Calvary Christian Church - KY: Recent Episodes
Mike McCormick
Calvary Christian Church located in Winchester, Ky., is all about, "Helping others become who God created them to be." We are seeking God with all our heart, soul, and mind. Serving God and man by living beyond ourselves. While sharing life with others in meaningful friendships. If you're interested in learning more about our church body, please download our Calvary App here: get.theapp.co/dad2
Fathers have throughout history served as leaders for their families. The legacy of God's people can be traced back to promises God made to founding fathers of our faith. The legacy we leave to the future generations will largely rest in the hands of spiritual fathers as well.
God has always been more concerned with the heart than with external compliance. The heart and soul reflect the inner life, emotions and passions of a person. God's desire is for the heart of every person and every family to beat out of love for Him.
Families are at the center of God’s plan for growing people who love Him and carry out his purposes in daily life. The church is a spiritual family, where individual families come together for even greater support and collective impact. The purpose of Table Talk is to get families talking about spiritual things. We will start the conversation on Sunday, and keep it going around the table at home!
This Sunday we came to the conclusion of the Esther story. The resolution of the story centers on the word, REST. Specifically, rest from our enemies. Isn't that a nice thought? Rest from our enemies? Is that even possible? Is it possible to have rest from those who have abused, mistreated, lied to and attacked you? Esther shows us one way to procure rest from our enemies while simultaneously pointing us to the best way to secure rest from our enemies.
We have reached the penultimate message in our Esther series and this one packs a punch pertaining to our pride. C.S. Lewis defined pride as "...ruthless, sleepless, unsmiling concentration on the self." This Sunday, we examined Haman. Haman is the antagonist to Esther and Mordecai. Haman is also a case study on the deadliness of pride and his downfall serves as a stern reminder to us all: we desperately need a cure for pride.
God has given everyone of us opportunities to be a positive influence in the lives of others. The questions is, how will we respond? On Sunday, we learned from the life of Esther about the subject of influence, with a special emphasis on the influential role of mothers.
We all like to have a sense of being in control of our own lives. However, there are times when it becomes crystal clear that control is simply an illusion. Often, it is in moments of injustice that our lack of control becomes apparent.
Too often, we look for God to show up in major and miraculous ways, and fail to account for the reality that God is constantly at work, even and perhaps, especially, in the everyday details of life. The story of Esther is all about God working in the smallest details of life to effect reversal of fortunes for everyone involved.
Too often, we look for God to show up in major and miraculous ways, and fail to account for the reality that God is constantly at work, even and perhaps, especially, in the everyday details of life. The story of Esther is all about God working in the smallest details of life to effect reversal of fortunes for everyone involved.
The gospel of Jesus Christ testifies to God's power to bring good out of the most difficult circumstances. On Sunday we heard a REAL story of HOPE to help us see how God brings beauty out of the ashes of our lives.
The gospel of Jesus Christ testifies to God's power to bring good out of the most difficult circumstances. On Sunday we heard a REAL story of HOPE to help us see how God brings beauty out of the ashes of our lives.
The gospel of Jesus Christ testifies to God's power to bring good out of the most difficult circumstances. On Sunday, we heard a REAL story of HOPE to help us see how God brings beauty out of the ashes of our lives.
Jeff Stultz grew up in Fayetteville, NC. He spent most of his adult life as a violent, drug addicted, motorcycle gang leader. After years of time in jail, rehabs and homelessness, Jeff came to know Jesus Christ. Jeff is now a husband and father, an actor, business owner and an ordained pastor. He serves as the Co-ministry Leader of Celebrate Recovery at Temple Church in Selma NC, as one of the North Carolina CR State Representatives, and as the National President of the Broken Chains Motorcycle Ministry. Jeff has become a motorcycle missionary traveling the country to share the Good News that change is possible - that there is hope and healing in Jesus Christ.
This is an important question before any endeavor, great or small. It is the key question for the follower of Christ. It is the key question if you do not follow Christ; are you ready? Are you ready for the King and His Kingdom? In this message, we examined one of the King's stories and see that the answer to that question must be "YES!".
This Sunday, we took a look at the parable of a powerful story about The King's expectations for using Kingdom resources for Kingdom Expansion.
Jesus, the master storyteller, understood that as humans, we have a natural tendency to ostracize others; to exclude; to leave out. The King's Story we will look at this Sunday reminds us that Christian are called to an entirely different kind of posture toward the world.
"Who is the greatest?" It is a question posed to identify the person at the top, the best, the one honored above the rest. It seems we as people are always wanting to compare and determine our value and position relative to others. Where do we fit in? Who should we honor and place high value on? The King tells a story that answers those questions.
Kingdom workers, those who follow Jesus as Lord and Savior, must strive to make forgiveness and reconciliation part of their mission. This is not easy, Jesus knew it would not be easy, so he provided a story, a way for us to see the bigger picture. The story reinforces the reality: kingdom workers forgive.
