Winnipeg Evangelical Free Church: Recent Episodes
Winnipeg Evangelical Free Church
Remember your leaders who have spoken Gods word to you. As you carefully observe the outcome of their lives, imitate their faith.Hebrews 13:7The author of Hebrews shifts focus in the middle of chapter 13 to address a reality for the church he is writing to: leadership. There were leaders in the midst of the church who were sharing God's Word with them and helping them to live as faithful followers of Jesus. This reality of having leaders bears similarity with other environments in our lives; we are rarely autonomous in an absolute degree.Therefore, it serves us well to remember those leaders and see the ways that they are living their faith in our midst.As we remember, we are further encouraged to obey and pray for those leaders. Doing so benefits both the leader and the follower as each pursue Christ in their lives.
Let brotherly love continue.Hebrews 13:1This next portion of Scripture flows immediately out of our previous week's text.Since we have the wonderful inheritance and kingdom secured by Jesus, we proceeded in gratitude and "serve God acceptably" (Hebrews 12:28). Serving God acceptably necessarily involves love towards other people. Therefore, this week we see the ways that we are encouraged to express love towards others in a variety of contexts that we may find ourselves in.When we do this, we will see the ways that God helps us, resulting in the removal of our fears of other people.
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful. By it, we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and awe,for our God is a consuming fire.Hebrews 12:2829Our text this week focusses on the differences between the oppressive feeling old covenant and the liberating experience of the new covenant. We no longer come to Mount Sinai where our very lives hang in the balance between our ability to do right and wrong. Instead, we arrive to Mount Zion, the place where God has already mediated our forgiveness to Jesus Christ. The author of Hebrews notes that since we receive such a kingdom that cannot be shaken anymore by the effects of sin, we are to be thankful and serve God acceptably.
No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.Hebrews 12:11The challenges and difficulties that we experience as followers of Jesus can wear us down. They can make us discouraged and question if God even loves us.From this perspective, a Christian may be tempted to find ways to avoid suffering and, if things become even more difficult, tempted even to abandon the faith.However, the author of Hebrews is aiming to encourage his readers into a perspective that the suffering they endure produces something precious in their lives and confirms their heritage a children of God. Our suffering means something to God and for us.
Like a marathon, the Christian life can feel impossibly hard to finish. When youre tired and weary, the temptation to quit running and drop out of the race is real. Hebrews 12:1-2 aims to encourage those of us who find ourselves dragging our feet, distracted from the goal, and discouraged by the difficulty to keep going, keep progressing, and keep charging forward in the Christian race.
Now without faith it is impossible to please God, since the one who draws near to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.Hebrews 11:6This verse is one of the most explicit calls to faith in God that we have in the Bible.The entirety of chapter 11 is both a call to maintain the faith that we have in God and a variety of descriptions of how this faith is maintained. We see in the lives of God's people what the genuine and true outcome of faith is. Each character experienced a particular blessing, but faith in Jesus Christ goes beyond any blessing that we are able to experience on this earth. Instead, faith draws us into something more meaningful for the rest of eternity.
But we are not those who draw back and are destroyed, but those who have faith and are saved.Hebrews 10:39This concluding line of our passage from this week speaks to both the warning and promise for followers of Christ who are wavering in their commitment to Jesus Christ. The author of Hebrews implore his readers to maintain the fellowship of believers and their obedience to the scriptures in light of the singular and complete sacrifice of Jesus. To entertain a life otherwise is only to anticipate a judgement for the one who rejects the gospel.But this need not be our conclusion or determination. This week, we explore the words of this text to see how we may keep faith and experience salvation.
...he has inaugurated for us a new and living way...Hebrews 10:20We have considered the numerous ways that Jesus is superior to other ways to know God and other ways to deal with our sins.His work is supreme and allows us, in faith, to have fellowship and relationship with God.Now, in light of that perfect sacrifice, Jesus has inaugurated or established a new way to live.This week's passage explains what that living way is and describes how we are to walk in that way as we continue to trust in Christ.
Guest speaker is Jon Fuller, Evangelical Fellowship of CanadaLooking at the city under siege as a metaphor for the pressures on our world, and the lepers outside the wall as a model for what is required as we get involved in missions today.
Since the law has only a shadow of the good things to come, and not the reality itself of those things, it can never perfect the worshipers by the same sacrifices they continually offer year after year.Hebrews 10:1Over the past couple weeks, we have been able to see the way the author of Hebrews highlights the superiority of Jesus' sacrifice for us.While it is important for us to know how much better the sacrifice was, sometimes we lose sight of what benefit this is for those who trust in Jesus and his sacrifice. The Old Testament law was something that pointed to wonderful realities but could only accomplish a hint or fragment of those realities. The law was not able to perfect or complete the people of God, but Jesus is death on the cross was. This week, we explore what perfection and good things come to those who trust in this sacrifice.
And just as it is appointed for people to die onceand after this, judgmentso also Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.Hebrews 9:2728As we have explored the way Jesus is the agent of our salvation, we need to remember that his work is complete and final. It will be a temptation for us to revert back to old ways of performing religion to experience the salvation that our souls crave. Instead, these words remind us that Jesus bore our sins in a complete and final matter, so that we do not need to slip back into empty religious practices that do not fulfil God's law or desires. May we continue to put our trust and reliance on the good and complete work of Jesus and look forward to the salvation that he will bring to us upon his return.
The new religion in our world calls people to a quest for their authentic self that is pure and good and to repudiate any external identity that is imposed on the self from the outside. The biblical narrative of a Holy, Good God who created male and female to flourish but who chose to rebel and go their own way, bringing sin, evil and impurity into this world sounds scandalous. However, the author of Hebrews shows us how the biblical narrative and Gods redemptive plan have always been the best news for those who choose to cease their rebellion and approach a Holy, Perfect, Pure God. Hebrews 9:1-14 shows us that only Jesus can redeem our authentic self, showing us three key truths.
He is not here. For he has risen, just as he said.Matthew 28:6The news of the resurrection of Jesus is the greatest news that can be shared in the world.Since Jesus rose from the grave just like he promised, the sacrifice of Jesus on Friday is proved to be valid and lasting for the forgiveness of sins. However, not everyone responds to this news in the same way.Matthew's Gospel highlights the varying ways that people respond to the resurrection of Jesus and what can follow from those responses.
But Jesus has now obtained a superior ministry, and to that degree he is the mediator of a better covenant, which has been established on better promises. Hebrews 8:6A superior ministry, a better covenant, built on better promises.This is the kind of ministry that Jesus performs in our lives as our great high priest.In our text this week, we are reminded that Jesus' work is taking place in two key arenas: in the heaven and in our hearts.By ministering in heaven, Jesus works out our salvation before God's very presence.By working in our hearts, Jesus ensures that his followers both genuinely know him, but that that are people who have been cleansed from sin from the inside out.This is a better arrangement, a better covenant, than how God's people were living previously.
For this is the kind of high priest we need: holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens.Hebrews 7:26Our text this week comes back to the idea that Jesus remains our great and merciful high priest; an agent or servant of God's promise that he would save his people who have sinned and who need a Saviour.These words elaborate on the kind of Saviour that we need.One who is set apart from all other would-be 'messiahs'; one who carries no blame towards God or others; one who has not been tainted by sin or the influence of evil; one who stands apart from sinful people; one who has been approved by God and exalted into the heavens.While this is the priest that we need, we can sometimes look to rely on something or someone else for the salvation that we need.This week's passage reshapes and reminds us where our reliance needs to rest.
We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.Hebrews 6:19In last week's sermon, we were encouraged to press into the maturing work that God is trying to do in our lives. In following Jesus, we are invited to demonstrate our assurance of hope through the practice of diligence in imitating other people of faith in their belief and perseverance. This kind of expression of hope allows us to remain anchored in a tumultuous and challenging world. But what exactly are we hoping in? Even as we seek to imitate others who have expressed faith, we can potentially lose sight of where the true nature of our hope should be.In this week's passage, we explore the content of our continuing hope so that we can truly have an anchor in the midst of uncertainty, doubt, or hardship.
Solid food is for the maturefor those whose senses have been trained to distinguish between good and evil.Hebrews 5:14In our text this week, the author of Hebrews begins a call for his readers to move towards maturity in their faith. This maturity comes out of the revelation of who Jesus is and the ways that he is greater than all things.The problem was that the author identifies that his readers are too lazy to attend to the message that he is wanting to give. They keep going back to the milk: the basic, elementary truths about Jesus. So, extending from the ideas that have been already spoken against (hardening one's heart, responding to the voice of God), we are invited to seek maturity in Christ because it will not accomplish anything if we just continue to reacquaint ourselves with basic teachings about Jesus. We are to mature and continue in a growing assurance of our faith in him.
Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavensJesus the Son of Godlet us hold fast to our confession.Hebrews 4:14In our text this week, Jesus is described as a great high priest. Dealing with a priest is not something that we normally encounter, in part because of all that Jesus accomplished as our high priest. These words remind us that Jesus ministered to us in our greatest need to satisfy the law's requirement to deal with sin. If sin could not be dealt with, then humanity would have no way to relate to God since our sin would remain an obstacle. However, we have a great high priest who has worked on our behalf. The conclusion is that we are able to hold fast or persevere in our confession of faith.We owe Jesus our very lives and so our entire lives can be spent on him.
Therefore, since the promise to enter his rest remains, let us beware that none of you be found to have fallen short.Hebrews 4:1Rest can feel like a chore. When can a person truly ever rest? This week's passage builds off of the previous section that called us not to harden our hearts to God's voice. If we remain sensitive and responsive to him, there is the enjoyment of his rest. In these opening words, we are called to 'beware' that we do not fall short of that rest.'Beware'is a strong word that indicates severity if we ignore entering into God's rest. But how will we know if we have fallen short? How can we perceive that we have entered the rest of God in a way that is distinguished from the nation of Israel who hardened their hearts towards God? We will explore these indicators and see how we may, ourselves, ensure that we have entered into God's res
Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.Hebrews 3:78As Jesus is shown to be greater than any spiritual influence and greater than any authority, we have also seen how he enters into our experience as a merciful and faithful high priest. Our passage this week continues this theme of being drawn into relationship with Christ. We are told to exercise care so that we will not have evil or unbelieving hearts that turn away from God. Instead, we are to continue to encourage each other to respond to the voice of Jesus as he redeems us and does his work as our faithful high priest.
Why did Jesus become Human? As we continue our series into Hebrews, we reach this turning point - If Jesus is greater than the angels, why become lower than them? In this message we will explore Hebrews 2:14-18 and touch on the incarnation, and three key reasons why Christs humility gives us hope in what lies ahead.
For this reason, we must pay attention all the more to what we have heard, so that we will not drift away.Hebrews 2:1As we have considered Jesus as greater than any other spiritual influence, the author of Hebrews calls for us to pay attention to the things that we have heard so that we will not drift away. This is the first of several warnings in the book of Hebrews; warnings that are designed to call for personal evaluation and recommitment to one's faith in Jesus Christ.What follows from this warning are the reasons why this great gift of salvation must be attended to with diligence.These reasons distill down to the authority that Jesus commands.As Jesus Christ is higher than any other spiritual being, he is also greater than any spiritually authority. Since all things are subjected to him, we are invited to subject ourselves to him, thereby relating to Jesus as the one who has been crowned with glory and honour.
So he became superior to the angels, just as the name he inherited is more excellent than theirs.Hebrews 1:4Jesus is greater than any other spiritual being. But this opening chapter of Hebrews wants to give assurances to these Jewish believers that Jesus remains worth their faith and attention. The author references times past when God revealed his Word to the people through the prophets.But now, Jesus is the one through whom God gives us his Word.Jesus is the one who is exalted. Jesus is the one who is praiseworthy.In the past, angels would also do the legwork to convey God's messages, but this is no longer the case.The author of Hebrews wants his readers to have assurance that Jesus is greater than any spiritual influence that they may have relied on in the past.And because we rely on Jesus now for God's truth and revelation, we no seek out spiritual influences that do not affirm the Lordship and majesty of Jesus Christ.
The Lord is my portion; I have promised to keep your words.Psalm 119:57As we enter a new year, we turn our attention to the wonderful gift of God's Word as our guide for life and testimony of his faithful love. Psalm 119 is an extended celebration of how God's word shapes, guides, and helps us in our ways. This stanza articulates our shared commitments to keep God's words in this new year. These commitments are essential to make on a regular basis so that we are suitably oriented in the ways that we follow God's will and desires.
We see from this weeks passage (Gen. 3:7-13) that Adam and Eve essentially have three responses to being caught in sin. These are the oldest responses to sin, and I think if you check your own life, youll see that these are still the three most common responses to sin, shame, fear, and guilt. Thankfully, God had a plan.
What is it that makes an owl wise? What is it that makes the wise men or magi in the Christmas story wise? An exploration of Matthew 2:1-12 reveals that their diligent search for a king ended with an epiphany experience. They were prompted to worship a baby boy who was not only king of the Jews, but also king of the universe. The text provides some sage advice for those who wish to be wise. Perhaps the magi have an aha moment waiting for all those who are on a pilgrimage toward wisdom.
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; faithful love and truth go before you.Happy are the people who know the joyful shout; Lord, they walk in the light from your face.Psalm 89:1415In this lengthy psalm, we hear the celebrations of God's love for his people. It's the circumstances and challenges of our lives that make a loving God seem like a difficult idea to maintain. Throughout these verses, the writer considers the difficulty that God's people find themselves in and even questions the promises that God had made in the past. But we are able to rely on his steadfast love - on the promise that his love will continue in our lives.
Restore our fortunes, Lord, like watercourses in the Negev.Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy.Psalm 126:45Joy can seem like a difficult reality to walk in. Sometimes all we have is the memory of joy past and long for this joy to return. This psalm recalls joyful times for the people of God and looks ahead to anticipate how God will restore this joy. Yet, we must sometimes be patient to see joy come to fruition while we remain faithful along the way.
Lord, you showed favor to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob. You forgave your peoples guilt; you covered all their sin.Psalm 85:12This week's text is a call for God to bring peace into the land and into the peoples lives. There are deep descriptions of tumultuous circumstances that are invading the writer and his people. There is a knowledge that peace only comes in the salvation that God provides. God restores peace with his people by bringing his love and truth.But it is also contingent upon God's people to listen to his words and not return to foolish ways (see Psalm 85:8). This is how God's peace is fostered in our hearts and lives.
Restore us, Lord, God of Armies; make your face shine on us, so that we may be saved.Psalm 80:19This is the first Sunday of Advent; a Sunday when we focus on hope. Psalm 80 is a prayer of hope. It is a prayer that anticipates and invites the working of God in the midst of brokenness. But the focus of hope is not in the mere restoration of material wealth or prosperity. The writer's hope is that God's face would shine on them; allowing them to experience salvation from what they were going through in the moment, but also from their own waywardness. There is a hint of turning away and this Psalm helps us to see the ways that Jesus restores hope that had perhaps waned because of difficulty. It is through Jesus that we experience the knowing of God that gives us a forward perspective; something that had been lost because of sin and brokenness.
Now he told them a parable on the need for them to pray always and not give up.Luke 18:1As we near the conclusion of the Parables series, we consider the perspective of steadfast prayer. Jesus had just spoken to the disciples about his return that would take place after his resurrection. There will be difficulties and challenges for the followers of Jesus. Jesus is encouraging his disciples to pray and not to give up. In the context, we see that justice is the primary focus of prayer.When do you feel that justice is needed in your life? How do you want God to answer that prayer? How often do you approach him in faith on this matter? These are the questions that this parable draws us into as we aim to be seeking God in our prayers.
Are you jealous because Im generous?Matthew 20:15These are the words of the landowner in this week's parable. It is his response to those who believe they should be paid more than they were given because they worked for a longer amount of time then workers who were hired much later in the day by the landowner. The landowner informs these workers that he has the right to give what he feels is best to all of the people who are in his employ. The landowner also notes that he is not treating the workers who are there the longest unfairly. Instead, he reminds them that he has given them what they agreed on and that they should be pleased with their wages.As we interact with this parable, we are called into evaluation of our own motivations for why we serve the Lord and how we regard others in the kingdom. This is not a parable that deals with salvation, but rather life in the kingdom and our attitudes of service within it.
For many are invited, but few are chosen.Matthew 22:14Here is another parable about the kingdom of heaven.In the story, we see the king who is celebrating the wedding banquet for his son. Many are invited to the banquet, called to celebrate with the king, but this invitation is rejected and ignored by those who are initially invited. What follows is a description of what happens to those who reject the invitation of God, but also what happens to those who do not arrive to the banquet of the king in a suitable manner.
The kingdom of heaven is like treasure, buried in a field, that a man found and reburied. Then in his joy he goes and sells everything he has and buys that field.Matthew 13:44This brief parable highlights the extent and influence that the kingdom of heaven has over the one who identifies it correctly. The transaction of this story depicts a person who happens upon something of great value and is willing to let go of everything for the sake of possessing and owning it. This action is spurred out of the joy of discovery and of holding this treasure as his own. In the same way, each follower of Christ must evaluate and consider how much joy the rule of Christ brings them and what they are willing to sacrifice so that the kingdom can properly held to.
"God, have mercy on me, a sinner!" Luke 18:13How often is this our prayer?How frequently is this our feeling?Jesus tells this parable to people who were feeling self-assured in their own right standing before God.The simple truth of this story is that we must recall our natural state before God and rely on his grace and mercy to be in fellowship with him.If we carry on with the understanding that we can trust in ourselves for right standing with God, then we are proceeding through our lives in delusion and genuine misunderstanding of our need for a Saviour.It is only when we realize our true need that we can come to God in humility and trust Jesus for our right standing with God.
