Destination Church Spokane Podcast: Recent Episodes
Destination Church Spokane
God loves people and so do we! At Destination Church Spokane, you've found a place to be loved, a place to believe, and a place to belong. We are here to love God, love people, to serve, and to share the good news of Jesus. We are committed to forming authentic relationships while learning more about our amazing God, allowing Him to change our lives.
Can we really find hope in God's sovereignty? What about in seasons of extreme difficulty? Furthermore, is it right for us to think of ourselves as having a significant role in God's sovereign plan and purpose? When we understand sovereignty in a biblical way, we can live, not as passive pawns in a cosmic chess match, but as key partners in God's great purpose in the earth, sealed with the Spirit of God, reflecting our Savior-King, and bringing glory to our Father. This is true, not only during our easy days, but maybe even more evident in our days of difficulty. (Note: This message was shared as the Spokane Complex Fires continued to burn around the city and region.)
As Paul begins to dive into his letter to the Ephesians, he leads immediately into a 'big reveal' of God's plans from before the beginning of creation. We discover that the blessings we can enjoy today flow from our adoption as sons and daughters, and from God's eternal plans to reconcile all things under Christ.
What does it mean to be an apostolic church today? What does that look like? There are seven key elements that every local church should seek to embrace fully if we want to build according to the pattern of the apostles of Jesus as they sought to obey His commission to make disciples.
Imagine... What would it look like to be a part of a church family that's not only stable, but also prepared to multiply and to spread across the nations? What would this church family prioritize? How would they treat one another? How would they participate in the community around them? When we look at the priorities of the church in Acts 2 we are looking at a beautiful pattern, and even a mirror of what a healthy church can be still today: full of life and full of the Spirit of God.
Jesus didn't die just to make us less sinful and so we would 'try to be better.' The gospel is so much more than this! Peace with God, total access to Him, hope, assurance of our salvation and confidence that flows from this, knowing that we will be glorified with Christ - these are realities that are ours in Christ Jesus! Because of Him, we have multiple reasons to celebrate!
Which is more holy: to quietly trust God's sovereignty, or to trust God and plan intentionally for the future? It's possible to err in the extremes of either direction, so let's learn from Jesus as He tells a story about about a man who entrusts ten of his servants with his own resources, instructing them, "Engage in business until I come back." Being wise with finances, and putting to work whatever resources God has entrusted to us, is actually a healthy thing! The key is to honor Jesus as we do these things, committing our dreams, goals, and plans to Him, then acting in obedient, submitted faith.
How did Peter the fisherman become Peter the faithful friend and church father? The answer is found in the faithfulness of Jesus. If ever there was a friend who sticks closer than a brother, Jesus is that friend. Peter, who had denied Jesus in His most vulnerable moment, is pursued and encouraged, transformed by the grace of God extended to him, and recommissioned by Jesus on a memorable day on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. This same Jesus is transforming us to be faithful friends who can extend His prophetic call, challenge, care, correction, and commission to others.
Does God want us to be afraid or to be full of faith? The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7), but far from life-long anxiety, this God kind of fear also brings a strong confidence (Proverbs 14:26). The day Peter met Jesus on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he went through the full spectrum of emotions. The fear he felt at first made him want to get away from Jesus, but that quickly turned into an awe that led him to leave everything and follow Jesus. Jesus good word to Peter is also a good word to us today: "Do not be afraid!"
If you were God, how would you choose to conclude the Old Testament Scriptures? The last few sentences of Malachi in our Bibles reveal the relational heart of God for families. They also point to the significant influence the family of God can have as we build the culture of His kingdom one family at a time, one conversation at a time, and one God-honoring conversation at a time. This final part of our Big Question series was spoken on Mother's Day, but the principles we learn about healthy parenting apply to every influencer. Teach them to: Look Back, Look Ahead, Look Up, Look In, and Look Outward.
From movies to media preachers, "The end is near!" is a common theme. But what does God have to say about 'The End?' Malachi describes a coming day of radical contrasts: consuming fire, yet for the righteous, a day of joy and freedom. This day brings destruction for the wicked, but it brings dancing for those who fear the Lord. The really important question each of us must answer is this: which group are we in? In Christ, we can know the answer, and we can look forward to 'the coming day' with great anticipation.
Our words are powerful tools, and God takes note of how we use them. Words reveal hearts, and God loves to transform us from fault-finders into faith-finders. One of the most significant ways He transforms both our hearts (the fountain-source of our words) is by revealing Himself to us as our Faithful Father, who loves to act on our behalf, and who speaks of us as His own treasured possession. The more we understand the beautiful family relationship and eternal reward that is ours in Christ, the more we can become a source of encouragement to many others, using our words as God intends!
When God answers the question, "How can we return to You?" we might be surprised when he starts talking about money and giving. When we learn to bring freely what rightfully belongs to Him, we are also learning to lead our hearts into healthy relationship with Him. The 'Tenth Test' is a good way to evaluate where our hearts really are, and to whom (or to what) they really belong. As we learn to trust God in the way we give of our treasure (time, resource, talents, and prayer), our hearts discover freedom from financial idolatry and the joy of partnering with God's purpose in glorifying His name in the earth.
God is committed to transforming us as His holy people. When we encounter His presence, we shouldn't be surprised when we find ourselves feeling undone, powerless in comparison to Him. Like a refining fire, God melts our hearts, purifying us as he reveals sin we didn't even realize we were carrying. He makes us pleasing to Himself, even as the gospel also pierces our hearts, testifying to the sinfulness of sin and setting us free to live differently. Finally, God protects us through His covenant promise made to Abraham and extended to us through Jesus Christ. God loves us too much to leave us in our sin; He is committed to removing it from our lives and separating us from its destructive effects.
Jesus' body was lying dead in a stone tomb. What had become of all His confident words? What had become of all the hopes and dreams of the women who watched the stone roll into place? But Jesus had also said His death was necessary, and promised He would be raised up on the third day. As we celebrate Easter Sunday, we remember that, "What the law could not do... God did" (Romans 8:3). The same Jesus who declared, "Your sins are forgiven," (Luke 5) and, "Your faith has saved you," (Luke 7) can actually do these things! If Jesus is alive, then hope is alive with Him!
"Where is the God of justice?" The question is asked in culture after culture as people face the realities of evil in the world. Sometimes the question can be thrown back at God when we feel challenged by His word regarding our own sin. "Why would God care so much about my sin if He doesn't seem to care about the sin all around me?" God's answer to 'the justice question' may surprise us: "The Lord you seek will suddenly come to His temple." Then, when Jesus comes riding into Jerusalem in fulfillment of this prophecy through Malachi, where does He go? To His temple, His own house. He comes to bring peace; He comes in triumph; and He comes with great purpose. And He's not afraid to turn over tables of idolatry in our lives. So, where is the God of justice? He's very present among His people, and He's ready to build a new culture - in and through us.
Does God care who we marry? Is divorce always wrong? Why are there such strong statements in the Scriptures regarding this topic? These are no small questions, and God has much to say. In part 4 of Big Questions, we look at Malachi 2:10-16 as we dive into the question: What does God think about marriage and divorce? The reasons God thinks the way He does may be surprising to us! God loves the next generation, and He knows just how much the influence of marriages all around them - not only the relationship between their own parents - are shaping their faith.
What does God think about truth? This is the question in Part 3 of our Malachi: Big Questions series. As Malachi's challenge to the people of God in his day continues, he addresses the priests, the leaders who are meant to represent God and His character in a truthful way before the people. Their failure to represent Him well before the people was having negative effects on future generations. Today, it's as important as it has ever been that the church of Jesus Christ embraces our role and calling to take God's truth to heart, to teach truthfully, and to turn to our wonderful Savior, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
As we continue forward in Malachi, we're asking the Big Question: What Does God Think About Worship? What kind of worship does God desire? The answer is simple: He wants our hearts. He's not after empty ritual, a kind of 'going through the motions' that offers Him our left-overs or our second-best. In fact, He calls that kind of sacrifice 'defiled!' So, how can we bring God worship that honors Him in both our attitude and our action? What sacrifice can we rightly bring to a God who is King of Kings and Lord of Lords? It begins with recognizing Him for who He is.
To a people who have questions about their relationship with God, He has much to say! When we live in a world full of difficulty it can also be difficult to recognize God's love for us, and so He begins His message through Malachi to His people with these four words: "I have loved you." How, exactly? This is what He wants to talk to us about, and His answer reveals much about His covenant promise, His ongoing choice to extend His faithful love to His chosen people.
The surpassing grace of God in us enables us to be an 'above and beyond' people, generously ministering to others in such a way that they overflow with thanksgiving, glorifying God. This kind of generosity, itself inspired by God's 'indescribable' gift of grace extended to us in Christ, also inspires deep affection, building bridges of community even in previously 'unbridgeable,' 'other-side-of-the-tracks' situations. Just as with the Corinthians who first heard Paul's teaching on such generous grace, we too have a decision to make: how will we respond to what we have heard?
God has designed our world with multiplication in mind, and farmers sow seed expecting a multiplied harvest. We're wise to believe Jesus when he says, "Give and it will be given to you... pressed down, shaken together, and running over..." (Luke 6:37). When we learn the kingdom principles of sowing and reaping, that God is more than able to resource a generous people to continue being generous, and that God Himself is our provider, we can also wisely sow with great generosity and with great faith.
The frame through which we view the Scriptures will effect how we read them. As Paul encourages the Corinthian church toward faithful generosity in 2 Corinthians 9:1-7, there are three helpful frames that help us see generosity the way God does. As we begin to see that grace-giving is ministry, is meant to be intentional, and is part of our personal worship, our hearts are also adventuring along with the generous heart of God Himself. He is a cheerful giver, and is very intentional in the way He lavishes blessing on us as His people!
Paul doesn't just send a letter; he sends a friend. What a wonderful expression of the relational heart of God, who has done the same thing for us through Christ. As we are learning to be open and transparent in the way we handle resources, we do so best in the context of relationship. When it's healthy, this kind of voluntary accountability truly does grow into a powerful proof of love, the gospel on display in a way we maybe don't often consider: mature follow-through, not just regarding finances, but in every area of our lives.
Gospel equality is win-win! When Paul speaks of building a culture of equality between churches, he points us back to the Exodus story and God's miraculous provision of manna, the "what-is-it?" provision He gave them daily for 40 years. No one was meant to have either too much or too little manna, learning through this to trust God day after day. God's heart is still to resource His people in such a way that we learn to trust His provision even as we are also diligent to gather and to bless others.
Love is not just some theoretical concept, but, says Paul, it can actually be tested and measured according to its generosity. Genuine love is generous, and as it grows in us, we'll find a growing desire to be diligent in that generosity. Paul's challenge to the Corinthian church is, "Excel in this act of grace," and we are right to hear this as a challenge to us as well. With Jesus' own gracious gift as our example, we'll find an abundance of grace to act with generous hearts, faithfully offering back to Him from whatever resource He has entrusted to us.
First things first: God is for us before He ever asks anything from us. Generosity begins, not with how generous we are, but how graciously generous God is toward us in Christ. When we receive His grace, and we see ourselves and others through the vision He gives, we are well-equipped to overflow with daring generosity. As we learn from the example of the Macedonian church, we, like the Corinthians to whom Paul is writing, are challenged: "Let this same grace find completion in you."
It is doubtless that Mary and Joseph's 'Christmas' was a hectic one, and often, the Christmas season can be chaotic for many families today. In answer to the many prayers that have been offered up in all kinds of surprising situations in many generations, God has given His Son. Jesus can bring us rest, rescue, and reconciliation, and He can bring us reason for great joy. Jesus is the answer, this Christmas, and always.
After 9 months (or more) of long silence, when Zechariah's voice was finally restored, the overflow of his heart was to glorify the Lord. The gospel can overflow our own hearts, not only in a specific season or a special day, but all year long, and every day of our lives. What is overflowing from our hearts this Christmas? It's a good question, a question that the good news of Jesus, our Messiah, can help us answer without fear.
Friendships centered in God's promise and in an atmosphere of faith are so vital to helping us keep saying yes to God's plan for our lives. Especially when God's word seems challenging or even confusing, who can be an 'Elizabeth' for us, someone who is committed to honoring God and His word, and has seen Him move in their lives? We could almost always settle for someone who will be merely an "echo chamber," confirming what we'd like to hear, but finding an 'Elizabeth' who will celebrate God's word in our lives is a special gift! Then, when we get a chance to be that gift for someone else, we can enjoy the overflow of faith in them, too!
When Mary is approached by Gabriel, she is filled with concern, and one big question: "How?" But she was being pursued by grace and God had a plan for her personally - by name - that would shape the course of all of history. Despite her initial bewilderment, she offers herself freely as the Lord's servant; and we, too, have the opportunity to say yes to God's grace. One of the wisest prayers we can pray is to agree with Mary's words in Luke 1: "Be it unto me according to Your word."
Faithfulness in prayer and service is no small thing, especially when fruitfulness has been long delayed. In seasons of delay or little fruit, we could even begin to question if we're really qualified to approach God on behalf of ourselves or others. Our identity in Christ, however, is not dependent on our feelings; it's dependent on God's word of grace and truth. In God's own gracious power, He knows just how to bring us into a place of sovereign fruitfulness that our own efforts could never produce. In Luke 1, Zechariah discovers that his deepest prayer had been heard all along, and in Christ we can be confident that the same is true for us.
When we hear that people are praying for us and have such a passion and zeal for the church, it encourages us. As Paul thinks of the church in Ephesus, he is filled with thankfulness - and Paul is only man! When Jesus thinks of us, we can only imagine the extent to which he knows us. We already have so much to be thankful for and yet God is still working on our behalf to help us know Him more and see each other with His eyes.
Jesus went through temptations, none greater than when he went to the cross in perfect submission to the Father. And from this place of praying, Jesus encouraged and challenged his disciples to watch and pray so that they do not fall into temptation. Because Jesus suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those whose are being tempted. If hard times have not come to you yet, they will someday. Build on the foundation of Christ.
If God is sovereign and what He has spoken is going to come to pass, then how should we pray? While it would be futile to pray that we would never experience suffering or difficulty as God's purpose unfolds, Jesus does give clear instruction: pray for mercy as well as for limits on the wickedness in our time. When our prayers are also coupled with clear biblical vision aligned with the word of Christ, we can pray confidently for effective gospel advance, our hearts ready and mobile to partner in the promise of a great harvest.
Even Jesus was often misunderstood! Our perspective of Him will shape our perspective of prayer. Are we praying to a God who is truly sovereign or only sort-of-sovereign? Learning to trust Him will help us come to Him with humility, honoring God in the way we pray.
Everywhere Jesus was going, miraculous things were happening. But He was planning something more when He taught His first disciples to, "Pray to the Lord of the harvest to send workers into his harvest field." What followed that instruction to pray? Preparation to go into those fields. Jesus sends the same ones who are praying, and Jesus doesn't send them ill-equipped for the mission. Today, when we pray to our Father to send workers into the fields around us, we can pray with great expectation that He is preparing our hearts to go, too.
Is it right for us to come with an expectant attitude when we're praying, especially when we're asking God for things? Is it rude for us to keep asking him for the same things? The answers to these questions have a lot to do with motive, of course, but Jesus' words are very clear: "Ask and it will be given to you. Seek and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened," We are intended and instructed to ask, seek, and knock, and this is a significant part of the way our Father trains and matures us as His children. Expecting, persisting, trusting, and partnering with God are all a part of a healthy life of prayer.
When Jesus says, "You should pray like this:" we're about to learn something very important if we pay attention. What follows these instructive words from Jesus is what we know as the Lord's Prayer. What if we really use this as not just something to recite, but a pattern for a life-giving, sustainable prayer life? Could this be a tool to help transform prayer from a laundry list of "I need," and "I'm sorry," to a kingdom-focused, relationship-oriented engagement with our Father and His mission in the earth? Actually, yes, this is exactly what Jesus is teaching His disciples to do. Our needs are still addressed, and repentance still has its vital role, but in a much wider picture of the purpose of God.
Wouldn't it be amazing to have Jesus teach us to pray? In The Sermon On The Mount Jesus takes some time to teach into prayer. For people who feel like their prayers seem like a performance or a pretense; for people who feel distracted when they try to pray; and for people who are learning to relate to God as a Father rather than a CEO, nebulous 'force,' or a mere 'granter of wishes,' Jesus has something to teach us all: 1.) We can step off the stage. 2.) We can step away from distractions. 3.) We can step into relationship with our Father in heaven.
As Destination Church celebrates seven years in the Hillyard neighborhood of Spokane, we look back on some of what God has done and look ahead toward our call to bring in a great harvest in the neighborhoods of our city as well as across the nations of the world. 1 Samuel 22:2 is a key verse: God gathering the desperate and mobilizing them under godly leadership. Jeremiah 40:12 is another great example of God gathering a people out of desperate circumstances and then commissioning them to bring in an abundant harvest. What will God do in our own day as we step forward into the next seven years?
As Jesus comes toward the end of His prayer in John 17, He turns His focus toward... us! What is it that Jesus is praying for us, for His church? Unity: "May they all be one." Why is this so important to Jesus? "So that the world may believe." Can we actually experience what is, for so many, an elusive idea? While our ultimate oneness will be fully realized only in Jesus' coming kingdom, we can experience a measure of that unity even now, and Jesus is the one who enables it.
Performance-oriented religion will leave us feeling weary and burdened, but Jesus has a different path for us! Breakthrough belongs to Him and salvation through Him, so when we feel weary or burdened Jesus wants us to come to Him with all of it. He doesn't just give a motivational speech, merely reprimand us, or simply tolerate us. He, "...will give you rest" ... "rest for your soul..." (Matt 11:28-29) Is there still meaningful work for us to do in this life? Absolutely, and the 'yoke' of Jesus fits us well. His burden for us is light. Does this mean our work and our prayers are somehow 'lightweight?' No way. In Christ, our prayers are powerful, not puny.
What would it be like to have Jesus pray specifically for you? What do you think He would say? In John Chapter 17, Jesus prays personally for His disciples, revealing His heart for those who follow Him. His prayer doesn't begin with a 'laundry list' of demands or requests for God, but rather He talks reflectively with His Father about how things are going with them. As we listen to Jesus pray for His friends, we are also gaining insight into how to pray for those in close relationship with us. Just as Jesus' words carry blessings of unity, joy, protection, truth, and commission, so we can partner with Him in praying the same way.
What would it be like to listen in to Jesus praying? What could we learn? In John Chapter 17, we get the opportunity to do exactly this, and one the discoveries we make is that the God to whom we pray is a God of relationship. This God is deeply generous, and really wants us to be with Him. If we want to know Him in return, to glorify Him in the earth, and to find our greatest fulfillment in His presence, then we can rest assured... we are aligning with the heart of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Scandalous grace! God's compassion and care for not only 'good' people, but really not good people is astounding, and can even offend our sensibilities. Jonah is furious that God would act this way toward 'those people!' The surgery God does on his heart begins with a simple question: "Is it right for you to be angry?" God leads Jonah - and us along with him - into a discovery of His heart for both the people of Ninevah and the people wherever He sends us. Jonah leaves us asking another question: "How will we respond to the scandalous grace of God?" His grace will challenge us, even allowing us to feel discomfort and loss when necessary, and will be with us every step of the journey.
