and ask God for the faith you cannot manufacture. Whether your struggle is money, relationships, decisions, or grief, Emmanuel is the presence you can’t buy and the security you can’t engineer.
Listen for a grounded path from fear to faith, from hurry to quiet strength, and from self-reliance to the God who keeps His promises and gives second chances.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if sharing your faith felt less like a pitch and more like a real conversation? We open with a candid look at why evangelism makes many of us anxious, then introduce a simple framework—Good–God–Gospel—that helps you move from desire to discipline without sounding scripted. It’s a posture of listening first, spotting God’s character in everyday life, and naturally pointing to Jesus.
From there, the service blooms into three baptism testimonies that carry the weight and wonder of grace. Liam speaks to the pressure of playing the “good kid,” hiding questions, and finally hearing that repentance and belief mean your past no longer defines you—Christ does. Bennett reminds us that quiet faith is not small faith, and that courage sometimes looks like going public when your story isn’t sensational. Silas shares a raw journey through adoption, confusion, double lives, and the hollow promise of control, before discovering rest in Jesus and learning to choose Him daily. Their voices together show how ordinary honesty becomes extraordinary witness.
Scripture anchors the moment. Isaiah 43 turns witness into a sacred identity, not a hobby. John 4’s woman at the well models the simplest testimony—come and see. Acts 1:8 assures us that the Spirit supplies power when our words feel weak. Along the way, a funeral story surprises us with hope and reminds us that a single faithful declaration can ripple through a room. We close with practical next steps: use encouragement cards to ground baptisms in prayer, practice Good–God–Gospel in everyday conversations, and treat your life like sworn testimony—truthful about the mess, clear about the mercy.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We trace how wealth can hide our need for God, why a single encounter with Jesus rarely brings clear sight, and how desire, discipline, and devotion reshape the way we give. Scripture reframes tithing as a starting point and elevates generosity that pursues justice, mercy, and mission.
• rich young ruler and the shock of wealth
• two-touch healing as a metaphor for spiritual sight
• desire, discipline, devotion as a growth path
• Israel’s three tithes and firstfruits trust
• why tithing is training wheels, not the goal
• creating margin and resisting autopilot giving
• six traits of generous living: gratitude, mission, intentionality, charity, unity, holiness
• practical next steps toward joyful, planned generosity
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Some choices shape a morning; others shape a life. Joshua’s last words cut through noise and nostalgia with a simple, unsettling challenge: choose this day whom you will serve. We walk through his final charge and discover why his focus isn’t on his victories or titles but on a relentless catalog of God’s action—I took, I led, I gave, I sent, I delivered. That rhythm reframes success and faithfulness, showing us that the strongest lives are built by clinging to the Giver, not curating a résumé.
We explore what real clinging looks like, drawing from the Psalms to see how singing, midnight meditation, and honest prayer train the heart to hold fast. The contrast is stark: hold the living vine and bear fruit, or hold cultural leftovers and end up with snares, whips, and thorns. Joshua’s whiplash is intentional—celebrating rest in houses not built, then warning against the slow slide into idolatry. The pivot turns on a personal, persistent choice made in ordinary places: the school pickup line, the driveway after work, the sidelines, and the church foyer. Serving the Lord there means small, steady decisions that align our loves.
We also look at leadership that lasts beyond the leader. Israel served the Lord through Joshua’s lifetime and under elders who remembered the Lord’s works because their anchor was not charisma; it was a chain of remembered grace. And we connect the dots to Jesus, the greater Joshua, who took the whip and the thorns to secure a deeper rest than anyone could earn. If the waves feel high, this conversation invites you to trade fragile habits for a stronger hold on Christ and to choose—today and tomorrow—who you will serve.
If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs courage for a hard choice, and leave a review to help others find it. What will your household choose today?
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if the most “boring” parts of Joshua are actually the brightest windows into God’s heart? We walk through the land allotments and find more than borders and cities; we find a faithful God who keeps every promise and then invites us into something larger than maps can hold. The text says Israel received rest, yet Hebrews insists a greater rest still waits. That tension becomes the key: the quiet after battle foreshadows a Sabbath that begins with trust and culminates in the presence of Christ, where striving ends because His work is finished.
We also reframe inheritance. Israel does not grab prizes; they receive a Father’s gift—houses they did not build, vineyards they did not plant. Leviticus calls the land the Lord’s, so the right word isn’t conquest, it’s inheritance. From Abraham’s vantage point, the hope was always bigger: a city with foundations, designed and built by God. Joshua’s geography, then, becomes a signpost to an imperishable kingdom kept for us, a future far more secure than any border stone and far more satisfying than a harvest we grew ourselves.
Grace, surprisingly, is already alive in Joshua through the cities of refuge. There, guilt is admitted and protection is found under the high priest until his death settles the debt. The pattern prefigures Jesus, our High Priest, whose cross turns future sin into forgiven past. Along the way, we confront two modern hazards success brings: complacency that delays obedience and assumptions that fracture unity. Joshua presses us to step into what God has given, to labor in love while time remains, and to guard fellowship with clear words and quick reconciliation.
Come hear how thirty-one fallen kings, a nation at rest, and a map full of city names reveal the gospel’s shape: work now, rest forever; receive what you could never earn; run to the refuge that never closes. If this encouraged you, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review to help others find it.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
A ragged caravan, cracked wineskins, and a story that won’t let go: Joshua 9 shows what happens when clever deception meets unprayed decisions. We walk through the Gibeonite ruse, the leaders’ oath, and the shocking part—God holds Israel to a promise they never should have made. From there we map a crucial framework most of us feel but rarely name: the difference between a promise, a contract, and a covenant. One rests on honesty, one on justice, and one on relationship. To anchor it, we revisit God’s covenant with Abraham—God alone walking between the pieces—and see how that grace explains both the cross and our call to be people whose yes means yes.
The conversation turns practical fast. Israel discovers the lie within three days but refuses revenge because they swore before the Lord. Centuries later, a famine exposes Saul’s breach of that same covenant, proving that words echo across generations. We explore how this tension lands in modern life: marriage vows as a Spirit-sealed covenant, church membership as a pledge of spiritual family, and everyday commitments that shape character. Integrity is costly, but it can be worship—a way to honor God when keeping your word hurts more than breaking it. We offer concrete counsel on praying before you sign, inviting wise voices into big decisions, and guarding your speech so your future isn’t mortgaged by hasty promises.
If you’re craving a deeper, sturdier view of commitment—rooted in Scripture, honest about pain, and rich with hope—this one will steady your steps. Listen, reflect, and share with someone who needs courage to keep a hard promise today. If this helped you, follow the show, leave a review, and tell a friend what stood out most.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We trace Joshua 10 from five kings attacking Gibeon to God’s hail and a halted sun, then pivot to why Scripture says the day was unique: God listened to a man. We rethink prayer habits—short, corporate, faith-filled—and ask God to involve us in the answer.
• five kings unite against gibeon
• overnight march and panic in the enemy
• hailstones fall and tip the battle
• sun stands still to complete the victory
• kings trapped, feet on their necks
• gospel thread from joshua to jesus
• prayer as the hinge between god’s work and ours
• corporate prayer as the biblical norm
• faith over fluency, short prayers welcomed
• gratitude as a regular practice in prayer
• asking to be part of the answer, not just the outcome
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We trace Joshua’s return to Ai and the surprising grace of second chances, where God repeats old promises, calls us back to hard places, and turns past failure into future wisdom. Pride falls, generosity reorders the heart, and confession opens the door to mercy.
• second chances rooted in God’s unchanging promise
• returning to the place of loss with humility
• the “only” that reveals seek first then receive
• generosity as a disposition not an amount
• how God leverages failure for future success
• the ambush at Ai as redeemed strategy
• confessing and forsaking instead of hiding
• practical steps to revisit but not live in the past
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
A single question threads through ancient battlefields and modern routines: who are we choosing today? We walk through Joshua 5–8 to trace a pattern that feels uncannily current—kneel before the Lord, experience the joy of obedience, face the wreckage of hidden sin, and return to renewal. Along the way, we hear Jesus’s clear, present-tense call from Luke 9: deny yourself, take up your cross daily, and follow. The contrasts are vivid: Joshua meets the commander of the Lord’s army and discovers that the point isn’t “Whose side is God on?” but “Are we aligned with Him?” Jericho’s walls fall through trust, not tactics. Achan’s secrecy shows how private choices fracture a public community. And on Mount Ebal, the whole nation—women, children, and sojourners—gathers to remember and recommit under God’s Word.
We connect these scenes to everyday discipleship. True assurance doesn’t rest on a dusty memory of a card or aisle; it shows up in today’s footsteps. Time, difficulty, and change test roots. When the wind rises, do we release the aroma of Christ? We lean into a practical, grace-filled framework for examining direction over perfection—habits in Scripture, prayer, community care, and humble celebration of others. The good news holds the center: Jesus is the better Joshua who stepped beneath the stones we deserve, so we can stand on rubble by grace. Repentance is not meant to end in despair but to lead to remembrance, reaffirmation, and recommitment—at the table and in our rhythms.
If you’re hungry for a faith that’s honest about failure and stubborn about hope, this conversation is for you. Join us as we choose today—at home, in conflict, in fatigue—to say yes to Jesus again.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Joshua 5 demonstrates God's perfect timing as Israel pauses for a week in enemy territory after crossing the Jordan River, showing that weakness doesn't necessitate timidity and that God's people can find peace even in opposition.
• Israel enters the Promised Land and immediately sets up camp at Gilgal while surrounded by enemies
• Joshua circumcises all the men, making them temporarily vulnerable but recommitting them to God's covenant
• The celebration of Passover reminds the people of God's promises and faithfulness
• God stops the manna after 40 years, teaching that His provision may change while His faithfulness never does
• Joshua encounters the commander of God's army who teaches him that God doesn't take sides—He takes over
• When facing challenges, our strength isn't in our strategies but in our worship and surrender
The primary question isn't "Is God on our side?" but rather "Are we on His side?" Take off your shoes and worship Him—He doesn't need your sword or shield, but He will take your worship.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The story of Achan in Joshua 7 reveals how one person's hidden sin affected an entire community and teaches us that while we can commit sin, we can never contain its consequences.
• One person's disobedience caused defeat for Israel at Ai and the death of 36 soldiers
• The Valley of Achor (meaning "trouble") shows the severity of sin's consequences
• We often misdiagnose difficulties in our lives instead of examining hidden sin
• Joshua's response of tearing his clothes and falling to the ground in repentance
• God's surprising command to "get up" and address the real problem
• The process of revealing Achan's sin among two million people demonstrates God's sovereignty
• Nothing hidden will remain hidden - God already knows the sin no one else sees
• When we sin, other people must clean up our messes and face consequences
• The Valley of Trouble (Achor) later becomes a "gateway of hope" through God's grace
• We cannot fully comprehend our sin's severity or the sufficiency of God's grace
Run to repentance. Don't walk to find it. For your own sake as well as for the sake of the people around you.
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We explore the powerful story of Jericho's fall in Joshua 6, uncovering surprising insights about faith, silence, and God's redemptive work that often get overlooked in this familiar biblical narrative.
• Understanding Jericho's true scale – a city of only 6-7 acres that would take about 15 minutes to walk around
• God's approach to victory involves both His sovereignty (100%) and our obedience (100%)
• The unusual "parade" formation before battle demonstrates worshipping before seeing results
• Silence as the unsung hero of the story – Joshua commands complete silence for seven days
• The psychological warfare of trumpets blowing each morning like an alarm that couldn't be silenced
• Rahab's story as a model of God's mercy – one section of wall left standing amid total destruction
• The walls we build to protect ourselves often become the prisons that hold us captive
• God always preserves a pathway to redemption for those who trust Him
Don't leave with walls built around you. Let them fall today, even now. Go and talk to the Lord before we stand and worship one who deserves so much more than our silence, even though we'll give him both.
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Asaph's raw journey through spiritual doubt and rediscovered faith in Psalm 77 reveals how we can navigate times when God feels distant yet remains faithful.
• Moving from crying out to God in deep distress to finding comfort in remembering His character
• Running to God even when our cries are ugly and our pain feels overwhelming
• Learning that our theology should shape how we suffer rather than letting suffering shape our theology
• Recognizing that our seemingly impossible situations become the stage for God's power to be displayed
• Understanding that remembering God's past faithfulness gives us courage to face present struggles
• Finding hope in Christ's work on the cross—the ultimate display of God's faithfulness
• Standing on unshakable hope even during long, sleepless nights and heavy burdens
"I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work and meditate on your mighty deeds. Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God?" (Psalm 77:11-13)
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What's the most important thing you've ever forgotten? Maybe it was an anniversary, a doctor's appointment, or your car keys. We are people prone to forget, which is why God established memorials throughout Scripture to help His people remember His mighty works.
In Joshua 4, we find the Israelites standing at a pivotal moment in their history. After wandering in the wilderness for forty years, they've finally crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land—on dry ground, no less. God commands Joshua to take twelve stones from the middle of the riverbed and set them up as a memorial at Gilgal. These stones weren't just souvenirs; they were conversation starters for future generations who would ask, "What do these stones mean?"
The answer reveals the dual purpose of this memorial: "that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the LORD is mighty, and that you may fear the LORD your God forever." The stones pointed outward as a testimony to surrounding nations and inward as a reminder to God's people. They connected the miracle at the Jordan with God's earlier deliverance at the Red Sea, creating a thread of divine faithfulness running through Israel's history.
As we examine this passage alongside Hebrews 3-4, we discover that the Jordan crossing itself points forward to something greater. Moses led enslaved people out of Egypt but couldn't bring them into God's rest because of their unbelief. Joshua succeeded in bringing them into Canaan, but even that wasn't the ultimate rest God had in mind. Both were foreshadowing Jesus, who offers true rest—freedom from slavery to sin, from aimless wandering, from exhausting striving, and ultimately from death itself.
True belief isn't just intellectual assent or cultural Christianity. It means abandoning all hope in our ability to earn what God has promised and casting ourselves fully upon Him. This kind of belief leads to action, prioritizes obedience over strategy, and sustains perseverance through difficulty. When life feels heavy, our determination alone isn't enough, but fixing our eyes on what God is doing gives us strength to continue.
What memorials have you established in your life to remember God's faithfulness? Perhaps it's Sunday worship, personal testimonies, or meaningful objects that remind you of spiritual milestones. These safeguards help us resist the "death by a thousand nudges" that can erode our faith when we're not looking. Our remembrance stokes the fires of our belief, which leads us into the rest God promises through Jesus, our great high priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses and invites us to approach His throne with confidence.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What rivers of impossibility are you facing right now? The story of Joshua leading Israel across the Jordan offers a surprising message of hope for anyone feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges.
This powerful exploration of Joshua 3 reveals that beneath the dramatic miracle of waters parting lies something even more remarkable - the unseen currents of God's faithfulness flowing through history. Like children playing with beach toys, we often focus on what's happening above the surface while missing the stronger forces moving underneath.
God deliberately chose flood season - the worst possible time - for Israel to cross the Jordan. Why? Because our moments of greatest difficulty often become the stage for God's most dramatic displays of power. When waters rise around you, it might not be evidence of God's absence but the setup for His most magnificent work.
The beauty of this story lies in how little faith was required. The priests carrying the ark weren't asked to wade into deep waters on blind faith - they simply needed to put their toes at the water's edge. That small act of obedience triggered God's supernatural response, stopping the river's flow for fifteen miles upstream and creating not just a narrow path but a wide highway of dry ground.
This pattern reaches its fulfillment 1,400 years later when Jesus would be baptized in this same stretch of the Jordan River. The God who parted waters for His people would ultimately send His Son to pass through the waters of judgment, creating a path for us all.
Whatever flood-stage challenge you're facing, God isn't asking for heroic faith - just enough trust to put your toe in the water. Take that small step today and discover the solid ground that comes from following the One who goes before you.
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What if your greatest shame became your greatest testimony? The story of Rahab challenges everything we think we know about who belongs in God's family.
Joshua 2 takes us to an unexpected location—the house of a prostitute in Jericho—where two Israelite spies find refuge as they scout the Promised Land. But this isn't just any woman; Rahab is a foreigner who demonstrates extraordinary faith despite her background. With soldiers searching the city for these men, she hides them and makes a stunning declaration: "I know that the Lord has given you the land...for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath."
The beauty of this narrative lies in its contrasts. Rahab likely learned about God through conversations overheard from clients—her very brokenness positioned her to hear about God's mighty works. When she lets the spies down from her window with a scarlet cord, she becomes the means of salvation not just for herself but for her entire family. This cord, reminiscent of the Passover blood, marks her home as a place where anyone who enters will be saved from coming judgment.
Throughout Scripture, Rahab continues to be called "the prostitute" even while being honored in the hall of faith (Hebrews 11). Why? Because "in Christ, your past must be remembered as a testimony, but it will never define your future identity." Her story culminates beautifully in Matthew's genealogy of Jesus, where she appears simply as "Rahab"—the mother of Boaz, a man of exceptional character, and an ancestor of Christ himself.
This powerful message reminds us that faith often exists in simple acts of sacrificial kindness, that no one is beyond redemption, and that God delights in writing incredible stories through unlikely people. Where might you be hiding your past and wounds instead of putting God's incredible grace on display? Your story matters, and it might just be the testimony someone else needs to hear.
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The journey from the wilderness to the Promised Land represents one of Scripture's most pivotal transitions—and in this illuminating exploration of Joshua 1:1-9, we discover how God orchestrates leadership transitions that advance His unchanging mission.
When Moses dies, God doesn't pause to mourn or reassess. Instead, He immediately commands Joshua: "Moses my servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go." This remarkable moment teaches us that while leaders may change, God's purposes never falter. Four times in this passage, God commands Joshua to "be strong and courageous"—a refrain that echoes through the ages to every believer facing uncertainty.
The backstory makes this moment even more profound. Forty years earlier, twelve spies explored Canaan, but only Joshua and Caleb trusted God's promise despite seeing formidable obstacles. That failure of national faith resulted in an entire generation missing their inheritance. Now, Joshua leads a younger generation (everyone under 20 except himself and Caleb) into their destiny.
What does follow-worthy leadership look like? Through Joshua's example, we discover four essential qualities: immediate obedience without hesitation, complete dependence on God while taking action, willingness to invite necessary sacrifice, and openness to meaningful encouragement. These same qualities appeared perfectly in Jesus, whose name in Greek is the equivalent of "Joshua" in Hebrew—a connection that reveals God's consistent character across Scripture.
Most compelling is Joshua's challenge to the tribes that had already received their inheritance east of the Jordan. Though they had settled into comfort, he called them to leave everything behind temporarily to help their brothers secure their inheritance. This powerful picture reminds us that receiving God's blessings isn't our final goal—helping others experience His promises is our ongoing mission.
