The Hope Valley Podcast: Recent Episodes
Hope Valley Church
Catch up on Sunday morning lessons and other conversations around issues, topics, and challenges we face in life, our families, and our communities - through the lens of the teachings of scripture.
Find out more about Hope Valley at www.hopevalley.church
In our first lesson, we looked at how gratitude comes from valuing what we already have (contentment), rather than receiving what we want (satisfaction). In this lesson, we will see how gratitude is characterized by joy, and how joy differs from mere happiness. When you appreciate the value of what God has given you, you possess a gratitude that produces a well of joy that you can draw from even in the unhappiest circumstances.Connect with us at www.hopevalley.church
We must learn to change our focus from getting what we want to valuing what we already have. By learning to value what God has already given us, we learn “the secret of being content” and are able to flourish in any circumstance.Connect with us at hopevalley.church
In the final part of our verse-by-verse study through the book of Acts, we conclude by focusing on the challenge to do the work of the Gospel. In order to know Jesus, we have to receive Him as He is and be about the work He has given us.
In part 63 of our study through the book of Acts, we read through Paul's perilous journey to Rome while in Roman custody - and we see how anchoring ourself to a single, clear promise of God can be all we need to move forward and experience God's blessings in our lives.
In part 62 of our study through the book of Acts, we cover chapters 25 & 26 to discuss Paul's decision to appeal to Caesar. Often seen as impulsive or misguided, Paul was nevertheless taking the door that was open to go where God was sending him - even though it was the harder door to take. Should we wait for easier doors? Does the easier door always lead to a better roads? In this lesson we will explore those questions.
In part 61 of our study through the book of Acts, we read Acts 24 and focus on the reaction that Roman Governor Felix has to Paul sharing the ethical implications of the Gospel. He seemed interested in the potential blessings of Christ, but not in the idea of being accountable to Him.
In part 60 of our study through the book of Acts, we explore a series of events where God opened doors for Paul at just the right time and reflect on the fact that Paul had to continue moving forward without knowing what doors would open and when.
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In part 59 of our study through the book of Acts, we see how the hard hearts of the unbelieving Jews in Jerusalem, including their hard hearts towards the Gentiles, led to them missing out on God's promises and blessings.Website: https://www.hopevalley.church/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sqInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopevalley.church/
In part 58 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at a situation Paul faced when returning to Jerusalem from his third missionary journey, and how his freedom in Christ allowed him to conform to the boundaries of others in order to pursue the higher obligation of love and unity.
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In part 57 of our study through the book of Acts, we begin chapter 21 and look at a time when multiple people were hearing God say the same thing, but came to different conclusions and disagreed about what they should do, and we'll explore how to handle those same situations in our own lives. -------- Website: https://www.hopevalley.church/ -------- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sq -------- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopevalley.church/
In part 56 of our study through the book of Acts, we take a third and final pass through Paul's final message to the Ephesian Elders and look at a third key instruction he gives: we must protect the church community, even from ourselves.
In part 55 of our study through the book of Acts, we take a second pass through Paul's farewell address to the Ephesian elders, and focus on a second key point, which is the importance of sharing the truth of God with others.
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In part 54 of our study through the book of Acts, we take a first of three passes through Paul's final instruction to the elders of the church in Ephesus. Each week we will look at a different key point in Paul's message, and in this lesson we will explore the way he exhorted the elders to live in a way that blessed others and advanced God's Kingdom.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 53 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the riot that takes place in Ephesus and examine the behavior of the rioters who exemplify some of the most common human sins. In this lesson, we confront the reality that those same sins are present in all of us, and look to Jesus to find a new way to be human - the true way to be human.Visit us online at hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 52 of our study through the book of Acts, we follow a thread that runs through three encounters: 1) the twelve believers that Paul finds in Ephesus 2) the seven misguided sons of Sceva, and 3) the new believers who give up their old sorceries. As we follow this thread, we will focus on the power of the Holy Spirit and the need for Christians to embrace the Gift of the Holy Spirit, which is given to us in Christ to do the work of the Gospel.
In part 51 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the way that Paul, Priscilla, Aquila, and Apollos seemed to simply trust God with other people. They didn’t let relational anxiety or personal pride trip them up. From their example, we will explore the implications of this in our own lives and relationships, and challenge ourselves with the question: "How will you practice trusting God in your relationships this week?"
