Sermons – St John United Methodist Church, Prospect, KY: Recent Episodes
St John United Methodist Church, Prospect, KY
Main Points1. The Imminent Return of Christ
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Explanation of how Jesus will come back for His church unexpectedly- Emphasis on the need to live each day in readiness for His return 2. The Transformation of Believers
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Discussion on how believers will be transformed into glorified bodies at the Rapture- Encouragement to live holy and sanctified lives in anticipation of this change 3. The Reunion with Christ
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Description of the joy and reunion believers will experience when meeting Jesus in the air- Assurance of being forever with the Lord in eternity
We can find comfort and assurance in knowing that Jesus Christ's return will be clear and unmistakable. This encourages us to remain steadfast in faith, knowing that Christ’s return is a definite future event. Believers should find hope and motivation in the promise that they will be gathered by Jesus' angels. This gathering signifies eternal reunion and fulfillment of God’s promises to His people. Be prepared, for the return of Christ will be sudden and evident. Live life in anticipation of meeting Him face to face.
Believers are called to endure faithfully through difficult times, understanding that such tribulations are part of the end-time prophecy. This endurance is an act of faith and trust in God's sovereign plan, even amid suffering. Jesus provided these signs as guidelines to prepare us spiritually. Let's stay vigilant, grounded in His word, and committed to spreading the gospel.
Join us for our 45th Anniversary Homecoming Celebration this year. We’ll have one extended service from 9:30 -11:30 a.m. with guest speakers James Atherton and Will Partin. We will also have special music from the Asbury Worship Collective. Be ready to take a walk down memory lane as we remember Saint John through the years.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez finishes our sermon series, “Evangelism”. Today, we are called to reflect on what it means to live out the Gospel. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:16 that we should let our light shine before others. Just as a city on a hill cannot be hidden, our lives, illuminated by God's love, should stand as beacons in the darkness.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series, “Evangelism”. Our testimonies hold significant influence and can powerfully impact those around us. In Revelation 12:11, the "word of their testimony" signifies the strength derived from individuals sharing their personal experiences with faith in Christ. These testimonies are a vital means of evangelism, allowing others to see the Gospel's transformative power in our lives.
Rev Dr. Iosmar Alvarez starts our new sermon series, “Evangelism”. Beloved, today we gather to on one of the most profound commands given to us by our Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 28:19-20: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." This is not merely a directive; it is the Great Commission, a call to action that reverberates through the ages, urging every believer to embrace the role of evangelism.
Rev Dr. Iosmar Alvarez finishes our sermon series, “Worship as a Lifestyle”. Today, as we gather in the presence of our loving and merciful God, we turn our hearts and minds to a powerful passage from the Apostle Paul's letter to the Romans: Romans 12:1-2. These verses provide a profound insight into what it means to live a life of true sacrificial worship.
Rev Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series, “Worship as a Lifestyle”. In John 4:23-24, Jesus provides a profound teaching on the nature of true worship: "But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people, the Father seeks to be His worshipers. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." This passage defines the essence of worship, highlighting the necessity of worshiping God not just through external rituals but with our whole being, aligning with His Spirit and His truth.
Guest Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our sermon series, “Worship as a Lifestyle”. As we actively seek, embrace, and allow God to restore His presence in our lives through repentance, obedience, and gratitude, we will experience transformation, joy, and victory in Him.
Pastor Steven Lundy continues our sermon series, “Worship as a Lifestyle”. He explores the consequences of losing sight of God's presence in our lives and the importance of seeking and preserving His presence.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series, and in this sermon, we delve into a captivating passage from 2 Samuel 6:11-12. It highlights the profound impact of hosting the presence of God. Our theme is "The Blessings of Hosting God's Presence," and our focus will be on understanding how Divine Favor, Spiritual Enrichment, and Personal Renewal manifest when we host God's presence in our lives.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez calls to set aside dedicated time for personal worship and prayer in the presence of God. To engage in corporate worship with reverence, joy, and humility. And lastly, use music, art, or other creative expressions to worship God in spirit and truth.
Is the bible credible, Is the bible reliable, and is the bible relevant? These are questions that have been asked throughout history but are being asked by more people today, especially by Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha. We as Christ followers should be able to answer this question because, even though there is evidence that there is a God all around us, the claim of Christ as Messiah comes directly from the recorded scriptures of the bible.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez ends our sermon series “The Bible & Social Issues” Today. I come before you with a heavy heart to address the sensitive and controversial topic of abortion. As followers of Christ, we are called to uphold life's sanctity and protect the most vulnerable in society. However, I understand that this issue is complex and polarizing, and I ask for your patience and understanding as we delve into the theological implications of abortion.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series “The Bible & Social Issues” Today. Continuing with Fearfully and Wonderfully made, he delves deeper into the beauty and complexity of the human body. He'll be focusing more on what the New Testament has to say.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series “The Bible & Social Issues” Today. As we delve into the beauty and complexity of the human body, let us remember that we are fearfully and wonderfully created in the image of God. Let this truth transform how we view ourselves and others, leading us to treat our bodies and those of others with reverence and love.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series “The Bible & Social Issues Today”. This sermon on divorce will focus on understanding God's heart and intention for marriage, highlighting the importance of commitment, forgiveness, and reconciliation in the context of divorce. It also addresses the struggles and challenges that divorced individuals and families face and how the church can provide support and care to help them heal and move forward in their journey. Ultimately, the sermon could emphasize the love, grace, and redemption that God offers to all, regardless of their past experiences.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series “The Bible & Social Issues Today”. In this sermon, we gather to discuss the topic of traditional marriage, he’ll guide us through a reflection based on the Word of God found in Genesis 1:27 and 2:24. These verses clearly outline the divine design for marriage as instituted by God Himself. In Genesis 1:27, we read that "God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them." This verse highlights the complementary nature of male and female as part of God's perfect plan for creation. It is through the union of man and woman that the image of God is fully reflected.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez begins our new sermon series “The Bible & Social Issues Today”. In this sermon, we’ll learn to embrace the absolute truth of God's Word and apply it to our lives and understanding of contemporary issues. And in conclusion, we are in a world that values relative truth, we must anchor ourselves in the unchanging truths of Scripture.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez finishes our sermon series “I Believe”. In this sermon, we come together to reflect on the final belief statement of the Apostle's Creed: the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. These beliefs are foundational to our Christian faith and offer us hope and assurance in God's promises.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series “I Believe” by focusing on understanding the third part of the Trinity and the role of the Church. Who is the Holy Spirit, and how do the work and gifts of the Spirit play out in believers' lives.
Our guest Pastor Ashlee Adkins speaks to us regarding the events of the Passion, the meaning of the cross and atonement, the historical and theological importance of the resurrection, and the resurrection as a source of hope.
Beloved in Christ, today we turn our hearts and minds toward a profound and central truth of our faith—the union of divine and human nature in Jesus Christ, His Only Son, Our Lord. This understanding is not merely theological speculation; it underscores every aspect of our faith and devotion.
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather to explore the first belief statement of the Apostle's Creed: "I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth." This foundational belief captures the essence of our faith in a God who is all-powerful and the ultimate creator of all things. Let us discover the evidence and arguments for the existence of God as our loving Father who created the heavens and the earth.
What do you believe? And how often do we think deeply about what we believe about as followers of Jesus, God, or spiritually? During this sermon series we are going to explore more deeply the beliefs we hold collectively as a universal church. We will see how these beliefs interact with our experiences, actions, and the results we see in our lives, families, communities, and the world.
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we come together to contemplate and reflect upon the powerful and profound doctrine of the resurrection of the dead. This belief, rooted in the teachings of scripture and affirmed throughout the history of the Christian faith, is a cornerstone of our hope and a central tenet of our faith.
Baptism is the initiation celebration of the believer's journey of faith. Through baptism, the believer is connected to the faith community to grow and mature in Christ. When a person is baptized, they are assimilated into the body of Christ. After baptism, the believer begins to take their first steps and profess their faith as a member of the baptized Body.
Today, we're going to explore the significant themes of faith, doubt, and the unwavering nature of God's love and power as we navigate the storms of life. Together, let's dive into the parallel passages in the book of Matthew to gain insight and strengthen our walk with God.
In today’s sermon, we will explore the Great White Throne Judgment described in Revelation 20:11-15. We will first observe the scene of the judgment, then interpret its meaning, and finally, apply it to our lives. We will see the significance of this judgment and what it means for us as followers of Christ. Our three main points will focus on the judgment’s severity, the finality of its verdict, and the ultimate destination for those who are judged.
According to Jesus, truth is a central concept in the teachings of Christianity. In the Bible, Jesus declares, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6), emphasizing the significance of truth in the context of spiritual salvation. Jesus highlights the importance of understanding and living by the truth, teaching that it sets people free (John 8:32). This reflects the belief that truth is not merely a concept but a guiding principle that leads to liberation and righteousness.
Today, we gather to explore the profound gift of free will that God has bestowed upon us. It is a gift that comes with immense power and responsibility, shaping not only our lives here on earth but also our eternal destiny. As we delve into the intricate connection between our free will and God's sovereignty, we may better understand our role in the divine plan.
As we gather today, we embark on a journey to explore the foundational doctrines that underpin our faith. Through this sermon series, we seek to gain a deeper understanding of these truths to fortify our faith and equip ourselves for meaningful conversations with those seeking answers. Today, we begin with the doctrine of original sin, a concept deeply rooted in Scripture and central to our understanding of humanity's fallen nature and the redemptive work of Christ.
Main Points: Denying Self and Taking Up the Cross Counting the Cost of Discipleship Embracing Sacrifice for the Sake of the GospelQuote: "No one can be a disciple of Christ without being willing to imitate Him in his suffering." - Thomas à KempisConclusion: As we rethink the church and our role as disciples, let us embrace sacrificial discipleship. May we deny ourselves, count the cost, and be willing to imitate Christ in His suffering for the sake of the Gospel.Prayer: Gracious Father, give us the strength and courage to take up our crosses and follow Jesus. Help us understand the cost of discipleship and empower us to embrace sacrificial living for the sake of the Gospel. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
We believe in making a difference by following Christ, offering hope, serving others, and loving everyone.Let us know you were here by checking in on the St John UMC app, or if you’re new, fill out a Connect Card at https://stjohnky.com/connectFollow along with the sermon in the St John UMC App!Get it on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details...Get it in the Apple Store: https://apps.apple.com/kw/app/st-john-umc/id1527931940
Pastor Ashlee Adkins and Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez have an informational session that will update and inform the congregation of new and exciting developments.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our sermon series reflecting on Mark 12:30-31. As we rethink church and relaunch our congregation, let us focus on growing in love. Let love be the defining characteristic of our church, cultivating it in our relationships and demonstrating God's love to the world.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez starts a new sermon series Rethinking Church: Embracing Change and Growth. The Prophet Habakkuk exhorts us with powerful words of trust and hope in God's perfect timing: "For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay Habakkuk 2:3, NIV . Today, we will delve into this scripture and reflect on its profound lessons about embracing God's timing in our lives.
This New Year's Eve morning, we listen to Minister Steven Lundy bring his message “Listen: Slow to Speak” based on James 1:19-26
This week Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez finishes our sermon series “Advent: A Season of Expectations”. Let us reflect on the profound significance and life-transforming impact of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As we delve into Galatians 4:4-7, we will explore three crucial reasons why the birth of Christ truly matters. May we be encouraged and inspired by these truths as we seek to live out our faith in practical ways.
This week Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our sermon series “Advent: A Season of Expectations”. The beginning of Mary’s Magnificat is one of my favorite portions of Scripture. A call to her true purpose. An ode to her Creator. A reminder of whom she was to magnify. I know with this season, it’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of ‘all the things.’ But just as Mary had to give God a hard yes to being the mother of the Messiah, we too are called to saying yes to encapsulating God in all we say and do, especially in this season; the season we long and expect the coming King of Kings. Let me impress upon you to say yes to God in a way you aren’t quite sure you can fulfill, even if you are overwhelmed and exhausted with an empty tank. Why in the world would I impress you to do this? Of all seasons? Because that’s exactly what Mary did. And because she did, her willingness provided us with the most wonderful gift of all – Jesus Christ.
This week Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez begins our new sermon series “Advent: A Season of Expectations”. Dear brothers and sisters, today we gather to explore the profound covenant of peace established by the Messiah, who’s coming was foretold by the prophets and fulfilled in Jesus Christ. As we delve into the scriptures, particularly Isaiah 9:6-7. We will unravel the divine plan of salvation, and the covenant promises that God has made with humankind throughout history. From the covenant with Adam to the establishment of the New Covenant through the Messiah, we witness the unwavering love and grace of God and the manifestations of His covenant with us.
This week Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez finishes our Stewardship Campaign sermon series “Kingdom Wealth and Stewardship”. possessions. We will be recognizing that our role as stewards is to faithfully manage the resources entrusted to us by God, using them wisely for His purposes. By trusting that as we are faithful in stewarding what we have, God can bless and multiply our resources, enabling us to be more effective in His Kingdom’s work. We understand that responsible stewardship will lead to heavenly rewards as we hear the Lord's "Well done" and share in His eternal joy.
This week Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our Stewardship Campaign sermon series “Kingdom Wealth and Stewardship”. We will be recognizing the potential harm that the love of money can cause, leading to spiritual bondage and the neglect of one's faith. By cultivating a heart of integrity in handling money, being content with what we have, and avoiding the temptations of materialism and excessive consumerism. We need to prioritize the pursuit of spiritual growth and investing in activities that have a lasting impact rather than acquiring temporary earthly possessions.
This week Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our Stewardship Campaign sermon series “Kingdom Wealth and Stewardship”. Throughout history, tithing has held a profound significance. We learned last week about tithing in response to God’s victory and his faithfulness (500 years before the law) with Abraham, and in response to a promise/God's vision in the House of God with Jacob represents a historic appreciation for God's provision and blessings. We also discussed tithing under the law commanded by Moses. Tithing has been an integral part of the worship and obedience to God. Emphasizing the provision of the Levites, the maintenance of the Tabernacle, and support for pilgrimages and feasts.
This week Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez begins our Stewardship Campaign sermon series “Kingdom Wealth and Stewardship”. Understanding the biblical principle of tithing as a foundational act of obedience and worship, giving the first fruits of our income to the Church of God. Going beyond tithing by willingly giving offerings, sacrificially contributing to specific projects, missions, or special needs, and demonstrating a heart of generosity. Embracing the call to help those in need through acts of charity and benevolence, recognizing that our resources are meant to bless others.
This week Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our sermon series “Foundations”. He speaks of the relevance of Acts 2:37-47 in our modern world. What does the early church have to say about what makes a healthy church?
This week Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our new sermon series “Foundations”. She speaks of Ephesians 5:21-32 and its relevance in the modern world. What does the early church have to say about families in the church? As one of our church’s values as a family focused church, how do we live into that?
This week Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez begins our new sermon series “Foundations”. Do you ever wonder what makes the Church so special? Additionally, what is the role of the church in the world? Furthermore, why do we gather in this sacred place week after week, and why do we entrust our spiritual growth and well-being to its leaders? However, today, we will be inspired and challenged by the words of Jesus in Matthew 16:17-19 to understand the significance of the Church and its authority. Moreover, we gather to reflect upon an important truth: the True Church is founded on Christ alone. In a world where attractiveness and external appeal often overshadow the essence of our faith, we must be vigilant in holding fast to the firm foundation of the Scriptures. Consequently, let us turn to Matthew 16:17-19 as our guiding text and examine the hallmarks of the True Church.
This week Pastor Ashlee Adkins completes our sermon series “Back to Basics”. She explores our Core Value at Saint John, we are Bible-Based. “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training in righteousness so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work” 2 Timothy 3:16-17
This week Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our sermon series “Back to Basics”. We are shifting our focus from fasting to engaging with the Word of God. She shares how God’s word changes us by amplifying how to be more Christ-like. When we believe that scripture is inspired by the Holy Spirit and believe in its authority, the Holy Spirit then transforms and changes our lens so we no longer view ourselves by the world’s standards, but by God’s standards.
Imagine engaging in a profound practice that brings you into an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit. That's what fasting is - a dynamic kingdom practice that supercharges your spiritual growth. Getting close to the Holy Spirit makes you stronger in your faith and opens doorways for God's power to flow within you and through you, playing an extraordinary role in your life and the church's life!
Brothers, and sisters in Christ, today we come together to explore the practice of fasting and its profound significance in our spiritual journey. In Mark 2:18-22, Jesus addresses questions about fasting, shedding light on the biblical definition while urging us to embrace its transformative power. As we delve into this topic, we will consider the diverse perspectives on fasting found in the Scriptures and understand the spiritual benefits and ultimate purpose behind fasting. #saintjohnumc #fasting
Today, Pastor Ashlee Adkins and Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez discuss the meaning behind discipleship in this question and answer session. Discipleship is the lifelong process of becoming that person who not only lives that way, but shows others how to do it also. That person must learn it, do it, and show it. That's the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20) in a nutshell; that we make disciples as we go, wherever we go, with whomever we come into contact #saintjohnumc #discipleship
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather to discuss a topic of utmost importance: the power of spiritual warfare. As followers of Christ, we are constantly engaged in a battle against the forces of darkness. Our Scripture reading from Luke 11:17-23 reminds us of the ongoing spiritual warfare we face and the ultimate triumph we have in Christ.Main Point 1: Recognizing the Reality of Spiritual WarfareScripture Reference: Ephesians 6:12 (NRSV)"For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."- Subpoint 1: Understanding the Battlefront: Explores the spiritual realm and the influence of evil forces.- Subpoint 2: The Deceptiveness of Our Enemy: Discusses how Satan deceives and tempts us.- Subpoint 3: The Impact on Our Daily Lives: Explores how spiritual warfare affects our thoughts, emotions, relationships, and decisions.RC Sproul quote: "We don't wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers. There are spiritual powers of darkness who wage war against God and seek to destroy His people."Main Point 2: The Authority and Power of JesusScripture Reference: Luke 11:20 (NRSV)"But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out the demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you."- Subpoint 1: Jesus' Authority over the Demonic Forces: Explores Jesus' power to cast out demons and His victory over them.- Subpoint 2: The Kingdom of God in Our Lives: Discusses how through Jesus' authority, we can experience the victorious reign of God in our lives.- Subpoint 3: The Role of Faith: Emphasizes the importance of faith in accessing the power of Jesus.RC Sproul quote: "Our confidence in spiritual warfare rests not upon our own abilities but upon the perfect victory of Jesus Christ."Main Point 3: Joining the Battle in ChristScripture Reference: Luke 11:23 (NRSV)"Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters."- Subpoint 1: Active Participation: Encourages believers to actively engage in spiritual warfare rather than being passive spectators.- Subpoint 2: Equipped for Battle: Discusses the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6 and the importance of prayer and Scripture in preparation for warfare.- Subpoint 3: Unity in Christ: Emphasizes the need for unity and cooperation among believers in fighting the spiritual battle together.RC Sproul quote: "The book of Ephesians tells us that we are engaged in a cosmic war. We must fight daily to mortify our flesh, tear down strongholds, and proclaim the powerful gospel of Jesus Christ."Application:Considering our discussion, let us apply these truths to our lives. Firstly, let us acknowledge the reality of spiritual warfare and seek to discern the enemy's tactics. Secondly, let us turn to Jesus, acknowledging His authority and seeking His power to overcome the enemy. Lastly, let us actively engage in the battle, equipping ourselves with the spiritual armor and standing united in Christ.Call to ActionWalking in the victory of our Lord Jesus ChristI challenge each one of us to examine our lives and ask ourselves: Are we actively participating in the spiritual warfare? Are we wearing the full armor of God? Are we standing united with our fellow believers? Let us not be passive spectators but active warriors, ready to unleash the power of Christ against the forces of evil.A. Recognize the battle1. Opening our eyes to the spiritual battle around us2. Seeking God's guidance dailyB. Equip ourselves1. Being rooted in God's Word2. Wearing the armor of GodC. Pray fervently1. The power of our prayers2. Committing to daily prayer for spiritual warfareConclusion:A. Understanding the necessity of spiritual warfare prayerB. Tapping into the true power of God through prayerC. Closing prayerDear friends, the power of spiritual warfare is real, but we have hope and victory in Jesus. Through His authority, we can triumph over the forces of darkness. Let us go forth, strengthened by His power, equipped with His armor, and united in His love. As we engage in spiritual warfare, may we never forget the words of Jesus: "In me, you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, NRSV).Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You today humbled by the revelation of the power of spiritual warfare. We acknowledge that we are not wrestling against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil. Grant us wisdom and discernment to recognize the enemy's tactics and to resist his deceptions. We thank You for the authority and power You have given us in Jesus Christ. Strengthen our faith, fill us with Your Holy Spirit, and equip us with Your armor to stand firm in the battle. Help us to unite as a body of believers, fighting together against the forces of darkness. May Your victory be our confidence, and may Your glory be manifested through our lives. In Jesus' mighty name, we pray. Amen.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our series "Unlocking the Power of Prayer"Prayer is a conversation with God that has the potential to bring about amazing breakthroughs and victories in our lives. In Luke 11:14-16, Jesus teaches us about the battle that takes place in the realm of prayer. Let us dive into this passage and see what valuable lessons we can learn.1. The Power of Prayer:a) Prayer Opens Doors: In verse 14, Jesus casts out a demon, and the people are amazed. It is a reminder to us that prayer has the power to break strongholds and bring freedom. Through prayer, we can experience deliverance, healing, and restoration.b) Persistent Prayer: Jesus highlights the importance of persistence in prayer. The challenge is not just to pray but to continue praying until we receive an answer. Our prayers should be marked by endurance and perseverance.2. The Battle Behind Closed Doors:a) Spiritual Opposition: In verse 15, some accused Jesus of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebub, the prince of demons. This accusation indicates the spiritual warfare that often takes place in the unseen realm. As we engage in prayer, we should be aware that there may be spiritual opposition seeking to hinder our prayers and discourage us.b) The Kingdom of God: Jesus responds to the accusation by explaining the nature of the battle. He asserts that if He casts out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon them. Our prayers tap into the power of God's kingdom, bringing His authority and dominion into our situations.3. The Significance of Unity:a) Kingdom Divided: Jesus uses the analogy of a divided house to illustrate the importance of unity. When families or communities are divided, they become weakened and vulnerable. In the context of prayer, unity among believers is essential for an effective spiritual battle.b) The Unstoppable Kingdom: Jesus declares that if one strong man guards his palace, his possessions are safe, but when someone stronger comes, they overpower him and take away his armor. In prayer, we tap into the strength of our God who is greater than any opposition. The unstoppable kingdom of God is at work through our persistent prayers.God bless,Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez
Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez continues our series "Unlocking the Power of Prayer"Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, this Sunday we will explore the transformative power of prayer as described in James 5:13-18. Prayer is a privilege and a means of grace given to us by our heavenly Father. Through prayer, we can draw near to God, experience His guidance and intervention, and witness His sovereign work in our lives. Let us delve into this passage and uncover the keys to unlocking the power of prayer.God bless,Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez
Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez continues with our series "Unlocking the Power of Prayer"In Luke 11:9, Jesus encourages us to ask in prayer, saying, "Ask and it will be given to you." This sermon will focus on the power of asking in prayer. When asking for provision, God is the ultimate provider, and we can bring our needs before Him in prayer. Whether it's physical provision, emotional healing, or spiritual strength, we can ask God for what we need. God desires to meet our needs and cares about the details of our lives.The Lord's Prayer teaches us to ask for forgiveness: "Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us." Prayer is a way to confess our sins and seek God's forgiveness. When we ask for forgiveness, we experience the cleansing and restoration that comes from God's grace. Prayer is not limited to the natural realm; it can tap into the supernatural power of God. We can ask God for miracles, healing, deliverance, and breakthroughs. Faith plays a crucial role in asking for miracles, and we must trust in God's sovereignty and timing.In conclusion, Prayer is a powerful tool given to us by God. Through prayer, we can seek His presence, His will, and ask for His provision and miracles. Let us commit to a life of prayer, unlocking the power and blessings that come from our relationship with Him.God bless,Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez
Continuing our series "Unlocking the Power of Prayer" Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez's sermon will explore the importance of seeking God in prayer #prayer
We are thrilled to invite you to this sermon that has the potential to transform the way you approach prayer. In this sermon, titled "The Call to Prayer," we will explore the teachings of Jesus in Luke 11 and delve deep into the significance of prayer in our lives as believers.Prayer is not merely a religious duty; it is our direct line of communication with the Creator of the universe. It is through prayer that we develop an intimate relationship with God, find guidance, and experience His presence in our lives. Yet, many of us struggle with questions about prayer, its relevance, and how to make it a vibrant part of our spiritual journey.During this sermon, we will unravel the importance of prayer and its role in deepening our connection with God. We will discuss a model for prayer, illuminating the Lord's Prayer as a framework to guide our own conversations with God. Additionally, we will explore the persistence of prayer and the rewards of seeking, asking, and knocking in faith.We wholeheartedly believe that this sermon has the potential to ignite a passion for prayer within each one of us. Whether you're new to the faith or have been walking with Christ for years, this sermon will provide fresh insights, practical tools, and an opportunity to take your prayer life to the next level.
