Fresh Start in Christ with Viroqua Nazarene: Recent Episodes
Matt Angell
Ever felt like you've messed up and need a fresh start? Viroqua Church of the Nazarene is here with good news each week, guiding you to make your first step toward a Fresh Start in Jesus Christ. We publish the audio recordings of the weekly message here and the text in blog form at our blog page. https://viroquanaz.home.blog/
We've been serving Viroqua, WI since 1941. Whether you are from the area or from elsewhere in the world, The good news is for you!
(This message does start already in progress…)
In this message we look at the heart that is missing from religious practices and their connection to a “do as I say not as I do” kind of lifestyle. I also outline my plan for Sabbatical in this message (though the introduction is what I missed recording.)
The rhythm of rest is a gift from God. As we will hear in this message, it can be a test of our trust in God. Do we trust Him to care for us on the day of rest? And what happened in history when this rhythm was extremely neglected?
Have you ever take a break? Like a real break. Unplug from the daily grind, quiet yourself and just listen and think on God? I usually move quickly from one thing to the next that I don't take intentional time to focus in on God. It's something He's showing me and our church...that sabbath is a gift. Will we accept it?
"It's my right to________, and you can't do a thing about it!"
Are you familiar with this sentiment? The truth is we do all have certain rights. Rights given to us to use and we can use them for ourselves...or regarding responsibilities...laying them down for the betterment of others.
Paul talks about this in 1 Corinthians chapters 8-10 and in this message we ask the questions, "What are our rights?" and "What are we going to do with them?"
Who says the Bible doesn't talk about the importance of intimacy in marriage? Paul gives some solid directions to the the Corinthians because of the current state of immortality...and because of Jesus coming back soon (tm).
Will you be ready?
What would Jesus Do? Would he go to jail? Would he bring healing and help to those incarcerated, no matter the reason for the imprisonment? What do you think?
Moreover, what can he do in a detention facility when someone follows him with his who heart, body, soul and mind?
How are we to handle someone, in the church, who is not repentant? Do we just marvel at God’s Grace, do we act prideful, or do we use spirit filled judgment and discipline? What does The Bible say on this? Check out this message from 1 Corinthians 5-6.
Woo hoo! Let's be MORE divided and throw shade at others!
...said no one ever.
But somehow, the early church got into quarrelling with one another over the human leaders, when they should have been focusing on following Jesus.
In this podcast we’ll unpack our upcoming outreach event and the early church activities that this event and things like it reflect. We are gathering dry kindling, preparing for the Holy Spirit to spark a flame.
In this message, we draw our series, "Restoration Business" to a close...for now.
But God is not done restoring and calling people to relationship with Him. He wants all of creation to be restored...even better, remade - how it was originally intended.
"What's wrong with 'The Church?!' Why are they acting and behaving that way? Why do they put so much emphasis on human teachers & leaders?"
If you've wondered this, you're in good company. In 1 Corinthians 1, Paul had some things to point out to the church in Corinth to their spiritually unhealthy devotion to human leaders. What might that say to us today?
Join us as we walk through the books of 1 & 2 Corinthians!
What is "The Bottom Line"? It's usually spoken about in business when you are trying to figure out how much you can make over expenses. In car restoration, you might think of it as how much value you'll get out of the fully restored car verses how much time and money you had to put into.
As for the Parable of the Lost (prodigal) Son? How much did it cost the father to welcome his wayward son back home...and did the father come out ahead?
You know that little annoying light on your dashboard? The one that tells you something's wrong on the inside of your vehicle? Many times we ignore it, but it's quite easy to get it check and then attempt to fix or restore what went wrong. Spiritually this happens during Repentation & Regeneration. Listen to find out more...
God is in the Restoration business. He wants something for us that we had way back when he made…everything. Question is, will you hop in and go with Him on your own journey of Restoration, or being made whole?
Have you ever wondered, “what do these ‘Nazarene’ people really believe?” This is a snapshot of the core values of the Church of the Nazarene. We are Christian, Holiness, and Missional.
Not all stories end with "and they lived happily ever after." The stores of Asa and his son, Jehoshaphat, kings of Judah had some bumps along the way, generally caused by their own poor choices. The hills and valleys of their stories make it easier for us to relate and also, hopefully easier for us to learn from.
Teaching on selections from 2 Chronicles 15-20.
Commencement season is upon us.
I think I’ve found a commencement speech in the book of 2 Chronicles. The question is, how motivational was the speech?
Thought the last two Joel message were a little too heavy and dark? It does come with the prophetic territory. But this message tries to look at the Day of the Lord as mentioned in Joel not only as a terrible day, but also a great day. It all depends on your perspective and your position on that day.
In our last podcast, we looked Joel chapter 1 and a little into the chapter two. Tragedy struck the people and the natural and right response is to turn our attention to God. In this message we take it one step further. We look God's response when people not only give their attention but their hearts and lives in his care.
At some point in your life, you will or have faced something tragic. How are you suppose to deal with that? We look at Joel chapters 1-2 to find the answer.
What does it really mean to "own" you faith? What would it look like if someone truly believed what they said they believed in? We get a good picture and example in the early days of the church in the book of Acts and the disciples and apostles shared about the Resurrection of Christ.
Question is, do you want to go deeper?
Have you ever been to a parade? Chance are, you have. They are pretty cross-cultural and have many different reasons for parading. But one particular Parade in the bible had a deep purpose behind it. This message not only looks at the story of Palm Sunday, but the prophecy behind it.
What would you be willing to die for? Your best friend? Your family? Your Country? Your favorite sports team? Ok...maybe not that last one.
But would you be will to lose your life for something you knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, was a lie.
In this last message, we will example the witness reports of the resurrection as found in Luke 24, talk about the mortal fate of many of the disciples, and as the question that's the title of this podcast.
Jesus was the spotless lamb, but he was found guilty and executed for his crime. What was it?
Next week concludes our series with Luke 24.
Luke 22 and a look where the Seder tradition and the Last Supper overlaps. Jesus uses sacred elements from the Passover Meal to illustrate what he will do for all mankind.
Luke 21 Jesus gives his followers a some heavenly insight to what really matters in life.
Think back to the last time someone pulled a trick question on you, trying to get you to agree to something you didn't believe or at the very least, haven't given deeper consideration. Jesus could have brushed off trick questions. But instead he turned trick questions into opportunities.
Jesus took on challenges that were intended to make him look bad or unknowledgeable and turned them back around on his challengers. Luke 20:1-19
A tax collector getting special attention and treatment from a famous person. A ruler sentencing to death his enemies that disagree with him being their ruler. And a financial audit.
I know, riveting! But Luke 19:1-44 is a penultimate selection of scripture, culminating in a ironic parade welcoming in a King, who the crowd would later reject.
