The Town Church / Fort Collins: Recent Episodes
The Town Church
The Town Church is a church in Fort Collins, Colorado. We gather on Sunday mornings at 2112 E Harmony Road in Fort Collins. Join us as we learn to live in light of the gospel of Jesus Christ as taught in God's Word. For more information visit our web site - www.thetownchurch.org
This week, Vince, Kirsten, Eric, and Rex look back at Luke 9:18-27. Discussion topics include
- Expectations of the Messiah
- The shocking nature of Jesus's call to die
- The importance of community
- Finding joy in obedience
- Giraffes
Who do you say Jesus is? In this passage, Jesus explores this question and its implications with his disciples.
This week, Vince, Kirsten, Jory, and Rex look back at Jesus's feeding of the 5000. Topics include
- God's use of people who have nothing to offer
- Jesus's practical provision of our needs
- The authority and gentleness of Jesus
- Chilis Chicken Crispers
When the disciples return from Jesus's mission, they withdraw to find some rest. Instead, Jesus gives the disciples a new, seemingly impossible task. In the feeding of the 5,000, we see that God's grace is sufficient for us and that his power is made perfect in our weakness.
In Luke 9:1-9, Jesus sends out the 12 disciples with to do what they've seen him doing. Jesus's authority was with them, and that's all they needed.
This week Vince, Kirsten, Eric, and Rex look back at the beginning of Luke 9. Topics include:
- The Authority of Jesus at work in his followers
- Evangelism
- Swords
The end of Luke 8 tells of two oddly familiar stories of healing that are meant to show us the purpose of Jesus' ministry and the people that he came for.
This week Eric, Kirsten, Brock, and Rex look back at Luke 8:22-39. Topics include
- What is Biblical Theology?
- Our culture's allergy to the supernatural yet desire for transcendence.
- How should we think about demons?
- The gift of God's word.
- An amazing pig noise.
In two separate and supernatural narratives, Luke shows us who Jesus is and why he came.
In the beginning of Luke 8, Jesus tells two parables and has a strange interaction with his family. The point of this is to show us how followers of Jesus react to his word.
This week, Vince, Kirsten, Jory, and Rex unpack the parable of the sower. Questions include:
- How should we interpret parables?
- How should Jesus's words inform our witness?
- What should we do with doubts?
This week, Vince, Kirsten, Eric, and Rex dive deep into Luke 7:36-8:3. Topics include:
- Response vs. hoops to jump through
- Duty or delight in following Christ
- Love vs. manufacturing gratitude
- Christ's pursuit of sinners
- Prairie dog revolts
Through a parable at a dinner party, we see that gratitude and love are responses to God's grace, not a way of earning the God's grace.
Vince, Kirsten, Ellie and Eric further explore -
- John the Baptist seeking greater certainty about Jesus (!)
- The meaning of v.35
- Some ways the text shows us what God is like
- A few ideas for application
John the Baptist is looking for certainty about Jesus. Jesus answers by pointing to Scripture, holding up high the life of John, and eliciting our own response to him.
Vince, Kirsten, Jory and Eric explore and apply a bit more the themes of the two stories following Jesus' Sermon on the Plain - the centurion's faith and the raising of the widow's only son.
- God moving toward the outsider
- Jesus' authority as both cosmic and compassionate
Plus, what one topping in the entire world would you put on pizza if you could only choose one?
In focusing on two interactions displaying the authority of Jesus, Luke gives us more certainty about who Jesus is.
In his conclusion to the sermon on the plain, Jesus asks the listeners to consider themselves, the fruit of their lives, and their foundation.
This week, Eric, Kirsten and Rex talk about the beginning of the sermon on the plain. Topics include:
- Blessings that don't look like blessings
- The mercy of God
- The importance of community
- Eric's birthday
Featuring as a special guest the spider that crawled on Rex's arm.
This passage begins Jesus's Sermon on the Plain. In it, Jesus shows the blessing of following Him, the sorrow of following self, and the overarching call to love in the Christian life.
This week, Vince, Kirsten, and Rex look back at Luke 6:12-19. Topics include
- The diversity of the apostles (and the Church!).
- God's pursuit of those far from him.
- Roller skating through IKEA as the world ends.
In Luke 6:12-19, we see Jesus intentionally choosing a diverse, unlikely group of men who would serve as his apostles.
This week, Eric, Jory, and Rex look back at Luke 6:1-11. Topics include:
- What makes someone a Pharisee?
- Why did Jesus choose to heal someone who didn't ask for it?
- Why does Jesus call him self "The Son of Man" so much?
- How can we keep our guards up against dead religion?
- What is the correct way to use a microphone?
When religious rules overshadow God's compassion, true rest becomes impossible. The beginning of Luke 6 contrasts the joyless legalism of the Pharisees with the healing authority of Jesus, the true Lord of the Sabbath.
This week, Eric, Vince, Kirsten, and Rex talk through the end of Luke 5. Topics include:
- Jesus' pursuit of those far from him
- What it means that Jesus came for the sick
- How to find joy and awe as a response to Jesus
- Dutch Bros coffee
The final section of Luke 5 shows how Jesus intentionally pursues those who are far from him. Through the story of Levi the tax collector, we discover that turning away from sin and turning toward Christ naturally results in a life of celebration rather than joyless legalism.
This week, Jory, Kirsten, Vince, and Rex look further into Jesus' healings in Luke chapter 5. Topics include:
- Faith and healing
- Jesus' pursuit of the outcast
- Jesus' presence with us now
- Hazelnuts
Luke 5:12-26 describes the continuation of Jesus' ministry. Through the accounts of the leper and the paralyzed man, we see a Savior who offers both physical restoration and the ultimate healing of forgiveness.
Psalm 67 asks God to be gracious to us and bless us - not only for our own benefit, but that ALL may know our good and gracious God who is worthy of praise.
In this episode, Vince, Kirsten, Ellie, and Rex talk through Luke 5:1-11. Topics include:
- What does it mean that Jesus invites his disciples into his mission?
- What does that calling look like day to day?
- How does this play out in community?
This prayer helps us to plea for protection from those who would do us evil and also serves as a reminder of God’s unmerited favor upon us - even though there is no good innately in us.
In this (late) episode of the Afterword, Vince, Kirsten, Betty, and Rex talk through the authority of Jesus. Topics include:
- The interplay of our faith with God's authority
- How to think about God's authority to say "No" to our prayers
- The reality of spiritual evil
- Fish and Chips
Luke 4:31-44 is all about Jesus' authority: in teaching, over demons, over sickness and affliction, and over his mission.
This prayer is David’s well-known plea to God to cleanse him after his sin with Bathsheeba.
This prayer may help to give you words as you seek the Father in your own sin.
In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul gives believers what he says is of first importance: Christ died, Christ was buried, and Christ rose. What does that mean for us?
This is a prayer to express to God your anguish AND to remind your heart where your hope remains.
Jesus began his ministry by teaching in his home town. At first people loved what he had to say, but when Jesus pressed them they tried to throw him off a cliff! This week we consider:
- Why did the people change so drastically in their response?
- What happens when we "make God in our image" by only accepting the word of Jesus that we like?
- What does this passage show us about God?
- How do we apply this today?
Luke 4:14-30 marks the beginning of Jesus' teaching ministry. In this passage, those from His hometown are faced with the choice of accepting Jesus as who he says he is or rejecting him for not being who they wanted him to be.
This prayer celebrates the goodness of confessing our sin to God and being forgiven by him! Might this psalm give you words when you feel hesitancy to confess your own sin.
The temptation of Jesus in the wilderness raises many important questions. This week, we focus on just a few:
- Why would God allow Satan any power?
- What does it mean that Jesus was tempted?
- Why does this text matter for us as readers?
- What does this passage reveal about who God is?
Luke 4 begins with Satan tempting Jesus in the wilderness. As we explore this passage, we seek to answer one important question: How does the Son relate to the Father?
This prayer celebrates the awe-inspiring glory of God, zeroing in on the power of simply God’s voice.
Luke 3 ends with Jesus's baptism and genealogy. While it seems dry, Luke uses this list of names to establish Jesus as the new Adam and as our hope for new life.
The dominant challenging human emotion of this prayer is fear in the face of adversaries.
But that challenging emotion is held in tension with the strong seemingly opposite heart posture of trust in God as our shelter.
This week, we discuss a few key questions raised by this passage and consider what it reveals about who God is.
• Why does repentance matter in the Christian life?
• What is God like?
• Why does this matter for us?
The life and ministry of John the Baptist are meant to reveal Jesus to the world. In the opening passage of Luke 3, we see that John’s mission, message, and ministry are all about Him.