One of my favorite songs is, Wayfaring Stranger.” The first lines begin, “I am a poor wayfaring stranger; While traveling through this world of woe.” It’s true. We are strangers in this world, set apart from the brokenness, but once in it.We are now set apart because we have been adopted into God’s family by declaring our faith in him. His inheritance is our inheritance. That means, even though stated in this favorite song of mine, we aren’t poor. On the contrary, we are mighty rich. Rich in the characteristics of God.So why is it we struggle to experience those things fully in our lives? What do we need to do? Surely, God’s given us an answer.I can’t wait to talk about this with you on Sunday as we take a look at living wholly in a broken world.Grace and peace, Ashlee
Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez finishes our series "Grace"We have come to the last sermon in our series on Grace. We have explored the nature of grace, its forgiving nature, and its transformative power. Today, we conclude with the way of love.God bless,Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez
Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez continues our series "Grace"Last week, we explored how grace empowers us to forgive others. This week, we look at how grace transforms us and calls us to live a life of holiness.Do you want to live a life of meaning and purpose? Find out how God's grace transforms us and calls us to a life of holiness.Discover the call to holiness through the transformative power of grace.God bless,Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez
Last week we learned about the nature and role of Grace in The Calling of God. Today, we gather to revisit an important aspect of our faith: the grace of forgiveness. We will draw on important passages from Matthew 6:14-15, Ephesians 1:7, and Colossians 3:13, to garner a more comprehensive understanding of how grace empowers us to forgive. Forgiveness is not merely an act we perform. It's a transformative lifestyle, shaping our spiritual growth and fostering reconciliation. Through forgiveness, we liberate ourselves from bitterness, anger, and resentment moving towards inner peace and joy.
Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez shares with us his sermon that will focus on the concept of Grace as explained in Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works so that no one can boast." This verse reminds us that our salvation is a gift from God, not something we can earn through our own works. This verse emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God and cannot be earned through our own efforts.
Pastor Tom Grieb completes our series "By Faith"If you will allow me Sunday, I have pulled together a couple of real-life ministry experiences that will go right along with what we have been talking about the past few weeks. I look forward to continuing our study of what it means to live by faith. While my faith is by no means perfect, it has been the very thing that has kept me connected to God who has led me through the entirety of my life.I can’t believe I am writing this, but after 45 years of ministry I will be preaching my last sermon on Sunday, at least as an appointed pastor. I am a full believer though that all of us are the only sermon some will ever see, me included. In that regard, I look very much forward to continuing my “preaching” ministry.To say thanks for your love and support these past five years does not come close to expressing my feelings for you and my beloved Saint John. It has been my esteemed honor to serve alongside you in the name of Christ. In a word, I love you deeply.God bless, Tom Grieb
The story of Daniel is the story of a resolute faith. Daniel, much like Joseph, was a Hebrew who rose to high standing in the court of a foreign Kingdom. In Daniel’s case, he was a high ranking official in the court of Babylon. Like Joseph, Daniel stayed faithful to God. His relationship with God was strong in every way. Case in point, Daniel prayed three times each day with his face pointed to Jerusalem. It was his regular practice of prayer that landed him in the lion’s den. As the story goes, even though Daniel was thrown in the lion’s den, he was not harmed. God protected him from the threat that loomed and, by so doing, God was glorified. Daniel’s trust in God set him apart and was a strong witness to all, even to the Babylonian king whom he served. There are “lions” all around us that threaten us and seek to do harm. Placing our trust in God helps us face them and emerge victorious. We will be talking about such things as we continue our present sermon series on living By Faith. We will be studying Daniel 6:16-23. Please know that my prayers are with you. God bless, Tom Grieb
A.W. Tozer said, “Christians should be the boldest people in the world; not cocky and sure of ourselves, but sure of Him.”Our hero of the faith this week did this well at times and honestly, not so well at others. Gideon, who you’ll find in the book of Judges, was one of those people who is important to study so we can learn from not only what he did right, but from what he did wrong. We don’t come at this from a place of judgment, though, but a place of curiosity. After all, he was human just as we are, and we could all use some help and accountability at times.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "By Faith"Moses is another of those heroes of faith listed in Hebrews 11. The writer of Hebrews spends a good deal of time listing the ways Moses lived by faith. That faith started with his parents and was developed over a lifetime. By faith, Moses stood strong in his identity as a child of God. He was open to the call God gave him at the burning bush. He courageously approached Pharoah about letting God’s people go. He walked triumphantly with those same people through the Red Sea.God was always at work in Moses’ life building his faith so that when the time came for Moses to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt he was up to the task. God is always at work in our lives as well, building our faith. He is always preparing not only for the day at hand, but for what’s next. He is fully aware that only as we place our faith in him will we be up for what he has in store.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "By Faith"Joseph, son of Jacob, was one of those Old Testament heroes that lived by faith. The writer of Hebrews includes Joseph in the Hall of Faith.As a young man, Joseph was full of himself. He was his father’s favorite and he knew it, as did his brothers. In a fit of jealousy, his brothers sold Joseph into slavery and sent him off to Egypt. While there, Joseph seemed to always land on his feet. Eventually, he was appointed by Pharoah to oversee the entire country. While in that position, Joseph stored grain in the event of a famine. Famine struck and nations far and wide came to Egypt for help, including Israel. Joseph’s brothers came seeking aid on behalf of their fatherIn the end, Joseph forgave them for what they had done, while affirming God’s will. “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good,” he said. God worked to bring about his good purposes in Joseph’s life. He does the same for you and me.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "By Faith"Sarah was well past childbearing age, yet God was insistent upon holding fast to his promise that her husband, Abraham, would be the head of a great nation and that his descendants would be more numerous than the stars in the sky. Upon hearing the news that she would soon give birth Sarah laughed in disbelief. She would find God true to his word, though. Isaac would born and Abraham and Sarah would be blessed with many descendants.“Nothing is too hard for the Lord.” That’s the message of this wonderful story. It’s not so much our faith, but God’s faithfulness that makes it so.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "By Faith"All throughout Scripture, we discover how God can use unlikely people to participate in his plan of provision and protection.This week we are talking about one of those people – a woman who stepped out in faith and ended up providing the opportunity for the Israelites to finally enter into the promised land of Canaan.Rahab is a hero of the faith. I’m excited to dig into her story so we can learn how she inspires us to follow in her brave and willing footsteps in response to God’s great ways.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "By Faith"Abraham has been called the “Father of the Faith.” He remained faithful to whatever God called him to do and was even willing to sacrifice his son. Of course, we know from scripture that God provided a ram for the sacrifice. Abraham was tested and proved that he would trust God come what may. Needless to say, God proved himself as well.God is always worthy of our trust. He will always prove himself true and come through. Above all things, God will never leave us or forsake us.Hebrews chapter 11, the scriptural base for our current sermon series, encourages us to live by faith. It does so with a long list of those who consciously chose to put their faith in God. That “cloud of witnesses” trusted God without caution or reserve, and they inspire us to this day.Today we are talking about Father Abraham. Our scripture is Hebrews 11:8-10, 17-19.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins a new series "By Faith"We begin a new sermon series that hopefully will challenge each of us to live by faith more consistently. We will be using as our scriptural base that great passage from Hebrews 11 where persons of faith from the Old Testament are listed. Their lives inspire and challenge us to this day.Today we will be considering the life of Noah and the way his faith provided for a brand-new start. Noah remained faithful even when those around him chided him for doing so. In a word, they thought he was crazy for building an ark in the middle of nowhere. Who could blame them? Noah persevered, only to experience the redemption of God for his life, the life of his family, and the world as a whole. That’s what happens for those who walk with the Lord.Our scripture is Hebrews 11:7 and Genesis 6:9-18.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our Lenten/Easter series "Good News."Just last Sunday we celebrated the great day of Easter and the fact that Jesus is risen from the dead. A few days removed from that great day we continue to live in the light of that resurrection and the hope it offers for this life and the next. The disciples were encouraged to live in that hope and so are we.Paul also encourages us about this hope in the resurrection, and even ties our salvation to it. He writes in Romans 10:9 that “if you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” It is not enough to just give intellectual assent to the resurrection; we are to believe with all our heart. That belief will propel us into life with confidence and strength, even to the point that we will “declare with our mouths that ‘Jesus is Lord.’”
Pastor Tom Grieb continue our Lenten/Easter series "Good News."The rising of the sun each morning is testimony to the early morning when the sun rose on the reality of Christ’s resurrection. As the sun rises this Sunday, we find ourselves living into that same reality.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our Lenten/Easter series "Good News" in this Good Friday message about the great love Jesus showed us in his death on the cross.
Pastor Tom Grieb and Pastor Ashlee Adkins continue our Lenten/Easter series "Good News."Palm Sunday commemorates the day of Christ’s Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem right before his death. People gathered to celebrate a man they understood to be the Messiah. In the minds of many they understood Jesus to be a sort of conquering hero who would free them from Roman domination. Jesus would free them all right, but not from Roman domination. The freedom he offered was from the weight of sin. His death on the cross all but sealed it.Today we consider the redemption that is ours in Jesus. Jesus redeems us from the slavery of sin that holds us captive. Jesus pays the price for that sin and frees us to be the sort of people he wants us to be. Our scripture is Romans 8:1-2.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series "Good News."The great prayer, the Agnus Dei, has been prayed and sung through the ages. “Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us.” Christ, the lamb of God, has paved the way for our salvation and a freedom from the sin that has such a hold on us. Jesus is the one true and perfect sacrifice, making all this possible.Borrowing from the great story of Passover and the blood of the lamb that brought salvation to the firstborn of the Hebrews and paved the way of freedom from bondage in Egypt, Jesus paves the way for our salvation and the freedom from sin that comes from his sacrifice on the cross.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series, "Good News."It is the greatest delight to stand before our Lord, forgiven and free. Jesus made that possible by what he did on the cross. The debt of our sin is satisfied and we are made right with God. We are once and for all reconciled to our Heavenly Father. This is the good news for each of us. It is good news for all the world for all time.One of the central themes of Lent is the salvation that is wrought by the great work of Christ on the cross. Our scripture for the week is Romans 5:1-5.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our “Good News” sermon series.The good news of Christ is very much tied to what he does on the cross. The cross paves the way for our forgiveness and sets us on the path of new life. It reconciles us with our Heavenly Father. It makes us “at-one” with him.We know that in Christ we have someone who is in our corner. He is our Advocate before the Father. Jesus bears our sin, so we don’t have to. All of this is a matter of grace. It is then up to each of us to accept this grace through faith.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our “Good News” sermon series.From Pastor Ashlee:I have to confess - I struggle with confessing. I get knots in my stomach and a lump in my throat anytime I feel I’ve done something wrong and need to admit it – which is a lot! After all, I am a sinner. But that’s not my only truth. Because of God’s love, I can admit my failures and accept his grace to live into the more important truth that while I am a sinner, I am also a child of God who has another choice – one made through confessing my sin.There are so many reasons why confession is hard, but it’s an essential part of being a born-again follower of Christ. Confession brings us to a humble posture that reminds us how desperately we need God. Isn’t it wonderful that God knows how much we need him – each day – and so he makes himself available to us through the Holy Spirit? ALL. THE. TIME.What holds us back from confessing? Lots of things! But I believe there is one main thing and I look forward to talking about that (and more in this message!
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our “Good News” sermon series.The season of Lent is upon us. It is that season of forty days, less Sundays, leading up to Easter. The focus is upon Christ and the good news he offers to a world starved for good news.In a world darkened by sin, the light of God’s grace comes shining through. As we know from scripture, Adam, while in the Garden of Eden, ate the fruit that God had said was off limits. He did this at the urging of Eve and the deception of the serpent. In his disobedience, Adam welcomed sin into the world. Just as Adam chose to be disobedient, we do as well. Enter Jesus Christ, who frees us from the hold of sin. In Christ, we gain so much more than what was ever lost in Adam. This is good news indeed.Paul writes in Romans 5:17, “For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace through the one man, Jesus Christ!” This is the good news we celebrate at this season of the year and the very thing that transforms us into the sort of people God would have us to be.
Minister of Students Steven Lundy begins our Lent/Easter series, "Good News."Ash Wednesday and the season of Lent offer us a time to repent and believe.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our “Health Assessment” sermon series.Nothing quite impacts our lives like money. It takes a certain degree of money to grease the wheels and keep things going. We are learning that during a time of high inflation it takes more and more money to keep those wheels greased.We’d all do well to have a plan when it comes to our finances. More importantly, we’d do well to re-evaluate the place of money in our lives and how we might honor God with what he has first given.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our “Health Assessment” sermon series.The late great George Burns once said this: "Happiness is having a large, loving, caring, close-knit family…in another city." Family is precious, but as we all know, it can be hard and complicated, too.The pressure and stress of leading a family in the world right now is extremely hard. We are more connected via the internet and social media than ever, but on the flip side we are more disconnected from relationship and real connection than we have ever been.Parents are working more than ever because of easy accessibility while trying to be present at home. Kids are feeling the pressure of constant scrutiny because their whole lives are documented online. And marriages are surviving with a pool noodle and schedules.We have to fight for our families. Proverbs makes it clear how to do that. In this message we dig into this timeless wisdom, no matter your family dynamic, variation, or situation.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our “Health Assessment” sermon series.We were not built to go it alone. We were created to be in relationship, relationship with God and with one another. Much of life is based on the relationships we develop. We should always be nurturing those we have and seeking out new ones. Good friends are worth their weight in gold. In fact, they surpass all the gold in the world.Good friends support one another, listen to one another, and are there for one another. And, of course, good friends love one another. We should do all we can do to be a good friend to those around us.Proverbs 18:24 hit it right: “Some friends play at friendship, but a true friend sticks closer than one’s nearer kin.” When we just play at friendship we miss out on so much. When we are intentional life becomes sweeter and certainly more fulfilling.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our “Health Assessment” sermon series.We are talking this week about emotional health. It’s a broad topic that affects us all. Proverbs has good things to say about such things, as does the rest of scripture.God is concerned about our emotional health. He realizes that at its base emotional health is a spiritual issue. It is tied to God’s love for us, which translates into a healthy love for self and others. We love only as we have first been loved and that starts with God..
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our “Health Assessment” sermon series.The Book of Proverbs offers a great prescription for spiritual health, which then leads to good overall health—body, mind, and spirit. That prescription is found in Proverbs 3:5-8 where the writer talks about “trusting in the Lord with all your heart.”It comes to us to solely rely on the One who sees far beyond what we can see. We are to rest in the One who is all strength. We are to be open to the One who is all love. In all these things and so much more we will find ourselves emerging spiritually and engaging the whole of life in healthy ways—body, mind, and spirit.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our “Health Assessment” sermon series.We’ve talked a lot about the mind and our thoughts in the past year. We know that we are living in the times of information overload. When we watch the news, not only are we listening to someone, but we see visuals, a scroll bar at the bottom and sometimes even on the side – all of which are trying to engage our minds with different information about the same topic. It is overwhelming!It’s not hard to believe that we are tired. Our basic thought bandwidth is held for our jobs, trying to do a good job in whatever family role we hold, and then, hopefully, there’s a little space for spending time with God.When we think about our minds, we probably don’t think that our hearts would be in the same assessment of health – but that’s not the case with God. Our heart health is what drives our mind’s health.So, how are you doing? Ashlee raises some important questions to help you discern that answer. We pray it’s a good one and if not, it’s ok - know you are in the right place for changing that.
Pastor Tom Grieb kicks off our new “Health Assessment” sermon series.Good health is uppermost on everyone’s mind, particularly in the New Year. Health is a whole life issue. You can’t separate physical health from emotional health, nor can those two be separated from spiritual health. One affects the other. When it comes to health, we are an organic whole.Scripture seems to affirm that as we will see over the next few weeks as we make our way through selected passages of the Book of Proverbs.This Sunday we begin a new sermon series entitled “Health Assessment.” It will seek to consider our health from a number of different vantage points. All along, we will be referencing the Book of Proverbs. This week we will consider physical health, reading from Proverbs 25:16, I Corinthians 6:19-20, and I Timothy 4:8.
Pastor Tom Grieb and Pastor Ashlee Adkins wrap up our series on the Themes of Christmas.Emmanuel has come and we have celebrated! It’s easy to get back into the swing of things and in the busyness of life, and the good news of the great joy begins to fade into the background of to-do lists, deadlines, and planning.The shepherds saw Jesus and left praising and glorifying him – sharing the good news. And it wasn’t because they felt like they had to, but because of a deep transformation that could only be expressed through a change in their lives. This change pointed to the newborn King, the Messiah, the Light of the world.Once we hear the good news, God offers us the same transformation. It’s a transformation and change that entails glorifying and praising God in all that we do, to all that we meet. It’s a daily choice we make to choose the Kingdom over everything. As we begin a new year, let’s embark on a journey to see what that looks like; a journey to be a people who loves God and loves others by living out the Good News for all to hear.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series on the Themes of Christmas.When the angel announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds, he said he brought news of “great joy.” Do we feel that same joy when we celebrate the birth of Christ and throughout the year? This Christmas Day sermon looks into that question and more.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Themes of Christmas series.Jesus is known as the Light of the World. We dig into that concept on Christmas Eve.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Advent/Christmas series.During the weeks of Advent, we have encountered the great themes of Christmas. To date, we have talked about peace, joy, and love. This week we consider how the birth of Christ reminds us of the miracle of new life. Who of us hasn’t marveled at the birth of a newborn? Who of us hasn’t marveled at the birth of Jesus? The story of Christ’s birth is that new life paves the way for new life.As Christians, we are a people of new life. Our lives have been transformed by the great gift that is Jesus in the world. What was once old has passed; the new has come. In Christ, we are transformed from our old selves into new creations. In a word, we are made new. It is always good to start over, isn’t it? If anything, the Christian life is a life that celebrates starting over and the new life that follows.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "The Themes of Christmas."John 3:16 has been called the “gospel in miniature.” John puts it well when it comes to God’s generosity. “God so loved the world that he gave.” The great gift God gives is the gift of his son, through whom we not only have the promise of abundant life in this life, but the joys of eternal life later on.At Christmas, we celebrate God’s great gift in Jesus and find our hearts warmed with the broad assurance that God has acted in the greatest show of love that has ever been.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "The Themes of Christmas."When people find themselves in the midst of grief, hurt, anger, uncertainty, and hopelessness, hope can seem like a fallacy, not remotely close to bringing comfort. In those moments, hope can seem like a four-letter word, even when it’s offered in kindness.Israel had gone through rough times. They were in despair and hopelessness so deep they had sought other avenues, searching for anything and everything that would provide a distraction to their deep angst. Isaiah offered a good word. A word of hope. A promise of a new covenant.Today we know what that hope was and still is. We know who was to come and offer the hope we all long for. True hope. Not a wishy-washy hope that may or may not come to fruition. Hope that allows us a foundation to stand upon today and a confident and sure anticipation of what’s to come.What does this hope look like? So that even when we face hard times or meet those who are, we can grasp to the truth and offer light in the darkness?