As we navigate our own wilderness-to-promise transitions, remember that every Christian is called to lead somewhere. Your next step of courage might be someone else's pathway to freedom. Where is God calling you to be strong and courageous today?
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The paradox at the heart of Christian life can feel impossible to resolve: how can we strive diligently for holiness while simultaneously experiencing deep peace? In this final sermon on 2 Peter, we explore the apostle's parting wisdom to believers awaiting Christ's return and a world "in which righteousness dwells."
Peter challenges us with seemingly contradictory instructions: "Be diligent to be found by Him without spot or blemish and at peace." This tension between extreme effort and complete rest captures the unique essence of Christian spirituality. While acknowledging that some spiritual truths are "hard to understand," Peter warns against both abandoning Scripture as too difficult and manipulating it to fit our preconceptions.
The solution emerges in Peter's final charge: "Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ." Grace isn't simply a one-time gift but a dynamic reality we continuously grow into. As we mature spiritually, we discover how to pursue holiness while resting in Christ's finished work.
This message offers three practical applications: First, don't waste your waiting time – invest it wisely in eternal purposes. Second, embrace the paradox that while perfection remains beyond reach in this life, genuine transformation is guaranteed for true believers. Finally, find peace by becoming a better receiver of God's grace rather than striving to achieve it through your own efforts.
Unlike Buddha's reported final words—"strive without ceasing"—Christ's last declaration was "it is finished." Our spiritual journey isn't about endless effort but about learning to live from the victory already won for us. What would change if you truly believed God is keeping you while enabling you to participate in your own spiritual growth? How might this understanding transform your daily walk with Christ?
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Have you ever made Kool-Aid and noticed how the sugary goodness settles to the bottom if left unstirred? That's exactly what happens to our spiritual lives when we forget the urgency of Christ's return. In this powerful message from 2 Peter 3:8-13, we explore how easily Christians can become "settled" rather than "stirred" in their faith.
Peter writes specifically to believers—not unbelievers—warning about scoffers who mock the promise of Christ's return by saying "all things continue as they were from the beginning." These "doubt evangelists" deliberately overlook God's past judgment through the flood and His promised future judgment through fire. When we adopt their thinking, even subtly, our spiritual fervor settles to the bottom of our lives.
What feels like God's slowness is actually His extraordinary patience. With stunning imagery, God is depicted as still "inhaling" before the exhale of judgment, giving time for repentance. This patience isn't a sign of His inability or reluctance but of His incredible grace toward us. The day of the Lord will come "like a thief"—unexpectedly and without warning—with the heavens passing away with a roar and everything exposed.
We're witnessing unprecedented spiritual movements globally: massive revivals across Africa, Asia, and South America; Bible translations reaching completion in nearly all known languages; and even young men returning to churches in America seeking godly direction. These aren't ordinary times—they're extraordinary moments calling for extraordinary faith.
When asked how they feel about Christ's return, some believers responded with "fear" and "judgment" while others said "excitement" and "hope." This stark contrast reveals much about whether our faith is settled or stirred. Rather than merely waiting passively, Peter calls us to both "wait for and hasten" Christ's coming through lives of holiness and active participation in God's mission.
What would change if you truly believed Jesus might return today? Would you live differently? Would your priorities shift? Don't let the spiritual nutrients of God's truth settle unused at the bottom of your life. Take up Peter's challenge to be stirred in your faith, living with joyful anticipation of the day when righteousness will dwell in new heavens and a new earth.
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What happens when knowledge becomes more important than faith? In this penetrating exploration of 2 Peter 2, we confront the uncomfortable reality of false teaching and its destructive influence in our lives.
The sermon begins with a fishing story that captures our relationship with Scripture. Sometimes we throw out a perfect cast net that catches nothing, while a tangled mess somehow brings in fish. Similarly, our approach to God's word shouldn't depend on our expertise but on our willingness to swim under whatever net the Holy Spirit casts.
At its heart, this message examines how false teachers operate—secretly introducing destructive ideas that appeal to our desires for comfort, success, and sensuality. They promise freedom while being enslaved themselves. The metaphor is striking: false teachers hand you a spoon to dig out of your prison while Christ stands nearby holding the key. Most dangerously, their deception doesn't explode like a short-fused firework; it slowly leads you down a path until you're far from truth.
What makes this message uniquely powerful is its challenge to the knowledge-centered Christianity prevalent in Bible Belt culture. Through biblical examples like Noah (who built a boat before ever seeing rain) and Lot (who made terrible decisions yet remained righteous through faith), we see that God values faith over expertise. Noah is called righteous not because he knew everything but because when he had nothing to go on except God's word, he said, "That's enough for me."
The sermon concludes with a profound insight: God isn't terribly concerned that we get everything right; He's concerned that we never stop running to be made right. This distinction changes everything about how we approach our spiritual lives. Are the voices speaking into your life drawing you closer to Jesus or further away? Are you pursuing knowledge as your salvation, or are you pursuing Christ with the knowledge you have?
If you've ever felt that intellectual understanding of Scripture should be enough, or if you're wondering how to discern true teaching from false, this message offers both challenge and hope. Listen now and discover why swimming under God's net is always better than trying to throw your own.
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At the end of life, what truly matters? In this profound exploration of 2 Peter 1:16-21, we discover that Peter—facing his own mortality—chose not to impart new knowledge but to remind believers of timeless truths they already knew.
Against our culture's obsession with novelty and innovation, Peter presents a radical alternative: the gospel never grows old, no matter how familiar it becomes. He recounts his experience on the Mount of Transfiguration, where he witnessed Christ's glory firsthand and heard the voice of God proclaim, "This is my beloved Son." Yet remarkably, Peter suggests that Scripture provides even greater certainty than this supernatural encounter.
The sermon unpacks three foundations for unwavering faith: standing on what the apostles' eyes saw, what their lives proved through decades of persecution, and ultimately, the same thing they stood on—God's unchanging Word. As Charles Colson observed about the apostles' testimony: "Twelve of the world's most powerful men couldn't keep a lie going for three weeks during Watergate, yet twelve apostles maintained their testimony for forty years despite torture and death."
For those struggling with spiritual doubts or difficulties, this message offers profound comfort. We don't necessarily need new truths to navigate life's challenges—we need to recall the old ones that have sustained generations of believers. Like a lamp shining in darkness, God's Word provides just enough light for our next step.
The message concludes with Winston Churchill's remarkable funeral planning. After "Taps" signaled day's end, a second bugler unexpectedly played "Reveille"—time to wake up. While mourners witnessed his life's sunset, Churchill wanted to remind them he was experiencing the dawn of something new. What stories of God's faithfulness will you share before your own sunset comes?
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We explore the revolutionary concept that every Christian stands on equal footing with the apostles themselves, not through our own merit, but through the righteousness of Christ.
• God has granted believers "all things that pertain to life and godliness" through knowing Christ
• Many Christians experience a "false start" by trying to earn God's approval rather than beginning with faith
• Faith must come first, followed by supplements like virtue, knowledge, self-control and love
• Our relationship with Christ isn't about striving but about taking what He freely gives
• The Christian life includes "becoming partakers of the divine nature" - uniquely receiving rather than just giving
• When we build properly on the foundation of faith, God promises we "will never fall"
• God desires not just to admit us to heaven, but to "richly provide" our entrance into His kingdom
"His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us to His own glory and excellence." - 2 Peter 1:3
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Ever felt like your spiritual growth has hit a plateau? In this exploration of 2 Peter, we discover the apostle's urgent final message written from prison as he faces execution under Nero's persecution. Peter, the disciple who once denied Jesus but ultimately gave his life for the gospel, reminds us that true spiritual growth doesn't require new revelations or secret knowledge—it demands remembering and applying the transformative truths we already possess.
The letter opens with an astounding declaration: everyday believers share "equal standing" with the apostles themselves. This radical equality exists not because of our spiritual achievements but through "the righteousness of our God and Savior." Peter then outlines qualities that should mark a growing believer's life: virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. These characteristics aren't optional add-ons but evidence of genuine faith.
Most striking is Peter's fierce warning against false teachers who "secretly bring in destructive heresies." These deceptions rarely announce themselves as obvious lies—they begin with subtle twists of scripture that lead to devastating spiritual consequences. As one pastor noted during our discussion, "Your ability to justify your behavior is unmatched by anything, except for the grace of God." This sobering reality calls us to vigilance in a media-saturated age where algorithms learn our weaknesses faster than we recognize them.
The letter culminates with Peter addressing skeptics who mock Christ's return. His response—"with the Lord one day is as a thousand years"—reframes our impatience and reminds us that God's apparent delays always serve his redemptive purposes. This perspective transforms how we approach each day, living with urgency but not anxiety, actively waiting for Christ's return while fully engaging with those around us.
What would change if you knew Jesus was returning in an hour? How might your priorities shift? Join us as we unpack Peter's timeless challenge to grow in grace and knowledge while standing firm against false teaching. Whether you're new to faith or have walked with Christ for decades, 2 Peter offers both encouragement and warning for your spiritual journey.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Frustration, bitterness, resentment, anger—emotions we rarely associate with our spiritual lives, yet ones that inevitably surface when our expectations collide with reality. What do we do when God feels distant or his timing seems unbearably slow?
This episode explores the forgotten art of biblical lament—a practice modeled throughout Scripture that offers us a way forward when we're struggling with difficult emotions toward God. Drawing from Jonah's selfish complaint and David's honest lament in Psalm 13, we discover a crucial distinction that changes everything: while both men brought their complaints to God, only one ended with hope and praise.
The biblical pattern of lament includes four essential elements: directly addressing God, honestly expressing our complaints, petitioning for divine intervention, and concluding with an expression of trust. This final component distinguishes true lament from mere complaint, offering us a pathway through our darkest moments.
"The same storms that terrify the sheep also water the grass." This powerful image captures the heart of biblical perspective—our challenges often contain hidden provisions we can only see when we shift our gaze from inward turmoil to upward trust and outward service. When we find ourselves bitter or resentful, the solution isn't simply to pray differently but to see differently.
The sermon reveals how figures throughout Scripture—Job in his suffering, Asaph in his envy of the wicked, Habakkuk in his impatience, and Naomi in her bitterness—all eventually discovered that their painful chapters weren't the end of their stories. Like a father guiding his visually impaired daughter, God walks beside us through our limited understanding, teaching us to trust even when we cannot see.
Whether you're currently wrestling with disappointment or seeking to prepare for inevitable storms ahead, this message offers biblical wisdom for bringing your whole self—including your most difficult emotions—before a God who can handle your honesty and wants to lead you toward hope.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The journey from complete brokenness to divine purpose unfolds powerfully in this moving episode opening with Darin Sharpe's raw testimony of redemption. His story begins in rural Georgia, tracks through a devastating divorce that led him to homelessness in New York City's Central Park, and continues through the tragedy of 9/11, imprisonment, and a 12-year battle with meth addiction. The turning point arrives when Darin answers the call to care for his dying parents, gradually softening his heart toward the God he'd been angry with for decades.
Surrender comes in October 2020 when, kneeling on an old mattress in his mother's garage, Darin finally gives himself completely to God. What follows is both simple and profound – a divine instruction to "walk" transforms his life, freeing him from addiction and bringing unexpected blessings including marriage and meaningful work. His testimony illuminates how God uses our deepest pain to bring us to our knees, only to lift us toward purpose.
Pastor Will then takes us through the closing chapters of Song of Solomon, unpacking the profound metaphor of divine jealousy. We discover that God's jealousy for His people isn't possessive but protective – a holy desire for exclusive relationship that cannot be quenched by "many waters" or purchased with wealth. The sermon draws a vital distinction between sinful envy (coveting what isn't yours) and righteous jealousy (protecting what rightfully belongs to you).
The message culminates with a powerful image of Christ standing at the door of our hearts, knocking. Who sits at the table of your soul? Have you invited Jesus in to dine with you alone, or are other things occupying that sacred space? Let the world have its thousand loves – we're called to choose just one.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What does it mean to truly possess wisdom in a world that often confuses it with mere knowledge? Through an engaging exploration of three biblical figures—Adam, Solomon, and Jesus—we discover a profound progression in the pursuit of wisdom that transforms not just our thinking, but our very relationships.
Adam stands as a sobering warning. In the perfection of Eden, he had everything yet reached for the one thing God withheld, believing it would make him wise. His story reveals the devastating consequences of seeking wisdom apart from God: broken relationships, fear, and spiritual death. As Thomas aptly puts it, "Adam is a man trying to build a structure with no help, no wisdom, no guidance," and the results were catastrophic.
Solomon offers a refreshing contrast. When given the opportunity to ask for anything, he requested wisdom not for personal gain but to govern God's people well. His prayer for "an understanding mind to discern between good and evil" pleased God so much that he received not just wisdom but riches and honor as well. Solomon's approach demonstrates that wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord—not a cowering terror but a reverent awe that drives us toward obedience rather than away from God's presence.
The culmination comes in Jesus Christ, who doesn't merely seek or teach wisdom but embodies it perfectly. What Adam lost and Solomon sought, Christ restores completely. Through his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus offers us not just knowledge but transformative wisdom that changes us from the inside out.
The practical application comes through a powerful cycle of growth: filling our minds with knowledge, walking accordingly in obedience, bearing fruit that benefits others, which in turn deepens our knowledge of God. This cycle, empowered by prayer and God's grace, gradually transforms our thinking and consequently our relationships.
Whether you're building relationships, making critical decisions, or simply trying to navigate daily challenges, this message offers a compelling vision for how biblical wisdom—rooted in the fear of the Lord and fulfilled in Christ—can transform every aspect of your life. Join us as we discover that right thinking truly does lead to right relationships.
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What happens when a "perfect" relationship hits its first major conflict? In this powerful examination of Song of Solomon chapter 5, we explore the moment when everything goes wrong between two people who deeply love each other.
The passage takes us right to the heart of relationship breakdown – he arrives home late, she's prepared for an intimate evening but chooses resentment over reconciliation, and what could have been resolved with a few steps to the door becomes a painful journey through the city streets seeking restoration. It's a story that feels uncomfortably familiar to anyone who has ever chosen pride over forgiveness.
Through this ancient text, we uncover six relationship problems that still plague us today: prioritizing work over presence, questioning if someone deserves our kindness, the painful irony of longing for space until we get it, pursuing reconnection when someone is unavailable, experiencing unexpected trauma, and watching private struggles become public pain. But more importantly, we discover God's four-step blueprint for healing broken relationships: Repent, Reconcile, Reconnect, and Renew.
What makes this message so powerful isn't just its practical wisdom for marriage and friendships, but how it reveals God's heart for reconciliation. When we understand that our own relationship with God follows this same pattern – where He pursues us despite our closed doors and cold hearts – we gain a new perspective on forgiveness. We're reminded that Christ didn't just tell us to fix our relationships; He showed us how by becoming "a friend of sinners" who reconciles us to Himself.
Whether you're navigating marriage difficulties, friendship tensions, or family conflicts, this message offers both practical tools for fighting fair and the spiritual foundation for lasting reconciliation. Because ultimately, the goal isn't winning arguments but experiencing the righteousness of God in our relationships.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Passion isn't something to hide from or be embarrassed about—it's woven into the very fabric of our design by a God who celebrates intimacy. But what if everything our culture tells us about desire, sex, and fulfillment is backward?
When the young woman in Song of Solomon compares herself to a magnificent procession, wondering if she'll captivate her beloved's attention, she reveals a universal anxiety: Am I enough? Her beloved responds with a literary love letter, repeatedly affirming not just her general beauty but specific qualities that belong uniquely to her. The emphasis on "your" eyes, "your" lips, "your" beauty reveals something profound about God's design—true passion isn't found in endless options but in focused devotion.
Our cultural narrative insists that monogamy is the funeral procession of passion, that commitment chokes chemistry. Yet research consistently confirms what Scripture has always taught: those who wait for marriage and remain faithful report higher satisfaction emotionally, relationally, and sexually than those who don't. God isn't holding out on us—He's channeling our desire like a river between commitment's shores, making it deeper and more powerful.
Many Christians grew up with an incomplete model: withhold now to receive later. But Christ modeled something different—withhold temporarily, then give sacrificially, and finally receive abundantly. This pattern transforms marriages when both partners find their greatest joy in bringing pleasure to the other. The result isn't just better relationships, but a testimony that makes the watching world wonder what we've discovered.
Whether you need grace for past failures, renewed passion in your marriage, or simply a theology that embraces celebration, God's Word offers a better way. Join us as we explore how God's design for intimacy isn't prudish but potent—and how it points us to the One who poured out His love completely for us.
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Why are relationships so complicated? Why do our deepest desires sometimes feel impossible to satisfy? The answer might surprise you: God designed you this way on purpose.
In this profound exploration of Song of Solomon 3:1-5, we dive into what appears to be a young woman's midnight dream of searching city streets for her beloved. But beneath this passionate pursuit lies a universal truth about human longing that resonates across centuries.
God isn't surprised by your desires—He created them. Looking back to Genesis, we discover that longing predates sin. When God declared "it is not good for man to be alone," He first created the desire in Adam, then deliberately extended that longing by having him name all animals before bringing him Eve. Adam's response? "At last!"—the cry of a longing fulfilled.
Whether you're seeking love, purpose, belonging, or security, these desires reflect Eden's echo in your soul. The problem isn't the longing itself but where we look for satisfaction. We pursue relationships, career success, social approval, or material comfort, yet remain unsatisfied because these things were never designed to fill the God-shaped void within us.
Even Jesus experiences longing. He eagerly desired to share the Passover with his disciples and prays for believers to join him in eternity. In Revelation, he stands at the door of our hearts, knocking—not just to accomplish salvation but because he longs for relationship with us.
What will you do with your longings? Rather than resenting them, mature believers thank God for desires that continually point us back to the only One who truly satisfies. Your longings aren't mistakes—they're invitations to discover that Christ alone offers what your heart most deeply desires.
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The Song of Solomon might seem like an unlikely text for Mother's Day, yet it reveals profound truths about God's perfect timing that speak to our deepest relationships and longings. Through ancient wedding customs, we discover a beautiful picture of Christ's pursuit of His people.
When the bridegroom comes "leaping over mountains" to claim his bride, we glimpse the eagerness of a lover who has prepared everything for their future together. In biblical times, betrothal was followed by a waiting period while the groom prepared rooms in his father's house - a powerful parallel to Jesus' promise: "In my Father's house are many rooms... I go to prepare a place for you."
The seasonal imagery throughout this passage reminds us that God orchestrates our lives through different chapters - sometimes winter's waiting, sometimes spring's renewal. For those experiencing Mother's Day with complicated emotions - whether celebrating motherhood or carrying the weight of unfulfilled longings - the message rings clear: "God's timing is never late and always loving." Your times are truly in His hands.
