Oviedo City Church Sermons: Recent Episodes
Oviedo City Church
This sermon concludes our exploration of 2 Corinthians 8 and 9, where Paul calls the Corinthian church to embrace generosity. As if catching his breath, he ends with an outburst of praise and gratitude: "Thanks be to God for His inexpressible gift!" (2 Cor. 9:15). Here, Paul lifts our gaze, reminding us that our giving is but a faint reflection of God's boundless generosity toward us in Christ. On this Commitment Sunday, we're reminded that we give not out of guilt or obligation but from a heart of worship, transformed by God's generous grace. Join us as we commit to a Gospel-focused future together!
Have you ever felt obligated to give something to someone? Have you ever felt pressured to make a contribution or donation? That is just not enjoyable. On the flip side, have you ever been excited to give someone a gift, and the giving of it made you feel good? Have you ever given someone a gift, and their face lit up with joy, and then yours did, too? Why can't all of our gift-giving be of that second variety where both the giver and the recipient are thrilled, happy, and full of joy? That is the kind of giving God wants us to experience and that Paul writes about in this passage from 2 Corinthians.
Why do we do what we do? Why do we want what we want? Motivation. As we continue in our stewardship series, we will discover the biblical motivation for generosity. Paul writes, “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” (2 Cor. 8:9) When this truth takes hold of our hearts, generosity takes hold of our lives. Listen as we learn how the Gospel becomes our new motivation, cultivating a Gospel-focused future as a church!
“It’s not important who does the planting or watering. What matters is that God makes the seed grow“ (1 Cor. 3:7). At OCC, we’ve seen incredible growth, and we know it’s God making it happen! This growth brings joy as lives are transformed by the Gospel. It also brings new opportunities to expand our ministry and advance our vision to reach more people for Jesus. Listen in to the launch of our new series and initiative: Cultivate: A Gospel-Focused Future.
How do you keep your life from collapsing all around you? How do you remain strong as the storms of life batter you about? The storms will come. This week, we look at how Jesus wraps up the Sermon on the Mount with a final reminder that summarizes all we have heard from Him over the previous eighteen weeks. He brings it all together, giving us what we need to ensure we flourish and not fall apart when the winds and waves of life in a broken world threaten to undo us.
As we near the end of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, we confront some of His most sobering words: "I never knew you; depart from me." These words cut to the heart of what it truly means to follow Him. In this week's passage, Jesus reveals a startling reality: some, despite their knowledge, passion, and good works, will not enter the Kingdom. They call Him "Lord, Lord," yet miss the essence of what it means for Him to be Lord. Why? Take a listen as we explore what Jesus truly seeks: the total surrender of our will—a surrender that leads to true life and peace in His Kingdom.
Prayer seems to be a universal religious practice. It also is something that few people feel as if they do well or often enough. In this weeks message we will look at some of what Jesus taught about prayer. In His words we find both encouragement and challenges that give us the tools for a deeper and more rewarding prayer life as well as answer some of our most perplexing questions about unanswered prayer.
Have you ever heard a recording of your voice and found it jarring? It sounds so different from the sound in your head. To hear your own voice accurately, you need to listen closely.
The same applies to our faults. We often criticize others while ignoring our own shortcomings. Jesus said, "Judge not, that you be not judged." He calls us to examine our own failures—the log in our eye—before pointing out someone else's speck. He invites us to truly listen to ourselves for an accurate self-assessment.
Ever notice the constant stream of notifications we receive every day? Imagine if we received weekly worry notifications, showing us how many hours we spent fretting—about the past, the future, and things that never happen. Jesus tells us there's nothing to worry about because it's not our kingdom, it's God's. The best part? We follow the lead of the King, who isn't worried about anything. He is in complete control. Take a listen as we explore this challenging yet comforting truth and learn how to flourish by seeking His Kingdom first!
Have you ever gone swimming in the ocean, only to realize you’ve drifted far from where you started? It happens in an instant, often without our notice. As followers of Jesus, we often find ourselves caught in the strong currents of material wealth and distractions, losing sight of our true treasure. Jesus said, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
What was the last great meal you had? Do you remember how it tasted? The aroma? The people you shared it with? Eating is essential to being human (because, well, we need food), so why does Jesus talk about fasting in the Sermon on the Mount? Why does Jesus, himself, fast? Fasting is an ancient tradition, but it is so easily interpreted as "not eating". According to Jesus, fasting leads to a feast that transcends even the best meals that we have ever had.
We are thrilled to welcome Dela Adadevoh as our guest preacher this Sunday! Since 1980, Dela has authored several books and worked with Cru in the U.S., holding various leadership roles, including National Director of his home country of Ghana. He currently serves as the Vice President of Global Leadership. With a passion for seeing the gospel transform individuals and nations, Dela founded the International Leadership Foundation, where he serves as president. Dela and his wife, Elizabeth, have three children and four granddaughters. They have been longtime members of OCC, and we are blessed to have him lead us this Sunday as we continue our Flourish series!
We love movies! There's nothing like a talented actor to make you laugh, scream, or cry. While these performers are perfect for the screen, Jesus has a different view of those who put on an act for Him. He calls them hypocrites. Jesus seeks authenticity in our lives, not acting. Join us this Sunday as we learn how Jesus fights for our hearts and calls us from phony righteousness to authentic righteousness, allowing us to flourish in the Kingdom!
G.K. Chesterton once wrote, "The Bible tells us to love our neighbors, and also to love our enemies; probably because generally they are the same people." So, who is your enemy? Is it the neighbor, coworker, or family member with different ideologies, or the one who mocks Christianity? We might all answer this question differently. But regardless of who our enemies are, Jesus calls us to one of the most challenging parts of his teachings: to love them. Take a listen as we continue our series on the Sermon on the Mount and explore the profound truth found in the gospel, that Jesus never asks us to do something without providing the grace we need to fulfill it.
Jesus is relentless. He confronts us on our anger, lust, and now, our words. Each of us grapples with broken promises, white lies, or hurting others. This unveils our need for healing in both our hearts and speech. Amidst a sea of untruths, Jesus calls us, as Kingdom people, to speak Kingdom words—buoys of grace and truth.
Fire can be life-giving, providing comfort and warmth in a fireplace, but it can also cause great destruction when it spreads beyond its boundaries. Sex is much like fire. In the next section of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus confronts the powerful force of human sexuality and the destructive power of lust in our hearts. However, the gospel brings good news: Jesus doesn't shame us in our sexual brokenness but seeks to heal us, enabling us to flourish in His Kingdom.
What comes to mind when you hear "the law"? Order, restrictions, or breaking the rules? Probably not “flourishing” or “thriving.” Yet that's precisely why God gave us His law—so that we might live in right relationship with Him and others. There's only one problem: none of us can keep it! Enter Jesus, who came not to abolish the law but to fulfill it. Take a listen as we learn what this means for us today and how it leads to a flourishing life in His Kingdom.
Are you salty? Not in terms of your attitude, but in terms of your life? If you're a Christian, the answer is most certainly "yes." Jesus says, “You are the salt of the earth" (Matt. 5:13). Following Jesus frees us to accept this new identity. Your life brings the flavor of the Kingdom into a world that desperately needs it. Take a listen as we continue our series on the Sermon on the Mount, learning to more fully embrace who we are: the salt and light of the world!
This Sunday, we'll pick up where we left off last week, exploring some of Jesus' most profound and puzzling words—the Beatitudes. Consider, for instance, "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." Is this a tit-for-tat situation? Does it imply that if we show mercy, we'll receive God's mercy in return? How does this align with the gospel? Join us as we discover that—far from contradicting the gospel—this Beatitude actually encapsulates it, revealing its natural outcome. Take a listen as we discover God’s flourishing Kingdom life together!
Have you ever pondered what it truly means to flourish? Amidst the clash of conflicting ideas in today's world, Jesus offers a clear path for thriving in his Kingdom. Discover how Jesus not only imparts radical wisdom on flourishing but also ignites the power within us to live it out through His gospel of radical grace. Take a listen as we explore our new series on the Sermon on the Mount — Flourish: Life in the Kingdom!
It is unusual these days to see a smooth leadership transition in a church. It is also unusual, but not unheard of, that the outgoing leader stays on and takes a supportive role in the church. Yet, in the early church, the nature of mentoring/discipleship relationships, meant that it was more the norm than not. Paul's relationship with the young pastors, Timothy and Titus, is a great example.
At OCC we are blessed to be able to carry on that biblical model. This Sunday Pastor Dan will be handing the Lead Pastor reigns to Pastor Pete as Dan takes on a new role as Pastor for Discipleship and Church Planting at OCC. As part of that process, Pastor Dan will preach a different kind of sermon. It will be a charge to both Pete and the congregation on the importance of keeping a Gospel-focused ministry into the future.
Ever been on a road trip with family or friends, arguing over which playlist to put on the speakers? Sometimes life with Jesus feels like listening to two competing melodies: radical grace vs. radical discipleship. Which wins? The amazing grace of the gospel or the call to obey? Find out how Jesus' final "I am” statement invites us to play both tunes at full volume, finding harmony in our union with Christ. Don't miss this Sunday as we conclude our "I AM" series together!
What do we do when life's unexpected punches leave us flat on the mat? How do we rise again? Where do we turn? These questions echo the experience of one family who faced the loss of their brother, Lazarus. As we journey through Jesus' "I am” statements, we encounter a story brimming with hope. This week, we are confronted with the profound truth of Easter, expressed in Jesus' words: "I am the Resurrection and the Life."
How many times have you stumbled around in the dark looking for something, or stubbed your toe on the leg of the bed in the middle of the night? Stubbing your toe in the dark is one thing. Crashing into a spiritual or emotional wall in the darkness of life is quite another. Jesus promises to be the light in such darkness. But what does that mean in real life? How can we walk in the light when the darkness is closing in?
How do we try to attain freedom in life? Usually through rebellion or religion. But Jesus tells us there is only one path to true freedom: relationship. As we explore the "I Am" statements of Jesus, we’ll see how He emphasizes that He is the doorway to this vital connection. He is the gateway to genuine freedom, where abundant life awaits! Take a listen as we discover the richness of life that is available through a transformative relationship with Jesus.
When you reflect on your life's journey, how do you define yourself? Is it by your job, your circumstances, or the voices within? Amidst the clamor, we often hear: "I am unsatisfied, alone, anxious, afraid. I am empty, lost, disconnected." Yet there is a stronger, eternally secure "I Am" for which we were made, which is the center of reality. The Great I Am, who revealed himself to Moses and walked among us, invites us to know Him.
Have you ever tried people watching? Jesus did. In Mark 12, we encounter a poignant story where Jesus observed a poor widow sacrificially offering two coins at the temple. He not only acknowledged her generosity but also praised her dependence on God to his disciples. Two thousand years later, this small act of radical generosity continues to inspire God's people. In this sermon, we will delve into the biblical principle that we are called to give, not because Jesus desires our money, but because he desires our hearts. He claims our hearts through the power of his generosity. And when he has our hearts, anything is possible!
The very idea of evangelism gives some people heartburn. The thought of talking to people about deeply personal religious convictions is out of bounds for many of us. Having seen over-zealous people make a complete mess of sharing Jesus only adds to the anxiety most of us feel when it comes to telling others about Jesus. But what if it didn't have to be so threatening? What if you could actually find joy in letting skeptical people find out about Jesus? Would that change the equation for you? Or maybe you are someone who is still wondering if Jesus even fits in your life and what it could mean for you.
When it comes to studying the Bible, we often fall into two camps: feeling discouraged because we can’t find the time, or feeling proud because we do. Are those really our only two options? This week, we’ll look at Jesus' encounter with Nicodemus, a Pharisee renowned for his profound grasp of Scripture. In this story, Jesus offers a new motivation to engage with His word—one that goes beyond feelings of inadequacy or pride. Take a listen as we explore God’s Word together!