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our series "The Themes of Christmas."From the celebration of Thanksgiving, we move to the first Sunday of Advent and set our sights on the grand season that anticipates the birth of Christ.As you approach Advent, may you become open to the great things God longs to do in your life. This Sunday we are talking about Christ as the Prince of Peace as we study the great prophecy from Isaiah 9:2-7.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series "Immeasurably More."It follows that being well-assured of God’s love leads to a generous heart. God’s love awakens us to the many blessings he bestows upon our lives. God is all about looking after our needs. Moreover, he is deeply interested in filling our hearts to the overflowing. Because of that, we can’t help but respond. While there are many ways to respond, giving is one of the more tangible.The current of God’s love always finds a way to express itself. When struck by that love we will not only want to give, we will need to give.The scripture teaches that when we “give, it will be given to us.” The more we give, the blessings of God will become even more apparent. Those blessings will not only fill us, but will do so to the overflowing.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Immeasurably More."This week we visit a story from Matthew about a woman who anoints Jesus with a very expensive, fancy oil. The disciples become outraged at the woman and I’m sure Jesus’ reply throws them off. He defends the woman’s act!What does this story tell us about stewardship and God’s abilities to be immeasurably more in our lives? Lots! We could do a whole sermon series on this wonderful story that kicks off the Passion narrative.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series “Immeasurably More.”Bobby McFerrin’s famous song encourages us by saying “Don’t worry, be happy.” More importantly, Jesus says “don’t worry.” He calls on us to trust in God’s provision and assures us that God always takes care of our needs. We are to trust in him day by day, and in that we will not only be happy but full of joy.
Pastor Tom Grieb kicks off our series “Immeasurably More.”In Ephesians 3:20-21 Paul writes from prison, and in a glorious way. In the concluding verses of chapter 3, he launches into a prayer for those who make up the church. It is a beautiful prayer that leads us to remember the love God has for us in Jesus Christ. Paul leads us to consider God’s power and the difference it makes not only in the church, but in the life of every believer. He says that this power is “immeasurably more” than we could ever think or imagine and is able to carry us through this life in triumphant fashion and takes us on to the next.In a culture that is all about accumulating more and more stuff, the “immeasurably more” Paul talks about has to do with the presence of God making a supreme difference in our lives. In his presence, we will find ourselves filled to the overflowing, which is vastly more important than any material things we could ever accumulate.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series based on the visions and values of Saint John.Scripture has a way of informing our lives like few things can. God is able to speak through scripture. For those who are interested in listening there is strength for the downtrodden, peace for the anxious, and direction for those who seem to be floundering. Although scripture was written centuries ago, it is as contemporary today as the day it was written. We would all do well to make a regular practice of readying scripture.This Sunday, we wrap up our sermon series on the Vision and Values of the church by talking about what it means to be Biblically based. We will be studying that great passage from the Psalms, Psalm 119:105, and talking about what it means for scripture to be both a guard and guide for our lives. “The word of God is a lamp for our feet and a light for our path.”
Pastor Ashlee Adkins and Pastor Tom Grieb continue our series based on the visions and values of Saint John.This week we discuss our value of being mission-minded. As a church whose mind is on mission, we abide in Christ by always staying aware of where God is calling us to join him in the kingdom work he is doing.We will be studying Romans 10 where Paul writes to the church to emphasize their crucial mission: to be God’s people who live for and preach specifically about Jesus so people can call out to him and know him, then go out and do the same themselves. It’s an important evangelical piece of theology that strikes to the core of who we are called to be: a people who serve others in love, but in Jesus’ name and to his glory.Even though there is lots of bad and evil in the world, there is also lots of kindness and goodness. The question is, are we—Christ’s disciples—living out the good things of God while also professing we are doing so in Jesus’ name for his glory?
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our "Making a Difference" series based on the visions and values of Saint John.Francis Chan says, “But God doesn't call us to be comfortable. He calls us to trust Him so completely that we are unafraid to put ourselves in situations where we will be in trouble if He doesn't come through.”We know throughout Scripture, whether it’s coming from Jesus or from Paul, that being a disciple isn’t easy. When we choose Christ and accept his call into discipleship, we choose a path that comes with hardship, discomfort, and suffering. But as disciples, we are never alone. The Holy Spirit walks with us, strengthening us and equipping us through the hard times we will face as we partner with God in his Kingdom work.At Saint John, we are discipleship driven. As those who love Jesus and serve Jesus, we can’t be driven by anything else.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our "Making a Difference" series based on the visions and values of Saint John.This week we find ourselves back in prison. We spoke briefly last week about Paul and Silas being freed from the jail in Philippi by a well-timed earthquake. The earthquake not only got Paul and Silas’ attention but also that of the jailer. He was about to take his own life when Paul and Silas intervened. The man asked how he could be saved, and Paul and Silas told him to believe in Jesus. The man was saved that day and was so touched that he got his family involved as well. The whole household was baptized, and we can only imagine that they became an important part of the Philippian Church.Today we consider not only the new life that came to the Philippian jailer, but to his entire family. The jailer was focused not just on Jesus, but on family was well. The same is true for us as a church. We are focused on Jesus and on family, both our own families and those in our community. That focus is a part of our identity and is important when it comes to reaching out in the name of Christ.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our "Making a Difference" series based on the visions and values of Saint John.Paul did some of his best work from prison, or maybe we should say that God did some of his best work while Paul was imprisoned. Of course, we remember Paul and Silas singing and praising God in the Philippian jail when an earthquake set them free. The jailer was so distressed that he was ready to take his own life. Paul and Silas stepped in, and the man asked how he might be saved.As we know, Paul wrote from prison, most pointedly from Rome. One of these letters was to the church in Philippi. It was a thank you note where he also shared about his deep devotion to Christ. Paul’s reason for being was to exalt Christ. Whether in life or death, it was Paul’s desire to bring glory to Jesus. In Philippians 1:21, Paul offers a hopeful word tied to the power of Christ’s resurrection from the dead when he resoundingly states, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.”That is a powerful statement for us as we seek to live in the power of Christ’s resurrection. Whether in life or death, we are called to be centered in Christ.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our "Making a Difference" series based on the visions and values of Saint John.This week we consider Christ’s most challenging word. He would affirm that we need to love God and love others. That’s a given. He puts some flesh on that by challenging us to “love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us.” We know from experience that doing so is by no means easy. We consider such a challenge and quickly realize that if we are to attain this high calling, we will need some help. That help comes from the Lord. We will never be able to scale the heights of the sort of love Jesus talks about without the secure knowledge that God loves us first. We love because we have first been loved.Jesus challenges us even further. He calls on us to “be perfect, as our Heavenly Father is perfect.” This too is unattainable without the wonderworking power of God in our lives. The perfection Jesus talks about is tied to love. It is also tied to the transformative power of God to continually make us over into the image of Christ. He does this as we allow him to mold and shape us into the sort of people, he wants us to be. Allowing God to do his thing will bring us to the place where we—even we—will be able to “love everyone.”
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our "Making a Difference" series based on the visions and values of Saint John.Service is a natural outgrowth of being a Christ-follower. It is so intrinsic to the Christian walk that we might dare say, “We were created to serve.”Scripture teaches that God gives each person gifts that when rightly identified and rightly used go a long way toward making a difference. Peter talks about this in I Peter 4:10 when he writes that “each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”We are, in effect, stewards of the marvelous ways God has worked in our lives. He has bestowed upon us gifts that are to be used in service to others. When that happens, not only are others helped, but God is glorified.
Pastors Tom Grieb and Ashlee Adkins continue our "Making a Difference" series based on the visions and values of Saint John.Offering hope is an integral part of the vision of our church. When we speak about offering hope, we mean sharing the good news that is ours in Jesus Christ. That news makes a supreme difference in the lives of those who accept it. In a sometimes seemingly hopeless world, it is good to know there is hope in Christ.We should find ourselves prepared at every turn to share that hope. That is best done with gentleness, respect, patience, and good instruction. It is also best shared in relationship. Jesus was all about relationship and the things he shared were best received in relationship. It comes to us to do as Jesus did—to be in relationship with others, seeking to offer the grand hope he came to share.
Pastor Tom Grieb kicks off our new series, “Making a Difference,” based on Saint John’s vision and values.If there is one thing you can say about the Apostle Paul, it is that he was focused on following Jesus. Ever since his conversion on the Damascus Road it was his every desire to know Christ and follow him without reservation. He was pleased to let what was past stay in the past and to press forward toward the goal that was his heavenward in Christ Jesus.Paul’s desire to follow Jesus led to a life of undying discipline and deep devotion, which made a great difference in Paul’s life and in the lives of those around him. Wherever Paul traveled, people were led to follow Christ and God’s Kingdom was furthered. The world was never the same again. Talk about making a difference! How does it go for you when it comes to following Christ?
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our “Lessons in Leadership” series based on the book of Nehemiah.The completion of the wall around Jerusalem befitted a formal dedication, not unlike a dedication that takes place for a building of any significance. Church buildings, for instance, are routinely dedicated upon their completion. Nehemiah knew, however, that before the wall could be dedicated the people needed to get their hearts right before God.Nehemiah called on the people to do some soul-searching after the wall was completed and before its dedication. Under Nehemiah’s leadership they were called to dedicate themselves wholly to God. This was necessary for them to prepare not only for the wall’s dedication but for what God had in store for them moving forward.Being wholly dedicated to God is a daily decision that puts us right where we need to be—at God’s disposal. It takes the focus off of ourselves and puts it squarely where it needs to be--upon God. By so doing, our lives will become a celebration of God’s good work in our lives.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our "Lessons in Leadership" series based on the book of Nehemiah.One of the distinctive characteristics of an effective leader is the ability to follow through. Many live under the assumption that when it comes to leadership, just talking a good game is enough. The proof is in the pudding. Getting things done sets an effective leader apart.Nehemiah, among many things, had that innate ability to follow through. He was a visionary, but was also able to translate that vision into everyday life. When it came to rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem, Nehemiah was focused on seeing things through. The scripture reports that the restoration of the wall was completed in a miraculous fifty-two days. Nehemiah, along with all others who joined him, demonstrated the power of following through. We’d do well to demonstrate the same.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our “Lessons in Leadership” series based on the book of Nehemiah.We have learned a lot over the summer about Nehemiah and his leadership. One thing that set Nehemiah’s leadership apart was the fact that he never expected anything of others that he wasn’t willing to do himself. In a word, Nehemiah led by example. He was man of strong character and impeccable integrity with a great burden for the people he served. He realized that other leaders had not always dealt fairly with them. Out of reverence for God he didn’t act like that.Nehemiah’s leadership was infectious. The people were willing to follow his lead and were inspired to pitch in. They didn’t hesitate to do their part in making sure the wall around Jerusalem was rebuilt, and Nehemiah was the catalyst for that.Another who led by example is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jesus is the epitome of all love and service. He is a worthy leader indeed. We are called to follow, and in following, find ourselves becoming more like him.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our “Lessons in Leadership” series based on the book of Nehemiah.We’ve heard how Nehemiah handled opposition outside the Jewish people; this week we turn to how he handled opposition within the Jewish people.Sadly, when circumstances are hard, there are people who take advantage of those who are weak. And that’s exactly what happened in Nehemiah 5. The people working on the wall faced hunger, poverty, and oppression. And God doesn’t stand for that. Instead, he calls his children (you and me!) to the trenches to lift up those who are poor, hungry, and oppressed.So how does Nehemiah show us how to do that? Let’s find out together!
Pastor Tom Grieb and Pastor Ashlee Adkins join together to continue our series “Lessons in Leadership,” based on the book of Nehemiah.While the rebuilding of the wall around Jerusalem was a daunting task, Nehemiah was ready to “get ‘er done.” He would need others to come around him for that to happen. There was absolutely no way he could accomplish such a big project without help. To his credit, Nehemiah sought the help of others. In fact, it seemed he got everyone involved in one way or the other.Nehemiah 3 provides a long list of those who helped and where they came from. With every name listed there were also countless others who helped. People came from all around Judah to get the job done. Together everyone was able to accomplish what God wanted done.Delegating responsibility is an important trait for any leader. If things are going to get done on a broad scale, others will need to come alongside us to make that happen.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series “Lessons in Leadership,” based on the book of Nehemiah.On face value you would think that rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem would have been supported by all, particularly since the vision to do it was so clear. Yet there were critical voices that emerged. Two were particularly vocal, Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite. They were from outside the Jewish faith and were opposed to anything that would strengthen Jerusalem’s position. They were relentless in their criticism and even threatened to attack. Under Nehemiah’s leadership, however, the Jews were undeterred. They stayed at their work with one hand with their other hand on the sword.With any big project opposition is sure to arise. Today there seems to be a difference of opinion on just about everything. How we deal with that opposition sets us apart. Our leadership may very well rise or fall on the crucible of conflict. This week we will consider how Nehemiah handled conflict and by so doing we will gain some valuable lessons in leadership.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series “Lessons in Leadership,” based on the book of Nehemiah.Proverbs 29:18 states that “without a vision, the people perish.” Vision is critical to getting things accomplished. Nehemiah offered a clear and compelling vision for the rebuilding of the walls in Jerusalem. He also invited people to join him in that vision. We should not be surprised that thosel involved were able to accomplish a great deal.The vision Nehemiah cast in rebuilding the walls around Jerusalem was a part of a broader preferred future God had for his people. The rebuilding of the walls was a good first step toward bringing that future to fruition.A leader like Nehemiah challenges us to consider the sort of vision we need to be casting, particularly when it comes to ministering to a troubled and broken world. Casting a vision of meeting that brokenness in God’s name and with his help will go a long way toward building God’s Kingdom here on earth just as it is in heaven.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Lessons in Leadership," based on the book of Nehemiah.Saint Augustine said, “The truth is like a lion, you don’t have to defend it. Let it loose; it will defend itself.”We are talking about the willingness to ask this Sunday. Being bold in a world of high scrutiny and pressure is not easy. But when we engulf ourselves in God’s truth - the truth of who he is and the truth of his sovereign plan - being bold is as being the lion. It takes care of itself as we move forward in faith.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, “Lessons in Leadership,” based on the book of Nehemiah. If anything, Nehemiah was a man of prayer. Prayer was at the heart of who he was as a leader. Nehemiah didn’t dare strike out until he had prayed. He didn’t want to get ahead of what God wanted him to do. Our passage for this week is Nehemiah 1:5-11. It is the prayer Nehemiah prayed before approaching King Artaxerxes to gain the king’s permission to return to Jerusalem and re-build the city walls. That prayer at once recognizes the character of God as One who works to bring about good for those who love him. It understands the need for forgiveness. The leader who is contrite wants to make sure his/her heart is right. The prayer also recognizes the importance of seeking God’s help and how God’s help has a way of bringing about success. The fact that Nehemiah prayed first, last, and everywhere in between speaks volumes to the type of leader he was. We would do well to do the same.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins a new series, “Lessons in Leadership,” based on the book of Nehemiah.Leadership makes the difference. We’ll be talking about that this summer as we consider the leadership of Nehemiah, who was instrumental in re-building the walls around Jerusalem after God’s people returned from exile in Babylon. Nehemiah is a great example of what it means to be a leader. We find in him the sort of characteristics that can make a real difference when put in play.This week we will be talking about seeing a need and meeting it. Nehemiah wasn’t content to wait for somebody else to step up. Let’s face it, there are all sorts of needs around us. We too need to step up and do what we can to meet them, with God’s help.
Minister of Students Steven Lundy delivers a stand-alone sermon for Pentecost Sunday entitled “Freedom in Fulfillment.”As modern Christians we celebrate Pentecost as the time of the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles in the upper room. However, the meaning of Pentecost is much deeper, and the impact is much greater.As we explore the historical beginnings of Pentecost, we see how God continues to work all things towards fulfillment in Christ. This fulfillment challenges us to realize Christ’s promises as it inspires us to make it known and to experience the freedom found in fulfillment.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our “Home Construction” series.Throughout this series we've talked about the importance of love in family. Last week we focused on I Corinthians 13 where Paul listed fifteen characteristics of love in an effort to offer a definition of what love is and isn’t.This week we encounter another of Paul’s lists. This list is found in Colossians 3:12ff. and offers a number of things that make for healthy relationships. Paul lists compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. He also adds forgiveness.In the end, Paul makes an appeal to love. He says, “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds everything in perfect unity.” He encourages us to put love into action to the end that we draw closer and closer together. That translates to every relationship, and particularly those we have in family.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Home Construction series.Love has always been God’s answer. Just consider the life of Christ. His love was consistent throughout. When it comes to love, we are to do as Jesus did.In talking about love, Paul offers a wonderful definition of love in I Corinthians 13. He talks about what love is and what it isn’t. In the end, Paul resoundingly states that “love never fails.” Love won’t fail when times get tough, when disappointment abounds, and when we feel as though we can’t make it through another day. Love has a way of seeing us through in all our relationships, particularly those we have within our families.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Home Construction."It has been called “the greatest short story ever told.” The Parable of the Lost Son is the story of a father’s enduring love. The father releases his son, who with mixed-up priorities spends his inheritance on “wild and reckless living.” Recognizing his need, the boy decides to return to his father, only this time as one of his hired servants. Instead, the boy is lovingly received and a great celebration ensues.The Parable of the Lost Son is really a story about the love God has for each of us. All too often we go our own way, and upon our return God receives us in his warm, loving embrace. God’s love toward us is always gracious, always compassionate, always forgiving.As we make God’s love our own, we find ourselves at a much better place to share the same with those around us, particularly those at home. In the “Home Construction” that is always with us, we’d do well to love with the same sort of unconditional, grace-filled love that God has for us. After all, he is our Heavenly Father.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins a new series entitled "Home Construction."Mother’s Day is always an important time to consider our families and how we might do better when it comes to family. In fact, this Sunday we are kicking off a brand-new sermon series that will focus on family. We will be centering on those things that make for a strong home, the most important of which is love.This week we will be studying from I Samuel 1:21-28 and the story of Hannah dedicating her young son, Samuel, to the Lord. It is a story of deep faith. We will find that all Hannah did was borne out of love not only for Samuel, but for God. It is an inspiring and challenging story for today’s families.
Pastor Tom concludes his mini-series on Sacraments with a message about holy communion entitled "Assured by God."The Sacraments are those things the church sets aside as most sacred within the church. As United Methodists, we consider Baptism and Holy Communion to be those Sacraments. They draw us closer to God and one another. They help form our identity as Christians and help us become aware of the salvation that is ours in Jesus Christ.This week we look forward to sharing in Holy Communion. We will do that against the backdrop of what Paul writes in I Corinthians 11:23-32. The church in Corinth was full of “haves” and “have nots.” Those who had a lot showed little regard for those who had very little. That was particularly evident when the church came around the Lord’s Table.The invitation to the Lord’s Table is to all who come with an open heart ready to receive what Christ offers. Those in the Corinthian Church had also grown complacent. They really didn’t put themselves into their worship, nor did they rightly consider what was offered in the Lord’s Supper. Paul challenged them to “examine themselves before they ate the bread and drank from the cup.”
Pastor Tom Grieb begins a mini-series entitled "Sacrament" with a message about baptism: "Claimed by God."Baptism has been called “an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace.” God does marvelous things through the sacrament of Baptism. His grace is evident in all sorts of way. He claims us as his own. Our very identities are formed. Through baptism, we essentially say to all the world that we are Christian.From the very beginnings of the Christianity, baptism has been considered as a sign of the fact that a person is Christian. Much like circumcision marked the Jews as Jewish, baptism marked Christians as followers of Christ.Peter preached at Pentecost, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2:38) God’s power is evident in the Sacrament of Baptism. In keeping with the theme of Holy Week and the triumphant day of Easter, in baptism we “die with Christ, only to be raised with him.”
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our Lenten/Easter series with a message entitled "Lay Down Your Sorrow."This Sunday is the great day of Easter. It is the highest of all holy days. It is a day for great celebration. We take great joy in the fact that Jesus is risen from the dead. We will be studying the account of Christ’s resurrection from Mark 16:1-8. We read there about the women approaching the tomb seeking to anoint Christ’s body. To their surprise the tomb is empty, and they are greeted by the news from an angel that Jesus had risen from the dead.You would think they would have jumped for joy. Instead, they stood outside the tomb “trembling and bewildered.” Their sorrow was that intense. They had a lot to process. Interestingly, Mark has it that upon hearing the news of Christ’s resurrection the women “said nothing to anyone.” Eventually, they, along with Christ’s inner circle of disciples, would get their arms around the great thing that had taken place. Their bewilderment would give way to great rejoicing. They would begin to share freely the great good news. By so doing, others would catch on, and with that the world would never be the same again.The resurrection is the very bedrock of our faith. The Apostle Paul writes in II Corinthians 15:14, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” The resurrection stamps everything Jesus ever said or did as true. The fact that Jesus rose from the dead gives us hope for this life and for the next.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series with a message entitled "Lay Down Your Plans" as we remember Jesus' death on the cross for our redemption.
Minister of Students Steven Lundy continues our Lenten/Easter series with a message entitled "Lay Down Your Will" as we remember the Last Supper and Jesus' arrest.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series with a message entitled “Lay Down Your Branches.”Christ’s Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem was a big deal, but then again everything that took place the last week of Christ’s life was a big deal. The Triumphant Entry gave those who gathered a chance to honor one who many thought was a conquering hero. Christ, though, came in peace as he sought to establish a Kingdom of a different sort.The “hosannas” shouted that day have rung through the ages, particularly when you consider the meaning of the word. “Hosanna” essentially means “save.” While most who gathered along the road of Christ’s Triumphant Entry didn’t fully understand what Christ had come to do, they would soon learn that he did come to save. On account of the cross, salvation is offered. Forgiveness is possible. And new life is at hand.On Palm Sunday, let’s prepare to offer our Lord the praise due him. May it be that our “hosannas” ring loud and true. After all, we too need the salvation Christ offers. “Save us now, Lord, save us!”