We explore four relationship seasons: summer drought (when love feels dry and nourishment lacking), fall harvest (enjoying blessings but sensing coldness approaching), winter death (when relationships feel lifeless), and spring renewal (fresh growth and excitement). Each season requires different spiritual responses, yet all can be navigated with faith.
Perhaps most powerful is the bride's request to "catch the foxes... that spoil the vineyards" - a recognition that even in seasons of blessing, vigilant protection is needed. This metaphor speaks to our inability to fully guard what matters most through our own efforts, pointing us to Christ who offers to do what we cannot.
The passage culminates in beautiful covenant language: "My beloved is mine and I am his." This mutual self-giving relationship represents God's ultimate desire for His people, available only when we "arise and come away" from self-sufficiency into His perfect love. Where are you in your season today? Will you trust the One who is bringing you safely home?
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What does God really think about beauty? Far from the awkward silence many expect from the church on this topic, the Bible speaks candidly and powerfully about physical attraction, self-image, and how we view one another.
In this exploration of Song of Solomon, we discover a woman who feels insufficient despite receiving lavish praise from her beloved. "I am dark but lovely," she confesses – acknowledging both her beauty and what she perceives as imperfection. This duality mirrors our spiritual condition: simultaneously bearing God's image yet marked by brokenness. When she compares herself to common wildflowers, her beloved counters with stunning affirmation: "As a lily among brambles, so is my love among young women." He doesn't just see her beauty; he celebrates what makes her exceptional.
This ancient text reveals a profound truth for modern relationships: there's a significant difference between lying and choosing to see the best in someone. The couple engages in a beautiful exchange of affirmation that creates a sanctuary of love – where their native language becomes mutual encouragement, blessing and praise. Their garden rendezvous deliberately echoes Eden, reminding us of what love looked like before sin distorted it – when we could share ourselves without shame and build each other up rather than tear each other down.
Our beauty-obsessed culture could learn much from Solomon's perspective: physical beauty is a gift to enjoy and cultivate, but never a god to worship. Love may delight in the body, but it must be anchored in the soul. As we battle against aging (a fight where "time is undefeated"), remember that what truly matters is the growth of character, the wisdom that comes with years, and the beauty that outlasts physical appeal.
Join us in discovering how Scripture offers a refreshingly balanced approach that neither idolizes physical attractiveness nor dismisses its significance – showing us instead how to receive beauty as a gift, ground it in covenant love, and surrender it to the glory of God.
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When was the last time you heard a sermon series on the Song of Songs? For most Christians, this passionate, romantic book remains unexplored territory—too scandalous, too sensual, or simply too puzzling to tackle in church. But what if this ancient love poem contains exactly the wisdom our relationships desperately need?
Solomon, considered the wisest man who ever lived, wrote 1,005 songs during his lifetime. The Song of Songs represents his masterpiece—the greatest among them all. Despite being just eight chapters that take only ten minutes to read, this book delivers profound insights about God's design for human passion, intimacy, and commitment.
What makes this book particularly remarkable is its female-centered perspective. The woman speaks more than half the time (53%), with her beloved speaking a third, and the surrounding community offering commentary throughout. Through her eyes, we witness a love characterized by three essential elements: chemistry (the passion that draws two people together), character (the integrity that makes someone trustworthy), and community (the social fabric that supports healthy relationships).
The Song speaks directly to everyone. For singles who wonder if passionate love is worth waiting for, the female protagonist answers with an emphatic "yes!" For married couples who've lost their spark, it offers a vision of romance that remains vibrant through commitment. For parents navigating conversations about sexuality with their children, it provides a God-honoring framework that celebrates physical intimacy rather than sanitizing it.
Beyond human relationships, the Song points to something even more profound. If this is what human love at its best can be, how much greater must God's love be? The most stunning revelation isn't that we should love God passionately, but that God loves us with a passion that exceeds our comprehension—not because we're worthy of such devotion, but because of His grace.
Ready to rediscover this ancient wisdom? Join us as we explore love's sacred territory together—celebrating the beauty of romance while uncovering deeper truths about the One whose love transforms us all. What might happen if we allowed God's word to speak about passion with the same candor and beauty as the Song of Songs?
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The confusion of Easter morning might be the most relatable part of the resurrection story. Three different groups encountered the risen Christ, yet each initially failed to grasp what was happening. The faithful women found an empty tomb and were "perplexed." The disciples heard their report and dismissed it as "an idle tale." Two followers walked with Jesus himself for hours without recognizing him. Why would God allow such confusion?
Luke's account reveals a profound pattern: spiritual sight doesn't come through physical eyes but through understanding Scripture. The women didn't recognize Jesus until they "remembered his words." The Emmaus road travelers' hearts "burned within them" as Jesus explained the Scriptures. The disciples finally believed when Jesus "opened their minds to understand the Scriptures."
This Easter narrative offers incredible hope for skeptics and believers alike. God seems perfectly comfortable with our questions and perplexity, using them to create space for deeper faith. We don't need to figure everything out on our own. Scripture provides the framework through which confusion becomes clarity.
The greatest plot twist? The very people who were confused, doubtful, and slow to understand became witnesses commissioned to share this news with the world. Those who might have participated in crucifying Jesus became those who worshiped him. Those who failed to recognize him walking beside them became those who couldn't stop talking about him.
If you're searching, questioning, or feeling perplexed about faith, you're in good company. The first followers felt exactly the same way. Open God's Word and allow it to open your eyes to see Jesus standing right in front of you, inviting you into a story far bigger than you could write yourself.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Tucked within the Old Testament lies a prophetic masterpiece so extraordinary that theologians have dubbed it "the fifth gospel." Isaiah 53, written seven centuries before Christ's birth, presents a portrait of the coming Messiah with such precision that it reads like an eyewitness account of Calvary.
This Palm Sunday message unveils five surprising truths about the suffering servant that challenge our human understanding and illuminate the wonder of God's redemption plan. From the servant's assured victory despite his appalling appearance to the shocking reality that those he came to save would largely reject him, each truth builds a comprehensive picture of how God would reconcile sinful humanity to himself.
At the theological heart of Isaiah's prophecy stands the doctrine of substitutionary atonement—the servant bearing our griefs, carrying our sorrows, being pierced for our transgressions, and crushed for our iniquities. The language is unmistakable; our sin placed on him so that his righteousness might be credited to us. This divine exchange represents the answer to humanity's greatest dilemma: how can a holy God remain just while justifying sinners?
The servant's profound humility shines through his silent submission to undeserved suffering, creating a stark contrast with our natural impulse for self-preservation. Yet perhaps most astonishing is Isaiah's paradoxical declaration that through death, the servant would see offspring and prolong his days—a clear foreshadowing of resurrection and the spiritual children who would be born through his sacrifice.
For anyone struggling under the weight of guilt or shame, Isaiah 53 offers the liberating truth that Christ has paid the penalty for your sin. There is now no condemnation for those who trust in him. The highest court has declared you innocent. Will you accept this gift of grace today?
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
"Why do you seek the living among the dead?" This question from the angels at Jesus' empty tomb challenges everything we assume about death, life, and how forgiveness operates. When confronted with the resurrection, we must reconsider our understanding of reconciliation and forgiveness.
Our natural instinct when wronged is to establish boundaries and limits. Peter approached Jesus with this very mindset, asking, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?" He sought permission to draw a line in the sand. Jesus responded by transforming the question entirely, shifting from a limit to a lifestyle of forgiveness.
The story becomes deeply personal when we consider Peter's own failure. After boldly declaring his loyalty, Peter denied Jesus three times beside a charcoal fire. Yet after resurrection, Jesus intentionally prepared another charcoal fire on the shore, creating the perfect setting for reconciliation. Before Peter even swam the hundred yards to reach him, Jesus had already set the stage for healing.
This message outlines five practical ways to know if we've truly forgiven someone: Have we released their debt? Do we entrust justice to God rather than seeking vengeance? Do we wish them good rather than harm? Are we actively pursuing reconciliation? And most importantly, are we viewing them through the lens of what Christ has done for us rather than what they've done against us?
Forgiveness isn't primarily about feelings but choices. Like the women who couldn't properly honor Jesus' body before the Sabbath but discovered he was already risen, we often feel our efforts at forgiveness are inadequate. Yet Jesus works in the unseen while we wait. He prepares the shore, starts the fire, and waits for us to simply come to him.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
In the midst of his greatest suffering, Jesus offers us the most profound lessons about forgiveness. While inches away from the cross, after being mocked and beaten, Jesus shows more concern for others than for himself.
Through just three statements spoken from the cross, Jesus revolutionizes our understanding of forgiveness. His first words, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do," reveal that forgiveness is something Jesus offers freely, even to those actively causing him harm. This forces us to confront uncomfortable questions: Have we truly forgiven others, or have we merely stopped thinking about them? Is there someone we claim to have forgiven while secretly maintaining a record of their wrongs?
When Jesus tells the repentant thief, "Today you will be with me in paradise," we see forgiveness practiced fully. Notice how Jesus interrupts his communion with the Father to welcome one more sinner into the kingdom. The criminal's simple request—"Jesus, remember me"—stands in stark contrast to our complicated formulas for salvation. This reveals the beautiful truth that nothing and no one is beyond God's forgiveness, challenging us to examine whether we're holding someone's past sin as greater than God's current grace.
With his final words, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit," Jesus fulfills forgiveness finally. All sin—past, present, and future—has been completely dealt with. The debt is canceled, not just deferred. This invites us to trust that our own sins are truly forgiven and to extend that same complete forgiveness to others.
Most powerfully, we see humanity's transformation through witnessing Christ's forgiveness. Our first response at the cross—"He saved others, let him save himself"—becomes "Certainly this man was innocent." When we truly encounter Christ's forgiveness, we can't help but be changed. Will you allow that transformation to reshape how you forgive others today?
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The crucifixion stands as history's ultimate demonstration of sacrificial love—a moment when the sinless Son of God willingly suffered what was rightfully ours to give us what could never be ours through our own efforts.
Journeying through the religious and political trials Jesus endured reveals a profound truth: the Creator of the universe stood silent before His accusers, accepting false charges, mockery, and brutal treatment that our sin deserved. Though declared innocent multiple times by both Pilate and Herod, the crowd demanded His crucifixion instead of Barabbas, an actual insurrectionist and murderer—a powerful picture of the substitution at the heart of our salvation.
This "great exchange" offers believers five extraordinary gifts purchased at the cross. Through expiation, our sin is completely removed, liberating us from crushing guilt and shame. Through propitiation, God's righteous anger toward sin is fully satisfied, assuring us that no sin is too grievous to be forgiven. Through justification, we're declared righteous despite our imperfections, giving us a fresh start not just once but daily. Through reconciliation, we're brought back into relationship with the Father we ran from, providing the family connection our hearts crave. Through imputation, we're clothed in Christ's perfection, addressing our deepest feelings of inadequacy.
These aren't theological abstractions but practical, life-changing realities available to anyone who comes with empty hands and an open heart. Whatever your struggle today—whether shame over past mistakes, doubt about God's forgiveness, need for a fresh start, longing for family, or feelings of never measuring up—the cross offers precisely what you need. Will you reach out and receive what Jesus suffered so greatly to give you?
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The garden of Gethsemane reveals encouraging truths about suffering that can transform how Christians navigate their own pain. Two profound insights lie hidden in this familiar passage: Jesus knows the solution before we even encounter the problem, and God deliberately preserved the details of Jesus' suffering so we would know our pain is never foreign to him.
• Jesus went to pray "as was his custom" even facing his darkest hour
• An angel strengthened Jesus, yet he remained in agony
• Supernatural support from God doesn't always end our difficulties but enables us to endure them
• Five elements of a (non-exhaustive) Christian doctrine of suffering: it's promised, unites us with Christ, equips us to comfort others, deepens our dependence on God, and produces spiritual growth
• Suffering has purpose—it produces endurance, character, and hope
• Jesus moved from confidence to conflict and back to confidence again
• Peter's denial was met not with rejection but with Jesus' gaze of love
• God specially preserved the intimate details of Jesus' suffering that no disciple witnessed
• Jesus understands our suffering firsthand—he has carried every grief and sorrow
• Our Savior holds the fix before the failure ever occurs
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What does it mean to truly be great in God's kingdom? In this powerful exploration of Luke 22:24-30, we discover Jesus confronting his disciples in a moment of profound disconnect—they're arguing about who's the greatest while Jesus prepares for his imminent sacrifice.
The contrast couldn't be more striking. While the disciples jockey for position, Jesus redefines greatness through the lens of service: "The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them... But not so with you." This countercultural teaching challenges our deepest assumptions about leadership, success, and significance.
Most of us approach serving others with what might be called a "cut the check" mentality—keeping our distance, maintaining comfort, preserving our status. Jesus, however, demonstrates incarnational service. He didn't merely send help from heaven; he entered our world, walked our paths, felt our pain, and ultimately gave his life. True greatness isn't found in receiving service but in providing it.
What's particularly moving about this passage is Jesus' interaction with Peter. When Satan demands to "sift him like wheat," Jesus doesn't promise to defeat the enemy outright—he simply says, "I have prayed for you." This prayer carries power (Christ's authority over all things), permanence (he never stops interceding), and purpose (to bring us safely home). Even knowing Peter will fail spectacularly, Jesus assures him of restoration and future purpose.
This reveals the heart of the gospel: a perfect kingdom awaits those who underestimate their enemy, overestimate themselves, and follow a rejected king. We're all limping to the finish line in some area of our lives. The good news? Jesus doesn't demand impressive performance—he picks us up when we fall and carries us home.
Just like exhausted marathon runners who collapse before crossing the finish line, we were never meant to complete this race on our own strength. The incredible reality is that God doesn't disqualify us for our failures but gives us the perfect record of Christ himself. Will you trust the One who serves, the One who prays, the One who carries you across the line?
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The tension between control and betrayal during the Last Supper reveals deep truths about human nature and divine fate. We explore Judas Iscariot’s decisions and the significance of Jesus’s sacrifice through the lens of Luke 22.
• Key events leading up to the Last Supper
• The significance of Passover in the context
• The motivations behind Judas's betrayal
• Jesus's transformative teachings at the meal
• Understanding the new covenant introduced by Jesus
• The call to heartfelt introspection for believers
• The implications of Jesus's sacrifice for our lives
• The importance of authentic faith over appearances
• The assurance of God's control throughout the narrative
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
This episode explores Jesus's teachings from Luke 21 about the end times, focusing on the need for believers to hold onto hope and maintain an active faith. We discuss how individual posture influences our response to a chaotic world, and emphasize the church’s role in bringing fearlessness to those in need.
• Reflection on inner posture and its impact on faith
• Contextual background of Jesus's last teachings
• The importance of anticipating Jesus’s return
• Faithful ways to respond to end-time anxieties
• The call to a fearless church amid global distress
• Seven key realities about the end times
• Encouragement towards personal engagement and community
• Watchfulness and preparation for Jesus's return
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Jesus teaches that all earthly things are temporary, and true faith lies in trusting Him. As we reflect on the message of Luke 21, we explore themes of suffering, opportunity, and enduring faith in the face of life's uncertainties.
• Disciple's admiration for the Temple and Jesus' counterpoint
• The widow’s offering as a lesson in true devotion
• Urgency of discerning truth amidst distractions
• Viewing suffering as opportunities for witness
• Hope in eternal promises amid life’s challenges
• Importance of faith over material stability
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We venture into the fascinating dynamics between Jesus and the religious leaders of His time, exploring themes of authority and sacrificial generosity. By unpacking Psalm 110, we unravel the Messiah's unparalleled authority, reshaping our perspectives on faith and giving. Through the inspiring example of the poor widow's quiet act of generosity, we are reminded of the true essence of giving and faith. Join us in this enlightening journey where we embrace our weaknesses and God's gracious provision, all while sharing a light-hearted laugh about a baptism setup hiccup reflecting our readiness to support each other in faith.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Have you ever found yourself awestruck by the wisdom of someone so much that it changes your entire perspective? Will shares his experiences of being starstruck by influential figures like David Crowder and John Piper, drawing parallels with the profound impact of Jesus' teachings in Luke 20. Through his famous advice to "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God the things that are God's," Jesus not only silenced his critics but left an enduring message of how we should navigate tricky interactions with wisdom and grace. We explore the importance of turning admiration into actionable change, inspired by Jesus as a model for managing difficult relationships.
Imagine using your opponent's strength against them, not in a fight, but in a conversation. This week, we unravel how Jesus, much like a skilled judoka, masterfully navigates conflicts, such as the contentious issue of paying taxes to Caesar. His approach introduces a 'third way,' demonstrating the gospel's unique method of transcending binary choices. As we dissect these encounters, we delve into the rich layers of meaning behind Jesus' responses, emphasizing the heart over material concerns and encouraging us to embody peace and confidence in our daily interactions.
Do you wonder how the belief in resurrection shapes our lives today? We examine a thought-provoking dialogue between Jesus and the Sadducees that challenges the concept of resurrection, revealing deeper truths about life after death. This episode sheds light on how setting our minds on heavenly things can transform our earthly struggles, offering hope and accountability. We conclude by reflecting on the gentle grace of Christ through communion, celebrating the ongoing transformation in our faith journey and the call to live a life marked by forgiveness and love. Join us for an exploration of how these timeless teachings continue to resonate and inspire change.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Authority and hope intersect in our latest discussion about the delicate balance between following God’s will and grappling with human authority. We encourage listeners to explore their feelings about authority while reflecting on the importance of recognizing God’s sovereignty in all aspects of life.
• Exploring personal experiences with authority figures
• Navigating the current perception of authority in society
• Questioning the stability of hope in changing times
• Analyzing Jesus' parable of the tenants and the vineyard
• Understanding reactions to authority: acceptance versus rebellion
• Reflecting on the grace offered to those who wrestle with authority
• Calling for a personal assessment of one’s own authority structures
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The episode emphasizes the importance of church community and the call to actively shepherd one another through life's challenges. It discusses the roles of church members and leaders, the value of church membership, and the necessity of speaking truth in love to foster spiritual growth.
• Exploring the divine call to shepherding within the church
• Understanding the roles of leaders and members in ministry
• The significance of church membership for accountability
• The relational dynamics of speaking truth in love
• Encouragement for members to engage actively in community
• Emphasizing spiritual maturity amidst cultural challenges
• The collective commitment to grow and develop as a unified body
May we celebrate the delights and the difficulties of life. May we be mature and held firm when the world around us is not, would You fill our voices with truth against all of the lies of the world?
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
This episode reveals the powerful impact of active participation in church communities, emphasizing that attending is not enough. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their roles, contributing their time, talent, and treasure to foster a family-like environment where service is central to experiencing God’s love.