In part 50 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at Luke's description of Paul's stay in Corinth and overlay it with Paul's letters written during and after that time to see how God worked to build the church community and partner them together in mutual support. From this, we can learn what to expect from God when we focus on obedience and faithfulness, rather than on the outcomes that we think God wants from us.
In part 49 of our study through the book of Acts, we take a second look at Paul's speech to the Areopagus Council in Athens and unpack the theology of his message, which is about Who God is, what we are, and how we must relate to God.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 48 of our study through the book of Acts, we begin to explore Paul's sermon in Athens at the Areopagus and follow his example to see how we can share the gospel in a way that is relevant to our culture, but not aligned with it.
Visit us online at hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at hopevalley.church/devo
In part 47 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the way the Bereans responded to Paul's teaching. They were open minded and teachable, but also diligent and placed the burden on themselves to study the scripture and verify Paul's message. How can we learn from their example in our own approach to Christian teaching?Visit us online at hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at hopevalley.church/devo
In part 46 of our study through the book of Acts, we explore the paradox of the jailer being set free. Freedom is a theme that runs through the events of this passage, and we will be looking at where true freedom comes from: Christ and not our circumstances.Visit us online at hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at hopevalley.church/devo
In part 45 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the many ways that God directed Paul and the team. He moved them in a clear direction, but it was still up to them to find their way by using the gifts and skills that God was developing in them. The lesson for us is to be alert and attentive to God’s direction and then courageous enough to move forward, putting into practice the things that God has been developing in us.Visit us online at hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at hopevalley.church/devo
In part 44 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the apparent contradiction of Paul circumcising Timothy and explore the importance of reputation to building relational bridges with others. In order to do this, we will have to follow Jesus' example of laying down our rights, just as Timothy does in this passage.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 43 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at Acts 15:35-41 where neither Paul or Barnabas seemed to have the obviously right answer about what to do with John-Mark. In this lesson, we consider how we can allow for differences of opinion and direction within the church, remembering that each of us answer to God.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 42 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the way that the first doctrinal dispute was settled in the early church. It wasn’t left to each individual to decide for themselves - they took a community approach to hearing from God, not an individualistic approach. Furthermore, we see the early Christians trusted God to speak through the church and its leadership. So, we must challenge our individualistic mindset - one that would say, “I know what God told me and no one can tell me otherwise.” We must humble ourselves and accept that the Word of God when confirmed through trusted leaders, brothers, and sisters, is more reliable and binding than our own personal beliefs and convictions.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 41 of our study through the book of Acts we focus on Peter’s question: “Why are you testing God...” Grace is so incredible that it is hard to truly accept. Our human nature wants to add conditions and requirements to God’s grace, so that we can feel deserving of it. When we do this, we place burdens on ourselves and others that are not from God. The goal of this lesson is to exhort people to embrace the grace of God - both for ourselves and for others.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at www.hopevalley.church/devo
This Easter Sunday, Pastor Sam explores three things that the resurrection of Jesus means for those who follow Him.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 40 of our study through the book of Acts, we unpack the encouragement Paul and Barnabas gave the disciples on their return journey: “It is necessary to go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” Struggle was expected. It wasn’t a sign to them that things had gone badly. In this lesson, we explore how the Christian life isn't about making things easier - it is about making them better.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 39 of our study through the book of Acts, we consider what Paul and Barnabas say to the crowds who were stuck in their pagan thinking. God had “left Himself a witness” by giving humanity many blessings, and yet the Lycaonian people kept attributing these things to lesser beings and idols of their own making. We must learn to identify and correct this error in our own lives, so we are ready to help others also see where God has “left Himself a witness” in their lives.