In this week’s Scripture, Jesus sneaks up, incognito, on two discouraged disciples. He asks some seemingly patronizing questions, calls them slow of heart, then delivers a compelling sermon about how all of Scripture revolves around him. Suddenly, the disciples find their “slow hearts” transformed into “burning hearts” and they gather the believers to share the story. Take a listen as we experience the transformative power of gathering together around the gospel. Who knows? God might even sneak up on us!
Jesus makes it clear that He came in order to serve, and He ultimately served us by giving His life in ransom for our eternal life. He calls His followers to be servants as well. The world outside the church has learned that serving is key, servant leadership is all the rage, and a service economy drives our nation. Service in the name of Christ that leads people to Him is to be the hallmark of the church and demonstrate to the world what real service looks like.
Of all the things Jesus’ disciples could ask for, one of their most pressing requests was: "Lord, teach us to pray." It wasn’t "Teach us to heal like you" or "Teach us to preach like you" but "Teach us to pray." After walking with Jesus, they observed that the power behind all he did was prayer—Kingdom-shaking prayer. It was intimacy with the Father, and for Jesus, it was like breathing. Take a listen as we learn how we too are given such intimate access to God through the same Kingdom-shaking prayers that Jesus prayed!
What would happen if you were dying of thirst, and all that was available was saltwater? Well...you'd still be dying of thirst. Spiritually speaking, this is often our predicament. We attempt to quench our souls with things that do not satisfy, such as comfort, control, and the approval of others. We drink from broken wells, revealing our broken worship in need of repair. But there is hope. We'll discover how a Samaritan woman not only recognized her deepest need but quenched her deepest thirst when she encountered the only One worthy of our worship—Christ, the Living Water.
Every year on the first Sunday, we look at what lies ahead for OCC, anticipating what God will do. This year is no different, except we think God is going to do even more amazing things than in the past. You won't want to miss getting the inside scoop as we look into the future so we can dream about, pray for and celebrate what we believe God is doing and will continue to do in 2024.
What are you afraid of? The future? Failure? Rejection? Beneath all of those fears lies a deeper question: Is God for me? Will God love me? This Christmas Eve, let's reconsider the shepherds who were filled with great fear when they encountered an angelic army shining with God's glory. Their fear was cast out by the angel’s announcement: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).
Have you ever tried to figure out what God was doing in a situation and just could not wrap your mind around it? Have you ever had times when the nature of God was bewildering and didn't make sense? Have you ever been in the position of trying to figure out what God wanted you to do and couldn't? There are lots of times when the things of God are confusing and bewildering. How should we respond in those times? Are there any clues in Scripture? The encounter that Mary had with the angel who told her what God's plan was is a great place to find wisdom in our own times of confusion. Join us on Sunday as we are reminded how God is "With Us" in our confusion.
When was the last time you belly-laughed? Laughed so hard that it hurt so good? There's nothing quite like it. That's because we were made for joy – and made for the Author of joy! Join us this week as we come to the part of the Christmas story when Elizabeth's baby leaps for joy as pregnant Mary arrives on the scene. Like the child in Elizabeth’s womb greeting Immanuel, God With Us, we too get to celebrate this Good News: Jesus has come to bring us His eternal joy!
You've heard of Doubting Thomas. What about Doubting Zechariah? In this week's Advent message, we’ll witness doubts emerging in the Christmas story. After decades of disappointment, Zechariah is told that his prayer will finally be answered in his old age. Skepticism fills him. Yet even in his doubt, God is with him. This is good news for the doubters among us. Join us this week as we discover how Jesus helps us leap into the light of His grace.
What is guaranteed in life? Some might cynically say "death and taxes," but as human beings, we know there are many other certainties: fear and joy, confusion and doubt, and countless times of waiting. However, the greatest assurance is the reminder that Christmas brings: God is with us.
Join us this Advent season as we reflect on the profound story of God taking on flesh to be with us. He is with us in the midst of our fear and joy, our confusion and doubt, and our times of waiting. Together, let's celebrate Emmanuel, God with us, who is Christ the Lord!
What will heaven be like? It is a question that is asked often. The answer has been depicted in movies, books, paintings, poems and even cartoons. A vast majority of the time the answers are completely wrong. The Apostle Paul gives us a picture of heaven in our final message from 1 Corinthians this week as we explore chapter 15 and what the Resurrection from the dead is all about.
We've all witnessed a child’s tantrum. Whether it's our child or someone else's, we feel helpless when nothing seems to calm them down. Yet we know “this too shall pass” because children grow up and mature. But what happens when adults have tantrums and haven't grown up? That’s the issue Paul addresses in the well-known “love passage” of 1 Corinthians 13. The Corinthians are in dire need of growing up in the love of Christ, and if we're honest, so are we. Join us this week as we encounter the power to grow in our capacity to love (1 Cor. 13:11).
he sensation of having your home light up when the power returns after a blackout is glorious. Suddenly, all the lifeless appliances and electronics pulse with energy, illuminating our everyday lives. That power pales in comparison to what happens when the Spirit of the Living God enlivens our hearts, bringing us His spiritual gifts. As we continue our way through 1 Corinthians, we will see how God has uniquely gifted each of us in order to light up our community and world as the body of Christ!
What is true freedom? What is self-control? Would it surprise you that the answers to those two questions are connected? As we continue in 1 Corinthians this Sunday, we will learn that only the gospel of Jesus gives genuine freedom—a freedom that empowers us to control the desires that once controlled us. This gospel liberates us to run life's race as we pursue Jesus together!
Have you ever noticed how much arguing takes place over little things? Why do we get so worked up over things that are of secondary importance at best and miss the big important things? As we have seen all along in our study of 1 Corinthians, things have really not changed in 2,000 years. The Corinthians argued over things that were not nearly as important as they thought they were. As a result, they threatened to destroy the church. How can we learn from them so we can determine what is really important and what is not?
As part of our OCC Institute Forum weekend, we're so thrilled to have Sara Stevenson join us as our Guest Speaker on Sunday. Sara is a member of the speaking team for The Oxford Center for Christian Apologetics (OCCA). She has an Education Degree in Religious Studies from Queens University, a Master's Degree in Philosophy of Science and Religion from Edinburgh University and a Certificate in Apologetics from OCCA. She is a highly sought-after speaker who brings a tremendous amount of passion, energy and spiritual insight when she speaks. Take a listen as we continue our "Real Problems, Gospel Solutions" series!
Paul writes, “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food…” Does that sound weird to you? It appears Paul is echoing a familiar catchphrase that the Corinthians were using to rationalize their highly sexualized lifestyle. Their mindset was: if you have an appetite, indulge it. Paul challenges this attitude with a countercultural biblical vision for sex and sexuality—a vision that not only embodies truth but is also inherently good and beautiful. Take a listen as we grapple with the real problems of our sexual brokenness and explore the healing power found in the gospel.
Have you ever had a bad sunburn? It hurts like anything! You're so sensitive that even the slightest touch can send you writhing in pain. Within each and every heart there is another excessive sensitivity – our ego. It's why we bristle at criticism and feel snubbed when things don't go our way. And it's why the church in Corinth was filled with so much arguing and boasting. But Paul shows another way. A way where there is a calmness and confidence that doesn't come from others or even ourselves. It is a humility that is only found in the Good News of Jesus Christ. Take a listen as we continue to examine the real problems we all face and the gospel solutions found in 1 Corinthians!
We live in a time when society is polarized as never before. People divide into camps over nearly every issue that comes up in conversation, be it political, ethical, cultural, or a host of other issues, people are divided and angry and show very little grace to one another. The church in Corinth, which should have been united in Christ and His mission was experiencing division over the most minor of issues which Paul said was scandalous. Where do we find our unity and how do we overcome divisions in the Body of Christ so the world may know Jesus?
They were a new church, new to Jesus, and they were… a hot mess. The Corinthian Church was divisive, prideful, lustful and looked more like their city than Jesus. They struggled with serious problems, just like us. And yet, as we'll see together, the Good News of Jesus brought real solutions to their problems. Take a listen as we explore 1 Corinthians, one of the most transformative letters of the New Testament!
"Put out into the deep... for a catch." When Jesus spoke those words to Peter, you can only imagine Peter's gut reaction: "I'm the fisherman; you're the carpenter – stay in your lane." However, scripture tells us that Peter simply said, "Master, we toiled all night and caught nothing! But at your word, I'll go." Peter would go on to make the biggest catch of his career. As a result, Jesus changed the entire course of his life, leading him to leave the shallow waters of living and venture into the deep discipleship that Jesus calls each one of us to. It's a life of adventure and informed risk. Take a listen as we conclude our 7 Strands of DNA series!
Disciple making can sound like a daunting task best left to the theological experts and ministry professionals. Yet Jesus made it clear that making disciples is what every follower of Christ is called to do, no matter their theological sophistication or their occupation. So how can something that seems so daunting become a joy-filled, life-giving endeavor in your life as a follower of Jesus? This week we explore the next strand in our DNA as a church and what it can mean for each of us to experience being used by Jesus to help people become more like Him.
Have you ever built a Lego set? There’s something satisfying about snapping those bricks together—so satisfying that Lego is the most valuable toy brand in the world, worth $7.4 billion! People love Legos because they're made to connect. Perhaps we also love them because we know we were made for the same purpose. Each of us is made to connect in relationship with God and others. That’s why Small Groups are vital for us as we follow Jesus together.
Have you ever heard your favorite song played badly? It can be downright painful! When we follow Jesus, we join in his melody of loving and serving others. But unless we tune our hearts to the truth of the gospel, our lives can sound like bad karaoke! It’s crucial to remember that "the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45).
We can all think of the leaders in our lives. Whether they are bosses, teachers, coaches, pastors... you can think of some authority figure that impacts you. But how often do we think of ourselves? As Christians, we have ALL been given the authority to lead through serving God and others. One of the 7 Strands of DNA that binds together Oviedo City Church is Intergenerational Leadership.
The Gospel is the heart of the message of Jesus and yet it may be one of the most misunderstood aspects of the Christian faith. Could it be that our understanding of the Gospel is too shallow? It is more than a golden ticket to Heaven that most people think it is. It is the key that unlocks all of life, now and forever. It is the truth that makes sense of who we are, why we are here, and what the future holds.
It is the most purchased book in history. It is the most controversial book in history. It has influenced world events as no other book ever written. It claims to be the Word of God and has been known to change lives as no other book. At OCC, it is the foundation of who we are and what we do. Being biblically driven is the first strand in our DNA.
Have you ever driven down a dead-end street? Maybe Google Maps wasn’t updated or there were no signs. It’s frustrating and confusing. The book of Ecclesiastes can seem like a long list of dead ends. Pleasure, possessions, control, certainty…none of these lead to the fulfilling destination they seem to promise. Take a listen, as we come to the end of our journey in Ecclesiastes, we'll find this: "The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man" (Ecc. 12:13). Thankfully, these directions don't lead to a dead end, but to a satisfying vista where we can behold the glory, goodness, and grace of God!
We all want certainty. Certainty of our health, relationships, jobs, finances… the future. Yet no matter how hard we try to manage our lives, stuff happens and certainty escapes us. God promises something greater than certainty in this world. He gives hope. Biblical hope isn't wishy-washy or wishful thinking; it is rugged and robust. It is the ballast that stabilizes us today and anchors us in eternity.
Time seems to holler at us, haunt us, pressure us and some days even mock us. No matter how much we try to control time (and our lives!), time seems to control us. This week we come to the most well-known section of Ecclesiastes. In it we’re told why we are so frustrated by time and our lack of control: God has put eternity in our hearts (Ecc. 3:11). This means we are made for much more than the perplexing circumstances of life. We were made for an Eternal King who is in control of time…and our lives.
What would happen if each of us sought out as much pleasure as we could? If we took whatever we wanted? We don’t have to try this dangerous experiment because the writer of Ecclesiastes already did. He writes: “… whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them. I kept my heart from no pleasure” (Ecc. 2:10). He also reports the bleak results: “It was all so meaningless—like chasing the wind” (v. 11). He quickly discovered that worldly pleasures don’t deliver on their promises. In fact, they are just a faint echo of the infinite joy found in God Himself.