Son, Abraham said, remember that during your life you received your good things, just as Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here, while you are in agony".Luke 16:25This parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus can be a jarring and disturbing story.We have the reminder that all of our lives will come to an end and, with that end, we will spend the remainder of eternity in Heaven with God or in Hell separated from him, being in torment.The real concern is how the rich man ended up in such a state. Does this passage indicate that rich people inhabit Hell and poor people inhabit Heaven? As his customary in these parables, the truth is less blunt than this. There are other elements of the rich man's story, as well as points that Jesus makes to the religious leaders in the surrounding context, that shed light on how the rich man ended up separated from God. Our prayer is that we can soberly look at this passage of Scripture and inwardly into our own lives to evaluate the state of our hearts before God.
Master, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Then where did the weeds come from?Matthew 13:27Jesus tells this parable in a series that is designed to highlight the dynamics of the kingdom of God. In this case, we are provided with a detailed explanation about what each of the images represent (Matthew 12:37-43). Jesus is trying to impress upon his disciples that evil exists in the world, but also, that the ones who are righteous (the good seed in the world that are the followers of Jesus Christ) have a role to fulfil in the midst of this wicked company. Unfortunately, those who serve God seem eager to remove the evil without considering the effect on others who are righteous around them. Jesus is trying to encourage his followers to remain faithful, yet avoid unnecessary judgment, in the world until he returns in the end.
He was lost and is found. Luke 15:24In this third parable of lostness, Jesus describes two sons who become lost in different ways. When we consider the ways that each son experiences the loss of relationship with the father, we begin to identify when we ourselves need to be found by God and found in his compassionate working. At the conclusion of the parable, we are confronted with the consideration of which son we identify with the most and how we must "come to our senses" so that we may keep good relationship with God, our Father and foster healthy relationship with others who have become lost.
There is joy in the presence of Gods angels over one sinner who repents.Luke 15:10This week, we explored the parable of the Lost Coin. This story is an extension of the parable of the Lost Sheep that was told to complaining religious people about the way that Jesus was giving attention and care to the tax collectors and sinners who were coming to listen to Jesus. In using this story about a lost coin, Jesus is communicating something about the value of the lost - that the lost have a particular value in the eyes of God so that he is motivated to seek and find them.From this, we are invited into the joy of Jesus when the valuable lost becomes found..
Rejoice with me, because I have found my lost sheep!Luke 15:6Jesus addresses this parable to those people who could not see why Jesus would welcome "sinful people." His response is a series of three parables that provide his listeners with a mindset and perspective that invites an adjustment away from what the professionally religious wanted to hold onto. This parable of the lost sheep shows the seeking redemption that God brings into the lives of those who have lost their ways. It also highlights the results of the finding and the satisfaction that we can share with God in seeing his work be done.
Let anyone who has ears listen.Matthew 13:9This Sunday, we begin our series that explores the parables that Jesus tells. These are stories designed to shape and inform our understanding about God's kingdom and how we live in relationship to his rule. This is the concluding line to the parable that Jesus tells at the beginning of Matthew 13. It is a peculiar saying since most every person has ears. Jesus is driving towards the truth that just because we hear something does not mean that it will make a difference in our lives. It begs the question: "When will God's words make a difference in our lives?" This is an appropriate place to begin our series since we will hear the words of Christ, but will they have impact in meaning for us?
The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all his acts.Psalm 145:17As we conclude our series in the Psalms, we lift our voices in prayer and recognize God in all of his splendour and majesty. Psalm 145 gives a magnificent description of his goodness, splendour, help, and faithfulness. May you rest in these powerful qualities of God and call out to him in faith and prayer.
Search me, God, and know my heart.Psalm 139:23 In this well loved Psalm, the writer, David, becomes overwhelmed at the thought of God's knowledge and presence. This omniscience and omnipresence are dimensions of God's character that cause David to express heartfelt praise and celebration. But David's mind races to those who are not so impressed with these dynamics of God's character. While challenged with these thoughts, he gives them to God and asks him to lead him in the best ways forward.
How can I repay the Lord for all the good he has done for me?Psalm 116:12This week's Psalm explores the wonderful depths of God's grace and salvation. The writer describes how much the character of God's grace shines through his life and the uplifting effect this has on him. He has been saved and now he reflects what can be done in light of this great saving work of God. We join with the writer in our own determined worship in consideration of God's saving work, but also in how we suitably respond to this salvation.
I wait for the Lord; I wait and put my hope in his word.Psalm 130:5 What are you waiting for? We wait for the things that we need and desire - but this is most deeply felt when we wait on matters or news or circumstances that have considerable weight or bearing in our lives. This Psalm is a prayer that anticipates the needed redemption of the writer. We need the redemption from our sins, but also the help needed in our circumstances. This prayer guides our hearts in the waiting for this needed redemption.
But we will bless the Lord, both now and forever.Psalm 115:18 This Psalm is a prayer of declaring allegiance - that we are to give God glory or recognition for his character and work. Our temptation is that we would redirect that glory back to ourselves. Some of this is worked out in the idols that we craft for ourselves. Instead, we are to glorify God, trust in him, and be a blessing to him. The result is to experience the blessing of God in his faithful love and steadfast truth.
I will bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks to your name for your constant love and truth.Ps 138:2 Gratitude is a time when we suitably recognize another for their help or contribution to our lives. Following this idea, gratitude also becomes a very personal expression. Our Psalm this week shows us the personal expression of praise and thanksgiving from David, but also some of the personal reasons why David is committed to give God praise and thanksgiving. For us today, we must also find those personally expressive ways to give God the praise and thanks that he is due.
But you, Lord, my Lord, deal kindly with me for your names sake; because your faithful love is good, rescue me.Ps 109:21 As we continue in exploring the Psalm through this summer, we remember that these words help us in our own prayers and expressions to God. Sometimes, we lack the words and our not sure how to express some of our deepest feelings to our God. In this Psalm, David writes about a circumstance where he is so wounded by another that he cries out to God, but in ways that we do not typically associate with prayer. We can identify times when we would wish that justice could be seen to be done in the midst of our betrayal and hurt. This week's text leads us through expressing ourselves honestly to God, while maintaining faith and trust in him to restore and heal.
Are you chasing after things that are too wonderful for you? How does one become humble? In Psalm 131, using just three verses David paints a soft and substantial image of what it means to put aside pride in pursuit of a relationship with the Heavenly Father. We will be looking at this psalm of ascent and reflecting on its comforting, yet deeply challenging point: That true humility cannot come from ourselves, and is only fully realized when we sit in harmony with God.
Grasping greatness deepens devotion. When we experience something of great beauty, we naturally respond with adoration and appreciation. When we come across something of greater power than ourselves, we instinctively react with submission and respect. When we receive great love from someone we intuitively answer with gratefulness and love. Psalm 111 is a declaration of the greatness of Gods works and character and reveals to us that the greatness of our God compels us to follow in his wisdom and instruction.
Psalm 110 is the most quoted Psalm in the New Testament. Its all about Jesus ruling as King and Priest. Yet, its uncomfortably violent. We know the Son of Man will come at anhourwe do not expect (Lk. 12:40), but might he also be coming in amannerwe do not expect?
Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see if they are from God.1 John 4:1 We live in a world of conflicting messages and ideas. We have already explored and seen in other parts of the Bible the way that Gods Spirit leads and directs us in how to live and how we think about God. Yet, we do not always feel the clarity that we desire or experience resonant truth directly. In this final message in our series about the Holy Spirit, we explore how we are able to discern truth from error; Gods genuine direction from lying spiritual forces that would aim to misdirect our discipleship. Walking in step with the Spirit of truth is important as we continue our new life in Christ.
I say, then, walk by the Spirit and you will certainly not carry out the desire of the flesh.Galatians 5:16 Last week, we looked in Romans 8 about how a person who is a believer in Jesus Christ is no longer obligated to live according to the flesh, but that the follower of Jesus is led by the Holy Spirit. The point in this is to be able to see the difference between the Holy Spirit and the flesh. In our text this week from Galatians 5, we have a clearer picture of the difference between the flesh and the Spirit, but also our active relationship with the Holy Spirit in our daily lives. When we walk in the Spirit, we will not gratify the desires of our flesh, and the difference will be obvious.
For all those led by Gods Spirit are Gods [children].Romans 8:14 As we continue exploring our new life in the Holy Spirit, we begin to see how the promised Spirit of God interacts with our lives. When we are led by Gods Spirit, we are forsaking a way of life that appeals to our flesh and natural appetites. We read that if we proceed in these same old ways, we will, in fact, die. Instead, the follower of Jesus is led by the Spirit, to experience the life of Gods child being adopted by our Father. This is the life and peace we experience in the Holy Spirit.