Uncovering the truth of the Kingdom of God through the parables of Jesus as told in the Gospel of Matthew. This story about workers in the vineyard reminds us of the dangers of entitlement and necessity of gratitude.
What if the Church actually looked like Jesus? What if OUR church looked like Jesus' life and ministry? On Sunday, we took a look at "Multiplication" - we will equip others to do the same!
What if the Church actually looked like Jesus? What if OUR church looked like Jesus' life and ministry? On Sunday, we took a look at Compassion - We will love compassionately without judgment.
What if the Church actually looked like Jesus? What if OUR church looked like Jesus' life and ministry? On Sunday, we took a look at 5 Biblical Values that bring us back to the simple value of the life and ministry of Jesus and examined... Mission - We will go to people. We will meet you where you are and stay there!!
What if the Church actually looked like Jesus? What if OUR church looked like Jesus' life and ministry? On Sunday, we took a look at Perseverance - we will never give up!! We will stand firm in God's word and share our scars.
What if the Church actually looked like Jesus? What if OUR church looked like Jesus’s life and ministry? This series will examine 5 Biblical Values that bring us back to the simple values of the life and ministry of Jesus.
When Cameron walked-on to the University of Kentucky basketball team in 1994, he had no idea he'd walk away with a full scholarship and two NCAA titles. Although, it was a dream fulfilled, he will be the first to tell you that the glitter of a championship ring is temporal and quickly fades.
Though basketball has been a huge part of his life, his calling since he was twelve has been ministry. He began Cameron Mills Ministries in June of 1998 and has since traveled around the country speaking to schools, youth groups, churches, and college groups.
For time immemorial, humankind has reached for the majesty of the heavens. The ancients sought signs from the stars. From the east, false religious philosophies developed and grew around astrology. In our modern time, we have seen man touch the moon and theorize about going even farther. We have always been enamored with the majesty of the heavens but there was a time when the Majesty flooded our margins and came to us. And that changed everything.
Before Joseph takes his family to Egypt, he goes to the heart of Israel in obedience to dedicate Jesus. The first people to encounter Jesus were common, marginalized people...people on the edge...people like Simeon and Anna. Devout and in his old age, Simeon wouldn't die until he met the Anointed One.
As this dedicated servant of God not only touched, but held Jesus in his arms, the majesty flooded him and he sang. Likewise, Anna, widowed after only seven years and who had now lived to the age of 84, had not left the Temple. She worshipped (sang), fasted and prayed day and night. Her faithfulness paid off in the most incredible of ways.
Many of us feel in the margins: pushed to the side, left out, and unimportant. Christmas can often amplify the feeling of being in the margins of life. This Christmas we are reminded that Jesus Christ came to bring the life and joy of his majesty to all of us who experience life in the margins!
How do you take everything we've learned and put it together? The purpose of training is eventually to engage in action! Every member of Christ's body is a minister. God's Word equips each one of us for the service to which He calls us.
An important part of maturing as a Christian is being able to "feed yourself". Practically speaking, we want to be continually growing in our desire for God's Word and in our commitment to read it daily. The Bible provides training for daily living and decision-making.
God's Word lays out the boundaries for what's "out of bounds" in our lives, and it provides the path to restoration to set us back on track. It provides the challenge and correction. The Bible is the authority on HOW we LIVE. On Sunday, we took a look at how to use the Bible for Rebuking and Correcting.
We live in an age of information overload. Technology makes the free flow of diverse ideas readily accessible. How do we know what is right? What is our filter for the Truth? In this message, we will be reminded that The Bible is the authority for WHAT we BELIEVE and how we think.
The bible has authority, because God is the author. We can see God is the author because of the single gospel message that is communicated through the 40 human authors, over 1500 years, in three different languages and continents.
The Bible is our source of authority. We can have confidence in its accuracy and look to it for direction in the midst of cultural confusion. We took a look into...What Makes the Word of God so Valuable?
As we finished out the Armor of God Series, we took a look at the subject that brings the whole Armor of God together!
How does the Christian skewer the dark schemes of the devil? By taking out the one truly offensive weapon in the Armor of God: the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God! Learning how to wield this incredible weapon is critical then to our ability to stand firm against the spiritual forces of evil.
The Bible tells us that the spiritual forces of darkness are bent on hurling fiery darts at us. On Sunday, we talked about the Shield of Faith - and that we need to have a faith that Jesus is who HE says he is!
The spiritual forces of darkness are looking for anything to take advantage of, and not putting on the peace of God leaves the door wide open for depression, anxiety, uncontrolled anger and a host of stormy conditions in your life. As followers of Jesus, we are called to stand for and spread peace.
The Breastplate of the Roman Soldier served to protect his heart and vital organs from a fatal, life-threatening blow. We examined how the righteousness God provides in Christ can guard us from the deceptive tactics of the enemy that specifically target our hearts.