Ecclesiastes 1:1-11
This week begins a new sermon series; Restless Heart. For the next six weeks we will be exploring Ecclesiastes, an Old Testament book of wisdom that asks some tough questions about life. First up is the question of meaning, in other words, why are we here? Do we have any real purpose in life? What is the meaning of all that we go through from birth to death? Where is God when things seem absurd and meaningless and is there any hope?
James ends his letter with a call to prayer. It is prayer in the midst of any and every life situation, joy, suffering, physical illness and more. This week we will be doing something a little different as we wrap up this wonderful series. We will learn about prayer but then we will also take time to pray. As part of our response to God's Word, our elders and prayer team will be available to pray with you about anything that is going on in your life. There will be prayer for healing, not only physically but spiritually and emotionally as well. We are expecting God to do amazing things as a result of those prayers.
It was a pleasure being able to welcome Dr. Steve Brown as our guest preacher! Dr. Brown is a broadcaster, seminary professor, and author, as well as the founder and president of Key Life Network. He is also a regular attender here at OCC!
This week's passage in James reminds us that Scripture has teeth. It's not a book of hollow platitudes and inspirational sayings. It’s the living word of God, and it fights for our hearts because God fights for our hearts. Like a skillful surgeon, James cuts deep so that nothing—not our plans, not our goals, not our finances—will take the place of God in our hearts. Take a listen as we worship the only One worthy of our trust!
"Who is wise and understanding among you?" That’s a challenging question---one that James invites each of us to consider for ourselves. We might find that we have wisdom from below, full of jealousy and selfish ambition, which is really no wisdom at all. Or we might uncover wisdom from above, which is pure, peace-loving, gentle, open to reason and full of mercy. Take a listen as we learn about the battle of these warring “wisdoms,” as well as the barrier and beginning of true wisdom.
So often in our world, we are drawn to the big, the powerful, the impressive. We think those are the things that make an impact. So often we try for the big and the dramatic to make our lives better. Yet James tells us that it is often the small, overlooked things that can make the biggest difference for good or ill. Our experience tells us that we often overlook the little things to our own peril. Where do God and the Gospel fit into the little things in life and how can they make a huge, positive impact in your life?
This week James really gets in our business, asking questions like: Is your faith dead? Is your faith domesticated? Does it pulsate with the life-changing love of Jesus? The stakes are high in this passage as we look at the truth that we are saved by faith alone—but it is a faith that is not alone.
There is a great deal of confusion in our world about the nature, place, and even value of religion. Some people see it as old-fashioned superstition, others as something harmful and dangerous, yet others as something to devote their lives to. So what's the deal? Are we missing something? And if so, what is it and what benefit can it have in our lives, if any? Is it possible that we completely misunderstand what religion is supposed to be all about? Have we gotten it all wrong?
Who knows the most about us—the good and the bad? Our families, of course! One surprising thing about the Bible is that we have a whole book from Jesus’ brother, James. Can you imagine growing up with Jesus? James had a front row seat to his life and ministry and was thoroughly convinced that Jesus was indeed ”the Lord of glory!" (2:1). In his New Testament letter, James teaches us what real faith looks like in real life, inviting us to serve God wholeheartedly and radically.
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been exploring some of the major questions about Christianity in our “Asking for a Friend” series. This week, we’ll look at the question “Why is Jesus the only way?” through the lens of Pilate’s interrogation of Jesus, when he asked “What is truth?” (John 18:38). Listen in as we begin Holy Week and examine why Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life!
One of the most powerful objections to Christianity is when Christians don't live according to their own standards, yet claim to be better than "those sinners" out there. Jesus called this hypocrisy and had some harsh words for the religious hypocrites of his day. How do we avoid hypocrisy while at the same time acknowledging our weaknesses?
As part of our OCC Institute Forum weekend, the message this week will be a little bit different. As we focus on the issue of God and Suffering, we will hear from our two key presenters from the forum, Dr. Sharon Dirckx and Simon Edwards. They are two highly sought-after speakers who come to us from Oxford, England. Along with Pastor Dan, they will have a time of discussion that focuses on a wide variety of questions concerning faith, suffering, and who we are as human beings.
"God, are you there?" If we're honest, we've all asked this question at some point. Whether you're a committed Christian, skeptic, or atheist, it’s likely you’ve wondered if God is just a concept we've invented to cope with life. Or could it be that there really is more to this extraordinary universe we live in? This week, we'll learn that our deepest intuitions on life, love and meaning are actually whispers of a God who knows us—and who wants us to know him.
Tests. None of us like them. They can push us to our very limits. And yet a moment of testing proves to be the pinnacle of Abraham's story. He is tested by God with the unthinkable: to sacrifice his promised son, Isaac. With this test comes the foundational question that confronts all of us: Do we want the blessings of God more than we want God?
Tests. None of us like them. They can push us to our very limits. And yet a moment of testing proves to be the pinnacle of Abraham's story. He is tested by God with the unthinkable: to sacrifice his promised son, Isaac. With this test comes the foundational question that confronts all of us: Do we want the blessings of God more than we want God?
Can you recall a time that something you had been waiting on for a long time was finally delivered? Maybe it was a car you had been saving for, a degree you had been working towards, or a job you had been interviewing for. The feeling when it finally happened was most likely overwhelming to say the least. That was true for Sarah and Abraham who had waited over 10 years for a promised child to be born to them.
Have you ever experienced the gap between a promise and reality? You know, the time between when a promise is made to you and when it is actually fulfilled. We all have – and it can be trying! Whether it's at work or home, or whether it's in our relationship with God. In Genesis 15 that's exactly what Abraham encountered. And yet, it's in that gap that Abraham's trust and relationship with God strengthened in order to more fully live out the mission God called him to.
God calls all of us to follow Him. Jesus made that perfectly clear when He told people to lay down their fishing nets, close up their tax offices, set aside their own plans, and become His disciples. Following Gods plan always involves laying down something of our own plans. It requires giving up something. But what God promised Abraham, and what Jesus promises you, is always far more than you can ever give up. That doesn't mean it is always easy to follow Jesus. But, it is always more rewarding then we ever anticipated.
"The only thing constant is change.” When Heraclitus said that he was on to something that we all feel. The world around us and the world inside us is always shifting. It is hard to get a bearing on life when everything seems to be moving. But Heraclitus was wrong about one thing. There is one thing, one person who never changes.
Have you ever moved, started a new job, or experienced another major life change? Some changes bring excitement, some bring challenges, but all bring disruption. Our lives are not the same. Salvation is the ultimate, "divine disruption" that redefines our lives in surprising ways. The new creation that broke into the world through the resurrection is transforming us and making us new.
The Bible is clear that one thing we can take comfort in is the never-changing nature of God. You can count on God being the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. The Bible is also clear on another thing; God is in the changing business. He has promised ever since sin entered the world that He is on a mission to redeem, renew, and restore it. That includes us. God doesn't just want to tweak our lives and make them a smidge better. He wants to bring us from darkness to light, from death to life. He wants to transform us and our lives in a new relationship with Him.
Where do you hide your Christmas gifts? In order to keep the surprise, we usually have to tuck them in unexpected places---and hope we remember where to find them! What reassurance we have in knowing that the greatest gift, Jesus Christ, is not hidden from us. Though he arrived in an unexpected place to an unlikely couple, God worked through these seemingly disgraceful circumstances to reveal the perfect gift of His grace. Join us as we finish our series, An Imperfect Christmas, and celebrate our greatest gift: Emmanuel, God with us!
Ridiculed, rejected, ostracized: not experiences we would ever want to suffer through. The very notion of being an outcast brings with it feelings of shame and unworthiness. Yet, when it comes to deciding who gets to see Jesus first, it is shepherds, an ostracized group of outcasts who are visited by an angelic host and sent to see the newborn King. One reality of the message of the birth of Jesus is that we who have been cast out from the Garden are invited into the presence of the King of Kings.
It is one thing to be rejected. It is another thing altogether to be unknown, invisible, of no account or impact. We want to know that our life matters, that we matter. But what if you are ignored, if nobody noticed you, and if you were gone, nobody would miss you? Zechariah and Elizabeth were two people of no account in their world. They were irrelevant until God stepped in and changed their world and ours. How can you know if you, and your life, matter to God?
Have you ever been snubbed, ignored, or dismissed? If so, you're in good company! Isaiah, the most quoted prophet in the New Testament, was completely disregarded during his lifetime. Even before he began prophesying, God told him that no one would listen to him! And yet, in an imperfect situation, Isaiah was unstoppable. He persevered in telling of the One who would be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
It's the hap-happiest season of all! Or is it? Sometimes the Christmas holidays begin with expectation and end with disappointment (and debt!). We aim for a perfect "Martha Stewart" holiday but end up with the dysfunctional "Clark Griswold" version. But the wonder of Christmas is this: right in the midst of our imperfection and weakness is where we encounter the perfection and strength of God. Scripture shows us how God works through sinful people and hopeless situations to reveal the life-changing power of His grace, found in a manger.
We often speak of God as being all-powerful, all-knowing, and omnipresent, which can make it seem like God is unlimited. But how true is that? Are there limits to God? If so, what are they, and how do they impact our lives and our relationship with God? If there are limits on God, wouldn't that mean there is something or someone greater than God that can limit Him? Or does it?
Bad things seem to be happening more and more. Evil appears to be gaining the upper hand on a daily basis. If God is good, where did all this evil come from? Did God create evil? Will good triumph? These are questions people have been asking for thousands of years.
Have you ever ignored your car's check engine light? Or thought, "I'll get to that maintenance later”—only to find that one morning, your car doesn’t start? Life has its own “check engine” light, which flashes at us when we’re hurried, harried, and overextended. But God has literally built into creation a time for soul maintenance: the Sabbath. It's a time to stop, rest, and delight in the goodness of God. This week in our “Limited” series, we’ll learn what it means to keep the Sabbath and let our bodies and souls rest in the grace of Jesus.
There's a 4-letter word that makes all of us react: W-O-R-K. Some of us love it and some of us hate it. Some “live to work” and others “work to live.” But the biblical vision defies these two categories. Jesus is calling us to something so much greater—work that leads to deeper contentment in Him.
Life's demands can feel unending. We make to-do lists, we multitask, we get up early and work late—all to improve our productivity. And it works! Well, kind of. Sometimes the more we get done, the emptier we feel. We constantly come up against our limits. In our new series, “Limited,” we’ll discover the liberating truth that God, our Creator, gives us limits for a reason. And that really is good news!
It has been said that nearly every counseling situation is a matter of someone needing to be forgiven, somebody who needs to forgive or both. Some of us have a hard time forgiving those who hurt us. Others have a hard time receiving forgiveness. Jesus tells a compelling story of failure to forgive and the tragic repercussions that ensue.
To feel safe and secure in life, what resources do we need? How much is enough? Jesus said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed” (Luke 12:15). We often think of greed as love of money, yet excessive anxiety about money is also a form of greed. As we’ll discover this Sunday in the parable of the rich fool, Jesus calls us to a better way—and cares for us better than money ever could.
What's the most foolish thing you've ever done? It's an uncomfortable question. Our foolish behavior reveals our tendency to build our lives on something other than Christ. But as we’ll see in this week’s message on the wise and foolish builders, Jesus offers us a firm foundation that can withstand any storm—even the storm of our own foolishness.
Have you ever had a moment or situation that you look back on and say to yourself, "I should have been there" or "I should have done that"? Not as a feeling of regret, but more as a realization of priority? What are the most important things to give our time and attention to and how do we sort out the things that are not worthy of our affections? As we look at the Parable of the Great Banquet this Sunday, we get to answer some of these questions and others.
These parables are two of the shortest of Jesus' parables, but they are nevertheless very meaningful. In only three verses, Jesus is able to encapsulate the worth of the Kingdom of Heaven, and the Christian's desire to devote their whole lives to the Kingdom. How do we let this desire for the Kingdom of Heaven grow within us?