This week, we dive deeper into the story of 12-year-old Jesus at the temple and consider what it reveals about who He is.
- What stood out to us from this text?
- What is God like?
- How should these truths impact the way we live?
Luke 2:41–52 gives us a glimpse of Jesus at twelve years old. As we study this passage, we consider what it means that He is fully God and fully human, living in submission to earthly parents. This truth shapes how we understand His actions and the interactions in the story.
This week, we explore Jesus’ presentation at the temple in Luke 2:22–40. As we consider the faithfulness of Mary, Joseph, Simeon, and Anna, we center our discussion around three questions:
- What stands out to us from this passage?
- What is God like according to this text?
- Why do the truths of this text matter?
Our study of Luke 2:22–40 is shaped by Galatians 4:4–5. Using these verses as our framework, we see how Jesus is the true fulfillment of the law and the One sent to redeem all people.
This prayer rejoices in the joys and benefits of being kept by God - of being in relationship with him.
Welcome back to the AfterWord!
Even though we are in the middle of February, we look at the story of Jesus' birth with a fresh perspective.
- What did we notice about the text that we haven't before?
- What is God like?
- If the birth of Jesus demands a response, how should we respond in light of who God is?
The events of Luke 1 all lead to this moment: the arrival of Jesus, the promised Messiah. In the story of His birth, we see God’s perfect timing, true humility, and the reality that the gospel is for all people.
A prayer to remember God's holiness, what he calls his people to, and the grace of God in Jesus.
This week, we dive deeper into the ways God’s mercy is on display in this text and explore what it reveals about who He is.
- What stood out to you from the text this week?
- What is God like and why does that matter?
Luke 1 concludes with the birth of John the Baptist. Through John’s birth and Zechariah’s prophesy, we see clear evidence of God’s mercy at work.
This leads us to the question guiding our time in the passage: What does the birth of John show us about God’s mercy?
The theme of this week’s prayer is a plea for God to answer us and act when it feels like he has been distant and unresponsive for an incredibly long time.
Joy and faith can be difficult to fully grasp, yet they are essential to the Christian life. In our discussion of Luke 1:39–56, we explore how these two themes and more shape the lives of God’s people.
Other questions:
- What stood out to you from this passage?
- What is God like and why does this matter?
Luke 1:39–45 highlights the responses of Mary, Elizabeth, and John as God’s work continues to unfold through the arrival of the Messiah.
Our new host, Rex, leads us through some helpful questions as we dive deeper into this week's passage.
- How can we walk alongside those who are struggling to trust that God is still at work when their prayers seem impossible?
- What do we learn about Mary through her response to Gabriel's message?
- What is God like according to this text? Why does that matter?
Mary, an unlikely and undeserving choice, was used by God to reveal His promises to the world. Through Gabriel’s visit, we see that God chooses to extend His grace to the humble and invite them into His redemptive plan.
A prayer of praise rooted in the All-Mighty Creator caring for us who are the not-all-mighty created.
Rex is back!
As we look at the context of this passage, we ask what it really means that Zechariah and Elizabeth are described as blameless and how that shapes the way we think about God giving or withholding good gifts.
Once again, we focus on these three key questions:
- What parts of the context need closer attention?
- What is God like according to the text?
- And what difference does that make?
Luke begins by setting the stage for the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah God’s people had long been waiting for. Through the angel’s visit to Zechariah, we see that God is preparing the way for the One who will meet the deepest needs of all people.
The AfterWord is back with a new season!
We kick back off with three questions that will be central to our discussions moving forward:
- Is there anything about the context of the passage to explore?
- What is God like according to the text?
- What difference does that make?
The gospel is for everyone.
As we begin our journey through Luke, this truth sets the tone for everything that is to come.
God has graciously given us many means of grace to help us know Him more deeply. One of those gifts is prayer. This week, we consider what God truly desires from us as we come before Him in prayer.
We wrap up our Advent series by looking at the hymn O Holy Night. Though it was written by unexpected authors, it beautifully proclaims the reality that on this most holy night, our Savior came to earth.
Jesus offers us true, eternal joy. Joy to the World turns the truths of Psalm 98 into a hymn that proclaims who Christ is and what He offers to the world.
So we should respond in one way: with joy!
Inspired by the angels’ appearance to the shepherds in Luke 2, Charles Wesley composed this hymn about the Savior King.
We zoom in on this hymn with one important question in mind: How does it help us see Jesus?
This Advent hymn has withstood the test of time, sung for centuries and still echoing here in Fort Collins, Colorado.
The main theme it proclaims is that Jesus, our Savior, has come to release us from the captivity of sin and from Satan, our enemy. And our response is simple: rejoice!
In 1744, Charles Wesley published the hymn Come Thou Long Expected Jesus.
This hymn, rich with theological truth, reminds us of the King who came and who will return, bringing true rest and freedom for His people.
It's our final AfterWord of 2025!
This week, we wrap up our series, The Common Thread, by looking at the Minor Prophets.
- What struck you this week? What was surprising about our look at these books?
- What will stick with you about tracing the thread of Jesus in the Old Testament?
- What is God like according to the Minor Prophets?
Our final week in the Old Testament brings us to the Minor Prophets.
These twelve books speak against the rebellion of God’s people, yet they also reveal God’s heart to draw His people back to Himself.
The Major Prophets can feel confusing or intimidating to read. This week, we walk through some practical pointers for how to read through these books.
Questions we explore:
• How do we see more of Jesus through lamenting and grief (Lamentations)?
• How has God responded to situations in our own lives?
• According to the Major Prophets, what is God like?
In the Major Prophets, God speaks with authority about His character, His judgment, and His plans for redemption.
From Isaiah to Daniel, we see God’s longing for His people to turn from sin, and each book points forward to the coming Messiah who will ultimately deliver His people.
The wisdom books teach us a lot about human emotion. We often swing between two extremes: ignoring our emotions or letting them rule our lives. Today, we talk about how to avoid those two ditches and explore a few other helpful topics.
- What is the "fear of God" mentioned in Proverbs?
- How do we read through Proverbs devotionally?
- What resonated with us from Sunday's sermon?
Listen until the end for our new outro music!
God intentionally created us as emotional beings.
From Job to Song of Solomon, the wisdom books of the Old Testament give voice to those emotions and show us how to bring our whole selves to God.
In this big picture overview of the History books, we see the continued pattern of a deep longing for Jesus.
- Is every failing or disappointment in life meant to point us to Jesus and His promised return?
- How do we counsel someone enduring hardship, knowing that restoration may not come until Jesus returns?
- What is God like according to these books?
The History books of the Old Testament continue to reveal that something is missing for God’s people—something only Jesus can fulfill.
Through the stories of promised lands and imperfect leaders, we see the ache for a greater King and a true place of rest. Every victory, failure, and longing points us to Jesus—the one who fully satisfies.
This week, we zoom out and look at the big picture. How do the first five books of the Bible show us our need for Jesus?
- What generally struck you from this sermon?
- Have you always viewed the Bible as one cohesive story?
- Why is the Old Testament still valuable today?
All of the Old Testament points forward to the coming of Jesus.
This week, we’re looking at how Christ is revealed in The Law -- the first five books of the Old Testament. In these pages, God shows us His character and His will for His people. At the same time, The Law exposes our inability to perfectly live out that will. These books stir in us a longing for someone greater someone who will fulfill the Law on our behalf and bring the restoration and redemption our hearts desperately need.
In our 1 Corinthians wrap-up, we explore the themes of chapter 16—how saints give together, serve together, endure together, and love together.
- Of these themes, which one resonated with you the most?
- How has God shaped your perspectives around giving? What has that looked like for you?
- What are current ministries to be involved in at our church (and are there any that you would like to see one day)?
- Who in our body has helped you endure?
- What are tangible examples of love you've experienced through the church?
Our journey through 1 Corinthians ends with Paul’s closing words in chapter 16.
He ties together the heart of his message—our unity in Christ—and shows what that looks like in practice. It’s a fitting conclusion to this letter and to our series, reminding us again that we are called to be saints together.
In the resurrection, we will finally be completely free from sin and its consequences.
- Is it harder for us to think about having bodies that are physically restored or bodies that are unaffected by sin?
- What effect of sin are we most looking forward to being destroyed?
- What could it look like for each of us to remain steadfast and immovable in our own lives?
Jesus is victorious over sin and death. Because of His victory, we will one day no longer feel the sting of sin.
In the final verses of 1 Corinthians 15, Paul proclaims this triumphant truth that should move our hearts to worship.
Resurrection bodies?! This subject can bring up a lot of questions that we may never be able to answer. Rather than venturing into the weeds, we consider a few different questions:
- How does the reality of death before life hit our hearts?
- How does this influence the way we share the gospel with others?
