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The book of James comes with warnings and questions, of one of them is what's more powerful than a bit controlling a horse or a rudder steering a ship? A human tongue. If that's true, what words are we speaking?
One of the most controversial passages in the Bible seems to clash with Paul’s teachings of being saved by grace. James tackles the issue of saying someone has faith, but there is no evidence in that person’s life. How do what we do with our lives play into our faith of salvation through Jesus?
James challenges his readers with two very important thoughts. As believers, our religion is impacted by our words and our actions. And like it, how we treat others who are in different economic situations shows our faith in God. God cares for the hurting, broken, and those in hard situations. As we follow Christ, we must take on that same attitude.
James 1: 1-18 We shoiuld view trials in our lives as a means of growth, praying for wisdom to resist temptation during difficult circumstances.
With our body covered and ready for the attacks, Paul brings us two important pieces of armor – a helmet to protect our heads and a sword to attack. With salvation as our helmet and the Word as our sword, our armor is now complete for the battle. How can the hope of salvation through Jesus and the Word of God keep us from falling?
With our body covered and ready for the attacks, Paul brings us two important pieces of armor – a helmet to protect our heads and a sword to attack. With salvation as our helmet and the Word as our sword, our armor is now complete for the battle. How can the hope of salvation through Jesus and the Word of God keep us from falling?
The shield is one of the most important pieces of a soldiers armor. It is the first line of defense. It is used to protect vital organs against projectiles and attacks. Paul uses the picture of a shield to speak on our need for faith in this spiritual war. With the enemy throwing all sorts of attacks, our faith in God and His promises is what protects us.
Paul now moves to an unlikely piece of armor, the shoes. The caligae of the Roman solders were made specifically for long marches, with care taken to not form blisters and to breathe. Paul bridges the shoes of a soldier, with us getting ready for the long march to bring the gospel of peace to all people. How does proper footwear impact the spiritual battle that we are in?
Being in a spiritual war is not something most people think about. Yes we see evil and bad things around us. But a war? It seems impossible because it is an enemy that we cannot see. But that is exactly what Paul wants us to understand. If we do not equip ourselves with spiritual armor, we are going to vulnerable to attacks. The Belt of Truth and the Breastplate of Righteousness are foundational pieces that protect our vitals and hold everything together. How do we put on this invisible armor against an invisible enemy?
We often read the scriptures and see the men and women in the accounts as superheroes. The truth, is that God continually used ordinary people to do extraordinary things. As we read about Saul in Acts 9, he is chasing Christians down to stop their worship of Jesus. Then, he has an interaction with the Lord that changes him into a man who spread the gospel. On top of that, he disciples others, builds churches, and endures persecution. Is Paul really any different than what God is calling His people to do today?
Announcements happen every day, all the time and they have become easy to ignore. From personal, to companies and even country make them and yet few impact the world. 2,000 years ago, ordinary every day people started making an announcement that changed everything.
The Holy Spirit has come, and the gospel is exploding. Peter stands in front of a crowd preaching the truth that Jesus is the Son of God and people are repenting. Now that the group of Christians are growing, they are coming together out of both necessity and for community. As the early church gathers, what can we learn from them? Do we hold the same focus in our time, or have we drifted from the purpose of believers gathering?
We are on the other side of the good news of Easter. We know what happened, and we rest in that Hope - but now what? Jesus came to earth, conquered death…so that you could have life, a full life. We have received the gift of His love and mercy, but everyone knows a good gift is one that can be shared. In Acts we see the beginning of Christ’s church being formed. His call to make disciples who make disciples coming to life…as the Holy Spirit empowered, and transformed lives to live on mission. If we believe the story, let our lives reflect that Truth. Now is the time to take the “what” and place it before who Jesus came to live and die for. Would you believe? Whether you would have believed then, we get to answer whether we believe today - and the better question is what do we do with that belief?
All seemed lost. Their teacher and friend is dead. Doubt is flowing along with fear. Then reports came in – he isn’t in the tomb. He is alive! But if you were there, would you believe it? What would it take for you to believe that Jesus was actually alive?
Jesus takes the common topic of anger and flips it around. Anger isn’t just the yelling, hitting, or bad behavior. Instead, anger is something that is brooding in the heart and comes out through our actions. The Savior teaches that anger is so much deeper than we realize.
Jesus said it best…it’s easy to love those who love you. So incredibly true, and so is it’s counter – loving disagreeable people is just plain hard. We all have them in our lives. Difficult neighbors, bosses, and coworkers. People who do terrible things to make others miserable. But Jesus teaches us that the love that God offers us is not conditional. It is not based on our actions or if we are doing a good job of loving Him back. Instead, it is constant and unrelenting. His love does not have conditions or a sliding scale. His love is perfect and radical.