Visit us online at hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at hopevalley.church/devo
In part 38 of our study through the book of Acts, we focus on the description of the lame man in Acts 14:8-10: he "had faith to be healed." In this lesson we'll explore why faith is critical to receiving anything from God, but also wrestle with the difficult reality that God doesn't always give us what we ask for - even when we pray in faith.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 37 of our study through the book of Acts, we focus on Paul and Barnabas’ persistence in evangelism. Previously we noted how they turned from the Jews to the Gentiles, when the Jews rejected the message. But here, we don’t see them turn from the Gentiles - instead they persist because of their faithfulness to God’s assignment for them.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 36 of our study through the book of Acts, we focus on Paul and Barnabas’ clear devotion to the assignment God had given them. They were willing to lose people (their own fellow Jews) in order to be obedient to God. As a result, God’s work was clearly done in the people that He had sent Paul and Barnabas to reach (the Gentiles). The lesson for us is that we must be led by God and understand our assignment, rather than being led by the demands of other people and the fear of losing them.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 35 of our study through the book of Acts, Pastor Sam explores a different way of encouraging people, than what we might normally think of.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 34 of our study through the book of Acts, Pastor Sam talks about learning to identify the voice of the enemy, so we can discern when the devil is bringing confusion and confront his lies with the clarity and authority that comes from the Holy Spirit.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at www.hopevalley.church/devo
In this week's message, we resume our study through the book of Acts by picking up where we left off at the end of Acts 12 in November. Pastor Sam explores how the church in Antioch had incredible unity with one another and the Holy Spirit, while themselves being culturally and racially diverse, such that they and the Holy Spirit were described as having the same action.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
In this first message of 2024, Pastor Sam explores parts of 1 Corinthians 10, 11, & 12 to think more deeply about what is being offered to us in the act of Holy Communion - the bread and cup. And how Communion is designed to unite us with Christ and with His Body: our brothers and sisters in the church.
eucharist #HolyCommunion #churchunity #closeness #bodyofChrist
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
During this Christmas season, we have been going verse-by-verse through the first chapter of Luke to learn how to receive the promises we have in Christ by the Incarnation. In this final part, we consider the conclusion to Zechariah's story and how he was finally able to experience the same joy that Mary, Elizabeth, and others had already been experiencing.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
During this Christmas season, we are going verse-by-verse through the first chapter of Luke to learn how to receive the promises we have in Christ. In this third part of the series, we examine Mary's song - historically known as the Magnificat - and see how Mary put her reception of God's promises into words.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
During this Christmas season, we are going verse-by-verse through the first chapter of Luke to learn how to receive the promises we have in Christ. In this second part of the series, we look at how Mary responded to God's promises despite her capacity.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
During this Christmas season, we are slowing down to receive the many promises embedded in the Incarnation - which is what Christmas is really about. In this first part, we begin our journey through Luke 1, and learn from the story of Zechariah that our own capacity is not a factor in God's ability to carry out His promises.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 32 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the story of King Herod in Acts 12 and explore the implications for our own lives.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 31 of our study through the book of Acts we look at how the church continued to pray for Peter during his imprisonment, even when they didn't seem to think those prayers would be answered - and we consider the implications for our own approach to prayer in our daily lives.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 30 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the spread of the Gospel to Antioch in Acts 11, and consider how Barnabas and others took a team approach to ministry.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sqFind our weekly devotionals at https://www.hopevalley.church/devo
In part 29 of our study through the book of Acts, we explore the conversation that Peter has with other Jews back in Jerusalem, when they confront Him about receiving the Gentiles believers as brothers - and we contemplate the question: "How do you know when you're standing in God's way?"Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 28 of our study through the book of Acts, we explore the rest of Acts chapter 10 and unpack the implications of what happens in Cornelius' house when Peter gets there, and what it means for all people, as we understand the heart and mission of God to reconcile people to Himself.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 27 of our study through the book of Acts, we explore the implications of the vision that Peter has on the rooftop in Joppa, and challenge our thinking on who gets to define us.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 26 of our study through the book of Acts, we start into chapter 10 and examine the implications of God's message to Cornelius, a Roman Centurion, who had somehow gained God's attention without being a Christian or even Jewish.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 25 of our study through the book of Acts, we slow down to consider the synergy between having faith in God and love for one another, as evidenced by the incredible request of the believers in Joppa.
In part 24 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at Saul's first visit back to Jerusalem after his incredible conversion, and how Barnabas leveraged his reputation and relationships in the church to advocate for Saul and gain acceptance for him in the church community.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 23 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the story of Jesus sending Ananias to Saul to minister healing and bring about transformation in Saul's life - after Jesus had confronted Saul on the road to Damascus. We consider the question "Why Does Obedience to Jesus, matter?" and what it means to partner with God his work in the lives of others.
In part 21 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the story of Philip and the Ethiopian Official in Acts Chapter 8, and reflect on the real impact that our personal Bible-study time has on the people around us.
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In part 20 of our study through the book of Acts, Pastor Sam examines the story of Simon in Acts 8 and how following Jesus means changing what you want, not just changing what you believe.
In part 18 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at the death of Stephen and what it really means to lay down your life daily for Jesus.