The people of Judah we encounter in the Old Testament book of Joel are struggling after serious disaster. Crops have been decimated by infestations of locusts, while fire and drought have destroyed pasture land. The resulting lack is so significant that even temple offerings of grain and wine have been cut off. The prophet Joel calls all the people, from the greatest to the least, to pray. In response to their prayers, God promises that much-needed rain and the resulting abundant harvest are on the way. Their work in the fields - sowing, tending, gathering, etc. - can now proceed in joyful faith, knowing that an abundant, diverse harvest is sure. Our 'fields' and neighborhoods today are awaiting us too, and God is bringing His rain of righteousness to them at just the right time.
Jonah has already run away from God's purpose once, but that isn't the end of his story or of God's calling on his life. Like Jonah, we may not always like the places and people to which God commissions us to go, but Jesus' Great Commission to go to all peoples and nations - even the 'Ninevahs' of our time - is in full effect. Despite Jonah's reluctance, the people of Nineveh listen to God and repent, humbling themselves before Him, wearing sackcloth as an outward sign of their repentance. Jesus, our Greater Jonah, humbled Himself even to a death on a cross, and because of His sacrifice we can now be clothed in the new garments He provides, garments of praise, of salvation, and of righteousness. He knows just how to 'overthrow' our hearts, to lead us through humble repentance His new life.
Just when things couldn't get any worse, God had a surprise in store for Jonah, and he was swallowed - yes, swallowed - by a huge fish! What probably seemed like the end for Jonah was actually God's plan of rescue, and from the belly of the fish Jonah prayed. During his three days and three nights in the darkness and the juices of a fish's stomach, God was doing a work in his heart, and Jonah's prayer can point us to the Lord too, even - and maybe especially - in times of deepest distress.
The sailors had tried everything to avoid throwing Jonah overboard, but all their collective efforts were not enough to save themselves or the ship. They prayed to Jonah's God and then they listened to Jonah's instruction, throwing him into the raging sea. Jesus, our Greater Jonah, has also been cast into the grave on our behalf, and through faith in Him we'll discover the power and provision of God. Like the sailors in Jonah's story, we'll discover the rescue of the gospel, and this saving faith becomes a shaping faith, transforming our decisions and inspiring grateful sacrifice.
The ship Jonah used in order to run from God's presence ran him straight into a storm, and no matter how hard the sailors tried to row they couldn't break free from it. When we find ourselves in a serious 'headwind' that threatens to sink our ship, it's important to remember that not every storm is because of sin! It's also important to remember that every sin does lead to stormy weather. If we've found ourselves in one of those storms, repentance is always the best course correction we can make. It's the perfect time to heed the voice of God, turning to the One who can wake us up, soften our hearts, and free us from condemnation.
God isn't afraid to ask us to do something we really don't want to do or that doesn't feel at all natural to us. This was certainly the case when He asked Jonah to go to "them," the people of the wicked city of Nineveh. Jonah's response? He's so offended that he runs away, not only from God's call but also from His presence. So, Jonah finds a ship going as far from God's instruction as possible. There will always be a "ship" - a hobby, a business venture, even a new church! - ready to take us away from God's purpose, and it's relatively easy for us to find ways to 'run away' from God if we really want to. But God's loving purpose for "them" and for us is not just going to go away. His grace is too good for that! Today is a good day to evaluate if we've been trying to shut out God's voice by running, by staying busy, or by 'doing church' from a safe distance.
In this final message of the Son of David series, we are discovering Jesus in a way we might not have expected! Psalm 45 is a royal wedding song, a beautiful poem of love and joy. The writer of Hebrews makes it clear this is also a foreshadowing of Jesus, the Bridegroom King. His appearance? - "the most handsome." His speech? - "grace flows from His lips." He has the character of a warrior and is triumphant in the cause of truth, humility, and justice. And maybe most surprising of all - He is full of joy! The Church is described as His Bride, and she, too, is celebrating! At her King's right hand, she is adorned with gold, beautiful and desirable. Our celebrating Messiah sees us like this, and we have an amazing future with our even more amazing King.
The Pharisees knew the Psalms, but Jesus' question about Psalm 110 left them speechless. Why does David call the Messiah "Lord"? How can the Son of David also be his Lord? As we dive further into this psalm we can begin to see this Lord as Divine King, Eternal Priest, and Ultimate Victor. And just who is this Divine Messiah? The New Testament is very clear: Jesus.
When Mary brings the expensive perfume to anoint Jesus she is pouring out a costly, atmosphere-changing, sacrifice of worship. Acts of costly worship like this also expose hearts. Judas is offended, claiming that she is being wasteful and that she could have sold it to give to the poor. But what does Jesus call it? "Beautiful." His rebuke of Judas seems to be one of the final straws leading to Judas' betrayal, and Jesus has something to say about this, too. "The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him..."
"My God, my God, why have You abandoned me?" It's a cry of anguish and isolation, of traumatic emotional pain. Both David and Jesus cried these words out to God, even though each of them still acknowledge who God is the midst of their pain. The pain of David's trauma and of Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross is not the end, and the psalm continues. "You answered me!" Still today, God hears our cries and is faithful to His promises, even when the path to which He calls us leads through a 'cross.'
At times, life can seem overwhelming! Though Psalm 16 isn't a Mother's Day psalm, there are lots of applications to motherhood. Every one of us, including moms, can find fresh hope as we rediscover that God is a refuge, even in life's most difficult moments. Psalm 16 is a good reminder that: we are surrounded by holy people in progress, being shaped by His grace; God has an amazing inheritance for us, offering Himself to us fully; and His word guards and guides us, bringing clarity in confusion. Most importantly, when we entrust ourselves to Jesus, we are trusting in a resurrected Messiah who walks with us through every trial and who promises eternal life.
God is truly magnificent, and the majesty of His Creation is meant to leave us in awe as it points us to Him. From the the wonder of stars and galaxies to the voices of tiny children, all Creation testifies to the greatness of God. In the vastness of it all, we may wonder why God would give such dignity to humans, and Psalm 8 poses this same question. And it's in this question that God speaks prophetically about one "son of man" in particular, who the New Testament reveals to be Jesus. In Him, we discover our own dignity as sons of Adam and daughters of Eve.
Psalm 2 describes the nations raging against God. God is not nervous or in the least bit intimidated by this, but instead ... He laughs! God is truly sovereign and when we stand with him we can have confidence. All the sovereign power and glory the Father has He has promised to Jesus His Son, and part of that promise includes the nations of the earth. All nations are invited, and wise, to draw near in reverence and awe to "kiss the Son." We too are invited into the joy of living under the reign of Jesus the Messiah, the King of the Nations.
Is Jesus really the one? Is He the promised Messiah, and did He really rise from the dead? Maybe most importantly, is there really hope promised to us in His name? People are still asking these questions today, and for Jesus' first followers, they took some convincing of the answers! In Luke 24 we revisit the resurrection story, and discover how Jesus reveals Himself through relationship and through the Scriptures themselves. It was important to Him that His disciples' hope in Him was rooted not only in their experiences - as important as those are! - but also in the foundation of the prophetic Scriptures.
Jesus had been determined to go to Jerusalem. He had also been predicting his coming death and resurrection, and though no one seemed to understand what he meant, his purpose was clear. As Jesus now rides into Jerusalem on a young donkey, the crowds cry, "Peace...!" but the peace he is bringing will look so different than any of them could imagine. His peace will extend to every nation, tribe, people, and language, and it will come through a cross.
What do we mean when we say we willingly receive and actively pursue relationship with recognized apostolic and prophetic ministries? What is the role of these foundational gifts in the twenty-first century church? We tackle these questions and more in the final session of Core.
Over time, healthy families... grow! A church that is embracing biblical core values can expect God to keep adding to them. Our God, who 'moved into our neighborhood,' for our benefit helps us to understand that we our local church exists both for the good of one another and for those who are not here yet. We all have a significant role to play as we partner in God's mission in the earth "to seek and save the lost," and that means asking some important questions: "Where has God positioned us?" "Where is He positioning us now?" The answers to questions like these will help us embrace the growth God brings and the multiplication God initiates.
Our God very generous! His generous grace awakens generosity in our own hearts, too. This frees our hearts from possessiveness and fear, transforms our priorities, and is a significant part of becoming more like Jesus. God's kingdom is a generous one and it is advancing through His generous people.
Is God worthy of our worship and praise? If so, how can help lead our hearts into genuine worship of Him in times where we may not feel particularly worshipful? Learning how to lead our hearts according to the gospel rather than to be led around by how we feel in a particular moment is an important part of our discipleship. Learning to present our bodies as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) and to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30) are part of that process. As we explore our value of being 'a worshiping people,' we talk about the choice to engage our minds, mouths, and even our physical bodies in praising God, and the promise that accompanies Christ's invitation to do this.
What does it mean to be a charismatic church? It isn't about music style or hands-in-the-air expression; it's so much more than that! It means embracing the gifts of God among us, enjoying fellowship in the Spirit together, and functioning in the many gifts He gives. When we embrace this as a family we will not only enjoy and be refreshed, but also stand in awe of God's presence among us as He refreshes others through us.
God sets the lonely into families. In Christ, we are adopted, not into an 'organization,' but as sons and daughters, as brothers and sisters of Jesus. Embracing healthy local church family includes learning a lifestyle that prioritizes fellowship together, loving one another, one another's success, and enjoying real life together. The early church grasped something wonderful about practicing our faith as a family, not only in more formal gatherings, but also throughout the week. They became living evidence to the world around them of God's amazing love. Imagine what God will do today in a church family who embraces one another like this!
When Jesus is preparing for the cross, the resurrection, and then to ascend to His Father's side He tells the disciples that it will be for their advantage for him to go away. This must seem very hard to understand for them, and still is for many today! He commissions them to take the gospel to the ends of the earth, and then says... "Wait!" The Holy Spirit is coming, and this - He - is the big advantage. They will receive power to be effective witnesses, enabled to communicate to their own culture and to the cultures of the world through the life-giving, refreshing, infilling of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit is both a Spirit of mission and fresh, living water for our own thirsty souls! Every follower of Jesus is meant to come to Him and drink deeply of the Holy Spirit, finding relational effectiveness for powerful ministry. In Part 6 of our Core series, we explore these foundational truths, including the New Testament pattern of people receiving the Spirit.
On the day of Pentecost, when thousands of people believe the message of the gospel, immediately Peter and the other apostles encourage baptism in water as part of their immediate response. What is it about water baptism that is so important, and what does it mean to be immersed into the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? And how long should a new follower of Jesus wait to be baptized? Acts 2, Matthew 28, and Romans 6 help answer these questions and more regarding this Core Value of being baptized in water.
As Christians, it's vital that we understand this truth: our relationship with God is not based on our works, but in the finished work of Christ. Through faith in Jesus and what He has accomplished on our behalf, His righteousness becomes our righteousness. God chose freely before we were ever born to send His son to do this for us. God Himself chose to give us this life-transforming gift of grace! As we continually embrace Him, our lives will become more and more a reflection of His amazing grace.
When Jesus taught the disciples what we often refer to as 'The Lord's Prayer' He wasn't just giving them lines to recite but a relational strategy for life-giving prayer. Prayer is an effective, powerful practice, and it's important for every disciple of Jesus to learn the disciplines that foster sustainable, effective prayer. Like the early church we discover in the Book of Acts - a people regularly under pressure, persecution, and various pressures of life - we can become a praying people that sees God move in our day!
Over the course of history many have dedicated their lives and even sacrificed their lives to translate and produce copies of the Bible so that people can access the Scriptures for themselves. What is it about this book that has caused people to give their lives to make it's words available to others? Within the Bible we have God's instruction about Himself, about us, and about how we are to live our lives. Psalm 119 describes it as "a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." This is why "we purpose to learn, to instruct, and to submit ourselves to the teachings of the Bible as our first and final authority."
God instructs and enables us as His people to be fruitful and multiply. And if growth means anything, it means... change! And transformative change is built right into the Big Vision and blessing of God. He brings people from all walks of life together through Christ for a new purpose. The people of God are gathered to shape, change, and bless neighborhoods, cities, and even entire nations. According to God's good plan, His church is helping others become all that God has designed them to be.
God is pleased to share His joy with us! When Jesus is born into the world, there is much purpose behind such joyful news, and Jesus Himself will later announce the "Why" behind His coming. The birth of Jesus is the birth of the long-awaited Messiah, and we have reason to join the celebration!
Real love is costly, isn't it! God's love for us, the kind of love that gives and invests, is being revealed in Matthew's account of the Christmas story. When Joseph finds out Mary is pregnant, his plan is to divorce her. God changes his plan with the kind of love that changes the world! What kind of love is this? A merciful love; a love that communicates and includes; a love that protects and invests; the kind of love that is present and with us always. As it is in Mary and Joseph's complicated life situation, God's love is still all of these things for us today.
Did Jesus come to bring peace? Absolutely, but not in the way that the people of His time were expecting. Jesus brings a peace that includes reconciliation, forgiveness, compassion, mercy, and favor. As He brings salvation to us in these ways, He also challenges us to partner with Him, extending them to others as well. Christ came to serve and die for "us," and also for "them." Through Christ, we are made one, an amazing gift so desperately needed in our world!
The prophecies of the coming Messiah were well-known to the Jewish people, stirring hope in hearts living in captivity. Yet, when the angel Gabriel first bings news of practical, tangible hope that sets up the coming of the Messiah, Zechariah is not quite ready to believe it. Six months later, Gabriel brings word to Mary that the long-hoped-for Messiah is going to come through her, and she responds differently. Hope is coming, and hope has a name: Jesus. The Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, Son of David, and Son of the Most High God - these are being fully revealed in Jesus Christ, who brings us a forever hope!
Even with the living water of God, drought still comes here on this earth. Famine and floods still bring hard times. But when these times come that is the time to stay near the river of God. He has blessing for those who root themselves into His faithfulness and depend on the life that comes from Him. The life that He brings will not fade or wither.
The story of Boaz and Ruth is a bit of a Hallmark love story, isn't it! Yet, right at the end we get the reference to Judah and Tamar, a story of a whole different kind: deceit, manipulation, and sexual immorality. Both of these ancestors of Boaz's family brought a level of "crazy" into the family tree, and yet this is the family of tree of none other than King David... and King Jesus! Our own family history - or present! - is no barrier to the blessing and redemption that God is able to bring. Like Judah and Tamar, we too can be forgiven and our stories redeemed.
Everywhere the River of God flows, even through desert regions and the farthest reaches of places long dead, there will be new life! Jesus Himself gives this living water that brings His life to the world. The Gospels of Luke and John both tell stories of Jesus directing fishermen to cast their nets into the water. Though these fishermen had been unsuccessful after much labor, after following Jesus' instruction their nets were full to overflowing. Where Jesus is, He brings life! When that life draws its nourishment from Him, it continues to flourish and does not fade. Our lives can be like this!
Life can flourish close to the river, so throughout history, settlements and major cities have tended to establish along rivers or estuaries. In Ezekiel 47, we see the river of God flowing from His presence out into the world. What begins as a trickle builds momentum, depth, and width: from ankle deep to knee deep, then continues to grow, from waist-high to "deep enough to swim in", and we are swept up in His purpose. Every step of the way is an invitation to us to follow along, test out, and wade into the river of God's presence and purpose in the earth. And everywhere that river goes, life can flourish!
God is more than faithful as we step out in faith into what He is calling us to do. In Proverbs 24:27 that step of faith is into the field; for Nehemiah that step begins in prayer, then leads to a conversation with the king, and leads him all the way to from Babylon to Jerusalem. We may feel like the commission is too big, but as we prepare the field where God is sending us, He will also bless the work. This is true across the world and locally. Cameron Oliver encourages us in these things as he and his family prepare for the their faith-filled move back to South Africa to plant City Light Church in Capetown!
Like so many before and after her, Ruth had experienced relational pain. Her first husband had died, and they had not had children. In rescuing and redeeming her, God brought not only a husband, but broke the barrenness over her life as well. She was able to have a child! God brings fruitfulness and new life to us today as well, breaking barrenness through Jesus our Redeemer. Wonderfully, the way Jesus redeems us leads to the reconciling of peoples, blessing of nations, and the release of God's promise into new generations. Like Ruth, Boaz, and Naomi, our stories are joined with God's Big Story to bring redemption to the most far-reaching fields we could imagine.
Boaz and Ruth want to marry each other, but Boaz has to make sure this is legally worked out with a different marriage prospect for Ruth! He picks the right time, and we too can know that God is choosing the right timing as He works on our behalf. Boaz takes full responsibility for handling this correctly. Is there going to be a cost? Yes! But there are also great benefits. This is true for us too. There are costs for us in following Jesus, but the benefits of redemption far outweigh those costs! Jesus wants relationship with us, He considers us worth redeeming, and He won't rest in His pursuit of His people! (Apologies for the mystery pulsing sound in the background of this week's recording!)
Ruth pursues Boaz and he pursues her, with much blessing and dignity. What a reflection Boaz is of Jesus' heart for the people of God, both in the way He pursues us and in the way He blesses, welcomes, and desires our pursuit of Him! The way He guards and shepherds our lives as we pursue Him in faith will stir confidence that He will do everything in His power to redeem us completely.
Something happens when we awaken to the kindness and provision of God. Naomi recognizes Boaz's favor on Ruth and her heart that had been so stuck in grief now begins to make plans for a hopeful future. Ruth trusts Naomi's plan and takes bold initiative of her own as well. God is calling us as His people to pursue Him, not passively, but with great faith and daring! Because Jesus is so committed to us, we can take great hope in Him as we plan to love, serve, and pursue Him and His kingdom purpose.
We are redeemed, and God has not forgotten us! Boaz's extreme generosity toward Ruth caused Naomi to take notice, and she realizes that Ruth has met one of their family redeemers. God has led Ruth right into His blessing, care, and provision. As Ruth discovers that Boaz is a kinsman redeemer for her, so too the Scriptures reveal Jesus as the Redeemer for all of us who will believe in Him. His blessing is oh-so-much more than monetary and not at all limited to our physical provision, though He cares about those things too; God also provides a deep spiritual provision for the soul. As the story continues, Ruth stays under the protection of Boaz according to his instruction, resulting in continued grace and favor for her and Naomi. When we stay near to God's people, working in His fields regularly, we can expect Him to bring a regular harvest in our lives that will bless not only us, but those around us too.