The belt worn by the Roman solider served to stabilize, strengthen, and enable freedom of movement. Tucking the overall tunic into the belt meant the solider was ready for action! This Sunday, we took a look at the first step of putting on the Armor of God is to be ready for action, by making the truth of God's Word our standard for our lives.
Everyone wants to be successful in life. Nobody wants to be known as a failure. On Sunday, we took a look and see what Ancient Wisdom will reveal to us the true meaning success and show us how to embrace both success and failure as part of God’s plan for accomplishing His great purpose for our lives.
On Sunday, we took a look at LAZINESS. Proverbs has a lot to say about this topic. Join us as we unpack the ANCIENT WISDOM on laziness and discover what God has to show us about faithful, diligent work for God and God's Kingdom!
Our modern culture is driven by sex while at the same time experiencing great confusion over sexuality. If there was ever a time for God's Word to bring direction and clarity on the subject of sex, now is the time.
Jarrod Polson played basketball for the University of Kentucky from 2010-2014. He talks about life on and off the court.
This week we took a look at SECURITY. What does it mean according to the Book of Proverbs to have SECURITY and how do we get it? What does SECURITY mean to you? Is it money, protection, material or eternal?
This week we took a look at ANGER and hopefully gain some insight on how to deal with anger in our Modern World.
This week we took a look at MONEY. Our use of money is a window into our spiritual health. Jesus said, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Let's look together at the book of Proverbs and gain some ANCIENT WISDOM for managing our money...and ourselves in our Modern World.
This week we took a look at INTEGRITY. CS Lewis once wrote that the problem with our times could be traced back to "men without chests". This Sunday, Father's Day our search for wisdom highlights the need and benefit of being people of strong character and integrity.
Friendship is like perfume or oil Proverbs tells us. It is sweet. Most of us can readily list the close friends who have demonstrated loyal companionship to us. We can also enumerate supported friends who have betrayed our trust, whispered behind our backs or repeatedly offended us.
Watch here as Lead Pastor, Mike McCormick, introduces the process Calvary is currently engaged in to discern God's leading for our vision through the year 2020.
While information is available at the click of a button, acquiring wisdom takes some extra effort. The search for wisdom comes with a further look into the key words: Humility, Listening, and Obedience.
Holy Communion - Today, we wrap up our Ancient Practices series with an important look at what Communion is, why we celebrate it and how it must be central to our worship.
Today we look at the ancient practice of baptism. During Jesus’Great Commission to his apostles, he commanded them to “Go and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” The early church then followed Jesus’ command and included baptism as an important part of new believers beginning their journey with Jesus. Today we will learn more about the significance of this ancient practice of baptism for our modern lives.
Today we come to the practice of Reconciliation. Conflicts are a real part of life. Thankfully, Jesus provides us with some Ancient Wisdom on how to navigate through the uncomfortable waters of conflict. When carried out correctly, resolving conflict can result in deeper trust in God and deeper relationships with one another.
Today we come to the ancient practice of giving. In our modern world, the pull is toward acquiring and accumulating money and possessions. Jesus presents the practice of giving as an antidote to the greed and anxiety that accompanies the “pull for more” in our modern world.
Today we will explore the ancient practice of fasting. Fasting, when linked with prayer, transforms our physical hunger into a deeper appetite for spiritual sustenance and serves as a reminder that our ultimate satisfaction can only be found in Jesus Christ.
We have been given both the invitation and the command to pray like Jesus. But, too often, we have allowed our prayer life to deviate from the paradigm that Jesus gave us. In our modern world, and specifically, in our modern culture, it is entirely too easy for our prayers to be deeply embedded in our desires and ambitions. Today, we will finish this two-part examination on the Lord's Prayer. If our prayer is rooted in God's cause then we are able to present our needs. Let's reclaim the ancient practice of prayer in our lives.
We have been given both the invitation and the command to pray like Jesus. But, too often, we have allowed our prayer life to deviate from the paradigm that Jesus gave us. In our modern world, and specifically, in our modern culture, it is entirely too easy for our prayers to be deeply embedded in our desires and ambitions. Today, we will begin our two-week examination of the Lord’s Prayer and see that our prayer life has to be rooted in God’s cause. Let’s reclaim the ancient practice of prayer in our lives.
Today we continue in our study of the Gospel of John. Every person that Jesus encounters, he meets them where they are and then offers an invitation to begin living, A Better Story. In this session Thomas encounters the resurrected Christ. By defeating death Jesus offers to restore hope, restore life, and write a “A Better Ending” for our lives.
Today we continue in our study of the Gospel of John. Every person that Jesus encounters, he meets them where they are and then offers an invitation to begin living, A Better Story. In this session we will learn about Jesus and his servant leadership to those around him, creating “A Better Example” to follow.