What kind of attitude should we have when we come to God in Prayer? In two parables and a teaching, Jesus clues us into the way we ought to approach God...if we are even praying to Him at all. Luke 18:1-17
The disciples desired an increase in their faith, but why? What was so challenging that they needed help with? In this podcast, we look at what the difficult this was and how it’s essential for Christians still today.
With so many people in need, what am I supposed to do with what I have.
Use it.
Yup that's right. Take a look at what Jesus said in Luke 16:1-15 and the parable of the shrewd manager.
Have you ever felt lost? Maybe realize you are lost after a while of thinking you were just fine? In Luke 15, Jesus talks with several kinds of lost people.
Christmas focuses a lot on Jesus' birth story and the miraculous events that surround it. What would it have been like to be one of Jesus' siblings? Oh...by the way, the bible does talk about brothers and sisters. In this podcast we take a look at many of the passages referencing Jesus' siblings and mother to gain a better understand of what it takes to be Jesus' Family.
What's your favorite thing to feel at Christmastime?
Love?Joy? Peace?
How about... Loss? Most people do feel it around this time for various reasons. What are we to do? What are we to do with the empty pages in our photo albums of memories we didn't want to remember? What about the empty chair at dinner or the unused spare bedroom?
Join us for this podcast on Matthew 2:13-23.
If the wisemen were so smart, why’d they show up 2 years late? Just kidding. In this podcast we will explore the process that the Magi took, how it shows their faith and obedience to God, and what is the wisest gift we can give Jesus as we celebrate his birthday.
How do you respond when given a gift? What if it's one you've never asked for and are not sure what do to with it?
Our integrity and authenticity are on the line when we examine: what would we do with the greatest gift ever given?
You ever had a back photo? I’m sure we all have. But photos are something special. They record in visual representation a moment in history. They help us recall feelings along with these memories.
In Matt 2:1-17 Jesus’ genealogy has surprised snapshots of people and stories that most would leave out of a personal history. They are important even if they might seem embarrassing.
Jesus sent out His 12 Apostles and later the 72. He gave them a message to share: The Kingdom of God has come near!
But what is the kingdom of God? What's it like and how near is it really? Is there anything that we can do to make it nearer?
I this podcast we address these questions.
"Worry is just Fear trying to look _______________." Can you guess that word? You won't have to if you listen through this podcast.
Jesus gave his disciples very important guidance about fear of loss of life and concern over having what they need. In a world that is oversaturate in stuff, it is so important now that we know who holds our eternity and who gives us what we need.
A man who was possessed. A people who were possession. The early days for Abe Lincoln had him quoting scripture and it was quite clever the way he did so. A house divided against itself cannot stand.
See how a crossover between Lincoln fighting slavery and Jesus freeing a possessed man turns out.
And answer the age old question in both scenarios: Who is the Bad Guy here?
The apostles finally get to Apostle! Since they we were chosen to be apostles...they didn't go anywhere apart from Jesus. That all changes in Luke 9. But when they return from their life shaping missions trip, they fall back into old habits and don't seem to Stay on Message.
In Luke 8:22-56, Jesus if with people in their storms of life and in many cases calms those storms. Storms of mental illness, medical desperation, sorrow of loss and even IRL storms.
"Why do I go to church? Why? What's the point?"
Have you ever asked these questions? If so, this may be the post that help you understand why you aren't getting "out" of church attendance what you think you should "get."
Did you ever play games like Clue or Guess Who? You deduce the answer from pieces of evidence and in the end you make your declaration, hoping you won. In Luke 7 we see many people asking “who are you?” And in the end we all have to answer, Who is Jesus to us?
We depend on people in our lives to give wise guidance, remind us of boundaries and rules, and encourage us to endzone. As Jesus began his formal ministry, he knew the power of the Time-out and the Team huddle.
When playing tabletop and card games with your family, what kind of "House Rules" do you play with?
Sometimes we can be sticklers for the letter of the law that we forget who made it and why.
Check out how Jesus handled the conflict of conscience in Luke 6:1-11.
I totally want you to listen to this bible study on Luke 5, but if you only read this description, know these two things.
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Jesus made the most of every opportunity (and Luke 5 shows it).
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There is a reason that The Gospel is called the "Good News." The Unseen are seen. The Sick are made well. The sinful are forgiven and called to follow Him.
If you listen to this study and you think I'm way off on these two points, please tell me. I hope this can be a blessing to you today.
Tests can be hard. We study for them, practice doing all the right things and in a moment, we can get a big "F." In this post we are looking at Luke 4 and how the temptation or testing of Jesus in verses 1-13 impacted Jesus in the rest of the chapter. When he was tested, how good were his grades? What did he do when he came up against a new challenge?
In this podcast we will explore questions like: Why doesn't Jesus say anything in Luke 3? Why does he even get baptized? And what was the purpose of John the baptist ministry anyway? Continue the Journey with us as we experience Jesus through the Gospel of Luke.
The early stories of Jesus' birth are not something to skip over because you've heard it before. They are also not something one should only read of hear read during the annual celebration of Jesus' birth. They are treasured account of a child like no other child has ever had.
Luke chapter two may read like the prologue to the story you are really waiting for, God's grace and mercy for all humanity through Jesus' death and resurrection. But God's Grace and Mercy are evident, even in these stories.
Christians may agree they need to be filled with the Holy Spirit, but for what purpose? Luke 1:39-80 gives two examples of people who were filled, Responded to this filling and what kind of impact that response had on others.
Have you ever submitted your resume for consideration for a job you really wanted? You thought, "I'd be perfect for this job?" Perhaps you've just put your general resume out there on one the job finding websites hoping for a contact or two. "I saw your resume; I think you'd be perfect for this job!" As we dive into the first have of Luke chapter 1, we will look at two applicants for very specialized jobs.
In our world today, we usually place all the learning on children and teach them using examples of adults through the ages. But when Jesus talked about children, many times they were the standard for his followers to emulate. In this podcast we look at what Jesus said about children, what we can learn about a child's generosity, and what are the dire consequences for leading them away from faith in Jesus.
If you've even been entrusted with a big job or task, it's most likely because you've shown yourself Faithful in a small task. In this Podcast we will look at the faithfulness of Philip the Evangelist and the chain of reactions because of a simple "Yes" to humbly serve.
Do you like just staying where you are: personally? professionally? Spiritually? Christians are called to be faithful in the day-to-day, but we also need to have times to retreat, recharge, refresh in order to improve on our daily ministry. Check out the Growth opportunities at ViroquaNaz Events Calendar – Viroqua Naz (home.blog)
What do you think is most important in your life? In anyone's life? The church in Corinth seemed to be having trouble prioritizing ministry roles over care for others. Paul steps in and explains what the Most Important Thing is.