Such generosity! Boaz shows Ruth great favor that baffles her. After all, they've just met; why would he do this for a foreign woman? Boaz had heard of the sacrifices Ruth made to follow God and acted graciously toward her, setting her up for success she never could have found or accomplished on her own. Like Ruth, we, once foreigners to the kingdom of God, have been shown great favor in Christ! And then He recognizes the sacrifices we make in serving Him and one another, rewarding us beyond anything we deserve in His generous grace. Never underestimate the generous grace of God extended to us in Christ, or the power of our generosity toward others to point them to our gracious Savior!
As Ruth's story continues, she's now in Bethlehem with her mother-in-law, and not knowing anyone in a foreign land she begins to look for favor. She meets Boaz and finds great favor with him, including protection, guidance in the community, and provision. As the church we need these things as well. We need the favor of God, and our God is seeking a people He knows are in need. Like Boaz's favor toward Ruth, God's favor and provision for us are much bigger than just enough crumbs to get by. His favor is a bountiful feast and it's ready for us in the home he has prepared.
Have you ever felt like the worst evangelist ever? One of the amazing things about the story of Naomi and Ruth is how God kept drawing Ruth even as Naomi kept giving her all the reasons to turn back. God can overcome our weakness too, and use our imperfect efforts to draw people into His purpose for their life. Calloused hearts? He can soften them. Great resistance? He can overcome it. Great trauma? God can transcend it. And when we feel like we've come to the end of ourselves? God is just getting started!
As the beautiful story of Ruth begins, the scene is anything but beautiful. In Bethlehem, the House of Bread, there's a famine. In their desperation, a family of four leaves the land and fields of God's Promise to go into the fields Moab. The Moabite people were considered cursed by God, but the sons of this family marry Moabite women. After tragedy and trauma, only the women are still living, but God's bigger plan begins to unfold. God's drawing pursuit of both Naomi and Ruth reflects His pursuit today of those who have walked away from His promise and those who have never known God and His ways. People who have left the church due to and people who have never been a part of God's family can hear the wonderful good news: there is bread in God's house again and it's time to come home! Someone told Naomi that good news, and we have the privilege of spreading the news still today.
Do you know the purpose of prophecy in the New Covenant? Does your church family cultivate a genuinely prophetic atmosphere that also builds away from manipulation? What should we do with prophetic words that may seem unclear or maybe a bit "off?" As a New Testament prophetic people of the Spirit of God, it's vital that we understand how to weigh and test prophecy. In this message, Jon Meek reminds us of several practical ways to receive prophetic words and evaluate them according to Scripture and the testimony of Jesus.
"Everyone here sends their warm embrace to everyone there. Be sure to extend your warm embrace to one another in Christ." Paul's final words to his much loved friends in Philippi reflect the family relationship that the church is meant to enjoy. God's gracious embrace of us empowers us to extend grace to one another, in our own local church and to the family that is spreading across the nations! God's grace is truly on our family, on our going, and on our unity. What a fitting finale for Paul's letter to the church in Philippi!
When we develop a culture of grace, the gospel will shape our generosity. Giving has the opportunity to become an expression of our genuine fellowship and partnership with one another, leading us to take responsibility beyond ourselves. And more than mere obligation, giving also becomes an expression of our worship; God receives it as a beautiful aroma, a pleasing sacrifice to Him. As we learn that our Father really does care for us too, giving becomes an expression of our faith in Him. Like the Philippian church, we can discover a gospel-centered approach to giving, knowing Jesus is our supply.
Paul was very grateful for his friends in the church in Philippi. He rejoiced in the Lord for their pattern of support for him, and for what it revealed about their hearts. Though Paul was in prison, he had learned how to stay satisfied and fulfilled, even if his friends hadn't been able to help him. Contentment is learned, and we mature in this God-honoring part of our own discipleship. Whether we have much or little, we are able to do all the things that God has commissioned us to do, not through ourselves but through the strength that comes through Jesus Christ.
It's easy to say, "Be anxious for nothing," but not being finding true peace is going to take some intentional focus. The good news is that God promises to help us walk in peace when we put our faith in Him. How? First, it's important that we get the frame - the Big Picture - right. In the Big Picture, our future and our present is secure in Christ. Secondly, learning how to focus: to proactively take delight in God, and to dwell on the right things. Finally, as we learn to follow the example of others who are applying the first two, the promise is this: "...and the God of peace will be with you."
At the beginning of Philippians 4 Paul speaks into a relational or leadership issue between two women. He points out that they are on the same side and need to work together in the same direction. Sometimes our own interpersonal issues or ideas of how to advance God's mission can inadvertently cause division in the church, sometimes significant enough that it takes help from other leaders to bring reconciliation. The good news is that Jesus is our perfect example of unity and leadership! When we submit our lives to Him, He can help bring a unity in the church that paints a beautiful picture of what God intends human relationships to be.
We are not spiritual settlers who stay put, satisfied with where we are, because we have not yet 'arrived' in our faith. We press on toward our calling in Jesus, learning to live out the Citizenship we have in His kingdom. Paul encourages the church in Philippi to keep their eyes towards what is ahead rather than the sinful past - or even past success - which is behind them. Like the church in Philippi, we too are following Jesus and His perfect example all the days of our lives!
Like people everywhere, we can get caught up worrying about our pedigree, status or qualifications. We may try to justify ourselves through all kinds of endeavors or consider ourselves righteous based on the good we've done. In Philippians 3 Paul points out that if anyone could be considered righteous through their works it would be him - what a bold statement! -, but that even he falls far short of Jesus' righteousness. Our righteousness comes only through Jesus; it is from Him and Him alone. We cannot depend on our own goodness to justify us but instead we can joyfully depend on the goodness and righteousness of Christ.
Even strong church communities will face challenges to their faith, so are there safeguards we can build into our faith to help us stand firm? Paul brings this up at the beginning of Philippians 3, and we address three safeguards in the first three verses. The first is joy, a hallmark of the Christian faith. The second safeguard is being aware of legalism and its hallmarks that are so contrary to the freedom we have in Christ Jesus. The third is an awareness of who we actually are in Christ, finding our justification in Him rather than in 'the flesh.' These three safeguards work together to help us remain confident in Christ Himself, living out the Good News.
The New Testament talks a lot about churches, and the way he describes the church is wonderfully compelling. A healthy church is becoming more and more a diverse family joined together in apostolic partnership, giving themselves to the Lord. "Church" is not just a cold organization, but is made up of real people, people like Timothy and Epaphroditus. As a sent people, the church is commissioned to spread the news of Christ to all peoples of the world, including right where we live.
God's heart for the Church is not that we would just stay in one place. The God who created us also created us for mission. He wants us to be built up as sons and daughters in a family and then sent out, carrying the clear mission of Christ. It takes faith to be sent, and it means learning to make our home in Christ, trusting Him. It will be costly, and it will mean getting out of our comfort zones. This is true, whether we are called to the nations 'out there' or called to the nations right here in our own city or town.
How can we identify genuine prophetic ministry in the church today? Are there hallmarks in Scripture to help us evaluate this? Absolutely. Rather than leaving the church fearful and uncertain, New Testament prophetic ministry expresses the love of Christ for His people, moves us forward in faith, and builds up the whole church, encouraging, and restoring hope. Do we need prophecy in the church today? Yes, we do. Sam Poe reminds us of this essential and life-giving role of prophecy in the local church today.
No matter who you are, no matter where you are, God wants to build a sure foundation into your life. What kind of foundation is this? Whatever other distinctives we have, there are four key things that every local church is meant to build well: the foundation of grace, of family, of life in the Holy Spirit, and of mission.
Are we called to mature in Christ? Absolutely. Are we called to do it in our own strength and ability? No. God Himself is at work in us both to will and to work in us, helping us to outwork His purpose in the earth. We are a people who shine like stars, and God is committed to helping us shine brightly and effectively. Together, we can rejoice in the ways He is maturing each of us; we can celebrate one another's sacrifice, service, and faith exploits. All of life, even our hardship, is an opportunity to shine.
Who is this Jesus that we worship? Is He so full of His own reputation that He's hard to be around? Is He always focused only on His own advancement? Paul's description of the attitude of Jesus reflects something different altogether. Embracing humility, even unto death. And not just any death, but death on a cross. Because Jesus was secure in the Father, He didn't need to grasp for authority, and neither do we. We don't have to compete with one another, and that wouldn't reflect Jesus at all. We can have the same humble attitude that Jesus did, serving our Father and one another with complete trust that the Father will take excellent care of us. And then one day, we will ultimately join with our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ together, across the globe and across generations, bowing our knees and exalting Jesus. His name is the name above every other name!
After Jesus rises from the dead, He reveals himself to many of His disciples. For whatever reason, Thomas is not present for these first encounters, and for a full week he is hearing the claims of Jesus' resurrection, but does not believe. Thankfully, Jesus includes skeptics like Thomas! He invites Thomas to look and to touch and to believe. Jesus is still helping and influencing our faith today, coming to us and revealing Himself in various ways. He often reveals himself through His Spirit working through others. He also reveals Himself through the Holy Spirit-inspired story of Scripture. Just as Jesus came intentionally to help a disciple like Thomas to believe, He also knows just how to reveal Himself to us.
In Philippians 2 Paul makes the statement, "If there is any encouragement in Christ, consolation of love, fellowship with the Spirit, or affection and mercy then make my joy complete by being like minded, having the same love, being one in Spirit and one mind." The great thing about this is these things are true! In Christ we really do have everything we need, and this frees us to focus on others rather than ourselves.
Who are we? Are we living out of our true identity as citizens of heaven? Embracing that identity together helps us to reflect Christ and His kingdom as we take on the challenges of life. Together we can courageously stand firm in one spirit, united in the gospel, and contending for the good news of Jesus Christ. In Him, our lives become a far-reaching testimony to those around us through both faith and suffering. Our stories will strengthen the faith of others in the same way that the stories of Jesus, Paul, and others strengthen us.
The news of Christ truly is the best news in the world! It's something to get excited about. The gospel frees us and leads our hearts towards honoring Christ, into fruitful living, and stirs eagerness to know Him more. From this flows more eagerness to move forward together in Christ, trusting our good and sovereign God. There is so much to be joyful about in Him!
Difficult things happen: in Genesis we see Joseph being sold into slavery, and in Philippians Paul is writing as a prisoner for the gospel. In God's great plan, their hard circumstances served great purpose in furthering His salvation plan. Paul says in his letter, "I want you to know..." He wants us to know that the gospel is being advanced, and that we are partners in His great purpose. The more we understand this, the more we can rejoice and celebrate what God is going to accomplish.
Partnership is a beautiful thing! The partnership between Paul and the church in Philippi was a healthy one. Good partnership looks like generous care that fuels praise and thanksgiving. Genuine partnership in the Gospel will also fuel joy and devotion, and we'll find ourselves taking joy in one another as Jesus takes joy in His people. Finally, the growing love for one another that we find in healthy partnership fuels grace-filled fruitfulness in our lives. How can we cultivate this partnership? It begins with learning to give thanks.
Paul and Timothy are both apostolic men, but how does Paul address the church in Philippi? As a servant of Christ. The Philippians too will find their primary identity in Christ. All their other characteristics and titles in the world would flavor their distinct expressions of humanity, but Christ is the foundation. As the people of God, first and foremost, our identity is in Christ, rooted in the grace and peace of God. Together then, we can become one holy people, free to serve Jesus and one another.
In Acts 16 we find Paul trying to travel to the region of Bithynia but the Spirit of Jesus tells him no. Paul listens to the Spirit and is led instead to the Macedonian city of Philippi, where what we know as the Philippian church is founded. There he meets a woman named Lydia, and God opens her heart to the gospel. She is baptized and becomes an avenue of great blessing and hospitality to the church that begins meeting in her home. If we listen to God, He may change our plans, but His place and timing is perfect, and His work in us will be completed by Him. When God says yes, nothing can stop that! He wins.
In the final Chapter of Nehemiah, we find that though the people of Jerusalem may live in a different era and culture than us today, in some ways they're really not all that different from us. They can engage in a holy moment with God and then return to their old ways once the moment has passed. The too are tempted to neglect God and His ways. Just as the people of Jerusalem we too need a savior. The good news is that we have one! Jesus has done the work, "It is finished," and we are redeemed through Him, our greater Nehemiah. The culture Nehemiah worked so hard to establish, only Jesus is truly able to do, changing not just our outward culture and behaviors, but our hearts.
In Nehemiah 12 we find God's people planning a celebration together ofwhat God has accomplished. They are also creating a strategic community of worship on purpose. Intentionality in thanking and praising God included consecration that would set them up well for celebration. The extravagant, joyful, all-inclusive worship event was exciting - and took a lot of coordination - but this would be more than a one-time event. They were setting up a pattern of worship that could continue. While the event amplified their sound across the region, the stewardship they were planning would help shift the culture, not just make a lot of noise. The joy they found would become fuel for their stewardship, and our gratefulness in the gospel will fuel a culture of worship and stewardship in our day as well.
In Nehemiah 11 the leaders of God's people choose to stay in Jerusalem not because it was a nice city with clean neighborhoods or great amenities. It actually wasn't. They stayed because they believed in what God was building there, and their choice to stay was a choice to build. The rest of the people of God came together for a key shift that also needed to happen. A literal tithe of the people, 10 %, were chosen to relocate to the city, and others above and beyond that volunteered. Everyone had a role to play in building the Holy City. As the people of God today, there is a challenge for us to take up the call to partner in what God is building. It's not just leaders with official titles, not only a select few, but all of us. Let's take our place in building and becoming the City of God, the radiant church of Jesus Christ.
Building a culture that honors God and His Word takes time, but it's not an unrealistic, mysterious, or illusive dream. There are tangible shifts we can make in our lives, both individually and together as God's people, that help us align our real-life, day-to-day culture with God's word, character, and way of building. In Nehemiah 10, we see three specific shifts we are called to make as a people of faith: Giving faith precedence over our feelings, over our schedules and calendars, and over our finances. The declaration of God's people together, "We will not neglect the house of our God," is rightly heard as a challenge to us today, a call to renew our commitment to God's presence, God's people, and God's work through us.
Herod wants him dead, so Joseph and Mary must flee with Jesus to Egypt. After his birth and subsequent dedication at the temple in Jerusalem, the first story we hear of Jesus' early life is one of an outsider. God is working a wonderful plan that will lead Jesus back into Israel and into the town of Nazareth. God is still preserving people who are outside the "system," preparing them in places like "Egypt" and "Nazareth." Can anything good come out of a place like Nazareth? That's what one of Jesus' own disciples said later when he found out where Jesus was from. God is using places like Nazareth to welcome His plan and purpose.
The Christmas story - the real Christmas story - is anything but a quiet, sanitary event. It's full of sight, sound, raw emotions, and all the smells of a 1st Century sheep town. From shepherds working the night shift where all heaven is breaking loose in the fields, to the Lamb of God lying in a manger, heaven's glory is stepping into the very real grit and grime of humanity. God has never been afraid to enter into our mess to bring heaven to earth. Note: In this week's podcast, most of the Scriptures (Luke 1:26-38; 2:1-20; Matthew 1:18-25) were read prior to the message as a part of the Christmas Eve service at Destination Church.
John's gospel introduces Jesus as the one and only Son of God, the unique glory of the Father. He's not just a son of God being born into the world, but the Son, and there is none like Him. Full of grace and truth, He is the embodiment of the Father's character, and the truth of God's covenant faithfulness is revealed and fulfilled in Christ. Through Jesus, we are able to know God as He really is.
When Jesus took on human form it took a while for people to recognize Him as being God, and many never actually did. Today, it's as true as it was then that we need help recognizing and receiving God! Our fallen world still doesn't recognize it's maker, but it's only in recognizing and receiving Jesus that we become children of God. Since this has eternal implications, it's important that we know what it means to receive Jesus. It means to accept Jesus as who He truly is, to put our trust in Him, His character, and His promise. John writes in his gospel, "The word became flesh and dwelled among us." The powerful Creator of the universe was born into the world in vulnerability, interacting face to face with His creation, and giving astonishing dignity to humanity by becoming one of us. As we celebrate the incarnation of Jesus, we also recognize that those who believe are made one with Him, and can now be an extension of His love and care for our world, helping others recognize Jesus through His new creation at work in and through us.
In John's Gospel he doesn't start the story with Jesus' birth, but takes us back even farther: "In the beginning was the Word..." We are introduced to Jesus as this powerful Word, eons before His incarnation and even before creation itself. Before the beginning of time, Jesus was already there. He was with God, and, mysterious as it may seem, He also actually was God. In Jesus, the True Light of the world, is life, and darkness is dispelled before Him. Jesus, the very Word of creation, is even now releasing the "new creation" of His eternal life in and through us. Through Him, now we too are shining the light of His good news into our world.
"Confession is good for the soul," as they saying goes. In Nehemiah Chapter 9 we find all the Jewish people gathering together for a third time in the same month to pray and read scripture. Their gathering is marked by an openness toward God, this time with fasting rather than feasting, and grieving with one another over the sins of their people. They separate themselves from the worshipers of other gods, and worship their One True God with great honor and reverence, devoting significant time to confession, worship, prayer, and praise. Even now, in light of the New Covenant, investing significant time to confess, worship, pray, and praise the Lord our God together as His people is a healthy part of life together in Christ. The prayers in the second half of this recording give just a taste of how we can apply these disciplines today in our own church community.
We all are influencing someone, whether we realize it or not. As followers of Jesus, if we embrace this influence rather than run from it, then those who are looking to us will benefit. Wise influencers and leaders will also embrace being learners of God's Word. His Word breaks us out of our "normal" routines to refocus us on Christ, His provision, and His protection as we follow Him. In Nehemiah 8:13-18 we discover these truths in the context of the Festival of Shelters (Feast of Tabernacles), with much implication for us as an ends-of-the-earth, mobile people
God's culture is all about family, and of gathering that family together. The unity of the gathered church presents a beautiful image to the rest of the world. When the church gathers, we celebrate and enjoy one another, and we also intentionally gather to God's word, with time set aside to hear and understand what God is calling us to be and to do together. Ezra and Nehemiah gathered God's people on the Day of Atonement, and they realigned themselves to God's word. Like the Jewish people on that day, when we are reminded together of God's word and God's purpose, both genuine repentance and deep joy strengthen our hearts. Tears and celebration may both be appropriate, and there is room for both! Ultimately, we can be a rejoicing people as we understand God's word to us through Christ!
God's culture provides protection around God's people, over God's people, and among God's people. In Nehemiah 7 we discover that there are guards placed around the wall of the city, at the gates to defend from outside attack, and even people assigned to stand guard at their own homes. Who do we have guarding our own homes today? Who within the church is looking out for us and our best interests, and who are we looking out for? God's culture accounts for every one of His people. No one is overlooked, and no one need fall through the cracks. We were never called to be merely casual friends of the family, but well-rooted, full participants together. This is God's heart for His church.