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In part 17 of our study through the book of Acts, Pastor Sam takes a third and final pass through Stephen's speech to the Sanhedrin in Acts 7:2-53 and explores a third main point Stephen was making. Humanity's default response to God and His chosen representatives has always been to reject and resist. But why?
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In part 16 of our study through the book of Acts, we take a second pass at Stephen's speech to the Sanhedrin in Acts 7:2-53 and explore a second main point in his argument - the blessings of God are not limited to the Holy Land or the Temple - and how that point applies to us today.
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In part 15 of our study through the book of Acts, Pastor Sam unpacks the first of three big ideas that run through Stephen's speech to the Sanhedrin in Acts 7 - and explores how we resist God without realizing it, when we expect Him to work inside the values and traditions we attach ourselves to.
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In part 14 of our study through the book of Acts, Pastor Sam looks at Stephen, who was known for being filled with the Spirit by the character he displayed. not just by the power of his ministry.
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In part 13 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at how the Apostles addressed a complaint within the early church. They solved the problem without creating another and we will explore how they did that.
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In part 12 of our study through the book of Acts, we slow down to look at three verses that expose an incredible way to look at suffering. What should we expect out of life? How can we push through adversity? Why do some things get so much harder when we start following Jesus? Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 11 of our study through the book of Acts, we consider the wisdom offered by a respected teacher in the Sanhedrin, when the apostles were arrested for a second time - and touch on Peter reflecting on the same idea later in his life, as he wrote 1 Peter.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 10 of our verse-by-verse study through the book of Acts, we look at the story of Ananias and Sapphira - exploring this shocking event in the early church to understand the importance of honesty in relationships and why it is critical in the church.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 9 of our verse-by-verse study through the book of Acts, we slow down to examine the way the apostles responded to being threatened with beatings, imprisonment, or worse by the authorities - all for sharing the gospel and healing people in Jesus' name. By looking at the way they prayed, we can learn a lot about what to do with fear in our own lives.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 8 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at how Peter and John handle opposition from the Jewish leadership and learn some lessons we can apply to the opposition we face when sharing the gospel today.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 7 of our study through the book of Acts, we look at Acts 3:11-26 and ask the question "Whose reputation should we be building and why?" and we look at the urgency of communicating to people their need for Jesus and opportunity to receive Him.
In part 6 of our study through the Book of Acts, Pastor Sam tackles Acts 3:1-10 and how the power of Jesus isn't limited to working within the boundaries of our circumstances or limited to what we know to ask for.
In part 5 of our study through the book of Acts, Pastor Sam slows down on the last seven verses of Acts chapter two to reflect on what it looks like - in practice - when a church community actually treats Jesus as the "head of the household"Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 4 of our verse-by-verse study through the book of Acts, Pastor Sam unpacks Peter's sermon in Acts 2:14-40 to find the key ideas of what we must share about Jesus when we share the gospel.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In part 3 of our study through the book of Acts, Pastor Sam breaks down Acts 2:1-13 and explores how the first gift the Holy Spirit empowered was a supernatural ability to communicate God's word - and we look at the implications of the how people responded to, or dismissed, this message.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In Part 2 of this verse-by-verse study through the book of Acts, Pastor Sam walks through an interesting story in Acts 1:12-26 that helps us explore the question of how to make decisions when we don't have a clear direction on what to do next.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
This week we launch our verse-by-verse study through the book of Acts! In this week's lesson, Pastor Sam walks through Acts 1:1-11 and explores God's purpose in our lives and the role of the Holy Spirit in the work God has given us to do.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam tackles the question, "What does 'saved' mean? 'Saved' from what?" and how appreciating the gift of salvation creates a desire for holiness, not just a burden to "not sin."This is the eighth and final message in a series we're calling "You Asked For It" where each week we explored a question submitted by people in the church.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam tackles the complex and mysterious descriptions of God's Rest in the scriptures, and ends with some practical ways of understanding God's Rest and how we can enter it in the middle of our daily lives.This is the seventh message in a series we're calling "You Asked For It" where each week we explore a question submitted by people in the church.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam answers the question, "Are emotions from God? Should I listen to them or not?" and explores what the Bible teaches about our "listening to our heart".This is the fifth message in a series we're calling "You Asked For It" where each week we explore a question submitted by people in the church.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam answers the question, "In what way will believers be judged by Jesus?" and explores the implications of it on the Christian life.This is the fifth message in a series we're calling "You Asked For It" where each week we explore a question submitted by people in the church.Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about finding joy in Jesus, looking back at the Joy that marked His arrival on Earth, looking forward to the Joy we will experience at His second coming, but also receiving the Joy of His presence with us today.The season of Advent is a time to dwell on the arrival of Jesus, which is a past, future, and present event – all at the same time. Advent reminds us of the timeless nature of God and His work. In the Advent season, we reflect on what He has already done, we look forward to what He has still promised to do, and we slow down to receive what He is doing right now. In this series we will explore the four historical themes of the Advent season: Hope, Faith, Joy, and Peace. Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam explores the Faith we have in Jesus, and why having faith means being faithful.The season of Advent is a time to dwell on the arrival of Jesus, which is a past, future, and present event – all at the same time. Advent reminds us of the timeless nature of God and His work. In the Advent season, we reflect on what He has already done, we look forward to what He has still promised to do, and we slow down to receive what He is doing right now. In this series we will explore the four historical themes of the Advent season: Hope, Faith, Joy, and Peace. Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam explores the Hope we have in Jesus, and how it can energize and sustain us, even in the darkest times, as it has for the generations that have gone before us.