Today we continue in our study of the Gospel of John. Every person that Jesus encounters, he meets them where they are and then offers an invitation to begin living, A Better Story. In this session we will learn about a blind man who encounters Christ. During this divine appointment, the man is healed and comes to see clearly Jesus’ offer for “A Better Vision.”
Today we continue in our study of the Gospel of John. Every person that Jesus encounters, he meets them where they are and then offers an invitation to begin living, A Better Story. In this session Jesus encounters a woman caught in sin and a group of religious leaders caught up in external rules. Jesus masterfully avoids the trap of both extremes and offers “A Better Approach.”
Today we continue in our study of the Gospel of John. Every person that Jesus encounters, he meets them where they are and then offers an invitation to begin living, A Better Story. In this session we will learn about a man who had been paralyzed for 38 years. After a long time of pain and suffering, Jesus heals him and offers him “A Better Future.”
Today we continue in our study of the Gospel of John. Every person that Jesus encounters, he meets them where they are and then offers an invitation to begin living, A Better Story. In this session we will learn about how a Samaritan woman’s thirst for water would lead her to “A Better Source” of living water when she meets Jesus at Jacob’s well.
Today we continue in our study of the Gospel of John. Every person that Jesus encounters, he meets them where they are and then offers an invitation to begin living, A Better Story. In this session we will learn about Nicodemus, a Pharisee of the Jewish ruling council, and his encounter with Jesus. In this meeting Nicodemus learns that there is a better understanding and a “A Better Religion” found in Christ.
During this series we will be studying The Gospel of John. Every person that Jesus encounters, he meets them where they are and then offers an invitation to begin living, A Better Story. In this session we will learn how Jesus’ first miracle demonstrates to a banquet manager how to have a “A Better Party.”
Today we conclude our series, ALL IN. Our focus is on the priority of Partnership. Going ALL IN for Partnership means not living your Christian life alone. Instead, cultivate relationships that provide personal support and increased ministry impact!
Today we continue in our series, ALL IN. Our focus is on the priority of Empowerment. Going ALL IN for Empowerment means not allowing fear or adversity to keep you from Fully Becoming who God created you to be. Instead, fully employ your God-given gifts to impact the lives of others.
Today we continue in our series, ALL IN. Our focus is on the priority of Discipleship. Going ALL IN for Discipleship means putting Christ at the center of our lives and seeing the ripple effects of HIS life impact every area of our lives.
Going ALL IN for Christ begins with going ALL IN for the life-changing power of the gospel. Today we will take a closer look into what exactly the good news is and what makes it so powerful.
We kick off the ALL IN series with an overview of the book of 2 Timothy and the key commitments to focus on as individuals and a church in 2016.
After Jesus was born, there were still people journeying to find him. Wise men followed a star and came from the east to meet the new King. Their journey ended with a response of extravagant worship and tremendous joy!
While the town of Bethlehem was buzzing with busyness, the Shepherds in the nearby fields went about their normal business taking care of sheep under the quiet, dark night sky. When the glory of the Lord broke through darkness that first Christmas night, the shepherds could not contain their curiosity and were compelled to share with others what they had seen and heard!
Overcrowded and chaotic, the Town of Bethlehem was filled with the hustle and bustle of the census. In middle of that chaos, the Savior of the world was born. With all the busyness of activity, the town was silent in one way- it missed the opportunity to welcome the new born King.
When Joseph first heard Mary was pregnant, everything began to change. The noise of broken trust with Mary and shattered dreams of their life together, made him afraid of getting married. However, when God broke through one silent night, Joseph gained the courage he needed to submit to God’s plan and move forward.
Mary would receive an unbelievable message, face unbearable scrutiny, and carry the unimaginable weight of being the mother of the Messiah. Yet in the midst of this pressure and uncertainty Mary has a settled peace in her heart and sings a song a praise.
Matthew chapter 1 is the record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah. This seemingly insignificant chapter of background information provides a historical record of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness to His people. As we begin this season of Advent, preparing for the coming King, we will see that God always keeps His promises and He is able to break through the silence of abandonment and loneliness with the peace of His presence.
Cancer, affairs, divorce, betrayal, persecution, loneliness, terrorism, financial ruin, tension in families, loss, death…dens of destruction are around us all the time. Sometimes others cast us into these dens and at other moments we find ourselves in them by our own decisions. It is in these dens that our spirit is revealed. Maybe you came to this message with your heart heavy and weary. You find yourself in a den, yearning for rescue…for a Deliverer who is able to shut the mouths of lions. Come as you are and be rescued today.
After 20 years “on the bench” Daniel gets the call once again. It’s a new king with a new vision, but Daniel is ready! Once again he rises to the challenge. This passage reminds us that it is never too late for God to use us, and God’s hand is at work in the details of our lives.