How can we respond well when the devil tries to distract, intimidate, and cause us to lose our moral authority through private sin? In Nehemiah 6, we learn from this man of influence how to respond well to these three enemy tactics. God has commissioned us to a great work, and what God has commissioned, God will complete. With our eyes on Jesus, we can keep our hands engaged in the great work of God, and keep our focus on the finish that lies ahead.
As the story of Nehemiah continues, a matter of heart-wrenching social injustice surfaces during the massive building project. Many of the poor in Jerusalem and the surrounding area are struggling in a season of famine. To put food on the table, some of them have gone deeply in debt, even resorting to selling their own children into slavery. Others are all to happy to seize the advantage at the desperate expense of the poor. Nehemiah, representing the generous and compassionate justice of God, instructs that unjust debts be canceled, leads the way in righteous lending, and blesses the poor generously at his own expense. We see in Nehemiah a beautiful and powerful example of God's grace leading us beyond mere forgiveness of debts and into deeply sacrificial blessing. God's heart for us and for those around us is the same today as it was then: costly forgiveness, compassionate grace, and radical generosity.
Whatever happens, we must remember one thing: Don't stop building. There will be opposition; it may look like rage, like mocking, or even more organized threats. We may have to slow down, adjust strategies, and take extra precautions to guard what God has commissioned us to do. As we build, we pray. As we adjust, we pray. As we shore up our weak areas, we pray. As we respond to confusion, we pray to the God of truth and wisdom. Don't be surprised when fatigue comes, but... don't... stop... building. Encourage one another, and focus on the God who fights for His people.
In Nehemiah 3 we find so many groups of people coming together to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. They build multiple gates and towers, and many lengths of wall. Each part of the project matters, each person matters, and each contribution matters! It takes teams, families, intentionality, and inclusivity to build wisely according to what God is building. Our willingness to work together in our common mission together will even enable our individual gifts to thrive. We are all significant and a part of God's good work.
We have a call to build, even though the work ahead will bring challenges. When God fills our hearts with His mission we can look on current devastation and be full of faith. When God is the one who has called us to build we can confidently stand up and take action! Rather than being stuck in passivity we can strengthen our hands for the great work ahead. God is the one who will prosper His purpose in His people, He provokes a prophetic response in us, and He protect the portion of His people. Through Christ we can shake off what hinders us, get up, and build together.
God opens doors at the right time. As we start Chapter 2 of Nehemiah, he has been praying for four months. What has he been praying for? - that he would be able to go back to Jerusalem to rebuild his home. When the king Nehemiah is serving asks him what is troubling him, Nehemiah is afraid but answers truthfully. The door to return is opening, and the king swings it wide open by not only giving Nehemiah permission to go home, but also supplying the mission! Like Nehemiah, God is with us when we step out in obedient faith! As we pray, we are also wise to plan and prepare, so that when God opens the door we are ready to walk through it. Never underestimate the power of God's grace in our lives as we pray, plan, prepare, and act in faith.
What do you do when you hear bad news? What about when you hear of a need that's too big for you to fix, or you have a giant-sized dream that seems impossible? When these things happen it could just be that God is about to move your heart! When He does move our hearts we are wise to remind ourselves of exactly who this God is who is moving us. God hears us, works powerfully in our own hearts, and invites us to remind Him of His promises as we call on Him in prayer. When God moves our hearts it's even okay to get specific in our requests! God loves hearing from His people, and He loves hearing from you.
Is it really true that in the church male and female both get to participate fully and freely? What about when it comes to teaching in the church? Is that role reserved only for men, or can women participate in this ministry as well? If it's true that both male and female are created as image-bearers of God, and both carry the same good news of Jesus Christ, then it's very important that we factor in the whole counsel of God as we answer these questions together. This week's teaching surveys multiple scriptures, taking us through Creation, the Fall, the Law, Jesus, Acts, and the ministry of Paul and the 1st Century church.
Fresh vision for the future of the kingdom of God and for the exaltation of Jesus Christ is the birthright of every Christian, from the newest and youngest to the oldest and most silver-haired! "But I feel so young." "But I'm far too old to be of much use." In the kingdom of God, old and young are fully included, and receive the same Holy Spirit. From Paul's challenge to Timothy not to be sidelined because of his youth (1 Timothy 4:12-15), to God's challenge to the prophet Ezekiel to prophesy life into the dry bones of his people (Ezekiel 37:1-6), the story of the people of God is one of every age category being included. Keep dreaming!
While we may tend to disqualify ourselves or those around us, Jesus is the ultimate qualifier. He pours out His Spirit even on those our culture may consider the "least," takes our "not-enough," and makes it more than enough! While it's true that we could never merit enough on our own to partner with God in His plans, Jesus qualifies rich and poor, high and low, and uses all who will serve Him to bless the world around us.
If we really want to see positive culture change, there are a few things we need to know, things we see at the end of the book of Ezra. Culture shift will require follow-through on the decisions agreed upon in the moment, and God is fully committed to supporting the changes He asks us to make. Culture shift also requires fathering, people of influence taking responsibility together to facilitate the shift. Since culture shift is a process, not just an event, influencers who can help walk out this process with us are vital! Finally, we need to know that God-honoring culture shift will face opposition. People will see things differently, and discussion will be needed. We then must follow Jesus forward together, building according to God's Word.
Ezra has come to teach God's people God's ways, to help them align their lives to the heart and word of God. When he discovers that they are straying so badly into sin, he is understandably devastated. He becomes an example to them though, of how to repent, and they way he identifies with them in their sin points us all to Jesus, the one who ultimately has taken our sin upon Himself. These keys help us address sin in our own lives as well, reminding us that there is hope after sin! Take a knee. Take responsibility. Then take action. God gives us all the grace we need to turn our minds, hearts, and actions back toward Him in beautiful repentance.
Is God a racist? If He's not, then why would He oppose the interracial marriage we find in Ezra Chapter 9? Why would Ezra react so strongly when he discovers that His people are marrying outside of the people of Israel? It's true that one of the biggest decisions of life is who to spend it with in marriage, so what does God ask of us in making this important choice? It's actually not about color of their skin, their DNA, or their family history; its about the heart. Apart from Jesus, every one of us finds our heart swamped with sin of various kinds, but the same God who extends grace to the Jewish people in Ezra's time extends heart-transforming grace to us today. The gospel is good news for our sexuality and good news for our marriages!
When Ezra arrives on the scene in Jerusalem after a long and dangerous journey, he and the many who came with him took three days to rest. Before delivering the money and resource they were carrying to the temple, before sacrificing, before diving in to their important work, they rested. Rest was a very important priority in Jesus' life and ministry as well, not only to recharge but also to hear freshly from His father. We too are learning to rest in God's presence, provision, and goodness.
Speaking words of great faith is often much easier than taking the actual steps of great faith! Believing in general terms that God guards His people and helps us in what He has commissioned us to do is right and good. Walking forward into seemingly dangerous, faith-testing adventures can still humble the most confident of hearts. When Ezra is preparing to return to Jerusalem, he makes bold statements about God to the king, to the degree that he is now ashamed to then ask for an armed escort as he transports significant financial resources. The road ahead will be dangerous; what an opportunity to seek God!
It's been said, "We have no control over our ancestors, but we do have influence for our descendants." With that in mind, what kind of legacy would you like to leave for those who follow in your footsteps? In Ezra 8:1-20 we find Ezra recruiting Levites to return to Jerusalem, Levites whose ancestors had served the house of God, and now it's their turn. Ezra's own heart had been stirred by God, and now he is stirring up the hearts of others. What longings and stirrings is God stirring in our hearts today? The longing to know God as Father? The longing to be known by our Father God, and to know His delight over us? The longing for significance? Just as God knew the names of each and every returning exile, God knows us too, inside and out, and as we follow His ways, He's the one who is helping to shape the legacy we will leave.
God's heart for us as His people is revealed through the King of Persia in Ezra 7:11-28 as God moves the King to show great favor. God's sovereign will and purpose inspires a king, who releases a people. May we too learn to think like favored ambassadors and favored sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father! As we imitate our Father we too become releasers of great blessing, provision, direction, justice, courage, and strength.
God's plan is so much bigger than us! While we've been building, God has been preparing others in other places. He knows just the right time to join our stories together, insiders and outsiders merging to write new chapters together. Different gifts are all coming to reinforce and participate together. God knows how to weave our stories together, and has been preparing help for all of us so that we become mature disciples of Jesus together.
God's people had waited many years for the work on the temple to finally be completed. Now that it is finished they celebrate, joyfully dedicating the temple and then by remembering the Passover. They rejoiced because they could now freshly experience a measure of God's presence. The same God who had commissioned them to build the temple, who rescued them from captivity, and who wanted to be present in their lives then is even more fully available to us today. What great reason we have for joy and celebration in our own lives, not only in our victories but also in our waiting.
In Ezra Chapter 5 we find God's people building the temple diligently and successfully. They are using new materials, yet still building on the same foundation as the first temple in Jerusalem, so what they are building is new and also not new. As they build with God at the center, they may still face opposition, but we see God turning the tide on behalf of His people. Yes, opposition will rise up against what God is building but the God who causes the tides of history to change can bring great favor, even from the opposition. God knows how to provide, how to bless, and how to follow through on His promises!
What happens when God's prophetic commission on our lives sits dormant? Sometimes, for various reasons, we can become stuck, stalled, or distracted. In times like this God is faithful to send a fresh reminder, a prophetic voice to call us back to His purpose in our lives. God's prophetic gifts to the church reinforce His purpose and remind us of the bigger picture. It is truly important for us to receive from these trusted gifts within our own church and people who we actually know. God protective eye is always on the faithful obedience of His people, and He will lead us into great trust, enabling us to adjust our lives to His prophetic purpose.
When we set out to build what God has commissioned we will face increased temptation and opposition. In Ezra 4 we are given insight into multiple enemy tactics so that we can be aware and better prepared. Attempts to dilute and infiltrate our work should not be shocking to us, temptations to compromise on core-level issues, to appease an ungodly culture, with the goal of allowing that culture to affect our worship and how we build. He'll also try to discourage us from building at all, even accusing and attacking our character, trying to convince us we have been disqualified from doing God's work. However, the deceptive work of our enemy cannot ultimately prevail over God's plan and purpose. Our history is not what defines us; God does that, superseding both our sin and our history. God is with us, and His hand of strength and favor is with us, so we can face any setbacks, delays, and opposition with the strength He provides!
When God is building something new, it is often both exciting and challenging for those involved. Those who remember "the good old days" may even experience real grief in comparing the small beginnings now with the glories of yesterday. God is masterful at building us into community, where there is room for all of our very real emotions. Even while the work God has assigned us remains before us, we can praise Him in the journey because He is truly faithful. We are rallying together, remembering what God has done, and celebrating what He is doing now with us.
In Ezra 3 the Jewish people have come home with a prophetic commission. After settling into their homes, they are now gathered as one to Jerusalem to celebrate the Festival of Shelters, and to build the altar of sacrifice. Here they will consecrate themselves as they remember God's rescue and God's blessing. Today God calls us to partner with Him and build as one people, a people who celebrate the one final sacrifice, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We remember that it is He who builds His church, and we who have the privilege of partnering in agreement with His will for it and for us. We too are a rescued and blessed people, offering our lives as grateful, living sacrifices.
We as the people of God are a culturally diverse people joined together in common purpose despite our differences. In Ezra 2 many peoples are gathering together from different families, backgrounds, towns of origin, roles, social status, and amounts of wealth. No matter who we are and what our roles may be, our lineage is secure in in Jesus. From that position of security we are enabled to freely give what has been entrusted to us, wholeheartedly and sacrificially, prioritizing our lives together according to His word.
Have you ever had your heart moved? Have you had a passion, a dream, or a vision for the future? The Spirit of God works in our hearts and stirs up these things. Before we were even born God had a plan and a calling for us, and He still does. Through good and bad, nations rising and falling, and everything in between, God is working out His goodness and mercy for His people. God is drawing us together, and is working through us to build His house. We are called, not just to gather, but to gather to God's presence and purpose, to respond to His sovereign plan.
Every time we receive the bread and cup of communion together, we are brought right into God's Big Story. We remember and proclaim the sacrifice of Jesus that covers our shame, takes our place of judgment, seals us into his New Covenant of grace, unites us as one people, and promises us eternal life in Christ. Paul really wants the Corinthian church to understand the importance of relational unity and togetherness we experience through communion. It's not so much about 'me and Jesus' as it is about 'we and Jesus'! The way we welcome and esteem one another is a vital part of receiving communion; so is freshly surrendering to Jesus as we remember his sacrificial death that has made us free.
The resurrection of Jesus, Paul claims, is a strong foundation on which we can plant our feet and take our stand of faith. This good news is bringing salvation to us, and is worth holding onto! Since Jesus has been raised, we are freed from our sins; we will ourselves be resurrected to new life; and God gives us victory over both sin and death through Christ! What excellent news! It means that we can establish our lives in this wonderful truth, knowing our faith and our labor is not in vain.
Is Paul just being selfish in a passive-aggressive way in 1 Corinthians 9? Is he trying to demand his rights from a church that hasn't taken good care of him? No, instead he's teaching them about how to live, not just for their "rights" in the gospel, but as servants of Christ. If Paul could choose to make tents to earn a living rather than demand compensation for his preaching in Corinth, they too could learn how to live for the benefit of others. Still true today, we can mature as followers of Jesus, focusing more on the success of others than on our own rights. With this thinking, together we will see the gospel advance locally and globally. The best reward has always been Jesus Himself, and seeing lives genuinely transformed by Him!
It may seem like a shocking statement, but judgment within the church isn't actually our problem; the real problem is often the lack of it. We're not talking about a condemning, self-righteous judgment, but the wise and just judgment of the Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6 Paul emphasizes that we really need good and wise judges to resolve issues in the church, and he has some good advice on how we should go about this in a way that is merciful yet firm. God Himself has proclaimed His gracious judgment over the church, affirming that we have been washed, sanctified, justified, no longer sinners but saints. Whatever issues and conflict we face within the church we take on together from this place of security, partnered with God and His wise judgment.
It's good to be able to teach well and discuss complex topics that are in the Bible, but understanding God's Word and living life as Christians is not something we can do by ourselves. In 1 Corinthians Paul teaches that The Holy Spirit guides the Church and provides wisdom and courage that can only come from God. We as the body of Christ are called to be reliant on The Spirit in how we conduct our lives, in action and in speech.
How do we learn to build together when all of us are imperfect? How do we live out this idea we call "church," especially if we have found ourselves hurt, envious, or offended by another? Dealing with the very real emotions of rivalry and conflict are vital in becoming a healthy representation of Jesus to the world around us. One thing we know for sure is that we are not called to contentious competition, but to healthy collaboration and partnership together as believers. To see our different gifts grow and our different roles actively serving together requires that we be built together on the secure foundation of Jesus Christ as our foundation and core identity. This secure foundation enables us to celebrate the success of others and partner together like well-tuned instruments to see His name made great!
There are few things that communicate the gospel as clearly as unity among and between God's diverse people. Knowing and overcoming the barriers that tend to block our unity is therefore vital for our mission in the earth. In 1 Corinthians 1, we discover three of these unity barriers: denominational elitism and superiority, independence, and divisions over baptism being held as more important than the gospel itself. Paul reminds us all that while there are many differences across the Body of Christ, our core identity is to be found together as brothers and sisters in Christ Himself. The way we talk about one another, about other churches, and other church traditions is an opportunity to paint a glorious picture of Christ to the world around us!
It's no small thing to have Jesus interceding before the Father on our behalf. It's because of Jesus as our intercessor that we have immediate access to the Father any time, anywhere. This access gives makes us effective as an interceding people, petitioning God through prayer for non-believers to be saved and for believers to be encouraged and strengthened. And because we still often aren't sure what to pray for, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us too, guiding the direction of our prayer. As Christians, we get to pray from a position of family, security, and authority that is wholly submitted to God. We pray God's revealed will, knowing for certain that He is above and beyond anything we could ever ask for. So what should we pray for? Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3 gives us a glimpse into the height and depth of the love of God, and He wants us and those we pray for to be deeply rooted and grounded in that love. We know this for certain, and we can pray this with great confidence!
Both singleness and marriage are gifts from God. Paul considered it a gift from God to be able to live a Christ-centered, single and celibate life, and for those who are called to single lives God grants all the grace needed to walk that out. Both Jesus and Paul also recognized that many people are called to be married, and God also grants all the grace needed to be in a marriage. Christ-centered singleness and Christ-centered marriage are each a blessing to the church in their own unique ways, and each finds its ultimate fulfillment in meaningful relationship with the church family and with God.
In a world that values fast-paced media, but tends toward low personal engagement, we may tend to categorize some gifts of the Spirit as mere talents, skills, or personality traits. In great wisdom, however, the Holy Spirit gives skill and puts passion into our hearts for his purpose. When we harness those skills for God's kingdom work, we can rightly call them spiritual gifts. Some of these are craftsmanship, creative communication, and hospitality; all of these, when used for God's glory, greatly benefit the church and us fulfill God's call on our lives together!
Leadership matters. Words matter. Our gifts matter. The gifts God has given us are meant to be used, so if God has given a gift of leadership or encouragement He wants those gifts to be used for the good and growth of His kingdom. Jesus leads through example, being a protector, guardian, and aid to those He is leading. Through His kindness, comfort, and counsel, He also encourages many to take positive steps. "Come follow me," (Matthew 4:19) is an invitation to model Jesus' leadership and encouragement as we imitate Him in the way we serve one another and the world around us.
God has given his church many miraculous gifts of the spirit, all for the benefit of the church. God also gave very practical spiritual gifts that sometimes may be overlooked or underestimated, yet these "behind the scenes" gifts are extremely valuable! The gift of helping involves compassion, caring for hurting people, and taking care of the needs of the church. The gift of administration is crucial to getting things done, organizing anything from events, finances, teams of volunteers, pastoral care, or benevolence ministries for the church family. These practical gifts are ones that Jesus himself possessed and demonstrated in his own life. He is the Ultimate Helper and the Master Administrator, and we can follow him in ministering these gifts in and through the local church.
God always gives vision to his people. Sometimes there are clear breakthrough moments in time, where we receive fresh direction, and sometimes we continue walking steadily through long seasons of obedience, remembering what God has already said. 1 Samuel 22:2 has shaped the life and ministry of the Destination Church family, and our key vision for this year is a continuation of this. When we read that 400 men with problems gather to David, there is something strategic for us to see: they rally to a vision. They gather and are willing to be gathered. This word rally is key for us. God is rallying us together through Christ, together for our great city of Spokane, and together for the nations.