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series with a message entitled "Lay Down Your Pride."Pride and self-interest always seem to be a driving force in this life. The two, though, if given full reign, will always trip us up in the end. Proverbs 16:8 says that “pride goes before the fall.” History is full of individuals who let their pride get in the way and their pride eventually led to their demise.James and John were two of Christ’s disciples. In fact, they were a part of his inner circle. In their pride and their desire to seek their own interests at the expense of others, they had the audacity one day to ask Jesus if they would be given places of honor once his Kingdom was established. They wanted one to sit at Christ’s left and the other at his right. Jesus took the opportunity to instruct them and the rest of the disciples about service and how that was the way to greatness.“Instead,” said Jesus, “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.” (Mark 10:43-44)
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series with a message entitled "Lay Down Your Life."In Mark 8:34 , Christ says “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” In reflecting on that passage, we’ll be talking about what it means to lay down our lives for the sake of Christ and the gospel. We’ll talk about what it means to make ourselves available to Christ, leaving ourselves at his disposal, and, above all else, following him.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series with a message entitled "Lay Down Your Worries."The disciples were caught wringing their hands upon hearing the call to feed the 5,000 who had gathered along the shore of the Sea of Galilee. It had been a long day for everyone. The disciples were content to send the multitude away to fend for themselves. Jesus, on the other hand, wanted to make sure their needs were well-tended to.As the disciples wondered out loud how they would ever be able to pull off such a feat, Jesus took things into his own hands. He asked the disciples what food they had found among the crowd. “Five loaves and two fish” was all there was. As we have said often, a little in the hands of Jesus is a lot. The disciples only saw the challenges. Jesus, on the other hand, saw the possibilities. He took the meager offering and divided it among the crowd. Miraculously, everyone ate to the full, with twelve basketsful left over. All the worry and fretting the disciples did was seen for what it was, nothing more than worrying and fretting. Jesus provided and did so miraculously.In our worrying and fretting we would do well to remember the One who seeks to provide. Join us as we take a close look at the Feeding of the 5,000 from Mark 6:30-44 and how we too can lay down our worry and let Christ do his thing.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series with a message entitled "Lay Down Your Doubt."
All of us have our doubts. It’s only human. Some really struggle with doubt to the point where their doubts interrupt their relationship with God. Those folk can’t seem to get over the hurdle of truly believing. The writer of Hebrews states that “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1) As we all know, with everything that conspires to drag us down it’s sometimes hard to muster the assurance and conviction necessary to be truly faithful.
God stands to help us in that. Even during times of doubt, God is involved to awaken us to the reality of his love. He honors us with his presence every time we turn his way, and even when we don’t, God is at work to make his presence known.
Doubt has a way of either eroding faith or catalyzing it. It’s important that we not become too comfortable with our doubts but fight through them to a deeper walk with Christ. As Jesus says in Matthew 7:7, “Seek and you shall find.”
Mark 5:21-43, the account of two healing miracles, witnesses to what takes place when a strong faith meets the very power of Christ.
Pastor Ashlee continues our Lenten/Easter series with a message entitled “Lay Down Your Fear.”
Most of us have heard that the phrase “Fear Not” is in the Bible 365 days (appropriate for each day of the year). And the Lord sure knows that we need to hear that daily because each day is filled with possibilities that we will face unknown struggles and trials that bring fear.
This week, as we continue our Lenten/Easter series, we will dig into the well-known story of Jesus calming the storm in the midst of the disciples’ fear (Mark 4:35-41). We’ll ask ourselves the important question, "Are we coming to God in our fear or are we coming to God in our faith?”
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our Lenten/Easter series "Lay Down Your..."
Ash Wednesday begins the grand season of Lent. For centuries, the church has set aside the forty days prior to Easter, minus the Sundays, as a time of sacrifice and penitence. It is customary for persons to give something up during Lent. Historically, Lent has always been a time when new converts were instructed in the faith and prepared for baptism.
During Lent, we talk about the basics of our faith which includes, first and foremost, the cross and its impact upon our lives. During Lent, we also pause to consider what it means to be a disciple.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our Fruitfulness series.
Every seven years the Hebrews would celebrate what was called the Sabbath Year. For six years they would till the land, plant it, and reap the harvest. The seventh year they would let the land lie fallow. Only what grew voluntarily could be gathered for food. The Sabbath Year was a firm reminder of the rhythm of rest God desires for his creation.
Upon creating the heavens and earth and all that fills them, God worked six days and on the seventh he rested. That stands as an example of what we are to do as well. We are left to consider how that will play out in our lives bearing in mind that rest is God’s will. God knows that without rest we will be much like the field that is never given a chance to lie fallow. Eventually, we will simply stop bearing fruit.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Fruitfulness."
The practice of gleaning is centuries old. It was very much a part of law for the Hebrews. Farmers were to leave a portion of their fields unharvested so the poor might access them and have something to eat. Gleaning was a way to be generous. It was an expression of holiness and a very clear way to recognize God’s benevolence and generosity.
The practice of gleaning leads us to think about how we are leaving room on the margins for those in need. It leads us to consider our own generosity. Sure, that sort of thing has to do with money, but it also causes us to consider how we are offering ourselves so that others might benefit. There are all sorts of ways to do that, both near and far.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Fruitfulness series. The Apostle Paul must have been quite familiar with the proverb, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” Interestingly, that proverb is not in the Bible save for when Paul quotes it in II Corinthians 9:6. Paul was well-aware of what it meant to be generous when he wrote to the Corinthian Church about taking an offering for the saints in Jerusalem. Paul knew that sowing generously was important to turning the heart toward generosity and making for an abundant harvest.
What Paul writes about in II Corinthians 9:6-11 clearly has to do with money. I am of the mind, though, that what he writes is more than applicable to the whole of life. Paul writes about the abundance of God’s grace which turns our hearts toward generosity in all facets of life. God’s generosity toward us in Christ is able to bless us abundantly, so that in ALL things, at ALL times, having ALL that we need, we will abound in every good work.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series about "Fruitfulness." Jesus was clear with his disciples about their going into all the world and making disciples. He consistently lifted this up throughout his ministry. He often used the image of a field ready for harvest. Jesus knew that what stood in the way of a bumper crop were the number of laborers willing to go into the field and bring the harvest in.
The notion that “the fields are white for the harvest” applies today. There are people all around us who need to hear a good word about Jesus. It comes to us to notice them. Just like the disciples, we are called to go. There are all sorts of reasons why we are hesitant about reaching out in this way. Most have to do with our fear. Nobody wants to be rejected. Rest assured, God would not call us to go if he weren’t ready to sustain us. After all, he is the one who makes the harvest possible.
Let’s honor him by going in his name.
“Don’t sweat the small stuff.” That’s a common reminder for a lot of us who have enough stress as it is in dealing with the big things of life! The small stuff will somehow work itself out, so let’s not make it harder than it already is.
But with this week’s parable about the mustard seed, we come to understand that Jesus places the importance on the small stuff! So what are we supposed to do with that?
I can’t wait to dig into this truth and what it means for us as we continue to live out our lives as fruitful disciples.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Fruitfulness series with a message about another parable.
Gardening takes a lot of work. It left unattended, a garden will spring up with weeds all over the place. Any gardener worth their salt will make sure those weeds don’t get a chance to take hold.
In his Parable of the Weeds Jesus has a good deal to say about the final judgement. He also speaks about judging others. More importantly, he addresses the idea of letting him tend to the fields of our lives. With his help, we’d do well to tend to the “weeds” that have a way of springing up and robbing us of the fruitfulness that God wants for our lives. The seed of God’s Kingdom is good in every way. It is the seed of the world we need to be wary of.
Pastor Tom Grieb kicks off our new series "Fruitfulness."
This week we consider the great parable often called The Parable of the Soils. In it, Jesus talks about four different soils that receive seed, each with varying results. Those soils speak very clearly to the disposition of our hearts.
Some have called this parable The Parable of the Extravagant Farmer. With that in mind, God is the focus of the parable, not the soils. We serve an extravagant God. He liberally broadcasts the seed of his Kingdom. That seed has a way of settling in and, with God’s help, grows and prospers, which is nothing short of miraculous given the state of our hearts at times.
Will Partin, President of GO Ministries, updates us on the discipleship efforts at GO Ministries, shares about his new responsibilities there, and encourages us to “go” as the Lord leads.
Pastor Ashley Adkins delivers a stand-alone message based on Matthew 28:16-20, "The Great Commission." Therefore. An adverb that means for that reason; because of that; or on that ground. When this word is used in Scripture, whether in “therefore” form or one of its synonyms, we know something is coming that commands our attention. When Jesus uses therefore in the Great Commission in Matthew 28, he does it so that not only would the disciples hear and apply his great direction, but so that we would hear it even more so today. It’s a new year. A new day. Will we live it the way Jesus commands us? Or will we continue to do what we have always done and expect different results?
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our "Images of Christmas" series with a message on how Jesus Christ is hope fulfilled, especially as seen through the eyes of Simeon and Anna when the baby Jesus was presented at the temple.
Pastor Tom Grieb brings a Christmas message in our "Images of Christmas" sermon series.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Images of Christmas. We shouldn’t be surprised that the shepherds play an important role in rounding out the images of Christmas. The angel of the Lord approached the shepherds with the greatest birth announcement ever with a message of “good news of great joy.” A baby had been born, and not just any baby, but the Savior of the world. God knew just what we needed in sending Jesus. He knew that humanity had become separated from him. Sin had gotten in the way. Through Jesus, God provided the way for us to be reconciled to him once and for all. It’s interesting that the news of Christ’s birth came first to a group of shepherds. Shepherds were somewhat on the periphery of everyday life. They were common folk. They worked hard and kept to themselves. By approaching the shepherds first, God was making the grand statement that Jesus was not just for a few, but for all. God’s good news in Jesus Christ is for all people.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Images of Christmas." In the minds of some, Joseph the earthly father of Jesus gets lost in the shuffle; not so with me. Joseph plays an important role in the birth of Christ. He also figures heavily in Christ’s early years. Joseph was quick to be present, looked to support and always to protect the precious gift that was Jesus. He is an inspiration for us all and a wonderful example of what it means to love those who are in our families. Joseph is also a great inspiration when it comes to living a life of faith. He sought to be faithfully obedient to what God asked him to do. Despite the challenges that presented themselves in and around Christ’s birth and later during his early years, Joseph remained faithful. He teaches us, above all, that acting faithfully is not only the way of Christmas, but the way God wants us to live the whole of life.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series “Images of Christmas.” It is good to give God praise. It is good to glorify his name. God is worthy of our praise. His presence alone strengthens and guides us along life’s way. A regular practice of giving God glory will only heighten our sense of his good work in our lives. This week we will be studying that great passage known as the Magnificat. It is the faithful prayer of a mother-to-be who seeks to give God glory above all else. Mary had been set aside by God to give birth to his only Son. In the uncertainty that this represented, Mary remained faithful. She would be true to what God had called her to do. That sort of faithful response is evident throughout the beautiful prayer she prays in Luke 1:46-55. In reading that prayer we can’t help but be encouraged to pray with the same sort of faith that leads us to glorify God for the things he is doing in our lives.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins begins our new series "Images of Christmas." Angels are a staple of Christmas. Whether on top of the Christmas tree, lit up in a window or on a ledge, or being portrayed by kids in annual Christmas pageants, angels have an important place in the story of Christmas. How much do we really know about these beings? It’s evident throughout Scripture that God uses angels to deliver his messages and carry out important tasks. There are lots of depictions and images we see all around of angels. But will we ever know their true identity and magnificence until we experience them for ourselves in glory? We are kicking off Advent this Sunday and I can’t wait to dig into some Angels 101 and to talk about the angel who launches our way to the manger, Gabriel.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our Partnership series. This morning we will celebrate our “partnership” together and, in particular, our “Partnership in Giving.” We will be studying Philippians 4:14-20 where we hear Paul commending the Philippians for their financial support. Paul is quick to recognize that their generosity did more for them than it did for him. Giving frees us to put our focus on God, extends our reach, and nurtures a generous spirit, which after all is where God wants us to be.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Partnership." Paul lets us in on a little secret. No, it really is a big secret. It’s the sort of secret that has everything to do with the way we live our lives. In Philippians 4:12, Paul talks about “the secret of being content in any and every circumstance.” He references the ability to be content whether in plenty or want. In an age where enough is never enough and having to do without is a major challenge, Paul challenges us to center ourselves in Christ. In fact, Paul asserts that in Christ who strengthens us, we are able to endure any circumstance. Paul was living proof of that. He knew what it meant to have a lot and to have nothing. He would not be swayed one way or another by that because his trust was in the sufficiency of Christ to provide just what he needed. We’d do well to put that into practice. That was Paul’s “secret” to living life; it should be ours as well.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our series "Partnership," based on Philippians. The Apostle Paul had a deep love affair with the church in Philippi. He was deeply appreciative of the support they directed his way. That support heartened him to no end. Paul expressed his appreciation not only to the church, but to God. Paul offered prayers of thanksgiving to God thanking him for the church there. He wrote in Philippians 1:3-5, “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” We are talking about that partnership and how it played out for Paul and those who made up the Philippian Church. It was a partnership that was founded in Christ and resulted in a great deal of effective ministry. To a large degree that partnership was expressed in a generosity borne out of a deep desire to be faithful to Christ.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins finishes up our "Storyline" series by digging into the storyline of Lydia. There’s not much written about her in Scripture, but we know the ripple effects of her willingness to serve God went on for many years and had great impact on spreading the Gospel. God prepared her heart, she accepted the truth of the Good News when she heard it, and she allowed God to move through her in all she did from that moment on.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Storyline." Those in the armed forces are used to taking orders. It just comes with the territory. For many, taking orders is not the easiest thing to do. For a fellow like Cornelius of Acts chapter 10, taking orders was second nature. Cornelius was a Centurion after all, an important part of the Roman legion. Cornelius’ willingness to follow orders cut much deeper. Not only was Cornelius a Centurion, but one whose desire it was to follow God. Cornelius dedicated himself regularly to prayer. He willingly gave to the poor. In a word, Cornelius was open to God’s direction. Cornelius’ obedience to God’s call upon his life made all the difference in his life and, quite frankly, to the overall ministry of the early New Testament Church. Cornelius’s conversion to Christianity freed the church to then go into all the world offering the good news about Jesus not only to Jews, but Gentiles as well.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Storyline." This week we move from the Old Testament to the New Testament with the story of the tax collector Zacchaeus. He was so short that he climbed a tree to see Jesus, from which Jesus immediately called him to come down. As Zacchaeus came down, something dramatic happened. Upon meeting Jesus, Zacchaeus’s life was forever changed. Jesus knew that Zacchaeus was primed to hear his call. He was not only primed to hear his call, but also to respond to it. Jesus has an innate ability to seek us out, just like he did Zacchaeus. That has everything to do with his grace.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Storyline" along with guest speaker Julie Love of the Kentucky United Methodist Children's Home. Everyone loves a good story. Especially stories that have unlikely heroes. And this week we get to dive into a story that has one of my favorite characters, Esther. Esther was a Jewish queen in a Gentile country – everything about that fact makes her story even more inspiring and one that points to the great things God can do to take care of his people. I can’t wait to dig into this story and how Esther answered God’s call and in doing so, risked everything.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our "Storyline" series and Don Dugan shares his testimony about missions. God is all about leading us beyond where we are to the very place, he wants us to be. New opportunities abound when it comes to ministry. It comes to us to respond. In Isaiah 6:1-8, God issues such a call to Isaiah. He does so by asking a couple of questions, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” It should be noted that God asked those questions in the context of worship. Worship, if anything, should send us forth. Isaiah was quick to respond to those two questions by saying, “Here I am. Send me!” He didn’t ask where. He didn’t consider how he would get there. He didn’t consult his calendar to see if what the Lord was calling him to do would fit in his otherwise busy schedule. Isaiah was simply ready to respond. That sort of readiness should be ours as well.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our new series, "Storyline."
Everyone has a story. Our stories are impacted by how God may be forming and fashioning our lives. Over the next few weeks we will be talking about how God calls us and how we in turn respond to that call. This week we will look at the call of God on Samuel’s life, and how Samuel responded: “Speak, for your servant is listening.” (I Samuel 3:10)
Pastor Ashlee Adkins concludes our discipleship series, "unhurried." We are exploring the final portion of our discipleship vision (to be a disciple is to a.c.t.) with “Take Action for Christ.” Bob Goff, in his amazing book, “Love Does”, says “…it seems to me that what God does most of the time when He has something to say is this…He doesn’t pass us messages, instead he passes us each other.” To ‘do’ for Christ isn’t easy. He tells us clearly throughout Scripture that this journey of discipleship will be hard. He also makes it very clear we aren’t meant to do it alone. We need encouragement, support, accountability, people to lean on, to share with, grow with, and to pray with.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our discipleship series, "unhurried." As Christian disciples, we can very well expect our lives to be different. We can expect God to be at work to transform us in all sorts of ways. While our circumstances may not always be to our liking, we will have the wherewithal to meet them. As God does his thing in our lives, our love for him and others will abound. The Christian faith is all about transformation. Our lives are made new. Paul talks about such things in II Corinthians 5:17 where he writes, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, that person is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” All of this is made possible when we offer ourselves to God. We are to do that as “a living sacrifice.” Offering ourselves as “a living sacrifice” is a matter of total commitment. We are either all in or we are not. Eugene Peterson paraphrases Romans 12:1 this way, “So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering.” This is the mark of a true disciple being transformed by the power of God in Christ Jesus.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "unhurried" about discipleship. As disciples, it comes to us to bear fruit. Fruitfulness is simply a by-product of being a Christ-follower. As we abide in Christ, fruitfulness will come. Jesus illustrates this beautifully in John 15 where he talks about the branch abiding in the vine. As the branch is positioned in the vine, fruit is borne. Sometimes pruning is needed to help things along. Being pruned spiritually is simply a part of following Christ. While not always easy, pruning leads us to abide even more, which in turn leads us to be even more fruitful. Jesus comes at it in a somewhat different way when he says in Matthew 16:24, “If anyone would come after me, that person must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” As we put our desires aside and wholly dedicate ourselves to Christ, we will find ourselves “abiding” in him. We will grow closer not only to Christ, but to those around us. In that, surely fruit will be born for his Kingdom. It was that way for Christ’s disciples as they gave themselves to him; it is that way for us as well.
Pastor Tom Grieb and Pastor Ashlee Adkins continue our discipleship series "unhurried." This week we take a close look at our part, the part of others, and the part God plays when it comes to making disciples. We share against the backdrop of that great passage from Philippians 2:1-5 where Paul encourages us to have the same attitude as that of Christ when it comes to putting the needs of others ahead of our own.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "unhurried" about discipleship. If we are really interested in discipleship, then we need to consider how Jesus did it. That will point us to how Jesus interacted with his disciples. There’s no doubt that he taught them a lot, but Jesus went much further than simply instructing his disciples. He opened his life to them, living as a model for how they were to live. Jesus also gave his disciples plenty of opportunity to give ministry a try. He was all about sending them out. This is the rhythm of discipleship: instruction, example, and sending forth. Paul was also all about discipleship and raising up leaders for service within Christ’s church. In Colossians 3:12ff., Paul offers a list of characteristics that every Christian should “put on” as they seek to be in relationship with others. Paul also talks about “the word of Christ dwelling richly” in every Christian so others are taught and encouraged in the faith. The right balance of invitation and challenge form the basis of helping persons along in the faith.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins begins our new series "unhurried." We are digging into discipleship for the next six weeks, specifically about how we are called to live in this fast-paced, always on-the-go world. So, how do we live as Christ’s disciples? Why is it so important that we talk about this now?
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series "Majoring in the Minors." This Sunday we wrap up our present sermon series on the Minor Prophets, studying form the Book of Malachi. Malachi has a way of putting us on notice when it comes to a half-hearted response toward God. Yes, there’s that theme of judgement that has surfaced so often during this study. Malachi also offers a word of hope as he points to the future. He sees God acting in a decisive way. He sees God sending the long-awaited Messiah. “The sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays, says the Lord.” We have come to know that as a prophecy come true. God did act by sending his Son Jesus Christ, the light of the world. In him there is true healing and wholeness.
Pastors Tom Grieb and Ashlee Adkins continue our "Majoring in the Minors" series. We turn to the rebuilding of the temple. I can imagine what a wonderful process this was, after all the destruction, fear, war, and fall. Hope was felt once again. Trust in God was reassured and his promises once again visible. The obedience it took on behalf of so many to build that temple, brought a renewed spirituality – one that felt like a rain storm in the middle of a very long drought. These days we are all in need of some encouragement. It’s been all too easy these past months to lose focus. In some ways, it feels like we have been exiled as well, separated from the life we had grown accustomed to. In our second to last Minors sermon, Haggai and Zechariah bring us encouragement. And just as they needed it then, we need it now.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Majoring in the Minors."
Ask and ye shall receive. A couple weeks ago, we talked about Nahum and he brought the hammer! Some of you wanted a part two of that teaching, and guess what? You are gonna get it!
This week we turn to Zephaniah – who brings the hammer as well. But he finishes where Nahum does not. With a beautiful promise of hope and salvation for those few righteous of the remnant left after the destruction of Judah.
NOTE: When Pastor Ashlee calls for reflection, her slides are included in the Notes PDF file.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Majoring in the Minors" with a message from the prophet Habakkuk.
Every so often things get so tough that we wonder where God is in the mix. We may even want to have a “word” with him. We wonder why things are happening as they are. We figure that since we believe, we should be exempt from some of life’s problems. We all know from experience that that’s not the case.
Habakkuk, one of the Minor Prophets who prophesied during a very tough time, challenged God about such things. He wondered out loud why things were as they were. Instead of offering a word from the Lord, he offered a word to God. He gives voice to those times when we wonder out loud.
In the end, Habakkuk came to resolve that if everything was taken away, he would still praise the Lord. He resolved to put his faith in God even if circumstances weren’t very good. I had a professor years ago call that “disinterested religion.” Disinterested religion is a pursuit of God that is not for selfish gain, but to simply know the Lord and to follow his ways.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series. "Majoring in the Minors" with a message from the prophet Nahum.