- How does this increase our hope in what is to come?
As Christians, we get to live in eager anticipation for what is to come when our bodies are fully restored and we get to dwell in perfect union with God.
Paul reminds the Corinthians of this promise of life and restoration in this passage on resurrection bodies.
A brief introduction to the forthcoming short podcast series designed as a companion to our fall reading plan of the Gospel of John. It answers questions like:
- Why this short series?
- What do we mean by engaging with the Bible "devotionally"?
- What can I expect?
The bodily resurrection of Christ is foundational to our faith, yet this can be a stumbling block to our culture.
- Where have we seen culture contradict the truth of the resurrection?
- Are there any beliefs you've had that contradicted the gospel?
- How have you seen God graciously correct those overtime?
- What has He used to correct any inconsistent beliefs?
Paul builds upon the unifying Gospel truths he wrote in the beginning of chapter 15 to now help some in the Corinthian church who had beliefs and lifestyles inconsistent with the Gospel truth of Christ's bodily resurrection.
In this text Paul both encourages us with the beautiful ramifications of Christ's bodily resurrection as well as offers us the gift of examining where we believe and live in ways contradictory to the Gospel - so that we might more fully live!
The Gospel is a message of great hope for the undeserving -- and that's all of us!
- What does it really mean that the Gospel transforms everything?
- What things are you tempted to have as first importance?
- How did God deliver the gospel message to you?
- What has your own relationship with Jesus been like recently - more surviving or reviving?
Paul brings everything back to the message of first importance -- the Gospel.
It is this fundamental truth that transforms us, empowers us, and unites us.
Happy three years of the AfterWord!
Another special guest joins us to share their journey of understanding spiritual gifts. Together, we explore how they can be used, the tensions that may arise, and how, in the end, these gifts draw our eyes to God.
Before moving onto the next chapter of 1 Corinthians, we pause to do a deep dive into each of the gifts mentioned by Paul. What are they, and how can they be used at The Town Church?
This passage in 1 Corinthians raises some challenging but important questions. With the help of a special guest, we take time to wrestle with these tough topics while bringing the focus back to God’s character.
- How should we define prophecy?
- How do we weigh / discern prophecy?
- Do verses 34 and 35 apply to single women?
God is a God of peace and order, and our worship ought to reflect who He is.
In this passage, Paul instructs the Corinthian church in orderly worship
Paul exhorts the Corinthian church to earnestly desire the gifts -- so what has this looked like for each of us?
This week, we discuss tongues and prophecy in the corporate gathering and welcome a special guest who shares both wisdom and pieces of her own story.
The gifts of prophecy and tongues are given by God for the good of the church.
Paul shows how they are to be practiced, always grounded in love, so that the whole body is encouraged and strengthened.
We often look at 1 Corinthians 13 without thinking of the surrounding context. At its core, this passage encourages the Corinthian church to exercise spiritual gifts in a way that is rooted in love.
Our conversation begins with one important question: How does love practically play out in unity and not only in uniformity?
Other questions:
- How do you not insist on your own way while holding tightly to conviction?
- How is this description of love different from what our culture tells us?
- How does this love differ from romantic love?
In this well-known passage, Paul tells the Corinthian church that if they want unity to last, it all comes down to one thing: love.
God appoints the gifts that the Church needs, and Paul reminds us of this truth in 1 Corinthians 12.
This week, we dig deeper into these "higher gifts" and explore how they ultimately point toward unity.
Some of the questions we consider include:
- What does unity really mean?
- How can we remain unified even when we land in different places regarding the gifts?
- Do individuals have gifts of healing and miracles?
The gifts listed in this passage are appointed to and needed by the Church today.
How are we supposed to use these gifts for the common good of the Church?
God has graciously brought a diversity of individuals to The Town Church. In this episode, we take time to reflect on the unique giftings we see in a small number of those people and the beauty of God’s design in bringing us together.
Some questions for discussion:
- A common belief today is that the Church does not have a place in our personal relationship with God. How does this passage speak to that?
- Why is uniformity not necessary for true unity?
The church is composed of a wide variety of people, and everyone has something different to bring to the table.
This passage answers an important question: What are God's designs for unity in the diversity of the local church?
When it comes to the gifts mentioned in this passage, many people fall along a wide spectrum in terms of their personal views.
- What is your personal experience with these gifts?
- How have your views continued to be shaped over the course of your Christian life?
How is the Holy Spirit at work in the life of the Church?
Paul answers this question in this passage, introducing three profound ways the Spirit builds up the Church.
Communion is a beautiful way we are able to experience the love of Christ and recognize the sacrifice made for us on the cross.
This week, we talk about changes we made as a church in how we do Communion and do a deeper exploration of this passage in 1 Corinthians 11.
- What is your process before you take Communion?
- What things may distract us from Jesus in our church gatherings today?
- What responsibility do parents have in guiding their children as they take part in the Lord’s Supper?
The church in Corinth had lost sight of the true meaning of the Lord’s Supper, treating it in ways that caused division.
In this passage, Paul offers a strong correction—reminding the church (and us) of what this meal truly represents.
This passage is filled with timeless instruction that reveals God's good design for marriage. Additionally, we try to bring a bit of clarity to some of Paul's more confusing points (...because of the angels?).
- How can we see the cultural significance of this passage as Christians in Fort Collins?
- What is our personal response to God's design for marriage?
- How can we discern between timeless instruction and cultural instruction?
This passage is filled with instruction that applies to us today, even outside of the cultural context Paul was writing to. These truths about God's true design for marriage all point us to the worship of Jesus.
Through Christ, we've received the freedom to love others. But what can this look like in our lives today?
This week, we unpack practical applications, discuss how the passage hit each of us, and consider what it really means to glorify God in life.
Paul tackles the topic of Christian freedom.
What's our Christian freedom and how do we then live freely?
Brock joins us for this week's AfterWord as we discuss some hard questions surrounding the text.
- How did this passage strike you?
- How has an improper view of God and/or sin played out in your own life in the past?
- How can we fight against the sin of complaining?
- What are some ways God provides escape from temptation?
Idolatry is a serious and pervasive sin, and it often presents itself in ways that we would not expect.
How can we "flee from idolatry?"
Giving up our rights to build gospel bridges. That's the main theme of chapter 9 that Jon showed us in his sermon.
As we process that a bit more, we first explore a couple of clarification questions related to the text (Was it only Corinth in which Paul didn't receive financial support? Is his instruction here primarily targeting our interactions with unbelievers or believers or both?), and then we spend the bulk of our time talking through present day application.
- In Fort Collins, what are some examples where we might give up our rights for the sake of the gospel?
- What are some present day examples where we might conform to others for the sake of the gospel?
Paul expands on the theme of surrendering our rights as Christians by exploring one key question: How are we called to give up our rights to build gospel bridges?
We have received many freedoms through Christ, but with that comes navigating how to love others more than we love our own rights.
This week, our conversation largely focuses around that idea, and we explore questions like:
- What are some things that we need to be willing to sacrifice for the sake of loving others?
- How can we discern when it's appropriate to challenge the expectations of others and when we would be sinning against them?
- How did this passage hit you personally?
Are we willing to lay aside our own rights and freedoms out of love for other people?
Paul challenges the Corinthian church to not let their own knowledge interfere with their ability to love their brothers and sisters well.
Rather than exploring specific questions, we process our own thoughts and questions from the three main points of the sermon:
- Marriage is a worldly pursuit
- Marriage is a divided devotion
- Marriage is a practical decision
While this passage may seem like a commercial against marriage, it is really a call to be fully devoted to Jesus whether we are single or married.
How can we fight to make our pursuit of Jesus our priority, no matter our season of life?
The conversation around marriage and divorce is difficult to navigate. We begin to scratch the surface of this with some questions like:
- Why is divorce so prevalent today?
- What is the difference between separation and divorce? When could separation be an option?
- What are some of the exceptions for marriage?
Marriage is a God-given gift that serves as a reflection of Christ's unending and sacrificial love for us. However, sin has tainted this gift, creating certain situations that may lead to exceptions to marriage.
In all of the highs and lows of human relationship, we can be reminded of one eternal truth: We belong to Christ, no matter where we are in life.
We tackle the beginning of 1 Corinthians 7 with not one, but two married couples (and Betty)!
No matter what stage of life you find yourself in, the truths of this passage hold a lot of relevance, and it is vital to have these conversations. Some questions we cover are:
- How can we view singleness as a gift?
- If you are single and don’t want to be, how do you embrace this season?
- Why does the church tend to avoid conversations around intimacy and sex?
- What is some of the baggage people can bring into marriage that can make physical intimacy challenging?