God has great plans, not only for a new year, but for all of eternity. With that in mind, it's good for us to think back to the good things God has already done in our lives in the past year, and to look ahead into how we can partner in what He is doing in the year ahead. It's important that any goal setting we have in mind is rooted in some strategic questions: "God, what are you doing?" "What do you want to teach me?" Listening for answers to questions like these will help us persevere, knowing that what God initiates will never be impossible for Him to accomplish.
More than 700 years before Jesus was born, the prophets Isaiah and Micah spoke of his birth. Isaiah's prophecy promised a child given as a gift to us, and that his name would be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, and Prince of Peace. This child would carry the full authority of God upon himself, and his reign will continue forever. Because of who Jesus is, this is really good news to everyone who will receive his kingship. Wisdom, strength, family inclusion, and all-encompassing peace are found in him!
Paul describes service and mercy as gifts given by God to the church. No less important than prophecy or healing, these grace-gifts are vital to a healthy church family. Hannah Easterbrooks and Michaela Meek teach on these two gifts in our Gifted series, not only describing these gifts, but also emphasizing how God has first served us and had compassion on us. With that important foundation, we can then serve and have mercy on others.
Tucked right in the middle of Paul's discussion on spiritual gifts is 1 Corinthians 13, which is all about love. Paul goes so far as to say we could actually be functioning in miraculous spiritual gifts and still completely miss the point, merely becoming like an annoying, clanging cymbal, unless those gifts are being expressed out of genuine love for one another. God gives us these gifts, yes, and He wants us to have the right heart in their use. Love is patient and kind. It doesn't envy, boast, or dishonor others. It's not selfish, not easily angered, and keeps no record of wrongs. It doesn't delight in evil but rejoices in truth. It always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. These are all qualities of God Himself, and He is equipping us to share these same qualities together. God's heart for us is that we love others in the same way that He has first loved us.
Can the way we tip in a restaurant testify to the generous heart of God? Yes, it can! Generosity, like all spiritual gifts, overflows from God's grace. His generous grace produces a graciously generous people who reflect His nature. As we continue to grow in this generosity toward others with our money, time, and resources, this often leads their hearts to praise. God's wonderful promise to us is that He will honor our generous giving, and enable us to continue representing Him and His nature.
Is the Holy Spirit a person? A presence? A power? The answer is, yes, all of these things and more. Denny Klaja brings a helpful foundational understanding of who the Holy Spirit is to us as the people of God, along with some wonderful instruction on receiving the baptism of the Spirit.
God has given evangelists and pastor-teachers as gifts to the church. An evangelist shares the good news about Jesus and the kingdom of God, equips others to share His story, and helps the church to become an evangelistic people. A teacher or pastor-teacher is a shepherd who looks after God's people, guiding, guarding, and instructing the people. Teachers help the church learn to instruct others in the faith as well. God has given all of us influence with someone and desires for us to use that influence to care for them and help them find their place in God's salvation story.
What are apostles and prophets? An apostle is "one who is sent as a delegate, an ambassador, a sent one". The capital "A" apostles were the ones who walked with Jesus, but there is still much need for apostolic gifting in the church today, laying healthy foundations and carrying the big-picture, kingdom culture of God. Apostles equip the church in being an apostolic people. Prophets help the church understand what God is saying to this group of people at this place and time, while being under the authority of the Bible. They are necessary in helping the church become a prophetic people, aware of God's presence and in step with His Word. God loves us enough to give guidance, direction, and correction to His people. Together, apostles and prophets equip the church to build well.
Every follower of Jesus has been baptized by one Spirit into one body, but that doesn't mean we're all identical. A healthy body has many parts, and every one of them is important. No one part can do everything, and no person can either; we need each other. For this reason, becoming prideful in our gifts is both silly and sinful! Instead, we are called to use our gifts to build up others. God has a place and a purpose for each and every member of the church! We are in this together, a beautifully and necessarily diverse body.
How can we tell when something is inspired by God, or when what is happening may be "off"? The gift of distinguishing between spirits has been defined as the supernatural ability to recognize what spirit (divine, human, or evil) is causing a particular activity. The Spirit of God will not deny, downplay or diminish Jesus in any way, and will help us distinguish between what "sounds" good and what is actually from God.
There is a reason Paul gives so much instruction and clarification regarding the complementary gifts of tongues and interpretation, and why he feels the need to remind the church: "Do not forbid speaking in tongues." Without healthy instruction these gift can seem very subjective or even overly-emotional, and God knows this. In 1 Corinthians 14:1-40 we are given some clear parameters and descriptions of what these gifts are and how to use them. Understanding how the gifts of tongues and interpretation work together to build up the church is of critical importance in welcoming and using them well in the local church.
The gift of prophecy is very simply speaking or relating what God is saying, whether that is future-oriented or present encouragement. Healthy prophetic ministry in the church is rooted in love for one another. We are all challenged in Scripture to eagerly and earnestly desire this gift with the intent to build up and encourage the church. In a healthy, accountable culture (both to one another and to God), we can learn to speak God's life-giving purpose into one another's lives.
In 1 Corinthians 12:9-10 we discover the next three gifts of the Spirit: faith, healing, and miracles. While every Christian is given a measure of faith, the spiritual gift of faith is an abundant measure of faith, often for a specific situation. It enables the believer to trust God for much greater things than he or she otherwise could. Gifts of healing are divine remedies given freely by the Spirit of God to restore physical, emotional, and/or mental health. Miracles are works of God's power that alter the ordinary course of nature. All three of these gifts are given by God for the common good of the church, because we need them, and for the purpose of building up the community of God's gathered people.
Words of wisdom and words of knowledge are two distinct gifts God gives by His Spirit. He gives these for various reasons, including: to protect His people and to expose the works of the enemy, to partner in healing and encouragement, and to prepare and embolden His people. This is all for the common good of the church. Even if these gifts bring conviction and correction, their focus is always meant for the help and building up of the recipient. Words of wisdom and words of knowledge are not to be abused to manipulate people, but to help reveal and advance God's purpose.
Words of wisdom and words of knowledge are two distinct gifts God gives by His Spirit. He gives these for various reasons, including: to protect His people and to expose the works of the enemy, to partner in healing and encouragement, and to prepare and embolden His people. This is all for the common good of the church. Even if these gifts bring conviction and correction, their focus is always meant for the help and building up of the recipient. Words of wisdom and words of knowledge are not to be abused to manipulate people, but to help reveal and advance God's purpose.
If anyone in the church should be disqualified, it's the Corinthian church! But that is not how Paul approaches their immaturity and misuse of spiritual gifts. By the grace given to them by God they do not lack in spiritual gifts. After all, a gift wouldn't be a gift if it could be earned. These gifts include wisdom, healing, prophecy, teaching, and many more. Paul affirms that each and every follower of Jesus is gifted by God to be a blessing for the common good of the church.
This Sunday we celebrate four years together as the Destination Church family! We believe God spoke very clearly to us about Hillyard, and placed us here on purpose with purpose. Our mission statement is, "Helping people become joyfully devoted ambassadors of Jesus Christ, in the power of the Holy Spirit, to the glory and delight of God our Father.' Just what does it mean for us to be ambassadors of Jesus in the city where we live?
Learning how to rest well is vital to healthy life! Thought the culture all around us may not instill this, Jesus claims that we really can know true rest, and that we can find it in Him. This God-ordained rest will lead to God-ordained blessing that supersedes anything we could have produced on our own. "Come to me," Jesus says. "Learn from me. I will give you rest."
The church was never intended to be domesticated. We are called to be a healthy people together on mission in the world around us. A healthy church family is learning to live: upward in powerful prayer for one another and for the world around us; outward as we partner in Christ's mission to "seek and save the lost"; and inward to one another, extending Christ to each other. In the final few verses of James' letter to the early church, we are challenged toward these traits as we discover their great benefits!
How would you describe a healthy church family? One that gets along? Meets every Sunday? Has small groups? In James 5:13-18 we discover several underlying traits that a heathy church family will value: to be gatherable, God-focused, Guided, God-powered, gracious, vulnerable, and exercising the power of prayer. A healthy church like this becomes an atmosphere of faith where expectancy for God to move is the norm. Has this been your experience? It can be!
When others know that our "yes" means "yes," and our "no" means "no," we are actually representing the trustworthiness of Christ to them. When our words and actions match up because of our integrity, there is no need for no additional oaths to make them so. When our word is trustworthy, our testimony about Jesus will also become more trustworthy to others as a result. God is a God of follow-through, a God of covenant promise, not of empty promises. He is true to His word, and will help us be men and women of integrity too.
Jesus is coming back! But we don't know when, so as we wait for Jesus we need to have patience. See how a farmer waits, after he has tilled, sowed, and watered. Even while nothing is happening he knows that the seed is growing and the harvest is coming. The harvest will come at the right time, and so will Jesus. In the mean time, we are learning to be patient - with one another! It's in the waiting and in the difficult seasons of life that we could easily fall into bickering with, or complaining about, each other. This is true for everyone, and that's why patience under pressure is such a powerful and visible expression of God's kingdom. Living for God in the here-and-now while waiting for Jesus will often spark faith in others to want to do the same.
Being wealthy is not a sin! However, we as people often tend to store up our treasures, and let them corrode or tarnish through selfish and unwise use. Wrongly withholding our resources from God and from one another, opposing God's will for our finances, our time, and our skills is destructively sinful. The good news is this: there are right ways, not just wrong ways, to harness wealth! So what does God want? He wants us to be generous, honest, trustworthy, and kingdom-focused with whatever wealth, influence, and resource we have.
We all face big life decisions: financial, business, relational, etc. "Do I take the job, the promotion? Do I make the big move? Do I marry this person?" These decisions have enormous effect over the trajectory of our lives, shaping our future and the future of others. God wants us to make our plans wisely, submitting them to Him in the context of a prayerful and trusting relationship with Jesus. In James 4:13-17 we are challenged to lead ourselves not just into big plans, but into following His calling, His word to us. Our sovereign God really does know everything, including what is really best for us. It's a good thing to dare to have big dreams inspired by God, to make wise plans in faith, and to tackle life's decisions boldly; it's an even better thing to truly seek His counsel and to submit those plans to Him.
What we really want is not always good. If we're really honest, what often dominates our minds, motivates our actions, and causes division among us is our own selfish desire. Sometimes we may want God's blessing more than we want God! Desire for power, control, comfort, or approval can destroy our unity and sideline our prayers, but God's purposeful desire is for a faithful people who learn to seek after Him and His plan rather than our own. God has given - and continues to give - grace that is greater than our selfishness and lack of faith. His unmerited favor and divine enablement help us to love Him in return, and as we draw near to God his promise is that He will draw near to us. He is faithful to us even when we have been unfaithful to Him.
Jesus deserves our worship. We praise Him, not just because we feel good or life is going well; we praise Him because he is deeply and truly worthy. Biblical worship and praise is not driven by our emotional ups and downs, yet as we give ourselves to praising our worthy God our emotions follow our praise. God promises that those who seek Him will find Him; God reveals Himself to us when we praise Him. In His word God invites us - and teaches us how - to praise Him physically with our bodies, leading our souls and spirits into worship as we do. Lift your hands! Shout your praise! Sing your song! It was God's idea, and He loves it.
Biblical wisdom is revealed by example, so the best teaching should be observable. Our submission to Jesus and the gentleness that comes with wisdom from him speaks powerfully to those around us, influencing their lives in a positive way. This Godly wisdom is not bitter, jealous, or selfish, and is not seeking its own gain. God's wisdom is pure and leads to peace, gentleness, mercy, and selflessness, like Jesus! Today we explore how to walk in this wisdom that represents the culture of Heaven.
Our words matter, and we are responsible to God for them. James reminds us that teachers, such as himself, will be held accountable and to a stricter judgment for the things they say. James also recognizes that sinning through the words we say is all too common. The tongue may be a small part of the body, but it is powerful, igniting fires of life or death with far-reaching consequences. If our words are a window to our hearts (and they are!), then inconsistent words - blessing and cursing out of the same mouth - reveal the brokenness in our hearts, while also distorting the very image of God we are trying to portray to one another and to the world around us. God wants to perform heart surgery, filling our hearts with His fire and His life-giving water, so that we can speak consistently from the overflow of His spirit.
Faith without Christ-like action is impotent! While our works cannot save us, they definitely are a testament of our faith. Faith is revealed by action; it is impossible to demonstrate faith without it. Saying "I have faith", provides no proof by itself. However, living like Jesus becomes proof of our faith to others. Faith without works is as dead as works without faith; they belong together. Faith is made complete in action. As believers our faith will be overflowing into our actions.
Rich and poor alike are: equals in Christ, carrying the same family name, and heirs of the kingdom of God together. Treating others differently because of their status or monetary situation is contradictory to the royal law of Jesus and is sin. In James 2:1-13, James challenges the church to treat each other without bias, prejudice, or special favor. Instead, we are called to love one another and to show each other mercy, as God has shown mercy to us through Christ.
It can be easy to have a short temper, speak too quickly, and to ignore what God has been speaking into our lives. The book of James says that as believers we are called to live differently. We are challenged to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. The true listening to which James is referring is not just a high volume of information passing in one ear and out the other, but an intentional receiving with practical application through faith-filled action! "What is God saying?" "What has He already said?" God will guide us to live these things out well in the real world while serving others humbly. This is part of our outward expression of our inward relationship with Jesus.
Every good and perfect gift is from God, and God has given us all gifts. Being the good Father He is, He has blessed us all in many ways and has also given us gifts of faith though hardship. Sometimes we may question if these gifts are actually good. We may even ask, "Do I really want this gift?" or "Do I really want to need faith?" James reminds us that God is the source of all good, is unchanging in His goodness, and God's gifts are for the ultimate long-term good of His chosen people.
Believers in humble circumstances can boast in their exaltation, James writes. They are a part of God's royal family and this is cause to celebrate. Greatness in this family is found in service, to God and one another. And the wealthy believers? They can boast in their humiliation. Their earthly status and wealth is temporary in the eyes of the Kingdom. They can still celebrate when they are being humbled because God, who has blessed them, is now giving opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Rich and poor alike experience trials, but the crown of life is promised to everyone who endures. The believers' inner quality is being revealed through their persevering trust in Jesus.
Making wise decisions, especially under difficult circumstances, is no small challenge. Living a normal Christian life in the face of temptations and trials demands wisdom! So how do we acquire wisdom? Thankfully we don't have to do it on our own. James encourages us to go right to the source. God wants us to ask for wisdom and he will gladly give it! So, how then does He want us to ask? With our faith in Him we are to ask confidently, believing that when we ask for wisdom He will give it to us. We should also ask wholeheartedly,not doubting, with undivided loyalty to God.
God's people everywhere will face tests and trials. The book of James says we are to consider it joy when we do. How are we supposed to have joy when terrible things happen? Certainly not by pretending nothing is wrong! We are called to lead our emotions and thoughts into a God-perspective on our circumstance. While we will certainly go through trials, we don't have to live as if hardship is all there is for us. We get to live as people on a great mission, God's mission. We can take joy in every challenge, knowing God is transforming us for this mission.
Preserved for us through John's gospel, Jesus makes multiple claims and promises, including the promise of eternal life for all who place their trust in him. Anyone can make a promise like this, but can he deliver on it? This is an important question, and a key reason Christians today celebrate Jesus' resurrection. We believe he is who he claims to be, and he can do what he says he can do!
Why were so many people gathered to welcome Jesus into Jerusalem on what we now call Palm Sunday? The reason according the John's Gospel, is because Jesus had recently raised a man back to life! In this story of Lazarus, we learn much about how God leads us still today: through great trials, into ever-deepening faith, out of death, and into abundant life!
When we hear a verse saying "pray on all occasions," is God's will for us that we pray constantly without ceasing, not even to eat or sleep? No, that would be an impossible task! God's will for us is to live in the Spirit, in unity, praying together and in all seasons, and to pray according to the season we are in. We are challenged to pray appropriately according to what is happening in our own lives and also in the lives of others. What is God doing right now? How can we thank Him for what He is doing in this season? It's not about how long we pray or how eloquent our prayers are. It's about praying in the Spirit, serving one other, and glorifying God with our prayers.
If you want to live a life that reflects God, and if we together want to have godly relationships, there will be opposition. It's not a matter of "if," but "when" that opposition will come in our lives. Knowing who the real enemy is, and knowing the tactics and schemes of the enemy helps us respond well. Ephesians 6:10-20 is fuel for a relational, praying church, giving us foundational and practical ways to prepare ourselves, and directing our Christ-exalting response.
How we serve and how we lead others in our own daily lives, in our church community, and in our jobs is an opportunity to reflect who Jesus is in our lives. Somewhere around 60 million people in the Roman Empire were slaves. These often-overlooked people are included in God's family and mission, and treated with dignity in Paul's letter to the Ephesians. His heart is to bring the transformative power to every part of society! No one is left out, or just a tool to be used and discarded. Listen closely today, be challenged, and see how God may be speaking to you.
With so much dysfunction around the idea of what a father is and what a father should do, is there hope for fathering well in this generation? Yes! God is the one who equips even those who were raised in great dysfunction to be great parents. Fathers, God is the one who qualifies you, and He is the one who has all the grace you need for all he's called you to be and do.
Does God really expect us to obey our parents? What does it even look like to continue to honor our parents once we're adults? Jesus is the perfect example of honoring His father, and His example demonstrates how we can begin to honor God as well as our parents. While it may be difficult for some of us, especially those in a difficult or strained relationship, God promises that there is blessing in doing so. He will help us to do the things He calls us to do! He has grace for us and will help us have grace for our parents as well.
What does a real marriage look like? Does it look like a Hollywood movie? In Ephesians 5, Paul looks at this relationship and how God has designed it to point to Him. It's through learning how to submit in a Christ-honoring way, and learning to love in the same way Christ has loved us that we can see a marriage flourish. Today's podcast helps us to reflect Jesus through real-life marriage.
Do you ever struggle with knowing God's will for your life: what to focus on, and what not to focus on? You are not alone in that! In Ephesians 5:15-21 Paul doesn't give us individually specific direction, but gives us some important principles to live by. Listen today to learn how God has designed your life and your decisions to be shaped by His Word and His Spirit.
Have you ever imitated someone? Perhaps a parent or someone you really looked up to? Well, what if God wants us to imitate Him? That may seem really difficult, but in Ephesians 5 Paul lays out some steps we can take to grow in this. Recognizing things in life that are not like our Father, like sexual immorality, all impurity, covetousness (idolatry), filthiness, "foolish" talk, and crude joking is a start. We can also observe and learn what pleases our Father; because we are no longer in darkness, but in light, we can begin to walk that way. So take the healthy risk to shine the light of God into your life. Take no part in works of darkness but instead expose them to the light. God has given us a perfect example of how to imitate Him, His son Jesus! By first applying His love and grace to our lives, we can then live out of that love toward others.