The season of Advent is a time to dwell on the arrival of Jesus, which is a past, future, and present event – all at the same time. Advent reminds us of the timeless nature of God and His work. In the Advent season, we reflect on what He has already done, we look forward to what He has still promised to do, and we slow down to receive what He is doing right now. In this series we will explore the four historical themes of the Advent season: Hope, Faith, Joy, and Peace.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam tackles the question, "How can I get better at communication in relationships?" and explores what the scriptures teach about how we should approach one another.
This is the fourth message in a series we're calling "You Asked For It" where each week we explore a question submitted by you. WANT TO SUBMIT A QUESTION FOR THIS SERIES? Follow this link: https://forms.gle/eXUnbWdcspA98pky6
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam tackles the question, "How do I know what God wants me to do?" and explores how God speaks to us as we do the work of living the way He has taught us to live.
This is the third message in a series we're calling "You Asked For It" where each week we explore a question submitted by you. WANT TO SUBMIT A QUESTION FOR THIS SERIES? Follow this link: https://forms.gle/eXUnbWdcspA98pky6
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam tackles the question, "How Should I Love Myself?" and explores the difference between the Biblical view of self-love and the modern American view of self-love.
This is the second message in a series we're calling "You Asked For It" where each week we explore a question submitted by you. WANT TO SUBMIT A QUESTION FOR THIS SERIES? Follow this link: https://forms.gle/eXUnbWdcspA98pky6
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam tackles the question "Do I need 'good works' to be saved?"
This is the first message in a series we're calling "You Asked For It" where each week we explore a question submitted by you. WANT TO SUBMIT A QUESTION FOR THIS SERIES? Follow this link: https://forms.gle/eXUnbWdcspA98pky6
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about seasons of detachment, where we lose things that gave us a sense of identity, direction, and purpose - and what God is doing in these seasons where we feel so lost.
This is the fourth part in a four-part series called "The Wilderness" where we are learning how God uses "wilderness experiences" to let certain things within us die, so that we can experience a deeper life and love in Him.
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In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about what God is doing in a season where our weakness, failure, and even our sin is being exposed in a way that feels public and humiliating.
This is the third part in a four-part series called "The Wilderness" where we are learning how God uses "wilderness experiences" to let certain things within us die, so that we can experience a deeper life and love in Him.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam explores what God is doing in a season of disillusionment, where people are letting you down, institutions are failing, and God isn't matching the picture in your head.
This is the second part in a four-part series called "The Wilderness" where we are learning how God uses "wilderness experiences" to let certain things within us die, so that we can experience a deeper life and love in Him.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam explores what God is doing in the seasons where He feels distant and the things that used to relax, rejuvenate, and fuel us, no longer seem to be working - or we lose them altogether.
This is the first part in a four-part series called "The Wilderness" where we are learning how God uses "wilderness experiences" to let certain things within us die, so that we can experience a deeper life and love in Him.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about how we can take advantage of the opportunities we have in the middle of hardships - rather than only seeing them in hindsight.
This is part of a 3-part series called "Facing the Storm" where we are learning how to do more than just survive storms and seasons of suffering in our lives. By facing suffering the way that Jesus did, we can learn to embrace the storm, see the hope through the storm, and leverage the storm for personal growth and victory for the Kingdom of God.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about learning to see hope through the storms in our lives. Though the storm is always shifting and changing, God is not.