Paul turns his attention to another topic brought to him by the church in Corinth - essentially, Is it good to abstain from sex?
In answering that question, Paul focuses upon the gift and purpose of physical intimacy within a marriage. In doing so, he also touches upon singleness.
Paul provides for us a theology of the body. In this episode we unpack that a little bit and ask questions like:
- Can this text be used more broadly about how to treat the body, or does it apply more narrowly specifically to sexual immorality?
- What are some ways God uses to take good theology and head knowledge like this and move it into our hearts and how we then live?
- What are some ways parents can talk about this topic with their young kids?
We want to hear from you! Please send any questions or comments to info@thetownchurch.org.
Paul uses three rhetorical questions to illuminate the relationship between a Christian and sexual immorality. Rather than focusing on all of the physical and emotional and relational consequences that can occur, Paul offers us a theology of the body.
How should we handle conflict within the church? This week, we unpack this topic with a few questions for discussion:
- How do we identify "trivial" cases?
- How do we discern when it is best to suffer wrong?
- Can we defend ourselves without sinning?
We want to hear from you! Please send any questions or comments to info@thetownchurch.org.
Our time in 1 Corinthians has centered around one theme: we are called to be saints together. This passage speaks into that theme as we consider how to approach conflict within the church as saints.
This passage covers a very difficult concept, bringing up a lot of questions around how to rightly handle sin.
- How does Paul's instruction to the church to disassociate with an unrepentant believer apply to one-on-one relationships like friendships and family?
- How does this fit with Jesus' instruction in Matthew 18 about dealing with someone who sins against you?
- What are some ways forward to give and receive feedback about our sin well?
How are we to live in light of the sacrifice of Christ?
As Paul deals with sin that has impacted the church, we see how he calls them to deal with this sin, knowing Christ has been sacrificed on their behalf.
We have all received our gifts, skills, and abilities from God. How do we hold these in a way that does not diminish them or puff us up? How can the reality that we are receivers in Christ impact our daily lives?
On this special Cinco de Mayo edition of the AfterWord, we discuss a hard-hitting question: Where are the best tacos in town?
Pride is a deeply rooted issue in the Corinthian church—one that distorts their understanding of who they are as Christians. In this passage, Paul reminds them (and us) of true identity in Christ.
We desire for our view of God to become more and more accurate over time. Our hearts respond to God further revealing himself to us with a growing love for God. As a church we have called this spiritual formation rhythm Doctrinal Formation.
The primary place our view of God is accurately formed is in the Bible. To this end, we hosted a panel conversation discussing the book of Jonah.
We asked several men and women to study the book beforehand and then get together to share the fruit of their study, with a special eye to teasing out what the book of Jonah says God is like.
We hope this is the first of many future panel discussions to come. Enjoy!
In the church, we are constantly reminded that our identity is found in Christ alone. What does it look like to live this out practically?
Other questions we explore:
- How have we (or people we know) lived in ways that the world may view as foolish?
- What difference does it make to us that our commendation comes from God?
Additionally, we learn how to properly pronounce "legume."
Our hearts are quick to look for belonging and significance in things of the world. Paul reminds us in this passage that we receive our commendation from God alone because we belong to Christ.
This Easter, we celebrated Jesus' victory over death by looking at the story of Thomas.
Thomas, like so many of us, needed to see proof of God's work to believe. When we sit in our own doubt, where can we look to see proof that God is faithful and will meet us in our doubt?
This week, we take some time to unpack the big themes that Paul focuses on in 1 Corinthians 3.
What does the milk vs. solid food analogy really mean? How can we view the idea of the rewards we receive as Christians?
While we don't come to full understanding of these topics, the images Paul provides give us a glimpse of how God is at work.
Paul uses a variety of pictures to help communicate truth to his readers.
All of these pictures point back to the profound truth of the gospel and the unity we are meant to have as those who belong to Christ.
1 Corinthians 2 reminds us of one vital truth: the gospel is revealed to us by the Holy Spirit, because of the grace of God. This profound truth has a lot of implications to us as Christians, and it opens up some questions about sharing the gospel.
Some questions that we unpack this week:
- What are things that motivate us to share our faith?
- What discourages us from sharing our faith?
- Verse 16 says "...we have the mind of Christ." How does this hit your heart?
True wisdom is granted to Christians solely through the power of the Holy Spirit. We do not come to understand the gospel on our own—it is only by the grace of God that He reveals Himself to us.
How should we respond to this profound truth?
This week, we discuss the foolishness of the cross, how we desire to experience God, and potatoes.
How does being saved by the foolishness of the cross make a difference in our lives? Do we seek out intellect or emotional/miraculous experiences? How can we we seek those things in light of the cross?
In the final section of 1 Corinthians 1, Paul makes a bold proclamation: To those who belong to God, the word of the cross is power.
In a world that views this truth as foolishness, how can we cling to the cross?
Division in the church can be caused by a number of factors, most of those forming us in some significant way. Today, we explore what some of those may be and how to use discernment when it comes to the things that do influence us.
What examples come to mind that cause division in the church? How can we use discernment when we evaluate the teachers we read, listen to, or follow? Who are you influenced by?
Division is born from a variety of circumstances, disrupting the unity we are meant to have as a church.
What causes division in the church? What can we cling to that truly unites us as a Body?
We are joined by two special guests this week as we unpack a painful yet important topic: pride.
Where do we see pride express itself in our lives? What false view of God does pride tend to create? Of the five graces mentioned in the sermon, which is the most challenging for you to accept? The most encouraging?
The underlying issue being addressed in Paul's letter to the Corinthian church is pride. While it may not always manifest in the same ways, pride is just as present in our own hearts as it was in theirs.
The question to keep in mind as we explore this passage is this: What true view of God will correct our prideful view of ourselves?
The conversation this week revolves around how to remain unified as a church, largely focusing in on a a few key questions: What are reasons to leave a church? How can we maintain unity in the midst of disagreement?
These questions just scratch the surface of what we will be diving into through our time in 1 Corinthians.
By of the grace of God, we are called together as saints. This truth helps launch us into a new series through the book of 1 Corinthians.
This week, we get to wrap up the book of Ruth by hearing from our listener!
What did God stir up in our hearts through our time in Ruth?
Ruth ends with a beautiful picture of redemption. This redemption not only extends to those in the book, but it also extends to us through the work of the True Redeemer.
In the midst of grief in Ruth, we begin to see clear evidence of God's lovingkindness.
- How have you seen God's kindness in your own life?
- What encouragement can we find in seasons where it is difficult to be hopeful?
God's kindness is often revealed in unlikely ways through unlikely people.
In this passage, God's deep love and kindness is evident in the lives of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz.
In this episode, we process through some tough questions relating to God's providence. While we may not arrive at definite answers, these conversations allow us to see a fuller picture of what God's providence really means.
- What is the difference between sovereignty and providence?
- Is God providential over sin?
- How do we reconcile God's providence with the choices and plans we make in our own lives?
Ruth 2 reminds us of a critical truth: God is over all things all the time. Whether it's in our plans, our kindness toward others, or our provision, we can see God's loving, fatherly hand at work.
As we press onward in Ruth, we revisit the question: How do we walk well with others in grief? How can we discern when it's best to listen or to direct others to truth?
Additionally, we explore some other questions: Are there things that tend to blind us to the big picture of what God is doing? In another passage filled with grief, how can we see what God is like?
This passage gives us a glimpse into Naomi's grief as she returns to Bethlehem. Through it all, Ruth remains loyal to her mother-in-law, setting the stage for the greater redemption that is to come.
When facing intense grief and loss, our feelings often lead us to question God and His character.
How can we allow our head knowledge to guide us in those seasons? What encouragement can be given to those who may experience this dissonance between the head and heart? How can we walk with others well through these seasons?
If you read this, please refer to Eric as "Monster Slayer" from now on.
Ruth opens with a story of deep grief marked by loss, famine, and separation from God.
Although this is a heavy beginning, it sets the scene for restoration that is to come.
Bible intake, prayer, corporate worship, community, and doctrinal formation are a few rhythms that aid in our spiritual formation. This week, we spend our time discussing how these rhythms have been fruitful and challenging in our own formation.
Our rhythms shape us. Whether that's who we spend time with, what we eat, or what we watch, we are influenced by the things we regularly partake in.
The same is true for our spiritual rhythms. This week, we explore what those are and how they form us to look more like Christ.
On a very full AfterWord, we discuss what it has looked like to to create space to hear from God.
What does space look like for each of us? How have we seen the Spirit work in that? Are there moments we've experienced God in unexpected ways, and how can we discern that those moments are really from the Spirit?
Now that we know the aim of spiritual formation and how our love for God is able to grow, a question that likely has been developing is this: What is our own role in spiritual formation?