What is God like? Can we really live like Him in the way we treat one another? As Christians what if we don't? God calls us to put on the new self and live like He does, learning not only how to put away falsehood, speak truth, to handle anger in appropriate ways, and to give no foothold for the devil, but also how to build others up with our speech, to forgive, and to live with kind hearts. We represent a new kind of community, a new way of life, and a new kind of man. And in Christ our words and actions are powerful, releasing the grace of God into one another's lives.
As God's people we are empowered to live differently in Christ. We are challenged to put away futile ways of thinking and living, throw off the old self, and to sink into our new identity in Christ. How do we do this best? Together, as a new community!
Do you think of the church as a gift of God to you? Do you realize that God thinks of the church this way, and that He also has designed you as a gift to help the church mature? In Jesus' authority, generosity, and purpose, we have been given good gifts (people-gifts and leader-gifts) to help us all grow and mature as a church family.
Unity is natural to fallen humanity, though our hearts long for it! So how can we learn to walk together in a way that honors Christ? How do we maintain the "unity of the Spirit," as the Apostle Paul calls it? It will take humility, diligence, and much grace. In Christ and by His grace we can live and walk in a manner worthy of this high calling.
Have you ever met anyone who didn't want love? Everyone wants to be loved, and wants acceptance, strength, and sense of belonging! How can we foster an atmosphere in the church of love, strength, and fullness in Christ? Today we look at Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3 and see how prayer for one another can build us up, build us together, and build God's kingdom! it's in a praying church family that we are rooted in the love of Christ, the strength of God in His Word, and the power of God through His Spirit.
It's always good to have our vision clarified and encouraged! Today's podcast is all about why Destination Church exists: "Helping people become joyfully devoted ambassadors of Jesus Christ, in the power of the Holy Spirit, to the glory and delight of God our Father." We believe God is gathering real people from all walks of life who come just as we are, with all the distress, the debt, and the discontentment that life can throw at us. But God doesn't leave us that way! He is transforming people with problems into a people full of blessing and influence, and he is building something beautiful!
What's so special about Mary? God's favor is on her for sure. When God calls Mary for a great purpose, it's important for us to understand how ordinary she was; otherwise we may miss the point that this story is about Jesus. Just because she was ordinary, that doesn't mean God is! His Holy Spirit and His power qualified Mary to carry the impossible. This is still true today! It's God who calls ordinary people, qualifies the unqualified, and makes us capable to fulfill what He has spoken.
What was one of the first gifts Jesus received on the first Christmas? Or maybe a better question is WHO was one of the first gifts Jesus received? God chose a man named Joseph and gave him to Jesus to stand in the role of father, equipping him well for the job. Few people would have influenced Jesus as much as Joseph. Was he perfect? No, he needed a Savior just like all of us. Like Joseph, God is equipping each of us to influence others in their calling as well.
Is the church still relevant today? Many cultures across the world answer, "No." And yet, God speaks of a multi-faceted wisdom that He has chosen to reveal through the church. How can we discover and be a part of God's intent for the church? Paul's words in Ephesians 3:7-13 point the way.
What was a mystery to previous generations, God is now revealing through Christ. The mystery, as Paul declares it to the Ephesians, is that the Gentiles - the Nations of the world - are now co-inheritors together by grace, with full membership as chosen people of God. What's more, we are also "partakers of promise" with full inclusion in the gospel! We are not merely spectators, but called to partake together, to taste and drink in, all the wonderful blessing of Christ. This great grace is not only for us, but also for us to steward on behalf of one another.
A house is not the same thing as a home, is it? God is doing more than building a functional house; He's also building a home, and He's building us together into the household. Building us on apistolic and prophetic foundations, with Christ Jesus himself as the Cornerstone, we are being fitted together as a family on mission that carries God's very presence.
In Ephesians 2 Paul reminds the Ephesians that they were once Gentiles and separate from Christ, but now because of Jesus they have been brought near. Jesus, destroying the barrier of division and hostility, calls the Jews and the Gentiles together to become one new man,one new people with Christ. Do you feel far from God? Without Christ we were separate from God, excluded from citizenship in His kingdom, and without hope. But Jesus is always near! He provides hope and has invited us to be a part of His family: a united people proclaiming peace with one another and living out His purpose. This blessing and invitation is for all of us!
Do you ever feel dead? Or at least not very alive? Like you're stuck in your sin and just can't seem to live like you feel you should? The Bible says that before Christ we were dead in our sins, incapable of life. But in Christ we are now, by grace through faith, made spiritually alive, raised up with Christ and seated in heavenly places with Jesus! What a wonderful gift it is to be alive in Christ!
Does God really want to be known? Does He really want you to know Him? The answer from Scripture is a resounding yes! As Matt Deisen from River's Edge Church encourages us in this week's message from the end of Ephesians Chapter 1, we discover that, through the Holy Spirit, we can know Jesus more deeply than the earliest disciples did prior to his death and resurrection. The implications will shape every aspect of our life!
Do you find hope in God's sovereignty? Do you think of yourself as having a significant role in His sovereign plan and purpose? Is there any evidence that we really are a part of His eternal plan? Yes, and the Holy Spirit is given to every believer as a downpayment on everything else that God has promised!
What does it mean for us when Paul writes to the Ephesians that "we are blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places"? Can it really be true that through Christ, the blessings of heaven are ours today? Yes, and we get to enjoy these blessings because we have been chosen in Christ! Paul goes on to claim that we are also predestined for adoption through Christ. This means that before the very world was made, God chose us - hand-picked us - to be His children. Because of this stunning reality, in Christ, we have now also been redeemed and forgiven, and the riches of God's grace are lavished upon us. The question is, "Are we living as if all of this is true?"
Paul's greeting to the Ephesians is absolutely loaded with wonderful promise and truth. In this introduction to his letter to the church in Ephesus, we discover the power of being commissioned by God, the joy of being called a holy people, and the security of being a people to whom God has extended his unmerited favor, divine enablement, and total reconciliation. And to top it all off, we are included among those who can call God "Father." All of this is ours because of Jesus Christ.
Is the typical church gathering today a good representation of what the Apostle Paul says it should look like "when we come together"? What should our gathering look like? Does it have to be the same for everyone and every church? No, but there are some exciting things that all of us can and should expect! It might not be what you think...
What do you immediately think of when you imagine a church worshiping together? For each of us, media and our own experiences probably shape our thoughts on this topic. In today's podcast, we'll explore a few principles from Colossians 3:16-17 on the content of our worship together. For example, what exactly are psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs? Is there a difference? What does it mean to sing with grace in our hearts? Is it more important that we sing true things about God, or that we express our hearts to God in adoration? What if this snapshot of worship is developed in a local church community? The results will reflect the joys of the kingdom of God among us.
Why would Jesus travel into Samaria, a place most Jews tried to avoid? One reason is to bring good news to a woman with a traumatic history of brokenness. His conversation with her opens a window into Jesus' thoughts on what it means to really worship God. Have you ever wondered what Jesus may say regarding the ways we worship, and what it means to worship God in spirit and in truth? Enjoy discovering our Father' heart for worship and for those who worship Him!
Seeing elders established in a local church is an excellent blessing! As we recognize the gift of leadership God has developed in members of the Destination Church family, it's an opportunity to also look at what Jesus and the early apostles taught regarding elders and leadership in general. Radically different than many Western Christians may assume, elders are not domineering CEO-types, but servant leaders who help the church fulfill its calling.
As Paul and Silas were in prison, after being beaten, they start to sing hymns to The Lord. As they sing, an earthquake hits and the chains fall off of all the prisoners and the cell doors open. The jailer wakes up in fear that the prisoners have escaped, but Paul calls out, "Don't harm yourself! We are all here!" The jailer then asks how he can be saved too. This is amazing! When we praise God, He responds. We shouldn't only praise God when we feel like it. We praise Him because He is worthy, even when we don't feel like it, and He is faithful to reveal Himself.
Those who don't at first believe the gospel are in good company. When Jesus' closest disciples hear the news of his resurrection from the dead... they don't believe it either! Is God still committed to spreading the good news through these doubters? Yes, and in this conclusion to our series on Mark, we discover that Jesus wants us on board with proclaiming this same good news! His commission to us comes with heaven's power, protection, and partnership, and we can receive this fresh commission from Christ along with the earliest hearers of the gospel.
All of the Gospel of Mark has led to this moment. Jesus had said multiple times that he would die, and that he would rise again. Early Sunday morning several women come to the place where Jesus was buried, wondering who will role away the stone for them so they can prepare Jesus' body more sufficiently for long-term burial. Not only has the giant stone been moved, but Jesus is not there. What has happened?! If it's really true that Jesus has risen from the dead then this changes absolutely everything, and there is hope for all of us!
As Jesus is on the cross, the sky over the entire region is filled with darkness. Jesus cries out to His father saying, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" Jesus is experiencing, for the first time, the weight of sin as well as separation from God. Jesus, who had never known sin, is taking the judgment for the sins of all who will believe, so that we can be free. As Jesus breathes His last breath, he cries, "It is finished!" The curtain of the temple breaks from top to bottom, separating the barrier between God and mankind. The centurion overseeing Jesus' death notices something about how He died, and says, "Surely this man was the Son of God."
Jesus' death is confirmed, and He is laid in a tomb with the entrance sealed shut.
Jesus knows the root of all of our struggles, weather it be comfort, control, power, or approval. He doesn't plan for us to go through these struggles alone. God intended for the church to be like a family, and if we really are a family then we have each other to lean on in the hard times. We have people we can learn from and be influenced by, and we have people that learn from us. Who is God wanting you to learn from? Who is God reaching with your story?
As Jesus is being led into the palace and out to Golgotha to be crucified, the soldiers and the crowds mock Him. A crown of twisted thorns is placed on His head, purple garments are temporarily placed on His body, He is spit on and beaten, and hung up on the cross. The crowd mocks Jesus' authority as they shout, "Let this Messiah, this king of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe." In the middle of the torture, Jesus sees the whole plan. Because Jesus loves us, He endured the pain and suffering and He died for us! He suffered and died for the joy set before Him, that we would be saved.
Early in the morning, Jesus is handed over to Pilate (the Roman leader in the area at the time) and put on trial yet again. Just as the last time, Jesus is accused of many things, but He remains silent except on the matter of if He is the king of the Jews. Following customs, a prisoner picked by the crowd is offered to be released. The crowd is asked if they would like to release a prisoner named Barabbas, or Jesus, king of the Jews. Barabbas is chosen to go free, and Jesus takes his place as the substitute as the crowd shouts, "Crucify him!"
Jesus doesn't only take the place of one man, He actually took the place for every sin ever committed. Jesus, the only perfect one, took the place for you and me, so our identity is no longer found in sin but in Him.
Can there be any hope now for Peter? The man who promised to stay faithful to Jesus even if it meant prison time or death, has now refused to acknowledge that he even knows Jesus. Three times he has denied it!
Jesus, rather than making Peter earn his love and or work of lifetime to try to earn his salvation, offers grace. He gives us hope for the future by telling Peter that when he has turned back to Jesus again, he will have an important role: "strengthen your brothers." In the same way, when we feel like we have fallen to far, failed one too many times, and could never deserve a place in God's family or purpose, He has a merciful and miraculous way of redeeming even the worst of our sinfulness. Like Peter, our most shameful mistakes can become a part of God's salvation story. In fact, our whole story is a testimony of Jesus' hand in our lives. Can there be any hope for Peter? Yes! Can there be any hope for us? Yes!
The Sanhedrin meet in the middle of the night, against their own rules, looking for reasons to have Jesus executed. Despite false testimonies against Him, Jesus remains silent. He finally speaks when His identity is questioned. "You are the Christ?" To which Jesus responds, "I am." This answer is enough to have Jesus put to death, as He can now be portrayed as a false prophet.
Jesus' sense of calmness under pressure and His security in the statement, "I am," is our testimony too! Jesus isn't just the king, He is OUR king, and we are evidence of His kingdom today.
Jesus is in the garden with a few of his disciples when Judas comes with an armed crowd to capture and arrest him. Peter attempts to come to Jesus' defense, and in the process takes off a man's ear! Meanwhile, Jesus displays the excellent wisdom and commanding presence of the king he truly is, while also demonstrating perfect obedience to his Father as he commands Peter and the others not to fight back. Not only does Jesus go with his attackers willingly, but he even takes time to heal the man's ear! Jesus continues to be a perfect example to us of what it looks like to submit to our father's will, and what it looks like to show compassion and love to our enemies... even in the midst of deep betrayal, and when everything seems to be at stake. Through relationship with Jesus, we too can discover genuine compassion for our enemies that flows from Him.
As Jesus is knowingly being betrayed and preparing for what is to come, He takes some of His disciples away to pray with Him. They fall asleep... while Jesus spends time in prayer with His father. While understanding that He is about to take all of God's wrath upon himself, Jesus is under so much stress that He literally sweats blood. Jesus is a perfect example to us of what it looks like to have a relationship with our Father, to have full confidence and trust in Him, and how to completely submit to Him... even in extreme situations! We may not always have the strength to do what God asks us to do, but Jesus does! Through prayer we can begin to strengthen our relationship with Him and He will give us the strength to do what we are called to do.
Why do Christians take "communion" together? Is there more to this than just a religious tradition? We can discover the origins in Mark 14 as Jesus celebrates the Passover feast with his disciples. We also dive into these questions: Was the Jewish Passover foreshadowing what Jesus was about to accomplish in Jerusalem? Is his sacrificial death really enough to cause God's righteous wrath toward sin to pass over us? Can we really find life and freedom through him as the ultimate Lamb of God? Yes, yes, and yes! To begin unveiling these truths, Jesus has carefully arranged to celebrate this feast privately with his closest disciples, making sure they won't be interrupted by his enemies. This meal together will be like no other, as Jesus reframes the sacred feast with his own upcoming sacrifice as the focal point. Through Jesus, God is establishing a new covenant.
There's something amazing about extravagant worship that pours itself out wholeheartedly on Jesus. Some may call it wasteful; others may call it over-the-top, but Jesus calls it beautiful. Mary's gift of worship polarizes the crowd around her, maybe even being a catalyst that pushes Judas over the edge: no longer 'merely' a thief, he will now become the notorious insider-betrayer who will turn Jesus over to those plotting his death. More than Judas' betrayal, it's Mary's prophetic act of worship that Jesus wants each of us to remember!
Jesus continues to speak about the 'end times', warning us all to stay on guard. Yes, the return of Christ will happen, no doubt about it! However, no one - seriously, no one! - knows when this will be, not even Jesus. Since only the Father knows this detail, Jesus tells us that our role is simply to stay awake and stay alert. So, how can we do this? We can stay spiritually awake by spending time with God, with His people, and by intentionally involving ourselves in the daily mission He has given each of us.
Jesus doesn't warn His followers of extreme trouble to come to put fear into us, but because He loves us and wants us to be prepared. For the sake of "the elect" (God's chosen, hand-selected people from all over the world) God has actually put a limit on suffering. He also warns us to be on guard against pseudo-saviors and false "prophets." Make no mistake: anyone and anything that does not line up with the will of God will not stand for long, but Jesus' mission to gather His chosen people cannot be stopped. And we get to participate!
As Jesus looks upon the great buildings of the Temple in Jerusalem, He tells his disciples that one day not one stone will be left. He goes on to explain the signs of when this will be fulfilled. Everything happened just as He said it would. Jesus instructs the disciples: stay on course, stay calm, stay aware, stay on mission, and stay patient. Jesus says those who endure to the end will be saved! The best part is, we don't do this on our own. Jesus will help us through the process and help us endure to the end. Our salvation is secure in Him.
As Jesus teaches a large crowd in the temple courts, He warns against the leaders who put on a show. These are people who put on a false front to earn the respect of others, people whose hearts are not what they appear to be. Jesus then watches as the people from the crowd give their money to the treasury. The wealthy give lots, out of their abundance, but a poor widow gives two small coins, everything she has to live on. Jesus takes note of the woman and points out that she gave more than the others. No matter how much or how little we have, Jesus sees not only our actions but also where our heart is. And the way He gives everything for us will shape our hearts into a generosity that reflects His own.
When Jesus is asked what the greatest command of all is, He responds perfectly. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself." Can we really love this way -devoting every aspect of life to God, and loving people the way we want to be loved? Actually, no, not on our own; but Jesus can love perfectly. Through accepting Him and learning how Jesus loves us we can grow in our love for Him and for others, becoming more like Him.
When the Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus by asking whether or not it is lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, He responds with wisdom. Instead of falling into their well-laid trap He points them back to God. "Give back to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's." So, what belongs to God? Everything, including us! And God not only wants us, who are made in His image, He also has an eternal plan for us too: resurrection life!
When Jesus is questioned about where His authority comes from, the religious leaders claim they do not know. He challenges them - and us -with a parable about rejecting a beloved son. Jesus then references Psalm 118, saying, "Haven't you read this passage of scripture: 'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.'" Of course, He is the Cornerstone, a whole new aspect of God's plan is about to be revealed, and we get to be included.
As Jesus walks with His disciples He teaches them that faith in God can move mountains. We can expect big things to happen when we have relationship with Him and when our prayers align with His plan.
What Mary and Mary discover at the empty tomb is not just startling; it is history shaping. The resurrection of Jesus has implications for all of us: sin and death defeated, and resurrection life and power released into us as well. "Come and see," says the angel at the empty tomb. Then, "Go and tell." And as we go, we discover even more evidence that Jesus is alive.
Now that Jesus has come into Jerusalem to the shouts of "Hosanna!" from the people, the season of His ministry is shifting. In the temple itself, Jesus is bringing a dramatic shift. His heart for God's house to be "A house of prayer for all nations" is on full display as He clears the temple of its market atmosphere. How might God be shifting the season again with us today?
Yes, you can learn to hear God's voice. Join in with an evening of prophetic equipping and activation with Clem Ferris. Clem is a well-respected prophetic voice in the body of Christ today. Recorded on March 20, 2021, this is excellent instruction on hearing God's voice and then being good stewards with what we hear.
Things that seem a mystery to us are not a mystery to God. Events that are unexpected to us, even things that seem to ruin our plans, come in God's perfect timing. Seasons of undetermined waiting on God are designed for us to lean into God and trust Him through the process.
Do you feel necessary to the kingdom of God? You are! Both the younger generation and the older generation are important to Jesus. He wants to use the older generation to teach the younger generation how to carry His presence and bring His kingdom.
Have you ever felt like you're sitting on the sidelines, lacking vision, and desperate for a way forward? So was Bartimaeus. When Jesus came by, Bartimaeus, the blind beggar, knew that this man could help him. And when Jesus called for him, his faith was stirred and he jumped to his feet. Jesus is still stirring this kind of faith in hearts today, and he is still opening our eyes to see.
What should leadership truly look like? In a world of completion, self ambition, and desire for power, Jesus teaches us something very different: that to be great in His kingdom we must become servants.