The Parable of the Good Samaritan may be one of the two most famous parables in the Bible. The story of someone helping a stranger who was in distress is inspiring but can also make you feel overwhelmed with guilt that you need to help every person you see throughout your day. There is a lot more to this parable that actually points us to Jesus and the work he does in our lives. Join us Sunday as we dive in.
Prayer is a big topic with lots of questions about how it works, why some get answered, and others don't. Justice may be one of the hottest topics in society today causing no small amount of debate and even arguments. Jesus, never afraid to deal with tough topics, combines both prayer and justice into one parable that is sometimes called The Persistent Widow, and other times, The Unjust Judge. So why do some prayers get answered and others don't and what in the world does any of that have to do with justice? Join us on Sunday as we unpack Luke 18:1-8.
We all love stories! Philosopher James K. A. Smith writes: "Stories seep into us… and stay there and haunt us—more than a report on the facts.” Is it any wonder that Jesus spent much of his ministry telling stories? These stories, or “parables,” were ordinary stories that spoke of an extraordinary kingdom—a kingdom of His loving rule and reign. Jesus said, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear" (Mark 4:9). Join us this Sunday as we begin our new series, “Parables,” and seek to listen together. And who knows…we might just discover how Jesus uses even the most ordinary stories of our lives to bear witness to His extraordinary Kingdom!
We all forget things, whether it's our keys, where we parked, someone's name, or a special anniversary. But the most devastating thing we could ever forget is the explosive power of Jesus' sacrificial love. Isn’t it amazing how God doesn't leave it up to our forgetful, fickle hearts to remember? Rather, He regularly calls us around His table to give us the Lord’s Supper, which strengthens us spiritually as we follow Him together. For as surely as we taste the bread and drink the wine, we are nourished and refreshed by His love. Join us this Sunday as we conclude our series "Why Do We Do That?” and celebrate the Lord’s Supper.
Baptism is one of the two most universally practiced Christian rituals. As such, you would think there was near universal agreement about what it means, how it is done, and who participates. Sadly, the opposite is true. Particularly for the last 500 years there has been much debate and arguing and even bloodshed, over something intended to show the unity of all followers of Jesus. Is it possible to find a way forward? We will explore that question this Sunday as well as baptize some folks into the covenant family of God's people.
Do you ever feel like you’re constantly being preached at? Whether it's by marketers or legislators, social media or news feeds, these voices can infuriate and exhaust us. This is not the preaching our souls crave. We need preaching that challenges us and comforts us, exposes us and satisfies us. We need preaching that isn't about “us” but about the One who loved us and gave Himself up for us. Join us this Sunday as we look at why we preach the One who is the Living Word!
CS Lewis says “I do not believe one can settle how much we ought to give. I am afraid the only safe rule is to give more than we can spare.” We serve God and we serve others through the giving of our time, our talents and our treasure. This is a way we love God and love others. The question is why do we do this? Join us as we dive into this on Sunday!
Why does the church gather? Is it because "it's what good Christians do"? Is it because we're looking for the church to meet our consumer needs? Is it simply habit or routine?
No! We gather as the church not to check a religious box, but to be part of the countercultural Kingdom revolution that Jesus is building through his people. Jesus calls us together to worship Him and to grow us deeper in faith, hope, and love for the sake of His mission and His glory. Find out more when we gather for worship this Sunday!
Do you ever try to manage your disappointment? Whether it’s unmet expectations, frustrations and hurt or even the death of a dream. But what happens when it all becomes unmanageable? Psalm 4 shows us that we actually don’t need to manage or bury our disappointments but rather pray them back to God. Surprisingly, when we do that we are met with the very presence and joy of Jesus. Join us this Sunday to see how this Psalm teaches our heart how to sing even in the face of disappointment!
There is a season to every activity and to every emotion. God created us that way. But what happens when the emotion is anger? And what happens when that anger is towards God? How do we handle that? How do we approach God honestly and respectfully? We are looking to answer these questions as we study the 69th Psalm this week! Come join us this Sunday!
What do you want to get out of life? What would give you the sense that you have arrived, you've made it, your life is full and nothing important is missing? Have you ever found real contentment and peace? We live in a world that is marked by anxiety, striving, and feeling unsatisfied. What does real contentment and peace look like? Where can you find them? This Sunday we look at Psalm 131 and what it means to find peace and contentment in life.
We all hate waiting. “Are we there yet?” is a constant refrain, whether it's the kids on a summer road trip or the rest of us waiting on a job, a test result, or a break from the routine.
As we continue in our series on the Psalms, we'll look at Psalm 130, a song of waiting. In it, we hear the psalmist cry out for the mercy of God. He is waiting for relief and forgiveness; He is waiting for the Lord. Like the psalmist, we too can learn to wait on the Lord. And when we do, we discover that nothing is ever wasted in our waiting. "For with the LORD there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption." -Psalm 130:7
It would be wonderful if at every moment of the day, in all the significant events of life, in even the most mundane of times, that we deeply experienced the presence of God. Yet the hard truth is that there are times in life, sometimes during the hardest times, that we wonder if God is even there, and if He is there, does He really care. In Psalm 22 we find a powerful expression of what it is like to feel abandoned by God. Yet we also find great rejoicing in the end. This is a gut-wrenching yet brutally honest song about a hard season in life. But it is also a song of great hope in those hard seasons.
In a world filled with uncertainty at seemingly every turn, what can you rely on to give you assurance and certainty for the next day or decade or eternity? Psalm 16 is up next in our series and in it we find a God we can count on no matter what, so that we can move into the future with humble confidence.
Identity crisis? We've all been there. Whether as awkward adolescents or anxious adults. We live in a world where so many are questioning their identity. This season of crisis finds us when we've forgotten who we are...and whose we are. But what if there was a song that has the power to remind us of our identity and the greatness of our Creator? Join us this Sunday as we continue in our new series and dive into Psalm 8, a song of identity!
What are the foundational things you believe that guide your life? Do you know what they are? A worldview is the lens you view life through, the things you believe that shape how you approach life. Everyone has a worldview, even if you can't identify it. In Psalm 1 we find wisdom from God's Word on how to evaluate our worldview and live with eyes wide open to the world around us.
Have you ever noticed how often gardens are a part of the biblical story? From the beginning we find ourselves in the Garden of Eden. In the end, in Revelation 22, the last chapter of the Bible, we get a description of eternity that includes a garden as the dwelling place of God and humanity. In between, at the lynchpin of history, Jesus rises from the grave in a garden. What does all this tell us about God and ourselves? You may be surprised at the answer this Sunday as we celebrate Easter and the Resurrection of Jesus!
Acts 28:11-31 We admire people who take bold steps to accomplish great things. Yet most of us, if we admit it, are not naturally that way. Maybe that’s why we admire those who are. As we wrap up our journey through the Book of Acts, we find Paul continuing to “boldly preach the Gospel” even though he is under arrest and facing a potential death sentence. Where does that kind of boldness come from and how can you obtain it? Join us Sunday to find out.
Acts 27: 39 - Acts 28:10 Have you ever felt like things have gone from bad to worse? Have you wondered where God was in the midst of that? The Apostle Paul had a life filled with hardship and struggle in ways that go far beyond what most of us could ever imagine. Just when you would think it could not get any worse, it did. How do you find God in the middle of the mess? This week we find Paul in just that situation. Join us as we dive into this on Sunday!
Acts 24: 22-27 Are you a procrastinator? (If you would prefer to answer that later, you have your answer.) Felix the Governor most definitely was. When the Apostle Paul was brought up on charges for preaching the resurrection, it was up to Felix to judge Paul’s case, but Felix procrastinated. When Paul spoke about putting faith in Jesus, Felix once again…procrastinated. Join us this weekend as we hear more of Paul’s sermon to procrastinators, calling all of us to decisively surrender our lives to Jesus.
Acts 22:30 - 23:15 Have you ever wondered why you are never able to see eye to eye with some people even when you have so much else in common? The Pharisees and Sadducees would appear to be people who should always agree, but they had very different starting points. Their views of the world and truth were so different that a fight breaks out over it. This week we will look at how the Gospel shapes our view of the world and how to interact with each other in a way the honors The God of Truth.
What does it really mean to be a Christian? What are the essential and non-essential aspects of following Jesus? In the early church, this was a huge debate as the Jewish and Gentile followers of Jesus wrestled with cultural practices that many people made essential to be a Christian. In 2,000 years it seems things have not changed much. This week we will explore what it means to follow Jesus into the heart of the Gospel and not be enslaved to cultural habits that detract from the grace of God.
Acts 20:7-12 Have you ever fallen asleep during a sermon? Yeah, so have we. And so did Eutychus in Acts 20, although with a deadly consequence. As we continue our journey through the book of Acts, we’ll look at this little story that has much to teach us about our own spiritual sleepiness, boredom, and the awakening power of grace. Join us this Sunday… Hopefully, you won’t fall asleep!
Acts 18:1-11 What are you afraid of? Fear is a debilitating force in our lives. Even the seemingly unstoppable "Type A" Apostle Paul experienced this. But Jesus spoke timely words to Paul in the midst of his fear that empowered him to literally change the world. Come this Sunday as we learn how Jesus dismantles our fears with His presence and purpose!
Acts 15:6-11 Major on the majors and minor on the minors. That’s good advice except as Christians and certainly in the church we sometimes major on the minors and minor on the majors. This weeks passage talks about this very thing. What are the most important issues for Christians to major on?
Acts 13:13-39 To redeem something has the idea of rescuing it, or freeing it from calamity. It often involves an exchange of something valuable for that which we want to redeem. The story of the Bible is the long narrative of God working throughout history to redeem a people. In our passage from Acts 13 this week, the Apostle Paul reminds us of the overwhelming patience and love of God as He works through history for our eternal redemption.
Acts 12:1-19 Have you ever wrestled with why God answers some prayers and not others? Ever wonder why things work out for some people and not others? In Acts chapter 12 we see one of the Apostles executed and another set free. In the midst of all that we see God's justice exercised against injustice. It looks to be a deeper dive into truth this weekend. Hope to see you there!
Acts 10:1-48 Some people will try to convince you that following Jesus makes your life comfortable, sweet, safe, and easy. Try telling that to the Apostle Peter. It seems like he is constantly faced with challenges from Jesus that force him to make some hard decisions about what he believes and values. This week is no different. We find Peter confronted with a decision that will have massive implications for the future of the Gospel. What is more, we are faced with similar decisions on a regular basis. Come see what we can learn from Peter that can make a difference in how to follow Jesus today.
Acts 9:1-22 What do you make of a guy who violently opposes Christianity to the point that he has people arrested, beaten, and sometimes killed? What do you make of that same guy when he has a dramatic about-face and becomes one of history's most passionate proclaimers of Jesus? It takes more than tweaking your lifestyle, or an attitude adjustment, for that kind of change to take hold. It takes an encounter with the living Christ. This week we will explore Acts 9:1-22 and the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, who most people know as Paul the Apostle.
Acts 8:26-40 Often we think that the only way for the Gospel to make an impact is through the preaching of high powered people. The Books of Acts tells us a great deal about the preaching of Paul. History often highlights people like Charle Spurgeon and Billy Graham. But it is usually the witness of everyday people that has the biggest and most lasting impact. We see that this week when a one on one encounter between Philip and the Ethiopian official results in a nation being impacted with the Gospel.
Acts 7:48-56 History repeats itself, right? It often does and it is no different for the people of God. Stephen walks through some of that history in Acts 7 and challenges the religious leaders of his day and us as Christians today to not let history repeat itself.
The first group of Christians could be easily circling the wagons and hunkered down in the face of opposition. Instead, the Christians in the church at Antioch followed the leading of the Holy Spirit to venture out into the unknown in order to spread the Gospel and make disciples. This week we get to take a look at what that means for Oviedo City Church as we move into the future.