• Reflection on Romans 12 and Acts 20
• Sharing statistics about church engagement
• The risks of complacency in faith communities
• Exploring the biblical call to service and commitment
• The significance of community and family in church identity
• Challenging listeners to identify their unique contributions
• Emphasizing the joy of serving as a response to God’s love
• Encouraging financial stewardship aligned with genuine heart
• Practical steps for getting involved in the church family
• Reinforcing that everyone has a place and a role to play
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The episode explores the delicate balance between love and duty, particularly reflecting on the Apostle Paul's emotional farewell to the church in Ephesus. It examines how a vibrant community demands both solid theology and genuine connection among its members, urging listeners to actively engage with their faith and each other.
• Relationship dynamics of love and avoidance
• Paul's emotional farewell to the Ephesians
•Importance of serving with humility
•Struggles and authenticity in community life
•The power of truth-telling in spiritual accountability
•Lifelong growth beyond Sunday attendance
•The overarching mission of mutual support and love
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The episode explores the transformative power of spiritual discipline from the perspective of Christian identity, emphasizing that our worth is rooted in God's love rather than our performance. The discussion ranges across various disciplines, such as Scripture reading, solitude, prayer, fasting, worship, and giving, all illustrating how these practices shape our faith and help us grow closer to God.
• Highlighting the importance of discipline from Hebrews 12
• Discussing the foundational principle of identity over activity
• Emphasizing the role of Scripture in spiritual nourishment
• Exploring the necessity of solitude for spiritual health
• Analyzing the significance of prayer in daily life
• Delving into fasting as a means of spiritual realignment
• Recognizing worship as both lifestyle and expression
• Encouraging giving as an extension of faith
The call to action for listeners is to reflect on their own lives and implement these disciplines to deepen their relationship with God.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Want to truly understand the nativity story? Join us as we seek to shed new light on this age-old tale. We journey through the books of Luke and Matthew, tracing the steps of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus from Nazareth to Bethlehem, and then to Egypt, unraveling prophecies along the way. Together, we bust common myths, revealing a more faithful understanding of what happened on that first Christmas.
We also reflect on the purpose-filled travels of the holy family, drawing rich connections to prophecies in Proverbs, Jeremiah, and Revelation. Each location—Nazareth, Judea, and Bethlehem—holds a deeper significance, pointing to Jesus as the prophesied ruler and "bread of life." This isn't just a story about the past; it's a blueprint for recognizing God's plans in our lives today. Even the smallest movements can lead to profound outcomes, and Jesus' life exemplifies the faith and purpose we can strive to emulate.
Finally, our discussion turns to faith as a journey of trust through yesterday, today, and tomorrow. By looking back at God's past actions—like the fulfilled prophecies in Matthew 2—we find strength for the future. This Christmas, as we celebrate with family traditions, we encourage you to keep a record of God's faithfulness. It's a powerful way to nurture a resilient faith that's ready for the challenges of the new year. As we reflect on where we've been and where we're going, let's embrace the spirit of Christmas with prayer and gratitude, trusting in God's faithful guidance every step of the way.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Discover the true depth of the nativity story with our exploration of its rich historical and spiritual context. We promise to challenge your understanding of the Christmas narrative, sharing insights into the loneliness experienced by Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds. Together, we'll uncover how God’s message through this story is a remedy for isolation and a beacon of hope for all people.
Ever wondered if Jesus was actually born in the winter? Join us as we dissect the roles of the shepherds and wise men, questioning traditional notions and suggesting a more accurate historical timeline for Jesus' birth. By examining the inclusivity of God's message, we highlight how it transcends societal and racial barriers, continuing to resonate with profound relevance today. You’ll find our discussion on the symbolism of the guiding star and its universal invitation to Jesus fascinating and eye-opening.
As we reflect on the significance of the incarnation, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how trusting in Jesus transforms sacrifices into meaningful experiences. With inspiration from St. Augustine, we discuss how Jesus' profound love and sacrifice empower us to live a life of faith and devotion. This episode is a heartfelt invitation to see the nativity story not just as a tale of old but as an ongoing call to embrace the transformative power of faith in our everyday lives.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Have you ever wondered how reimagining a nativity scene could lead to profound theological insights? Join us on a reflective journey through the Advent season as we explore the isolation and eventual unity of biblical figures like Mary, Joseph, and Zachariah. Through personal anecdotes and a touch of humor, we take a fresh look at the Christmas story, fostering a childlike faith and openness to divine surprises.
Embrace the joy and mystery of God’s pacing as we dive into the themes of expectation and divine timing. By comparing Zachariah and Elizabeth’s story to our own holiday hustle, we highlight the divine wonders that often defy our sense of fairness and timing. This episode encourages a shift from efficiency-driven tasks to savoring the anticipation and wonder inherent in the Advent season, offering a deeper appreciation of God's miraculous plans.
Imagine celebrating Christmas not just as a season but as a year-round mindset. Inspired by Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation, we discuss the importance of gratitude and preparation in daily life, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of quality time with loved ones. Through the lens of Advent's anticipation, we invite you to keep your heart open and ready for God's surprises all year long, making the message of hope and love a constant pursuit.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if your nativity scene isn't telling the real story of Christmas? Join us on a journey to "Fix Your Nativity," where we challenge traditional depictions and explore the profound truths behind the birth of Jesus. Through a fresh lens, we reevaluate common misconceptions and dive into the authentic narratives found in Matthew and Luke. This transformative series invites you to reconsider each piece of your nativity setup, transforming them into powerful reminders of God's abundant grace. With resources like Bible Gateway's Christmas story timeline, you'll gain a richer understanding of how these biblical accounts intricately connect.
Journey through the loneliness and fear that marked the first Christmas, and discover how pivotal figures like Mary, Joseph, and Elizabeth navigated God's plans in solitude. As the holiday season becomes a whirlwind of activity, we reflect on the quiet moments that began it all, where God spoke individually to Mary and Joseph. By embracing these stories, we offer solace to those who feel alone during the festive season and open up a new perspective on spiritual connection and the formation of a larger Family in faith.
We also reimagine the birthplace of Jesus, examining cultural and biblical interpretations that challenge the idea of an innkeeper turning away Mary and Joseph. Delving into original Greek translations, we uncover a more nuanced setting, while exploring the roles of shepherds and Magi as they deepen the nativity story's faith-building moments. Finally, we contemplate the journey from sin to redemption, from the cradle to the cross, highlighting the profound theological concepts of adoption into God's family. Join us as we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and the transformative journey of faith it represents.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What can the story of Abraham teach us about trust and faith in the face of unimaginable challenges? Join us as we explore the compelling narrative of Genesis 22, where Abraham's faith is put to the ultimate test. By drawing parallels between Abraham's journey and the anticipation of Thanksgiving, we uncover the integral role of preparation in building faith and highlight how leaving behind the familiar can lead to divine blessings. This episode promises to provide insights into embracing life's uncertainties with hope, grounded in God's unwavering promises.
Abraham's journey to the mountain of provision is more than just a story of sacrifice; it's a profound lesson on obedience and trust in divine provision. As we examine this narrative alongside Jesus' path to the crucifixion, we see God's method of shaping believers through tests and challenges. Just as God provided manna in the Exodus, He leads us to rely on His provision over earthly securities. Through these stories, listeners are encouraged to view trials as opportunities for growth and strengthened faith in their relationship with God.
The symbolism within Abraham's sacrifice of Isaac foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice through Christ, offering a deeper understanding of God's redemptive plan. We'll reflect on the emotional weight of Abraham's test and the concept of substitutionary atonement, where a ram stands in place of Isaac, prefiguring Jesus as the Lamb of God. By the end of this episode, you'll be invited to trust God's plan, even when the path is unclear, and consider how trials can lead to unexpected blessings and fulfillment of His promises. Join us on this journey of faith and discover the necessity of embracing Jesus in our lives.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Discover the profound intersection of generosity and faith as we explore whether an all-powerful God truly needs our involvement in His plans. Join us as we navigate the teachings of Jesus, examining the themes He emphasized during His ministry, from marriage and money to the power of prayer. With the backdrop of Jesus's entry into Jerusalem and the symbolic act of fetching a colt, we challenge the conventional understanding of divine necessity and invite you to reflect on your own spiritual journey.
Through biblical narratives like Exodus 35 and the Israelites' transformation from receivers to givers, we highlight the vital role of human participation in God's divine story. Unpack the mystery of the phrase "the Lord has need" and consider why God, despite His omnipotence, calls upon us to contribute to His kingdom. As we reflect on the Israelites' journey from slavery to freedom, we emphasize the heart's intent in giving, urging a shift from materialistic measures to open-hearted generosity as an act of worship and faith.
Inspired by the timeless lesson of Jesus's humble ride into Jerusalem, we delve into the essence of Christian identity and purpose. The symbolism of Christ's entry, as foretold by Zechariah, serves as a profound reminder of peace, sacrifice, and humility. By embracing our roles within God's grand narrative, we cultivate a spirit of unity and selflessness. Reflect on Solomon's wisdom in Ecclesiastes as we call you to prioritize a life centered on Christ, embracing generosity as a reflection of divine love and a path to spiritual growth.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if the labels we're given don’t define our true potential for change? Join us as we unravel the story of Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector often dismissed by society, yet eager to seek Jesus and transform his life. Through an insightful exploration of his story in Luke 19, we challenge you to reflect on how you are truly remembered—beyond mere appearances—and embrace the profound transformative power that comes from seeking grace and redemption.
You'll hear personal stories that resonate with Zacchaeus’ journey, illustrating the impact of grace and the joy found in redemption. Imagine a world where no one is given up on, where each individual is offered a chance to make amends and embrace change. We explore the importance of allowing room for transformation in our relationships, as demonstrated by Zacchaeus' radical decision to right his wrongs. This episode serves as a reminder of the unwavering hope present in every opportunity for change and redemption.
Finally, we invite you to reflect on the essence of generosity and service in your own life. Inspired by Zacchaeus's newfound joy in giving, we discuss the liberating power of generosity that transcends past greed and transforms it into service. This conversation challenges you to reevaluate what truly holds value and encourages a life that not only shares the gospel but finds fulfillment in selfless giving. It’s a call to action, to stand taller in faith, and to find eternal significance in our purposeful actions.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if the path to eternal life is obscured by the very comforts we hold dear? Join us as we unravel the compelling story of the rich young ruler in Luke 18, where a simple question leads to profound revelations about wealth, faith, and salvation. Through personal anecdotes and reflective insights, we challenge ourselves to recognize the divine truths often hidden in plain sight, drawing parallels to our own spiritual journeys and readiness to embrace the path God has laid before us.
As we turn the pages of this narrative, the intricate dance between material wealth and spiritual devotion comes into focus. How does our reliance on comfort and luxury shape our faith in God? By examining Jesus' encounter with the rich young man, we explore the possibility of aligning our hearts with God's kingdom despite the pull of worldly possessions. This episode invites us to reassess our dependencies and consider how grace, though unearned, calls us to strive for excellence in serving others and embracing a life that echoes eternity.
Amidst these reflections, the theme of spiritual blindness emerges in sharp relief, offering a poignant reminder of where true assurance lies. Inspired by Fanny Crosby's timeless hymn "Blessed Assurance," we celebrate stories of faith that shine through life's imperfections. In the narrative of the blind man, we find a powerful testament to the comfort and certainty found in knowing Jesus. Together, we seek mercy, fix our hearts on Christ, and trust in the assurance of faith that promises peace and fulfillment, no matter the trials we face.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Ever wondered how the power of persistent prayer can reshape your faith journey? Tune in as we explore the teachings of the parable of the persistent widow from Luke 18, revealing how unwavering prayer aligns us with God's timing and justice. Discover how this biblical story becomes a blueprint for maintaining hope and patience, even when divine responses seem elusive. We'll challenge the common expectations of prayer as a simple wish list and instead emphasize its role in deepening our connection with God.
Picture this: a spontaneous hunting trip turns into an unexpected lesson in faith and family. I share a personal story with my son Ames, which highlights the beauty of being present and appreciating the blessings God gives us every day. This narrative serves as a reminder to recognize past blessings and trust in God's plan, even when life's outcomes are unpredictable. Reflect with us on whether God will find faith within us upon His return and how our trust in divine sovereignty shapes our lives.
True worship goes beyond routine rituals—it's about embracing humility and mercy. We delve into the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, emphasizing the transformative power of acknowledging our sins and seeking God's grace. By adopting a childlike faith, we're called to trust in God's provision and justice, free from societal expectations. Join us in understanding how genuine spiritual growth comes from seeking a deeper relationship with God, fostering a heart open to His boundless love and mercy.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What does it truly mean to be healed? Journey with us through the compelling narrative of Jesus and the ten lepers from Luke 17:11-19. We unravel the profound distinction between physical healing and spiritual wholeness, as exemplified by the Samaritan leper who returned to express gratitude. By reflecting on his actions, we uncover the layers of faith, gratitude, and divine recognition that still resonate powerfully today. This story isn't just an ancient tale; it's a lesson that challenges both believers and skeptics to acknowledge and appreciate the miracles in our everyday lives.
As we navigate this passage, we invite you to consider the transformative power of faith. How does the kingdom of God manifest in our daily experiences, and why do worldly distractions often blind us to this presence? Through an exploration of Jesus as the high priest offering more than just temporary relief, we examine how faith encourages a deeper spiritual connection. Our discussion delves into the contrasting responses of the Pharisees and the disciples, highlighting the importance of remaining open to the kingdom's presence amidst the noise of modern expectations.
Finally, we address the often unspoken fears and anxieties surrounding salvation. Reflecting on personal experiences and biblical teachings, we discuss the urgency of living with anticipation of Christ's return. Rather than succumbing to fear or anxiety about being "saved enough," we focus on the assurance found in Jesus' promise of forgiveness. Through engaging stories and relevant analogies, we emphasize that spiritual vigilance and a focus on the eternal promise can inspire us to prioritize meaningful connections over superficial distractions, ensuring we remain fully awake and ready for the spiritual realities ahead.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Imagine driving straight into the sunlight with a filthy windshield, struggling to see the road ahead. What hidden issues in our lives might be clouding our vision and preventing us from reflecting the grace and image of Christ? Join us as we navigate the profound teachings of Luke 17, where we confront the realities of temptation, forgiveness, and faith, challenging conventional perspectives and urging a deep introspection of our own spiritual journeys.
We're diving into the heart of Jesus' teachings on the inevitability of temptation and the moral weight of guiding others astray. We explore the severe warnings against causing someone to stumble and the critical role of community responsibility. From the disciples' heartfelt request for increased faith to the call for mutual accountability, we examine how embracing these challenging teachings can foster personal and communal growth.
Duty, service, and humility are woven into the fabric of our lives, yet often overlooked as extraordinary acts. We discuss how fulfilling our responsibilities aligns us with the essence of Jesus' message, transforming ordinary tasks into acts of grace. The unseen dynamics of forgiveness take center stage, as we highlight the importance of letting go of bitterness within personal and communal relationships. With a focus on grace and reconciliation, we invite you to reflect on those you may need to forgive, while drawing strength from prayer and community support.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What if the story of a wayward son could offer profound insights into the essence of forgiveness and redemption? Join me, Larry, an elder at Midtree, as we uncover the hidden depths of the parables in Luke 15. Through the lens of societal and religious dynamics of Jesus' time, including the perspectives of tax collectors and religious leaders, we unravel the contrasting attitudes between the two brothers and the boundless grace extended by the father.
Drawing parallels between spiritual care and the attention needed for herd animals, like my Nigerian dwarf goats, we highlight the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin. Just like my goats needing gentle guidance, those who are spiritually lost require compassion and understanding. Jesus exemplifies this tender approach, diligently seeking out and valuing each individual. Our conversation emphasizes the call for believers to guide others back to their faith community with empathy, ensuring no one feels isolated or forgotten.
Celebrating God's grace, we confront thought-provoking questions about forgiveness, even for the most notorious figures like Jeffrey Dahmer. The sufficiency of Christ's blood to cover any sin invites us to shift our focus from judgment to introspection, acknowledging our own need for redemption. As we prepare for communion, let's rest in God's grace, unite as a community, and meditate on the promises of eternal celebration before the Father. This episode challenges us to embrace the transformative power of forgiveness and the all-encompassing love of Christ.
If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Can the way you use your wealth determine your eternal destiny? Join us as we explore the profound parable of the rich man and Lazarus from Luke 16:19-31, uncovering the stark contrasts between opulence and destitution and its eternal ramifications. This episode promises a thought-provoking discussion on how our earthly choices resonate into eternity, urging us to reflect on our resources and priorities.
As we delve into the rich man’s luxurious life symbolized by his rare purple garments and his apathy towards Lazarus, who suffers at his gate, we unravel the depths of divine justice and compassion. Lazarus, named and cared for by God despite his poverty, serves as a poignant reminder of the eternal significance of the marginalized. We juxtapose this with the rich man’s anonymity and his desperate plea from the afterlife, emphasizing the vital importance of compassion, justice, and love for our neighbors.
Drawing inspiration from CT Studd’s resonant quote, "Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last," we contemplate the paramount importance of living a Christ-centered life. Through the lens of biblical teachings, we discuss repentance, faith, and the transformative power of the resurrection. From the urgency of repentance to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ, this episode invites you to evaluate your life through an eternal perspective, finding hope and purpose in aligning your actions with divine purposes.
Marriage, divorce, and remarriage—what do these mean through the lens of scripture? Today, we dive into exploration of these deeply personal topics, framed by the teachings of Jesus as captured in Luke 16. We invite you to reflect on your own experiences with divorce and the profound spiritual insights presented in the Bible. How does stewardship and trust in God intersect with the sanctity of marriage? Join us as we uncover the answers together.
We journey through the societal and religious contexts of Jesus' time, delving into his responses to the Pharisees’ questions about divorce. We expose the misuse of divorce certificates for personal gain, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the sanctity of marriage. With examples from dowries to marital laws, we highlight the exploitation and selfishness that can pervade relationships, urging listeners to recognize marriage as a divine act of stewardship. Every detail matters to God, and this episode underscores His profound care for every aspect of our lives, especially in marriage.
Maintaining a Christian faith amid cultural influences is no small feat, but it's essential for a fulfilling marital relationship. Through biblical narratives like Hosea’s story and the encounter of Jesus with the Samaritan woman, we illustrate themes of forgiveness and transformation. Whether married or single, we encourage you to embrace God’s grace, make righteous decisions, and reflect your faith in daily life.
How can a seemingly dishonest act teach us about faith and trust in God? This episode unpacks one of Jesus' most perplexing parables: the story of the shrewd manager. We dissect the intricate narrative where a manager, fired for mismanagement, uses cunning strategies to secure his future. By understanding this parable, listeners gain insights into human nature, the importance of accountability, and the eternal impact of our choices. Dive deep with us into Jesus' teachings on resource stewardship, trust, and wisdom.