How do you feel about Jesus wrapping you up like a child in his arms and blessing you? Now, how do you feel about him challenging you to give everything away and follow him? Whoah! Each of these represent a deep element of trust, and more than anything we can do for him, Jesus wants to be able to trust him. Are there benefits to trusting Jesus? Absolutely!
What happens when the "twitterpated" emotions of romance fade? What is God's heart for you when your marriage seems ready to crumble? Jesus words, "What God has joined, let man not separate," may seem hard for our 21st century ears to hear. They were no less difficult to hear when Jesus said them, and God's grace is needed -and available- for us all! Whether you are single or married, Jesus' teaching from the beginning of Mark 10 applies to us all.
Do you think of yourself as an influencer? Jesus does. Your words and actions are shaping the faith of others, and Jesus has something to say about this! Mark 9:42-50 includes some of the most challenging words in all of Mark's gospel, as Jesus talks about shaping the faith of little children, the eternal consequences of continuing in sin, and the call to live at peace with one another. This peace is actually possible by the grace of God.
You aren't the only one who sometimes feels insecure! The good news for all of us is that Jesus brings a security unimaginable anywhere else. Jesus himself is a secure leader, less concerned with how things appear than how the purpose of God is being advanced. He can turn our insecure preoccupation with power and position into a freedom to serve and to release others. It's a whole new way to live, and a healthy way to build a welcoming, serving, and releasing culture. The way Jesus serves us is the way he calls us to serve - and to lead - others!
You've prayed. You didn't get what you prayed for. Does that mean God doesn't care? He isn't big enough to handle it? That you're out of His will? Or maybe, could it be that He is drawing you near to Him? It's in active relationship with God that our faith grows, our confidence grows, and we grow in spiritual authority as well. In Mark 9, we see the effects of this as Jesus frees a boy from spiritual oppression.
The view from the top of the mountain must have been fantastic, but that wasn't why Jesus had brought Peter, James, and John there. What they were about to see was far better, and hearing the voice of the Father speaking over Jesus was stunning too. Jesus was transformed before their very eyes, the radiance of heaven shining through his humanity. Once again, they have underestimated Jesus, though they didn't realize it. His transformation points to the promise of our transformation in Christ as well.
It's good to have someone who loves us enough to tell us the hard words we may not really want to hear, isn't it! Jesus isn't afraid to say hard things. In Mark 8, Peter may not want to hear what Jesus has to say to him, but Jesus loves him - and us - enough to say it anyway! Bringing the kingdom of God required Jesus to go to the cross then, and it will mean following Jesus on the way of the cross today. Can we do that and still be a people of joy and freedom? Absolutely.
Who is Jesus? Our answer to that question may just draw us into the biggest adventure of our lives. Our world is overflowing with competing cultures, ideas, and traditions. Big Tech, Big Medicine, Big Politics, Big Money, Big Goals, Big Dreams, Big Promises, and Big Failures are everywhere. Where does Jesus fit? Jesus himself asked the question: "Who do people say that I am?" He followed it up with a more pointed question that we all must answer for ourselves: "Who do you say that I am?"
God is often surprising, isn't He! The birth of Jesus is no exception. The promise that God is with us, and will be with us means we can fully expect Him to continue doing great and surprising things today. We may not know exactly what 2021 will bring but as Christians we can say, "Be it unto us according to Your word." (We pick up today in the middle of Rich Ghrist's message from John 1.)
Sometimes good people get terrible news. Joseph is a good man, a hard-working man, a normal guy engaged to a local girl. And then he finds out she is pregnant. He is not the father. God turns this terrible news into wonderful news, and includes Joseph in His marvelous plan of salvation. The way God does it with Joseph is still the way He encourages us today - through the good news of Jesus. Words like betrayal, broken trust, and broken dreams are replaced with the blessing of sonship, security, and salvation found only in Him.
"She said yes!" But the event leading to her 'yes' was radically different than anything a girl would expect. Into the life of Mary, a common young woman with a common name in a common town, God spoke significance. We too are significant to God. Our 'yes' has a powerful place in God's significant plan. We are given the amazing dignity of being included in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Imagine seeing again for the first time after having lived with extended blindness. Imagine Jesus taking you by the hand, leading you out of town, healing your eyes, and then sending you on your way toward home, able to see and walk with clear vision. For the blind man in Bethsaida, this is what really happened. What a day! His steps toward home didn't begin with his healing though; they began earlier when Jesus took him by the hand. When Jesus reaches for your hand, what will your response be? God's invitation is to trust Jesus with permission to lead you, permission to access your inability, and to trust him with his process of restoration in our lives. Jesus may just open your eyes in ways you didn't even realize you were blind!
What would make Jesus groan deeply today? Maybe the way we often misunderstand him, getting stuck in legalism, sensationalism, nationalism, or other -isms? A confrontation with religious leaders of his day reveals how Jesus counters the deep insecurity, demanding unbelief, and dull understanding with which we can be all too familiar! Like Jesus' first disciples, we too are still in the process of "getting it," and Jesus is with us in this process!
How does Jesus respond to a spiritually hungry people? Will he send us away to find food elsewhere, or will he satisfy our hunger himself? Maybe a more dangerous question is this: Are we receiving and obeying Jesus' instruction, partnering with his plan, so that he can satisfy our hunger and the hunger of those around us? In Christ, our hunger can be truly satisfied, and we can then be sent as a satisfied people, living our lives out of the fullness of Christ. (This message was recorded the Sunday before Thanksgiving 2020.)
When Jesus is bringing healing to your life, don't be surprised if he does things that seem out of the norm. The Decapolis crowd wants Jesus to lay his hands on the man who is deaf and who has a speech impediment, and as we might expect, healing follows. It's how Jesus does it that is so striking. The way he cares, the way he communicates, and the way he looses his creation: truly, he does all things well!
Have you ever feel like an outsider living in a desperate world? As the Syrophoenician woman in Mark 7 discovers, the good news of Jesus Christ crosses borders and boundaries, bringing hope to many "outsiders." Awakening hope in us, this good news also activates that hope, stirring us into action, even infusing our hearts with an unoffendable determination! Most importantly, the gospel gives us a sure foundation on which our hope can stand: Christ himself. Come to him.
Do we really believe Jesus when he says, "It's not what you put in your body that is the problem; it's what comes from your heart that is the real issue"? "What do you mean?" we may ask. His answer is culture-shaping and heart-shaking: human lives (thoughts, words, and actions) are constantly being shaped - and defiled - by the state of our badly damaged hearts. In trying to address the symptoms of a defiled heart, it may seem hopeless, like mowing down weeds only to have them come back over and over again. The good news is that in Christ Jesus we have the promise of new hearts, total forgiveness, and culture-shaping hope for every hurting family, every broken neighborhood, and every nation.
Traditions can be fantastic! And they can be dangerous, when they don't line up with God's Word and God's kingdom. When Jesus tells a group of religious conservatives that many of their traditions are contrary to God's actual commands, we are wise to evaluate where we may be doing the same thing, and to re-align our hearts, lives, and traditions with Christ. As God's people, we can cultivate healthy traditions that foster faith and bless the world around us! And we can have fun doing it!
It's great to have alone time with God isn't it? "Me-and-Jesus" or even "We-and-Jesus" Christianity can become very isolated from the world around us, and we are meant to be a blessing to our world! There is a time to get out of our "boats" and to engage with the culture around us. When Jesus and his disciples do this (Mark 6:54), the people immediately recognize Jesus: 'The healer is here!' What follows is a pattern of miracles in marketplaces (on the streets) all around the region. Just what miracles does Jesus have in store for our marketplaces and our streets today? And how will we respond when he goes outside of our boxes of tradition?
We often don't see things clearly in the dark! When we're in the middle of a struggle, it can even be hard to recognize Jesus when he comes to us in ways and means we don't expect. Jesus comes to his disciples while they are struggling forward in their boat and making painfully slow progress against the wind and waves, and they are terrified. (If you saw a figure walking on the water in the middle of the night you would be terrified too!) Jesus words to them in their struggle and fear are the same words he says to us today: "Take heart; it's me!"
Have you ever said, "I need a weekend after that weekend!" After the disciples' successful ministry, Jesus takes them away for some much needed rest. The culture that Jesus creates makes time for rest, and also makes time for people. "But I don't have time!" we may say to ourselves. Jesus can do more than we ever could on our own, and it is a faith challenge to actually believe this and to trust him. Rest matters, people matter, and faith matters; Jesus is building a culture that embraces this.
Privilege. Power. Influence. Murder. When news of Jesus' miraculous ministry makes it to the halls of the rich and powerful we discover more than just political intrigue; we must also grapple with the current reality of God's kingdom colliding with our own privilege and influence, and our own agendas. What if we dare to get in step with God's kingdom purpose, and trust the result to Him? It cost Jesus' cousin both his political freedom and his life. It was worth it then, and it's worth trusting Jesus now too.
While most Christians believe the church has a mission given by Jesus, the answers to how that looks may differ. When Jesus first sends out his twelve hand-picked disciples to represent him, how he sends them is telling: he sends them together in powerful community, carrying both his powerful mercy and his powerful message in the context of friendship. He sends us the same way, and we can expect similar results!
How do you honestly think you would respond if Jesus came to your town and you didn't know who he really was? In Mark 6:1-6 Jesus comes to his hometown, and the people are stunned. And offended. Jesus marvels at their unbelief, and soon moves on to other towns... but not before healing a few sick people. No culture is so barren that Jesus can't bring healing to those who look to him. He makes time for the broken, even in an unbelieving environment.
When Jesus sails back across the sea he is quickly surrounded by a crowd, but it's the stories of two desperate people we are drawn into. Jairus, whose twelve-year-old daughter's life is in the balance, and a woman whose illness throughout those same twelve years has left her penniless and alone. We discover three kinds of faith: Finding Faith, Focused Faith (both of which can be surprisingly fragile), and Following Faith. All three kinds of faith are viable, and one is especially rooted into God's plan more than our own need. Jesus' words, "Do not fear; only believe," still ring today, and are re-awakening dreams and dreamers!
Can you imagine Jesus making a special trip just for you? In the middle of your messed up life, Jesus steps in just to set you free? This is what happens in the beginning of Mark 5 when Jesus sails across the sea and rescues one seriously oppressed man, and sends him home with a story to tell. And Jesus isn't afraid to wreck the status quo to loose this man's story! While the others in the Decapolis rejected Jesus initially, this one man and his story of rescue will fill the entire region with awe. Your story of Jesus rescuing you out of your "crazy" is just as powerful to those who know you and your messed up history, and can see the transformation Jesus is making in your life.
"Why are you so afraid?" Jesus asks. After a long day of work, he has set out with his disciples to sail across the Sea of Galilee. While he slept in the back of the boat, a severe storm set in, and the disciples are afraid. Jesus does more than ask this question. He challenges, champions, and changes them through the storm, and he is still doing the same thing for us today. Who is this, that even the wind the sea obey him?
Do you believe Jesus wants you to be able to understand His Word? That He wants you to understand and trust in His kingdom? He does! If we learn to listen deeply to the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Bible brings us so much life, and His word has power to produce his life in us. Though his kingdom may seem to start small, it will grow, bringing God's purpose in God's perfect timing!
Do you ever feel like your heart is hard? Shallow? Full of stuff you don't want? No matter how hard, how shallow or stony, how prickly or how stunted we may be (or feel), God is freely scattering and sowing the seed of the Good News of Jesus Christ into us. He intends this Good News to be fruitful, and He is committed to a fruitful harvest. So how can we receive and participate fully with His kingdom? How can our hearts be prepared like a good soil?
The home is packed full of people gathered to Jesus, listening to His teaching. But is Jesus out of His mind? His mom and siblings are convinced that he is, and they've come to do something about it. Jesus' response is more than a little bit shocking! It's also an invitation to each of us to become part of his family, and he even tells us how to do it.
In Mark 3 Jesus is accused by religious leaders of being in league with the devil. Jesus responds to them face-to-face, and asks, "How can a divided kingdom stand?" He claims to be powerfully plundering the devil, not partnering with his domain. Is Jesus still plundering the kingdom of darkness today? Yes, and he is still bringing freedom to us!
It was dangerous business that Jesus was up to when he went up a mountain and appointed twelve men as his apostles. The new community, the renewed Israel with Christ Jesus at its center, would be extremely controversial! (In fact, it still is!) These twelve men were hand-picked - although also very ordinary - and men in whom he took delight. Do you know today that if God has called you he also delights in you? Really knowing this is foundational, for God's call also will likely require great effort and sacrifice. Will you follow Him? (NOTE: There was a glitch in this recording, so they recording quality is very poor in the second half. Our apologies, but we wanted to make the material available anyway!)
What purpose might Jesus have in calling us to withdraw with him? When Jesus withdraws with his disciples by the sea, a massive crowd gathers to him, coming from not only from Galilee, Judea, and Jerusalem, but from the non-Jewish culture of Tyre and Sidon, from Idumea in the south, and from Trans-Jordan to the east. They come with needs, and they come because they want Jesus to set them free. When Jesus invites us to strategically withdraw with him, we can expect the results to be freeing for us and for those God draws to us, whether that's in "church", the grocery store, or the beach!
You can almost taste the tension in the synagogue on this particular Sabbath. A man with a real struggle, a debilitating issue, is there, but so are the hard-hearted legalists who are watching in order to trap Jesus. The story begins with a man in the worship gathering who has a "withered" hand. Will Jesus act according to their traditional Rabbinic law, leaving the man in his state? How does he handle this religiously-charged environment? And what will he do about our hands and hearts today? The invitation stands: stretch out your struggle.
Do you know how to rest? Could it be that there is physical, emotional, and spiritual rest for us in Christ? When Jesus says a Day of Rest was created for us, we are wise to hear His words and take them to heart.
Do you enjoy Jesus? Is that even okay to ask? What happens when we substitute spiritual disciplines for relationship with Jesus? When he is asked a question about why his disciples don't fast, Jesus responds, "No one fasts while the bridegroom is with them." Discover how Jesus uses three common life examples to establish our spiritual disciplines on a healthy foundation.
Who are the kind of people we would like to see follow Jesus? Now, think about this: who is Jesus actually calling to himself? Jesus calls to sinners, choosing even those society despises! In a culture torn through sinfulness of all kinds, Jesus calls both to people just like "us", and to people who are also very different to us, inviting us all to sit and to find rest and freedom at the same table with Him.
Is Jesus really accessible? Can He really forgive our sins and change our lives? When Jesus comes back to Capernaum and spends time teaching in the home where He is living, we see just how accessible He really is. Crowds fill the placee to overflowing, and four men show up at this impromptu meeting, bringing their friend who is paralyzed. They literally tear open the roof, interrupting Jesus as He teaches, and lower their friend in so he can be healed! How does Jesus respond? The implications for us are of eternal value!
During the Covid-19 pandemic a sense of being "untouchable" quickly permeated much of global culture, which brings up an important question. How does Jesus engage with the "untouchable"? In Mark 1:40-45 a man comes to him with a potentially contagious disease, and Jesus counter-culturally, physically touches him! A guy rejected by society, that the law demands be separated from society, is touched and instantly made clean. Beyond Covid-19, who are the "untouchables" in our culture? How does Jesus call us to engage with the outcasts? How is Jesus engaging with us?
We all desire to see God move in power. A good theology of His power is important - (The gates of hell cannot prevail against what he is building!) - but experiencing it tangibly in our lives is too! In Mark 1:29-39 we see Jesus moving in power in the lives of real people, bringing healing and setting people free from demonic oppression. He is moving today too in each of our lives, in our families, our communities, and the world, setting us free to serve Him; so how is he bringing freedom to your life in this season?
Is the Good News powerful enough to change us, to set us free, and to make us like Jesus? Can Jesus really do what he says he will do in our lives? When calls us to turn and to trust him, can he follow through with his promise? Absolutely.
Jesus has just heard the voice of his Father declaring, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased," and the Spirit of God has just descended upon him. It's time to step into powerful ministry, right? Wrong! It's time for a 40-day quarantine, and the Spirit "drives" Jesus into the wilderness. He will pass every test! God is teaching us about spiritual testing too, and strengthening us in the test.
Mark's gospel is a fast-paced, action-oriented introduction to Jesus! Who is Jesus? Mark tells us right away, and then sets out to demonstrate it through his account. Jesus' disciple Peter is behind the writing of this shortest of the four gospels, and in our introduction, we see the way Peter would have taught the story of Jesus' baptism, and Heaven's voice declaring over him, "You are my beloved Son...!"
Jesus was alive! The shock must have been stunningly heart-pounding. This would change absolutely everything, beginning with their hearts, and then affecting their entire lives. Jesus' resurrection from the dead is still changing hearts and lives almost 2,000 years later, awakening hearts, changing our heading, and filling us with a radical hope of eternal inclusion with Christ! (Mark 16:1-8)
As Jesus is nearing Jerusalem he makes an unusual request, intending to ride into the city on a never-before-ridden colt, an inexperienced young animal. This could be embarrassing if the donkey throws him, maybe even dangerous, but Jesus has a purpose. He has a purpose in our lives too, and is seeking us out. He knows right where we are; He considers us necessary for His purpose in the earth, and He will get glory through our lives.
What do a nationwide census, a deadly outbreak, and talk of good versus evil have in common? Though this sounds like it could be describing current events, it's actually the final chapter of 2 Samuel. When our "normal" is turned upside down we may not be able to control our environment, but we can respond to God well as we worship Him.
Do you currently have desires in life that seem out of reach? David could relate. He just wanted a drink from his favorite well, but it was currently behind enemy lines. Three of his warriors overhear him expressing his desire, and they take it upon themselves to fulfill it! His response in 2 Samuel 23 is a great reminder that God may be refocusing our priorities! In the current climate around the world of self-isolation to limit the effects of Covid-19, this week's podcast is a summary of the Facebook Live episode recorded on the Destination Church Spokane Facebook page.
When Eleazar stood to face the Philistines on the same ground where David had fought Goliath years before, the battle was intense, so intense that his hand basically "froze" to his sword. The victory was great that day, and the lessons we can learn about holding on to God's word in the battles of life are significant. How we fight the spiritual battles of our day is truly important! Josh Yakos from Revive Church in Missoula, Montana brings this message today, reminding us of a truth to fight for, a truth to hold, and a truth so often forgotten...
Have you ever been able to sit and listen to an older person with decades of experience in life? David is a wise old poet, songwriter, and leader. He may no longer be the young warrior he once was, but his wisdom is on display in the final song-poem he wrote, recorded for us in 2 Samuel 23:1-7. We can learn much from him about humbly trusting a sovereign God, making wise decisions in the present, and leaving a legacy that enables the next generation to thrive in God's purpose for them too.
Once Roger Bannister broke the 4-minute mile barrier, now over 1,400 runners have done the same thing. When David killed Goliath it seemed like a one-off event, but there's something inspiring about a man whose faith in God is coupled with action. Now in the closing verses of 2 Samuel 21 we see four more descendants of the giants - FOUR! - defeated in four different battles by men who follow David. What is it about this leader's faith that drew men into their own exploits? His own words in chapter 22 reveal some keys to faith that multiplies.