Anxiety, worry, fear…all words that are spoken of daily in our culture. We have more than ever, yet we are the most fearful. Jesus teaches us that we can learn to live with power and confidence when we let go and trust God. What things are we holding on to that are causing us so much harm and worry?
The apostle Paul had been through it all. Beaten, shipwrecked, wrongly accused and put in prison…the list goes on and on. His crime? Spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. And through it all, Paul makes the bold statement that he has learned to be content through all things. This statement stands firmly against our culture and our constant push to gain more. How can Paul’s words push us to find peace in our lives, no matter the situation?
Understanding the kingdom of God takes a perspective shift. We see the world around us with its wants and desires, but they lay in contradiction to God. In His kingdom, there are new ways and new values that we are told to “clothe ourselves” in. This covering and new allegiance brings us into alignment with God’s kingdom…so why is it so hard for us to embrace it?
Kingdom living is so much more than just knowing what God wants for us. It requires us to do. But this type of living will not be possible on our own, it requires power, strength and endurance that comes from an intimate relationship with God. If Kingdom living is more than knowledge and requires power from God, what must we do to live a life worthy of Lord?
Unshakable Kingdom | Part 3: Kingdom People, Kingdom Prayers | Scott Moore by Mosaic Church
A great tension lives among us. On one hand, we have the world and culture we live in with it’s morals and principles. On the other, what we see in the Bible and what God is saying should be our focus. In this tension, we live between two kingdoms each calling us to very different values. If God has called us to focus on His Kingdom, what can we do in 2026 to give our full allegiance to Him?
Why are the guys who study the mysteries of the universe showing up at Jesus’ birth? We’ll explore who the Magi are and what God is trying to tell us.
Imagine being Mary - a young teen girl who is visited by an angel that tells you that you are going to have a son…even though you are a virgin. Imagine the fear, questions, and confusion. Every time you enter the market, people are whispering and talking about it. The difficult task of bringing Jesus into the world was on her shoulders. What can we learn from Mary and the impact she made on all of humanity?
Often, we view our choices as ones that impact only ourselves. But wisdom not impacts our lives, but the lives around us. When we are generous, others reap the benefits. When we love outwardly, people who may not deserve such an act will receive love. The Proverbs teach us that Godly wisdom changes us, our community, and the world.
The book of Proverbs is full of statements, advice, and insight. This book is full of wisdom, and information on how to live our best life. With anxiety, stress, and depression on the rise, what truths can we find in the Proverbs to help us find mental, physical, and spiritual health?
Knowledge is all around us. With a few clicks we can find out information on any topic. However, wisdom is different. Wisdom guides us in making the correct decisions and choices at the right time. The book of Proverbs is a guide for all to know what is wise, and how we can apply it to our lives.
Jonah is spit out by the great fish onto dry land and the Lord reinstated the mission He had for him: go to Ninevah and preach the truth of their sin. This time, he goes. The people heard the message and the nation mourned and repented. They turned from their ways, and God spared them. What can we learn about God as he forgives not just Ninevah, but Jonah too?
In chapter 2 of Jonah, we see our prophet in a terrible situation. Drowning and crying out to God. A great fish swallows him, and the chapter details his prayer and confession. In the darkest of days, do we call out to God in repentance and worship or do we blame Him and turn away?
The body cannot support itself without strength. Strength of muscles, bones, tendons and organs are vital to our survival. In Galatians 6 we are encouraged to use our strength to help those who are in a time of weakness. How does the Law of Christ to love God and love others give us the strength to carry other’s burdens?
Every day our lungs are filling with oxygen rich air. We rarely think about it, but this action keeps us alive and without it, we would perish. In the same way, prayer is vital to our spiritual lives. In Matthew 5, Jesus gives us instruction of how to pray and have a talking relationship with our Father. What is your relationship to prayer? Are you taking deep breaths or holding your breath?
We can do all the right things to take care of our body, but if we do not have proper nutrition, we will not have the power and endurance needed. In the same way, the scriptures are nutrition to our soul, giving us endurance and perseverance to follow the Kingdom of God.
When maintaining our relationship with God, we must keep one thing in mind above all else: Gratitude is the core of a healthy relationship with God. When the Hebrews were wandering in the desert, ingratitude led them to an unnecessary additional forty years before entering their promised land. The key to gratitude is remember who God is, and all He has done.
In the last chapter, the author is going to share last thoughts and short statements as a closing. From loving each other, to holy living and supporting Christian leaders, the final chapter offers us practical ways to live our lives for Christ.