This week, that question is answered by examining how we receive God's revelation of Himself and how we hear the Spirit.
This week, we discuss our response to God's love for us and the ways we are shaped by the objects of our love.
Discussion questions:
- What are things we love, and how do they shape us?
- Is our own love for God ALWAYS a response to His love for us?
- Since God is the one that reveals His glory to us, are there things that we do that keep us from seeing and responding to his glory?
Last week, we covered the aim of spiritual formation and how our love for God influences how we live.
That leads us to a new question: How does our love for God grow? This question is answered by defining what love for God really means and considering how this love shapes us.
When you think back on your life, what has spiritual formation looked like for you? Has the key emphasis been a growing love for God? What are some pitfalls we can face when we view love for God as the main goal of spiritual formation? We examine these questions and more on this week's Afterword.
Please bear with Vince's hosting skills. It gets better.
The term "spiritual formation" is often defined in different ways by different people.
As we enter into a short series on spiritual formation, two pivotal questions are examined: What is the true aim of spiritual formation? How does that connect to the way we live?
Our series through Advent has made it clear that God chooses the lowly and imperfect to accomplish His purposes. As we conclude the Advent season, we celebrate the coming of Jesus, who is enough.
Brock joins us this week as we reflect on Sunday's sermon.
- How does the fulfillment of prophesy we've seen throughout Advent increase our own certainty in the validity of Scripture?
- Are there times we've wrestled with the reliability of the Bible?
The visit of the wise men is an important story in the Christmas narrative, especially as we consider how these Gentile men even knew about this prophesied Jewish Messiah.
From Genesis to Revelation, God has declared that the gospel will reach every nation. God's heart for the whole world is why we, like the Magi, get to know Christ and worship Him as our Lord.
As we look at Christ's birth, it is evident that God was clearly at work in each piece of this story. From fulfillment of prophecy to the details given to the shepherds, none of this happened by chance.
In our conversation today, we address some other questions this story brings up:
- How have we seen God clearly orchestrating events in our own lives?
- Is there any relevance to the angel appearing to the shepherds?
- Especially for those who've grown up in the church, the familiarity of the Christmas story can often make us numb to the beauty of it. Do we have any practices in place that have helped us push against this?
As we consider the gospel, do we see it as good news of great joy? What causes us to neglect to see it this way?
This passage reminds us of the significance of Christ's arrival to earth and challenges us to consider whether the gospel spurs us on to joyful worship.
We are joined this week by none other than Jon P. Pfeil to unpack Zechariah's prayer and the way his story hits our hearts.
Are we entering into this Advent season with joy? How did Mary and Zechariah respond differently to the news Zechariah brought? When we don't see God fulfilling the desires of our hearts, how can we find encouragement in who God is and what He is accomplishing?
In Zechariah's prayer at the end of Luke 1, we see what it looks like to joyfully worship God for who He is.
With this as our guide, how can our own hearts be drawn to joyful worship?
It's Advent! This week we discuss our own practices for the Advent season and zoom into the Magnificat with some helpful questions from Austin.
- How do we slow down and prepare for Advent?
- How should we approach songs/poetry that we encounter in the middle of narrative sections of the Bible?
- Why did Mary choose these themes as she praised God?
- What comfort can we bring to those who are sitting in seasons of long silence and waiting for God's deliverance?
We enter into Advent by looking at The Magnificat, Mary's Song of Praise. Her joyful worship is a response to God's glorious mercy.
According to this passage, how does God reveal Himself through His mercy?
This week, we get to hear stories from listener of how God moved in hearts through our time in Colossians.
Before that, we unpack a couple of questions from the text: How have we seen collaboration among local churches? What role do our own stories play in prompting encouragement and worship in the Christian life?
The conclusion of Colossians provides a glimpse into the Church and how it functions as one body with many members.
In this passage, Paul calls the church to be faithful in prayer and in seeking opportunities for the gospel.
How would we describe our own prayer life? What is an encouragement for someone who is struggling with prayer? What can it look like to engage in gospel opportunities now, rather than just in the future?
Do we seek out gospel opportunities wherever we are planted? Is this a focus of our prayers?
In this passage, Paul encourages the church to pursue opportunities to share the gospel and provides instruction in how to pray.
This week from The Loft, we share how this text hit each of us personally. We also recognize that the household roles highlighted in the passage do not apply to everybody, so we talk through a few different scenarios that fall into different categories.
Regardless of where we find ourselves, the most important thing for us to see through this text is that our pursuit of relationships is meant to point us to the glory and lordship of Christ.
If we believe Jesus is Lord over all things, this should influence the way we pursue relationships. In this passage, Paul specifically addresses how Jesus can be honored through relationships within the household.
This week, two special guests join us as we consider what it means to put on the new self.
- What personally stuck out in this passage? Anything particularly encouraging or convicting?
- How do we think about the tension between the necessity for God's enabling grace to do anything good and Scripture's clear commands for obedience?
- Are you willing to share particular sins are you are battling (or have battled) and some practical ways you've put sin to death and grown in godliness?
This passage serves as a call to action for those who have been raised with Christ. One important question forms the foundation of our response: Is our way of life consistent with who we are through Christ?
In Eric's return as host, we approach some important topics and how it looks to navigate those as Christians.
- What are some philosophies / worldviews common in our culture that could be examples of what Paul is warning the believers in Colossae about? What's an example of one that we've personally wrestled with?
- What are some red flags that a particular philosophy or practice we hold to, or the way we hold to it, is becoming what Paul warns us about?
- Paul also warns against empty practices - so how do we approach spiritual practices in our lives?
This week's passage reminds us that any way of thinking or personal practice that has no root in Christ is empty, giving us nothing. Paul calls the church to continue in the faith and stand firm on what is true.
Eric is back! This week, we welcome Eric back and get to hear a bit about his sabbatical.
We also unpack this week's sermon with a few questions:
- Are we facing suffering as a direct result of our faith? Why or why not?
- What does suffering look like in an American context?
- What are things that we've held too closely that started out about Jesus but have drifted elsewhere?
This week's passage directs us to a few important questions: Where is our commitment to Jesus, His gospel, and the Church? Are we willing to endure the suffering that comes from boldly proclaiming the gospel?
This week, Vince, Kirsten, and Betty reflect on things that may stand in the way of seeing Christ as Lord over creation, redemption, and reconciliation. If we truly believe that Jesus is preeminent, how should this change the life of a Christian?
Additionally, The Loft gets some exciting updates in preparation for Eric's return next week.
This passage proclaims the complete supremacy of Christ, reminding us that He is Lord over everything. With these rich theological truths in mind, how can our worship be transformed?
The AfterWord is back with a brand new season and a brand new studio!
This week, we take time to express gratitude, look back at how discipleship has impacted our lives, and consider how we hope our affections are raised for Jesus through this upcoming series.
Some questions for discussion:
- Why can it be difficult to express gratitude for other people?
- Who are people you are thankful for?
- How has discipleship impacted your life?
- What pieces of Paul's prayer in verses 9-14 hit your own heart?
- How do you hope your affections are raised for God through Colossians?
We begin Colossians with an introduction to the context of the book and the central theme of this series: Christ is all.
This letter opens with thanksgiving and a prayer of encouragement for the church at Colossae. These verses serve as a model for us in our own prayers and a reminder of the qualifying work of the gospel.
Last week, Vince led us through the vision of The Town Church. This week, three of our elders lead us through the mission of the church, which is broken into four categories. These four categories show us how we can practically live out the church's vision to see the gospel transform everything.
As a church, our vision is to see the gospel transform everything. This week, we launch our Vision and Mission series by narrowing in on the gospel and its transformative power.
This week, we get to hear from all of you! Vince reads out responses to the question posed to the church: How did this series through 1 and 2 Samuel raise your affections for Jesus?
The book of 2 Samuel concludes by demonstrating once again how God uses our own sinful motives to fulfill His purposes and bring glory to His name. Through this, we are reminded of the true and perfect King who leads His people to right worship.
This week, we explore the gospel themes woven throughout 2 Samuel 21 and 22, and we also lean into prayer and the patience of God.
How have we recognized our own lack of prayer in certain situations in life, and what draws us to finally seek the Lord? When it seems like justice is delayed, how can we still trust God?
All of Scripture is meant to point us toward Christ and the Gospel. This week's sermon explores the key Gospel themes presented in 2 Samuel 21 and 22.
2 Samuel 20 looks at three different types of people: the worthless or rebellious, the seemingly faithful, and the faithful. How do we see those categories play out in the world today? What do expressions of false faithfulness look like? Can we think of times when we tend to be inconsistent in our own character?
Bonus: Betty brings the best podcast snack to the studio!