The Old Testament can be tough to read at times. Stories of destruction, brutality, assault, and oppression are found throughout. And even harder, sometimes that destruction and annihilation is set forth because of God’s wrath. How do we reconcile God’s judgement and forgiveness? How do we grasp God’s hate of evil with his love of humanity?
God brings the hammer in the Scripture we will be talking about this week. And while it’s important to understand God’s judgement and his desire for justice, we shouldn’t take advantage of the fact that he is slow to anger. We know it’s always best not to test God. The good news is that the hammer isn’t where the story ends.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Majoring in the Minors."
Stories make up the fabric of our lives. We all have stories to tell, including the prophet Jonah. He told the story of resisting the call of the Lord and how that worked out for him. Jonah resisted so much that he attempted to run away to the furthermost point of the known world. While on board a ship bound for Tarshish, Jonah was thrown overboard in the midst of a violent storm and landed in the belly of a big fish. While in there Jonah did a lot of soul searching and quite a bit of praying. The Lord heard those prayers and directed the fish to spew Jonah out on the shore. It was then that Jonah rather half-heartedly made his way to Nineveh to challenge them to repent. The Ninevites did just that, to Jonah’s great disdain.
The story offered in the Book of Jonah is one that should challenge us all about the call we receive from God and how we respond to that call. The Book of Jonah should challenge us about our faithfulness when the Lord does call. It should challenge us to examine our own hearts when it comes to reaching out to those we may not ordinarily associate with.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Majoring in the Minors."
The Prophet Joel writes against the backdrop of an invasion of locusts. Those locusts, unlike the cicadas that have recently visited us, caused massive destruction. They essentially wiped out all the crops and left everyone without food. That calamity presented Joel with the opportunity to have people consider God’s judgement. In the mix of that he called the people to repentance.
Joel was also quick to assert that God would pour out his Spirit. God’s Spirit would see the people through and bring them to the other side. In the end Joel asserted that “all who called upon the name of the Lord would be saved.”
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Majoring in the Minors."
We are entering the third week of our summer series as we continue looking into the minor prophets. This week we are digging into a very familiar passage from Micah. Perhaps our Scripture for this week is one of your favorites; it maybe even be your life verse. From chapter 6: “Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly.” The prophets sure know how to cut to the chase and get into the heart of the matter.
I’m excited to explore this passage with you. I’ve been challenged from learning more about the state of things when Micah delivered this requirement of God to all of Israel and I know you will be challenged as well. In usual prophet fashion, Micah delivers a requirement that isn’t only what it seems.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Majoring in the Minors."
The prophets have a way of holding a mirror in front of us, forcing us to take a good look at ourselves. The Prophet Amos was no exception. Amos is one of those Minor Prophets who engages us in a major way. Amos causes us to consider our dealings with the poor. He puts us on notice about the injustices we promote, sometimes unwittingly. Amos challenges us about the self-righteousness that has a way of creeping into our lives when we figure we have it all together when we really don’t. That sort of posture always puts us to looking down on others.
The Prophet Amos speaks a very clear word that’s not always easy to hear. Amos, like the other of the prophets we will be studying this summer, causes us not only to think, but to look deep within. In the end, we are challenged to respond.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our new series "Majoring in the Minors."
I am excited about our next sermon series. We will be studying the so-called Minor Prophets. There is nothing minor about the Minor Prophets. They speak with authority and are just as relevant today as the day they first spoke. The summer lends itself very well to a corporate Bible study and our study of the twelve Minor Prophets will be no exception, particularly given the times in which we live.
This Sunday we will be studying from the Book of Hosea. Hosea has been called a “Prophet of Love.” Hosea challenges us to reflect upon God’s love, despite our failings. In God’s love, those who otherwise would be considered “nobodies” are “somebodies” in God’s sight.
The Hebrew word, HESED, is used liberally in the Book of Hosea. It is best translated “lovingkindness” or “mercy.” God’s lovingkindness and mercy extended our way enables us to interact with others in the same way. Lovingkindness and mercy become a way of life, even when our religiosity gets in the way.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series "Emerging. Nobody said it would be easy. We know from experience that life can be hard. We know that circumstances can get to us. They can weigh us down to no end if we let them. Thankfully, though, the Holy Spirit walks alongside us to strengthen us in the mix of whatever we might be facing. And as if that is not enough, we always have the hope and promise of eternal life. Paul knew full well of God’s help during a time of suffering. Paul suffered in all sorts of ways but remained above that with the help and strength of the Holy Spirit. His hope in eternal life also helped. About such things Paul writes in Romans 8:18, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Paul was rightly convinced that God was Lord of both this life and the next, and in that was buoyed regardless of what the world threw at him.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Emerging." It’s all too easy to get parched when it comes to our spiritual lives. Considering all we have faced over the past year or so, it has been awfully easy to slip into a dry spell when it comes to our relationship with God. God stands ready to offer refreshment to our weary souls. God provides just what we need to be refreshed in every way. Paul writes in Romans 5:5 about the love of God being “poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” The image of the Spirit being “poured” into our lives speaks to the very refreshment needed to satisfy a parched and weary soul. The Holy Spirit was given to God’s people at Pentecost following Christ’s ascension. The gift of the Holy Spirit gave birth to the church. The Holy Spirit empowered the church to no end. The Spirit was the very love of God poured out to God’s people. The Holy Spirit is still available today. The Spirit is still moving. God wants to fill us to the overflowing, particularly those who find themselves spiritually dry.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Emerging."
The prophet Isaiah spoke a hopeful word to a wearied people who found themselves exiled in a faraway land. The fall of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. at the hands of the Babylonians saw the Southern Kingdom of Judah carted off in exile to the homeland of their captors. It was a horrible time indeed. The people of God were shattered to the core. They wondered how any of this could have happened. They even wondered if God had abandoned them.
Enter the prophet Isaiah and his encouraging word, “Comfort, comfort, my people, says your God.” The prophet goes on to talk about a highway that would be formed in the desert, hastening their return to normalcy. Above all things, Isaiah talked about strength for those who were tired and weary. Soon God’s people would be heading home, “soaring on wings like eagles, running and not growing weary, walking and not becoming faint.”
As God’s people emerged from their exile, he empowered them in every way. God stands to do the same for you and me in the mix of the very things we face. Even as we emerge from a season of pandemic, God stands to lead us to a brighter day.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Emerging."These days, when someone mentions rest, a common response is, “Rest? What is that?” Most of us struggle to find the time to rest and when we do, it seems a struggle to actually enjoy it. Forty percent of American workers feel overworked. Half of all workers feel they have too much work to finish in a typical week. Two-thirds report not having enough time to spend with their spouse, and three-fourths report not having enough time with their children. Even seniors, who could be thought of as teachers of rest, actually feel flattened by all the tasks they need and want to do in a day’s time.So, what is this rest I speak of? How do we find time for it? And when/if we do, how do we actually allow ourselves to enjoy it? I’ll give you a hint – it’s all about Jesus.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Emerging."God is consistently calling us to look up and, in looking up, to draw near to him. God’s help is always at the ready. His every desire is to keep us strong and steady as he watches over our lives. It comes to us to draw near to him with faith, taking one step of faith at a time. Whatever valley you might find yourself in, God’s beckons you to look to him. He will not let you down. “I lift my eyes to the mountains,” writes the Psalmist in Psalm 121, “where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.”
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Emerging."Hope is one of the necessary ingredients of life. It helps us to reach beyond where we are to see a brighter day. As we emerge from all we have faced over the past year, it is hope that will move us forward. In fact, if we are honest with ourselves, hope has been sustaining us all along. Our hope in Christ has particularly done that. Christ is our “living hope” who informs our lives whether we find ourselves in good times or bad. The hope we have in Christ is sealed through his resurrection from dead. Because Christ emerged victoriously from the grave, you and I have hope for this life and the next.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins begins our new series, "Emerging."With springtime, comes new blooms and new growth. Not only for nature, but for us. We grow and become who God has called us to be because we have hope in who Jesus Christ is and the great things he has done.This week, we are kicking off a new series about emerging. We are doing just that, friends. Not only because things are beginning to look a bit more normal, but because each day is a new opportunity to seize challenge and time so we can not only live in the hope of Jesus, but offer that hope with others. Today, and every day.
Pastor Tom Grieb and Pastor Ashlee Adkins conclude our Lenten/Easter series "In His Steps."All of Christ’s post-resurrection appearances are special, each in their own way. One that has always heartened me is when Jesus directed a group of his disciples who were fishing to cast their nets on the right side of the boat. Upon doing that, they took in a tremendous haul. In reading that account in John 21:1-14, we become immediately aware that the risen Christ has a way of appearing in the everyday discourse of life and making his way into our lives as he seeks to guide and direct us.None of us should be surprised at the tremendous haul the disciples took in. The upshot is that Jesus always tends to our needs. We see that not only in the number of fish that was caught, but in the invitation he extended to the disciples to come and have breakfast with him. Jesus received his disciples, just as he does us.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series "In His Steps."Easter is fast upon us and with it a day of great rejoicing. At Easter we find ourselves heartened to no end. Emerging from the despair of a horrible death, Jesus offers new life now and eternal life later on. He conquers the grave offering a hope that never ends. We will be talking about those five great words shared by Mary Magdalene, “I have seen the Lord.” Those words ring through the ages and offer the promise that Christ lives to this day. It comes to us then to look for the resurrected Lord in our own lives. As we see him with eyes of faith may we find ourselves growing closer to him.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our Lenten/Easter series "In His Steps" with a message about Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series "In His Steps."Every year pilgrims from all around the known world flooded into Jerusalem for the Passover. It was thought that every righteous Jew needed to celebrate the Passover at least once in the Holy City. The year of Christ’s Triumphant Entry was no different. There was always a lot going on in Jerusalem during Passover. People not only took in the sights and sounds but looked to engage however they could in whatever was going on.As Christ entered Jerusalem at the beginning of Passover Week people were all astir to catch a glimpse. Many had heard about him. Some had even seen him work his great signs and wonders. Others had heard him teach and their hearts were warmed. Still others were simply caught up in the crowd.As Jesus entered the Holy City he rode on the back of a young donkey, fulfilling a prophecy found in Zechariah 9:9. People waved palm branches as an expression of praise. Others went so far as to proclaim him “King of Israel.” Along the periphery were the Pharisees who were witnessing their power base eroding away. In their minds, something had to be done, which set in motion the events that took place later that week. Very quickly, things moved from celebration to the cross, which is the very rhythm of the Holy Week.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our Lenten/Easter series "In His Steps."“To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.” Wise and cautionary words from Martin Luther. Prayer and believing in Jesus Christ cannot be separated. When we look to the person of Jesus and his time on earth, we know he prayed. And he did so because he knew that to fulfill his purpose and stay in the will of God, prayer was the key. Prayer that kept him aligned, in relationship, and in tune with the Father.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series "In His Steps."Spring is just about upon us for which all of us are excited, particularly given the long winter made even longer because of the rigors of the Covid-19 Pandemic. In just a few weeks life will be emerging all around us. We remember in this that life has been there all along. Presently, we find ourselves emerging as well. There is hope in the air that we are emerging from the Pandemic, though we realize we have a way to go. So, as we emerge, you and I would do well to stay connected to God and to one another. Jesus teaches about such things when he references the vine and the branches in John 15. When the branch is well-connected to the vine, fruitfulness abounds. For us, that has everything to do with our relationship with God and certainly our relationships with other people. God’s every desire for us is that we stay well-connected to him. It is the very thing that makes for a fruitful life. During the Pandemic we have all had to do things differently. In a lot of ways, we have had to cut back on what we would have normally done. There has been a lot of pruning going on and I would assert that God has done a lot of that, all with an interest in helping us emerge stronger, more faithful, and more fruitful than we have ever been.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series "In His Steps."“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” These words of Jesus from John 14:1 encourage us no end—for this life and for the next. They are words Jesus offered his disciples as he faced the cross. Jesus wanted to hearten his disciples just as he does us. In a world filled with all sorts of trouble (and let’s face it there is enough trouble to go around these days), it is good to hear a heartening word. Jesus offers these words not only for the present but the future as well. Jesus also talks about going and preparing a place for us. Indeed, our faith is squarely built on the truth that for those who so believe there is a place set aside in eternity. Through Christ we have hope for today and even brighter hope for tomorrow. All of this is stamped as true as Jesus leads the way by dying on the cross and rising from the dead.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series "In His Steps."What Jesus did on the cross is the greatest show of love that has ever been. In the cross, God was glorified and so was his Son. You are I are the beneficiaries of that love as we share in the salvation Christ makes possible.In John 13, Jesus spoke a good deal about love as he wrapped up the meal he had with his disciples in the Upper Room. He offered a “new” commandment for those who would follow him. He wanted them to “love one another.” The “new” commandment Jesus offered has its foundation in Leviticus 19:18 where it says, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” The “new” twist Jesus put on that commandment had everything to do with the identity of those who would follow him. Love for one another is the very thing that sets us apart.“As I have loved, so you must love one another,” says Jesus. We are to love as Christ loved. His was a sacrificial love that led him not only to wash his disciple’s feet, but to give his life on the cross so that we might be saved. The sacrificial love Christ exhibited on the cross is the model for all who would follow him, you and I included.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Lenten/Easter series "In His Steps."The Gospel of John gives a fuller picture of what went on in the Upper Room the night Jesus was betrayed. While the meal is not so much mentioned as in the other gospels, Christ’s desire to teach about servanthood is. It is in John’s gospel where we find the account of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet. By so doing, Jesus offers the supreme example of what it means to be a servant leader. He kneels at the feet of each disciple demonstrating the sort of humility that comes with true service. Of course, the greatest example of Christ’s selfless service is his death on the cross. So then in this account we learn about Jesus. He is the supreme example of a servant. We also learn about ourselves and do so through the life of Peter. Peter was quick to refuse Christ’s offer to wash his feet. If you have ever had your feet washed, you know that it is quite disarming. It might be that in refusing Christ’s offer Peter was expressing his unworthiness. It might also be that Peter figured he was at an okay place and didn’t need his feet washed. Regardless, Peter refused Christ’s offer, that is, until Jesus responded by saying, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”
Pastor Ashlee Adkins begins our Lenten/Easter series "In His Steps."This message is from our Ash Wednesday service.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series "New Habits/Old Habits." All through this series, I have been both challenged and inspired. To be honest, the "holy habits” we’ve been talking about have gained quite a bit of traction in my life since the first of the year. As we draw the sermon series to a close, I pray that all of us will employ the sort of habits that draw us closer to God and one another. It’s interesting that this last sermon in the series puts us right at the precipice of the great season of Lent. I can’t believe it, but Ash Wednesday is next week. In preparation for Lent, by intention, we will be talking about fasting. Fasting is something that most of us don’t practice on a regular basis. It is something though that we do during Lent, at least in some form or fashion. I will be the first to admit that fasting is one of the tougher spiritual disciplines for me. I have fasted plenty of times, but it hasn’t always been easy. That might be your experience as well. That being the case, we will talk frankly this Sunday about the grand opportunity that is ours to fast, and how fasting really can invigorate our spiritual lives and bear much fruit for God’s Kingdom. We’ll talk about what it means to make this “holy habit” a regular part of lives as we study Christ’s thoughts on the subject as recorded in Matthew 6:16-18.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Old Habits/New Habits."
Have you ever planned a party or an event where you had to ensure all the details were thought through, all the fixings were prepared, and each moment was scheduled and accounted for?
This Sunday we are talking about my favorite thing: communion. Communion has looked different for us for a long time now, but the important thing is that we have continued to create space to celebrate the bread and cup and all the truth that communion carries. Communion is an essential means of grace that God gives us to remember the great gift he so freely gives us.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Old Habits/New Habits."
Upon the rush of the mighty wind of God’s Spirit at Pentecost, Peter took to preaching. He broke into a Spirit-filled witness of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Those who listened were ready to respond. As the scripture says, “They were cut to the heart.” They were ready to give themselves to Christ. “What shall we do?” they asked. And Peter responded by saying, “Repent and be baptized every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Every good sermon should leave us asking what we need to do, and Peter’s sermon that first Pentecost was no different.
Those who gathered there were called to repentance. They were challenged to make an about-face and seek the Lord and his forgiveness. They were to be transformed by the renewing of their mind and heart. They were also called to be baptized, the very thing that marked them as Christian disciples. The waters of baptism pointed to the wonderworking power of God to forgive sin and set them on a new course.
The call to repent and be baptized still remains. We too are called to turn away from whatever separates us from God so that we might more readily turn to him. We are called to continually renew our baptism, refreshing not only our memory of that, but taking it on again for the day in which we live. And when we do, we can be well-assured that the Holy Spirit will fall upon us anew. Our lives will be renewed, and we will rejoice in the relationship that is ours in God through Jesus Christ.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Old Habits/New Habits."Since the beginning of the year, we have considered some of the classic spiritual disciplines; namely, prayer, Bible study, and worship. A regular practice of these will put us in closer relationship with God. They are the sort of habits we need to have in place as we make our way into the new year. This Sunday we consider yet another spiritual discipline, but one of a different sort. This week we will be considering service. Serving also puts us in close relationship with God. Who of us hasn’t reached out to serve in God’s name and pulled away from that service thinking, “I received a greater blessing than the one I offered?” That blessing comes from experiencing God through service.As we talk about service this week, we will do so against the backdrop of the misguided ambition of James and John who desired to sit at the right and left of Christ. The two wanted to be noticed. They wanted to be seen in a place of power and position. To be seated at the right or left of a dignitary was viewed as a place of prestige. That may have been the case for the kingdoms of the world, but not for Christ’s Kingdom. Christ’s Kingdom was all about humility and service. That is Christ’s way for all who seek to follow him.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Old Habits/New Habits."If I were to ask you, ‘Why do you worship?” how would you respond? I think there are a lot of underlying things that would need to be addressed before any of us could accurately answer. For instance, our understanding of “What is worship?” Perhaps our answer to one question may answer the other.Eugene Peterson says this, “Worship is an act that develops feelings for God, not a feeling for God that is expressed in an act of worship.” The Psalms have a great way of bringing our attention to the wonderful ways of God - his attributes, promises, and his love for us. But how do we allow the Psalms to live out through us? Are there old habits we need to move away from in order to build the new habits that bring worship and praise to God more evidently in our lives?
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Old Habits/New Habits."Bible study is one of those “holy habits” that every one of us would do well to make a part of our lives. God is able to speak through his word in ways he is able to do no other way. God is able to both challenge and inspire us through scripture. Through scripture God is able to guide our way and provide a mooring in uncertain and choppy waters. The Psalmist writes in Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” I am thankful for the guidance God provides in his word. Whenever I read scripture, I ask myself, “What is God saying to me?” and “What am I going to do about it?” These two questions put me to listening intently and preparing my heart to act. James writes in James 1:22, “Do not merely listen to the word. Do what it says.” Through his word God not only speaks but prepares our hearts to act. In the end, Bible study is not so much about information, but transformation that leads to God’s good work being done in and through us.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our new series "Old Habits/New Habits."As we enter the new year, we’ll be talking about those things that, if regularly practiced, help us face whatever might come our way. We’ll be talking about breaking old habits that need breaking and developing new ones that lead to a new way of approaching life. We’ll consider such things as prayer, Bible study, worship, service, the sacraments, and fasting, realizing that all of these are a means to an end. A regular practice of these “means of grace” will ultimately bring us to a closer relationship with God, which always puts us right where we need to be whatever the year. This Sunday, we’ll be talking about prayer. What better thing to talk about as we begin the new year? If we simply resolve to pray more often and with an intent to connect with God more faithfully, we will find ourselves better prepared to meet whatever 2021 might bring. Our scripture for this Sunday is from the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus talks about prayer. Let me encourage you to read and re-read, Matthew 6:5-15.
Pastors Tom Grieb and Ashlee Adkins conclude our Advent/Christmas series "Signs."They talk about Christ's fulfillment of the prophet Isaiah's prophecy that he would be the one to bring good news to the poor, and more.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Advent/Christmas series "Signs."The birth of Jesus meant many things to many people when it happened and continues to do so today. How do you respond?