I have a big announcement in this message, I hope you'll listen to it. Many times the starting of something new is a sacrifice, a sacrifice of security, safety, financial independance. In this podcast we will look at the intersection of the Calling of Elisha in 1 Kings 19 and the Cost of Following Jesus from Luke 9.
When you feel tired and worn down, how do you react to stressors? Chances are it's not with an level head. The Israelites returned from a long exile and Isaiah recounts their complaining and blaming God. Even so, God was and still is faithful to ReNew us, we just have to do this One Thing.
If this is your first time checking out this podcast, perhaps it will give you a snapshot of our local ministry. This message is part of the All Things NEW series, but it also does the heavy lifting of being my annual Pastoral Report. What kind of things do small chuches go through on an annual basis? How do we serve God and continue to do so, regardless of size of funding? How do we put "new wine" in "New Wineskins"?
What is NEW anyway? For us to understand newness, we have to understand what its replacing. in this podcast we look at passages from Revelation and 2 Corinthians.
June begins a new church year and with it, we will be focusing out next few podcasts on the topic of "NEW." We'll be looking at what God's Word says about New, Renewal, New fresh future, and the like.
But first to understand what God is doing we first need to understand who God is.
Each day there are so many things that grab our attention and drive us to worry and anxiousness. God's word tells us to come to Him in prayer. There's nothing too big or too small.
Wisconsin District Superitendent, Andy Albright shares from Philippians 4:6-7 and his experience with bringing everything to God and prayer and reflecting on God's answers and His timing.
Pentecost brings images of tongues of fire and holy empowerment, but what did the Old Testament festival recognize and celebrate? How can that impact how we see compassion woven throughout the early church and even today? In this podcast, we will explore the relationship of giving and receiving throughout the foundations of Christianity.
What is a wife or woman of noble character? People seem to talk about her a lot around Mother's day.
In this podcast, we'll look at Proverbs and the book of Ruth to find out how compassion is best taught and who is one of God's best teachers...
What usually happens when you are tired and exhausted? People and situations start to demand things of you, things you might feel you're not equipped or energized to do. Jesus and his disciples just needed a little alone time, potentially weary from the stint of great ministry they had done, but the crowds wouldn't let up. In the midst of their "lack" was the most apparent opportunity for compassion.
Typically we think about compassionate ministries and things that meet physical needs. However, Philip in Acts 8 shows us his compassion through meeting the spiritual needs. He shared Jesus with them.
Most people don't say, "sign me up for some persecution!"
But being treated badly based on a conflict of beliefs comes with the territory of actually standing by your beliefs, even if it would cost you your life. In this podcast we look at what Stephen say with the eyes of compassion and what it moved him to do.
Compassion is one of the key elements to the Christian Faith. In fact, you could say that Compassion and compassionate works are Faith in Action. But where does compassion start? It starts with seeing a need or situation. In this podcast we start this series on compassion, looking at the call of Saul of Tarsus and the scales that fell from his eyes.
You’ve probably heard the following expression before, “When God closes a door, he opens a window.” It’s an inspirational proverb that is NOT in the bible. In this podcast we will look at how even closed and locked doors don't stop Jesus and how some shut doors to lead to open ones.
The Death and Resurrection of Jesus are essentials to Christianity. Why did early Christians believe in the resurrection? Perhapsbecause they have experienced resurrection in their life in some way. A way only one who seeks Jesus and believes in him can truly experience it. Someone like Mary Magdalene.
(Note: The podcast was scheduled to go live March 24. Local internet issues cause this to not happen.)
This weekend is a Jewish Holiday called "Purim" which interesting has some things in common with the Christian remembrance and celebration of "Palm Sunday." In this podcast we look at where these stories overlap.
March 17 is an important day for some folks. There is ONE big reason it is celebrated and the truth might shock you.
Also, we finish out our series on Pauline letters with Philemon in this message. #biblequizzing
Do you know the difference between the phrases “it’s in the Bible…somewhere…” and “the Bible teaches…”? There is a difference and we look at Colossians 3:1-4:6 to understand it.
Have you ever felt like Christianity was just about checking a to-do list? (Or maybe a "Ta-Don't list"?)
In Colossians chapter 2, Paul identifies that too much importance had been put on religous rituals, festivals and man mad rule. Rules that were made to help us "be like Jesus" too the place of Him. Paul shows us we need to find out "who is Really our Master?"
What do you have in common with a candle? Potential.
And so did Daniel and his friends. Let's look at how they fared underpresser and underfire.
We continue our study of the book of Colossians, discovering that part of Paul's big message to them was to be wary of specific philosphical bullies. Who were they and what did Paul say in response? Check out this podcast for the full scoop.
Everyone wants to be included. Paul brings his first personal correspondence with the Colossian church, with important directions and encouragement.
Joy. Do you have it? How will anyone know? In this podcast we look at the theme of Joy/Rejoicing in Philippians, culminating in Chapter 4. (Note: some audio at the end may be hard to hear.)
What does it mean to be Christ-like? Paul not only spells it out, but gives a practical application in ch 4.
Philippians 1 brings us into this ministry partnership that Paul and Timothy shared with the church in Philippi. In partnership there are inherent benefits and risks. Paul spells them out for us in this chapter.
The Magi and the Holy Family. God provided for them and used them to provide for others. When we lay down what we have, God can pick it up and do more with it than we could ever hope for. Even our blessings, our prayers, and our burdens.
In the midst of everyday, ordinary practices and routines, amazing and surprising things can happen. In this podcast we look at Luke 2:21-39 and hear the strange occurrences mary, Joseph and baby Jesus dealt with and how the responded.
This is the recording of the entire Sunday morning worship service on Christmas Eve day, 2023.
Sometimes to look ahead toward something exciting or joyous, it’s in comparison to the current “not so joyous” situation. In Psalm 126 we will look at a song people sung and it’s deeper meaning.
The Hebrew word, “hesed” is translated “unfailing or steadfast love”. This is the Love described in this marriage vow, the covenant a man and a woman engage in - this is the Love they are called to and the love they promise to one another. This is how God lives you and me. With unfailing Love. Steadfast Love. Faithfulness. But what if we don’t see or feel God’s faithfulness right now?
Part of the “Joy of Every Longing Heart” advent series. Darkness and light, lament and hope, are more related than we sometimes like to admit. We can’t appreciate one without acknowledging and understanding the other.
Firefighters wear fire resistant jackets, pants, boots, helmets to protect against their enemy - fire. Police officers wear bulletproof vests among other gear to keep them safe from criminals. In this podcast, Paul shares an illustration of armor and protection against the Christian’s Real enemy.