It is for your benefit that I go away, because if I dont go away the Counselor will not come to you. If I go, I will send him to you.John 16:7Last week, we recognized Pentecost and the arrival of Gods Holy Spirit in the lives of the disciples and in the view of the world. This event is foreshadowed in this chapter in the gospel of John. Here, we see not only the promise of Jesus that the Holy Spirit would enter into the lives of the disciples, but also the kind of work that he will accomplish when he arrives. Particularly, there is the specific work of the Spirit in guiding the followers of Jesus into the truth they need so that they are able to bear witness about Jesus in their own lives. It is through the Spirit that we find the guidance that we need to share Christ in a world that does not know Jesus or identify with him.
And it will be in the last days, says God, that I will pour out my Spirit on all people.Acts 2:17Today is the Sunday when we recognize Pentecost. This is the day when the promised Holy Spirit descends upon the gathered disciples of Christ and fills them with his power and presence. Acts 2 is notably remembered for the sermon that Peter preaches to the people, but he does so with the enabling of Gods Spirit. In these words, we are introduced to the Holy Spirit and the ways that he moves in the people of God to accomplish the purposes of God.
Dear friends, we are Gods children now, and what we will be has not yet been revealed.1 John 3:2As we conclude this series that focuses on our new life in Christ, we examine a portion of Scripture that points us towards an ongoing pursuit and anticipation for every person who follows Jesus. We have the comfort of being Gods children who have trusted in Jesus for forgiveness and new life, but what we will become has not yet been revealed. This is a reference to the resurrection that those who believe in Jesus can anticipate. In the surrounding words, we have the encouragement from the apostle John to remain in Jesus so that when he appears, we are able to have confidence and comfort at his appearing.
Ihopethat tomorrow will be a warm, sunny day. Its a statement that reveals ones desire for the future, but this kind of hope doesnt ensure that the next days weather will match ones preference.In 1 Peter 1:3, we learn that believers have been given a living hope. This kind of hope is not just wishful thinking. Its inseparably linked to the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. The Christians hope is firmly anchored on the promise of an amazing inheritance in heaven, and the salvation of ones soul. A living hope gives believers a sense of confidence and security about their future in this life and beyond. It empowers and emboldens, and encourages them, even when lifes circumstances include suffering, difficulty, and pain. Praise God for the power of hope thats rooted in the resurrection of Jesus.
But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ.Philippians 3:7This series in the resurrection explores the new life that we experience in Christ. It is impossible to consider a new life without a memory of our old life. In this passage, the apostle Paul reminds his readers that they are not to put their confidence in the flesh. The flesh is the old way of living, when we relied on ourselves and depended on our own strength to feel like our lives were flourishing. All of the ways that our flesh or old life served us was perceived as a gain to us. But when a person believes in Jesus Christ, we are to regard those gains as losses. The old life is considered to be rubbish when compared with the new life in Christ. This is a life of right standing with God that comes from faith. Therefore, our aim is to know Jesus and the power of his resurrection, being acquainted with suffering in this life as we look to our own resurrection in the end.
Dr. Richard Schlitt shares with WEFC this week. He has been the keynote speaker for our Missions Weekend and we are grateful for the way that he draws our attention to Gods Word and his heart to reach the world around us.
Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say, There is no resurrection of the dead?1 Corinthians 15:12 (CSB)The church in Corinth wrestled with a number of issues, but none so great as their perspective about the resurrection of Jesus. There were questions about the resurrection of the dead, leading Paul to address the matter. The resurrection of Jesus is the central proclamation of Christianity, so it is a crucial matter to settle in the mind and to commit to in faith. In this passage, we are brought into the difficult realities that crop up if there is no resurrection and if Christ did not rise from the dead. Jesus resurrection holds so many implications for our life and death; our faith and salvation.
Despite various attempts to explain away the resurrection, the Biblical account remains the most plausible, and it establishes Jesus lordship over all things and all people, summoning us to trust in Him and surrender to Him.
Theyve taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we dont know where theyve put him!John 20:2On the morning of the resurrection of Jesus, his followers had difficulty processing what was happening. They had witnessed their Master die only a couple of days before this. They were struggling for answers, struggling in their faith, and struggling in the midst of their great loss. It seems astonishing, but the disciples initially missed the conclusion that they were to arrive at: that Jesus had come back to life in the way that he had promised them. For ourselves, perhaps we also miss the miracle of Jesus resurrection. This week, may we consider what stands in our way from savouring the truth of Jesus resurrection and strive not to miss the wonder of the new life that he brings to us.
This was the prayer and cry of the people as Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.As they waved their branches and celebrated his arrival, there was an additional sense and meaning that was behind each of the actions of the crowd.They wanted Jesus to save them, but in the ways and on the terms that they had already decided upon.This week, we saw where we join the crowd in what we ask Jesus to save us from, but also consider what Jesus came to save us into. May we follow Jesus leading and direction as we look for his salvation.
can these bones live?I replied, Lord God, only you know.Ezekiel 37:3This week, we explore a vision that the prophet Ezekiel received while the people of Israel were in captivity. Ezekiel sees a vast valley of bones, a landscape of death and despair. We discover that these bones represent the nation of Israel who have had all of their hopes and desires crushed by their circumstances. But God commissions Ezekiel to prophecy over the bones and bring new life into them. Even in the midst of hopelessness, even when there is no signs of life, God is able to bring new life and new creation to his people, but he does this in ways that may surprise us in the process.
The Lord said to Samuel, How long are you going to mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and go. I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem because I have selected for myself a king from his sons.Samuel asked, How can I go?1 Samuel 16:12Our lives can be met with disappointment. However, we need to be able to carry onwards, moving ahead in the ways that God leads and directs us. We need to find a way to proceed after disillusionment in the ways that God desires us to proceed. Samuels question is both functional and spiritual. If he goes, the old, disappointing king is likely to take his life. But, also, how can he go when his efforts have resulted in such a disaster? Samuel is needing faith to proceed and follow through on the Lords will. This week, we will explore how we can foster a genuine faith when we are faltering. We will find that God is also able to supply for us when we are lacking in faith and when we question how we can go to do his will.
They tested the Lord, saying, Is the Lord among us or not? Exodus 17:7Our need for a Saviour is shown when we test the Lord. We test the Lord when we question his involvement in our lives and demand that he show his power, his love, or his presence, even though he has done so time and again. Our text this week illustrates those times when we are inclined to test God, but also how we are shown ways that we can continue in a trusting faith. In the same ways that Moses walks with God in this passage, we see Jesus being the one who is greater than Moses exemplifying these same qualities in his perfection and character.
I lift my eyes toward the mountains. Where will my help come from?- Psalm 121:1Our lives can become filled with concerns and anxieties; challenges and sorrows. It can feel as though all of life is closing in around us. We need help. But what help? What can help us in the particular circumstances that we are facing? We become tempted towards despair, wondering if help will ever come. We become tempted towards finding a solution that is rooted in the world, or in ourselves. But this weeks text communicates where our help truly comes from. We trust in a God who is our Protector and who does not abandon us to the evils and darkness of the world. He remains our present help in trouble and we can walk with him through these times.
Did God really say, You cant eat from any tree in the garden?Genesis 3:1As we begin our series in the season of Lent, we become keenly aware of our need for a Saviour as we explore these scene in Scripture when the sinfulness of humanity came into being. As we look into the account of Adam and Eve being tempted by the Devil (see Rev. 12:9), we are also able to see our own common part in this narrative. We ourselves become more susceptible to temptation when certain conditions present themselves. We find that when we share these conditions, we open ourselves up to sinful behaviour, creating distance from our God who loves us. However, at each turn, we are able to come back to Jesus and rely on the Holy Spirit to help us in our time of need.
Today marks the final week in our Epiphany series. Epiphany means revealing or unveiling. In Matthew 17:1-9, Jesus leads Peter, James, and John up on a high mountain where they beheld His divine glory as he spoke with Moses and Elijah. What does this mean about Jesus? How shall we respond? I hope youll join us this Sunday for a sermon entitledThe Glorified Christ Revealed.
See, today I have set before you life and prosperity, death and adversity.Deuteronomy 30:15Jesus is revealed as the one who brings us life; new life that has delivered us from death. Yet, we remain responsible to choose life. In our text this week, we enter into the challenge that God gives to his people to choose life. While salvation is his free gift to us, there are particular expectations that God has for us as we respond to Jesus - the revealed source of life and forgiveness.
Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near.Matthew 4:17Jesus is revealed to be the promised Saviour, but in this unveiling of his character and working, we see new realities coming into being as well.Following his baptism and temptation, Jesus resides in a specific area as a way of fulfilling a promise in the Scriptures.The people who live in darkness have seen a great light.This light is Jesus himself, but this is also the light of what he is bringing into the world: the Kingdom of God.From this point on, Jesus begins to preach to others that they should turn from their way of living to take notice of the kingdom that has come near to them. As Gods kingdom has come near to you and I, we must also consider our response to this light that Jesus reveals to us.