Ever wondered why Jesus would commend a dishonest manager? Join us as we explore various scholarly interpretations and theories behind this puzzling commendation. Whether it’s about improving his master's reputation or strategic planning for future favor, we discuss the ethical complexities and pragmatic commendability of the manager's actions. We draw parallels between this parable and other biblical stories, such as the parable of the ten virgins, highlighting the importance of shrewdness and foresight in preparing for a righteous future.
In our final segment, we shift our focus to the broader themes of stewardship and eternal impact. We emphasize that generosity is not just a sacrifice but an investment in eternity, encouraging faithful actions in our daily lives. The metaphor of a tree planted by water illustrates our need to be deeply rooted in faith, finding sustenance in God's love. Through prayer and genuine faith, we invite you to embrace Christ's redemptive work and live out your faith authentically, promising eternal rewards and spiritual fulfillment. Join us for this enriching journey of understanding and faith.
Are you prepared to face the true cost of discipleship? Join us as we unpack the profound teachings of Jesus in Luke 14:25-35 and John 6:65, where we highlight the significant commitment required to follow Christ. We delve into the necessity of careful planning and dedication in our spiritual journey, and personal stories that underscore the importance of thoughtful preparation and intentionality in all aspects of life, mirroring the depth of commitment needed to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
In this episode, we take on Jesus' challenging statements about prioritizing our devotion to God above all other relationships and commitments, even when it means making hard choices. We explore what it means to "hate" one's family and oneself in a metaphorical sense, shedding light on the radical commitment Jesus demands from his disciples. Our discussion goes beyond the surface, examining the weight of carrying one's cross, whether it's sharing faith with colleagues, overcoming personal vices, or remaining steadfast in difficult relationships.
Amidst the trials of discipleship, we also find the beauty and joy in following Christ. Highlighting biblical symbolism and references from Ezekiel and Judges, we discuss how God cleanses us and assures us of His judgment over our sins. We draw encouragement from the promise of ultimate joy and glory found in Christ, who reigns over all things. If you're seeking peace and strength in your spiritual journey, embark on this episode with us as we offer practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement for intentional faith planning and commitment.
Does true honor come from our own ambitions, or is it something bestowed upon us through humility? Join us as we dissect the profound lessons of humility and generosity derived from Luke 14:1-11. We'll challenge you to examine the balance between pride, wealth, self-assurance, and humility in your life, and engage in a practical self-assessment exercise designed to reveal which traits resonate most with you.
In our exploration of the parable of choosing seats at a wedding feast, we underscore the significance of placing others before ourselves. Jesus’ teachings to His disciples about serving rather than seeking greatness are spotlighted, urging us to extend generosity without expectations.
Lastly, we delve into the spiritual invitation to God's table, stressing the importance of responding with humility and focusing on the deeper messages behind miraculous events. Reflect on the joyous and inclusive nature of God's grace, as we revisit the man with dropsy at the dinner party and the celebratory message of Nehemiah 8. Through this episode, we invite you to embrace humility, recognize the divine gifts in your life, and rejoice in the strength and joy that comes from understanding and living God's word.
What if the mission of your faith was a lifelong journey that began long before you were born and continues into eternity? In today's episode, we explore this profound idea by distinguishing between "mission" and "missions" within the Christian faith. Join us as Will, our lead pastor, Thomas, our youth pastor, and David Blanchard, the leader of our missions team, offer their unique perspectives, drawing from Revelation 21 and Psalm 96. Discover how the joy and benefits of knowing the Lord should be our primary motivation for mission work, and why our ultimate goal is for all nations to be reconciled to God.
We hope you're inspired by real-life stories that illustrate the practical aspects of living out your faith daily. Reflecting on a mission trip to Kenya, we emphasize how simple acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, even in predominantly Muslim countries. Guided by Psalm 96, we discuss the importance of singing to the Lord and telling of His salvation every day. Learn how true discipleship requires daily engagement, and how your everyday actions can serve as powerful testimonies of Christian love and faithfulness.
Ever wondered how joy can become the driving force behind the Christian mission? Join us as we uncover the profound connection between happiness and spreading God's word. We'll dive into a humorous story about my pre-episode preparations that will have you chuckling before we explore what it truly means to joyfully expand God's kingdom. We will delve into the power of the Holy Spirit and how a deep enjoyment of God is essential for true evangelism. Our journey takes us through Revelation 21, where understanding our ultimate destination helps us face today's challenges with a renewed spirit of evangelism.
The imagery of the new Jerusalem and God's dwelling comes alive as we discuss the end of separation, darkness, and fear. I share a touching story about my young son, Emmett, to illustrate God's desire to dwell intimately with His people. This chapter paints a vivid picture of the church as the bride of Christ, worshiping together in perfect harmony, and highlights the comfort and care that come from God's ever-present love. We reflect on King David's story and the compelling message that God prefers to be among His people, emphasizing His accessibility and personal care, and explore the duality of His nature—both supreme and compassionate.
From a thrilling safari experience symbolizing Jesus as both the Lion and the Lamb to inspiring stories from a pastor's conference and church build in Kenya, our episode is rich with metaphors and real-life testimonies. You'll hear about a Muslim woman whose vivid dreams led her to newfound freedom in Christ, showcasing the transformative power of faith and evangelism. As we wrap up, we focus on the eternal hope and encouragement offered by Christ's sacrifice, urging listeners to embrace a renewed understanding of their faith and a deeper commitment to evangelism. This episode is a heartfelt call to recognize the eternal significance of every person we encounter and to live out our mission with joy and hope.
What if the greatest rescue mission ever conceived was unfolding right before our eyes? Join us as we uncover "The Story of Redemption" and witness how God orchestrates a divine plan to save humanity from the clutches of sin. Through the lens of Genesis, we reflect on the Fall and the profound necessity of redemption, driving home the point that living eternally in sin is a fate worse than death. Discover why no one seeks rescue from paradise, and why our ultimate need is for salvation from the darkness within.
Imagine being called to a mission that turns struggle into profound joy. In "Living Missionally," we grapple with our human limitations and celebrate God's mercy in giving us finite lifespans for the sake of protecting paradise. Learn why missional living should be seen as a thrilling opportunity rather than a dutiful obligation. We'll share insights on how embracing the mission of Christ can transform our daily lives and contribute to the grand tapestry of God's kingdom.
The journey doesn’t stop there. We dive into the stories of biblical giants in "Call to Mission and Blessing" and "The Mission of Moses." From Abraham's courageous journey to Moses' pivotal leadership, we explore the power of faith and obedience. Witness how small acts of devotion can lead to monumental outcomes, as illustrated in "Biblical Characters Following God's Call." Finally, "God's Mission and Believers' Response" and "The Promise of Blessing and Opportunity" invite you to reflect on the transformative power of trust in God's plans. Engage with us as we uncover the timeless lessons of purpose, faith, and divine blessing, and find your place in this enduring story.
Can you imagine being set free from 18 years of suffering with just a word? In today's episode, we unravel the profound story of Jesus healing a woman with a disabling spirit on the Sabbath, a moment that challenges traditional norms and emphasizes the power of compassion over rigid adherence to rules. Through this narrative, we reflect on the importance of recognizing our own brokenness and choosing joy over shame when encountering Christ's transformative power. By examining the woman's unwavering faith despite her prolonged struggles, we invite you to approach Christ with expectation and openness to spiritual renewal.
Witness the remarkable tension between Jesus and the synagogue ruler who criticizes His healing on the Sabbath, sparking a powerful discussion on the essence of compassion versus tradition. Jesus's response highlights His mission to liberate individuals from long-standing afflictions, challenging established norms and emphasizing the enduring message of love and liberation. We also share a touching story about Brian, a homeless man, illustrating how deep engagement with the Word of God fosters genuine compassion within a church community and showcases love in action.
Finally, we explore themes of faith, trust, and the transformative power of even the smallest amount of faith placed in Christ. Through humorous and poignant reflections, we draw parallels between investing in stocks and investing in faith, emphasizing the importance of where we place our trust. Reflecting on the steadfast love of God, we encourage a response of joy and gratitude for His goodness, inviting you to embrace faith, seek spiritual healing, and rejoice in God's unwavering love. Join us for this heartfelt episode that challenges, inspires, and offers a fresh perspective on faith and spiritual renewal.
What if you could truly let go of all your anxieties and trust in God's provision, even in the most turbulent times? Today, we explore Luke 12:22-32, where Jesus teaches us about the futility of anxiety and the boundless care of our Heavenly Father. We'll share a moving story about a tragic event and how it reinforced the message of God's sovereignty and the importance of seeking His kingdom first. This episode is a timely reminder from the Holy Spirit, especially relevant amid life's uncertainties.
As we tackle the pervasive issue of anxiety, we reflect on the profound wisdom from Jesus' teachings. Can faith and anxiety coexist? Through personal stories and real-life examples, such as a neighbor's potential break-in, we uncover how vigilance, trust, and community play pivotal roles in our spiritual journey. By engaging deeply with our spiritual gifts and responsibilities, we find that our anxiety diminishes as our sense of purpose and fulfillment grows.
In our final segments, we draw inspiration from nature and the simplicity of faith as small as lillies. Discover practical ways to overcome anxiety by focusing on God's abundant provision and the strength found in supportive relationships. We conclude with an invitation to embrace Christ's fellowship and live in joyous anticipation of His return. Tune in and be encouraged to let go of worry and embrace the peace that comes from trusting in God's eternal care.
Is your life a series of distractions pulling you away from what truly matters? Join us as we explore the profound themes of distractions, wisdom, and spiritual awareness through the lens of Luke 11:29-36. We reflect on Jesus' powerful message to an eager crowd and challenge ourselves to recognize the light within us amidst the darkness. By examining how personal passions can divert our focus from important tasks and relationships, we aim to inspire a deeper sense of spiritual readiness and purpose.
How does our generation measure up to the standards of wisdom and accountability set by Jesus? We delve into Jesus' critique of his contemporaries, comparing them to the historical examples of Solomon and Jonah. Despite access to unprecedented wisdom, Jesus' generation largely rejected Him. Through personal anecdotes, we confront the uncomfortable truth that we might be squandering our own opportunities and resources. This discussion invites us to reconsider our priorities and embrace the abundance and wisdom available to us today.
What does it mean to live with true wisdom and humility? We unpack the essence of wisdom as seeing the world through God's eyes, acknowledging distractions, and avoiding the pitfalls of hypocrisy and self-absorption. Search Jesus' teachings on inner purity, we emphasize the importance of leading by example, generosity, and authentic Christian living. As we wrap up, we highlight the profound hope and freedom found in Christ, urging listeners to seek God's grace in overcoming self-centeredness and to embody humility in their spiritual journey.
Ever wondered how a seemingly ancient text like Luke 11:14-26 could hold profound lessons for your modern life? Join us in our latest episode as we navigate this powerful passage and draw surprising parallels to a recent fishing trip in Canada. Discover the purpose and intention needed to truly engage with scripture, much like a fisherman uses a fish finder to navigate the waters effectively.
Do you know where the phrase "by the finger of God" appears in the Bible? We uncover the three significant occurrences, emphasizing God's triumph over both external and internal adversaries. Reflect with us on the comprehensive victory Jesus offers, urging us to confront our inner struggles through divine power. This episode promises to deepen your understanding of faith and God's authority in our lives.
Our conversation takes a poignant turn as we explore the authenticity of faith, contrasting outward religious expressions with deep inner transformation. By examining Jesus' parable about Beelzebub and a home invasion, we illustrate the liberating power of Christ as the stronger man who rescues souls from bondage. Learn about the perils of partial repentance and the necessity of genuine spiritual change. Finally, we call on believers to passionately advance God's kingdom, living lives that shine the gospel's light into the darkest corners of the world. This episode is a call to action, encouraging you to engage deeply with your faith and make a tangible impact.
How does a centuries-old parable still hold such transformative power today? Join us as we unravel the timeless lesson of the Good Samaritan through the words of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. Scott, an elder at Midtree, steps into the pulpit for the first time, inspired by his son Grant. Scott's fresh insight into the parable's characters will leave you marveling at the profound compassion and mercy demonstrated by the Good Samaritan.
Ever wonder how well-versed scholars challenge Jesus and end up enlightened themselves? Witness the fascinating exchange between Jesus and a lawyer as they discuss the greatest commandments: loving God and loving your neighbor. We explore the lawyer's attempt to test Jesus, only to be met with a lesson in humility and the profound challenge these commandments pose, even to those who are experts in the law. We'll reflect on our personal struggles and distractions that hinder wholehearted devotion to God.
Unconditional love isn't just an ideal; it's a call to action. Through the parable of the Good Samaritan, we confront societal and religious boundaries, finding that genuine love knows no limits. Scott shares a poignant personal story about helping a woman, drawing powerful parallels to the Samaritan's actions. We wrap up by connecting this boundless compassion with the gospel message, urging each of us to embody the same compassion throughout the week. Don't miss this heartfelt exploration of God's love and our call to love our neighbors.
What does it mean to truly prioritize spiritual devotion amidst the busyness of life? Discover how Jesus' teachings in Luke 10:38 through Luke 11:13 offer profound insights into this question. In our "Reading and Reflection" segment, we celebrate the vibrant spirit of community. These moments of encouragement highlight the power of coming together in worship and support.
Father's Day takes center stage in our next segment, where we honor fathers of all generations. We share touching moments from a special sermon focused on the story of Mary and Martha, exploring how Jesus teaches the importance of spiritual attentiveness over life's distractions. Personal reflections on sermon preparation and gratitude towards family support add a heartfelt touch, culminating in an invitation to engage in a transformative prayer practice inspired by recent experiences.
In our concluding chapters, we delve deeper into the essence of maintaining a close relationship with God. From the importance of seeing Jesus as our daily portion to practical advice on integrating prayer into daily life, these discussions offer valuable insights. Inspired by timeless biblical teachings, personal anecdotes, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, the episode encourages listeners to pursue a deeper, more meaningful spiritual connection. Join us for an enriching exploration of faith, community, and the profound impact of prioritizing time at the feet of Jesus.
What if ordinary people could perform extraordinary acts of faith? Join us as we recount the mission of the 72 individuals sent out by Jesus in Luke 10, watching them return full of joy and awe that even demons obeyed them in Jesus' name. We celebrate their achievements but also explore Jesus' deeper message: the ultimate joy of salvation. This episode is packed with insights, comparing Jesus' instructions to the 72 with those given to the 12 apostles, and how those principles of faith, reliance on God, and mission focus resonate with us today.
Evangelism isn't just for the experts—it's a calling for everyone. We delve into the pressing issue of the shortage of laborers in the field of evangelism, emphasizing that the problem isn't a lack of potential converts but a scarcity of committed individuals ready to step up. Through inspiring anecdotes, we challenge the notion that only the highly trained can share the gospel effectively. We encourage you to embrace your calling, join evangelism classes, and prepare yourself for the spiritual harvest waiting to be gathered.
Lastly, we'll reflect on the 'woes' pronounced by Jesus on the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, and the enduring consequences they faced for not heeding His message. Using Google Earth, we visually compare their ancient ruins to their past significance, underscoring the lasting impact of Jesus' words. We then turn to the joy of salvation and humility, emphasizing how childlike faith reveals divine truths. Together, we'll celebrate the hope found in the gospel message, reminding every believer that in God's eyes, there are no junior varsity Christians.
Are you ready to experience the transformative power of God's word in a unique and profound way? Join us for an episode where we embrace the enriching practice of "read-through" sessions at Midtree Church. We kick off with an in-depth reading of Luke 10:1-37, where Jesus appoints 72 disciples, emphasizing humility, obedience, and divine revelation. By engaging deeply with these longer passages, we offer a holistic understanding of biblical narratives and prioritize God's word over individual interpretations.
Next, we journey through key teachings in Luke 10:38 through 11:28, exploring the timeless story of Mary and Martha, and the lessons it holds on prioritizing spiritual nourishment. We delve into Jesus' profound teachings on prayer and persistence, and His powerful response to accusations of casting out demons by Beelzebul. The parable of the strong man is also dissected, highlighting the necessity of filling one’s life with God’s presence to maintain spiritual strength and unity.
We then shift our focus to the realization of God's kingdom – both present and future. Through biblical examples, we illustrate how Christ's arrival began to reverse the consequences of sin. We also examine Jesus' warnings to the hypocritical religious leaders, urging genuine holiness and self-reflection. As we reflect on the advantages and responsibilities of modern believers with extensive access to gospel resources, we conclude with a thoughtful meditation on the significance of communion. Join us as we embrace the richness of scripture and the transformative power it holds for our lives today.
Embark on a journey of discovery and transformation with us as we unravel one of the most profound questions ever asked: "Who is Jesus?" Our latest episode takes you through a momentous episode from Luke chapter 9, echoing with the voices of Herod's confusion and Peter's bold proclamation, to explore the very essence of Jesus' identity. Through narratives filled with miracles and mysteries, we navigate the path of discipleship, uncovering the deepening understanding of who Jesus is and why that revelation is pivotal to our own spiritual journey.
Imagine standing on the Mount of Transfiguration, witnessing the majesty of the Christ, or grappling with the gravity of the Cross - this episode immerses you in these defining moments of faith. We explore why Jesus kept his messianic identity a secret and how this strategic revelation played a crucial role in fulfilling his ultimate mission. From the vivid tapestry of his followers' backgrounds to Peter's confession and the prophecies of his destiny, we dissect the intricate layers of Jesus's earthly ministry and its impact on our perceptions.
The act of worship takes center stage as we conclude, inviting you to behold Jesus in all His glory. This isn't just a story; it's a call to worship through the scriptural lens, to let the Holy Spirit guide our understanding, and to embody the work of Christ in our lives. Join us in honoring and praising Jesus together, allowing these eternal truths to illuminate your path and transform your heart.
Have you ever witnessed a simple act of kindness that seemed to echo the miracles of ancient scripture? We're deeply moved by a story of compassion in our community, which beautifully introduces our latest conversation on faith, service, and the teachings of Jesus from Luke Chapter 9. This poignant episode is an exploration of the ways in which Gospel principles are manifested in today's world, as we recount a modern-day act of kindness and its parallels to biblical compassion.
Our journey through the episode reveals the call to embody the message of the Kingdom of God through our actions, embracing simplicity and service. As we break down Luke 9, we discuss the delicate interplay of power, authority, and humility, and how Jesus' instructions to his disciples to 'take nothing' on their journey continues to challenge us to rely on divine sufficiency. We pull valuable insights on the necessity of retreat and reflection, mirroring Jesus' practice to empower our return to service with fresh vigor.
To all those wrestling with the complexities of evangelism and life's purpose, this episode is a gentle reminder of the joy and assurance our faith provides. We delve into the challenges of sharing one's faith and how embracing Jesus' example can integrate spirituality into every facet of life. The episode closes with a heartfelt prayer for acceptance and guidance, affirming the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice and the grace that sustains us daily. Join us for a conversation that celebrates the enduring hope found in Christianity and the strength we draw from the wellspring of divine grace.