Good Health. Family. A Working Car. Food on the table. A warm home. These are things we may take for granted throughout the year, but when they are in danger or removed somehow, we truly begin to understand and appreciate what we are/were missing. In this message, with the help of Psalms we can gain some insight to thankfulness that is in light of our present situation or in spite of it.
In order to not fall into the same old traps of the old life, we have to identify what they are. By comparison we can see the New Life in Christ is most certainly a charge for the Better.
Unity among believers of Christ is of utmost importance but has not always seen as achievable. In this podcast we look at Paul's various teachings on when it means to be One Body, unified in Christ Jesus.
People are perishable but they are also precious. What are we to do about that? In this podcast we examine the most famous Bible passage in light of the dairy section at your local grocery store.
They hold it together. They tear down hostility. Make foreigners into family. Two words. Listen in to this podcast on Ephesians 2.
Did you choose to listen to this podcast or are you predestined to do so? I know, that’s an oversimplification. But in this podcast, we explore Ephesians 1 and learn about the Historical Christian stances on predestination. Also we will hear what the church of the Nazarene teaches concerning salvation, free will, and what God desires for each person.
They’ve got millions of views on YouTube. They have half a million followers on Instagram. Whatever they are “trying out” during their next video will become the next big trend. Influencers. Paul calls out a particular group of them and how to withstand their sway.
Have you ever lost an item that was very precious to you? In this podcast I recount a recent story of the finding of something important to me, but also talk about Jesus’ 3 Lost Parables from Luke 15.
What things in your life do you regret doing? Maybe that tattoo of someone now not in your life? Perhaps a piercing that keeps sagging over time? Paul didn’t want the Galatians to do something they’d regret, and in this podcast we will talk about what it was and why it would be ultimately regrettable.
Yes I am going to talk about Batman and the Bible in this podcast. There was just something about Galatians 4 that rang true with the story of Bruce Wayne and I just had to go there. Join me. #batman
Has anyone ever called you “foolish?” I’m sure it didn’t make you feel great. In Galatians 3 we see Paul using this word to describe the Galatians…but why? To understand better, in this podcast we will compare the other times the word “foolish” appears in the New Testament. Was Paul berating them or just trying to make a point?
Have you ever had to call someone out for being two-faced? In this podcast we will see not only Paul’s desire to make sure he’s on the right track but also call out others (even those in high leadership positions) for their shenanigans.
Have you ever worked hard on doing something right, only to have someone come behind you and mess up all your hard work? In Galatians chapter 1, Paul is faced with a similar situation. He has taught the true gospel, but others who came later to the Galatian churches were teaching wrongly. In this podcast we will see how Paul reminded the Galatians of some important details, hopefully getting Galatia back on track.
Father Knows Best. The writer of Proverbs 4 gives instructions to his sons. We can find out what we are truly made of, or rather what we've absorbed when we are put under pressure.
The book of Nahum is a hidden gem. In this podcast we will look at Chapter 1, discovering what it says about who God is, what He does, what He will do, and even nature's response to His very presence. All of this is wrapped in a proclamation against the Assyrian capital city, Nineveh (yes, that Nineveh).
“In Jerusalem, and in Jude’s and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Jesus is talking about spreading the good news, making disciples everywhere. In this podcast we will look at what this looks like for you and I locally, regionally, and globally.
In Bible study, the address refers to the specific location a piece of information is located in the Bible. In this podcast, we talk about why knowing the address is so important and how it can deepen our relationship with God. Part of the “What do you mean by that?” Series.
Many times Christians speak in words they know but outsiders are left scratching their heads. “Sin? What do you mean by that?” It’s my hope that after listening to this podcast, you will be able to answer that question.
From a street corner, a protester’s sign can be seen “We’re ALL God’s Children!” Shouts of support for the cause for which they are gathering, bringing God to side with them. I wonder who are “God’s children?” To find out, I decided to read the Bible. In this podcast I share what I discovered and what the scripture says we should do about it.
The 4th of July is Independence Day in the U.S. It’s main theme is Freedom. What does the Bible say about freedom and authority trusted to ensure it?
Have you ever signed a graduate’s card, giving them some sage advice and wisdom? Paul finishes off his letter to Titus with 4 tips to help him accomplish is goals in the churches in Crete. In this podcast we will see how they also apply to us today.
Ever wondered what God requires of you and me? “To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” In this podcast we will observe scripture’s advice about humility and pride.
Many times in life, we wander around not know what we are suppose to be doing. In this podcast, we will look at the specific roles for the believers in the Christian churches in Crete. We will also explore in what way they needed one another to fulfill their own roles.
A young man left is a country, potentially foreign to him is tasked with a big job: appoint leaders of the churches in Crete. In this podcast we look at Paul’s instructions to Titus concerning leadership. What struggles did Titus face and what false teachings did he and others have to correct or silence? Titus 1 has you covered.
Here’s my “hot take” on holiness. Holiness doesn’t happen by accident. It takes a combination of God’s plans and man’s obedience. Want to know how we get here? Listen to this podcast.
Do you feel weighed down with the demands of “bringing people to Jesus?” What if it were simple and we make it way too complicated? In this podcast we will see how Jesus connects with a person and draws her closer to the truth about himself. Her life change will change the lives of others around her.
What does “One People blessing our community” really mean? In this podcast we will look at what Jesus and his disciples did to bless others and also understand what One important thing is connected to blessing.
Have you ever said, “my heart just wasn’t in it…” That’s an idiom. In this podcast we will look at the “hearts” of Jonah, Nineveh, and God as reveal from the book of Jonah. What motivated them? And how can we have a changed heart?
In this podcast, we will answer the question, “is unity something we should pursue?” If not, what ought we pursue?
Over a year ago, the USA/Canada Region of the Church of the Nazarene sought to understand God’s Vision for ministry in our present day and age. We know the mission: “Make Christlike Disciples In the Nations” but what is it specifically that God has call and equipped us for? (Original message written by Pastor Tim Fisher, Crossroads Community Church. Edited for local context and presented by Pastor Matt Angell of Viroqua Nazarene. Original manuscript used with permission.)
If all you had was a brief bumper sticker or text message, would you know how to tell them about Easter, why we celebrate it, and why Jesus SO important? Through today’s message, we will unlock the purpose of Easter and how we might concisely share that with someone.
Have you ever looked at a stump and thought, “there’s still life in that thing!” In this podcast we will look at God’s hope for a seemingly dead stump of Jesse. The hope that rose in on a donkey to much fanfare on something the church calls “Palm Sunday.” (Isaiah 11)
Have you ever smacked your thumb while hammering a nail? Did you blame the tool for this? In Isaiah (and 2 Kings) there are a couple of tools God uses to correct his children, but what happens to the tool when the tool talks back?