1 Chronicles 29:1-9 The people of Israel were nomads for a long time. The Tabernacle, which was their place of worship was a tent that was easily moved from place to place. When the time came for them to build a permanent place to worship and serve the Lord, it was the leaders of Israel who showed the way through generosity. This Sunday we look at 1 Chronicles 29:1-9 and the sacrifice leaders made in order to honor God and inspire people.
What is "All In"? It's shorthand for our All In Stewardship Initiative. With this initiative, we will be laying out the vision for everything that will come with our new property. With new things always come questions! So, we want to have a Town Hall style meeting to answer all your questions and make sure we're on the same page.
Got Questions? Email ALLIN@oviedocity.church
Mark 12:41-44 We are often enamored by large donations to churches and institutions. Jesus was not. At least not if the person making the donation was doing it for show. He was more impressed by the size of the sacrifice than the size of the gift. In week two of the All In Initiative, we will look at what Jesus has to say about a widow who honored God with her last two pennies and what do we mean when we say, "not equal gifts, but equal sacrifice".
Acts 4:32-5:11 As we begin our ALL IN Initiative, we are embarking on a spiritual journey of Seeking the Lord, Listening to His voice, and Obeying what He says. In our first of four sermons in the series, we are looking at Acts 4:32-5:11 and the story of two very different responses to serving the mission of making disciples. It is a story of incredible encouragement as well as a rather shocking account of people dropping dead in church. You won't want to miss this start to a new chapter in the life of OCC.
Matthew 28:1-10 Perhaps the most often used word on the first Easter morning was the word fear. The soldiers guarding the tomb were afraid, the women were afraid, the angels said to not be afraid. Even Jesus shows up and says "fear not". What was it about that first Easter morning that instilled so much fear? Was it all the same kind of fear? How should we respond to the Resurrection of Jesus nearly 2,000 years later? This Resurrection has been called the hinge of history. Join us on Sunday to celebrate the event that changed everything and find out why we should stand in awe of it today.
One week before Jesus was raised from the dead he rode into Jerusalem being hailed as the King. The only trouble was, Jesus wasn't the King the people expected. Instead of a triumphant King coming on a horse ready for battle, he came riding on a donkey in the name of peace. He didn't come to free his people from slavery to men, but to free his people from slavery to sin.
So far in the Book of Acts, it would be easy to get the impression that everything was awesome. But anytime you get people together, especially from differing backgrounds, there is bound to be conflict. We see that this week when we explore Acts 6:1-7. What we also will see is the beautiful way the early church dealt with this, along with stunning parallels in today's world.
As we continue our study of the Book of Acts, we see the pressure against the early church increasing. But we also see God intervening in powerful ways that keeps the message of the Gospel moving forward and the early Christians filled with boldness. But perhaps what is most astonishing is that in the face of serious opposition and the potential of death, the Apostles rejoice in the opportunity to give their all and even suffer for Jesus.
Scripture: Acts 4:8-14 Do you ever feel ill-equipped to share your faith with others? Peter and John may have felt the same way, after all, they were just common men. But they were filled with the Holy Spirit and He worked through them to preach to the crowds causing thousands to come to saving faith! This week we take a look at what we can learn from how the Holy Spirit worked through Peter and John.
The early church was not without its problems and during our study of Acts we will learn about many of them. But in the earliest days, we see a group of people who were sold out for Jesus and for one another. As a result, the Gospel went forth in dramatic fashion and people were in awe of what God was doing. What those early followers of Jesus did should not be confined to the first century; it should serve as an example for us now and always. Imagine what it would be like if followers of Jesus had something even close to that same level of devotion today!
Imagine being people who had never traveled more than 50 miles from home. Then imagine what it would be like to have Jesus tell you to take the message of the Gospel to the farthest reaches of the world. That takes boldness. And that is were we are starting in our new series on The Book of Acts. Join us for chapter 1 as we Boldly Go.
Our final week in the One series is "One God and Father of us all". The early church understood that because of the saving work of Jesus Christ, all who trust in him are now family. Your race, ethnicity, country of origin, religious background, political party, and even your biological family are not as important as your spiritual family. That sounds great in theory, but what does it really mean and how can followers of Jesus live out being true family to one another and thus walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which we have been called?
As we continue in our “One” series, we will look at how our “one baptism” unifies us through our shared identity in Jesus. Through Christ, we experience connection with one another and the very presence of God, whose power works through us to transform the world.
Last week we saw at the beginning of our new series called ONE, that we are united under one Lord. This week we look at how we are united by one faith. But what is that faith? What’s the essence of it? And how does that faith unite us in Christ? We will dive into all of that and more this Sunday in week two.
Jesus prayed that his followers would be one, even as he and the Father are one. When Paul writes to the church in Ephesus he emphasizes the oneness that we have in Christ. For the next four weeks, we are doing a deep dive into Ephesians 4:1-6 where Paul calls us to One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, One God and Father of us all. In a time of a fracturing society and fracturing church, we need to do all we can to promote and live our oneness in Christ.
Dr. Steve Brown is a broadcaster, seminary professor, and author, as well as the founder and president of Key Life Network. Dr. Brown is a regular attendee here at OCC. He previously served as a pastor for over twenty-five years and now devotes much of his time to the radio broadcasts, Key Life and Steve Brown Etc. Dr. Steve Brown is the author of numerous books such as Talk the Walk, Three Free Sins, and When Being Good Isn't Good Enough. He was born and raised in Asheville, North Carolina. He received a B.A. in Philosophy and Religion from High Point College and received an S.T.B. degree from Boston University School of Theology. It was an honor and a blessing to have him as our guest speaker!
Every first Sunday of the year is when we remind ourselves of the mission and vision God has called us to at OCC. It is a chance to reinforce who we are and also to take a peek into the coming year and see the plans for the future.
This Morning we will hear from our guest speaker Chet Tokar. Chet is a longtime Central Florida resident who attends OCC. Prior to becoming a financial advisor, Chet spent many years as a pastor. On top of all that you can tell he is a devoted Steeler fan from his black and yellow Mustang.
Sermon Scripture: Luke 2:22-40
Mary and Joseph were devout in the practice of their faith. As a result, they took their newborn son to be dedicated to the Lord. Little did they know that two other godly people would confront them at the dedication and speak words about their son that were mysterious and wondrous at the same time. They were told that their son was appointed for the rising and falling of many. Clearly this was no typical child being dedicated to the Lord. The question is, will Jesus be the cause of your rising or your falling?
Sermon Scripture: Luke 2:1-21
All of history turns on the birth of Jesus into the world. Most calendars are based on starting from that event and deal with what came before and what comes after. While the birth of Jesus has a certain sweet nostalgia to it, the announcement to the shepherds about the birth of Jesus was earth-shattering. They were being told that something momentous and powerful, beyond their wildest imaginations, had just taken place. In order to fully grasp the power of the birth of Jesus, we will look at exactly what the angels told the shepherds and why those words may be the most important you hear this Christmas season.
Luke 1: 39-56 ESV
Mary and Elizabeth meet for the first time since both of them have heard life-changing news. They are both pregnant and their children will literally change the world. What's their response? Humility. Elizabeth says, "Why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" When God promises to do something our response should be faith in humility, just like Mary and Elizabeth.
At the heart of the Gospel and the life and ministry of Jesus is the fact that he came to lay down his life for us. But that is not the end of it all. God also calls us to love one another with that same dedication and self-sacrifice. But if we are honest, that is not something that we come by easily. We admire it when we see it but doing it is a whole other story. This week we will explore what it takes to become so like Jesus that we love one another as he loves us.
Sermon Scripture: 1 Samuel 18:1-5
Questions for thought What is the purpose of deep authentic relationships?
What does it look like to pursue Biblical relationships? What is the foundation of your deepest relationships?
What does sacrifice look like in your current relationships?
Passage: Ephesians 5:51-6:4
Questions for thought
Why is marriage complicated? How does focusing on Jesus and the cross help us to approach it better?
Are you treating your wife as an equal partner?
Men, are you nurturing your wives and providing them the emotional support they need?
Scripture: 1 Peter 5:1-14
Questions for thought
How can we be both humble and bold at the same time?
Why is it important for us to be in Christian community? What purpose does it serve?
How can we stand boldly in our faith without being arrogant?
How can we look at life through a scriptural lens and let that affect other areas of our life?
Notes
Arrogance is thinking you are never wrong Bold is having the knowledge to know you are right “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” – Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life
1 Peter 4:12-19
Questions for thought
If we know suffering is going to happen to us, what should be our proper response to it? Why should we not be surprised when trials happen?
How do you rejoice in suffering for the name of Jesus? How should we?
Why is meddling in another person's affairs not Loving them well in the name of Jesus?
How can we engage others with empathy to learn more about them and better connect with them to Love them like Jesus?
Notes
5 Types of Suffering 1. Fallen Creation (Romans 8:18-25) 2. Personal Sin (Deuteronomy 28-30, Matthew 18:15-20, Acts 5:1-11, I Corinthians 5:1-13) 3. Eternal Suffering of Hell for Rejecting Christ (Luke 16:19-31; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 20:11-15) 4. Involuntary Suffering- Sometimes at the loving hand of God to enhance our trust and obedience as His sons and daughters (Job, Hebrews 12:1-13, James 1:1-4, 1 Peter 1:6-7) 5. Voluntary Suffering- in identification with Christ and in living a godly life (John 15:13, Acts 20:33-35, Romans 12:10 & 15:1-3, 1 Corinthians 8-10, Philippians 2:1-4 & 3:7-11, 1 Peter 2:12, 18-25 & 3:15-17 &4:12-19)
Sermon Passage: 1 Peter 4:1-11 ESV
Questions for thought How can we be leaders to help people get where they belong? Are your actions leading people to Jesus or away from Jesus?
Are you living with the knowledge that Jesus may return at any moment? How should this look?
Are you taking time to calm down and pray for others?
What can you do to show hospitality (open up) to others?
What will you do this week to Love others and glorify God?
Notes C.L.O.G. Calm Down Love Others Open Up Glorify God
Have you ever felt alone? And I don't mean in just the last 6 weeks. What about feeling insignificant, as if your life really didn't make much of a difference? Have you ever wanted your life to count for something? This week's message from 1 Peter 2:4-12 is all about how significant you are when you are in a relationship with Christ and how you can be assured that you are not alone. Your life matters to God and to others more than you can imagine.
Holy- It’s a word often used in churches. Its also used as an adjective when we are amazed or shocked by something, as in holy cow did you see that. It's also a word that shows up nearly 900 times in the Bible. Yet, for all it’s familiar usage it is a word about which we have very little understanding. Peter says that God is holy and because of that we are to be holy. This week's message looks to clear up lots of confusion about what it means to be holy and put you on a path to live a radically different life and abundantly fulfilling life of holiness.
“I’m sorry”...two words that are difficult to say and mean. But sometimes “I forgive you“ is even more difficult. This morning we look at what Jesus has done for us and the power that it gives us to forgive others. Pastor Brian will be preaching out of John 21:15-17 ESV.
Passage: Romans 8:28-30
Questions for thought
Why do we crave to be happy? What is the pitfall with that statement "God just wants me to be happy"?
Have you ever used the statement "God just wants me to be happy" to gain permission from God to do something? If so, does being happy justify the sin?
Why do we find it hard to rejoice in persecution that we receive in the name of Jesus?
Why is it important to focus on the joy of the Lord and not the happiness of our situation?
Notes
Joy is an unnatural reaction of deep, steady and unadulterated thankful trust in God - Derek Tidball
Joy is an emotion that's acquired by the anticipation, acquisition or even the expectation of something great or wonderful. - Jack Wellman
Passage: John 8:1-11
Questions for thought
Why is it incorrect to say Jesus loves me just the way that I am?
Are people basically good or evil? Why?
How Amazing is it to know that Jesus Loves us in spite of who we are?
In the brokenness of our lives, How can we experience the mercy and grace of Jesus and walk with Him and in Him?
Passage: Matthew 26:36-46
Questions for thought
What is the pitfall with living the "Prosperity" Gospel over the Gospel?