Imagine walking through a crowd, carrying a burden so heavy, so isolating, that it seems no one could possibly understand. This is where our journey begins as we traverse the healing narratives of Luke 8, exploring the lives touched by Jesus's compassion and the incredible power of faith. Join us as we recount the stories of Jairus and his daughter, and a woman's twelve-year plight with a debilitating condition, highlighting not only their transformative encounters but also the joyous occasion of the Johnston family's adoption—reminding us of our own spiritual adoption into God's loving family.
The woman with the issue of blood, who bravely reached out to touch the hem of Jesus's garment, serves as the centerpiece of our discussion. Her tale is one of desperation, audacity, and profound faith. We delve into the cultural stigmas and personal anguish she overcame, providing a deeper understanding of her actions and the grace that Jesus extends to us all. Her story invites us to recognize that our brokenness is no barrier to the closeness God desires with us, and that faith can blossom in even the most fear-filled hearts. This segment is an affirmation that we, too, are seen by Jesus, no matter what imperfections we carry.
We wrap up with reflections on the gift of faith and how it shapes our Christian walk, interweaving personal stories of prayer, lessons from biblical figures like Samson, and the recognition that what may seem like interruptions could very well be divine opportunities. As you join us in this episode, be prepared to be inspired to approach Jesus boldly, to cherish the communion with Him, and to find solace in prayer. Finally, we close with a prayer that cements our identity as cherished children of God, loved beyond measure.
Encounter the transformative power of faith as we traverse the spiritual landscape with Jesus, whose command even the demons obey. The story of a terror-stricken man, bound by darkness and liberated by Christ, sets the stage for our latest episode, where we unearth the depths of Jesus' authority and its implications for our lives. This narrative, entwined with tales of the remarkable Power Team evangelists, brings to light the reality of supernatural forces and the sovereignty Jesus holds over them.
Step into the realm of the eternal family, where we observe how spiritual kinship blossoms within communities like Midtree, extending a hand to fellow believers through robust support and outreach. Witness Jesus' dominion over nature's chaos as we recount the stilling of a tempest on the Sea of Galilee, a powerful metaphor for the storms we face. This episode challenges us to acknowledge Jesus' lordship, inviting tranquility into the tumult of our existence, and to understand that closeness to Him does not always correlate with deep faith.
We close our contemplation by harmonizing the concepts of power and grace, as demonstrated by Jesus' interactions with the demon-possessed and his followers. Ford's personal narratives underscore the pivotal decision before us: to recoil from the intensity of Jesus' might or to draw near, embracing His strength and mercy. This discussion is an invitation to discover comfort in the might of Jesus' authority and to accept His grace as the cornerstone of hope and resilience, for believers and skeptics alike.
Embark with us on a spiritual excavation as we reexamine the Parable of the Sower. Unveiling the narrative's layered depths, we stretch the fabric of this biblical story, drawing from Luke 8:1-18 to present a cohesive message often missed when taking a mere glance. We dissect the significance of receptive hearts and the resilience required to foster enduring faith, paralleling the four soils in the parable to our own spiritual journey. As we sift through the text, the meaning unfolds, revealing how selective hearing impacts our absorption of divine wisdom and the vital need for an active, responsive approach to life's sown seeds.
Venturing further, we contemplate the everyday struggles that can distract us from spiritual growth, recognizing how easily we drift off course. With the Parable as our compass, we navigate the 'big three' impediments: external forces, internal flaws, and the world’s entanglements. The emphasis shifts towards the necessity of becoming 'good soil,' a metaphor for a heart that receives, nurtures, and bears fruit through the word of God. Our discussion anchors itself in practical advice, inspiring you to surmount distractions and cultivate a harvest from an honest, good heart.
Finally, we pivot the lens towards those casting the seeds—the sowers of the gospel—and challenge the default self-centric interpretation of this parable. Our conversation underscores the importance of sharing the word and the varied responses it may evoke. The episode concludes with a fervent call to transform from fallow ground into vibrant sowers ourselves, sharing the life-changing message of the gospel and bearing fruit that endures. Join us and step into your role as a bearer of good news, ensuring your impact resonates through eternity.
Have you ever felt a tug-of-war between the certainty of faith and the whispers of doubt? Our journey through the Christian experience isn't exempt from such struggles, as illustrated poignantly in this latest episode. We navigate the story of John the Baptist, enveloped by doubt even amidst Jesus's miracles, and grasp at the reassurance Jesus offers. Reflecting on John's uncertainty, we uncover the comforting truth that questioning is a facet of a dynamic faith, not its absence. This episode offers a beacon of hope for those wrestling with the ebbs and flows of belief, illuminating the path where faith and doubt intersect.
It's through the shared stories of our community that our own stories gain strength, particularly when skepticism clouds our faith. As we recount tales of triumph over adversity, such as a family confronting illness, we see the power of unity in faith. The episode emphasizes that the journey isn't meant to be a solo venture; it's the collective wisdom, the chorus of experiences, and the fellowship of believers that enrich and solidify our spiritual resilience. We explore how leaning into this network can dispel doubts and foster growth, showcasing that, indeed, we are stronger together.
Finally, we're drawn into the intimate tale of the woman with the alabaster flask, her actions echoing the profound nature of forgiveness and grace. As we contrast her humility with Simon the Pharisee's pride, we're invited to reflect on our own need for mercy. We close with a prayer for strength, extending an open invitation to all to find solace and peace at the feet of Christ. Whether you're a steadfast believer or someone just beginning to explore the faith, you’ll find in this episode a reminder that no one is alone on this spiritual journey.
Discover the unexpected places where faith can flourish and how humility serves as a cornerstone to a meaningful spiritual journey. We unpack the riveting tales from Luke chapter 7, where a Roman centurion's astounding faith and a widow's profound grief bring to light the compassionate might of Jesus Christ. We delve into the paradox of spiritual advantage versus genuine faith, challenging both skeptics and believers to evaluate the nature of their own beliefs and the essence of true humility.
Have you ever wondered about the strength of your own faith or how you measure up in the eyes of the divine? This episode is a heartening exploration of these questions, as we discuss the centurion's exemplary humility and faith, and the remarkable inclusion of the Gentiles into a faith that transcends cultural boundaries. We also consider the transformative nature of faith and how it can redefine our identity under Christ's authority, inviting you to join us in a moment of self-reflection and a call to live out an active faith that emulates Christ's love.
Ending on a note of encouragement, we shed light on the communal aspects of faith and the power it holds to draw us together, regardless of where we are on our spiritual paths. Whether you're a devout believer or still seeking answers, this episode offers an insightful look at the inclusivity of Christ's message and the transformative impact of faith in our lives. Join us as we offer guidance for deepening your faith and embracing the fullness of a life walked in humility before God.
As we approach the dawn of Easter Sunday, it's time for a heartfelt exploration of what this day truly means for our faith and spiritual journey. Remember the last time you tried to capture the majesty of a sunrise, only to find the image paled in comparison to the real spectacle? That's a bit like our annual celebration of the resurrection—so often we miss the full depth of this miraculous event. In today's episode, we peel back the layers of tradition and chocolate bunnies to rediscover the awe-inspiring narrative of the empty tomb and the transformative impact it has on our understanding of death and the promises of Jesus.
Have you ever found unexpected comfort in the oddest of places, like perching on a kitchen countertop during a crowded party? The serene angel at Christ's grave embodies that unconventional solace, a beacon of hope in a setting of despair. As we navigate through this episode, we'll explore intriguing instances of resurrection found in scripture, from Elijah's miraculous acts to a man's astonishing return to life by Elisha's bones. These narratives aren't just ancient texts; they're vibrant threads woven into the fabric of our faith, each one a testament to the enduring promise of life conquering death.
Wrapping up our journey, we tackle the profound themes of forgiveness and renewal that bloom from Jesus' victory over the grave. We invite you to step away from the sidelines and join us at the empty tomb. Here, amidst the echoes of fear and joy from the first witnesses, you'll find an open invitation to re-evaluate the claims of Christ, the hope encased within the resurrection, and the life-changing decision to trust in the power of the one who overcame death. Today's reflections are more than just a retelling; they're an invitation to embrace gratitude and worship for the miraculous stories of life emerging from death that continue to mold our faith and fill our hearts.
As we reflect on our spiritual journeys, let us be struck by the revolutionary teachings of Jesus about the blessedness of the poor and the woes that can entangle the rich. Through a deep exploration of Luke 6:20-30, this episode invites you on an introspective voyage to understand how material wealth can sometimes cloud our perception of true need and spiritual wealth. The contrast draws a compelling picture of a future built not on earthly riches, but on the riches of the kingdom of God. We look closely at the expectations surrounding the messianic figure during Palm Sunday and how these can shape our vision of who Jesus is and what he stands for, reminding ourselves to steer clear of idolatry and to anchor our hopes in his abiding message.
Venturing further, we encounter the delicate interplay between faith, gratitude, and the evanescent nature of worldly joys, informed by the poignant musings of C.S. Lewis. This episode is not just about contemplation but a call to radical love—one that extends even to those we may consider enemies. It's a journey through the teachings of Jesus that invites us to redefine joy and love in a way that transcends simple reciprocity. The transformative power of this love not only shapes our earthly relationships but aligns our lives with an eternal perspective, challenging us to live each day with heavenward intentions.
Wrapping up this spiritual odyssey, we discuss the importance of laying a firm foundation for our faith and actions. We delve into the influence of media and those around us, emphasizing the need for self-examination and critical thinking in shaping our worldview. We are encouraged to pair our listening with deeds, building our lives on the solid rock of Christ's unshakable grace—an anchor that holds steadfast even amidst life's fleeting moments. Join us as we seek clarity and purpose through faith and worship, reminding us that the deepest satisfaction comes from our spiritual connection with the Father, which endures beyond the transient things of this world.
Have you ever wondered how the teachings of Jesus on the Sabbath can inform our modern lives, especially when facing scrutiny and judgment? This episode peels back the layers of Luke 6, where Jesus addresses the Pharisees' criticisms with profound insights that still resonate today. We share how the Lordship of Jesus over the Sabbath extends to a broader call for mercy and kindness, one that transcends the confines of legalism. Join us as we delve into the tension between divine vastness and human narrow-mindedness, and explore how these lessons can be lived out in our own communities, particularly as we draw near to the Easter season.
Let's get personal as we navigate the challenges of being watched and judged—something Jesus knew all too well. Just as the Pharisees waited for a slip-up, we too are often observed by those anticipating our missteps. Through stories ranging from Saint Patrick's Day antics to Chick-fil-A encounters, we connect the dots between ancient narratives and our present-day experiences. Discover how Jesus's mindful response to criticism can guide us in handling our own moments under the microscope with grace and intention.
The power of community shines through in this discussion, illuminating the beauty and transformation that comes from shared experiences within the Christian fellowship. As we tackle issues like addiction and family dynamics, we uncover the necessity of vulnerability in healing and growth. Furthermore, we contemplate the real costs of discipleship and the joy that emerges when we embrace our identity as children of God through grace. So, come along on this journey of reflection, where our identity is received, not achieved, and where the true joy of living in Christ is found.
Embrace the radical teachings of Jesus on love and forgiveness with our Sunday read-through tradition, this week featuring Luke chapters 6-8. As we journey alongside our wise elders, Will, Trent and Larry, they impart their rich insights and personal experiences, bringing ancient practices into our contemporary worship. Their tales, tethered to the holy text, illustrate the challenges and beauty of Christian love, urging us to extend grace even to those who stand against us. This episode promises you a deeper understanding of Jesus's commands to love unconditionally and the transformative power these timeless lessons hold.
Witness the awe-inspiring miracles of Jesus and the profound faith that moved mountains in the lives of early believers. From the faith of a Centurion to the touching forgiveness of a sinful woman, these narratives highlight Jesus's compassion and challenge us to reflect on the strength of our own convictions. Delve into the nuanced accounts of Jesus's parables and miracles, as I discuss their relevance and the impact of actions driven by faith, underscoring the personal and societal shifts brought about by the ministry of Christ.
Finally, we'll consider what it truly means to be part of a spiritual family, redefined not by bloodline but by shared belief and dedication to God's word. Explore with us the bonds formed through sharing testimonies and the collective experience of our global Christian family. Join us as we celebrate the living God who speaks to and through us, finding unity in faith as we navigate the complexities of ministry and the genuine embrace of our true spiritual kinship.
Join us as we unpack a poignant passage from Luke 5, where Jesus' wisdom comes to life, revealing the delicate balance between times of solemnity and moments of joy. Taking cues from the parables of new garments and wineskins, we discuss how these teachings resonate in our personal spiritual journeys, inviting us to consider when to hold fast to the old and when to embrace the new.
The discussion then shifts towards a harmonious life of both revelry and reverence, where confidence and freedom guide us. We explore how our various backgrounds shape the ways we approach spiritual disciplines like fasting. The conversation highlights the importance of timing—understanding when to indulge in life's feasts and when to embrace quiet reflection. Jesus’ example instills in us the wisdom to avoid the extremes of legalism and gluttony, advocating for a life that can adapt to the rhythm of the seasons we encounter.
We close by contemplating the overarching narrative of God's timing in our lives, inspired by Jesus' dialogue with the Pharisees and Sadducees. As we align ourselves with the spiritual climate of our times, we delve into the symbolism of the bridegroom in Scripture, ultimately tying it all together with the profound act of communion. This moment of sharing bread and wine connects us to the heart of our faith and Christ's ultimate sacrifice, a poignant reminder to celebrate the transformative joy found in knowing Him. Join us on this enlightening journey, and let's toast to the discovery of balance and depth in our spiritual practices.
Have you ever witnessed a moment so profound it shifted the very foundations of your faith? Our latest episode is steeped in the transformative stories from Jesus' teaching and healing ministry, starting with the awe-inspiring narrative of Jesus healing a paralyzed man, a tale that resonates with the power of conviction and community. Through this scriptural journey, we unpack the implications of spiritual teaching on our lives, and remind ourselves of the importance of personal devotion amidst our public endeavors.
Let's talk about what it means to be a friend in faith. This conversation isn't just for Sunday regulars; it's for anyone who's ever yearned to deepen their church experience and forge connections that go beyond the superficial. As we unravel the tale of the paralytic and his friends, we're inspired to reflect on the essence of true friendship—those who hold the rope when we're in need—and the collective faith that can catalyze real change. It's about being present, heart and soul, within our spiritual communities and bringing that transformative faith into the world around us.
Wrapping up, we confront the profound truth that healing, whether of the body or the spirit, begins with an open heart towards Jesus. Recognizing our imperfections is not a weakness but a path to greater wholeness. The episode closes with a heartfelt invitation to all: whether you're grappling with visible challenges or struggling internally, approach the Great Physician. This isn't just a conversation; it's a call to action for anyone ready to embrace a journey of healing, forgiveness, and true companionship in Christ. Join us as we explore the boundless grace that awaits the repentant heart.
Have you ever been caught off guard by life's unexpected turns, or found yourself questioning the greater purpose behind challenging commands? Thomas Grocki shares an exploration of biblical narratives that unearth the counterintuitive and often inconvenient ways God works in our lives, paralleling stories like Jesus teaching by the Sea of Galilee and His encounters with both a leper and the fisherman, with our own moments of unforeseen breakthroughs. Together, we traverse the line between faith and the practicalities of daily living, offering insights into how embracing the teachings from the Gospels and Old Testament can lead to transformative experiences.
Journey with us to the shores of Galilee, where the backdrop of Jesus' miracles comes to life through personal stories from our adventure in Israel. We discuss how God's unconventional ways, such as the building of Noah's Ark and the Battle of Jericho, challenge our understanding of obedience and purpose. By recounting Peter's miraculous catch and the command to cast nets into the deep, we invite listeners to reflect on their own willingness to follow seemingly futile directions in anticipation of a greater reward. These discussions not only highlight the biblical importance of place and action, but also connect them to the essence of ministry and faith in our contemporary world.
As we wrap up this episode, we extend a heartfelt invitation to all—believers and skeptics alike—to consider the paradox of the cross and the profound message it carries for salvation. Thomas' insights into the cross's transformative power encourage us to ponder on our readiness to step out of our comfort zones, to contemplate a faith that guides us beyond the predictable and into the realm of divine possibility. We hope you leave this conversation not only with a renewed sense of Jesus' majesty but also with an ignited desire to discover the person you were created to be. Join us on this thought-provoking journey of faith, obedience, and the unexpected paths to personal transformation.
If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE
If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE
If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE
If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE
If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE
If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Youth Pastor Thomas Grocki continues our series in the Minor Prophets unpacking Micah. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Guest teacher Jeff Medders continues our series in the Minor Prophets unpacking Song of Songs. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
God is a person to know; not an equation to be solved. This sermon was recorded on October 8, 2023. The sermon begins at 4:30. Before that, learn about 127, the foster and adoption ministry of Mid Tree Church from Ashley Johnston. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
The raging flood of God’s wrath is, at the cross, turned into a stream of life and grace. This sermon was recorded on October 1, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
In all our grumblings and arguments, God always gets the final word. Fortunately, his final word is one of grace. This sermon was recorded on September 24, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
This sermon was recorded on September 3, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
This sermon was recorded on August 13, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
This sermon was recorded on July 9, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Your glory...knowing that you can lose everything BUT JESUS and not lose anything. This sermon was recorded on July 2, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Salvation is more relationship than transaction. How do you view it? This sermon was recorded on June 25, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We are saved by faith (belief) alone, but a faith that saves is never alone. This sermon was recorded on June 18, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Finish the line: "I do not cease to give thanks for y'all asking that God would increase your ________________". This sermon was recorded on June 11, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Encountering mystery should be a cue to start worshipping | Tony Merida.