Let’s face it, poverty is a problem. But can anything be done about it? Are we even able to do something? In this podcast we will look at “World Wisdom” and what it says about disparity amongst people and how God’s Word would have us respond.
Fear is a four letter word. It stops us from trusting and it is the symptom of being untrusting. In this message, we look at two Kings and how they responded to the directions of God as given to them through the prophey Isaiah. (intro clip from "Isaiah" by Spoken Gospel www.spokengospel.com)
The Lord's Prayer. This prayer pattern that Jesus gives his disciples and down through the ages, gives to us through the reading of his Word, it is something that King Ahaz was missing. It wasn’t and isn’t just a religious chore, but rather a reflection of a clear relationship between a person and God.
(Opening clip from "Isaiah" by Spoken Gospel.)
Isaiah is a BIG book of the Bible. It has 66 chapters and can feel overwhelming to begin reading. In this 4-part series we will hit four highlights essential to understanding the book of Isaiah as a whole. But why was Isaiah chosen to deliver this message? Listen in as we discover what made him the Right Prophet at the Right Time. We will also look at Jesus as the Perfect Prophet for All Time.
“What do you want to be when you grow up?” We have all heard that question before, but really is it the best question? In this podcast we look at Samuel’s call and and learn what he did to make himself available to hear God’s voice best.
Do you want to be healed? Maybe it’s physical or maybe something a bit more nuanced, but we all want to be well and stay well. In this podcast we will look at how one dad pursued a plan to get Jesus’ healing touch and how Jesus surprised the man by establishing is own plan.
Do you think your story’s over? Your ending is written and all your poor choices have led to the “not surprise ending?” In this podcast we will look at the story of King Ahab and discover how his story ended differently than we expected. Perhaps giving us hope that there is still something more to write.
Are you named after someone? A distant relative or famous person perhaps? Would you think you were destined to fall prey to the same struggles they had, make the same mistakes? In this podcast we look at the person that Mary, Jesus’ mother, was named after and how they made some poor choices in life. Then we will address the question, “does someone else’s past have to define our present or future?”
Dramatic demonstrations grab our attention, elicit emotions and motivate people into action. But could a dramatic demonstration by a iconic villain change your mind about him? In this podcast we look at the oft skipped backstory of King Saul’s rise to power in 1 Samuel 9-11.
Has anyone ever given you a task and you thought, “that’s not possible! I can’t do that! I’m not equipped, experienced or strong enough to complete that!” Jesus once told a woman to “go and sin no more.” If it were not possible, why would he have said it? In this podcast we will look at what the church of the Nazarene teaches about holiness and sanctification. Also we will identify a misunderstanding some people have had concerning John Wesley’s teachings on the subject.
Times in life that bring us down will come. What we choose to focus on, whether it is our sorrows or God’s promises will make all the difference. This podcast is inspired by God’s promises from scripture and the Rend Collective song “True in the Light.”
Will 2023 be the same old thing for you or will you begin your Fresh Start in Jesus Christ today? In this New Year’s podcast, we will be studying Romans 11:11-24 and talking about botany! #grafting
This service is a recap of sorts of the advent season. Unlike our other podcasts, you will hear the service in its entirety (save for a special duet “Noel” that could not be recorded and published). Songs are led by Pastor Matt Angell and flute is played by Jacki Angell. Responsive readings are from the “Sing to the Lord” Nazarene Hymnal. (Selections from Isaiah and Malachi.)
Celebrating Christmas is fun and all, but what is the reason for the season? Many people need evidence to convince them or lead them to the truth. God is not shy to provide and He uses us as one of the best sources of evidence for Christmas.
Jesus was called the Light by the Apostle John. Jesus even claimed the title himself. In this podcast, we will look at 3 important attributes of light and how Jesus, the Light of the World, spiritual fulfills those for us.
What would you do if you were all powerful? Would you be benevolent or rule with an iron first? In this podcast we will discover what the Son of God did with is all-powerful nature for the sake of the world.
At Christmastime, we celebrate the birthday of Jesus, The Christ. Do we sing him “Happy Birthday?” In this podcast we will explore 3 songs in the New Testament that are directly connected with Jesus’ birth. We will uncover the singers’ motivation and learn what to do in response to Jesus’ birthday.
Do you want a blessed life? Sure, we all do. When do you want it? Later? No we want it now! In this podcast we will dig in to Luke 6:27-38 and see what practical directions Jesus gave for Living a Blessed Life, Now!
Are you keeping Jesus at arms length? You just might be missing out on a deeper layer of blessing.
Have you ever felt really blessed? Hope you shared it online or it didn’t happen. (Just kidding.) In this podcast we look at what Jesus revealed about what it means to be blessed and identify who might seem blessed but really aren’t. Are you #SoBlessed ?
How much grace do you want? Like ALOT? How about…just enough? In this last podcast on Discipleship as a Journey of Grace, we will recap our journey, reflect on how each element of God’s grace makes us into a disciple of Christ and understand better the sufficient grace of God.
We need fuel for our car to go. What keeps our very life, our faith in Christ going every day, even in the tough times? God’s sustaining grace. In the podcast we will break down Acts 2:42-47 and discuss early church practices we ought to be back to emphasizing.
We believe God can work in the lives of believers through the power of the Holy Spirit in such definitive ways that we are no longer held captive to the residue and baggage of our lives. That is the beautiful optimism of Grace. That is what we mean when we say Sanctification.
Two stories of two men who seemed to be so different, but their common problem required a single solution: Jesus. In this podcast wise will look at sin as rebellion, enslavement, estrangement and how our Savior frees us, restores us and helps us down frost the throne of our hearts. Accompanies David Busic’s book, “Way Truth Life” Chapter 3
Discipleship. Christians May think the weight of this activity rests solely on their shoulders, and they bear the disappointment when they think they have failed. What if discipleship starts much sooner, before you or I ever begin to guide another? What if God’s grace was on the scene before any of us were born? A grace that sneaks up on you.
Have you ever know someone who was so interesting, so charismatic that you would follow them into anything? In this podcast we will look at what a compelling invitation can do for a person on their Journey of Grace. This series is rooted in the book, “Way Truth Life” by Dr. David Busic.
In this podcast we will look at what Jesus said about protecting the most vulnerable among us. We will also discuss ways we can make the devil unwelcome in our lives, homes, churches and communities.
If someone gives you a gift, catches you off guard, what do you do? Are you embarrassed by their generosity? Do you think of a way to repay their kindness? Sometimes the most uncomfortable this is getting what we don’t deserve.
Do you ever feel guilty for someone else’s wrong? Should you and does that feeling actually help anything. Join us as we look at the effects of guilt, sin and racism in “the sins of the Father.”