In chapter 11, the “Heroes of Faith” are discussed to provide hope and encouragement to the reader. Chapter 12 begins with looking to them for encouragement, and then brings some themes about our walk with God. Looking at God’s discipline, our relationship with other believers, and our future with God for eternity, the author is bringing important last thoughts as the book is coming to a close.
Chapter nine brings the Old Testament tabernacle to the forefront to explain how Jesus is the perfect High Priest and sacrifice. The old covenant was a place holder for when the perfect sacrifice would come, which was Jesus. He did only what he could do, which was to complete the old law to usher in the new covenant between God and humans. But it would cost the very blood of the messiah to be shed.
Chapter 7 turns our attention to a name we have already heard several times in the book of Hebrews, Melchizedek. This mysterious figure mentioned only one other time in Genesis seems to have a deep connection to proof that Jesus is the perfect High Priest, but in what ways? How can someone who seems to have such a small; role in the history of Israel have such an important role in proving the permanent and perfect priesthood of Jesus?
Hebrews 5 reminds us that Jesus is our perfect High Priest, chosen by God, who really gets our struggles because He faced suffering. That suffering brought Jesus to a place of obedience to the will of the Father. The chapter also pushes us to keep growing in our faith, not staying stuck in the basics, but becoming stronger and deeper in our relationship with God.
Jesus’ superiority over angels and Moses has been established. Now the author turns to compare how the Hebrews entered the rest of the promised land, and how that same rest is offered in a greater way to us through Jesus. We must take guard to stay close to the what the Word of God teaches us, so that we stay strong until the end.
Hebrews 2 starts with a clear warning…we cannot miss that Jesus has offered us salvation once and for all. Jesus did what we could not do, he lived a sinless life so that He could save us. Now, he has become the perfect high priest for humanity and our representative before God.
Hebrews 2 starts with a clear warning…we cannot miss that Jesus has offered us salvation once and for all. Jesus did what we could not do, he lived a sinless life so that He could save us. Now, he has become the perfect high priest for humanity and our representative before God.
Forgiveness is a concept that so many talk about, and desire from others. We say “I am sorry,” but what does it look like to truly forgive someone and to also receive forgiveness? When we explore the words and actions of Jesus, we can learn the one and true meaning of forgiveness and how to forgive others.
After Jesus left his disciples with the mission to spread the word about His death and resurrection, the word was spreading like wildfire. However, a big problem rose up. The Jewish people were blending salvation through Jesus, while believing they must keep the Law of Moses as well. Do they keep doing sacrifices and rituals, or have they all ended when Jesus rose from the dead? And for us today, do we have to do Christian things to keep our relationship with Jesus? The gospel is much simpler then we understand.
There are so many things in life that we want, but we think they are things we need. A new car? Want. A picture perfect yard with no dandelions? Want. Someone to save us from the mess of sin we have created? Need. Jesus did something only He could do, He became the perfect sacrifice once and for all. Now, there is no need to go to the tabernacle with our sacrifices. Jesus has done it all, and we need Him.
From Resurrection to Return | Part 2: From Control to Commission | Nick Jonckowski by Mosaic Church
In Matthew 28, we see that Jesus has risen from the dead. The guards at the tomb were bought off by the High Priests to say that the disciples stole the body. Questions were swirling, and Jesus meets his disciples in Galilee where so much of their ministry happened. He gave them and all of us a clear purpose – continue His ministry and go make disciples. It is such a clear command, but why do so many modern Christians not carry out this calling?
Jesus sat down in the temple and was watching the crowd come in to worship and give offerings to God. He calls his disciples together to point out a very unlikely person…a poor widow who had very little to give. Jesus calls out her heart of generosity and giving all she had, over those who gave much but also had much to live on. How can the act of generosity by this woman change our view of giving to the Lord?
We’ve all seen it or experienced it: that toddler who breaks down into screams and tears in a store because she didn’t get what she wanted. In children, we see the root of selfishness and greed- the desire to want more and to be satisfied. That same behavior, but now more subdued, is seen in adults as we work to aquire more and to keep all that we have “earned.” However, scriptures teach us a very different story. To understand generosity we first need to understand the root of our greed, which keeps our hands closed instead of open with all that we have.
As all of the celebrations comes to a close, there are those who happily proclaim “only 364 days until next Christmas!” For some, the waiting and preparation is even greater than the festivities. For Simeon, he had dedicated His life waiting for the Messiah to appear. And then, 40 days after the birth of Jesus, Simeon meets him. The waiting and preparing led him to that special day, when he held the King of the Universe in his arms.