This is the first sermon from Pastor Will Hawk in our series in Ephesians, recorded on june 4, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
This is the first part in our series in Ephesians, recorded on May 28, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Good news and answered prayers necessitate worship and blessing. This sermon, which concludes our series in the book of Ruth, was recorded on May 21, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Is there even one place in your life that you are tempted to believe that God’s love for you has ceased or ended? This sermon was recorded on May 14, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
In Ruth chapter one, we learned that the Love of God enters our poverty. In Ruth chapter two, we learn that He Oversees our future. This is the 2nd week in our series in the book of Ruth. This sermon was recorded on May 7, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
For those trusting in God poverty is real and temporary. For those trusting in "self" poverty is real and eternal. This is the first in our new series on the book of Ruth. This sermon was recorded on April 30, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Abiding is not the goal in itself. Closeness with Jesus naturally produces something. This sermon was recorded on April 16, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
To the people who knew and loved Jesus most the concept of the resurrection was: 1. Confusing, 2. Unbelievable and 3. Not quite enough. This sermon was recorded on April 2, 2023, the first Easter in our new building in Cataula, Ga. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Perseverance is as much about a lack of good things as it is about an abundance of good things. This sermon was recorded on April 2, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
This sermon was recorded on March 26, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Christians dying wrongly is not as big of a deal as God being belittled. This sermon was recorded on March 19, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Our youth pastor, Thomas Grocki, walks us through Acts 11. This sermon was recorded on March 10, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Each of us are far too low to be worshipped; but far too high to be insignificant. This sermon was recorded on March 5, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Would it have been better for Tabitha to have remained dead to this world and alive to Christ? This sermon was recorded on February 26, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
When we walk into storms of suffering: God establishes a family, we credibly display God's power, and God strengthens us for service. This sermon was recorded on February 19, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
God's plan is perfect and precise but rarely presented beforehand. This sermon was recorded on February 5, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Why is singleness declared not good in the garden but better than in the New Testament? This sermon was recorded on February 12, 2023. Before the sermon, listen to Zach Howard who gave his testimony. Sermon begins at 7:12. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Can you truly be a believer and the Holy Spirit not be in your life? This sermon was recorded on January 29, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
Whatever holds your attention holds you. This sermon was recorded on January 22, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
How good it is to read through Scripture in worship together! Periodically in a series, the leaders of Mid Tree read through & briefly discuss the next passages. Join Pastor Will Hawk, Elders Jimmy Brooks, Greg Dispain, Trent Wilbanks, and youth pastor Thomas Grocki as they read and discuss Acts 8–10. This sermon was recorded on January 15, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
We are starting part 2 of our sermon series in the Book of Acts. What would it take for you to make the mission of Jesus your mission? This sermon was recorded on January 8, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
In this standalone message to bring in the new year, Larry Young, one of our elders, teaches us about the spiritual discipline of prayer. Jesus didn’t pray as an act to convince people that he was righteous, but his prayers reveal his righteousness because they displayed his absolute dependence and submission to the Father. This sermon was recorded on January 1, 2023. If you want to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
What claims does the Bible make that you struggle with? This sermon was recorded on December 18, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
God's not moving slowly (as you may think). God INTENTIONALLY moves PATIENTLY for us. This sermon was recorded on December 4, 2022, as part of our Advent series. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
When we see hurry in the Christmas story, it is always heading toward the same thing... worship. This is the beginning of our Advent series, recorded on November 27, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.
In this standalone message, Thomas Grocki, who leads our Youth ministry unpacks Ruth 1-2. This sermon was recorded on November 20, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us: 812-MID-TREE.
Like his Savior, Stephen was filled with godliness, spoke from stored-up wisdom, knew how to handle fools and injustice, valued all the scriptures, and suffered for others. This sermon was recorded on November 13, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us: 812-MID-TREE.
Many churches misinterpret what the presence of Difficulty & Drama actually means. This sermon was recorded on November 6, 2022. First, please listen as Carmen Overton shares about 127: The Family Advocacy Ministry of Mid Tree Church. Pastor Will's message begins at the 8:05 mark. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us: 812-MID-TREE.
Sovereignty makes suffering serve a purpose. This sermon was recorded on October 30, 2022. First, please listen as Marc and Brianne Womack share about Fields of Grace Flower Farm. Pastor Will's message begins at the 6:25 mark. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website midtreechurch.com or text us: 812-MID-TREE. To learn more about Fields of Grace Flower Farm, go HERE
It was a delight for God's people to be amidst other peoples. This sermon was recorded on October 23, 2022. Please listen as Jimmy Brooks interviews Larry Young, one of our elder candidates at the beginning of our time together. Pastor Will's message begins at the 10:45 mark. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us: 812-MID-TREE.
Good theology warms the heart rather than sterilizes it. This sermon was recorded on October 9, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us: 812-MID-TREE.
Be a commoner and come to Jesus. This sermon was recorded on October 2, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us: 812-MID-TREE.
Selfishness & self focus always STEAL away the gift of shared joy. This standalone sermon was recorded on September 25, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us: 812-MID-TREE.
A disciple of Jesus forgets; but they make long-term progress to remember. They want to remember. They fight to remember. They learn to discipline themselves to remember. Chad Rosell unpacks Deuteronomy 8 in this message. This sermon was recorded on September 18, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Sept. 11 is a day of memorial, remembering the events and lives lost. Pearl Harbor Day is a similar day of remembrance. Remembering those days does not; however, make us a participant in those events. The Lord’s Supper is more than a memorial; it is meant to be a participatory sacrament, and this sermon aims to aid us in a greater heartfelt experience of the Lord’s Supper. This sermon was recorded on September 11, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Taking a break from our series in Acts, Pastor Will Hawk unpacks 7 questions concerning the Holy Spirit. This sermon was recorded on August 28, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Are you present when you're present? This sermon was recorded on August 14, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
The good new is MORE good when the bad news is MORE bad. This sermon was recorded on August 7, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
This sermon was recorded on July 31, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
This sermon was recorded on July 24, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Waiting tends to lead us to, " Why am I here?" Waiting should lead us to "Where are YOU leading? This sermon was recorded on July 17, 2022; the start of a new sermon series in the book of Acts. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
At the beginning of a sermon series, it has become our rhythm to read through the text and discuss. Pastor Will Hawk, Elders Jimmy Brooks and Ryne Stokes, and Thomas Grocki who leads our youth ministry dive into Acts chapters 1-3. This was recorded on July 10, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
In the life of a believer: Jesus is the subject of every scene, even if he isn't in the scene. This sermon was recorded on July 3, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Where in your walk with Jesus are you being timid where God desires boldness? This sermon was recorded on June 5, 2022. This is part of a new series covering 7 areas: Prayer, Growth & Sanctification, Discipleship, Evangelism, Corporate Worship, Membership & Money, and Leadership. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
What you win people with, is what you win them to. This sermon was recorded on May 29, 2022. This is part of a new series covering 7 areas: Prayer, Growth & Sanctification, Discipleship, Evangelism, Corporate Worship, Membership & Money, and Leadership. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Musical Worship is take home theology. This sermon was recorded on May 22, 2022. This is part of a new series covering 7 areas: Prayer, Growth & Sanctification, Discipleship, Evangelism, Corporate Worship, Membership & Money, and Leadership. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Success is defined by stewardship, not size. This is part of a new series covering 7 areas: Prayer, Growth & Sanctification, Discipleship, Evangelism, Corporate Worship, Membership & Money, and Leadership. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Of all the priorities that a mom must navigate, what does the Gospel show to be of greatest importance? This sermon was recorded on May 8, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Your value is not in what you make or create, but rather based on the one who made and created you. This sermon was recorded on May 1, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
During Easter, we had the great privilege of hearing the testimony of God's grace in the lives of Madison Brennan and Taylor Murrell. Listen and be encouraged. NOTE: Madison's testimony is read by Brooks Edwards. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Who buried Jesus? This sermon was recorded on April 17, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
This is the beginning of a new series covering 7 areas: Prayer, Growth & Sanctification, Discipleship, Evangelism, Corporate Worship, Membership & Money, and Leadership. PRAYER | Prayer is NEVER defined in Scripture. Prayer is however "patterned" in Scripture. This sermon was recorded on April 10, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Your body was engineered by God to be a "glory bringing" tool. This sermon was recorded on April 3, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
The life you live today will become the stories you tell tomorrow. This sermon was recorded on March 20, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Confident and restful people naturally become loving people. This sermon was recorded on March 13, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Wisdom's presence in your life will generate uniquely good things. This sermon was recorded on March 6, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
God's heart for you is to know Him and trust Him. This sermon was recorded on February 27, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Attentive ears and an inclined heart will find the path of the Lord. This sermon was recorded on February 20, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
When difficulty or decision is present: there is ALWAYS a godly option. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Wise instruction, when received, is beautiful. This sermon was recorded on February 6, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Wisdom isn't assumed, but available. This sermon was recorded on January 30, 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Mid Tree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE
Wisdom is something that we all want. As we began our study in Proverbs, Pastor Will Hawk, Jimmy Brooks, Thomas Grocki, and Greg Dispain read and unpacked Proverbs 1-4. Wrapping up in part four, listen to Proverbs 4, and Thomas Grocki. This was recorded on January 23, 2022. For ways to connect with us go HERE
Proverbs is less about promises and more about probabilities. Wisdom is a skillset. Always be remembering. As we began our study in Proverbs, Pastor Will Hawk, Jimmy Brooks, Thomas Grocki, and Greg Dispain read and unpacked Proverbs 1-4. In part three, listen to Proverbs 3, and Greg Dispain. This was recorded on January 23, 2022. For ways to connect with us go HERE
It always begins with WORDS that lead to THOUGHTS that end in ACTIONS and their consequences. As we began our study in Proverbs, Pastor Will Hawk, Jimmy Brooks, Thomas Grocki, and Greg Dispain read and unpacked Proverbs 1-4. In part two, listen to Proverbs 2, and Pastor Will. This was recorded on January 23, 2022. For ways to connect with us go HERE
Season your pot. Follow the directions. Don't take shortcuts. As we began our study in Proverbs, Pastor Will Hawk, Jimmy Brooks, Thomas Grocki, and Greg Dispain read and unpacked Proverbs 1-4. In part one, listen to Pastor Will's intro, Proverbs 1, and Jimmy Brooks. This was recorded on January 23, 2022. For ways to connect with us go HERE
Many seek knowledge without the willingness to apply it. This sermon was recorded on January 16, 2022. If you would like more information about Mid Tree Church or would like to connect with us, go HERE.
Do you believe God really wants the best for you? This sermon was recorded on January 9, 2022. If you would like more information about Mid Tree Church, or would like to connect with us, go HERE
The Christian life isn’t about our own resolutions or a resolve of shear force and grit and determination to be a better person, but it's about God’s reconciling work that makes a new person in Christ. This sermon was recorded on January 2, 2022. If you would like more information about Mid Tree Church or would like to connect with us, go HERE
God draws people. Some of us were in the right environment. For others, God made the environment right. This sermon was recorded on December 19, 2021. If you would like more information about Mid Tree Church, or would like to connect with us, go HERE
God makes the impossible path possible to increase worship. This sermon was recorded on December 12, 2021. If you would like more info about Mid Tree Church or would like to connect with us, go HERE
The Old Testament is full of open-ended promises, fade to black realities, and generations of cliffhangers until Jesus. This sermon was recorded on December 5, 2021. If you would like more info about Mid Tree Church or would like to connect with us go HERE
Avoid The Trap. Remember Our Destination. This is the last message in our series on 1st Timothy. This sermon was recorded on November 28, 2021. If would like info about Mid Tree Church or would like to connect, go HERE
When we allow our relationship with the Father to propel us through life, we FLEE things that hinder our relationship, we FOLLOW things that foster that relationship, and we FIGHT for things that matter to that relationship. This sermon was recorded on November 21, 2021. If you would like to connect with us or find more information about Mid Tree Church, go HERE
All People Wait. Christians should be good at it. This sermon was recorded on November 14, 2021. For more info or ways to connect with us, go HERE.
God desires for our social barriers to be laid down to create gospel bridges: So that God's name will be known, So that God's word will be heard, and So that God's people will be seen. This sermon was recorded on November 7, 2021. If you would like to learn more or connect with us, go HERE.
If God was willing to give you that which he holds most valuable (his own son) what would he withhold from you? This sermon was recorded on October 31, 2021. If you would like to connect with us or find more information about Mid Tree Church go HERE
If you want enduring Elders for an enduring church, be sheep that lovingly follow shepherds that lovingly lead. This sermon was recorded on October 24, 2021. For more ways to connect with us, go HERE
A Biblical family has a rhythm of honor and discipleship. This sermon was recorded on October 17, 2021. If you would like to access the message notes and connect with us, go HERE.
Devotion is contagious. What are you spreading? This sermon was recorded on October 10, 2021. If you would like to connect with us, follow us on social media or visit our website here
Have nothing to do with sin. Have everything to do with Jesus. Have something to do with everything else. This sermon was recorded on October 3, 2021.
If you desire to increase enjoyment & prevent disaster, then you must: Give God's gifts their PROPER PLACE and Jesus the PROPER WEIGHT. This sermon was recorded on September 26, 2021. Connect with us on social media or go to our website: midtreechurch.com
We may not fully comprehend the the completed tapestry of our lives until we are united with Him and experience His glory. This sermon was recorded on September 19, 2021. For more resources and ways to connect, go HERE
God's great mystery has been revealed. Will it be received? This sermon was recorded on September 12, 2021. If you like to connect with us, go HERE. Behold | Believe | Become
Elders are called by God, display the character of Christ, and competently guard the Gospel of Christ. This sermon was recorded on September 5, 2021. Be aware that the audio quality is lower this week. If you would like the full sermon notes or ways to connect, go HERE.
Leading servants occurs naturally in a group of Spirit-led believers. This sermon was recorded on August 29, 2021.
When reading scripture, never allow yourself to consider personal consequences until you have understood the content, and see the heart of Christ. Pastor Will Hawk unpacks the role of women in the household of God. This sermon was recorded on August 22, 2021.
God achieves his ULTIMATE desires BUT God does not desire all things EQUALLY. This sermon was recorded on August 15, 2021. If you would like to connect with us, you can go here or go here to find more resources related to this message.
Upon a gospel foundation prayer is of greatest importance. This sermon was recorded on August 8, 2021. If you would like more information about Mid Tree Church, connect with us HERE
At the cross unlikely candidates RECEIVE unparalleled mercy. This sermon was recorded on August 1, 2021. If you would like to connect with us, find us on social media, or go to our connect page on our website HERE
Do I still have to do what it says in Deuteronomy? This sermon was recorded on July 25, 2021. If you would like to connect with us, find us on social media, or go to our connect page on our website HERE
Christians are chosen out of suffering and into a repentance that causes them to go and make disciples by grace, for peace, and upon God's mercy. This sermon was recorded on July 18, 2021. If you would like to know more about Mid Tree, go to our website midtreechurch.com or connect with us on social media.
What a blessing to be able to read through in one sitting the 1st letter to Timothy. This reading was led by Pastor Will Hawk and elders Jimmy Brooks and Ryne Stokes. This and the roundtable discussion was recorded on July 11, 2021.
Is your life one of attempting, convincing, or receiving? This message was recorded on July 4, 2021. If you would like to connect with us, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or go to our website midtreechurch.com.
In this standalone message recorded on 6.27.2021, Pastor Will Hawk unpacks 2 Timothy 4:1-19. If would like to connect with Mid Tree Church, find us on Facebook, Instagram, or visit our website: midtreechurch.com.
God delights in using unlikely servants to accomplish kingdom work. The power is in the message, not the messenger. Greg Dispain is a member of Mid Tree Church. Listen as he guides us through Amos 8:1-12. This sermon was recorded on June 6, 2021. For more information, find us on Facebook, Instagram or visit our website: Midtreechurch.com .
Is your Christianity compelling? This sermon concludes our series in the Gospel of Mark, recorded on May 30, 2021. For more information, find us on Facebook, Instagram, or visit our website: midtreechurch.com
Fight sin wisely: not just to remove guilt or bypass consequences, but for the sake of joy. This sermon was recorded on May 23, 2021. For more information, find us on Facebook or Instagram (@midtreechurch) or go to our website: midtreechurch.com
God displays the divinity of Jesus, so that when He lovingly walks us through incredibly deep difficulty, we can know that we are safe in the presence of God regardless of the outward circumstances. This sermon was recorded on May 16, 2021. For more information, find us on Facebook or go to our website: midtreechurch.com
For any who seek a family through Jesus--God provides: a vastly wide, utterly deep, overwhelmingly relatable, realistic yet joyful, forever family. This sermon was recorded on May 9, 2021. For information, find us on Facebook or visit our website: midtreechurch.com
The good news of the Gospel is that God makes bad soil good and fruitful. This sermon was recorded on May 2, 2021. For more information, look us up on Facebook and Instagram or go to our website midtreechurch.com
Don't underestimate your need. Don't underestimate Jesus. This sermon was recorded on April 25, 2021. If you would like to learn more about us, follow us on Facebook or Instagram or go to our website midtreechurch.com
Our greatest witness is a transformed life. This sermon was recorded on April 18, 2021. For more information, find us on Instagram and Facebook, or go to our website midtreechurch.com
God allows conflict and by equipping us to withstand it, He shows us His goodness and love. This sermon was recorded on April 11, 2021. For more information, go to our website, midtreechurch.com
God will call us further than we want so that He can give us more than what we are asking. This sermon was recorded on Easter Sunday April 4, 2021. For more information about us, visit our website or find us on Social Media #midtreechurch
According to God's Word, the goal of the church and its members is Authority Rich Teaching. This sermon was recorded on March 28, 2021. For more information about our church, search "Mid Tree Church" on Facebook and Instagram or go to our website: midtreechurch.com
Trusting Jesus caused ordinary people living ordinary lives to become extraordinary. This is part of the beginning of our series in the Gospel of Mark, recorded on March 21, 2021. For more information, visit midtreechurch.com
With every story you tell, you add a thread to the net of salvation that you are called to cast. We begin our new series in the Gospel of Mark by hearing from Rob and Carrie Strickland. Rob is the pastor of Highland Community Church in Columbus, Ga. He and his wife Carrie lead the ministries of Truth Spring in the North Highlands neighborhood. You can learn more at www.truthspring.org . This was recorded on March 21, 2021.
The example of the New Testament is: faithful churches need faithful churches,
like faithful Christians need faith for Christians. Don’t give up on God, don’t give up on the gospel, and don’t give up on each other. This sermon was recorded on March 7, 2021.
We resist the enemy by knowing our Gospel is sure, our enemy is desperate, our brothers are understanding, our suffering is limited and Jesus wins. This sermon was recorded on February 28, 2021.
The clothing of humility on a believer unique identifies, assists in weathering hardships and attracts God's attention and care. This sermon was recorded on February 21, 2021.
Your value and identity has nothing to do with romantic love, and everything to do with selfless love. This sermon was recorded on February 14, 2021.
This week, Pastor Will Hawk resumes our series from the letter of 1st Peter (5:1-5). Gain an audience on the basis of Christ's work. Gain an audience for the purpose of Christ's glory. This sermon was recorded February 7, 2021.
Taking a pause from our series in 1st Peter, Larry Young, who leads our Missional Community Group Leader Development, teaches us from the Letter of Ephesians. This sermon was recorded on January 31, 2021.
We take a break from our series in 1st Peter to hear from Reuben Moyana. He is an Elder from our sending church, Crosspointe Church in Columbus, Ga. The text is 1st Thessalonians 1. A Healthy Church is always striving to be Gospel-centered, Word-driven and Mission-minded to the Glory of God. This sermon was recorded on January 24, 2021.
Beloved, suffering is common. Your response should not not be. This sermon was recorded on January 17, 2021.