Daniel, in true OT prophetic form, does not hold back from telling Nebuchadnezzar that if he does not correct his behavior, he is in trouble. Daniel calls Nebuchadnezzar to repentance and humility. But Daniel doesn't speak this truth into the king’s life if chapter 1-3 don't happen. Daniel, by remaining faithful to God, has risen to such prominence that he is on friendly terms with the king of the most powerful empire on earth. Daniel did everything one shouldn't do if one wants to gain power and prestige, but Daniel is not working the in the world’s social economy but in the King of King’s…and that makes all the difference.
A statue of a man’s ego...a symbol of decadence and self-entitlement. Hero worship...literally. King Nebuchadnezzar built a statue in a flat plain with command that all in the kingdom must bow down. Once again, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were faced with a major decision: bow to culture or stand for the living God. Once again, standing for life meant almost certain death. The fiery result was the the human king was rendered impotent and the living God was glorified.
King Nebuchadnezzar had a bad dream and it needed interpretation. The problem was no one could explain the dream. The angry king rashly decided to kill all the wise men in the land and Daniel and friends were part of that crowd. Instead of relying on his own power, Daniel petitioned and asked his friends to petition to God on his behalf. He was rewarded with the interpretation of the king’s dream, and Daniel and company were further elevated in the land. Why? Because they relied first and solely on the power of God.
Foreign land, names changed, families murdered (in all likelihood) and in the conquering king’s palace. That is a recipe for capitulation to culture. Daniel and company were out of their element and being forced to accept the culture of the conquering Babylonians. In the face of overwhelming pressure, Daniel and his companions stood tall and refused the ungodly culture of the Babylonians. The consequences were immediate, Daniel and his friends grew in stature and wisdom. The practical application is that we as Christians have to stand up and refuse the ungodly parts of culture that are pressuring us to succumb.
Today we conclude our series with the fourth and final Pillar of Community - Gratitude. Gratitude is the appropriate response to having been given a gift. Healthy, growing communities share- they give and receive- with open hearts and open hands. They appreciate one another and they always let the gift deepen the value of the relationship.
Self entitlement...what a vicious killer! Living like the world owes you something brings nothing but deceit, disrespect, and a devaluing of everyone and everything you encounter. Does entitlement damage your decision-making? Like King David, perhaps it’s time for you to change direction and make the right choice.
Our third Pillar of Community is: Truth-Telling. Being truthful with one another is the basis for genuine relationships to exist and for deep trust to be built. It is in this environment where Christian community can grow and flourish, and it is best cultivated when we speak the truth in the context of genuine love for one another.
Infidelity and dishonesty, partners in an insidious plan, stroll throughout our culture in search of community. They seek not to discover it but to destroy it. How are we to recognize their presence and overcome their advances? By understanding the qualities and characteristics of a covenant. It’s what healthy communities do!
We live in a culture that does not place a high value on fidelity. Over 50% of marriages end in divorce and promises to children are broken. We see high turnover in the workplace as most people will change jobs 7-10 times after the age of 21. Add to that a general culture of consumerism where people like to keep their options open and maximize their choices. Not all these choices are harmful, but when promises are made, then broken, trust is damaged and people feel betrayed. Today we will look at how to recover from broken promises.
We live in a culture where people lack depth and are lonely. We are in deep need of a soul transformation. Today we will see that the best environment for soul transformation is to connect with a few like-purposed people, and that our first Pillar, Hospitality, opens the door to this new way of life.
Have you ever been left out or forgotten? It’s one of the most devastating, heart-breaking, and devaluing things that can happen to you. Exclusion is a crafty killer of community and in today’s world it is an enemy we must not only face but one we must learn to frustrate as well.
Today we kick off a new series focused on building community. Throughout this series we will be examining four key practices that serve to build up community: hospitality, fidelity, truth-telling, and gratitude. These four practices are the pillars of community. We will also be examining the opposites of these practices: exclusion, infidelity, deception, and entitlement.
These deformations are killers that, if not dealt with in our lives, will tear down our community. Each week we will explore biblical principles and practical actions to promote the pillars and prevent the killers of community in our church and in our surrounding communities.
Today, we will take a look at the early church to get an overview of these pillars and killers, and take the opportunity to assess our own lives in these key areas.
Frozen is a story about two sisters who learn the meaning of true love. Many of us have hearts that are frozen hard because sin and pain in the past, so we resort to a life of fear and isolation. Only an act of true love can thaw your frozen heart and enable you to give life to others.
Nobleman...galley slave...chariot racer. Betrayed by his best friend, Judah Ben-Hur was condemned to death...until God intervened. Today, At the Movies examines 1959’s Oscar-winning Best Picture, Ben-Hur. We’ll discover more than just “A Tale of the Christ”, as we seek to become better followers of Jesus.
At The Movies - Wreck-It Ralph is a story about finding your true identity and purpose in life. We all face struggles inside our own hearts and in finding our place with others. The good news is that transformation is available!