This is part of a 3-part series called "Facing the Storm" where we are learning how to do more than just survive storms and seasons of suffering in our lives. By facing suffering the way that Jesus did, we can learn to embrace the storm, see the hope through the storm, and leverage the storm for personal growth and victory for the Kingdom of God.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about we can embrace the storms in our lives, rather than resent them.
This is part of a 3-part series called "Facing the Storm" where we are learning how to do more than just survive storms and seasons of suffering in our lives. By facing suffering the way that Jesus did, we can learn to embrace the storm, see the hope through the storm, and leverage the storm for personal growth and victory for the Kingdom of God.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks explains how trusting in God's wisdom is the pathway to peace for our minds, hearts, and actions.
"Asking for God" is a five-part series where we are discovering how we can learn to hear God, not by asking Him to speak more, but by moving ourselves towards Him as we meditate on His nature and find delight in who He is.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about learning to appreciate the authority of God and slow down our pace of life.
"Asking for God" is a five-part series where we are discovering how we can learn to hear God, not by asking Him to speak more, but by moving ourselves towards Him as we meditate on His nature and find delight in who He is.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam explains how meditating on the love of God, with all its implications, brings stability to our hearts, minds, and even other human relationships.
"Asking for God" is a five-part series where we are discovering how we can learn to hear God, not by asking Him to speak more, but by moving ourselves towards Him as we meditate on His nature and find delight in who He is.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about how we can develop a craving for God to reveal Himself to us, which draws us deeper into the ways He has already revealed Himself to us.
"Asking for God" is a five-part series where we are discovering how we can learn to hear God, not by asking Him to speak more, but by moving ourselves towards Him as we meditate on His nature and find delight in who He is.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this first of five lessons, Pastor Sam talks about the nature of God's mercy and the effect it has on our heart when we meditate on it.
"Asking for God" is a five-part series where we are discovering how we can learn to hear God, not by asking Him to speak more, but by moving ourselves towards Him as we meditate on His nature and find delight in who He is.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about how to intentionally connect with people and build relationship in order to point them to Jesus.
This is one part in a 5-part series about sharing the good news of Jesus with others. When we understand the story of our own lives as being part of the larger STORY of God’s love, we have a testimony to share with other people that is authentic, needed, and compelling. If you're not yet a believer in Jesus, or don't even know what that means, please reach out to us. We would love to talk to you about it.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam breaks down the three parts of a testimony, and how we can be ready with a clear and compelling story of the work of Jesus in our lives.
This is one part in a 5-part series about sharing the good news of Jesus with others. When we understand the story of our own lives as being part of the larger STORY of God’s love, we have a testimony to share with other people that is authentic, needed, and compelling. If you're not yet a believer in Jesus, or don't even know what that means, please reach out to us. We would love to talk to you about it.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about the work of the Holy Spirit in illuminating THE STORY of God's love and what role we play in a person coming to know Jesus.
This is one part in a 5-part series about sharing the good news of Jesus with others. When we understand the story of our own lives as being part of the larger STORY of God’s love, we have a testimony to share with other people that is authentic, needed, and compelling. If you're not yet a believer in Jesus, or don't even know what that means, please reach out to us. We would love to talk to you about it.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam breaks down THE STORY of God love - a.k.a. the Gospel - into four main plot points, that are easy to remember and share with others.
This is one part in a 5-part series about sharing the good news of Jesus with others. When we understand the story of our own lives as being part of the larger STORY of God’s love, we have a testimony to share with other people that is authentic, needed, and compelling. If you're not yet a believer in Jesus, or don't even know what that means, please reach out to us. We would love to talk to you about it.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about understanding your testimony as being part of the larger story of God's love, and how God has strategically placed you near other people who need to hear it.
This is one part in a 5-part series about sharing the good news of Jesus with others. When we understand the story of our own lives as being part of the larger STORY of God’s love, we have a testimony to share with other people that is authentic, needed, and compelling. If you're not yet a believer in Jesus, or don't even know what that means, please reach out to us. We would love to talk to you about it.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about the "Day of the Lord" and how the expectation of God's judgement is both a sobering reality and a source of comfort and hope for today, and how all that should impact the way we live right now.