Mankind, he has told each of you what is good and what it is the Lord requires of you: to act justly, to love faithfulness, and to walk humbly with your God.Micah 6:8We move back to the Old Testament as we proceed through the season of Epiphany. We remember that this is a season when we look for the ways that Jesus, the promised Messiah, is revealed to us so that we may see him more clearly and follow him more closely. In our text this week, the people of God are troubled about the state of their lives and in the ways that they are trying to return back to God. The problem is that they dont feel that they know the way to do it. In Gods mercy and providence, he shows them the way that they are to live and exist. Gods perfect will is revealed for the people. As we live in the days after these words, we are able to see how Jesus Christ perfectly exhibited and exampled Gods perfect will. In this, we have Gods will revealed in Jesus flesh and blood example set before us.
Then Jesus told him, Go away, Satan! For it is written: Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him. Matthew 4:10These words are the concluding interactions between Jesus and the devil in the wilderness. Jesus enters into the same temptations that we ourselves face and joins with us as our companion and empathetic Saviour. Jesus also provides an example of when our own knowledge of Scripture will help us to overcome the temptations that we face. Knowing what the Bible says in our temptations is only part of the equation when battling sin. That knowledge of Scripture must transform our understanding and actions so that we live in the same overcoming, Spirit-led life that has been secured by our Saviour.
Shout for joy, you heavens! Earth, rejoice! Mountains break into joyful shouts!For the Lord has comforted his people, and will have compassion on his afflicted ones. Isaiah 49:13Last week, we saw the way that Jesus Christ was revealed as being the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. We celebrate and savour that our sins can be forgiven when we trust in Jesus, but is this the only aspect of our salvation? Does new life in Christ carry further significance and meaning? This week, in Isaiah 49:1-13, we are given the revealing of Gods chosen Servant, the Messiah. He comes to bring Gods salvation that redeems from sin, but also brings a number of other new realities, encouragements, and meaning to our new life in him.
This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.- Matthew 3:17As we exit the Advent and Christmas season, we move into Epiphany; a new season when we focus on the revealed Saviour who was promised to us.This week, we will explore the baptism of Jesus, how his example in this action of obedience and submission encourages us, and how he willfully identifies with you and I in the waters of baptism.We are able to find comfort and encouragement in that Jesus does not arrive to us in a position of superiority or domination, but as one who comes alongside of us to gently show us our way back to the Father.
This is my practice: I obey your precepts. Psalm 119:56Psalm 119 is the quintessential call to consider and focus on the Word of God.As we proceed into a New Year, we must evaluate the role that Gods Word has in our lives.What are our practices in relationship to his unchanging Word?How mindful are we of Gods commands and precepts.We see the example and call to make obedience to his Word a persistent practice.As 2023 begins to unfold, determine to make this kind of obedience your regular practice and habit.
And they will be calledthe Holy People, the Lords Redeemed; and you will be called Cared For, A City Not Deserted.Isaiah 62:12The gift of Jesus Christ into the world has eternal implications for humanity. Isaiah 62 is set before the time of Jesus arrival into the world.In this chapter, Isaiah is looking ahead to a time when the people of God would be restored from the place of need and brokenness that they experienced. They would be called by new names: Holy People, the Lords Redeemed, Cared For, a City Not Deserted. Today we celebrate and recognize that faith in Jesus Christ gives to us a new identity; one that is found in his enduring character and salvation.This chapter celebrates Gods promise of restoring salvation to his people who were described as Desolateand Deserted.You are made new in him.
Ask for a signfrom the Lord your Godit can be as deep as Sheol or as high as heaven.Isaiah 7:11We need signs; they help us to determine if we are going in the right direction or if we have the correct ideas. Signs also give us indications about the state of relationship with others. Isaiah 7 highlights the difficulty that the nation of Judah was experiencing; surrounding nations that were threatening to subjugate them. All of this was following a devastating defeat that resulted considerable loss for the nation.The people needed a sign that God was still there; that he still loved them, because it did not seem like the case. God says that he will give them the assurance of his love and presence in a sign. For us who are believing in Jesus so many years later, we understand this sign to be Jesus himself being promised as the sign of Gods enduring presence and steadfast love. We are able to look to Jesus as Gods promised sign.
The ransomed of the Lord will returnand come to Zion with singing, crowned with unending joy. Joy and gladness will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee.Isaiah 35:10Crowned with unending joy Joy and gladness will overtake themHere is a described state of being that seems to be in constant joy; a gladness that persists and drives away darkness and despair.Where does this joy come from?Where does a follower of Jesus find this kind of joy that allows us to remain strong and operate without fear in a challenge and hurtful world? This weeks encouragement from Isaiah 35 gives us a glimpse of where we are able to find this kind of lasting joy so that we are able to continuing living in faith and discipleship in a world that does not care for either.
Righteousness will be a belt around his hips; faithfulness will be a belt around his waist. The wolf will dwell with the lamb, and the leopard will lie down with the goat. The calf, the young lion, and the fattened calf will be together, and a child will lead them.Isaiah 11:5-6This week we are met with the promised arrival of the Branch - one of the designations of the promised Messiah who would come to bear the fruit of Gods rule in the world. This Branch comes from the stump of Jesse, indicating the desolation and ruin that the kingdom of Judah had experienced. They were a mere stump of their former power and glory. The Branch is promised to wear righteousness and faithfulness as the binding element of his attire and character. What is more, we are met with the description of what his rule will look like: the feral savagery of creation will be transformed and peace will reign. This will be a peace like no other, completely transforming the created order.We will consider when we can expect to see this kind of peace as we follow Jesus and as we continue to live in the world, anticipating his return.
O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord.Isaiah 2:5We have entered the Christian season ofAdvent; a time marked with an anticipation of the arrival of Jesus Christ into the world. The Advent season looks behind us, recalling the fulfilled promise of the Messiah to come into the world to save and redeem fallen and broken humanity. But this season also calls us to look ahead of us, anticipating the yet-to-be fulfilled promise of the Risen Messiah to return into the world to conclusively establish the Kingdom of God.So this is a time of waiting. We wait to see the hope that we have in Christ to be fulfilled in its fullest and more complete way. We join with the people of God in previous times in history who looked ahead, responding to the invitation to walk in the light of the Lord. Yet, this hope and light can seem distant and dim. This weeks text helps us to see what we are able to be hopeful in and how we proceed in the Lords light.
Devote yourselves to prayer; stay alert in it with thanksgiving.Colossians 4:2As the Apostle Paul concludes his letter to the Colossians, there are specific instructions to remain devoted to prayer and thanksgiving. Following this, there are a host of individuals who are mentioned that highlight the communal nature of our faith and walk in Christ Jesus. We understand that each person in the church is surrounded by others who are encouraging and nurturing their faith. But how does this take place? How do these relationships help us to seek Christ and continue to walk in him? These closing verses give us distinct clues that point us towards the cues that we can look for in others who are following Christ with us. God uses each of these people in specific ways to help us grow in him. Being aware of this helps us to identify the blessing of other believers in our lives.
Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people Colossians 3:23 Last week, Pastor Len described the various qualities that a follower of Jesus is to put off and to put on.What follows this is our text this week: a description of the various relationships that we keep and maintain.In these core relationships with our spouse, family, and in our work, we begin to see the first and primary environments where our faith in Christ is expressed and realized.The real difference of belonging to Jesus takes its first steps in the core contexts of our lives.This helps us in making our faith foundational in our daily living as we seek Christ and the things above.
Its a daily decision! What should I wear today? Many factors are considered before the final decision is made. Where am I going? Who will be there? How formal will it be? Whats in my closet? Whats in the laundry? Its important to choose proper apparel for a particular occasion. This weeks Scripture uses the fashion metaphor to help believers understand Gods spiritual dress code. It uses the term put on to encourage virtues that make one attractive, and put off to identify vices which are fashion faux pas. As followers of Jesus, we want adorn ourselves with characteristics, attitudes, and behaviors that are spiritually in style for every situation.
your life is hidden with ChristCol. 3:3 Last week, we examined those aspects and ideas of the world that threaten our own faith in Jesus Christ. As a corrective measure against these influences, Paul encourages the Colossian church to seek Christ; to seek the things above, to set their minds on things above. As we set our minds and hearts on Christ Jesus, the one who sits at the right hand of the Father, we come to realize the reason that this is necessary. We are encountered with the truth, that the one who believes in Jesus Christ has, in fact, died to themselves, and now experiences a life that is hidden in Christ. Consequently, we must look and evaluate those ways by which we can set our minds on the things above, rather than the earthly influences that take us away from our life in Christ.
If you died with Christ to the elements of this world, why do you live as if you still belonged to the world?Colossians 2:20 Last week, we examined what it means to live in the fullness of Christ. There is a richness and depth in all that we have in him. However, the fullness of Christ may not always be a reality in our lives. We can be tempted to live in ways that keep us anchored in the world; mainly because the world exerts a seemingly greater force or louder voice in our lives. Yet, in Christ, the Christian has dies to the requirements and demands of the world around us. Colossians 2:16-23 outlines those areas that we may be tempted to remain in step with rather than live in the fullness that Jesus gives to those who believe in him.
Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy or empty deceit- Colossians 2:8 In this weeks text, we explore how Christ Jesus compares with the philosophies and other good ideas of the world. Paul describes these alternatives to Jesus as empty deceit. Sometimes we can be tempted to buy into such ideas, but we find here that there is a fullness that we find in the person of Jesus that counters the emptiness of these ideas. We find the fullness of Jesus adds depth and meaning for our lives that we live within. Through these verses, we further discover the riches that we have in believing in and following Jesus.
I am saying this so that no one will deceive you with arguments that sound reasonable.- Colossians 2:4 Paul has taken great pains to ensure that the Colossian church has a focus on Jesus as the only one who they can depend on for salvation and life. Now, we explore the primary rationale for this important letter. The Colossians were being drawn into arguments that would take them away from following Jesus. Our text this week zeros in on the ways that genuine followers of Christ can avoid being deceived by arguments from all around us; arguments that sound reasonable and have a ring of some sort of truth. There is a vigilance that each follower of Jesus can exercise to avoid these deceptions.
God wanted to make known among the Gentiles the glorious wealth of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hopeof glory.- Colossians 1:27 In our time in Colossians, we have considered the rich depths of the person and character of Christ Jesus.Paul goes to great lengths to present Jesus as the central hope and focus of our faith in the one true God.As this hope is presented, we are seeing the work of God to proclaim Jesus to the whole world.In our text this week, we read about the way that the mystery of Christ is shown to be clear for those who need hope.
he has reconciled you by his physical body through his death- Colossians 1:22 Last week, we reflected and witnessed the wonderful description of Christ Jesus as the one in who all of the fullness of God dwells and though whom God was pleased to reconcile us to himself. But what does this mean for us? When we believe in the good news of being reconciled to God, there are specific ways that this will affect our lives as we trust in him. As we savour the comfort of being reconciled to God, we are led into renewed understandings of ourselves and of how we can live our lives in relationship to God and to the gospel.
He is the image of the invisible God,the firstborn over all creation.He is also the head of the body, the church;he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead(Colossians 1:15,18) We concluded our time in Colossians last Sunday with the wonderful truth that the faithful in Christ are those people who have been rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred into the kingdom of the Son [who God] loves. In him we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins (Col. 1:13-14). Who is this Son that God loves and accomplishes this redemption through? Who is this Son that transfers us out of the domain of darkness and provides the forgiveness of our sins? The quick answer is, Jesus, but we are provided with qualifying responses about who Jesus is that gives us assurance of his character and work.
Come to me with your salvation so that I may enjoy the prosperity of your chosen ones, rejoice in the joy of your nation, and boast about your heritage.- Psalm 106:5b-6 As we come to this seasons conclusion of our series in the Psalms (Book IV), we are met with the stirring remembrance of the ways that Gods people have held themselves in relationship with him. God consistently and reliably remains faithful to the promises he makes to his people. However, there is a regular struggle for the people to remain in relationship with him. The prayer in the verse given above is asking for God to bring his salvation so that the psalmist can truly enjoy the life that he was designed for. Yet, it is important to consider what we are saved from when we are asking for Gods salvation to be revealed. We have been saved from sin, but there is more to consider about the salvation that God offers us. With this more complete portrait of our salvation, we enter into renewed daily intimacy with God.
Remember the wonderful works he has done, his wonders, and the judgments he has pronounced- Psalm 105:5Our actions are tied to our memories.The ways that we operate and the habits we keep are rooted in the memories of past experiences.Some of these past experiences involve the passing on of crucial events from other people who are concerned for our future flourishing.This weeks psalm brings us into this same experience, calling us to remember the wonderful working and character of God so that we have anchors for our faith and lives.
For you, Lord, are the Most High over the whole earth; you are exalted above all the gods.- Psalm 97:9 God is the one and only God. He is the one who reigns supreme over all things. His power works to create all things and to redeem us from the power of sin and death. No other entity, personality, or being can claim this. Since this is the case, God is the only one worthy of our worship and devotion.But there are many times that our worship is out of order. We need to evaluate ourselves with respect to the direction of our worship and consider how we derive joy and gladness from worshipping the one and only true God.
The Lord reigns! He is robed in majesty; the Lord is robed, enveloped in strength. The world is firmly established; it cannot be shaken.Psalm 93:1 (CSB) This weeks scripture reminds us that we serve a God who reigns and rules forever.As we reflect on Psalm 93, we consider the ways of God displays his mighty power in our world, but also in our lives. We think and consider how the voice of the Lord, who is the eternal King, has authority and presence within our lives. Will we submit to his reign and rule, or will we strive and struggle against his powerful influence?
Lord, how long will the wickedhow long will the wicked celebrate?Psalm 94:3 When the follower of Jesus looks out into the world, it appears as though wickedness and evil have free reign; that they are able to flourish without justice being done.In Psalm 94, we are provided with specific assurances that God remains the Righteous Judge over our circumstances and the world.As we remain assured of his knowledge of evil, his discipline through his word, his presence in our circumstances, and his continuing love to support us, we are able to proceed in a peaceful trust in him. When I am filled with cares, your comfort brings me joy."Psalm 94:19
My soul, bless the Lord, and do not forget his benefits.Psalm 103:2This Psalm calls us to Bless the Lord.Blessing the Lord is the act of worshipping him and giving back to him the recognition, praise, and glory that he is worth receiving.As we bless the Lord, we are also called not to forget his benefits.We bless the Lord by remembering the benefits of Gods redeeming work, his loving compassion, and his eternal power that we need so we can live each day.Bless the Lord and do not neglect in remembering his wonderful saving work through faith in Jesus Christ, his steadfast love for us, and his eternal majesty.
Psalm 96 commands us to exclaim Gods praises for who he is and what he has done, as well as to boldly proclaim to every nation Gods glory, his salvation, and his reign over all the earth so that every person might know him and join in creations song of jubilant rejoicing of his coming reign.
For many people, The Good Life in summer includes outdoor activities in the garden, at the beach, in the park, or at a cottage. There are so many enjoyable things to do. Psalm 92:1 reminds us that Praising the Lord is an activity that should be included in our list of Good Things To Do. In the verses that follow, we are given a variety of reasons why praising the Lord is a positive, logical, wise, enjoyable activity to engage in. Join us as we explore why it is good to praise the Lord.
Protection from evil? Immunity from disease? No fear from arrows or pestilence or destruction?Well... not so fast. Psalm 91 provides insight and clarity on the wonderous protection promised to those who put their trust in the Lord.Those who dwell in the 'Shadow of the Almighty' will be held fast.
God is much older than we imagine, and our time is much shorter than we think. A heart of wisdom makes God its dwelling place.
Guest speaker today is Trevor Berg. Joseph found out that the women he was engaged to be married to was pregnant! He knew he was not the father, and it is safe to assume he felt betrayed and hurt. Eventually, Joseph was convinced to wed Mary, and to be the foster father to a young boy Jesus. Joseph faithfully performed the duties of fatherhood at the time. This Fathers Day, lets think about how Joseph is a model for all men out there who are fathers to children who otherwise wouldnt have a dad. Lets celebrate those men, and consider how we can be fathers to the fatherless. Thank God for Joseph, and his willingness to give up much, which led to a sacrifice that can benefit all for eternity.
Guest speaker today is Bill Taylor, Executive Director of the Evangelical Free Church of Canada. We are living in a changing world and our neighbors hold a variety of assumptions about life and good and evil. Pauls experience on his third missionary journey illustrates a good approach for living in a pluralistic world where Christian worldview is no longer dominant. Like Paul we need to live and share our faith exegeting the culture, exercising Holy Spirit power and executing His orders.
Our guest speaker today is Greg Musselman. Jesus told us to take up our cross and follow Him, but what does that mean for us today living in Canada? Greg Musselman of The Voice of the Martyrs Canada will try to help us understand how we live out the instructions of Jesus to take up our cross in our daily lives. Greg will also share stories of how believers around the world are paying a huge price because of their love and devotion for God!
The last few verses in Habakkuk have been described as one of the greatest statements of faith found anywhere. What do we do when we look around and everything is falling to pieces? The appropriate response is to place our hope and trust in the God who is powerful and faithful. After Habakkuk agonized deeply over the circumstances of life, he was eventually able to say, yet I will rejoice in the Lord. I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength. May God help us to be people of faith in the midst of an evil, lost world.
After looking deep into the harsh reality from a kingdom about to collapse and having the weight of true justice revealed to him, Habakkuk turns from Lament to Praise. Chapter 3 stands as a beautiful and moving psalm in the midst of terrible brokenness, wrapping a portrait of Gods incredible power around the idea of deliverance and the Savior yet to come.
In Habakkuk 2, God reaffirms the fact that His justice will prevail in due time. There is a moral boomerang effect in which oppressors will be oppressed, the conquerors will be conquered, and the arrogant will be humbled. In verses 6 to 20, God announces woe on five sins which will inevitably be judged and punished. Gods justice in relation to sin functions the same way today, but thankfully, He has made provision for the just to live by faith (v.4).