When we pray, what kind of faith should we have and what should we ask for?
How can we see the blessings of God in our unanswered prayers?
How can we seek God's will in our prayer life?
Passage: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Questions for thought
Why would we want God to give only give us only what we can handle?
Where are the areas in your life you are weak? Why do we find it difficult to acknowledge them?
Why would God allow things to happen to us that are more than we can handle?
What things in your life are pushing you to be closer to God?
Passage: Romans 8:14-17
Questions for thought
What has happened to our image (in God) because of sin?
Who are you as a child of God?
How are we to live out the adoption that God gives us and share it with others?
Are you living like a Son/Daughter or a slave?
Notes
A Son/Daughter lives in Freedom A Slave lives fear
A Son/Daughter has access to the Father A Slave has to request an audience
A Son/Daughter understands their wealth in the Father A Slave has no wealth (no identity)
A Son/Daughter has the assurance of Love from the Father A Slave must be concerned of their acceptance
Passage: Genesis 3 & Romans 7:24-8:1
Questions for thought
How does my sin separate me from God and why should this concern me?
How do we correct our broken relationship with God? And with each other?
How should we care for creation?
Instead of hiding our brokenness, how can we embrace it and allow Jesus to repair us into a creation that is more complete?
Notes
We have a broken relationship with God
We have a broken relationship with each other
We have a broken relationship with creation
Passage: Genesis 1:26-31
Questions for thought
Why do we struggle with personal identity?
What does it mean to be a Godly Man/Woman? How does it relate to you?
Why do cultural norms cause problems when we talk about gender identity?
Why is it incorrect to base a rule on an exception or outlier?
How should we as Christians respond to gender identity issues?
Notes
God is NOT male or female
Romans 12:1-2
Passage: Genesis 1:26-31
Questions for thought
When you look in the mirror, What do you see? What do you see when you look at others?
What is the foundation of your identity?
What makes a human a person of value and importance?
We are made in God's image but corrupted by sin, how do we restore that image that God has created?
How can we mirror the sacrificial love of God?
Passage: Matthew 22:34-40
Questions for thought
What is the Great Commandment in the Law?
What is the Great Commission?
How do we grow and grow more in our understanding of Jesus? and become more like Jesus?
How do I connect with the Christian Community and why is it important?
Notes
This year I want to be more like Jesus
Hang out with sinners
Upset religious People
Tell stories that make people think
Choose unpopular friends
Be kind loving and merciful
Take naps in the back of a boat
Passage: Exodus 20:1-21
Questions for thought
Why are we to worship only God?
Why is it important to worship God faithfully?
Why do we continuously struggle with idols in our lives?
What happens when you make God first in your life?
Notes
12 steps to overcome the power of idols 1) Realize you are an idolater 2) Seek Divine help outside of self 3) Decide to change, repent 4) Acknowledge powerlessness to relinquish the power of idols 5) Confess thoroughly 6) Ask for forgiveness and the power of the Holy Spirit 7) Seek the help of others 8) Make amends to those you have sinned against 9) Become part of the Church 10) Seek God. Continually – in prayer and in His Word 11) Keep going in the new life in Christ 12) Testify to the saving grace of God
Sermon: Finishing Well
Passage: Joshua 1:1-9 & 24:15
Questions for thought
What would it be like to actually finish well?
What fears are you facing?
What do you do daily to keep yourself grounded?
Do you have a sacred practice to meditate daily on scripture? What is the purpose of this?
What are you doing with the strongholds in your life? Are you asking God for help with them?
Notes
Trust that God is good and wants the very best for you Colossians 3:1-3
Passage: Genesis 12:1-3, 22:15-19
Questions for thought
How do you define the blessed life?
If God knows everything about you and accepts us unconditionally, why do we struggle with turning over our lives to Him?
How can you be a blessing to someone else today?
Passage: Genesis 3:1-15
Questions for thought
How can you see yourself in Genesis 3:1-15 and how it reflects on the things you say and do?
If we know that we each have faults and shortcomings, why do we hide them from each other?
Why do we try to blame others when we have made a mistake or messed something up?
What is real HOPE and where should your focus be to find it?
Passage: Philippians 4
See Provocative Joy study guide fro weeks 11 and 12 for study questions. The study guide can be found on the "What's Current" page in the OCC app or on the home page of the website. www.oviedocity.church
Passage: Philippians 3:17-21
Questions: What to you think of when you think about the return of Jesus? Are you somewhat anxious about it? Are you excited and joyful about it?
How do you react to people who have an almost doomsday approach to the return of Christ? How can Paul’s joyful anticipation inform our response?
Paul has more to say in this passage about how we are to live each day than he does about the return of Jesus. How does the way we live make a difference for Jesus before he returns?
What are earthly things that our culture focuses on that we also get caught up in easily? What would be a biblical response to those earthly things?
Citizenship is a hot topic today and it was for the Philippians. Roman citizens had far greater privileges than everyone else. What do you think of the idea that we are citizens in heaven? Why would that have been important to the Philippians? In what way does American citizenship help or hinder being a follower of Christ?
Passage: Philippians 3:12-16
Questions: How do you hold together the two ends of the spectrum that your salvation depends completely on God yet you are urged to train hard and run the race with all your effort?
Training for a race and running it are both difficult. Yet when Paul compares that to the Christian life he sees the hard work as filled with joy. How is it possible to strive and work for something and yet be filled with joy?
Distance runners talk about hitting a wall and having to work through it to keep going. Once they get passed that emotional/mental wall they have a renewed energy. When have you hit the wall as a follower of Jesus? How have you broken through it or are you still stuck at the wall?
Runners will often train with other runners for encouragement and even in the race will join together in groups. Bike riders do the same thing. In what ways does Christian community help in the race of following Jesus? What are the hard parts of being in Christian community?
Passage: Philippians 3:1-11
Questions: How would you define what it means to be righteous? How did Paul define it before coming to faith in Christ?
How does the Gospel differ from the way many people think we get to heaven?
In what ways are Christians sometimes modern day Pharisees when it comes to righteousness?
How do you view your life before you came to Christ and how do you view it now? What difference has Jesus made in it?
Paul looks at suffering in a very different light from most people today. How would you describe the common view of suffering today and how does it compare to Paul’s view?
What does Paul mean by the “power of Christ’s resurrection”? How can you experience that today?
Passage: Philippians 2:19-30
Questions: How would you describe the state of friendships in our society today? How are they similar to and different from what you see in Paul and his friends?
Why do people hold back from friendships and how can following Christ help overcome that?
Jesus said he no longer calls us servants but friends. What does that mean to you?
We tend to have friends who are similar to us. What are the pros and cons of that? What impact does that have on the make up of the church and how we are to reach people who don’t know Jesus?
What is an example of someone being an incredible friend to you?
Application: What is one thing you can do this week to be a better friend?
Passage: Philippians 2:12-18
Discussion: Share your story about how you came to know Jesus as Savior and Lord.
Questions: How has being a follower of Jesus changed your attitude about things in life? In other words, do you grumble and complain less because of Jesus? What areas are still a struggle?
What difference does it make to think about working out your salvation as living out the faith you have in Christ instead of earning something from God?
Fear and trembling are not words often heard when talking about following Jesus. What is a healthy understanding of fear and trembling when it comes to God? What place does that have in your life?
Discussion: It is a common thing for people to lose some of their initial joy of their salvation. Have you ever gone through a dry spell in your relationship with Jesus? How did you get out of it? Are you in one now?
Passage: Philippians 2:5-11
Questions: What are the negative connotations connected with being humble? If Jesus humbled himself then what are the positive aspects of being humble that we ignore?
When you think of Jesus being divine, how do you see him in relation to the Father and the Spirit? How does their relationship inform how we are to relate to one another?
The day will come when every knee will bow to Jesus. What does that mean and how can we bend the knee to Jesus in this life? Why is it hard to do that sometimes?
Discussion: As a group, what are some ways you can humble yourselves together and serve someone outside the group?
Jesus’ entire life was a sacrifice of giving up glory and coming to earth for us. Talk about a time when someone made a major sacrifice for you. How did you respond to that and how do you respond when called upon to sacrifice for others?
Passage: Philippians 2:1-4
Questions: In verse 1 Paul asks what is really a rhetorical question about encouragement, comfort, love, the Spirit, affection and sympathy. He knows they have all experienced these things. What are ways in which you have experienced any of these as a part of the Body of Christ?
Why does Paul find joy in the church having the same mind, being united, with the same love? What makes it difficult for us to experience that kind of unity today?
For Roman culture humility was seen as a character flaw, not a virtue. How would you define humility and what makes it difficult for us to be humble?
When have you seen followers of Christ look out not only for their own interests but those of others as well?
How can unity and caring for one another have an impact on reaching people who do not yet follow Jesus?
Passage: Philippians 1:27-30
Questions: What does a life worthy of the Gospel look like in our culture today?
How can you live a provocative life that actually attracts people to Jesus?
Paul urges Christians to stand firm, side by side, with one mind, for the sake of the Gospel. How would you define the gospel for someone who does not know Jesus?
What impact does unity or disunity in the church have on the ministry of the Gospel? Are there things we can legitimately disagree on yet still be united? What are they?
How does Paul’s view of suffering differ from the view of our culture? How have you unknowingly bought into the cultural view?
Discussion: Talk about a time when you did suffer and were drawn closer to Christ.
Passage: Phillipians 1:12-26
Questions Why do you think Paul is able to view death as something he looks forward to just as much as living?
How has following Jesus impacted your understanding of death and the way you approach it?
How would you describe Paul’s mission in life and how did that impact his approach to life and death?
Do you have a mission statement for your own life or at least a reason why you are here and what you hope to accomplish before you die?
How much weight does Paul put on the value of prayer? Does prayer come easy to you or does it require discipline and effort on your part?
Discussion Share ways in which you have grown in your prayer life and areas of struggle. The goal is to help one another develop a more robust prayer life.
Questions What does verse 6 tell you about your relationship with God?
How does that understanding impact the way you live?
In Verse 9, what does Paul pray would be evident in the lives of the Philippians?
What would a church look like that exhibited those qualities?
What can you do differently to promote them?
How does verse 10 strike you, especially the part about being blameless?
What would a blameless life look like?
How do you respond to your own failures at being blameless?
Passage: Jonah 3 and 4
Questions for thought
Why in our culture is it believed that it is incorrect to share our faith in Christ with others? How should we share it?
How do we recognize the depth of our sin and brokenness and our need for Jesus daily?
Why is it incorrect for us to wish retribution on our enemies? What does it look like to extend grace even to someone you think doesn't deserve it?
As Christians, how do we look past the outward appearance of others and address (embrace) their heart towards God?
Passage: Jonah 1:17- 2:10
Questions for thought What is God doing in your life to get your attention? Are you listening or going to the "bottom of the boat"?
Why do we find it hard to believe that Jonah survived in a fish for 3 days, but we do not question the resurrection of Jesus?
How important is God's grace in your life so that it changes your interactions with others?
Why do we need the ten Commandments even after the crucifiction and resurrection of Jesus?
Passage: Jonah 1:1-16
Questions for thought
Why is Jonah running away? What are the things Gad is calling you to do, but you are running from them?
What is preventing you from doing the things God is calling you to do?
Why is it easy to forget that you are made in God's image? that your neighbor is also? and so is your enemy?
Why are we God's enemy before we are saved?
Passage: Matthew 4:17-22
Questions for thought
In your daily life, what does it mean to be a "fisher of men"?
Why are we afraid to share the gospel with others? How do you share it and what should it look like?
Have we truly grasped what Jesus has done for us that we want to share it with others?
When did the disciples come to a saving faith in Christ? When did they become disciples? How does being a follower of Jesus impact __________? (different area of your life)
How can you intentionally connect with others to share the Love of Jesus?
Passage: Matthew 4:17-22
Questions for thought
How can I be that person living for Jesus and lead another person to a knowing faith in Him?
How do I follow Jesus close enough to be just like Him?