This is part of a ten part "Bible Threads" series - adapted from The Bible Project video series on Biblical Themes - where we look at several core themes and ideas that are threaded through the scriptures, in order to better understand the story of the Bible, how it all points to Jesus, and what it all means for our lives today.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
To learn more about the work of The Bible Project and their series on Biblical Themes, check out this link: https://bibleproject.com/explore/themes/
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about the theme of "Exile" that runs through the story of the Bible, and how followers of Jesus are called to live in the world as people that belong to a better world.
This is part of a ten part "Bible Threads" series - adapted from The Bible Project video series on Biblical Themes - where we look at several core themes and ideas that are threaded through the scriptures, in order to better understand the story of the Bible, how it all points to Jesus, and what it all means for our lives today.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
To learn more about the work of The Bible Project and their series on Biblical Themes, check out this link: https://bibleproject.com/explore/themes/
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about why the "Good News" - a.k.a. the Gospel - is such good news! And how Jesus satisfies our desire for an authority that we can finally trust and rely on.
This is part of a ten part "Bible Threads" series - adapted from The Bible Project video series on Biblical Themes - where we look at several core themes and ideas that are threaded through the scriptures, in order to better understand the story of the Bible, how it all points to Jesus, and what it all means for our lives today.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
To learn more about the work of The Bible Project and their series on Biblical Themes, check out this link: https://bibleproject.com/explore/themes/
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about the Biblical thread of the Sabbath Rest and how God calls us to rest in the completion of His work, rather than exhausting ourselves on work that never feels finished.
This is part of a ten part "Bible Threads" series - adapted from The Bible Project video series on Biblical Themes - where we look at several core themes and ideas that are threaded through the scriptures, in order to better understand the story of the Bible, how it all points to Jesus, and what it all means for our lives today.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
To learn more about the work of The Bible Project and their series on Biblical Themes, check out this link: https://bibleproject.com/explore/themes/
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about the Biblical thread of the Sabbath Rest and how God calls us to rest in the completion of His work, rather than exhausting ourselves on work that never feels finished.
This is part of a ten part "Bible Threads" series - adapted from The Bible Project video series on Biblical Themes - where we look at several core themes and ideas that are threaded through the scriptures, in order to better understand the story of the Bible, how it all points to Jesus, and what it all means for our lives today.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
To learn more about the work of The Bible Project and their series on Biblical Themes, check out this link: https://bibleproject.com/explore/themes/
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about the Biblical theme of Sacrifice and Atonement and how Jesus permanently deals with both the direct and indirect effects of our sins.
This is part of a ten part "Bible Threads" series - adapted from The Bible Project video series on Biblical Themes - where we look at several core themes and ideas that are threaded through the scriptures, in order to better understand the story of the Bible, how it all points to Jesus, and what it all means for our lives today.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
To learn more about the work of The Bible Project and their series on Biblical Themes, check out this link: https://bibleproject.com/explore/themes/
In this week's message Pastor Sam talks about how God's Law reveals our stubbornness and our need for new hearts, and how Jesus teaches us to fulfill the law by loving God and loving others.
This is part of a ten part "Bible Threads" series - adapted from The Bible Project video series on Biblical Themes - where we look at several core themes and ideas that are threaded through the scriptures, in order to better understand the story of the Bible, how it all points to Jesus, and what it all means for our lives today.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
To learn more about the work of The Bible Project and their series on Biblical Themes, check out this link: https://bibleproject.com/explore/themes/
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about the nature of God's holiness, how our sin creates a relationship barrier, and how God purifies us so that we can be close to Him.
This is part of a ten part "Bible Threads" series - adapted from The Bible Project video series on Biblical Themes - where we look at several core themes and ideas that are threaded through the scriptures, in order to better understand the story of the Bible, how it all points to Jesus, and what it all means for our lives today.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
To learn more about the work of The Bible Project and their series on Biblical Themes, check out this link: https://bibleproject.com/explore/themes/
In this week's message, Pastor Sam explains what the Image of God is and is not, and how Jesus gives us the example and the empowerment to be the kind of humanity that God created us to be.
This is part of a ten part "Bible Threads" series - adapted from The Bible Project video series on Biblical Themes - where we look at several core themes and ideas that are threaded through the scriptures, in order to better understand the story of the Bible, how it all points to Jesus, and what it all means for our lives today.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
To learn more about the work of The Bible Project and their series on Biblical Themes, check out this link: https://bibleproject.com/explore/themes/
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about the Biblical thread of "Heaven and Earth" and how God's design and plan for humanity has always been to cohabitate with us.