2 Samuel 20 begins with a rebellion against David and ends with a glimpse of who has remained faithful to him. Throughout the passage, we also see men who seem faithful to the king, when in reality their loyalties lie elsewhere.
This inconsistency in character challenges us look inward and consider what our fruit reveals about the abundance of our own hearts.
This week, the king returns home.
How did David get to a place where his response was to pardon, give, and bless? What can we learn from the characters' responses to David's actions? What "wilderness experiences" have we walked through, and how have we grown from them?
Throughout this passage, we see David extending mercy and kindness to those who do not deserve it. His actions point us to a perfect King who pardons abundantly out of His deep love for us.
Another special guest joins us as we explore more of 2 Samuel and its characters.
How have we seen David change throughout these past couple of weeks? What do we learn about Joab's character, and how does he contribute to the changes in David? As we continue pushing through heavy passages, where can we look for hope?
The pattern of trouble and brokenness continues for David and his family as Absalom is killed, ending his rebellion. Through this story of destruction and grief, our hearts are pointed even more toward the coming King and the restoration He provides.
Guided by Proverbs 19:21, the sermon led us to see that despite the many plans man might make, God's purposes will always stand. We continue that conversation in this week's AfterWord by exploring a few questions: Does this Proverb elicit comfort or fear? How can we hold plans our own plans loosely? What does it look like to submit to and discern good counsel?
In his continued plot to overthrow David, Absalom seeks out counsel from Ahithophel and Hushai. While many plans are made in the minds of these men, we are reminded that the purposes of the Lord will always stand in the end.
This week, we examine the characteristics of the two central figures of this passage: Absalom and David. What can we observe about their character from the text, and what can we learn through them?
Additionally, we learn what Jon's favorite condiment is (hint: it's not generally identified as a condiment)!
Conflict between rebellion and surrender are displayed in this passage through Absalom and David. Absalom's rebellion puts David in a challenging position, requiring a response from the king.
How does David respond to his circumstances, and what can we learn through him?
This week, we continue to examine the effects of sin on David and his family. How can we zoom out enough to see the long-term consequences of sin in our own lives? What does redemption and hope look like in situations that we may never understand?
We recognize that the heaviness of these chapters may speak directly into your own story. If you find yourself in this position, our desire is to support you and connect you with resources as you walk through these things.
Patterns of sin and its consequences continue in David's family, leading to grief, anger, and murder. The heaviness of these chapters points us to the hope we have in Christ-- hope of restoration, renewal, and the eternal weight of glory that is to come.
David makes a series of destructive decisions, leading us to see God's discipline in David's life. How can we discern between discipline and trials? How do we see David respond throughout these chapters, and what can we learn from these responses?
David, the king anointed and established by God, makes a series of decisions that are displeasing in the eyes of the Lord.
Through David's sin, we see the Lord's loving discipline and His work of redemption in David's life. This passage opens our eyes to the reality of our own sin and points us toward the ultimate redemption accomplished through Christ!
David is settling into his role as king and is pointing us forward to see glimpses of Jesus! How do you relate with Mephibosheth? How do the events related to Mephibosheth reveal the beauty of the gospel for our own lives?
Now that God has established David's throne in Jerusalem, David's attention turns both outward in military battles as well as inward in caring for the remnant of Saul's family.
Through it all, we see greater and greater glimpses and longings for the future coming King Jesus!
David desires to set up Jerusalem as the capital city as well as the worship city for the people of God. God has created us to worship him - and all of life points us to him. This week we discuss the seriousness of the worship of God.
What stands in your way of worshiping God? What helps you as you continue to pursue the worship of God, and in what Olympic event is Betty competing?
All things in our lives are meant to point us back to the reality that we were created to worship the Creator.
2 Samuel 6-7 remind us that God desires to be worshipped fully and rightly, and His ultimate plan is His eternal worship.
David's journey through 1 & 2 Samuel so far has been characterized by waiting. This week, we discuss the reality of waiting in the Christian life.
How can we encourage others to wait faithfully? What are some pitfalls to avoid? How can we learn to see God at work in the waiting?
Since his anointing, David has sat in a long, messy season of waiting. In 2 Samuel 5, we finally see David step forward as king. How can we learn to wait well through David's example?
This week, we explore what it looks like to live in the tension of knowing God is sovereign in a broken, sinful world.
What are ways we see God's Word leveraged for our gain in our own culture? How do we stand firm on theological truths while still being sensitive to the needs of others?
BONUS: Vince is back!
As sin and all the mess it creates is constantly being exposed, our hearts should be asking: what is God's relationship to the mess of sin? This question guides us through the heavy events of 2 Samuel 2-4.
In this week's AfterWord, we enter into 2 Samuel by discussing relationships, forgiveness, and God's sovereignty. How have we seen God teach us through sin, pain, or relationships? How have we personally cultivated deep relationships? What has pursuing forgiveness looked like in our own lives?
At the start of 2 Samuel, David learns of Saul and Jonathan's deaths, leading to mourning and lamentation. In these events, we see how God sovereignly uses all things to teach us and reveal more of Himself.
This week, we examine how a perfectly holy God brings forth His judgement upon sin. Some questions were:
- What does engaging the lost look like in your life?
- How do you consider God's justice? Is there a difference between justice and fairness?
- What are ways you have personally seen the devastating effects of sin?
In a heavy conclusion to the book of 1 Samuel, our view of God's faithfulness expands, allowing us to see the consistency of His character toward His children and His enemies.
This week, another guest joins us as we consider God's faithfulness in 1 Samuel 29-30. Some questions for application:
- How has God's faithfulness shown up in unexpected ways in your life?
- How do you see God's faithfulness in your life right now?
- Which of the four subpoints (God's faithfulness in the unexpected, anguish, rejoicing, and in unconditional ways) stands out most to you?
God's steadfast faithfulness is in full display as the story focuses back in on David. Despite David's actions and imperfections, God continues to provide in unexpected ways, proving over and over that He will always remain faithful.
Today, we are joined by a special guest as we discuss 1 Samuel 28. We discuss some of the details of the passage and narrow in on two main application questions:
- How have you handled it in the past when you felt God was silent?
- When God seems silent and you are desperate, to whom or what do you tend to turn?
AND: Which animal is more frightening, a rattlesnake or a mosquito?
How do we respond when we perceive that God is silent? In 1 Samuel 28, Saul takes matters into his own hands, leading to desperate actions and his eventual defeat.
After what seems like endless pursuit from Saul, we see David grow weary of doing good, leading him to seek refuge amongst the Philistines. Rather than continuing in faithfulness, his endurance wavers.
Where do we see the call to endure in our own lives? How do we actively fight against giving up when we grow weary?
1 Samuel 26-27 serve as a call to not grow weary of doing good. In these chapters, David's endurance falters as Saul continues to pursue him. However, the weakness of this king reminds us of the strength of the True King who endured for us.
This week, the AfterWord takes on the great outdoors, so prepare yourself for traffic sounds and bicycle bells!
As we enjoy the sunshine, we discuss the heart of David in both chapters and take some time to reflect on the character of Abigail, a hero in this story.
We also consider a few questions for application: How do you discern if God is speaking through others who claim to be speaking for God in your life? Can you think of a time God redirected you and then later affirmed that redirection?
In this passage, we see a stark contrast between when David trusts God's plan and when he trusts his own plan. One side is characterized by humility, confession, and repentance; the other by pride, vengeance, and an unrepentant heart. Through all of this, David's shortcomings remind us how much greater Christ is.
Join us this week as we unpack 1 Samuel 22-23 and discuss what it looks like to sit in seasons of waiting.
ALSO: Reach out if you are up to the challenge of taking Vince on in a game of tetherball!
Questions for application: Are you currently waiting for God to answer a certain prayer in your own life? Why do we struggle to ask God questions and wait for his response? How can we wait responsibly?
In 1 Samuel 22-23, we see how the Lord protects, guides, and uses the leaders He has put in place. Despite David's circumstances, he still turns to worship, trusting God's unending faithfulness.
(Psalms for reference: Psalm 54; Psalm 57: Psalm 142)
This week, we reflect on God's faithfulness and mans' sinfulness.
Although sin always leads to destruction, we also know God is always faithful. How have we seen that in our lives or in examples around us?
What is YOUR favorite thing about God? Email betty@thetownchurch.org to share!
In 1 Samuel 21, we see a beautiful picture of the gospel and God's mercy toward sinners. David, the "hero" of the story, fears man rather than God, and this lack of trust leads him toward sin and its consequences. In His kindness, God rescues David, reminding us of God's grace toward us through Christ, the true hero of Scripture.
This week, we are joined by two very special guests as Eric takes us through some reflections on 1 Samuel 18-20.