Why does fear cause us to focus on enemies that are not real? Why does Satan want us to live in fear? How can we be courageous in the face of that fear?
What is the proper way to be obedient to God?
Passage: Matthew 4:17-22
Questions for thought Why do we come together on Sunday?
What is the price of grace? What can we do to NOT cheapen it's value?
When it comes to following Jesus, Are you an observer or a participant? What does it mean to go from being an observer to a participant?
How is your faith shown to others around you? to Christians? to non-Christians?
Passage: John 11:38-44
Questions for thought
What is your tomb that is making you feel powerless?
He knows you inside out and loves you anyway. Why is it so hard for us to trust in Jesus?
Do you believe that Jesus has the power to reverse the irreversible?
Is Jesus calling you by name and are you listening? If you are listening, what can Jesus do with your life?
Passage: John 11:17-37
Questions for thought
When we are hurt or disappointed, it is human nature to think that no one could possibly understand how you are feeling or what you are going through. Why do we often push people away or not ask for help from the people we love?
Mary said to Jesus. "Lord if you had been here, my brother would not have died." Brokenness and hurt comes in many forms. Was there a time in your life you have had to deal with either or both? How did you handle the situation? Would you do it differently if you where given a do over?
When someone cries with you, know they feel your pain. Just as Jesus wept with Mary, he cared. Jesus is relatable. He wants a relationship with you. What is holding you back?
REMEMBER: We have a personal God. How personal depends on your relationship with him.
Passage: John 11:1-16
Questions for thought
Was there ever a time in your life that you really, really wanted something and you didn’t get it? (Think about it a little.) Did you ask God for help? Did you lay blame when your request did not happen?
Do you invite God into your story for his glory or for yourself? If it is for yourself, why do you or don’t you think it is ok?
In your humble opinion, why do you think Jesus waited 2 days (actually 4) to go to Lazarus when he was dying?
Are you overcome with the answers of no or not yet? You may need to Reorient your ways to the ways of how God may want things to happen.
REMEMBER: God is most glorified when we learn to trust him completely.
Passage: John 3:22-36
Questions for thought
Isn't it amazing how God invites us into His plan. Can you think of a time this has happened to you?
Who are you when it comes to sharing Jesus?
How can we share our testimony without making about ourselves and make it more about Jesus?
What can you do to take the focus of yourself and direct it toward Jesus?
Passage: Colossians 3:1-11
Questions for thought
How can Less be More?
If we have been raised up in Christ and we are in Christ, how should our identity look to non-Christians? Why do we struggle with this?
Why is it hard to stay focused on Christ? How can you stay focused on Him?
What do you want to let go of, so that you can have more?
Passage: Romans 12:1-2
Questions for thought
How can you present yourself to God as a living sacrifice?
How do we live differently than the world, without living separately from the world?
How can surrendering your life to God make you free from the slavery of sin?
What does the cross mean to you?
Passage: Psalm 8:1-9
Questions for thought
Why do modern scholars believe that science is in opposition to the Bible?
Do you know of some scientific ideas that have caught up to the Bible?
Do you know of some issues where both science is incomplete and the Bible is misinterpreted?
Notes
All Truth is God's Truth
Famous Christian scientist: Johannes Kepler, Galileo, Francis Bacon, Isaac Newton
Passage: Romans 7:15-25
Questions for thought
What is a hypocrite?
Are the standards that Christ laid out for us too hard? Why?
Does the freedom in Christ make it "OK" to not live up to Christ's standards?
What should a follower of Jesus look like to a non-Christian?
Notes
Being a grace filled church says "We are all messed up and we all have struggles. It doesn't mean we ignore sin, but we deal with it with grace."
Passage: John 14:1-4
Questions for thought
Do you believe Jesus is the only way to get to Heaven?
Why is it wrong to let your emotions override the truth?
Why is it not possible for Jesus to be just a good teacher/prophet and not God?
Why is it gospel difficult for people to hear?
Passage: Matthew 24 & 25
Notes Two Questions 1. When will this be? 2. What will be the sign of your coming and the end of the age?
Matthew 24:36 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Revelation 21:1-5
Questions for thought What is your expectation of the second coming?
What will be the sign of His coming and the end of the age?
What does the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem mean to us?
What can we do to stop treating the physical as somehow inherently evil and the spiritual as only good?
Passage: Matthew 28: 16-20
Questions for thought
Have you had a mountain top experience with God?
As you are going, what is your mission for God?
What are you doing to show and teach others about Jesus?
Passage: Matthew 28:1-15
Questions for thought What does the resurrection of Jesus mean to you?
How do you explain the growth of Christianity in early history?
What is your reality of the resurrection and how is it applied to your life?
Passage: Matthew 21:1-17
Questions for thought Why is the celebration of Palm Sunday important to us?
What area in your life is your "den of robbers", because you are not giving full worship to God?
How do you worship God for who He is and what He has done?
Does your worship show unbelievers who God is and what He means to you?
Is your worship properly directed toward Jesus?
Notes Worship is the appropriate response to God for who He is and what He has done Worship is to be a blessing to those who engage in it. Worship is to be a witness to the unbeliever of who God is Worship is directed towards Jesus as God in the flesh, Lord, Savior, Messiah
Passage: Matthew 19:16-30
Questions for thought What has God blessed you with for the sacrifices you have made since coming to Jesus?
How are we called to practice Radical Generosity?
What is getting in your way of going all in for Jesus?
Passage: Matthew 22:34-36
Questions for thought Is where you live be better because of you?
Why do we need to be tapped into God's Love before we love others?
Why is living life together with others important?
God, how can I tap into your source of Love?
Notes Matthew 22:37-39 1 John 4:19 John 13:34-35 Acts 8:4
Good neighbors make great neighborhoods. -Tim DeTellis Your mission field is right where you are. -Tim DeTellis Life is better together. -Tim DeTellis Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. -Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Passage: Matthew 25:31-46
Questions for thought
Who Are the least of these?
Lord when did we see you in need and not minister to you?
To what type of people did Jesus show hospitality?
What is the difference between entertaining and hospitality?
Why are we responsible to show hospitality and how do we show it radically?
Notes Jeremiah 22:3, Proverbs 22:9; 14:21; 21:13 Galatians 2:10 Matthew 12:46-50; 28:10; 10:40-42
Book: "The Gospel Comes with a House Key" by Rosaria Butterfield
Passage: Matthew 12:44-46
Notes Revelation 3:20
"The only way the kingdom of God is going to be manifest in this world before Christ comes is if we manifest it by the way we live as citizens of heaven and subjects of the King" - R. C. Sproul
"The only significance of life consists in helping to establish the kingdom of God." - Leo Tolstoy
"He is no fool, who gives up what he cannot keep, in order to gain what he cannot lose" - Jim Elliot
Questions for thought Do you make any sacrifices to honor God?
What is The Kingdom of God?
How do we manifest the The Kingdom of God here on Earth?
Why do Americans have trouble with obedience?
What is getting in your way of going all in with Jesus
Passage: Matthew 6:19-24
Questions for thought
Why do we have trouble admitting to our struggle with greed?
Where do you spend the majority of your time/money?
What do you love the most? Is this where you are spending the majority of your time/money?
What does your Heavenly portfolio look like?
Passage: Matthew 5:13-16
Notes Disciples of Jesus are meant to impact the world. By preserving and flavoring. By shining in dark places and revealing beauty.
“Discipleship is as visible as light in the night, as a mountain in the flatlands. To flee into invisibility is to deny the call. Any community of Jesus which wants to be invisible is no longer a community that follows him.” - Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Questions for thought What troubles you in the Darkness?
What is the purpose of salt and light?
What happens to mankind (us) when left to our own devices (desires)?
Why is it important to have our light shine before others ?
Passage: Matthew 18:15-35
Notes The Motivation The Cost The Method
"Forgiveness flounders because I exclude my enemy from the community of humans and I exclude myself from the community of sinners." Miroslav Volf
2 Corinthians 5:16-21
Questions for thought How great is the debt that I have been forgiven?
Why do we find it hard to forgive others compared to the debt that we owe?
Are you willing to give up your right for (vengeance, payment, indignation ...) in order to forgive?
Are you willing to pay the cost for reconciliation?
Passage: Matthew 18:1-6
Questions for thought
What does it mean to have childlike Faith and how do we show it?
When was the last time you were impressed by God?
How do we take the lowest position to become completely dependent on Jesus?
Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of God?
Passage: Matthew 7:1-6
Questions for thought
Why are we a judgemental society?
Does the Bible tell us not to judge others?
How do we recognize the depths of our wrong doings (Log) in our lives, so we can help another with the issue (spec) in their life?
How can we share our brokenness with others to let them know they are not alone and need Jesus also?
Sermon: The Leader Paradox Passage: Mathew 20:17-29
Questions for thought
Like the twelve disciples in Mat 20:17-29 why do we, at times, "not get it" as to the truth of what Jesus teaches us through His Word?
What does "being a great leader" look like to you?
How can you turn the Cup of your Suffering into your Cup of Hope and Freedom
Passage: Matthew 5:10-12
Notes Matthew 5:44 But I say you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
The goal is not to be loved by everybody, but to love everybody.
Questions for thought
How can your persecution be a blessing?
Should we be surprised when we are persecuted for righteousness sake? How can we be careful to not mix this persecution with persecution because of our own mistakes?
How blessed are we that we can share/observe our faith openly compared to those who are persecuted by the government for theirs?
What does it mean to you to Love God and Love your neighbor?
Passage: Matthew 20:1-16
Notes 1. The Kingdom of Heaven is right-side up in an upside down world 2. The Kingdom of Heaven is concerned with the state of our heart 3. The Kingdom of Heaven is just, but not always fair
Questions for thought
Why do we often try to equate equal with fair?
What does your heart tell you when you feel like things aren't fair for your day wage?
Where is your value found in the Kingdom of Heaven?
What is your response to the unfairness that Jesus received on the cross?
Passage: Acts 1:6-11
Questions for thought
Why is it important from time to time to study the basic concepts of the Gospel?
What is your purpose in being a witness for Jesus? (Why should you be a witness?)
How do we help people Know who God really is?
How do we Grow in our relationship with Christ?
As we Go, how do we serve those in the community around us?
Passage: Matthew 3:1-17
Questions for thought
What is it about John the Baptist that drew people to him?
Like John the Baptist, does your life and speech point people to Jesus?
Do you live your life with a message of hope that Jesus is coming?
How do we enter into a constant state of focus on Jesus?
Passage: Luke 2:1-21
Notes: Born in Humility Born in Glory Born in our Hearts
“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” – Rick Warren
Questions for thought
Who is your Messiah?
How can we give Glory to God?
How can Jesus be Born in our Hearts?
What do the Birth, Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus mean to you during the Christmas season?
Passage: Matthew 2:13-23
Notes 1. Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament 2. Jesus pushes people to extremes 3. Jesus is the ultimate agent of Grace
Questions for thought
Who is the King of your Life?
Is the birth of Jesus a threat or surety to your life?
Does the proclamation of Jesus as King push you to an extreme?
Who sits on the throne of your life? (You, addiction, Jesus ... )
Passage: Matthew 2:1-12
Questions for thought
Why is it surprising that Magi came to bring gifts to Jesus?
What nugget of truth do you cling to that led you to Jesus?
Why do we worship the King?
Is there anyone in your life that is beyond the Hope of the Gospel?
Is there anything in your life that you cannot give to Jesus to experience the Gospel yourself?
Notes: 1 No One is Without Some Truth
2 No One is Above Worshipping the King
3 No One is Beyond the Hope of the Gospel.
Passage: Matthew 1:18-25
Questions for thought
What does Immanuel (God with us) mean to you?
What is the difference between "being a witness" and "doing witnessing"?
How can I improve my "Withness" when I am around others?
Passage: Matthew 1:1-17
Questions for thought
Why is the genealogy of Jesus important to us?
Should we be embarrassed of our family tree when compared to the genealogy of Jesus?
What is your purpose given to you by the King?