In this podcast we will look at self-defense in the Bible. I share insights from a form law enforcement office I interviewed for this podcast. We discussed self-defense, gun laws and the constitution. He also pointed me to passages of scripture where weapons were used in self-defense.
There are no shortages of opinions concerning human sexuality. On this podcast we identify what Jesus, the Old Testament & New Testament writers said about this topic. What do we do if what God’s word actually says contradicts our common practices within the fellowship of believers?
To discuss the UnComfortable topics in this series, we must first have a baseline. In this podcast we will look at what our guide is for living life, our “Port Authority” if you will. This podcast also features a short skit with one of my kids.
Do you usually scroll passed uncomfortable topics on social media or news sites? Me too. Bible the Bible actually addresses some of these uncomfortable topics and we shouldn’t shy away from them. In this podcast we look at the sacrificial nature of discipleship.
In this podcast we will examine…a bowl of fruit. In Amos 8-9 we see warning of consequences coming for God’s people. What do we do if we determine we are in a similar period of spiritual famine?
Are you incapable of being corrected or reformed? Or are you able to be inspired with hope? In this podcast we will look at Colossians 1:1-14 and hear what Paul had to say to the Colossians and still says to us today.
Lighthouse, steeples and flags (oh my!) In this 4th of July podcast, we will dig in to the problem that comes when you lift high a people, structure, or even a banner. God-sized intervention may be required.
Humility is not something we naturally gravitate toward. Unfortunately if we don’t choice it, it will find us. Even in this recording, I was humbled by some corrections. I reference Romans 14, but the scripture was actually from Romans 10. Also I say “2002” instead of 2022 at a certain point in the message. Glad to know my congregation was listening and willing to let me know of these mistakes.
Names are wonderful things, but they can also back us into a corner. With great names comes great responsibility. Abram found this out as the “exalted father” received a name change: Abraham: father of many.
“I’d follow what he’d say if He’d only reveal it to me…” In this podcast we will answer “how can I be receptive to a revelation from God,” “what does it sound/look like” and “what do I do with it?”
God’s directions are only as good as they are listened to and followed through with. In this podcast we will compare Jonah and Jesus. Is it “my will be done” or “thy will be done?”
“God keep me safe on this car trip. Lord protect me from bad test results and medical slip ups.” If you’ve ever prayed something like this, you’ve prayed for the Lord’s protection. In this podcast we will look at a variety of protection prayers, the context of protection prayers in the Bible and how to approach safety in an unsafe world.
Did you click on this podcast just to find out about clickbait? In Genesis 38 Judah gives into clickbait and we learn 3 important nuggets of wisdom. Number 3 will blow you away!
In this podcast we look at 3 unsung mothers from the Bible and trying to understand their story from their perspective. Each one gives us a take away for our life.
So you really trust God? Trust in what He has said and what He says about you? In this podcast, we will look at two prime examples of doubt sowing in the Bible and how we might combat it in our daily life.
The podcast starts a 3 part series on Fake News in the Bible. It might surprise you that there is a record of bribery and intentional misinformation in the gospel of Matthew. But will we conclude that the Bible is fake news because there is fake news in the bible?
Easter Sunday. The day we celebrated Christ’s resurrection. What if I told you there was a resurrection story in the Bible that happened about 3 days prior? In this podcast we will look at this story from scripture and see how it reflects the challenges a Christian faces.
Important, straightforward questions require and deserve straightforward answers. In this podcast we will observe various proclamations about Jesus, starting with the triumphal entry. Even Jesus’ enemies knew who he was and were compelled to say so.
In the podcast we will examine the Voice of God through the Old and New Testaments. What does it sound like or what does it look like? What are doing that might stop up our spiritual ears from Hearing the Voice Of God?
Over the past two years, the whole world had to learn to do things in a way they we’re not used to. In this podcast we will hear how the USA/Canada and Mesoamerica Regions changed the way they do ministry to keep sending and training missionaries. We also discuss what it looks like for you and I to be missionaries in our own home towns.
Part of our PRAY series, we hear about a wonderful ministry in Peru, South America having to do with boats. Then take a tour of God showing us what great things has has done and can do with just a simple floating vessel.
In this podcast recording, Pastor Matt brings the messages as part of the community Lenten series “Open My Life Lord.” What area of your life do you need to open up to God? God can do so much more with us if we would just open up our hands.
The Eurasia region is on everyone’s mind right now. With the war in Ukraine and Russia, what would the Nazarene churches from those and surrounding countries have us pray for them? The answer might surprise you.
This week, Asia-Pacific region comes into focus as Pastor Matt unravels a bit about what people in Australia, the Philippines, and Myanmar have been dealing with this past year. Hear of generous gifts sent to help others in great need. Shatter your expectations of missions as we join ministry already in progress, rather than ride in on a white steed to save the day.
Give Peace a chance. Many of us have peace on our mind today as various world areas are warring. But the peace of the world, our idea of peace may not always line up with God’s peace. Let’s learn a bit more about the missional work in Africa Region and the biblical concept we are praying for that region: Peace.
What do leaders need most? I know, we all enjoy a good rhetorical question. I believe the answer is Wisdom and Guidance. We will take a look at scripture to see how we are called to pray for our leaders and learn about some actual leaders in the Church of the Nazarene that you and I can pray for this week.
“I’m no prophet, I’m no preacher” you might say. Well, they all needed 3 things and these three thing relate very much to you and me. Acknowledging their call, taking Action, and helping others Apply God’s message to their lives. Did I say 3? I meant 3 plus 1. There is 1 top thing they all had that we need to have too to be successful in introducing people to their fresh start in Jesus Christ. What’s that 1 thing? Listen and find out.
Personal loss has always been around, however it seems that we have a heightened awareness of death and dying in the past few years. How can or should we deal with it? Ezekiel dealt with his own personal loss in a strange way...for a divine purpose. King David had his own way of processing his loss and Jesus may have surprised a few people with his reaction to the death of his close friend. It all points to Good Grief.
Plants are all around us. Well, maybe if you look outside your window during the winter season they are all covered with snow. But they are there. They are important. They also make a great illustration as far as expressing biblical truths. The question we face in this podcast: Plants produce something, but is what is produced any good? Furthermore, is the plant producing anything at all? Well evaluate our own spiritual condition and what it is producing. Perhaps find the best way to live out our "Di-Vine Purpose."
White Washing. A painting technique used in external and even internal property design, it has been around for a very long time. So much so that it even became and idiom or expression meaning something deeper. Through a couple of passages in Ezekiel and one in Matthew, we'll see how white wash was connected to rebuking those doing wrong.