Are we currently in an "in-between" season? How have we seen the Lord bring us through previous seasons of waiting? Can painful "in-betweens" really be part of God's plan?
1 Samuel 18-20 marks the turning point in David's relationship with Saul, resulting in events that seem like a major detour between David's anointing and eventual reign as king. However, we know that this "in-between" season is still a piece of God's overall plan, and David's example teaches us how to live in the midst of waiting.
In 1 Samuel 17, we see David's anger over Goliath's opposition to the Living God, and he defeats Goliath for the glory and honor of God.
How do we respond to the things in our own culture that directly oppose God? How does dwelling on the details of our lives cause us to overlook the greater picture of God's glory?
1 Samuel 17 tells the story of one of the most well-known showdowns in history: David and Goliath. At its heart, this passage is not about us; rather, it is about the glory and honor of God. It reveals to us that God will never allow opposition to stand against Him, and it challenges us to consider our own response to the things that directly oppose God.
This week, we reflect on the story of David's anointing and how God used an ordinary shepherd carry out His purposes. Additionally, we look at David's faithfulness to serve where he was needed as he waited for God's plan to unfold.
Please email info@thetownchurch.org to tell us what Vince's personalized license plate should be!
1 Samuel 16 introduces us to David, the youngest of the sons of Jesse and a simple shepherd. Although he was overlooked by man, God saw David's heart and chose him as the king of His people.
How does God use the ordinary, overlooked things in our own lives for His purposes? How can seeing more of God in these things shift our affection back towards Him?
This Easter Sunday, we celebrate what Paul identified as a message of first importance: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Although we know this event is difficult to believe, we can still rejoice in the hope of the resurrection and the promise it brings for eternity.
This week, we unpack two big words that were highlighted in the sermon: rejection and regret. How should we wrestle with the idea of rejection and the reality of our sin as Christians? What does "regret" really mean in this context?
Who has the best joke? Let us know!
1 Samuel 15 is a heavy passage that ends with God's rejection of Saul as king. It reveals just how deeply God hates sin, and it challenges us to consider our own view of sin and how that impacts our view of God Himself.
What are things we personally seek for security and peace of mind? Where do we see Saul's shortcomings as a leader in this passage? This week, we answer these questions and more as we dive a bit deeper into 1 Samuel 13 and 14 (or, in Eric's words, 1 Samuel 8, chapters 13 and 14).
In 1 Samuel 13-14, Saul's shortcomings as king come to life, reminding us that earthly leaders will always end up falling short. Despite these things, this passage also reminds us that God's presence will always be with His people.
What things are we seeking for security and peace of mind? How does the failure of these things to satisfy us point us back to God?
Today we unpack some of the main points from yesterday's sermon and examine patterns we've seen throughout 1 Samuel.
Why is it significant that Samuel continues to remind the people that they sinned against God by demanding a king? How can our hearts shift toward being grieved by our sin and not just the consequences of that sin? Why must we remain steadfast in our faithfulness to God?
AND: What is Eric's favorite ice cream/syrup flavor?
1 Samuel 11-12 reminds us that we do have an enemy who is trying to steal our affections and allegiance away from God. However, we also have a Savior who restores us and brings us back to the Lord.
What is our response to God's faithfulness to deliver us? How can we truly be faithful to Him?
Today, we wrestle through our own tensions surrounding God's plan to instate Saul as Israel's king. While we see many flaws in Saul's character, we also know that he is one of the many imperfect people the Lord has used to carry out His perfect plans.
Additionally, we hit on ways we have seen God reshape our own hearts both in the past and the present.
BONUS: Eric gets usurped from his hosting role!!
1 Samuel 9 and 10 introduce us to Saul, God's first chosen king for Israel. Although the events of this passage seem random, we know that they are all pieces of God's plan to appoint a king.
How do we see God directing us toward His plans in our own lives? How is He changing our hearts to prepare us for what He has before us?
How have we demanded things of God like Israel did? What was the outcome when He provided those requests? What things are we currently longing for that the Spirit brought to mind through yesterday's sermon?
Bonus: in a wild turn of events, Eric fails to answer today's intro question!
In 1 Samuel 8, Israel grows tired of the system of judges that God had set in place and demand a king.
Their dissatisfaction challenges us to consider ways we may be discontent with our own lives and how that can impact our view of God.
Today, the conversation on coincidences and the sovereignty of God continues. Do we view everyday occurrences in our own lives as under God's control? What specific ideas from these three chapters convicted our own hearts?
This episode begs the question: will Eric ever try pogo sticking again?
Does anything happen by coincidence? These chapters in 1 Samuel reveal God's providential hand in all things -- for His glory and for the good of His people.
What are we expecting from God in each of our lives? How do we move forward when we feel defeated? Our discussion of 1 Samuel 4 brings about these questions, as well as recognition of God's sovereignty and His faithfulness to do all He has promised.
TIP: don't keep your leftovers as long as Betty so you don't end up like her.
This week's passage challenges us to remember that God's plans are sovereign, even when they don't play out in ways we expect or desire.
We are reminded this week of how vital the Word of God is to the life of the Christian.
How do we personally engage with Scripture? What does it look like to remain in the Word even in seasons where it is more exhausting than fruitful? How have we sensed God speaking to us in our own lives?
We live in a world where the truth of God has been abandoned, and the absence of God feels as real as it did in the opening verses of 1 Samuel 3. However, we know God desires to be known, and He graciously gives us the means to know Him. Where do we find our own hearts as we exist in this culture? How can we seek God's presence through His Word?
Today, we flesh out some harder topics from yesterday's sermon and consider how the passage struck each of us individually.
ALSO: Eric uses "flesh out" correctly in a sentence!
This week's passage contrasts the rebellion of Eli and his sons with the righteousness of Samuel and his family. How does God respond to unrepentant hearts? What hope can we find in the midst of a dark story?
This week we flesh out some big questions from the passage, including the Lord's role in closing Hannah's womb, her heart behind her prayer, and...polygamy?
We begin our sermon series on 1 & 2 Samuel by exploring some important context of these books and how they point to the coming of the True King. Additionally, the beginning chapters of 1 Samuel show us the pain of Hannah and how the Lord met her in that pain.
In this episode, we tackle some difficult questions surrounding prayer, especially those that arise in seasons where prayer feels particularly hard. How do our own prayers interact with the sovereignty of God? Should we avoid praying when we have the wrong heart posture? What are personal examples of prayers that have not been answered in ways we expect?
Also, who was most likely to be a pastor in high school? Who was most likely to follow the rules?
Oftentimes, our prayers are filled with questions that appear to be met with silence. Prayers from Paul and Jesus Himself challenge us to see what is revealed when God answers our prayers, even if it is in ways we do not expect.
This week, we look at Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3 as an example of how to pray. It leads us to ask a few important questions: how do we approach God in prayer? What can we be seeking Him for in prayer? What is the ultimate end goal of prayer?
Today, we consider what it looks like to seek God for inner transformation rather than only the fulfillment of physical needs. Is it wrong to bring practical supplications before God? How do we each personally approach God in prayer?
The advent season concludes with the celebration that Jesus truly is the Christ -- the true God who dwelt among us and the Messiah who came to save his people from their sins.
This week, we discuss how the sacrifice of Christ inspires awe in each of us. Since we live outside of the sacrificial system, what rhythms help us remember the weight of Christ's sacrifice? How do we understand the relationship between God's holiness and His love?
Also, who does a better introduction: Eric or Betty? Send in your votes!
Today, we consider how Christ our Sacrifice inspires our awe of God.
What fundamental attribute of God is meant to inspire our awe? What allows an unholy people to have relationship with a holy God? How is the sacrifice of Christ the true and sufficient sacrifice?
We know that Jesus is fully God, and without this truth the entirety of the Christian faith would crumble. Is this something we've wrestled with before? How do we approach conversations with others who may be experiencing doubt?
This week, Kirsten finally answers Eric's intro question! (Plus: how do you pronounce "deity?")
How do we know that Jesus is truly God?
This week, we examine a few of the many passages in Scripture that point to the deity of Christ. Because we know this is true, we are confident that God Himself came down to earth, and this advent season (and every season) we can celebrate the truth that He did come to dwell with us.
This week, we discuss what joy looks like in the midst of the advent season. How can we define Christian joy? What disciplines do we have in place to seek joy this time of year? What things are trying to steal that from us this year?
Stick around until the end to hear Eric show off his beautiful voice!
As we enter this advent season, we are reminded in Matthew 2:1-12 that there is only one source of joy, and He deserves our joyful worship. However, there are two enemies of joy. What are they? How do we respond to those?