At The Movies - Apollo 13 is a historical account of space exploration but could easily reflect everyone’s personal “lost in space” odyssey. When we “lose our moon”, how do we find our way…how do we get home?
At The Movies - Week One presents the cosmic battle in life between good and evil. Humanity is in desperate need of a Super-Hero who is powerful enough to defeat the strongest enemy and who loves them enough to save them.
An active faith must learn to work in and through a world filled with change, challenge and chaos. As our sermon series comes to an end, James concludes his letter by introducing the most effective tool to accomplish the task; the practice of patient prayer.
Real faith is an active faith. James wants to close that gap between our belief and our behavior, specifically in the way we treat those who have been pushed to the margins in life. Pure religion is activated when we do something for somebody who can do nothing in return for us.
Real faith is an active faith. There is no room for passivity or stagnation. The litmus test of your faith is: What are you producing? This Father’s Day we will uncover two key characteristics that an active faith produces.
Today we continue in the series through the book of James called, Faith Does, a practical picture of what faith looks like in action. Trials and challenges are guaranteed to be part of our lives. Today we will see that an active faith perseveres through trials.
It's more dangerous than any poison under your sink. It's deadlier than the deadliest of weapons. And if it isn't controlled, this poison can destroy our community. Our study of James 3 will show us how we can get this poison controlled.
IMAG stands for “image magnification”. The great purpose of our lives, as people made in the image of God, is to reveal His greatness to a watching world. Today’s sermon will provide some concluding thoughts for this series from the life of the apostle Paul and others who demonstrate an IMAG life.
Graduation, leaving a job, finishing a project, breathing the last breath...endings...we are a people constantly moving toward an ending...a completion. Join us today as we explore what it means to magnify God in our lives when things, relationships and even life are ending.
Beginnings. New beginnings are both exciting and uncertain. While entering a new season of life can be challenging, it also provides an opportunity for us, and those watching us, to experience the wonder of God’s never changing faithfulness. Today we will learn that in new beginnings, we can move forward with confidence, knowing God is leading the way.
There are many times in life when we wish we had more clarity about God’s will and direction. Feeling confused get be discouraging and can cause us to be paralyzed in making necessary decisions for our life. Today we see that God’s greatness is revealed in times of confusion when we take time to develop our walk with God.
IMAG Series - Clarity. Knowing God’s will is one thing. Carrying it out is another. There are more times in life than we might initially realize when we actually know what God wants us to do. The challenge comes in doing what he asks. Today we discover that God’s great ability to provide is revealed when we obey what He has made clear.
IMAG Series - FAILURE/WEAKNESS. In a world that clamors for shows of strength, the Bible mandates the opposite. In fact, it is impossible to be strong simply by willing it for oneself. The great paradox of the kingdom ushered in by Jesus is that in our weakness we are made strong. This paradox means that often, we must operate subversively to our culture.
IMAG Series - Success. It’s often desired and rarely handled well. Success is intoxicating and can lead us to abandon what’s most important in life. Today we will see that God’s greatness is revealed in times of success when we protect our integrity and loyalty, and promote our testimony.
IMAG Series - All of creation reveals God’s greatness. Our Creator made us to reveal his greatness and wants to re-create us into the image of His Son, Jesus. Ultimately God’s greatness is revealed in our lives when Jesus lives through us.
Remastered Series - The final chapter of Mark brings following Jesus to its high point with the resurrection of Jesus. The search for fully becoming finds its fulfillment in the opportunity to Be Remastered! Embrace the purpose and person of Jesus.
Remastered Series - To be Remastered is to faithfully follow in the footsteps of Jesus.
Remastered Series - In these two passages (Mark 9:33-37; 10:35-45), the gospel writer exposes the biggest barrier facing the disciples - their own selfish ambition. While the disciples are following the Master daily, their main motive is still their own advancement in His kingdom. Jesus, however, upends their expectations by explaining that being Remastered means following the Master down into greatness.
Remastered Series - Mark 8:27-38 hinges a major shift in the gospel of Mark. From this point on, Mark will spend the majority of his writing in the last eight days of Jesus’ life, with specific focus on his suffering and sacrifice. In this section, Peter shows great understanding of who Jesus is and great resistance to the idea of suffering. From Peter’s interaction with Jesus, we learn that Being ReMastered demands we give only, everything to follow the Master.
Remastered Series - Oppression, it can hit at any moment in our lives and sometimes the thickness of the oppression dramatically reshapes our reality. In those dark moments, our faith is exposed for its depth. Often, we stumble in our belief and, as the situation (a sick kid, death in the family, loss of employment, etc.) worsens, we become more skeptical about a way out. Mark 9:14-32 demonstrates a timeless Kingdom principle that must be Remastered in our lives in order for us to say, “We believe, help us with our unbelief!”