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Advent/Christmas series "Signs."The Prophet Isaiah brings “good news of great joy” about the coming Messiah seven hundred years before the Messiah comes. Isaiah prophesies that a child will be born and upon his shoulders will be the mantle of a brand-new Kingdom. You and I are citizens of that Kingdom not because of what we have done or what we have earned, but by the very grace of God. God has so blessed us in Jesus, which is a fact we are keenly aware of this season of the year. Isaiah is quick to offer names for the One who is to come. He will be called “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.” These are the names of a king of a different sort, but then again that is who Jesus is. God has sent his Son to lend direction, give power, offer provision, and complete our lives with an overwhelming sense of peace. Jesus does these things and so much more.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our Advent/Christmas series "Signs."Leadership is defined in so many ways. When we walk into bookshops, browse seminars and trainings, we see hundreds upon hundreds of options – everyone wants guidance on how to be better leaders.Judah was in desperate need of good leadership, and Isaiah was just the man to point them to the leader this world needed, and still needs. The leader of which he prophesied was going to show this world a type of leadership that would shake, jolt, and change it forever. It is a leadership we all need to aspire to everyday.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our Advent series "Signs."God’s glory is all around us and approaches us in surprising ways. We look for his glory a bit more this season of the year. We are more alert to his work. We are more open to his movement in our lives. In spite of all that works to draw us away, we seek to stay focused on him. The glory of the Lord surrounded all that took place in and around the birth of Jesus. The glory of the Lord shone brightly around the shepherds as they tended their flocks by night. God’s glory had certainly gotten their attention and drew them to the stable where Christ was born. Once there the heavenly host was heard singing, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Because God’s glory intersected everyday life as it did, those involved couldn’t help but return glory God’s way. For us, being touched by the glory of God always leads to giving God glory for the great things he has done, particularly when it comes to the gift of his Son, Jesus Christ.The prophet Isaiah also talked about the glory of God. It was one of the signs that pointed to the great things God was about to do. Speaking to a people in exile, the prophet spoke of a day of redemption where all concerned would see “the glory of the Lord.” We live in a day of redemption as well, and the glory of the Lord is evident, Our Redeemer, Christ our Lord, is at work in our lives.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our new series "Signs."We are always looking for signs of God’s good work in everyday life. While the evidence of that work is all around us, we don’t always notice it. That is particularly true during Advent and Christmas. There is so much that vies for our attention this season of the year that we are all too easily drawn to other things. Nevertheless, we’d do well to look for signs of God’s good work and not let the swirl of the things around us divert our attention. All along God has provided signs that have pointed his people to the very things he wanted to accomplish. Often those signs were delivered by his prophets, including Isaiah. Isaiah was quick to look ahead and envision a day when God would act in a powerful way by sending the Messiah into the life of the world. Isaiah, of all the prophets, was clear about God’s every desire to send his Son, the Prince of Peace.As we move into Advent, we will be taking a close look at selected passages from Isaiah that have for centuries been recognized as pointing to the coming Messiah and have been understood as signs of God’s will for his creation. This week we will be studying one of those passages, Isaiah 2:1-5. It very clearly offers a vision of God’s Kingdom under the rule of the Messiah and how that rule will be one of peace.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins concludes our series "The Grace of Giving.Paul makes it very clear that generosity leads to two things – meeting needs and thanksgivings to God. He calls on us to be obedient in our generosity because it’s a necessity of being a Christian and of being a reflection of Jesus through our actions and our words.But in order for those needs to be met and for thanksgivings to be offered to God, we first have to be generous with our time, our talents, and our resources. Even though we are in the midst of the holiday season, a time to be grateful and generous, it can also be tough to do both. But we have to, now and each day.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "The Grace of Giving."You have heard the expression, “You reap what you sow.” That is certainly true for those in agriculture. If a farmer doesn’t sow, then that farmer won’t have much of a crop. In everyday life, if we sow seeds of discontent, anger, and malice, then the return will be the same. Divisions will abound and hatred will prevail. On the other hand, if we sow seeds of love, harmony, and peace, then those things will begin to take root. The adage, “you reap what you sow” holds true when it comes to giving. When we sow the seeds of generosity, good things begin to happen. Not only are others helped and supported, but our hearts are warmed with the knowledge that we have engaged in the privilege of making a difference. When we give generously to the ministry of the church, we know that the return is many-fold. In a word, God’s Kingdom is furthered. When we sow generously the potential for a great harvest is real, and like giving in other ways, our hearts will be warmed. When we give to the things of God’s Kingdom our focus becomes less on ourselves and more so on God. We find ourselves freed from the hold of our possessions, which become wholly dedicated to God in response to his many blessings.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "The Grace of Giving."Giving is all about want to. Willingness plays an important role whenever we give. Getting to the root of why we give and the reason for our “want to” rests with Christ. While there are all sorts of reasons people give, Jesus is the real reason for our giving. If you think about it, he was the one who went to great lengths to give. He went so far as to give his own life so we might live as God would want us to live, in relationship with him. In response to that we can’t help but give. Paul, in talking about such things in II Corinthians 8:9 says, “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.” In light of that, it becomes quite clear that we simply can’t out give God. Through Christ, God not only offers new life now, but eternal life later.
Pastor Tom Grieb kicks off our new series "The Grace of Giving."God’s blessings are abundant. We share in those blessings all the time. God’s provisions are many. He cares for our every need. All of this is a matter of grace. The free gift of his amazing grace is an expression of love that has profound affect upon us. We are overwhelmed by his love and because of that find ourselves at a much better place to return that love not only God’s way, but toward others. As God gives and gives and gives again, we can’t help but turn and give as well. This too is a matter of grace. The grace of giving is a privilege indeed.In II Corinthians 8:1-7 we learn of the church in Macedonia that counted giving as a real privilege. In spite of the trials they were facing, their joy overflowed and welled up in “rich generosity.” As Paul made his rounds to the various churches he had started, he collected an offering for the saints in Jerusalem. The Macedonian Church pleaded for the opportunity to give to that offering. They not only wanted to give, but they needed to give as an expression of their deep and abiding love for the Lord.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins concludes our series "Well-Connected."We all know how typical superhero movies go: there’s a villain, a superhero, maybe a couple of good Samaritans that somehow get into the mix; and the villain is defeated by the superhero along with the good Samaritans. There are countless villains in countless stories, and in God’s story, it’s no different. There is a villain – a villain I like to call ‘the enemy.”The enemy has various forms and, while mysterious and hard for us to understand, is powerless against God. But as humans we struggle against the enemy, so God gives us an armor of protection. Through his empowerment and strength, we use it to stand against the enemy. We don’t use this armor against one another, but against the devil’s wiles and the enemy to protect, to ensure we reflect the love of God into the world, and to live as though we know the enemy has been defeated by the great King of Kings.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Well-Connected."God’s every desire is for us to mature in the faith. That sort of thing comes from a lifelong journey of relationship with Christ. All along we are challenged to move from the “milk of the gospel” to solid food. We should never be content to stay as we are. We are to be open to the movement of God’s Spirit to move us along. God doesn’t want us stuck, mired, or otherwise stagnant. He longs for our spiritual lives to be vital and vibrant in every way. It is possible to grow old and not grow up. That’s certainly true when it comes to our life in Christ. I challenge myself often by asking whether I am different today than I was yesterday. By so doing, I pause to consider if I am really allowing God to do his thing in my life. I do pray that I am becoming more and more like Christ, not because of anything I’m doing, but because of what God is doing in me. I pray that I am “growing up” in the faith by studying God’s Word dutifully, praying for God’s will fervently, serving in God’s name humbly, giving to God’s Kingdom generously, and sharing God’s love regularly.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Well-Connected."In the quest to “live a live worthy of the calling we have received” we’d do well to consider how Christ is shaping us for ministry, realizing that what Christ does in us is a matter of grace. That’s why Paul can say in Ephesians 4:7, “But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned us.” Each and every one of us would do well to consider how God’s grace is at work in our lives and how that grace is fitting us for the very things he wants us to do. Paul suggests that when it comes to such things certain roles need to be fulfilled. In Ephesians 4:11, Paul talks about apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. As these roles are fulfilled the church will become more unified, its knowledge of Christ will abound, and maturity will be evidenced for all to see.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our new series "Well-Connected."The Apostle Paul urges us to live a life worth living. He writes in Ephesians 4:1, “I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling we have received.” In our dealings with others we are to be humble, gentle, patient, and full of love. That’s particularly the case when it comes to church. The Spirit of God binds us together and unifies us. We become one body, just as there is “one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all.” Because of the work of the God’s Spirit in our midst we are able to Huddle Up, enjoying not only the presence of God, but the presence of others.
Guest Speaker Will Partin of G.O. Ministries wraps up our series "inside OUT."This sermon series has challenged us to keep our focus outward. Inside/out is a rhythm for every Christian. As we tend to things inside, we find ourselves at a much better place to be concerned about things “outside.” As our relationship with Christ grows, our ability to relate to others grows as well. We will find ourselves so much more effective in seeking to further God’s Kingdom, whether it be near or far.And speaking of “far,” today we hear from Will Partin as he delivers the message. Will grew up at Saint John and for over a decade has been doing wonderful ministry in the Dominican Republic through G.O. Ministries. Will clearly exemplifies what it means to live inside/out.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "inside OUT."The church in Antioch took seriously the responsibility of sending people out. In the case of Paul and Barnabas, they not only recognized God’s call upon them, but set them apart for the work God was calling them to do. In and through it all, the church there left plenty of room for the Holy Spirit to move. You and I can learn from that. We, too, need to leave plenty of room for the Spirit to move as we consider what God might be calling us to do, individually and as a church.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "inside OUT."When it comes to the Kingdom, it is always harvest time. There are always those around us who are “ripe for the harvest,” when it comes to them responding to the call of God upon their lives. What is needed are those willing to bring in that harvest. It comes to you and me to be ever vigilant when it comes to reaching out in the name of our Lord. We are to be ever mindful of those around us who would do well to hear a good word about God’s good news in Jesus Christ. Jesus leaves it to us to bring in the harvest when he says in Matthew 9:37-38, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, to send workers into his field.” His plan is for you and me to head out into the field wherever that might be and seek to make a difference in Christ’s name. By word and deed, we are called to be Christ’s people wherever we are. We are called to share as he leads to the end that a great harvest is brought in for the Kingdom of God.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "inside OUT."Paul has a way of delivering humble pie through his letters. And he doesn’t disappoint in the first letter to the Corinthians either. Paul emphasizes to the church that he and Apollos, pastors and leaders in the foundation and growth of the church, were nothing, simply servants. Servants and instruments of the great someone, God the grower and giver of life.While Paul is overemphasizing the unimportance of he and Apollo’s roles, he does impress the importance of each person having a part in the great kingdom work. And while everyone is born with different talents and gifts, we all have the same purpose – to reflect God and share the good news. And we cannot do that work, we cannot point or bring glory to God, without God. He is the one already doing the work, and we simply join him to do our part. Hallelujah.
Mike & Sherri of Thailand Now continue our series "inside OUT." The Morrisseys have served in Thailand for a number of years and share their experience.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "inside OUT."
We are challenging ourselves these days with the word, “out.” We know from scripture that our gaze always needs to be “out.” As we tend to things inside, we will find ourselves better prepared to tend to things outside.
When it comes to reaching out there’s a reluctance that surfaces that says a lot about ourselves and what we think about God. We are hesitant to go outside our comfort zones. We are cautious about getting involved. We are tentative about reaching out to those who are different than ourselves. We might even doubt God’s provision to equip us with the very things we will need to fulfill his call.
Jonah was a guy who had all those things at play in his life. He was called by God to go to Nineveh and preach there. Jonah, though, would hear nothing of it. He even attempted to run away, but God pursued him all the more. God didn’t give up on Jonah. Rather begrudgingly, Jonah made it to Nineveh. While there he preached a half-hearted sermon on repentance that bore great fruit.
The upshot is this: you and I can’t hide from God when it comes to his call upon our lives. It comes to each of us to be his “witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth,” wherever those places and people may be for us.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins starts our new series "inside OUT."
We all have stories to tell. Whether they are funny, inspiring, exciting, and adventurous; or stories that are personal, lighthearted, difficult; or stories about our families, our friends, some that are true and some that may be exaggerated (a little). The most important story we have to tell however, is one of truth. One that is deeply ours and a part of HIStory. A story about true, unconditional love that is vast, deep, and grace-filled. The story about Jesus and about our experience of him and the great love he shares with us.
This Sunday, we kick-off a new series called, inside OUT. A series that will challenge us to live boldly and outwardly so that his light will shine through our words and our actions.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our From the Mount series.
We wrap up our study of the Sermon on the Mount this Sunday with Jesus challenging us about the direction of our lives. He states that wide is the gate that leads to destruction. It is the gate chosen by far too many. Jesus also talks about another gate, It’s the narrow gate that, while relatively few chose to walk through, leads to new life. How we choose not only has consequences for this life, but for the next.
From there Jesus goes on to talk about false prophets and how we need to be on the lookout for them. What they say has a certain appeal, but their lives just don’t measure up. Jesus asserts that when it comes to those who speak into our lives, we need to consider the fruit they bear, more than any flowered speech they might make.
Jesus doesn’t stop there. He goes on and challenges us to consider our own lives. We too need to consider the fruit we bear. If we seek to faithfully offer ourselves to Christ, we will bear the sort of fruit that befits those who are given over to him. We will also find ourselves joyfully walking through a narrow gate that promises abundant life now and eternal life later on.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our From the Mount series.
We will be talking about one of the great promises of our Lord regarding prayer. We will be studying Matthew 7:7-12 as we continue our study of the Sermon on the Mount.
Regarding prayer, all of us have struggled, thinking that answers are all too slow in coming. We have even wondered if God is hearing us. Into that mix, Christ encourages us by saying, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We need to stay at it when it comes to prayer, particularly during this time in which we find ourselves. Speaking in the imperative, Jesus wants us to ask and keep on asking. He wants us to seek and keep on seeking. He wants us to knock and keep on knocking. Jesus wants us to stay at our prayers. As we stay at our prayers our hearts will certainly be changed and we’ll find ourselves drawing closer to God’s will for our lives. We will also experience our prayers being answered in God’s time and in his way.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our From the Mount sermon series.
Christ’s words are just as current today as they ever have been. He speaks a challenging word to the whole of life, and he does so in his Sermon on the Mount. In that sermon Jesus goes from “preachin’ to meddlin’” when he says, “Judge not, lest you be judged.”
When it comes to judging others, we all do it. We realize, though, that there is a distinct difference between making assessments about people and judging hypocritically or self-righteously. Jesus knew full well that a judgmental spirit has a way of building walls, closing off conversations, and hurting relationships.
Presently, we are well-aware that our country is characterized by such a spirit. People are divided along socio-economic, racial, ethnic, and political lines. Such divisions leave us tearing one another apart. Even the church is in on the act. Salvos are launched between conservatives and liberals, one more critical than the other. Such disunity surely grieves our Lord.
In the end, we’d do well to deal with the “plank in our own eye” before we seek to deal with the “speck” in another’s eye. Jesus has little patience for those who see flaws in everyone else but fail to see the flaw in their own eyes. That’s why Jesus is so adamant about us dealing with our own failings, before we ever think about dealing with the failings of another.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "From the Mount."
This week we visit a familiar passage from Matthew 6:25-34; one that states, “Do not worry.” For some, those words only bring more anxiety because worry is a way of security; for others, they wonder why people do worry, because they feel as though they are in control--well, until they aren’t.
Jesus modeled a way of life for us to follow – one that was simple, devoted to others, and aimed for righteousness. Worry gets in the way of being disciples. After all, as Christians, we have the hope and assurance that we serve the King of Kings; his kingdom come. What do we have to worry about? Jesus says absolutely nothing. So how do we live life worry-free?
I hope we can discover together how to apply this beautiful goal to our lives so we can become more devoted disciples who are willing to risk it all to follow Christ.
Pastor Tom continues our series From the Mount.
In Christ’s great Sermon on the Mount he moves from a challenging discussion about how to fulfill the law to an even more challenging discussion about the life of piety. It’s interesting that at the conclusion of that discussion he launches into a discussion about money. Jesus was not at all shy about talking about such things. He knew that how we use what we have is very much an indication of where our heart is. In fact, nearly 15% of what Jesus talks about in gospels has to do with money and possessions.
Jesus doesn’t pull any punches. He succinctly states that instead of storing up treasures here on earth, we’d do well to store up treasure in heaven. Jesus is of the mind that it is much more important, in fact ultimately important, that we are rich toward God even at the expense of being rich as the world defines rich. That’s just the nature of God’s economy.
Jesus says, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” He knew that a divided heart gets us nowhere. He knew the futility of serving two masters. In fact, he went so far as to say, “You cannot serve both God and money.” All of this gives us a lot to think about in this hyper-materialistic world we live in.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series From the Mount.
Discipline is hard. Some of us need outside accountability, some of us can knock things out with checklists and reminders, while others of us struggle to do the basic everyday essentials to survive. As Christians, God calls us to righteousness, which may feel impossible when paired with our humanity and shortcomings. But he doesn’t leave us alone to do the work; we have the Holy Spirit to help us along.
When we do the right things for the right reason, we will receive the right reward; the Father’s reward. I can’t wait to dig into Matthew 6:1-18 with you on Sunday. I also unveil a brand new word – you don’t want to miss it!
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series From the Mount.
Jesus’ teachings were nothing short of revolutionary. They challenge everyone who hears them. That is particularly true when it comes to Christ’s teachings on the fulfillment of the law. Jesus knew it was not the letter of the law that was important, but the spirit of the law. He knew that relationship trumped religion and the inside was always more important than the outside.
The Apostle Paul was all about that as well. He writes in II Corinthians 3:6, “Christ has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” Paul knew that only Christ provides restored relationship with God. He is the one who puts us in the embrace of a new covenant where his perfection covers our imperfection every time.
Of all the laws Jesus talks about in Matthew 5:17-48, he sees their fulfillment in the challenge of love. Whether it is murder, adultery, divorce, integrity, or retribution, it is love that brings fulfillment to what is God’s design for our lives.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series From the Mount.
Coming to grips with who we are is an important part of life. In some regard, that’s a lifelong journey. “Who am I?” is a deep question that bears answering.
I am known in some circles as a United Methodist pastor, in others as Cheryl’s husband, and in still others as Brian and John’s dad. Hopefully, in all circles, I am known as a person deeply devoted to Christ. Knowing who we are and, even more importantly, whose we are, is an important issue for life. How is your identity defined?
Jesus was quick to talk about identity as he spoke From the Mount. Regarding those who sought to follow him he said, “You are the salt of the earth, the light of the world.” Those who are “the salt of the earth” are always ready to serve, always ready to make a witness, and always ready to reflect God’s good work in their lives. They are never flashy or boastful but seek to put Christ first. Those who are “the light of the world” shine with the light of Christ in an otherwise darkened world. That light “pierces the darkness” and has tremendous effect.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our sermon series "From the Mount."
We are indeed a blessed people. God is constantly at work to shower his blessings upon us. What is key to all of that is a heart ready to receive those blessings.
Jesus speaks to the tie between experiencing God’s blessings and the disposition of the heart in what are called the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes provide a profound introduction to the Sermon on the Mount. They give us a lot to think about, particularly when it comes to living a “well-built” life.
When we are humble before God and others, when we are full of grief over our sin, when we exude the right kind of meekness, when we hunger and thirst for the things of God, when we show mercy, when our hearts are pure, when we work for peace, when we endure the pangs of persecution for the sake of the gospel, then we are truly blessed. That’s just the way it is for those whose lives mirror the life of Christ.
The characteristics for those who align themselves with God’s Kingdom are just different than those espoused by the world, yet when we live them out, we are blessed to no end.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins begins our new series "From the Mount."
In the sermon on the mount, Jesus took the opportunity to teach his disciples and the crowd. What he offers is not a one day fix It’s a lifetime instruction playbook of how to be a disciple, God’s intended way. Jesus needed the people to know so they could later teach others. The playbook is opened with God’s grace that we accept through belief; it’s heard with faith that God is the giver of all things, and it’s lived out by action of the gifts God has given us to use for his works.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our sermon series "Overcomers."
Our circumstance has a way of profoundly affecting our lives. The recent COVID-19 Pandemic is testimony to that, if anything is. As with most things, how we deal with our circumstances makes all the difference in the world. Some let their circumstance get the best of them, while others are able to skate right on through them.
For some, dealing with challenging circumstances is a matter of meeting them head-on and moving past them. While that’s not necessarily a bad thing, if left to their own energy they are apt to wear out, if not give up. Depending upon God and his support is the better way to go.
Jesus talked about the sort of support God offers in reference to the Holy Spirit. In talking with his disciples before his death, Jesus promised that God would not leave them void. God’s intention was to send the Holy Spirit. In referencing the Spirit Jesus talked in terms of the Spirit being one who would walk alongside. The Spirit would come as a Counselor, Comforter, and a Helper.
Regarding our circumstances, particularly during this season in which we find ourselves, the promise of the Holy Spirit still stands. The Holy Spirit comes to lead us, sustain us, and help us along the way, regardless of our circumstances.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Overcomers."
The Covid-19 Pandemic has represented a lot of loss on a lot of fronts. We have had to give up rooting for our favorite team. We are no longer frequenting the movie theaters or the taking in plays or concerts. Graduating seniors are doing without their commencement ceremonies. There have been loss of way too many jobs. And, even more seriously, there has been loss of life.
Whenever there is loss, there is grief. In our grief we are left to process things and eventually emerge into new life. I have learned that people grieve in their own way and in their own time. We’d do well to be patient with one another as we grieve. We’d also do well to be there for one another when we do.
In the mix of our grief, Jesus comes with a resounding promise that resonates for this life and the next. He says, “Let not your hearts be troubled, believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14:1) This is a promise for today in all we face. In effect, Jesus is calling on us to “just believe” – believe that he has this, believe that he is seeing us through, and believe that in the end we will land in a better place.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our sermon series "Overcomers."
You have heard it said that “the night is always darkest right before the dawn.” That was certainly true for the disciples as they made their way across the Sea of Galilee in the middle of a furious storm. They feared for their lives. They had all but given up hope when Jesus made his way out to them walking on the water. At first, they thought he was a ghost, but his words, “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid,” turned things radically for them.
Peter immediately said, “If it is you, bid me to come to you.” You might say that Peter “stepped up and stepped out.” He climbed out of the boat and begin to walk on the water as well. As long as Peter kept his eyes on Jesus, he was above the storm. When he let the storm get to him though, he began to sink. He had become more focused on the storm than the one who was the calm in the storm. Who of us during this season of Covid-19 hasn’t had our attention more on the storm than upon our Savior who stands ready to sustain us through it?
The good news in all of this is that the second Peter began to sink Christ extended his hand Peter’s way and pulled him up. Christ’s hand is extended our way as well. Jesus comes to pull us from that sinking feeling that all might be lost and puts us at the very place we needed to have been all along, holding his loving hand extended our way.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Overcomers."
"Let love be genuine." Paul shared these words with the Roman Christians to help them understand they were to love others as God loves them – with a genuine love that is unconditional and non-judgmental. Do we love with a genuine love; a love that is inclusive, humble, compassionate; a love that reflects the mercy of God that he offers everyone? Or are we allowing differences to keep us from reflecting that love?
Normally looking past our egos to love others is challenging enough, but now we find ourselves in the midst of a pandemic, isolated from others. But most of us find ourselves isolated with those closest to us – our families. It’s clear we are supposed to reflect God’s love to others – but how often do we apply this truth to our families? Those we love the most have proven the hardest for us to show compassion, mercy, and grace to during these difficult days. But when we see our families (and everyone) as God sees them, we recognize we are all on the same playing field. We all need God’s grace, love, and mercy.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Overcomers."
God is the great provider. In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, I hope you are experiencing that. For my own life, I have found that God always provides—just enough, just in time. Scripturally, God’s provision was evident at the testing of Abraham when God provided the ram when Abraham thought he would be sacrificing his son, Isaac. God provided for the Children of Israel in sending manna while they were in the wilderness. God provided for Elijah and the poor widow of Zarephath. God also provides for you and me.