Our Gospel Stories podcast explores the unique and miraculous ways God has chosen to save individuals in our church body and continue to work in their lives.
In this episode, we get to hear Betty's story.
This week, Jon, Kirsten, Eric, and Betty reflect on Jesus' teachings from the Sermon on the Mount. How have we been challenged by these teachings? What new things has God been revealing to us, and how will those impact us as we move forward?
Please contact info@thetownchurch.org with your guess for who submitted this week's question to receive a prize from Betty!
We wrap-up the Sermon on the Mount with a reflection from Matthew. Jesus taught from Scripture like the scribes, but something was different. What set Jesus apart?
Jesus emphasizes the necessity of obedience when it comes to truly knowing Him and building our lives upon a solid foundation. Have we seen "fruit" that has deceived us into thinking we are walking in right obedience? What storms have we encountered in our own lives, and how have those revealed the foundation we are building upon?
And we consider an important question: are rolls really a Thanksgiving food?
This week, Jesus teaches us about two types of disciples and two foundations which we can build our lives upon. How should we respond to these truths?
Our Gospel Stories podcast explores the unique and miraculous ways God has chosen to save individuals in our church body and continue to work in their lives.
In this episode, we get to hear Brian's story.
Jesus warns us to beware of false teachers. What false gospels are we tempted to believe? How can we discern which teachers to trust when we cannot see the fruit produced in their lives?
Bonus: Eric fails to answer today's intro question, while Kirsten flawlessly knocks the question out of the park.
Continuing in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus moves to showing us how can we tell if what we are being taught is authentic or fake?
Jesus calls us to travel the narrow road. What are some ways we can discern which road we are on? How do we think about the narrow road being difficult and yet Jesus' yoke being easy? What role does God's sovereignty play in which we road we travel, and how does this impact our engagement with unbelievers?
PLUS: the best intro question ever asked so far!
Jesus uses two gates, two roads, two groups and two destinations to illustrate the Christian life.
Which road are you on?
Our Gospel Stories podcast explores the unique and miraculous ways God has chosen to save individuals in our church body and continue to work in their lives.
In this episode, we get to hear Liz's story.
In this episode, we explore some different nuances of the one verse in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount popularly known as The Golden Rule.
Given that many different religions and worldviews have a similar teaching, how is this command from Jesus distinctly Christian? How can it abused? How might this teaching apply in broken relationships?
BONUS: this episode holds the record to date for Highest Elevation Recording of The AfterWord!
Unlike our normal practice, we focus on only one verse today in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount - the so-called "Golden Rule."
This concept is widely used in many different world religions and worldviews - so what's distinctly Christian about Jesus' teaching here? What heart attitude underneath it all is Jesus getting at?
Jesus teaches us to ask, seek, and knock from our good Father. In this episode we explore some questions like - What about when he doesn't answer in the way we wanted? What should be our expectations in praying boldly to our good God? How has this passage been abused?
We also learn how many hotdogs Betty ate last night. Hint: it's more than 7.
After feeling the weight of Jesus' hard hitting sermon so far, he now provides some gentle encouragement by inviting us to ask, seek, and knock in prayer to our good Father.
But our asking, seeking, and knocking isn't primarily about the things we might commonly think it is.
Our Gospel Stories podcast explores the unique and miraculous ways God has chosen to save individuals in our church body.
In this episode, we get to hear Andy's story.
In this episode, we get a peek into the judgmental thoughts of some of our church members! How does Jesus instruct us in the topic of judging others? How does the gospel apply to our lives as we consider our own sin and the just judgment of God?
Jesus now turns to a larger theme of how his followers are to relate together. He starts this text with Judge not, that you be not judged.But do we really know what Jesus is saying? What's the underlying heart issue at play? And where does the clear biblical teaching that we are to lovingly warn each other of sin come in?
In this episode, we hear from Kirsten about her experience with anxiety, how this passage pushes on each of us, and how to care for those who wrestle deeply with anxiety.
In this text, Jesus says three times, "Therefore, do not be anxious..." Why? And what are some ways forward for those of us who do struggle with anxiety?
Our Gospel Stories podcast explores the unique and miraculous ways God has chosen to save individuals in our church body.
In this episode, we get to hear Jen's story - and the way God chose to use a church program as well as difficulty to save and grow her.
We explore further these questions: What does it mean to behold God's glory? What's the difference between valuing something and treasuring something? What of this world tends to master us personally? What does repentance look like for us personally?
And - we learn Betty makes her own milk. (!?!)
How is the Christian called to relate to the world?
Jesus continues to focus on our hearts, but now moves from righteous acts done in secret to our relationship to everything in this life. Jesus gives us a wake-up call we desperately need!
In this text Jesus assumes believers are fasting. We discuss more what fasting is, what it isn't, our own experience with it, and a few common questions concerning fasting.
"When you fast..." Jesus assumes we are fasting. But what is it? Why do we do it? What heart motivation do we have in it?
In this third of a series of three righteous rhythms Jesus points out we are called to as believers, Jesus again digs beneath the surface of the act itself and focuses on our heart. And as we explore that, we also take a step back and consider the Christian practice of fasting.
Our Gospel Stories podcast explores the unique and miraculous ways God has chosen to save individuals in our church body.
In this first episode, we get to hear Justin's story - and the way God chose to use one particular family to draw Justin to himself.
Our conversation focuses on how we currently approach prayer, where we are tempted to seek recognition from others in it, the mystery of prayer, and the underlying approach to prayer here that Jesus teaches.
Plus, Vince shares what animal he would be and why. Hint: it scurries.
From examining our approach in giving, Jesus now turns to our approach in praying. Whether praying is currently challenging or coming naturally for us, Jesus words here beckon us to a deeper relationship with the Creator of all things!
In this unique episode, many of our staff join us to reflect on the last year and share their hopes for the coming year.
Once a year we devote a Sunday gathering to work through the big picture pieces of where we want to go as a church (vision), how we'll participate in getting there (mission), and, new this year, our approach to maturing as Christians (spiritual formation).
This year we also included a few hopes we have for what God may accomplish this next year.
Because our time together included congregational input that was not on a microphone, this audio recording has been edited for clarity.
We explore some of the twists and turns in our hearts on the subject of giving based on Matthew 6:1-4. Do we still give if our heart motivation isn't right? How does good stewardship and responsibility fit in? What about sheer obedience?
Jesus continues his relentless focus on our hearts in a straightforward teaching on our giving.
In this episode we wrestle with several "what ifs" that naturally flow from Jesus' teaching challenging our perceived dearly held rights over our body, possessions, time and money. Loving our enemies and being perfect? This text makes our hearts squirm!
What rights do we as Christians have? In a hard hitting text this morning, especially for us as Americans, Jesus narrows in on what we must hold loosely as we follow him.
The issue of honesty and trustworthiness pervades so much of our lives. In this episode we wrestle with some of the ways this impacts our interactions. We also get to glory in the character of God that Jesus' teaching here points toward!
Jesus tackles the heart issue of honesty. Christian trustworthiness is to reflect the trustworthiness of God. And where we fall short, we have a gracious God who credits to us the perfect righteousness of Jesus!
In our longest episode to date, we tackle the challenging issues of adultery, lust, and divorce. These topics often leave people in the church feeling confused and, at times, judged. Our hope is to provide clarity around Jesus' words about the heart issues related to these topics.
In Matthew 5:27-32, Jesus states the law regarding adultery and then restates it to show the heart behind the law. Those who look at someone else's spouse with lust has committed adultery in their heart. Again, Jesus' greatest concern is the heart of obedience, not just the outward appearance.
Join us today as we consider Jesus' profound words about being the fulfillment of the Law and the prophets. This is a beautiful description of the gospel as Jesus prepares us for six laws and the heart issues underlying these laws. The first law is the prohibition against murder - and the heart issue of anger.
Join Kirsten Black, Vince Black, and Betty (Beefy) Horiuchi, as they discuss Jesus' declaration in Matthew 5:13-16 - "You are salt...you are light."
Also, find out who has the secret talent of DANCE!
The two books Vince recommended on prayer:
Water of the Word by Andrew Case (and his other books)
Prone to Wander by Duguid and Houk
John 1:1-18 (the prologue) has been called "the foyer" to the rest of the book. John prepares the reader to see more of Jesus, and in seeing more of Jesus the call is to believe that he is who he says he is. Jesus is God.
Based on our Vision and Mission as a church, and where we've been over the last years, we believe God is leading us toward health in a variety of ways!
Using Deuteronomy 6:1-9 as a guide, this seminar focuses on the discipleship of children in the home and "along the way."
Ecclesiastes 9:13-10:20**This is also our 4 year anniversary celebration. Learn about the history of what God has done in our 4 years as a church.