All of God's gifts are incredibly valuable. Risk is expected. Faithfulness is everything. This sermon was recorded on January 10, 2021.
We dive back into 1st Peter after a break for Advent. Simple Instructions from Peter: Love one another, show hospitality and serve one another. This sermon was recorded on January 3, 2021.
"Salvation is God's good gift to men, and all the rest arises from this basic truth." -L.L. Morris // This is the last sermon in our series Christmasology. It was recorded on December 27, 2020.
Jesus is more like us in our weakness than we can imagine BUT Jesus is nothing like us in his response to that weakness. This sermon was recorded on December 20, 2020.
Angels are God's servants who display that heaven has come. This sermon was recorded on December 13, 2020.
God makes promises that seem "un-keepable" to build a people who are relentlessly faithful. This is the beginning of our 4-week Advent series, recorded on December 6, 2020.
The Gospel is preached for a life with ETERNALLY lasting happiness, peace and contentment. This sermon was recorded on November 30, 2020.
Every fear you have loses its legitimacy in Christ. This sermon was recorded on November 22, 2020.
Biblical meekness is both HOLY and STRATEGIC. This sermon was recorded on November 15, 2020. We apologize for the audio quality.
When we suffer LIKE Jesus, FOR Jesus, it is a gracious thing in the sight of God. This sermon was pre-recorded for our Sunday gathering on November 1, 2020.
All rule and authority that exists, is intended to be an extension of God's kindly and just rule. But what happens when governments and rulers are not an extension of God's just rule? Listen as Pastor Will Hawk unpacks 1 Peter 2:13-17. This sermon was recorded for our Sunday gathering on October 25, 2020.
This sermon is part 2 in our sermon series connected to the church capital campaign. This sermon was recorded on October 18, 2020.
How different do I need to be? Can I be too different? How do good intentions and well meaning people miss the mark? Why is my sin nature always hungry? This sermon was recorded for October 11, 2020.
If a child can find value in a chunk of quartz, an oddly shaped piece of sandstone or a would-be dinosaur bone of discarded rotisserie chicken, then certainly Christ can find value in the only piece of His creation made in His own image. This sermon was recorded on October 4, 2020.
How will you be a part of the next chapter God is writing? This sermon was recorded on September 27, 2020.
When we fully experience the cross, we experience overwhelming gratitude. This sermon was recorded on September 13, 2020.
Sin saturated realities happen every day but one day every day will be saturated by permanent holiness and happiness. This sermon was recorded on September 20, 2020.
Christian suffering is normal, intentional and never accidental. Even so, suffering is a worthwhile investment. This sermon was recorded on September 6, 2020.
A new identity brings a new calling but a new calling brings new conflicts. Listen as Pastor Will Hawk begins a new teaching series from 1st Peter. This sermon was recorded on August 30, 2020.
Jesus sees people's needs and His desire is for us to do the same. This sermon was recorded on August 23, 2020.
God's expectations would be demoralizing if not for this one fact: We have a good shepherd, whose presence provides optimism amidst oppression. This sermon was recorded on August 16, 2020.
As we submit to the Lordship of Jesus, we increasingly see: our comfort becoming inward, our time being spent upward and our focus becoming outward. This sermon was recorded on August 9, 2020.
Through Jesus, we actually become the dwelling place of God. Listen and be encouraged as Pastor Will Hawk concludes our series in the book of Exodus. This sermon was recorded on August 2, 2020.
Resting in God's Grace puts us in right position with God, fills us with the right heart toward God and empowers us to do the works of God. This sermon was recorded on July 26, 2020.
God's loving discipline should produce a greater desire for nearness with Him. And as we desire to know God in this ever deepening way, we find instruction for living this out everyday. This sermon was recorded on July 19, 2020.
Our desire for control is our biggest idol. Our faith in God's control is our biggest ministry. This sermon was recorded on July 12, 2020.
As we continue in our sermon series in Exodus, we focus on the Tabernacle: not an efficient build but an educational one. God did not want His people to be satisfied, not fully. He consistently wanted them to hunger for more. This sermon was recorded on July 5, 2020.
Jesus carried our name to the Father, so that we could carry His name to the world. This sermon was recorded on June 28, 2020.
We choose to live as disciples of Christ and follow His example, not because it is easy, but because it is hard. This sermon was recorded on June 12, 2020.
At all times and in all places: only one thing truly lasts. This sermon was recorded on June 7, 2020.
A life with Jesus is a life of grace from beginning to end. This sermon was recorded on May 31, 2020.
What Paul made so strong was that he didn't avoid his weaknesses or explain them away, but He knew those weak spots were the quickest path to God and His Spirit's power. Listen as Pastor Will Hawk continues our series in the book of Philippians. This sermon was recorded on May 24, 2020.
Continuing in our series through Philippians, Pastor Will Hawk guides us through sure-fire ways that only increase our anxiety. He teaches us the alternative: a God-sized peace that God gives us when He rescues us from our sin. This sermon was recorded on May 17, 2020.
Having a method, a mindset and a mood, Christians are called to reveal the issue, rejoice in the Lord and make reasonableness known. This sermon was recorded on May 10, 2020.
See yourself having a single purpose, seeking the prize which is secure in Jesus. This sermon was recorded on May, 3, 2020.
In responding to the Gospel, we lose nothing of value and gain everything valuable. This sermon was recorded on April 26, 2020.
Sons and daughters of God are not driven by a selfish agenda, but a humble concern for others. Listen as Pastor Will Hawk continues in our sermon series from Philippians. This sermon was recorded on April 19, 2020.
The resurrection of Jesus from the dirt is the visible display of God reaching into the dirt to save those created from out of the dirt. For Easter Sunday, Pastor Will Hawk continues our study in Philippians. This sermon was recorded on April 12, 2020.
Continuing our series in Philippians, Pastor Will Hawk teaches us on a life worthy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ (Phil. 1:27). A Worthwhile Life Has INTEGRITY. A Worthwhile Life Has UNITY. A Worthwhile Life Has AGONY. A Worthwhile Life Is ETERNALLY OPTIMISTIC. This sermon was recorded on April 5, 2020.
Continuing our series in Philippians, Pastor Will Hawk teaches us that faithful Christians have lofty expectations in dire circumstances, that the message of the Gospel is always more important than the messenger and God’s design in every hardship is never less than Jesus being glorified and the Gospel advancing. This sermon was recorded on March 29, 2020.
Taking a break from our series in Exodus, Pastor Will Hawk guides us through Philippians 1:1-11. He teaches us from God's Word that a peace that is truly worth something truly costs something, that the Gospel causes people in need to think of the needs of others and that God finishes what He starts and nothing can stop that. This sermon was recorded on March 22, 2020.
The presence of the Holy Spirit does not break our need for Gospel Community. It actually builds that very thing. This sermon was recorded on March 15, 2020.
Continuing our series in Exodus, Pastor Will Hawk teaches that we should enter into God’s presence with a unique mixture of humility, thankfulness and joy and through the Gospel, we become the setting of God’s love. This sermon was recorded on March 8, 2020.
As we continue our series in Exodus, Pastor Will Hawk shows us that God’s justice and mercy strengthen one another, that terror is an appropriate response to God’s justice but praise is the appropriate response to God’s mercy. We should praise God for His mercy in delayed Judgement, a better offer in Christ and the perfection of tomorrow’s home. This sermon was recorded on March 1, 2020.
Our relationship with money is like a spiritual EKG. Rich or Poor, it can’t make you alive, but it’ll tell you if you’re dead. Even in a world where there will always be poor and rich, a spirit filled believer will display contentment rather than comparison. Our radical love and generosity flows from and points to Jesus. This sermon was recorded on February 23, 2020.
Moving to a new phase in our series on Exodus, Pastor Will Hawk teaches that scripture opposes slavery in 3 ways: Where slavery destroys, God preserves. Where slavery exploits, God protects. Where slavery perverts justice, God provides justice. This sermon was recorded on February 16, 2020.
In Jesus the weight of sin becomes a ballast, which frees us to love God and others with Joy and freedom. Pastor Will Hawk continues our series from the book of Exodus. This sermon was recorded on February 9, 2020.
Before his family's move to metro Atlanta, Kwame Agyemang, a member of our leadership team, delivered his last sermon to Mid Tree Church. In this message, Kwame shows us that in order to see God correctly and receive true strength, we must see our need for a Savior, see that good works and our bad works will not give us Jesus and see Jesus as the true King that He is. This sermon was recorded on January 26, 2020.
The early church was devoted to the apostles teaching, the fellowship, the breaking of bread and prayer. This produced generosity and favor with all the people. Building off Pastor Will's sermon on church leadership from last week, Jimmy Brooks, a member of our leadership team, teaches us from Acts 2 on who we called to be as the Church. This sermon was recorded on January 19, 2020.
Teaching through the qualifications of healthy church leadership, Pastor Will shows us that the Bible expects elders to lead, feed, protect and know...using an multi tool to illustrate. This sermon was recorded on January 12, 2020.
Starting back our series in the Book of Exodus, Pastor Will Hawk unpacks the beginning of The Ten Commandments in Exodus 20 through the lens of marriage. This sermon was recorded on January 5, 2020.
In this standalone message ushering in the new year, Pastor Will Hawk teaches us how God's Word is Trustworthy, Understandable and True. If you would like to follow along with Pastor Will's notes, please follow the link below. This sermon was recorded on December 29, 2019.
SERMON NOTES LINK
Concluding our Advent series, Pastor Will takes us through Psalm 98. Why was the gift of salvation given to some in the presence of others? Have you lost some of your joy through acclimating to God’s House? When you think about God as judge do you worry or worship? This sermon was recorded on December 22, 2019.
Continuing our Advent series, Pastor Will takes us through Luke 1:76-79. Jesus displays the mercy of God. Jesus comes to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death. Jesus guides our feet into the way of peace. This sermon was recorded on December 15, 2019.
Continuing our Advent series, Pastor Will takes us through parts of Luke chapters 1-2 and the Carol "In the Bleak Midwinter" by Christina Rosetti. When God’s voice stills, do His hands still move? When it seems like God is distant or quiet, He’s still at work! Will I believe, when God’s will doesn’t line up with logic? What does your waiting heart look like? Will I serve those who are waiting....Even as I too am waiting? This sermon was recorded on December 8, 2019.
Hark the herald Angels sing, glory to the newborn King. The Angels break the silence with the Glory of God, a message of peace and a promise of reconciliation. This sermon was recorded on December 1, 2019.
Who are we? A people chosen by God. Where are we? In a fallen world with fallen situations. What has God done? He has made us alive to a living hope, so that every good and bad thing will be used to make us look more like Christ. There's no escaping his goodness toward us. This sermon was recorded on November 24, 2019.
Does weakness and brokenness push us from God or draw us near? It’s both. Should I fear God or run into his arms? It’s both. Are we a people in need of God, Or those who take God to a needy people? It’s both. This sermon was recorded on November 17, 2019.
This is why Jesus came into the greatest STORY ever told. This is an unbelievable MEAL with God. Jesus invites us to that which only He could make possible. This is the ADVICE of scripture- BELIEVE that you would find direction, endurance and peace. This sermon was recorded on November 10, 2019.
Do not be discouraged at the constant struggle between good and evil. Rather be encouraged that not only will God win the war, but that he is constantly winning battles. God’s desire is for us to be active participants in his work of salvation. God provides victory to all under his banner. He provides victory through his son and proclaims victory through his people.
This sermon was recorded on November 3, 2019. Please forgive the audio quality of this week's sermon.
God will provide through His Son. God provides through the miraculous and the mundane. Believing in this provides God Glory and us rest. This sermon was recorded on October 27, 2019. This was the last service at The Farm House.
OUR COMPLAINTS DON’T CHANGE GOD BUT THEY DO CHANGE US. Our complaints cost us our witness. Our complaints cost us tenderness. Our complaints ACTUALLY cost us contentment. If grumbling is toxic, then the Gospel is the tonic.
This sermon was recorded on October 20, 2019.
Worship is centered on God’s glory. Worship is a natural overflow of grace received. Worship is corporate AND personal. Worship is eternal. But HOW do we worship? We worship through proclamation, reflection, meditation and expectation. This sermon was recorded on October 13, 2019.
THE LORD SAVES - For the glory of His name not yours. THE LORD FIGHTS - For the glory of His name not yours. THE LORD IS PRESENT - For the glory of His name not yours. This sermon was recorded on October 6, 2019.
For the believer: (1) For us to lead, we follow. (2) When in doubt, we walk; when attacked, we stand. (3) BECAUSE we are never alone. This sermon was recorded on September 29, 2019.
GOD WANTS US TO REMEMBER WHAT HE DID FOR US: the value of the rescuer and the value of the rescued. GOD REMINDS US THAT WE ALL SEEM TO HAVE SHORT TERM MEMORY AND AGGRESSIVE APPETITES FOR WHATEVER IS: next, better, new and what feels good. LASTLY, WE SHOULD HELP AND BE HELPED BY OTHERS IN THIS PROCESS. This sermon was recorded on September 22, 2019.
MAIN POINTS:
Passover Did 3 Things:
1. Delivered
2. Displayed
3. Defined
Faith is the invisible trench that when filled with obedience becomes visible. ONE Line. ONE Home. One Law.
This sermon was recorded on September 15, 2019.
Main Points:
1. Do not compete with Jesus
2. Do not be lazy with God's grace
3. Avoid autopilot Christianity
This sermon was recorded on September 9, 2019.
Main Points:
1. Be aware.
2. Fight and live like a justified person in Christ.
3. Do not nullify the grace of God that’s in you and for you.
This sermon was recorded on September 1, 2019.
Main Points:
1. God reveals Himself to build our trust
2. God supplies all the need of those who trust Him
3. God is vigilant over those who trust Him as encouragement and example
This sermon was recorded on August 25, 2019.
Main Points:1. Making a point to remember God honors Him.
2. The exodus does not lead to freedom.
3. The proof of faith is faithfulness.
This sermon was recorded on August, 18, 2019, the one-year anniversary of Mid Tree Church.
Atonement will:
Require perfection
Require closeness
Require distinction
Be memorable
3 Questions:
I never want to forget the time…
I never want to forget that God…
I’m looking forward to…
"The blood is daubed around the doors not because God can’t tell who is inside the house, but because he can! He knows there are sinners inside."-Tim Chester
"You stand before God as if you were Christ, because Christ stood before God as if He were you."-Charles Spurgeon
This sermon was recorded on August 11, 2019.
MAIN POINTS:
1. The righteousness of God creates space for the merciful love of God.
2. Before a righteous God Jesus is the only worthy advocate.
3. Any “assurance” other than Christ will be lacking.
This sermon was recorded on August 4, 2019.
Distinction displays God's glory.
Distinction displays God's people.
God's people display distinction.
Our distinction is not our own doing.
Our greatest distinction is eternal.
God's distinct love draws and divides.
This Sermon was recorded on July 28, 2019.
Main Points:
DTR: Defining the Relationship
1. We pray for our enemies-What's my relationship to my enemy?
2. We know sin is still costly-What's the nature of my relationship to you?
3. We pursue God that our hearts would change-What's the nature of my relationship with God?
This sermon was recorded on July 21, 2019.
Main Points:
1. God has a plan and it includes His people. 2. God has a purpose:
a. God's glory
b. Change hearts
3. God has a plea and a promise
Key verses:
John 1:14
Matthew 24:24-26
Hebrews 3:7-13
Ezekiel 25:17
"If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, thee most probable explanation is that we were made for another world." -C.S. Lewis
This sermon was recorded on July 14, 2019.
So many times in life just when I think things can’t get any worse -they do! In these moments I am tempted to doubt God‘s goodness and power. However, we find in Scripture that these very moments are the ones God uses to display his prevailing power over evil and love for his people.
We are instructed to STAY TUNED and we are never disappointed when we do.
This sermon was recorded on July 7, 2019.
Main Points
GOD PREVAILS:
1. AMIDST EVIL PEOPLE WITH EFFECTIVE PLANS
2. THROUGH SUFFERING
3. FOR THE WEAK AND THROUGH THEM
EXODUS 6:3-8-God reaffirms his commitment to His people:
*I will bring you out-v.6
I will deliver you-v.6
I will redeem you-v.6
I will take you to be my people-v.7
I will be your God-v.7
I will bring you into the land-v.8
I will give it to you for a possession-v.8
Behold. Believe. Become.*
The Gospel is the stable ship upon which we may lift our eyes from troubled seas and see the deliverance of our God. Listen as Pastor Will Hawk continues our series in Exodus. This sermon was recorded on June 30, 2019.
Main Points
- Come to Scripture with humility in one hand and expectation in the other.
- When it comes to the gospel and scripture wherever we look. There it is...
- God's people are called to work as worship not to worship our work.
Since the garden we have been tempted to hide our shame and brokenness, and yet it is our very brokenness that God re-claims to use for his own glory through the atoning work of Jesus Christ. Listen as Pastor Will Hawk guides us through the book of Exodus chapter 4.
Main Points:
- When we attempt to cover our weakness, we simultaneously attempt to cover God‘s grace & power.
- Fight the universal impulse to hide your weaknesses.
- Losing is often a prerequisite to winning.
Scriptures referenced (ESV):
*Exodus 4/ Exodus 3:11-12; 13-14/ John 9/ Matthew 8:1-4/ 2 Corinthians 12:7-10/ 1 Corinthians 1:22-24/ James 1:2-4/ Hosea 11:1-4/ James 4:6
This sermon was recorded on June 23, 2019.*
Because God is not constrained by others, we can be sure that he can deliver.
Because God is constrained by himself, we can be sure that he will deliver.
-Tim Chester
The LORD knows his people and wants to be known by them. Listen as Pastor Will Hawk unpacks Exodus chapter 3. This sermon is from June 16, 2019.
In the book of Exodus we find a nation steeped in turmoil whose hope cannot be found in politicians or armies but in a sovereign, promise-keeping God. We see that even before their cry for help is uttered, a savior is provided who has passed through ”waters of death” (Ex. 1:22) to have and give abundant life. We see that God’s children will be identified by their relationship with him as a God who has all power, knowledge, and loves them in spite of their brokenness with an everlasting love. Listen as Pastor Will Hawk unpacks Exodus 1-2. This sermon is the first of this series. June 9, 2019.
This isn't a surface level war, we must understand that. If we think that it's a surface level war we will attempt to reach for surface level resources. Our recourses and our placement in Christ are infinite, and we must fight in this way. Listen as Kwame Agyemang unpacks Ephesians 6:10-18. This sermon is from June 2, 2019.
“This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles.” Psalms 34:6. Listen as Kwame Agyemang guides us through Psalm 34:1-6
“Beloved, let us love.”Our ability to love is contingent upon first being loved. Indeed, apart from God, we are as likely to love another as we are to fluently speak a language we have never heard. Listen as Pastor Will Hawk guides us through 1 John 4:7-19.