What if God is more committed to our long-term reconciliation than to our short-term goals? What if he is more interested in our long-term healing than our short-term success? What if God is more interested in our long-term blessing than in our short-term budget? These things are true, and God has plans to bless a radically reconciled people. The question is, are we willing to reconcile, not only with God, but also with each other? David was, and in 2 Samuel 21 we discover the power of reconciliation to bring the rains of God's blessing at just the right time.
One of the most vulnerable times in life is when we feel despised, overlooked, or under-appreciated. In these seasons our hearts may tend to follow after worthless promises. The good news is that there is a promise of freedom for all those who will turn to Christ from those worthless ways of living. It was true for the people of the city of Abel in 2 Samuel 20, and it is still true today. Together, we can find freedom in even the most difficult circumstances.
No one wants to feel like a victim, especially of someone else's sin or poor choices. Sin does create victims, but victimhood is a deeper issue of identity. When he is lied about and his inheritance is stripped from him, the way Mephibosheth responds in 2 Samuel 19 gives us a glimpse of true victory, found only in our King. The gospel of Jesus Christ lifts our focus from the wrongs we've experienced to the relationship that is ours forever in Christ.
David had fled, and now his rebel son will pursue. The decisions they make now will determine the future of the kingdom. We can learn so much from what each of these men do, including much about God working behind the scenes of our lives, and His heart for restoration for sinners.
Would you want to know if there were warning signs that you are living out of insecurity and a wounded heart? Absalom had a wounded heart, and the pain of his father's failures deeply impacted his life and desires. Like Absalom, we may try to fill the brokenness of our wounded hearts in unhealthy ways, but God has a much better plan. David's servant Ittai demonstrates a completely different attitude and approach to life that we can enjoy when our security is in Christ. God is turning rebel hearts into secure and faithful hearts through the gospel!
The king was longing for his sinful son, but how could he bring him home? Could God be longing for us in the same way, and can he bring us home too? 2 Samuel 14 reveals the heart of God for reconciliation with us. Even in our dysfunction, God has a plan. Where we've failed as parents, as children, and in other relationships. God has a plan to reconcile broken relationships and to reconcile us to Himself.
As we step into the tragic stories of Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom, scenes of depravity and revenge take the stage. Rape, murder, betrayal, and assassination are front and center, but can God redeem even this? What is God's heart for sinners? Even in the midst of King David's failures as a father, in 2 Samuel 13 we see the light of the gospel shining through the pages of Scripture. Even at our worst, God's heart longs for His people.
David was a murderer. Staying home at the wrong time turned into an affair, which led to a cover-up, which led to murder. Would God reject him now? Many today may ask the same question: "After what I've done, has God rejected me?" As we look forward in a new era, the same God who confronted and convicted David in 2 Samuel 11-12 is calling us to find hope in his story. There is hope, there is forgiveness, and there is a future for us in Christ!
Beginning in the second chapter of Matthew, we learn of the wise men, distant travelers drawn by a star to God's new hope: Jesus. They were foreigners, men of education and science, men of means. Unlike anyone else in the Christmas story, they were not Jewish or of Israel, reminding us that God will reveal himself to people who are like us and to people who are not like us, people who may surprise us! In fact, the way God's sovereign and supernatural plan unfolds is very often surprising - even startling!
Did you know that B.C. and A.D. in the Western calendar really do stand for "Before Christ" and "Year of our Lord"? Our measurement of history itself has been influenced by Jesus' birth. Could Jesus' birth really signify the end of the world as we know it, and the beginning of a new supernatural life made possible through him? Yes, and this is true for everyday people like you and me, as the classic Christmas story from Luke 2 reveals.
What is it about Mary that makes her so favored by God? What is it that qualifies any of us for God's supernatural favor? Is it great faith? Is it great obedience? These things have merit, but is there something deeper? The answer to this question inspires us today to say, like Mary in Luke Chapter 1, "Be it unto us according to Your word."
God is a supernatural God, but when Zechariah was carrying out his duties for the day he didn't expect to encounter the supernatural in such a stunning way. When God chose to speak prophetically for the first recorded time in 400 years, it was to declare an end to the barrenness in Zechariah's family. God had heard the prayers of Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth, and breakthrough was on the way. God has not forgotten you either. You're not too old or too young, too inadequate or too broken for God's supernatural ways to encourage and reroute your life!
Who is this Jesus? Why is it such a big deal to celebrate his birth? The prophet Isaiah spoke of a virgin who would give birth to a son, and his name would be called Immanuel, meaning God With Us. John the gospel-writer would later declare that Jesus is the Word made flesh. Could it be that Jesus really is God? Our answer to this question can lead us out from fear and into freedom.
A radical act of kindness can change everything. When David extends extreme kindness to Jonathan's son in 2 Samuel 9 we see a beautiful picture of our Father's love for us as well. God is calling people to Himself intentionally, calling us by name, calling us into restoration and relationship through Jesus Christ, and inspiring us to extend His kindness to others in Jesus' name.
The signals are crossed. Emotions are involved. The dream is at stake. In situations like this we need to hear from God clearly, and David is no different than you or I in this. He needs more than the approval of his friend; he needs to know what God is actually saying. When God then turns David's desire on its head in 2 Samuel 7, the promise is for more than just David. God's plan is a much bigger, multi-generational, eternal promise that includes you and me.
How does God want us to treat His presence? Could He really want us to desire Him? Are we really able to be "carriers" of His presence? Is it okay to have fun being with God, or is that disrespectful? In 2 Samuel 6 we find David desiring to bring up the ark of God's presence to Jerusalem; what he learns and demonstrates in the process may challenge some of our long-held worship traditions.
Do you ever feel like stress is a sign of a lack of God's favor? Both Saul and David found themselves in great distress, but only one of them was in sin. Everyone, no matter who they are, will experience significant stress in life, but not everyone knows what to do when it happens. In 1 Samuel 30 David responds to stress in two specific actions that can influence our lives in a wonderfully God-honoring and relationship-building way.
Vengeance sells. From Hollywood to heavy metal, vengeance often seems to win the day! When David has the opportunity to take vengeance on his enemies in 1 Samuel 24-26, his response and God's intervention have much to teach us about the power of mercy. God Himself chose to seek and save His people even while they were His enemies. Imagine the power that could be unleashed in the earth today as the people of God choose to release mercy toward those who have not been merciful to us.
What would you do if God began to gather hundreds of broken people around you? This is what happened to David while he was on the run from Saul, the king who wanted him dead. What David did is what Jesus has done for all of us: welcoming us from our various paths of distress, debt, or discontentment, becoming our Captain, and mobilizing us into an effective people!
The armies were drawn up in battle lines when the Philistine champion takes his stand. Over nine feet tall - count 'em, NINE! - he roars his challenge to the fearful Israelite line. For forty days the challenge continues until David arrives with provision for his brothers. His response to the giant's taunting points to our ultimate champion, Jesus. Jesus' unexpected battle plan, like David's, has powerful effect in the lives of those who believe.
Do you ever inadequate for the purpose of God? Do you ever feel stuck in your past or disqualified in some way for being effective in God's kingdom? Samuel was stuck in his grief, and David was stuck as an outsider in his own family, yet God had great purpose for both of them. He has great purpose for us too, and it's time to move forward in faith!
Have you ever felt like a straggler in the kingdom of God? Have you sinned "one too many times" to feel like God can work through you? You're not alone. As we see Saul being rejected by God in 1 Samuel 15, we also look backward and forward through biblical history to remember from where our acceptance truly comes, and how we can fulfill God's commission on our lives together.
Have you ever faced a seemingly impossible situation? Saul was in one and so was his son, Jonathan. They faced an enemy army that ridiculously outnumbered and "out-gunned" them. While Saul would struggle, Jonathan had an inspiring confidence in God that emboldened him and all those around him. As we look at 1 Samuel 13-14, imagine what can happen as we lift our eyes from our own ability or weakness to fix our hope on the God who cannot be hindered from saving, by many or by few! (Jon also shares some significant vision and direction for Destination Church Hillyard and Spokane in the days ahead.)
What if the real problem isn't what we think it is? What if God is doing something we hadn't even imagined? In a time of political unrest (1 Samuel Chapters 8-12) God interrupts the life of a wealthy man named Saul, and reveals much about God's heart toward us today.
Are you ever tempted to "hack" God's power in your life? Do you believe God is committed to displaying His glory in our world? As we look into 1 Samuel Chapters 3-6 we see God's glory on display in a stunning fashion that challenges and encourages us still today.
Today, as Jon Meek Sr transitions the leadership of Destination Church to his son, Jon Meek II, we hear from Scripture and church history regarding the passing of the torch from one generation of leaders to the next. When it's done well, it's very honoring to God! We included the prayers at the end of the message today.
How do you respond when life doesn't go according to your plan? Hannah was a woman who lived with shame and ridicule, but her response might be surprising. She prayed. She worshiped. And then she gave one of the greatest sacrifices a mother can make. As Jon Meek, Sr prepares to transition the leadership of Destination Church, he speaks of the life of Hannah, while also opening a window into his own family history.
Do you have a dream? Can you dare to dream it? Or do you feel like you're trying to run on empty? This second part of the story of Naomi and Ruth, two women who have experienced severe loss, is a story of redemption, of hope renewed, and a call to us all to put our hope in the better Redeemer, Christ Jesus, in whom we can dare to dream!
Do you believe God is committed to seeking out and saving lost and broken people even more than you are? Do you believe God wants to rescue not only you, but even those your cultural prejudices would tend to overlook? Ruth is from the "wrong side of the tracks" according to Naomi's culture and religion; and yet, God is working through Naomi in her own brokenness to draw Ruth to himself. What if we embraced the presence, power, and purpose of God working among us and through us to the culture around us?
We are often fascinated by people who live on the edge, who cross the boundaries of typical "safe" living and adventure boldly. But are some boundaries good? Why does God give us boundaries in our lives? Is it because He doesn't want us to enjoy life, or could there be something more to it, something deeper, something better? As we begin to look at the life of Samson, the first "superhero", we also face the realities of sin, failure, and a God who calls us back to Him.
Is it really true that Christians owe a debt of love to the people around us? Is it true that a local church owes a debt of love to the community around it? What would happen if we together embraced the Royal Law to love our neighbor as our self, and to "owe no one anything except to love each other" (Romans 13:8)? We just might turn the world upside down! Trevor Payne challenges us to freshly enjoy God's love for us that we can then love others as we have been loved.
If we are expecting the good news of Jesus Christ to make all our problems disappear, we are in for a shock! And yet, the truth remains that nothing in all of creation can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus! In a world of real problems and pain, we find great hope in Romans 8:18-39. We are predestined for a perfect future, though we live in a very imperfect present.
Trouble is coming. Input is needed. "God, what do I do? What do Youwant me to do?" Many desire to know God's will, and the big question is this: Are we walking according to what we already know He has spoken? As we continue the story of Gideon, we see a man who wants to be sure he's hearing correctly from God; as he continues to seek God's prophetic direction he also continues to move in obedience. Gideon's story reveals a vital key for us in following God's prophetic direction today.
Do you believe God will shape our lives prophetically with His word to us? God's prophetic training in the life of a man named Gideon begins with revealing Himself to this small-thinking man, followed by a prophetic promise and a prophetic challenge to address God-opposing issues in his own family. Here in Judges Chapter 6 we too are dared along with Gideon to worship in our struggle and to take the bold risk of tearing down our idols and turning them into worship.
Have you ever doubted that, though God is a God of miracles, He will work powerfully through you? Maybe you don't feel like a spiritual hero, but in Judges 4 we see real life heroism that looks very little like our modern stereotypes. When God puts faith into our hearts and we respond with obedience and action, nothing is impossible.
Do you know the presence and power of God in your life? Like God's people introduced to us in Judges 1-2, many people today are living on the stories of other generations - but God wants more than stories of yesterday for us! There are spiritual victories to be won in our day and stories yet to be told! God is raising up "salvation bringers" today, each with our own unique approach to sharing Jesus with people. Our methods may be different, but the gospel is the same.
Do you believe that with God all things are possible? In Joshua 10 we see God altering nature on behalf of His people in a way that is scientifically impossible. As Jon Meek Sr shares about Joshua's life of faith in God, he also shares stories of God's miraculous healing power in his own life. Do we have the "audacity" to ask God to move miraculously on our behalf today? He desires to do just that, not just for some special "gifted and talented" people somewhere, but through every follower of Jesus! Together we can be part of a great move of God in our generation.
Rahab likely did not dream of becoming a sex worker. Could God have a place for her among His people? Could he redeem a broken life like hers? Could he redeem brokenness today as well? As we engage with the famous story of the fall of Jericho (Joshua 6) we discover more than destruction. We discover miraculous salvation, God's grace at work in "unlikely" ways!
As Joshua prepares to bring the people of God across the Jordan River into their promised inheritance, God's word to him is to be strong and courageous. His commission involved acting on God's word. God's call to us today is also to be more than mere hearers of His word, but doers of His word.
As Moses prepares to pass the mantle of leadership to Joshua, it's both a thrilling and sobering time of one generation blessing and commissioning another. It's also an opportunity to learn to trust our sovereign God through every transition in life. The same God who commissioned Joshua to lead his people forward in faith is still commissioning us today to lead the next generation courageously and to trust confidently with our eyes on Him.
This Easter Sunday we look at Acts 10, discovering Jesus as the one who was not only anointed with power and the Holy Spirit, and who was not only executed on a cross for our sins, but who also rose again from the dead as our victorious Savior!
Freshly returned from our Regions Beyond church family gathering in Marathon, Greece, Jon Meek II shares vision for Destination Church's future in Spokane. God is on the move around the world, and we have a significant part to play beginning right where we are!
God's plan is to bless His people, and no one can thwart that. This should never be used as an excuse for sin in our lives though; sin is sin no matter who does the sinning! The story of Balaam, a seemingly devious prophet, demonstrates how God's blessing will be accomplished, and also how God desires a holy people who obey His word.
Have you ever felt like God's promise for your life has been derailed? It's been almost 40 years since Israel left Egypt and now, just as they see some success, they run into delay and deadly peril. This next generation of God's chosen people are extremely frustrated with God and with their leader, and their bitterness is lethal. As we look at this unique chapter of God's salvation story, we also learn a bit about our value of being "shaped by the prophetic."
Often, our biggest challenge in life is to see it from God's point of view! It can be so easy to focus on the circumstances instead of on God, especially when things seem difficult. In those moments - or seasons - we all have a choice to make: Faith? Or Fear?
Have you ever been the scapegoat for someone else's failure? Have you ever wanted someone else to carry the responsibility for your failure? Your sin? As we look at the Day of Atonement in Leviticus 16, we see how Jesus has not only made atonement for our sinfulness, but how He even completely separates us from that sin and qualifies us to come before God!
Do you desire God's presence in your life? Could it be that God also desires to be with you? With us? When God instructed Moses to build a dwelling place for Him among His people, the directions were specific, pointing over and over again to Jesus, our access to the very presence of God.
Who wouldn't want to be successful in following God's will for our lives? When Israel fails massively, we discover God's heart expressed through Moses as this leader intercedes for his people. God has made preparations for the success of His purpose in their lives and in ours!
Do you ever wonder what your reaction would be if you audibly heard God's voice speaking to you? Israel's reaction may not be what we would expect, but God speaks to the nation, giving what is commonly known as the Ten Commandments. Does this still have application to our lives today? Absolutely.
Do you ever feel like you have to "do it all" yourself? The truth is none of us, no matter how gifted, are called to do everything, and the wisest leaders will understand that we can accomplish much more together than we can on our own. As Moses gets a lesson in leadership in Exodus Chapter 18, we all can learn how God desires to release blessing through our own story. (Note: This message also begins a series on core values of our Regions Beyond churches. This first installment reminds us of the importance of leadership teams.)
Has God promised to meet all of our need, or all of our greed? When things seem difficult, it can be so easy to grumble and complain to others about our circumstance, but there is a better way to handle difficulty! As Moses and the people of Israel encounter hunger and thirst, we learn more of God's provision for us too.
God is never wandering, but is working, even in our desert times. Even when we feel trapped or tempted to give up and go backward, God provides a way forward. As Israel faces the Red Sea on one side and the Egyptian army on the other, God has a plan.
Pharaoh's stubborn refusal to obey God may seem crazy to modern ears, yet the call of God to obey Him still requires a response today. In this overview of Exodus Chapters 7-12 the finale will point to Christ, our Passover Lamb, and lead us to the blessing of responding in faith to God's instruction for our lives.
When Moses encounters God he feels inadequate for the purpose God has for him. God reveals Himself to Moses - and to us - as I AM. What does this mean for our lives today? Who is God, and what is He promising?
Will God's plan for you overcome all the challenges you've had to face? Can He work something good from your life and our lives together? Our answer to these questions profoundly affects our outlook on life, our ability to forgive, and our ability to trust God.
When heaven's glory breaks into the lives of some blue collar guys working the night shift, the best way to describe them may simply be "terrified!" We may also be more than a little afraid of God really and truly entering our lives, but He has provided a remedy to our fear. Luke 2 reveals Jesus as not only the remedy for our fear, but the reason for great joy!
Does God really have a plan for our lives? Even if it looks nothing like what our plan would be? No matter who you are, or what your past may be, God is able to work out something good. Really.
Do you ever feel like you're wrestling with God, like His timing is different than yours, or circumstances just seem difficult? Jacob finds himself between a rock and a hard place, and as he wrestles with God he receives something more than he was looking for... a new identity. In this story of Jacob from Genesis Chapters 30-33 we tap into God's blessing and identity for us as well, found ultimately in Jesus.
Can God bless imperfect, sinful people? Can He work in the lives of messed up people? Our "In The Beginning" series through the highlights of Genesis continues with the story of Jacob.
God wants each of us to understand how great the hope is that we as Christians have been given through Christ, and the marvelous new life we now have! Trevor Payne teaches from Romans 5:1-11.
In the story of Abraham, God chooses an ordinary man for an extraordinary journey. (This message was first preached by Jon Meek, Sr. at Destination Church on October 21, 2018. This recording is from the Regions Beyond USA gathering in Helena, Montana the following week.)
Imagine you are with Jesus at his last meeting with his disciples. He's telling them, "Wait for the Holy Spirit, and then you will go to the ends of the earth." Though these are relatively uneducated fisherman, Jesus has no plan B. There is no plan B for us either. What is our calling? What are we supposed to do? Today we look at four truths that will help us accomplish what God has called us to.
Are you a prisoner of circumstance or a prisoner of Christ? In Acts 26 Paul is before King Agrippa and is asked to speak in his own defense. Paul shares his story, how God changed his life and where he was going. How is God shaping your map? How is he calling you?