James and John were brothers who were chosen by Jesus to be his disciples. These boys had a mother who was remarkable in a number of ways. Its believed that her name was Salome. Our text in Matthew 20 gives us some insight into the love that Salome had for her children. We do well to learn from her example as we celebrate Mothers Day.
God's BIG answers leave Habakkuk reeling. How does this action fit with who God is? How are we going to survive this? God reveals to Habakkuk, and us, the key to enduring hardship, destruction, turmoil, and disaster. "The righteous shall live by his faith".
Habakkuk asks BIG questions, and God gives STAGGERING answers. In Habakkuk 1:1-11, we hear the complaints of a good man and the response of a sovereign God.
As the Master Teacher, Jesus often used the regular things of life, like birds, salt, coins, sheep, and fig trees to teach spiritual lessons. Near the end of his life, Jesus used a kernel of wheat to draw attention to a paradoxical reality If Theres No Death, Theres No Life! As we explore John 12:20-26, we discover that the divine principle that is imbedded in a kernel of wheat is present in the death and resurrection of Jesus and in several dimensions of our lives as well.
Speaker today is Grant Morrison, Elder Board. This is Good Friday, for Christians perhaps the holiest day of the year, and we will examine the account of the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus based on the Gospel of Mark. We will attempt to answer three simple questions: What did Jesus do? What did it cost Him? What was the result? Come and celebrate the fact that our reconciliation to a holy God is possible only because of what Jesus did on the cross.
Guest speaker today is Keith Boschman. Today is Palm Sunday, the day that the church recognizes and celebrates the event of Jesus arriving into Jerusalem. As distant onlookers into this scene, we are invited to consider what to make of this unique event in the life and ministry of Jesus. Why is Jesus making this big production? What does his arrival mean for those who are trusting and following him today?Today we will explore Matthew 21:1-11 and what it means to follow Jesus as our King.
Family is the basic building block of society. Everyone begins life as a child and the dynamic of the parent/child relationship is foundational for a persons growth and development. Throughout his life and ministry, Jesus affirmed the dignity of childhood and the importance of family relationships. He expresses these values in Matthew 19:13-15 and John 19:25-27.
Guest speaker today is Ron Koleba, District Superintendent. An all-encompassing change thats transformation. Its a big concept, but one expected of us by God. Scriptures except us to be Jesus Christ look 2 likes in our character and behaviour. This is a believers norm. It has been said that many a believer has a new heart, but an old head. Therefore, the transforming of our mind needs to be a believers priority. Gods Word explains what we need to accept and how to live with a transformed mind and it often is a battle. That is why we need, prepare your mind for action.
The book of Ephesians concludes with an emphasis on prayer as an important Christian discipline (Ephesians 6:18-20). The six pieces of armor mentioned in verses 10-17 are essential for the spiritual battle, but they must be undergirded by the ministry of prayer. Phil Wickhams song, Battle Belongs, captures this reality when it says, So when I fight, Ill fight on my knees. May God be pleased as we reflect on our level of devotion to the discipline of prayer.
Paul has called us to be strong in the Lord and to stand firm against the devils schemes. How do we do that? WeSuit Up!
Imagine, if you can, that a tyrannical ruler has taken aggressive military action against citizens of another nation to restore his now collapsing realm to its former glory by reclaiming his lost territory and residents. Sound familiar? Im not talking about Russia and Ukraine.
Speaker today is Grant Morrison, Board Elder. Are you faithful to do your assigned tasks and respectful to your supervisor whether you work for wages or as a volunteer? If you have employees or volunteers for whom you are responsible do you treat them with fairness and respect? In this brief portion Paul, speaking in the context of slaves and masters, reminds both groups (and us too) that ultimately, as believers, our responsibility is to the Lord and He is the One we honour or dishonour with the service we provide.
In Ephesians 5:18, the Apostle Paul instructs believers to be filled with the Spirit. Last week, Pastor Joel expounded on the impact that the Spirits filling has in a marriage relationship (Eph. 5:21-33). As we continue our series in Ephesians this week, we will give attention to the dynamic of the parent-child relationship as it is expressed in a Spirit-filled family. Paul provides instructions for both children and parents in Ephesians 6:1-4.
What does it mean for wives to submit to their husbands and what does it mean for husbands to love their wives? The Spirit-filled marriage preaches the gospel. It casts light upon the glorious relationship between Christ and the Church.
We are a city on a hill, a light in the darkness. Our resurrected life shines for all to see.
Speaker today is Mark Grafe, Board Elder. Not only do we bear Gods image in Christ, we are also being encouraged to imitate Him in how we live. To begin, the gate is narrow. To continue, the path is demanding. To arrive, the reward is astonishing.
What is it like to live without faith? How does being made new in Christ really make a difference for you? This week we are looking at Ephesians 4:17-23 to learn from Paul's comparison of the "old self" and the "new self." We are going to dig into the ways faith entirely changes a person and reshapes the way we look at and interact with the world around us, as well as taking a hard look at the things that make it difficult.
Guest speaker today isTerry Kaufman, Leadership Catalyst for the Evangelical Free Church of Canada. We sometimes struggle deciding if we have, or want, a place in the life of the church, or if the church should have a place in our lives. As we together study Ephesians 4:7-16 we will hear Paul making it very clear that the answer to such questioning is a resounding yes. As followers of Jesus we are designed to be connected, with purpose, the larger whole of the Bride of Christ. It is both astonishing and thrilling that God has chosen to include and involve each one of his children as an important part of this complex thing we call the body of Christ.
The New Testament church was a group of people that included Jews and Gentiles, slaves and slave owners, males and females. The potential for disunity was huge, but the Apostle Paul made it clear that there were several factors that made it possible for the church to experience and enjoy unity. The diversity in the church today makes it very easy to become disunified. Paul exhorts believers to make every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. As we focus on Ephesians 4:1-6 this week, well explore some of the hallmarks of Christian unity that need to be maintained.
O Little Town of Bethlehem The town of Bethlehem, into which Jesus was born, had a history. Jesus entered into a location that was familiar with joy and sorrow, celebration and pain. His birthplace was similar to ours in many ways. As we look at the location into which God sent his Son 2000 years ago, we come to realize that God is also eager to enter into our cities, towns, and homes which are quite familiar with joy and sorrow, celebration and pain. We have the wonderful opportunity to open our doors and our hearts to invite him in.
The responsibility that parents have to name their babies is at the same time thrilling and intimidating. The final decision establishes the offsprings identity for life. Mary and Joseph named their firstborn Jesus. On Christmas Eve well explore how the naming process happened, and what the significance of the chosen name was. Anyone who looks at the baby in the manger also has the opportunity to call him Jesus.
Guest speaker today is Bill Ehlers. God spoke to Mary! Like Mary, let's be available as humble, submissive servants.
Guest speaker today is Bill Ehlers. God spoke to the shepherds! Like them, let's respond with amazement, obedience, joyful, witnessing, and praise.
Guest speaker today is Bill Ehlers. God spoke to the magi and they sought him. Lets seek, find, and worship God!
Can a man cup the ocean in his hands? Can the stars be stored in a paper bag? InEphesians 3:14-21, Paul boggles our minds asking that Christ would dwell in our hearts, that we would know what surpasses knowledge, and that we would be filled with the fullness of God!
A mighty rushing wind from heaven has blown away ancient sands, uncovering long-hidden treasures, which shine a bright light on the glory and eternal purposes of God. But how will people learn of this treasure, its purpose, and its endless benefits?
Every new era introduces or popularizes a new vocabulary. Several years ago, words like pandemic or Zoom were words known only by specialists in a few select fields. Now they are regularly used in common, everyday conversation. The dictionary is expanding at a rapid rate. The believers in the New Testament Church were also part of a new era. God was doing amazing things and the early church encountered many new experiences. The arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost propelled the church into a remarkable trajectory of growth. This radical religious movement was establishing its identity, and a new word was introduced to describe it. Acts 11:26 tells us thatthe disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.It was a new word. As we witness the baptism of several believers today, we will explore the origin, meaning, and significance of the term Christian as used in Acts 11:26.
Speaker today is Mark Grafe, Board Elder. There are three questions to ask:Where were you? What are you? What are you becoming?The Bible teaches that in Jesus Christ, I am no longer what I was. But now at peace, we are becoming what God would have us be.
Many of us are inclined to think of salvation as a partnership, God did his part, and I did my part; we each did our share. God can have his credit, and I can have mine. The apostle Paul disagrees and slams the door hard on all such thinking. Salvation, from start to finish, is a work thatGodhas done.