You ever noticed how if there is a hole in the wall, someone put it there? Misplaced hammer blow, door handle smashed into dry wall, remodeling team decided that wall just needed to go. Lots of reasons for holes in walls. Between Ezekiel, Saul/Paul, and Jesus, they had and used them for very different purposes. Join us for Echos of Ezekiel. (This podcast features sounds effect demonstrations! You'll want to listen to the end.)
What would it be like to have God asked you to eat something gross. What would you do? Would you object? You might know the "The Five Second Rule." If you drop something edible on the floor, but pick it up in less than five seconds, it's like it never happened. No germs or virus' transferred at all. Well, so says the "rule" but when put to the test, the dropped food still gets germs and such crawling all over it! Gross! Ezekiel was instructed to do something gross and he responded clearly to God. That concept echos later in the Book of Acts.
Ezekiel had experience with God talking directly to him, calling him to do seemingly crazy things for God’s purpose. God used Ezekiel to make a point to the Children of Israel of his day. But the words and imagery God used in Ezekiel’s day were not just for that generation. They echoed, rippling through time to the era of the New Testament. We will look at New Testament connections to these lessons God told through Ezekiel and how they still ring true to us today. This Podcast will look at the topics of Obedience, Spirit-filled Empowerment, and Accountability.
Two things seem to linger after the Christmas celebration: Wrappings and Returns. Wrappings as in left over paper, hastily torn off the concealed present and Returns, that thing that no one looks forward to doing but are sometimes willing in order to actually get what they want. What if I told you these festive illustrative concepts will help us understand something deeper about the Christmas Story? Well that's what I will be talking about in this podcast. Join me and learn why the wrappings matter. And also why we shouldn't just ignore the parts of Christmas that are "less than desirable."
In this service we walk through all five candles of the Advent Wreath: Hope, Peace, Joy, Love, and the Christ's Candle. Join us for the Movements of Advent.
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
[This recording is the worship service from Dec 19, 2021 at Viroqua Church of the Nazarene. I hope you join in on the worship. If you find there are elements missing to the recording, you can find them posted on the blog page. https://viroquanaz.home.blog ]
In life, words stick to us...negative things we internalize. Whether we thought them or someone said them about us...we became "Labeled." In this Podcast we look at overcoming Labels, that last of the three Ghosts of Christmas Past. Remember, we need to deal with the Ghosts of our past...here in our present so we can have a Future (a good one!)
We've heard the expression "shame on you!" But what does that do to a person? It messes with their Identity.
In this podcast we will look at the difference between guilt and shame and how the scripture points us to Overcome Shame.
(Big thanks to Life.Church for developing and sharing this series with churches.)
For many, the most wonderful time of the year isn’t so wonderful. A painful past or our own insecurities can overshadow the joy we’re supposed to be feeling. What if this year could look different? It’s time to let God heal the Ghosts of Christmas Past.
This episode all all about Overcoming Offense. Offenses Big or small can ruin our Christmas season and our lives...if we let them.
(Original series by Life.Church and provided through Open Church Network)
Do you have any Thanksgiving traditions? For many families, it is a tradition to watch the "Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" special. In this podcast, we will look at the biblical topic of giving thanks using this film as a frame of reference. We'll answer the questions: 1. Thankful for what? 2. Thankful to whom? 3. What if my circumstance stink?
We've just completed a series on the Core beliefs of Christianity. The Basics of Faith. But what's this "Church of the Nazarene" thing all about? In this podcast I hope you express the 3 core values of the Church of the Nazarene and perhaps give you a better idea of who we are and why we do what we do. I want to give credit to Dr. Scott Sherwood for the message that inspired me to share this one with you.
Christianity is so name because of its core belief in Christ...but who is Christ Jesus? In this podcast we will look at 4 core things about Jesus Christ that can't be removed from Christianity.
What was your first exposure to the concept of Heaven and Hell? Was it someone knocking on your front door, asking you questions and handing you pamphlets? Maybe someone shouting scripture from a bullhorn on a street corner? Even though all Christians haven't done the best job at consistently explaining the afterlife, it still is important to the basics of the faith. Who better to turn to for guidance on the truth of the afterlife than Jesus himself? In this podcast we look at 3 teachings of Jesus on the Afterlife and make some observations on how we can share that message with those who have yet to accept Christ.
You've probably heard of the bible...but what is it? Some dusty tome set on your mantle place? A family heirloom that no one touches? Maybe you're not quite sure what to think about it. Christians over time have turned to it for understanding, but is it more than just an instruction manual for the "religious?" How was it put together and in what way is it still relevant to our daily lives? Journey with us as we look at this book so important to Christianity. The B-I-B-L-E.
We're looking at the basics of the Christian faith in this series, but none of that matters if you don't have faith. Dig into Hebrews 11 with me and see how others who've gone before us had faith, what that looked like. Also see how it worked out for him. Ultimately no one else's faith journey can give you you're own. You've got to make the choice yourself to trust fully in God.
Have you ever thought the Christian faith seemed too complicated? Well perhaps religious ceremony, garb and architecture have over shadowed the most basic of Christian faith beliefs, overwhelming people in the process. In this series we intend to look at the basics of the Christian faith in easy to understand and easy to relay terms. Using visual aids (see blog page https://viroquanaz.home.blog ) It is our goal to give believers the tools to share their faith and seekers the opportunity to learn more.
This session we focus on salvation.
Jeremiah makes a point in a big way in this chapter...but will the people "get" it?
Sometime it take a sudden, shocking noise to make us take notice of the judgement coming out way if change does not occur.
Tips on pottery and sermon illustrations straight from God himself. Who could ask for more? So Jeremiah didn't have the easiest job, proclaiming doom and exile on the people of Israel, but God sure was helpful to hand craft some visual aids to help get the point across.
Join us again as we look through Jeremiah 18, the properties of clay and how that connects to us today.
Jeremiah had some really great sermon illustrations just dumped into his lap. In this series we look at a few of them and connect the dots between the message given so long ago and the one God has for us today. It may be an immature question, but it connects to the message: "What did you bury under there?" listen to find out.
Do you work and work and work and wonder..."What good is all my work?"
Labor day is a day to celebrate and appreciate the U.S.'s labor workforce. But what does the bible say about Labor?
Picture this: A person gets their life all straightened out. They aren't doing the destructive things they once did, they can hold down a steady job, they're responsible, they seem happy to be free of a past burden. Then one day they CRASH and crash, Hard! They seem to be in worse condition than they were before their life changed. What went wrong?
Jesus addresses this in Matthew 12:43-45. We will attempt to find out the 3 things to be "Better off than Before" and not worse off than before.