Remastered Series - On the heels of both accounts of feeding the multitudes, the gospel of Mark captures an inside look at the disciples, who in spite of being part of the miraculous, still fail to fully understand the person and purpose of Jesus. This incomplete understanding is pictured by the blind man who Jesus touches twice, because his vision is still blurry after the first touch. The fact that the disciples had hard hearts and fuzzy faith, encourages us to admit that our own faith is still being developed by the Master.
Remastered Series - These passages deal with the two accounts of Jesus feeding the multitudes (5,000 and 4,000). Jesus meets the impossible challenge of feeding the crowds and he does it through his 12 disciples. In these stories we learn that being Remastered means making yourself available for Jesus to do the impossible through you.
Remastered Series - This parable is unique because it serves as the key to the other parables in Mark (Keener). The Word that is sown will only grow in receptive hearts and minds. The soil type we are as followers of God deeply matters. Word is the subject of the action taking place in Jesus’ interpretation of this parable but both the hearers and the word are lumped together in each metaphor.
Remastered Series - This section gives three examples of the pharisees missing the person of Jesus and the purpose of His ministry. Their fixation on external rules and their pride that comes from being the ones dictating those rules prevented them from grasping who Jesus really was and became a barrier to submitting to him. Often, we can slip into a similar pattern of holding on to changing external circumstances while missing the heart of what Jesus is doing around us. Today is a reminder that being Remastered requires Inside-Out Obedience.
Remastered Series - Being remastered begins with repenting and believing in the gospel.
Teleios Series - Fully Becoming requires us to move from independent to interdependent living.
Teleios Series - This sermon addresses the second of our three-step strategy in fully becoming - serve God and others. This strategy is the outward ( -> ) movement in our spiritual maturity, as we fully become when we give ourselves to others.
Teleios Series - Devotion is our deepest desire, directed toward God. Being in God's presence is the most satisfying experience of the human condition. We were made for it.
Teleios Series - 2015 will be a year of transition for us individually and as a church. Fully becoming who God has created us to be will require leaving behind some things, attitudes, and behaviors. It's also helpful to identify the things, attitudes, and behaviors we want to carry forward into the new year.
With•in Series - Today we wrap up our Christmas series, With•in, a look at the Christmas story through the eyes of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Working our way backward from Pentecost, the cross, the temple and the manger, we now arrive at the first mention of Mary in scripture. Here, the angel announces the news to Mary that the Messiah will be within her. The rest of the Christmas story and our salvation, begins with Mary's response of humility, faith, and obedience.
With•in Series - There is a tension in discipleship. How we move from our ways/plans/desires to the ways/plans/desires of Jesus can be messy and upsetting sometimes. But if we look closely at the life of Mary, she provides a blueprint for navigating through event the most challenging moments of discipleship.
With•in Series - Mary was the first person to see Jesus be brought into this world and she was present when he gave up his spirit and died. On the final day of Jesus' earthly life, Mary stood "near the cross of Jesus." Violent opposition and pain had been foreshadowed earlier when Jesus was dedicated at the temple at eight years old. The prophets had also spoken hundreds of years earlier about the Messiah being the suffering servant (Isaiah 53). The harsh reality was that Jesus was born to die. In that moment, while Jesus is providing the cosmic sacrifice for humanity, Jesus also personally provides a caretaker for his mother.
Today we will see from the life of Mary that, God wants to bring good into your grief by shaping your perspective and showing His presence this Christmas season!
With•in Series - God’s people had been expecting the Messiah. Mary knew these promises. Once the angel appeared to her, she began expecting the Messiah to be within her (Luke 1:31-35). She had been here once. Now, in the Upper Room, she is expecting again! (Acts 1:14).
A Heart For God Series - How would you like to be remembered? Saints such as Abraham, Moses, David, Peter and Paul have inspired believers throughout the ages. Each, though imperfect, is an amazing example of what the Lord can do through hearts that are truly committed to Him. Do you want to be like them - a person who honors God wholeheartedly?
Fully Become Series - In the closing chapter of Hebrews, we are given a series of exhortations and blessings. If the Gospel proclaimed through the first 12 chapters of this epistle is true, then these parting words paint a picture for us of what a life of faith looks like, and what it means to "fully become who God created us to be."
Fully Become Series - What does spiritual authority look like in the Church, and how should we respond to it?
Fully Become Series - What is your idol? Join us as we take a look at a dangerous false god.
Fully Become Series - Join us as we look at what it means to have a lasting Christian marriage.
Unshakable Series - The crescendo. Hebrews 12:18-29 draws together all the magnificent arguments of the author of Hebrews into a beautiful and striking contrast of two mountains. Are you running the race with endurance or have you been sidelined? Come run toward the unshakable kingdom.
New Lead Pastor - Today’s message is brought to us by our new lead pastor, Mike McCormick to encourage the Calvary church family to look beyond difficult circumstances and to find confidence in God's character. God is not the enemy. He is using the heat to refine your faith to make it genuine, like pure gold. Don’t let fear override your faith so put your confidence in God’s character!