During a time when getting by is on everyone’s mind, we’d do well to keep our sights set on God’s provision. Trusting in God for our daily provision puts us at the very place he wants us to be. By trusting God in this way, our relationship with him will become strong and certainly more secure. God will provide and with his help we will get through this, and not just get through it but overcome. Scarcity will give way to provision, in fact, that is already happening. We just need the eyes of faith to see that.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our sermon series Overcomers.
Along the Sea of Galilee strong storms are a common occurrence. They can flair up with very little notice. When they strike the sea is churned and the waves are high. Those caught in the middle of one of those storms have every reason to fear for their lives.
That’s the way it was for the disciples as they traveled with Jesus from one side of the Sea of Galilee to the other. To make matters worse, they were traveling at night. As the “sea billows” rose, so did their panic. The telling contrast to all of that was Jesus sleeping peacefully in the back of the boat. Instead of following his lead and doing as he did, the disciples let their fears get the best of them. In their panic, the disciples awakened Jesus and sought his help. Immediately, he chided them for their lack of faith and then said, “Peace, be still.” We usually read that as a rebuke of the wind and the waves. It very well may have been a rebuke of the disciples. He very well may have been saying in so many words, “Okay guys, let’s simmer down; how about peace instead of panic?”
Of course, we know that upon Christ’s command the wind and the waves died down. Christ’s power over the storms of life was on full display. We’d do well to remember that in the midst of the storms we face, particularly as we face the uncertainties and challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Christ is present to see us through. He seeks to quell our panic and bring peace.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins concludes our series "According to Luke."
Here we are friends, on the other side of Easter. We have celebrated and rejoiced the resurrection of our Savior, so now what? What are we to do with “after Easter?” Jesus was clear with his disciples, “Go, proclaim what you have seen!” But before he set them forth, he offered them peace. As a matter of fact, the first words Jesus said to his disciples while they were all together in the upper room were, “Peace be with you.” Why? Why was peace so important that Jesus chose it to be his first words and offering?
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our sermon series "According to Luke."
This is a season of great celebration. The fact that Jesus is risen from the dead gives us all hope for this life and the next. The triumph of Christ over death gives us the power to triumph over whatever comes our way, even the Covid-19 virus. I think that when all of this started, we thought that certainly by Easter the coronavirus would have been a distant memory and we would have been able to go on. All of us longed for the day when we would gather to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord on Easter Sunday. We so looked forward to singing together the songs of Easter and hearing yet again the message of the grand good news that Christ is risen indeed. Alas, we will not be together this Sunday, save for the deep bonds of faith that hold us together.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "According to Luke" with a Good Friday meditation.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "According to Luke."
The day of Christ’s Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem was a great day of celebration. Loud “hosannas” were voiced. “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord” was the consistent refrain. As Jesus entered the city on the back of a donkey, he was making a statement about who he was. He was a king of a different sort. He came in peace to usher in a brand new Kingdom.
I have often wondered whether some of the people who shouted their “hosannas” early in the week were among those who shouted, “Crucify him, crucify him!” later in the week. That’s the way we can be sometimes, particularly when we get caught up in a crowd. We are susceptible to the prevailing winds of culture and are apt to go this way or that when it comes to standing strong with Christ.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "According to Luke."
Most of us like everything all nice, neat, and planned out. Surprises aren’t always easy. Adjustment takes a tremendous amount of energy. Having to shift gears can be pretty tough. Dropping back and punting isn’t as easy as it sounds. This happened to Simon of Cyrene, and it often happens to us.
Pastor Tom talks about how we can deal with change and the challenges it brings.
Pastor Tom continues our sermon series "According to Luke."
“Who am I?” is one of the fundamental questions of life. Our identities are tied up into so many things. This week we'll look at the issue of identity, both as it relates to Jesus Christ and to each of us.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "According to Luke" with a message based on the story of Peter's denial of Christ on the night of his arrest. Many of us can relate to this story, along with the story of his eventual forgiveness. Find out what we can learn from it.
Pastor Tom continues our series "According to Luke."
With the cross looming, Jesus took to praying. He wanted to pray. He needed to pray. His struggle was that real. While Jesus would have much rather had the “cup” of the cross pass, it was not to be. But his time of prayer in the Garden gave him the opportunity to set his sights on God.
Christ’s prayer, “not my will, but yours be done,” is a model for all praying. It comes to us in our prayers to let them lead us to a deeper consideration of God’s will. “Not my will, but yours be done,” is a prayer of deep faith that puts us in the warm embrace of God, and in that warm embrace we are able to make it through whatever it is we’re facing.
Of course, Jesus had his disciples with him there in the Garden. He asked them to pray as well. Instead of praying, though, they feel asleep. Jesus asked his disciples to pray not so much for his benefit, but theirs. He knew that they, too, would need the strength that only prayer offered.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our sermon series "According to Luke."
The Passover meal Jesus shared with his disciples in the Upper Room right before his death was an opportunity to share the meaning of what was about to happen to him. Jesus knew he would not be long for this world. The cross loomed large. That being the case, Jesus took bread, broke it, and said, “This is my body broken for you, do this in remembrance of me.” He also took the cup and said, “This is the blood of the new covenant shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins, do this also in remembrance of me.” Those present in the Upper Room were called on to remember and so are we.
Memory is an important thing indeed. Our memories help define who we are. That’s why when we share in Holy Communion, we remember what Christ did on our behalf. Our focus is on the cross and all it offers our lives. Jesus knew just how important it was to regularly remember such things. Holy Communion though is not just about remembering but experiencing. When we celebrate Holy Communion, we celebrate what Christ is doing in the here and now. We experience him deeply and find ourselves blessed.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series "Faith and..."
The hope of eternal life is the very bedrock of the Christian faith. God sent his Son so that we might have abundant life now and eternal life later on. That great passage from John 3:16 puts it well when it says, “For God so loved the world that whosoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”
If it were not for Jesus blazing the trail to eternal life through his resurrection from the dead, the Christian movement would have crumbled, and the church never formed. The Apostle Paul writes in I Corinthians 15:14, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” The Christian faith is built upon the hope and promise of Christ’s resurrection. Without it, what we believe is simply a house of cards.
Jesus himself said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” (John 11:25-26) In speaking this to Martha right before the raising of her brother Lazarus, Jesus challenged her by asking, “Do you believe?” That same question comes to you and me. Do you believe the promise of God that for those who so believe there is eternal life?
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Faith and..."
It serves as a summary of what’s to come in the Book of Romans. Some consider it a thesis statement for that great book. It was the very passage that revolutionized the life of the great reformer, Martin Luther. Romans 1:16-17 is a favorite of many.
Romans 1:16-17 talks about the power of God to bring salvation. The good news it speaks of is offered to all who with faith give their lives to God through Jesus Christ. It talks about a righteousness that is not our own, but something God alone offers, an offer made possible by Christ’s work on the cross. This is the gospel, the good news that is ours in Jesus.
About these things Paul was not ashamed. He was ready to proclaim them wherever, whenever, and however he could. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel,” he writes, “because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes; first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’” (Romans 1:16-17)
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Faith and..."
We have every reason to praise the Lord. In his great mercy he has seen fit to bring salvation to our souls. The salvation which God offers through Christ is transformative in every way. Old things pass away, while new things come to fruition.
Jesus talked about salvation in terms of new life. He said to Nicodemus in John 3:3, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the Kingdom of God without being born again.” Peter talked about salvation as “new birth into a living hope.” (I Peter 1:3) We are made new in Christ and the hope he lends fits us for this life and the next.
Though we do not see him, we love him and believe in him. All of this is the result of faith, which opens the door to the salvation God offers. That faith is of greater worth than gold. It connects us with God and keeps us strong in him, even when tough times prevail.
Pastor Tom continue our series "Faith and..."
The Psalmist put it rightly when he said, “the heavens declare the glory of God.” (Psalm 19:1) The majesty of God’s creative power is all around us. With eyes of faith, we are able to notice his handiwork both in the infinitely large and the infinitesimally small. We are even able to notice his handiwork in the great ways he is making us “new creations” in Christ.
This Sunday we’ll be talking about the relationship between Faith and Science. The two are not mutually exclusive. Some, though, figure the two should never mix. Others see one informing the other. For me, the more we learn from science gets us that much closer to God, the creator of all. Likewise, the deeper we plumb the depths of faith the more we will know the Master Designer and his desire to reach those he has created.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Faith and..."
We often think that we can rely on ourselves to get through life. But that only gets us so far. When we think we are strong we are not open to resources beyond ourselves and because of that come up empty every time. God is all about filling us with the sustenance necessary to get through this life.
The apostle Paul learned this and wrote “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (II Corinthians 12:9)
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series Faith and...
All of us have doubts. It is just a part of being human. So often, the doubts we experience are borne out of the hardship. Those hardships put us at a crossroads where we either grow in faith or become embittered. In the mix of that Christ stands to see us through to the other side. He is fast at work to bring us to a place of a deeper faith. It comes to us to cooperate with him in that.
We’ll be talking about such things this week as we study from James 1:2-8. We find there a word of encouragement about the hardships we face and the doubts that often follow. You must believe and not doubt,” writes James, “because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed about.” (James 1:6) Such double-mindedness doesn’t do any of us any good. That’s all the more reason to cling to Christ, especially when doubt comes our way.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Faith and..."
Throughout Scripture, there are stories about people having little faith in God. It’s not surprising that when a father approaches Jesus and asks him if he can heal his son because the disciples couldn’t, that Jesus becomes frustrated. When the disciples, after witnessing Jesus heal the boy, asked why they couldn’t heal him, Jesus responded that it was because of their little faith. Yet Jesus goes on to say that a little faith is all they needed in order to move the mountains. What does Jesus mean by this juxtaposition and what are the implications of his answer for our experience of faith today?
Have we witnessed God move mountains because of our faith? If not, how can we?
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our new sermon series "Faith and..."
We are called to live by faith and not by sight. That’s not always the easiest thing to do. While we believe that God is worthy of our trust, living as if that’s true is another thing entirely. Living by faith is often illusive. We would rather not give up control. Relationship with God, though, dictates that we do. We are called to put ourselves in the care and concern of our Lord and when we do, we’ll find that he will never let us down.
This Sunday we begin a new sermon series that will center on faith and how it applies to our everyday lives. This week we will be considering that great definition of faith from Hebrews 11:1 where it says, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Upon hearing that great definition of faith, we encourage one another to live by faith, day by day, moment by moment.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins concludes our sermon series "Christmas Outside the Box."
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and goodwill toward men!” Christmas has come and gone and we have celebrated the birth of Christ with lots of joy and meditation. So here we are now, preparing for the New Year, taking down our decorations, and contemplating what this good news means for us now and in the coming days.
The shepherds went with haste to seek the Savior and they glorified and praised him after they had seen him and told others the good news! Sharing is an essential part of being a Christian – but is there a one size fits all way to share? And what is it exactly that we are supposed to share?
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series Christmas Outside the Box.
Doing Christmas outside the box might not be the easiest thing to do. For good and for bad, we are tradition-bound when it comes to Christmas. We are really stretched when challenged to do things differently. That is particularly true when it comes to family. This may be the very year though when we make an intentional effort to connect with family in ways we never have before. That very well may mean taking the first step to that end.
We are called to family at Christmas. We come by that honestly. Much of the Christmas story revolves around family. Mary and Joseph are center stage when it comes to family. The relationship that Mary and Elizabeth had is also in the mix. We know from Luke 1:39-45 that Mary visited her relative, Elizabeth who was also pregnant. I am of the mind that Mary and Elizabeth needed one another.
Mary, upon hearing that Elizabeth was pregnant, wanted to find out what was going on with Elizabeth so she could better understand what was going on in her own life. Without a doubt, Mary benefited from Elizabeth’s encouragement.
Christmas is a time for song. The songs of the season uplift us to no end. They immediately take us back to Christmases past. They help us celebrate Christmas present. We come by all of this honestly. Songs are sung throughout the account of Christ’s birth. Luke alone has four songs listed in telling the story of Christ’s birth. Mary sings, Zechariah sings, the angels sing, and Simeon sings—all offering praise to God. Singing at Christmas or any other time during the year helps us express what we can’t otherwise. Singing is a wonderful way to worship God. It is good to offer our praises his way.
We look forward to celebrating the season with song this Sunday. In the midst of the singing, we will also be taking a close look at the song Mary sang in anticipation of Christ’s birth found in Luke 1:46-55.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series "Christmas Outside the Box."
Christmas is the time of year when we reconnect and spend time with family members and old friends. But are those the only relationships we should enrich this season? In Luke 6:27-36, Jesus challenges all of us to love in a way that we probably feel is impossible – but while this love may be hard and sacrificing, we must try, nonetheless.
As we prepare our hearts for Jesus this Advent season, we begin to understand that his love is meant to be shared – no matter how inconvenient, difficult, or impossible that may seem. This Sunday we dig into a familiar passage and talk about how we can do relationships outside the box this Advent season.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our sermon series "Christmas Outside the Box."
The season is quickly approaching, the season of Advent and Christmas. We look forward every year to hearing about the coming of our Savior. There is no season of the year quite like Christmas. While it is beautiful in every way, it is one of the most pressure-packed, stress-filled times of the year. It might be that this year we will want to think “outside of the box” when it comes to Christmas. And by so doing, we will certainly want to keep first things first.
It might be that doing things a bit differently will help enliven our experience of Christmas. Jesus was all about doing things differently. He all but proclaimed that when he stood to read at his hometown synagogue in Nazareth from the Prophet Isaiah. Upon reading Isaiah 61:1-2 Jesus took on the mantle of the coming Messiah. In fact, upon reading that great passage, he said about himself, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”
Isaiah 61:1-2 talks about proclaiming good news to the poor, offering freedom for the prisoners, recovery of sight for the blind, and setting the oppressed free. We’d do well to consider these things this Christmas. In a world desperate to hear good news, we not only have it, but need to share it.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes the series "Our Grateful Response."
‘Tis the season to give thanks. Here in this country we set aside the fourth Thursday of November as Thanksgiving Day. From the Pilgrims to George Washington to Abraham Lincoln, there has been an innate recognition of God’s good work and a desire to give thanks on the part of God’s people. Today, Thanksgiving is as much as anything a matter of turkey and dressing, professional football, and families getting together. It is all too easy to lose sight of why Thanksgiving Day is so special.
I have always found Thanksgiving Day to be a great time to take inventory of the things for which I am thankful. At the top of the list is the presence of God at work in my life. Next comes family for whom I have a deep love. I also give thanks for the ministry of the church. I am indeed thankful for the ministry of Saint John. I am thankful for our country. I am thankful for God’s good work in the life of the world. These things only begin to scratch the surface of my thankfulness.
If you and I can give thanks one day a year, why can’t we do that the other 364? The answer might lie in Jesus’ encounter with the ten lepers, where only one of the ten returned to offer thanks.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Our Grateful Response."
We have been asked to pray the past couple of weeks a prayer that King David prayed as he and the people gave generously to the building of the temple in Jerusalem. That prayer is found in I Chronicles 29:10-13. In it, David was quick to extol the “greatness and power” of the Lord. He was also quick to recognize that all that is, is on account of God. “Everything in heaven and earth is yours,” he prayed. “Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things.” David was also quick to offer his thanks God’s way.
As we have prayed that prayer and others like it, we are awakened to how great God is and are led to look for ways to respond. A Grateful Response is always pleasing to God. As we prepare to make Our Grateful Response by making a pledge to help underwrite the ministry of Saint John Church, let’s do so with thankful and generous hearts, all the while looking forward with faith to the great things God will do in our midst in the coming year.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our sermon series "Our Grateful Response."
Living generously is a mark of a true disciple. We come by that honestly. Jesus gave and gave and gave again. He offered himself, even to the point of dying on the cross, so that we might benefit. Because Christ gave, we find ourselves in a much better place to give as well.
Living generously reflects God’s good work in our lives. God blesses us immensely. He meets our every need. God always provides. As we experience that, we can do no other but return praise and thanksgiving his way. We seek to offer him a Grateful Response. Offering him our time, talent, and treasure is a great way to offer him praise. Offering him our very lives is as well. In the end that’s exactly what he wants us to do.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins begins our sermon series "Our Grateful Response."
What does it mean to live steadfastly? It may feel like you are already doing that by facing each day and surviving the deadlines, errands, and all that life unexpectedly brings. Hebrews 12:-3 compares life as a disciple to running a race – a marathon that requires endurance and persistence.
This week we begin Our Grateful Response series and we look to Jesus for how to live life steadfastly.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series "Life Songs."
All of us have a need to be known and God is always ready to oblige. Jesus himself states that even “the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” (Luke 12:7) God knows us through and through. He is aware of the currents of our hearts and is ready to meet us right where we are. The God of all creation, the very One who has created every person, bends our way and seeks to involve himself in our lives.
Psalm 139 expresses a word about God’s involvement both eloquently and profoundly. “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.” (Psalm 139:1-3)
Sometimes in our most vulnerable moments we wonder if we even matter to God, particularly when we consider the vastness of God’s creation. The fact of the matter is that we do matter. God loves us dearly and desires to be in relationship with us. The fact that God sent his Son into the life of the world settles it. I am thankful we have One who cares enough to take initiative like that so we might be together. I am doubly thankful that God is constantly searching us out.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our sermon series "Life Songs."
Those who are touched by God can’t help but worship him. God has so transformed their lives that they can’t help but express themselves. They long for God and worship gives them the opportunity to connect. I hope we are counted among the number of those who long for that kind of connection.
Worship is not so much about us, but God and his wonderful presence in our lives. It is an opportunity to celebrate that presence and be drawn more closely to him. When the Psalmist writes in Psalm 100 about “shouting for joy” and “worshiping the Lord with gladness,” we are given good instruction about how to worship. We learn not only about ourselves, but God. “The Lord is God” says the Psalmist. He is the One we worship. “We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.” We are the ones who worship. Psalm 122:1 expresses it well: “I was glad when they said, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’”
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series Life Songs.
There are many quotes about time that try to put life into perspective so that people will live to the fullest! But what does this really mean for Christians? Psalm 90 shows us a glimpse of time in God’s perspective, which may prove to be difficult to comprehend. So, how do we reconcile this concept of God’s time and our time? To take that a step further, should we? How do we live in this tension?
Please join us as we dig into the tension of God’s mystery and the truth of life.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Life Songs."
You’ve heard it said that what’s done in secret has a way of coming to light. That’s another way of saying that our sin has a way of catching up with us. Try as we might, we can’t escape the consequences of what we’ve done. The light of God has a way of exposing the darkness of our lives. God doesn’t just leave us there, but seeks to make things whole. His every desire is to offer mercy and the forgiveness that comes along with that.
We see that sort of thing no more clearly than in what David writes in Psalm 51. David, with contrite heart, seeks the mercy of God. He realizes that in the end he had sinned against God and the only remedy for that was God’s forgiveness. David came on bended knee. He laid himself prostrate before the Lord and poured out his heart. David knew he had to get things right with God before he could ever begin to make get things right with others. David had lived with the guilt of his wrongdoing for far too long. He had gotten to such a desperate place that he could do no other but turn to God.
We read in Psalm 51 the deep lament of one who was truly sorry. That contrition helped David confront what he had done and paved the way for God to heal his heart.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our sermon series "Life Songs."
The 23rd Psalm is one of the most beloved scriptures in all the Bible. It is familiar to almost anyone who has studied the scripture and even to some who haven’t. The 23rd Psalm is often recited, if not wholly memorized. It strikes a chord that touches us to the very depth of our souls. It addresses the deep need we have for God and how God seeks to oblige that need with his undying love.
A recognition of God as shepherd puts us to thinking about the One who is the true guide of our lives. Recognizing ourselves as his sheep puts us to considering just how much we need him. We can all be thankful that “the Lord is our Shepherd” and in him “we shall not want.” He seeks to meet our every need. It comes to us to follow him in that.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our sermon series "Life Songs."
This week, we are diving into Psalm 19, and in the first verse it begins with, “The heavens are telling the glory of God…” For most of us, that may be difficult to wrap our heads around, but Psalm 19 emphasizes how all of creation declares the glory of God. So what does that mean for us; where do we fit in as part of creation?
Psalm 19 is a beautiful testimony and song of God’s glory that urges us to take part in declaring all that God is and will forever be.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our sermon series "Life Songs" based on the Book of Psalms. The Psalms have a way of engaging us. They have a way of touching us right where we live. They help us express what we are feeling. They have a way of stirring heart and mind.
We start this Sunday right at the beginning with Psalm 1. Psalm 1 offers two images that contrast “the two ways” we can live our lives. The first is that of a tree planted by streams of water. It is well-rooted. And because of its proximity to water is well-sustained. This is the way of those who seek to follow the God’s way. The second of the images is that of chaff blown in the wind. The chaff was regularly separated from the grain by tossing it into the wind and letting it fly off. Quite often it was gathered and burned. This is the way of those who fail to seek God’s way for their lives. They are left tossed about not only by the prevailing winds of the day, but their own inclinations.
On Homecoming Sunday, Missionary Will Partin preaches a stand-alone message, "Shema: Listen and Obey." Will shares what it means to truly love the Lord. He is a living testimony to the fruit that can be born for the Kingdom if we will only “listen and obey.”
Pastor Tom Grieb preaches a stand-alone message, "Plenty to Eat."
There is one miracle that is recorded in all four gospels. It is a miracle about God’s great provision. The Feeding of the 5,000 is a story that encourages us all about God’s sufficiency. Having spent a full day of teaching the masses, Jesus is concerned that the people hadn’t eaten. The disciples were content to send the people away to fend for themselves. Jesus wanted to meet their needs then and now. “Five loaves and two fish” were presented to Jesus, representative of the food that was available. Jesus took that meager offering, multiplied it, and fed the multitude. The adage, “a little is a lot in the hands of Jesus” rings true.