In this ten part "Bible Threads" series - adapted from The Bible Project video series on Biblical Themes - we look at several core themes and ideas that are threaded through the scriptures, in order to better understand the story of the Bible, how it all points to Jesus, and what it all means for our lives today.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
To learn more about the work of The Bible Project and their series on Biblical Themes, check out this link: https://bibleproject.com/explore/themes/
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about learning to rely on God's words for victory in our battle against the spiritual enemy we face, and why God's words are effective in a way that our own words, ideas, reasoning, and arguments never can be.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about why we all have some immature and destructive thinking patterns, how the enemy tries to exploit our corrupted thinking, and how Jesus can renew our minds and give us the "mind of Christ."
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about how the devil exploits our need for certainty and predictability, and how faith is about learning to have confidence in God's character rather than in knowing what God will do.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about what it means to wear the "readiness that comes from the Gospel of Peace" like shoes for your feet, and how peace with God and unity with other believers provides stable footing for our lives.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about the Breastplate of Righteousness from Ephesians 6, and what it means to find our defense and security in Jesus' value and identity, and the hope we have in Him.
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In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about how our understanding of truth is what anchors our thoughts, emotions, and actions, and why we have to reject the idea that we can create our own truth and instead embrace the idea that God is the only source of truth.
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In this week's message, Pastor Sam talks about learning to realize that our battles are spiritual, rather than physical, and the need to stop viewing other people as our enemy, and instead to start seeking their redemption and restoration.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this week's message, Pastor Sam begins a new series walking through Ephesians 6:10-17, talking about what does it mean to be strong in the Lord, rather than strong in ourselves, and why we must reject self-sufficiency in the battles we face.
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In this final episode of our six part series on Worship, Pastor Sam talks about the heart of a worshipper being a faithful heart, and explores what it really means to be faithful to God, beyond just being loyal.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this fifth episode of our six part series on Worship, Pastor Sam talks about the importance of guarding our heart and the negative effects we experience when we fail to do so.
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In this fourth episode of our six part series on Worship, Pastor Sam talks about the importance of cultivating a thankful heart by learning to be content, rather than waiting to be satisfied.
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In this third of six lessons on the topic of Worship, we talk about understanding the need to be transformed by God in the way we live our lives - and that submitting to this transformation is one of the way we worship Him.
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In this second of six lessons on the topic of Worship, we talk about how God's Spirit is our spirit's greatest need and what it means to worship in spirit and in truth.
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In this first of six lessons on the topic of Worship, we start by focusing on who God is and how He has revealed Himself, as the fuel and motivation for our worship.
Visit us online at www.hopevalley.church or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hopevalley4sq
In this final of four lessons on the practical nature and use of spiritual gifts, we learn some practical lessons on using spiritual gifts in the church, including some red flags and green flags to watch out for.
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In this third of four lessons on the practical nature and use of spiritual gifts, we learn that God places a high priority on character, as demonstrated by our love, over simply being gifted. In fact, the scripture says that if we don't have this good character, our gifts and talents have no value.
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In this second of four lessons on the practical nature and use of spiritual gifts, we learn that spiritual gifts help us to function as the body of Christ, and that we have a responsibility to one another to pursue their development in our lives.
In this first of four lessons on the practical nature and use of spiritual gifts, we begin by learning that the foundation for understanding spiritual gifts is realizing that we serve a God who speaks and is not silent.
In this last of three lessons about the reasons why we should pray, Pastor Sam talks about how prayer to God actually accomplishes real things in the real world.
In this second of three lessons, Pastor Sam talks about the importance of using our prayer time to receive direction from God, rather than try to give it to Him.
In this first of three lessons, Pastor Sam talks about the ultimate reason for prayer and gives three steps for growing your prayer life.
In this fourth and last part of our series on what it means to be a Genuine Follower of Jesus, we learn about the priority Jesus places on loving other people in practical ways, and especially our treatment of other believers in Christ.
In part three of our series on what it means to be a Genuine Follower of Jesus, we learn about placing God's priorities and agenda higher than our own in our prayer life.
In part two of our series on what it means to be a Genuine Follower of Jesus, we look at the importance of prioritizing Jesus above every other relationship and priority that we have.
In part one of our series on what it means to be a Genuine Follower of Jesus, we look at the importance of real repentance that is demonstrated in how we live our lives.