Unshakable Series - God's loving disciple is at work in the life of every believer. When the "unforgiving minute" seems overwhelming and unmanageable, the pursuit of God's glory will provide strength and peace through the hardships. Hebrews 12 reminds us to keep our eyes focused on Jesus in all things.
By Faith Series - Passive faith isn't enough. Join us as we explore how Hebrews 11 and 12 come together to show that Christians must have an active faith.
By Faith Series - You may have stumbled into the message today burdened by what others think of you or by what you think of yourself. It may feel like your world is crumbling around you. Maybe you struggle with judging others. Whatever the case, there is a scarlet cord for you! Come. Live by faith.
By Faith Series - Abraham's obedience to God's most shocking request inspires us to place our unwavering trust in the God who keeps his promises.
By Faith Series - Where do you spend your time, treasures and talent? Walk with us as we discover what it means to live by faith.
By Faith Series - Without faith it is impossible to please God. Learn how faith informs our worship and allows us to draw near to God.
By Faith Series - Chapter 11 of Hebrews is often referred to as the great "Hall of Faith." We will see through the lives of these spiritual heroes that faith anticipates the future, acts in the present, evaluates the past, dares to move out, persists to the end and ultimately exalts Jesus Christ.
Diagrams adapted from Mike Breen & 3DM content, Covenant & Kingdom.
Grow Up Series - Much of Hebrews echoes with the call for believers to mature in their faith and to press ever deeper into a relationship with Jesus Christ. In Chapters 5-10 of this New Testament epistle, we find both admonition and encouragement to the life of faith.
Grow Up Series - We cannot compartmentalize the Living God! Join us as we discuss the danger of drawing near.
Grow Up Series - People, Potential, Power, and Passion...serving God at the center of our lives; a radical re-orientation from the old covenant to the new! The writer of Hebrews challenges us to stop settling for old copies and start living in the new reality...Jesus is enough!
Grow Up Series - Sometimes we get mixed up on our Christian identity. We put too much stock into a personality or into people and forget that we are only redeemed because of Jesus. Jesus is enough! Join us as we trek through Hebrews 8 and discover (or rediscover) why Jesus is enough!
Grow Up Series - Do you feel like there is an impassible distance between you and God? Check out what Hebrews 7 has to say on drawing near to God!
Grow Up Series - Working towards maturity in Christ can be very difficult. In fact, downright discouraging at times! Don't let a stern warning to Grow Up leave you down in the dumps, feeling alone, and wondering what to do. Rest assured, God knows you and his power, purpose, and provision will help you live a life that echoes salvation. Jesus Christ is your refuge and strength. He turns bitter into sweet and gives the harried hope.
Hebrews Series - Hebrews 4:11-13 reminds us of the power and gravity of God's word. "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts."
Hebrews Series - What do we all need to pack in our suitcase for life? A pillow and a sword. Check out why that is so in Hebrews 4:1-13.
Hebrews Series - Hebrews 3 requires us to remember, and it's good to remember. Remembering can help us gain stability in the present and to place the future into proper perspective. Let's discover together how remembering in the context of Hebrews 3, leads us to say that Jesus is better than Moses.
Hebrews Series - We buy into the lie that we should be afraid of death. The devil has propagated that lie. It's time to break free from lifelong slavery to that fear of death.
Hebrews Series - How do you respond when you receive an important piece of news? Hebrews 2 reminds us to pay attention to the messages we receive... and to pay the most careful attention to the good news of the Gospel. Jesus is better than any news!
Hebrews Series - Angels are real, and that should matter to us; but Jesus is better than angels, and that should matter even more. Hebrews 1 reminds us to keep Jesus in his rightful place: above all created things.
Hebrews Series - The book of Hebrews is a thorough reminder that Jesus Christ is superior to anything this world has to offer. Admonishing believers to persevere in their faith, the writer reminds us all of the authority, the righteousness, and the power of the Son of God. Through this extended study, we will walk together through this New Testament epistle and rediscover what it means to put our faith in the One who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
It is the most cataclysmic, history-altering event of all time. It is the anchor of the Christian faith. It defied natural laws, usurped rational thinking and broke down man-made barriers. It validated the Hebrew Scriptures, fulfilled prophecies and brought salvation to all. The resurrection of Jesus the Christ makes all the difference for all time. Today, we explore the Johannine account of the death of death and rediscover the power of the resurrection and how we can truly experience the most significant event of all time.
Full of It Series - Jesus closes out the Beatitudes with a reminder that peace with God means having peace with others.
Full of It Series - God's mercy moves on our behalf to forge a relationship where one does not exist. Jesus teaches that we must do the same, even when sin hits close to home.
Full of It Series - Jesus lived a life of meekness, leveraging his strength under control to the will of the Father. He teaches us that a life centered around the purposes of God will be supremely blessed, and will make an eternal impact.