Passage: Acts 13:13-39
Notes Three Things David Gives Us Permission to be Real Purpose for Life Promise of Hope
Questions for thought
What are you doing to be real with others and God, about your struggles?
What is your Purpose for Life (your missionary journey)?
How has God gifted you, so that you can serve others?
What is your ultimate hope? Where does it come form?
Passage: 2 Samuel 12:1-14
Notes Psalm 51 The Power of Sin The Power of Friends The Power of Repentance The Power of Forgiveness
Questions for thought
Why do we fail to notice our blind spots?
What are you doing to remove your Bathsheba type temptations that pulls and separates you away from God?
What friend (Nathan) do you have in your life that can speak Truth to you and help reveal your blind spots?
How do you find repentance so that you can get right with God?
Passage: 2 Samuel 9:1-13
Questions for thought
How do you describe loyal love?
Why are we afraid to acknowledge our crippled morality?
God who are you that you acknowledge a dead dog like me?
What must we do to have a place at His table?
Passage: 2 Samuel 6
Notes
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Half-hearted Worship
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Misguided Worship
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Self-centered Worship
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Fully Engaged Worship
Questions for thought
What do you have in your life that only shows Half-hearted worship to God?
In our misguided worship where do we elevate ourselves more than we should or lessen God?
What is wrong with the statement "I didn't get anything out of worship today"? How can we change it to "What can I give to this relationship"?
What can we do in our lives to fully engage God in worship?
It's Not about HOW we worship God, It is about about the WHY we worship God
Passage 1 Samuel 24
Notes 1) It's about the right path not the easy path 2) It's about the office not the office holder 3) It's about trusting the Lord not being the Lord
Questions for thought
What is your integrity when faced with an easy way out to solve your problem instead of the correct way?
What do you do to respect the office regardless of the person? (teacher, boss, politics...)
How can we show God's mercy by showing mercy to others? (especially our enemy)
Passage: 1 Samuel 17: 32-50
Questions for thought
Where in our culture do you hear David & Goliath referenced?
Do you ever cower like Saul (or the Israelites) when faced with large challenges?
What giants in your life defy God? (habits, people, circumstances... )
How can you trust God when faced with a giant?
Passage: Acts 11:19 - 30
Questions for thought
What traditions are you observing that prevents you from spreading the Gospel?
How are you known first? (Christian, job, sport team, political affiliation)
What risks are you taking for the Gospel?
How strong is your study of the Word of God and prayer life?
Passage: Deuteronomy 6:4-9,20-25
Questions for thought
What are you doing to disciple another or to have someone disciple you?
What are you doing to positively influence the group(table) that you are a part of?
What commandment have you written on your heart and teaching to others?
What happens when we do not pass our faith to the next generation?
Passage: John 21:1-19
Questions for thought
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Are there obstacles in your mind and heart preventing you from experiencing the true freedom in the amazing grace of Christ Jesus?
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Are you eager enough to serve God that you are willing to take risks regardless of the consequences?
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Are you prepared to ask Jesus to know your true heart as Peter pleaded for Jesus to know the true desires of his heart?
Passage John 15:1-17
Questions for thought
Are you intimately connected with Jesus on a daily basis?
Are you excited to connect with Jesus on a daily basis?
As a branch, where are you connected and what type of fruit are you producing?
Are you sharing God in your actions with Love or are you just a noisy gong or clashing cymbal?
Passage 1 Kings 19
Questions for thought
How strong is your relationship with God?
What stuff in your life is so Heavy that you can't turn it over to God?
You are uniquely designed to carry out God's plan in your life." Do you realize and accept this fact in your heart?
In What simple ways is God revealing Himself to you in ordinary ways?
Passage Genesis 1:24-31
Questions for thought
Who is the "us" in Gen 1:26 "Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness.." ?
Why did God make his children different?
What is the difference between "knowing of God" and "knowing God"?
Passage 1 Corinthians 3:5-11
Questions for thought
How do you share your faith in Jesus?
What are you doing in the world around you to dream small?
Are you making a difference in another person's life?
Are you afraid to share the Gospel, because you feel responsible for the outcome?
What small thing are you doing to play a part in the lives of the people in front of you?
Passage: John 1:35-42
Questions for thought
Like the disciple Andrew, Do you introduce people to Jesus?
Are you Available to take the time to introduce others to Jesus?
Is your life changed and different enough to make your testimony Believable?
Are you Committed to Jesus, so that your life is changed by the Lamb of God encouraging you to introduce Him to others?
Passage Mark 1:14-28
Questions for thought
What do you want to look back on and know that is your legacy?
Do you hear Jesus asking you to follow Him?
Do you believe in who Jesus is or do you choose to follow Him?
What is preventing you from being all in with Jesus and being a fisher of men?
Are you willing to go to another level by following Him?
Passage: Luke 15:11-32
Questions for thought
Are you willing to accept the forgiveness of the Father so you can join the feast?
Why does no one go after the lost son? Who should have gone after him?
Who is the True older brother?
Do you believe in God's Graciousness or have you taken the steps to actually taste it?
Are you part of a group that is only complete by the sum of its members?
NOTES:
Prodigal: 1) recklessly extravagant 2) To give or spend until you have nothing left
“There is a difference between believing that God is holy and gracious, and having a new sense on the heart of the loveliness and beauty of that holiness and grace. The difference between believing that God is gracious and tasting that God is gracious is as different as having a rational belief that honey is sweet and having the actual sense of its sweetness.” Johnathan Edwards
Passage Luke 15:25-32
Questions for thought
What mess are you involved in that you don't realize you are lost? (your stink)
Why is the older brother angry when his brother returns?
What is the older brother's response to the Father upon the younger brother's return? And the father's response back to the older brother?
With the abrupt ending of this parable, how does your life complete this story?
Do you relate more with the older or younger son?
Passage Luke 15:11-24
Questions for thought
Have you been so Lost, that your hope was crushed?
What things capture your heart that causes you to waste your inheritance?
Knowing the depth of your sin, do you understand the magnitude of God's Love for you?
Is it possible that you are not so broken that God will accept you where you are?
What must I do to accept the forgiveness God has for me?
Passage Habakkuk 3
Questions for thought
What does it mean to Worship God when the world is trying to oppress us?
What in your life receives the most worship?
How do you worship God in ALL that you do?
What feeds your soul?
Passage: Habakkuk 2
Questions for thought
Is it wrong to ask questions to God?
When things do not seem fair, do you pause to listen and hear what the Lord has to say to you?
Why do we struggle when we have to wait on God's time?
How can we broaden our understanding of the scripture, "The just will live by Faith"?
How do we control our wants to align with God's design for us?
Passage Habakkuk 1:1-4, 12-17
Questions for thought Is fairness of life different today then in the past?
What are the dangers of our human myopic view of life?
How can we see the long view that God has designed?
Do you ever stop to ask God "What He is doing in the world today, so that you can know His plan and become a part of it?"
Passage James 2:14-26
Questions for thought Is Faith enough to save you?
Is your salvation shown by faith or by works?
What do you do to posses your Faith?
Do you have a Living Faith?
What are you doing to trust Jesus?
Passage: John 1:1, 14-18
Questions for thought When you fail, do you seek a person of Grace or Truth?
Are you a person of Grace or Truth?
What is something you can do to show the Grace and Truth of Jesus to a non-Christian?
Passage: Acts 2:14-181 & 1 Timothy 1:1-4
Questions for thought:
What was the key difference in how God poured out the Holy Spirt before Pentecost and after Pentecost?
Why is intergenerational discipleship critical to the continuation and growth of the church?
Who is your Paul? Who is your Timothy?
Passage Hebrews 2:5-9
Questions for thought
Does your anticipation of Jesus' coming change your actions today?
Do you ask God questions to understand Him more?
Why has Jesus not defeated Satan once and for all?
Passage 1 John 1:1-10
Questions for thought
How digitally connected are you?
Are you in fellowship with God to enrich your relationship with others? Are you in fellowship with others to enrich your relationship with God?
What is it that binds us together?
Why are we hesitant to form relationships in person?
Questions for thought: Everyone is a slave to something. What are you a slave to?
Are you so comfortable with your slavery that you fear your freedom?
Do you know what to do with your freedom?
Why would anyone choose to be a slave to Jesus?
Passage: Psalm 8
Questions for thought
O Lord our Lord, How majestic is your name?
Who is God in your Life?
Do you relate to God as one who is transcendent or immanent?
Do you worship a God that meets your desires or your needs?
Passage: Romans 7:15-8:1
1) A Real Christian Struggles With Sin 2) A Real Christian Acknowledges That Struggle 3) A Real Christian Relies on Christ’s Victory in the Struggle
Questions for thought
Does your perspective cloud your acceptance of another person's understanding?
Do you struggle with the things that you should/shouldn't do?
Who will rescue you from the Sin that you struggle with?
Are you in a relationship with other Christians to help you grow in Jesus?
Passage: Luke 19:41-44
Questions for thought
In life do you expect something so deeply that when it happens you miss the meaning or purpose of it?
What is the message for us in Jesus?
When does eternal life begin for us with Jesus?
What type of Messiah are you looking for?
Genesis 22:1-20
Questions for thought What is your only comfort in life and death?
What is the purpose of God testing us? (What is the purpose of Satan testing us?)
Do you think that Abraham had to struggle with Isaac to put him on the altar for sacrifice?
Genesis 16:1-14
FIRST TAKE AWAY Decisions made under duress and in the moment rarely go well.
SECOND TAKE AWAY Failing to take counsel from others can lead to disaster.
Proverbs 11:14 Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.
Proverbs 24:6 for by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.
THIRD TAKE AWAY God does not always follow the world’s wisdom
FOURTH TAKE AWAY It doesn’t matter how many bad decisions you make, God never gives up on you.
Questions for thought How do you know what God's will is for you?
What goes wrong between Sarai, Abram and Hagar?
What happens when we go outside of God's will for us?
Genesis 15:1-21
Questions for thought What is the difference between Believing in God Believing God
For the covenant (Genesis 15:17-21) who passed between the carcasses? What is the significance of this?
What can we do on our own to be right with God?
Genesis 12:10-20
I can't see how You're leading me Unless You've led me here; To where I'm lost enough to let myself be led...
And so You've been here all along, I guess; It's just Your ways and You are just plain hard to get...
1) Humanity’s second chance was at God’s Initiative. 2) Humanity’s second chance required faith in God. Even it that faith was imperfect. 3) Humanity’s second chance finds its fulfillment in Christ
“I command thee to go forth with closed eyes …until having renounced thy country thou shalt have given thyself wholly to me” John Calvin
What is Biblical Hope? It is a certain and secure future that powerfully shapes us here in the present because of what GOD has done in the past.
“Hope is the way we overcome the lurking suspicion that all our getting and spending amounts to fidgeting while we wait for death.” – Andrew Delbanco
“This hope we hold as the utterly reliable anchor for our souls, fixed in the very certainty of God himself in Heaven, where Jesus has already entered on our behalf, …” – Hebrews 6:19 (J.B. Phillips Translation)
And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment.” – Revelation 21:6 (ESV)
Romans 8:1-17
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic* church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins,
1) Indwells all followers of Jesus to experience forgiveness
2) Empowers all followers of Jesus to live for Him
3) Unites all followers of Jesus into God’s family the church
•Jesus always calls us into a future that's beyond our control and is rarely safe.
•Jesus invites us out of comfort to produce a faith dependent on Him alone; nothing more, nothing less and nothing else.
•The same Jesus that calls us out of the boat is the same Jesus that saves us from sinking.
Some people say, “God will never ask me to do something I can’t do.” I have come to the place in my life that, if the assignment I sense God is giving me is something that I know I can handle, I know it is probably not from God. The kind of assignments God gives in the Bible are always God-sized. They are always beyond what people can do, because He wants to demonstrate His nature, His strength, His provision, and His kindness to His people and to a watching world. This is the only way the world will come to know Him. - John Ortberg, If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to Get Out of the Boat”