Humanity is divided into two groups: those who are dead and those who are alive. Self-help will not save those who are dead in their trespasses and sins. No one can crawl from a casket. Apart from Christ, we are truly hopeless. But God
Amy Morin is a psychotherapist who wrote an article in Forbes magazine titled Seven Scientifically Proven Benefits of Gratitude. She points out that gratitude opens the door to more relationships, improves physical health, improves psychological health, enhances empathy and reduces aggression, helps people sleep better, improves self-esteem, and increases mental strength. With all those benefits, it would make sense for us to Make Room For Thanksgiving. Thats the title for today's sermon because Ephesians 5:1-7 uses the words, but rather thanksgiving. This text gives us some things to be thankful for, but it also implies that there are some actions and attitudes that we could take out of our lives in order toMake Room For Thanksgiving. May God be pleased as we seek to increase thankfulness on Thanksgiving weekend and all year round.
Guest speaker today is Bill Ehlers. The life that pleases God is not so much about seeking more of God, but of surrendering more of myself (body, mind and spirit) to God.
In the first part of Ephesians chapter one, Paul used an elaborate, run-on sentence to outline the vast array of spiritual blessings that God has lavished on his people. He was overjoyed by the gifts and privileges that God had freely bestowed on the church. In response, he was prompted to pray. Verses 15-23 describe the profound prayer of thanksgiving and supplication that Paul repeatedly expressed to God. Pauls request was that the church would be given an abundance of supernatural wisdom, knowledge, and power. The prayer of Paul was for the early church, but it is also for the church today. Lets pray it!
Ephesianscarefully, reverently, prayerfully considered-- will change our lives. Its opening verses are a waterfall of grace and blessing that leave us in awe of Gods work in bringing us salvation.
Ephesianscarefully, reverently, prayerfully considered-- will change our lives. Its opening verses are a waterfall of grace and blessing that leave us in awe of Gods work in bringing us salvation.
For many September long weekend marks the end of summer and the beginning of a new schedule. We get excited for one last chance to do something special in the summer. So join us today as we pause before this new schedule begins and take special time to joyfully praise God in song, testimony and prayer. God is good. His love endures forever.
On one occasion, Jesus said, In this world you will have trouble (John 16:33). Many psalms reflect this reality. About one third of the psalms are laments prompted by personal and national troubles. In Psalm 77, Asaph cries out to God in his troubles. The symptoms of his distress are sleeplessness, speechlessness, and spiritual doubt. He relentlessly questions Gods character. Eventually, his perspective is transformed when he reflects on the miraculous works of God in the history of Israel. In times of personal and corporate distress, we do well to remember the remarkable things God has done in the past for us, for our families, for our church, and for our country. Jesus said, In this world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have overcome the world.
God does not always give one more chance to repent. His patience is not forever. Yet, He is always faithful to Himself and His promises. Psalm 80 is a prayer for grace and mercy that doesnt come, at least not in the way the Psalmist is hoping. Thankfully, to quote John Calvin, the Lord answers our prayers not as we pray them, but as we would pray them if we were wiser.
Speaker today is Mark Grafe. Have you ever wondered what happens when we pray? Is prayer powerful? Is prayer effective? Let us consider Who it is that we cry out to and what difference it makes in our life.
Guest Speaker today is Nathan Chan, Seraph Lead Pastor The Church is people who God has saved by his grace from his wrath and judgment. But in this world, the suffering and painful circumstances we face can make us question what it means for God to have saved us? In Psalm 85, we get to behold the character and promises of God whose forgiveness and restoration of our sins--both past and present--give us confidence for what he will fully accomplish in this world.
Guest Speaker today is Nathan Chan, Seraph Lead Pastor God wants us to devote our lives to him, but what does a life devoted to God look like? In Psalm 84, we discover God's invitation for us to desire, depend on, and delight in His presence as life's most enduring and satisfying reward. For it is through our lifelong encounter of who He is as our Lord God that enables us to bask in his grace and glory.
Judges play a significant role in many arenas of our society. They make important, and often difficult, decisions at the Science Fair, the Music Festival, the Dog Show, the Figure Skating Competition, the Art Exhibit, the Baking Contest, the Beauty Pageant, the Boxing Match, and the Courtroom. The final decision of a judge can have a huge impact on those involved in a particular contest, competition, or trial. Judges are often loved or loathed, depending on peoples view of their rulings. Psalm 75 reminds us that it is God who judges (v.7). As the ultimate moral judge, God has all the wisdom and authority He needs to make wise, fair decisions. Any attempt to distort or sidestep Gods justice system is an exercise in futility. Any idea that one could escape Gods moral judgment is foolish. Asaph, the writer of Psalm 75, has the capacity to praise God as the judge, and he provides us with good reasons to follow his example. God alone is the judge who is worthy of respect and honor.
Some Psalms are easily carolled from an armchair; others are rightly sobbed from a wheelchair. Generally considered the saddest and darkest of all the Psalms, Psalm 88 stands as a mark of the realism of Biblical faith. The truth is that sometimes believers do suffer their whole life long, and not everyone who prays in faith receives what they ask for. Some never discover the purpose or plan of God within their pain. These are just some of the reasons Psalm 88 is in the Bible. Its the kind of Psalm we need when sorrows like sea billows roll, and if were listening carefully, it booms with the kind of Saviour we need as well.
Speaker today is Grant Morrison, Board Elder. Psalm 89 was authored by Ethan the Ezrahite and was likely written during a time of significant difficulty for Gods people the Jews. The psalm is a combination of praise to God for His bountiful mercy and care for His people and a lament to God over His seeming failure to keep some of the promises He has made. We hope to show that God has steadfast love for His children, God is sovereign over all creation, God is faithful and will always keep the covenants He has made but there are times when the circumstances we face mean that life is very difficult and we cry out to God, we lament because it seems like He has forgotten His promises to care for and provide for us.
Guest speaker today is Ron Koleba. We may mumble (at times not very quietly) about the strictness, the holiness, the straightness, the hassle of what it means to follow God. So did he and he was probably the chief musician in his day. No, he didnt lead a rock band, but was the leader of the church of his time. He had seen enough and the evidence was in: those who do not follow God have money a plenty, fun, good things, mouth off, couldnt care less about God and nothing happens; Gods doesnt do anything about it. Experience was hard to argue with and that is what led him to question the wisdom of being a God-follower. No, it is not foolish to walk in righteousness. Asaph found out why.
Living Right now, means that I make known by act, attitude and nature of the life lived in Christ, in the image of God, to the glory of God.
Speaker today is Colin Neufeld. Living Right now, means that I obey the Holy Spirit to grow in maturity, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Speaker today is Grant Morrison. Living Right now, means that I believe in faith the complete work of Christ and in Him alone, restoring my relationship to God.
Speaker today is Mark Grafe. Living Right now, means that I repent of my sins, turning away from them and turning to Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.
Living Right now, means that I confess my sins and am honest with God about my acts, attitude and nature that falls short of the glory that He created me for.
Living Right now, means that I accept the LORD, God Almighty as Sovereign overall and I submit to His authority over me.
Our guest speaker is Dave Penner, Past Director of Evangelical Free Church of Canada Missions.
Our guest speaker is Dave Penner, Past Director of Evangelical Free Church of Canada Missions.
We are privileged to have Pastor Terry Kaufman, Leadership Catalyst for the Evangelical Free Church of Canada, as our guest speaker today.
Weekly Reflection:
Read Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20-21 Do the research on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ:
Kirk Durston Josh MacDowell Lee Strobel
Talk with someone about your doubts and questions about Jesus, Church, Faith Consider and pray about what steps you could take to deepen your faith:
Bible Reading Small Group Regular Church attendance Courage to share your faith someone. What do you think of Easter?
Weekly Reflection:
Read the accounts of the Palm Sunday Week before Friday:
Monday: Matthew 21, 26-27 Tuesday: Mark 11, 14-15 Wednesday: Luke 19:28-20:26, 22-23 Thursday: John 12, 18, 19
Watch a movie:Jesusby The Jesus Film Project (Free on YouTube) orSon of GodMovie (2014) Watch one of the videos by Kirk Durston on the Resurrection ReadJesus: An Intimate Portrait of the Man, His Land, and His Peopleby Dr Leith Anderson
The writer of Hebrews wants the storm-tossed church to persevere in the faith until Christ's return. They needed to be both anchored and spurred on. We need it too.
Weekly Reflection:
Read 1 Peter 4:7-11 When you pray: ask the Holy Spirit to bring one person to mind each time you pray Phone call to 5 people Go for a walk with one person Is there one person that you could serve this week?
Weekly Reflection:
Read 1 Peter 4:1-6 each day. Where is it difficult to live the Christian life? Are there some ways that I need to bolder about my faith? Pray for one former friend whom you may need to sit and humbly share your faith with? Pray about an opening to have that conversation. Learn more about The Persecuted Church - The Voice of the Martyrs event online March 5
Weekly Reflection:
Read 1 Peter 4:1-6 each day.
Where is it difficult to live the Christian life? Are there some ways that I need to more bold about my faith? Is there a specific sin I need to confess and forsake?
Pray for one former friend whom you may need to sit and humbly share your faith with? Pray about an opening to have that conversation. Learn more about The Persecuted Church - The Voice of the Martyrs event online March 5