Not only did everyone eat to the full, but there was plenty left over. In fact, there were twelve baskets filled with leftovers, speaking directly to the twelve disciples about their lack of faith.
The message is this: Jesus wants to provide for all our needs—spiritual and otherwise. He wanted to get that point across to the 5,000. He wanted to make that point with his disciples. He wants to make that point with you and me.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series “Making a Difference.”
In our church’s Vision Statement, we sayabout ourselves that we will be a people who will “make a difference by following Christ, offering hope, serving others, and loving everyone.” This week we concern ourselves with what it means to “love everyone,” taking a close look at the Great Commandment from Matthew 22:34-40, which calls on us to “love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength” and “to love our neighbors as we love ourselves.”
For Christ, love for God leads to love for neighbor. One follows the other. In Christ’s mind, the proving ground of our love for God is meted out as we offer love to other people. In an often mean-spirited and divisive world so in need of love, it comes to us, with Christ’s help, to love those around us. It comes to us to receive God’s love and then share the same with others. I John 4:19 puts it well, “We love because God first loved us.” As we allow God’s love to become more a part of our lives we are empowered, if not enabled, to love as he wants us to, thereby making the Great Commandment possible in our lives.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our sermon series "Making a Difference."
There is much mystery about God – and as Christians, we love and appreciate that mystery honoring the truth that God is God and we are not. But when it comes to serving others, God is very clear. The Son of Man, Jesus Christ, paints a very transparent picture of what the expectation is of service in his last teaching before his death. Matthew 25:31-40 delivers a hard, yet essential truth.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our sermon series "Making a Difference."
It seems as though hope is in short supply these days with all the depressing news that floods us on a daily basis. It’s easy to become despondent over it all. The press of our daily lives can leave us dry and parched. We are left to ask, “Where’s the hope?” And even as we ask that question, we know our hope is in Christ. Christ is our hope for this life and the next. The fact that Christ is in us helps us face things with the assurance that he is with us and fast at work to bring about his good purposes.
The Apostle Paul talks about the divine mystery that is “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” The hope that is ours in Christ helps us see beyond our present circumstance to a brighter day. That same hope is offered not only to us, but to others as well. It comes to us to offer that hope, the same hope that emboldens us.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our sermon series "Making a Difference."
Having a vision sets us in the direction we need to be going. When it comes to the church, vision has everything to do with God’s leadership. For the church, a vision statement is a short, memorable, challenging statement that unfolds God’s preferred future. That vision statement then draws the church toward that preferred future.
Since the beginning of the year, the Administrative Council has sought God’s direction regarding a vision statement for our church. In the end, we have said we will be a church that is “making a difference by following Christ, offering hope, serving others, and loving everyone.” This month we look forward to reflecting on that statement during worship.
In Christ’s call of his first disciples as recorded in Matthew 4:18-22, he says to Peter and Andrew, “Come, follow me.” His is an invitation not just to Peter and Andrew, but to you and me as well. It is also an invitation to the church.
Pastor Tom concludes our series "Champions of the Church."
Paul was the sort of fellow who didn’t cut corners when it came to sharing the good news about Jesus. He was willing to invest in people, knowing that by building relationships we are better able to gain a person’s attention when it comes to the gospel. Paul wouldn’t let simple inconvenience deter him. He would scale whatever challenge so he could share the gospel.
Paul is one of those inspirational characters in the Bible who challenges us to no end. Paul has been called by many “the greatest evangelist the world has ever known.” We would do well to be more like him in that regard.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Champions of the Church."
Priscilla and Aquila were true servants of Christ and his Church. They were willing to do whatever it took to see that the Kingdom was furthered. They often served behind the scenes and were content not to be the center of attention. God, though, was a part of what they did and blessed it. They were tentmakers by trade but were always about ministry. The important thing here for us is that God uses people like you and me to make sure his purposes are done.
Apollos was a commanding personality. He had a heart for the Lord, but as the scripture record, he only knew the baptism of John. Priscilla and Aquila filled in the blanks for Apollos and offered a full account of salvation in Jesus Christ. As commanding as Apollos was, he undoubtedly possessed a humility that allow him to submit to the teaching of Priscilla and Aquila. He realized he didn’t have it all figured out and he went on to reap a great harvest for the Kingdom. The important thing for us here is that humility goes a long way toward us growing in a full knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Champions of the Church."
There is no doubt that the Apostle Paul took Timothy under his wing. Paul was quick to recognize his heart. He was well-assured of Timothy’s every desire to serve the Lord. Having grown up under the loving influence of a faithful mother and grandmother, Timothy was ripe for the role of leadership he would play in the early New Testament church. At the outset of his Second Missionary Journey, Paul had Timothy come along. Along the way, Paul would install Timothy as the leader of the church in Ephesus. Even though Timothy was young, Paul saw in him the potential to do great things for the Kingdom.
We can learn from Paul’s investment in Timothy’s life. Paul was intentionally present to meet Timothy where he was spiritually and help him grow. He gave him opportunities to learn. He gave him opportunities to lead. Above all things, Paul encourage him to be “prepared in and out of season” to share the gospel. In this regard, Paul took his que from Jesus. In effect, Paul did discipleship just as Jesus did it. Paul invited Timothy into his life, just as Jesus invited the twelve disciples into his. Paul and Timothy did life together and a true disciple of Christ was born. We are challenged to do the same. We are challenged to consider those persons around us with whom we might come alongside and encourage in the faith.
Jesus commissions us to “go into all the world and make disciples.” This is our lot as Christians. There is no plan B.
Pastor Ashlee Adkins continues our series, "Champions of the Church."
Scripture doesn’t tell us much about Cornelius, but what we do know is vital to early church history and the spread of Christianity. Cornelius was a God-fearing, faithful man but he was also a Gentile and a Roman soldier. Thankfully, God favored Cornelius and his care for those less fortunate and so he called Cornelius to an even deeper faith by having him seek Simon Peter, one of the twelve disciples, to speak to his household. And as a result, not only was Cornelius baptized but so was his household.
Cornelius’ story challenges all of us. Have we allowed our faith to be out loud and transformational? Have we lived with the type of faith that speaks when no one else will and acts when no one else wants to? We’ll be talking about Cornelius’s faith and the obstacles the Holy Spirit assisted in overcoming that allowed him to pave the road that welcomed Gentiles to Christianity and changed the history of the church.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Champions of the Church."
Saul was known far and wide by the early New Testament church, but for all the wrong reasons. By his own admission in Philippians 3:6, he was a zealous persecutor of the church. That all changed on the Damascus Road in dramatic fashion. Jesus took hold of Saul’s life and never let go. Saul would never be the same again. Instead of persecuting the church, Saul would become its greatest evangelist.
Saul was not only blinded by a bright light from heaven but heard the voice of Christ speaking to him. “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” has rung through the ages. Saul’s life was turned around that day. His was a true conversion, if there ever was one. His heart was changed and his life transformed. What Jesus did for Saul is no less available to you and me. What Christ did on the cross offers light to our lives. The guilt of our sin no longer weighs us down. We are freed from its bond and empowered to live as God wants us to. Our lives are changed as we are converted from one life to another much more glorious than the first.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Champions of the Church."
Stephen is one of the great heroes of the church. He is best known as the first martyr of the church. In this regard and in so many others Stephen is a real Champion of the Church. He was one of seven tapped by the Apostles to oversee the distribution of food for widows in the church, but that wasn’t the limit of his contribution. Stephen was, as the scripture reports, “a man full of God’s grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people.” Stephen was always ready to make a defense of the gospel when the opportunity presented itself. Eventually, Stephen was brought before the Sanhedrin on charges of blasphemy, which he did an eloquent job refuting. The Sanhedrin didn’t take kindly to what he had to say and conspired to have him stoned. Stephen was willing to give his all for the sake of Christ and paid the ultimate price by giving his life for the Kingdom. He exhibited a Christ-like Spirit throughout. I think of the countless people around the world who are presently being persecuted and, in some instances, being killed for the faith. They too are willing to give their all for the sake of Christ. We are left to consider what that means for us. How are you giving your all for the sake of Christ and his Kingdom?
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Champions of the Church."
Gamaliel was a highly respected rabbi of his day. He was an uncommon Pharisee. While he was bent on keeping the law to the last detail, the most important thing for Gamaliel was making sure God’s will was done. Gamaliel didn’t want to do anything that would stand in the way of God’s will. Gamaliel was rightly convinced that all things were in the hands of God and there was nothing anyone could do to ultimately stop that. Gamaliel was also an unexpected ally of the early Christian church. He stood before the Sanhedrin, not so much to defend the Apostles, but the will of God. Threatening to put the Apostles to death, Gamaliel called on the Sanhedrin to slow down and take a broader view that included the possibility of God working through those that were now preaching about salvation through Jesus Christ. “Leave these men alone!” he said. “Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you may even find yourselves fighting against God.” Acts 5:38-39 The Apostles were freed that day, largely due to the courage, faith, and wisdom of one of the unexpected Champions of the Church, Gamaliel.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our series, "Champions of the Church."
This Sunday is Pentecost Sunday. For the Christian Church it is the day we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit in a mighty way. That account is vividly recorded in Acts 2. Those told to wait for “power from on high” after Christ’s resurrection received the Holy Spirit in overwhelming fashion and the world has never been the same since. Some have even said that the church was born that day. Regardless, God acted in a powerful way. The Holy Spirit rested on the entire body gathered that day. Corporately, everyone was profoundly affected. When God’s Spirit is recognized by a church, great things take place. Individually, people were touched as demonstrated by “tongues of fire resting on each one of them.” Those gathered were not just touched corporately, but individually. God did a wonderful work in the life of every individual. God’s work didn’t stop there, though. His scope was as broad as the entire world for all time. People “began to speak in other languages that were not their own” to make the broad statement that the gospel was intended for the entire world. In a word, the power of the Holy Spirit made a profound difference that Pentecost following Christ’s death and resurrection, and still does today—individually, corporately, and globally.
Ravi Zacharias once said, "Starting well is a momentary thing; finishing well is a lifelong thing.” Whatever season of life you may find yourselves in, Christ calls us all to persevere and finish well.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series, "Family Matters."
In a very real way, life is a matter of building a legacy. We are keenly aware of that as we approach Memorial Day. We can build our legacy for the good or the not so good. It’s a matter of choice. There is no legacy that is as far-reaching as a legacy of faithfulness to God. It pays dividends not only for this life, but the next. I had a friend one day say, “You never know where your influence will stop.” While our influence might reach far and wide, we can certainly affirm its effect at home. The way we live our lives has great influence upon those we love the most. In that regard, I am mindful of the faithful influence of Timothy’s mother and grandmother as recorded in II Timothy 1:5. The influence of Lois, his grandmother, and Eunice, his mothe,r helped to bring about a living faith in the life of young Timothy. Their willingness to lean into Timothy helped to form and fashion him. That legacy of love was not lost on Paul as he writes II Timothy. Ours should be a legacy of love as well, particularly in family. We do well to shine with the light of Christ every opportunity we have.
Pastor John Choi continues our series, "Family Matters."
God created the family to be the chief method of passing down His teachings and commands from generation to generation. It is not only our job as parents to ensure this, but for all of us who are coaches, educators and mentors as well. Let’s chase after God’s heart this Sunday as we seek to understand why the family matters to God!
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our series, "Family Matters."
For a long time now, I have been convinced that God has a way of working out his purposes in and through family. God puts us in family so that his love has a way of being made known. He puts us in family so we are able to be nurtured and supported. Family is the essential building block of God’s Kingdom and it behooves us all to do everything we can to make sure our families are as strong as they can possibly be. Family matters.
In this message, we consider one of the great stories of the Old Testament. It is a story of love and devotion. It is a story of hope and redemption. It is a story of God’s good purposes for our lives. In the end, it is a story about the unlimited things that are possible when we hang with family. The story of Ruth is one for the ages.
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series, "Famous Last Words."
The resurrection of Christ brings hope and healing to a world that so desperately needs it. The resurrection of Jesus is good news indeed. Before the news of Christ’s resurrection had time to take hold the disciples hid themselves away, fearing for their lives. Thomas was not among them. He had distanced himself from the rest of the disciples, if for no other reason than to deal with his grief by himself. Everyone deals with grief in their own way. Thomas has long been called “Doubting Thomas” and for good reason. He was a “I’ll believe it when I see it” kind of guy. He got his chance. Jesus appeared and gave Thomas the opportunity to place his hands where the nails had been driven and where the spear had pierced his side. “My Lord and My God” was Thomas’ response. Instead of doubting, Thomas now believed. In the mix of that Jesus also had a word for us who are so empirical. He says, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.” Ours is by faith and not by sight. By faith, we are awakened to all sorts of things we wouldn’t otherwise experience, including the grand good news of Christ’s resurrection.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Famous Last Words."
It has been voiced for centuries, “Christ is risen! Christ is risen indeed! It is the essential affirmation of our faith. The whole of Christianity turns on the fact of Christ’s resurrection. Without it, we are left searching for answers about this life and the next. Because Christ is risen, everything he ever said and everything he ever did is stamped as true. The resurrection seals it all. The Apostle Paul writes in I Corinthians 15:17, “If Christ has not been raised, then our faith is futile.” As we have come to experience, Christ’s resurrection brings strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. We have every reason to be faithful.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Famous Last Words."
The last “last word” of Christ from the cross is one of total surrender to God. In life AND death, Jesus was fully given over to God and God’s purposes for his life. In the end, Jesus did not let the anguish of the cross interrupt his relationship with his Heavenly Father. Christ’s every desire was to place himself in the hands of God. In that Jesus knew that God’s divine purposes for him would prevail. You and I would do well to live with the same sort of surrender. In the sometimes agonizing struggles of life, we do well to place ourselves in God’s hands. Trusting God to see us through will not only help us make it through whatever we face but will help us emerge triumphant. We will be talking about such things this Sunday as we gather for worship.
Pastor John Choi continues our series, "Famous Last Words."
“One of the most powerful words that Jesus declared before dying on the cross was, “It is finished.” Find out exactly what “it” was, and live the way Christ paid with his life for you to live!"
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Famous Last Words."
Christ’s fifth word uttered from the cross is just one word in Greek. In English it’s three. “I am thirsty.” The spotlight is not only on Christ’s suffering, which was intense, but on Christ’s humanity. The fact that Christ was fully human serves to highlight just how intense his suffering really was. In the mix of that Jesus cried out for something to drink. Just as you and I get thirsty, Jesus did as well. In this case Christ’s thirst was borne out of a tremendously excruciating circumstance. In effect, Christ’s call for something to drink reinforces the fact that we have someone who identifies with us. In effect, Jesus knows how we feel. His is not just sympathy, but empathy. The great thing about Jesus though is that he not only empathizes with us but seeks to meet our every need. He’s the One who said, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me, and let the one who believes in me drink. As the scripture has said, ‘Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.’” (John 7:38)
Pastor John Choi continues our series, "Famous Last Words."
Christ’s anguish on the cross cannot be overstated. It was real in every way. Christ not only suffered physically but did so spiritually as well. After all, he took on the sins of the world. In the mix of that we find Jesus uttering these famous last words, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” This fourth word spoken from the cross is offered directly to God. It is an intimate plea on the part of Christ asking God to help him make sense of the seeming desolation he was experiencing in his most desperate hour. “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” is a direct quote from Psalm 22:1 where David expressed his heart in the mix of the vicious and prolonged attacks of his enemies. Most of those who heard Jesus quote that verse would have been well-aware of the rest of that Psalm. As Psalm 22 plays out a hopeful word emerges, “You who fear the Lord, praise him! All you descendants of Jacob, honor him! Revere him, all you descendants of Israel! For he has not despised or disdained the suffering of the afflicted one; he has not hidden his face from him but has listened to his cry for help.” (Psalm 22:24) Regarding Christ, God would have the last word and that word was one of hope. Sins would be forgiven, eternal life would be offered, and on this side of the cross and Christ’s resurrection we can do no other but praise him.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Famous Last Words."
The so-called third word of Christ spoken from the cross is a word to both his mother, Mary, and his beloved disciple, John. The word he speaks is a word of support. Jesus essentially asks John to look out for his mom. Christ wants to make sure her needs are well taken care of. As the scripture reports, John was more than willing to oblige.
While Christ’s third word from the cross is his most intimate, it is a word for each of us. It is a word that also calls on us to care for one another. Not only are we to care for those closest to us, but those who reach beyond that circle, particularly those who are unable to care for themselves.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series, "Famous Last Words."
This week we consider the world as it is. We find ourselves yet again at Golgotha. Jesus is being crucified between two common thieves. One hard-heartedly joins in with the crowd hurling his taunts to the One who is being crucified next to him. The criminal to the other side of Jesus comes to his support. This man’s heart is humble and ready to receive. He even asks Jesus to “remember him when he comes into his Kingdom.” What follows is the promise of eternal life.
We see on Golgotha a microcosm of the world. On one side of Christ we see those who are hard-hearted and can do no other but offer their derisions his way. On the other side are those who with humble hearts are ready to receive the hope and promise of eternity. We see not only the world at Golgotha, but ourselves. We’ll be talking about such things this week as we gather for worship. We’ll be studying from Luke 23:39-43 where we find Jesus saying, “Today, you will be with me in paradise.”
Pastor Tom Grieb concludes our series, "Core Values."
This week we consider what it means to be Family-Focused. In this regard we are saying about ourselves that “we desire to come alongside families both at home and at church in supporting, nurturing, and encouraging growth in Christ.” We understand that the church complements what goes on at home regarding the spiritual nurture of all concerned, particularly our children.
Saint John has always stood alongside our families to help nurture our children and youth. We recognize we are in a partnership of sorts. Teaching our children well is a high calling both for parents and the church. We’d do well to recognize that and do everything in our power to live that out—at church and at home.
Pastor John Choi continues our series "Core Values."
In the Bible we see that those who were often viewed with contempt were those whom Jesus told his followers to care for and value. Who is Jesus asking you to care for and value today? Find out more this Sunday as we continue with our series on Core Values and focus in on being mission-minded.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Core Values."
We continue our present sermon series on Core Values. We will be talking this Sunday about being community-oriented. In that regard we’re asserting that “we seek to be in fellowship with one another and involved in the community around us, all in the name of Jesus.” We do community together as a part of church, so we can be community in the life of the world. Building community at church is important, but only to the extent that we find ourselves building community in the world. In talking about being community-oriented we will be studying from Romans 12:9-21. There we find the Apostle Paul offering some “rubber meeting the road” ideals designed to help us live as a part of the church community and the community at large. Let me encourage you to read through this important passage and consider what God may be speaking into your life. And in doing that consider what you need to do about.
Pastor John Choi continues our series "Core Values."
Salvation found in the death and resurrection of Christ cost us nothing, but did you know that following Christ as his disciples will cost you everything? Join us this Sunday as we continue our series on Core Values, and find out what we really should be about.
Pastor Tom Grieb continues our series "Core Values."
Setting one’s core values is an important exercise. Doing so, helps to ground us in who we are and, better put, who God is making us to be. As a church, we are in the thick of considering those core values that help define who we are as a community of faith. Living out those characteristics that reflect God’s good work in our common life together will help us be all the more effective in our community and beyond.
To be Biblically-based is a recognition of the authority of scripture, as well as the foundation it provides for life. It is a recognition as Paul writes in II Timothy 3:16-17 that “all scripture is “God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” God’s breathes life into his Word, just as he breathed life into humankind at creation. God’s Spirit brings life into scripture and you and I would do well to live into that as we view God’s Word as both authoritative and foundational for life.
Pastor Tom Grieb begins our series "Core Values.'
Core Values are those fundamental beliefs a person or an organization has. They are guiding principles that dictate behavior and help determine if a person or an organization is on the right path. As we move forward, we will need to be well-grounded in who God is calling us to be.
As a matter of Core Value, we claim to be Christ-centered and have a deep desire to follow Christ’s leadership and do as he did. Having arrived at Saint John last June I quickly noticed a deep love for Christ among those who make up this church. Your desire is to be centered in Christ and to follow his lead. We’ll be talking about Jesus and what it means to be centered in him. Hopefully, we will affirm what we already know to be true that we are a people centered on Christ seeking to follow his lead and do as he did.
We have said most recently that a great blueprint for how to do church is contained in the description of the Early New Testament as recorded in Act 2:42-47. That church was characterized by a devotion to right teaching, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread as lived out around the Lord’s Table, and to prayer. These things became the pillars upon which the church was built. These things made up the DNA, if you will, of the early church. Underlying those things was a rhythm that was lived out regularly by those who were a part of that Early New Testament church. They lived out their faith in groups that were both large and small. Acts 2:46 states that “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” They did life together along a continuum that included both the temple and home, the organized and organic, the gathered and scattered, and the structured and organic.
We continue this week considering the way the Early New Testament Church went about its business. As we talked last week about fellowship and the breaking of bread, particularly around the Lord’s Table, we saw that both were fundamental to what the church was about. Also fundamental to the church were the apostles’ teaching and prayer. Right teaching was a hallmark of the early church and the apostles led the way. Today such teaching is done against the backdrop of Holy Scripture. God’s Word has a way of speaking into our lives offering comfort, strength, and direction. All teaching should be well-seasoned with scripture. In fact, all that’s taught should have scripture as its base. Not only was right teaching a hallmark of the early church, but so was prayer. Those who were a part of the early church prayed as if the very mission depended upon their prayers. Their mission was so broad that it would be accomplished only by God’s leadership. Their prayers kept them in touch with that leadership. The same is true for us. We will only be as vital as our prayer life.
We are continually facing how best to do the Lord’s work individually and corporately. When it comes to the church there are all sorts of books, podcasts, and e-mails that attempt to weigh. Sometimes it seems like we are always chasing the next big thing. When it comes to how best to do the Lord’s work through the church there is no better place to go than the Bible, and in that regard the great description of the Early New Testament Church in Acts 2 :42 and following. For the next couple of weeks, we will be acquainting ourselves with that model for the church and seek to apply it to what we’re about at St John. Pointedly this week, we will be look closely at the sort of fellowship the early church enjoyed and what went on when they broke bread together, particularly when they came together to celebrate the Lord’s Supper.