King David, mighty slayer of Goliath and champion of the God of Israel. A man with integrity and military prowess. But not always. Certain circumstance led him to make a series of decision that were not in keeping with his public image. In this podcast we will look through the eyes of Uriah, the man most effected by David's poor and selfish decisions. We'll see what David was NOT and hear what he did when confronted with the truth. Sometimes dead men do tell tales.
Recorded 8.15.2021
Have you ever been in a disagreement with someone...and started to question their Christianity? No I'm sure you haven't. But some people experience this every day. One might think: "Christians don't have arguments! And if they did, one of them is wrong and needs to repent! They fell from grace!" Not all disagreements are clear cut and Acts 13 and 15 show us a "Sharp Disagreement" between Paul and Barnabas and what was the end result. Could something good or even positive come out of a disagreement between two believers? Can we Agree to Disagree...and it not be a sin?
This whole series has been about stumbling and falling in our relationship with God. We all are susceptible to it and some fall harder and further away than others. There was an "Odd Couple" in the book of Acts that fells hard, it killed them. What was their fatal misstep? Listen to today's podcast and find out. Also I'll give you 3 things to watch out for so you can avoid falling into the same trap they did.
Celebrated Hero or arrogant strongman? Samson has been well celebrated in children's bible stories, but when you take a look at his full story, it starts to make sense why he might get into a Big Hairy Mess.
This one is about the sensitive topic of suicide. Its unfortunate, for a very real situation that even those who follow Christ stumble, fall and stay down for the count. They lose all hope of recovery or reconciliation. One such example was Judas. This message delves into the mind and heart of Judas Iscariot with the intention of not walking down his same path.
This series was inspired by the song originally written and performed by dcTalk called, “What if I Stumble?” In life, whether you are a Christ-follower or not yet a Christian, you might have turning points in your life. Events that shape the direction of your future, how you react and respond to certain situations. Will you stand up and lead or fall in line and follow? In this series we will look at various people from the bible that had these crisis moments, look at how they got there, where they went next and what truth the scriptures specifically want us to hear concerning failing and falling in our attempts to live our lives for God.
Today we look at the life of Peter and his ultimate crisis of faith. That moment, recorded in the gospels where he denied Christ three times.
The Forth of July is all about Independence, right? What if I told you that rather than completely being Independent...our founding father and our fledgling country actually just shifted it's dependency? Yeah, It's true. But to whom and what did it shift that dependency when it Declared Independence from Great Britain? Is dependence on others truly a bad thing?
Rainbows. They are everywhere. On logos, cartoon ponies, and yes...even in the clouds following a rain shower. But what is "The Rain-Bow Connection"? Join us as we delve into not only what the rainbow is all about but what you should do when you see it. Genesis 6-9.
Title not intriguing enough for you? You might be familiar with this expression, "Who's your daddy?!" Someone dunks on you in basketball, defeats you in a video game, or is just plain rude. This expression has invaded our culture, but it is applicable to our scripture for today's podcast.
In John 8, Jesus has a conversation with some folks and the question at hand is: "Who's your Daddy?!" Jesus clearly claims his parentage (Spoiler alert: it's God.) But the folks persecuting him are a bit confused or in denial as to who their father is. More importantly, what makes one a child of a particular parent. Jesus tells us the answer.
Stars. Beautiful lights in the nights sky. The closest one to our planet warms us and gives us light during the day. Marvelous. But somewhere along the way, created things like the planets, sun, moon and various stars became something to revere. Something to base your life off. Something that controls your destiny. Or does it? In this podcast we will look at biblical and non-biblical texts, historical figures and scientific analysis on the topic of Astrology. In the end we hope to answer, "What is the fault in our stars?"
Have you ever met someone who was so convinced God wanted them to do a certain thing? Live a certain way? What do you think would happen if that person lost there conviction? Special guest speaker, Dr. Kevin Donley brings the message: Authenticity matters.
Have you ever had a good friend seem to try and hang up on you or end a conversation quicker than you’d like? I picture that's how the disciples felt when Jesus ascended into Heaven. But he did not leave them without a promise. The promise of real revival.
Acts 1:12-14; 2:1-41
In this message, we look back at the previous year in the life of our local church. We also look ahead to goals of this coming church year. Also, seek to see our story overlapping with the story of the Israelites in Isaiah 60.
Confrontation is uncomfortable, but necessary for change and growth. Many times in life we call this moment of confrontation a "Come to Jesus Moment." But why? What does Jesu have to do with it? What should we do when we actually sense Jesus calling us to com to him?
Main passage for this message from from Isaiah 55:1-13.
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Today, we get another type of interesting imagery used by Isaiah: motherhood. Isaiah was not only a prophet, he was a master poet. He turned words and phrases to not only keep his audience listening but also accurately express the spiritual, using these physical metaphors and similes. To understand what dots Isaiah is connecting here with these passages concerning motherhood, we have to ask the question, “What are the key elements of motherhood?”
Imagery is an amazing teaching tool. It can relate thoughts and feelings without words. Or words can paint pictures that the wise understand but the foolish do not. It can veil a warning in poetic threats. Imagery can make something imateral...like hope or joy more solid and easier to understand. Throughout the book of Isaiah, imagery is used to do all this and more. One specific type of imagery keeps coming up. It is imagery related to the growth of plants. Join us as we explore this imagery from Isaiah 11:1-16.
God wants me to do, what? How do I know I am hearing a call from God? In this episode, we will look at Isaiah's calling in Isaiah 6. We will also look into other prophets' calling stories for comparison. Discover the 3 things about the calling of God.
In the second part of our bible study series on Isaiah, we come to a passage concerning Judah's neighbor: the Moabites. Surprisingly enough, scripture seems empathetic with their plight even if it was their own actions or inactions that caused them to become refugees. How exactly was Judah supposed to help them and how can you and I be like Judah when those around us are "refugees?"
This is the beginning of a 7 part journey through the book of Isaiah. We are taking a bible study approach to this massive book, but we will cover the main parts...rather than all 66 chapters.
Our first message is all about two things that the people of Judah were dealing with: Their rebellious hearts and their tendency to worship wrongly.
No matter what one fasts from, the heart of the matter is making the willing decision to put God’s will ahead of our own. Today we are going to look at some examples from the Old Testament and the New Testament about fasting. We will also touch on the topic of Prayer, as it directly connects to fasting. Fasting without prayer is just a really peculiar diet.
Though the main thing that most people think about when they think about Lent is the prayer and fasting, I want to save those topics for another day. The intentional practices, or spiritual disciplines help us to focus our spirit on the sacred, the holy, the things of God. We can’t hope to succeed at connecting with God by fasting, praying, confessing or even fellowshipping with other believers unless we first Consecrate ourselves. That’s today’s focus: Consecration. It’s a fancy word for sure, but one that has a simple meaning.