Where is God when life feels uncertain? This week, we’ll explore the promise of Immanuel—'God with us'—and discover how His presence sustains us in our struggles, redeems our brokenness, and comforts us in grief. Join us as we reflect on the hope of Christmas: a God who stepped into our world to remind us that we’re never alone.
Israel was waiting for their Messiah through years of silence from God. Then, a miraculous birth was announced with angels, trumpets, shepherds and Magi. He was here, the one to save them…but not they way they thought. The Messiah was about to bring peace on earth, but it was shalom, not a military presence. Peace with God was now available to everyone if they simply believed Jesus was the one the world was waiting for.
Christmas season finds all of us rushing and preparing. From decorations to gifts, parties, meals and more, we are on the move day after day. We rarely slow down to think through the details of the season and what it took for Jesus to be with us. Our story of salvation began when He laid down his splendor and majesty to become a baby in a manger…a greater sacrifice then we could ever know.
Jesus started a movement of love and reconciliation, and he commanded his disciples to copy him. So much so, that Jesus gives them the example that as much as the Father has loved Him, He has loved them. Now they are to go and love each other the same way. Seems clear, but sadly that is not what believers are known for. We should be known for crazy, radical love for each other. Instead, we are known more by how we do not love. Jesus’ command to love speaks directly into the modern church, and it is time to change.
To understand how to follow Jesus requires us to have a clear view of His authority. John begins his letter with a clear view of Jesus as one who was not only there in the beginning of creation, everything was created through Him. As being the Word – or the action of God – Jesus has all authority over all of creation. How does this impact our lives as we seek to follow Him?
So many people claim to have the right answers about God. Some based on feelings, experiences, and preference. Others scour the scriptures trying to understand more about who Jesus is. The truth is, that if we do now KNOW the Way, we will never know our way. With Jesus as the central figure of our story, what must we do to know Him better?
There are all sorts of sub culture groups that we ascribe to. They impact what we think, what we do, and how we respond to circumstances. While community is good, if the culture influencing that community isn’t bound up in Truth we can get sidetracked. We can find ourselves angry, confused, sad…lost. There’s one agenda we are called to subscribe to. Jesus is The Way, the way to freedom, peace, joy…everlasting life. Together, we will discover what we receive when we live and abide in The Way.
Paul once again needs to warn the church in Thessalonica. They were being misinformed and confused that the time for Jesus to return has come. However, signs of the end were not there yet. Most obvious, is the rise of the antichrist who would demand to be worshipped as God. This man will be overthrown by the simple word of the Jesus, and will usher in the end. This sign has not come yet, but will we be ready and stand strong if it happens in our lifetime?
After Paul’s instruction about death and the resurrection, He continues to challenge and encourage the church: be ready for Christ’s return. We don’t know when He’s coming, but it will be like a thief in the night and we need to be fully ready for Him. Living the in the truth of His imminent return, are we doing what we should be doing to prepare?
Death is something everyone must process, yet so many people have varying beliefs and views. Paul in his letter to the Thessalonians encourages them with the truth that we should grieve death, but different from the world. We have hope in the words of Jesus that both the dead and alive will meet Him in the air when He returns. How do we hold that grief of death in view of eternal hope in Christ?
From the time that Jesus left the earth, believers have been anticipating his return as king. Generation after generation believes their time is the time He is coming, but we all still wait. As we wait, what should we doing? Paul challenges the believers in Thessalonica to focus on their holiness so they are ready. Nobody knows the time Jesus will return except the Father. So what are we to do with our lives so when He comes, we are blameless?
One of the greatest pieces of advice I could give or receive is to be a lifelong learner. Tooperate within a framework that says, “every day is an arrival”...that it’s possible youhaven’t learned all there is to know about something, or someone...that life experienceshapes our viewpoints, interactions and expectations in ways we could never imagineuntil we find ourselves there. Our walk with the Lord is no different. His ways arebeyond our ways, His word is living and active - His spirit continually reveals new things.Our job? To be willing to continue to learn, to operate outside of a paradigm where youbelieve you have all the answers, and there’s nothing left to know. The beauty andmystery of our faith is that there is always more learning to do - and while we figure thatout there’s always more than enough grace.
Worship is something fundamental to the gathering of Christians, but exactly is it? Is it song, is it prayer, or something else? The modern church refers to it as songs, but in the scripture we see something bigger than that – it’s a posture of reverence and honor to God. How do we hold that posture not only in the good times, but also when we are in the valleys of life? There is a very short section that was lost due to a tech issue. There was nothing in the missing footage that impacts the sermon.
The early church was exploding, and people were following this new movement of Christians from all over. As they were living out the teachings of Jesus, a problem occurred. The non-Jewish widows were falling through the cracks. The apostles addressed the problem, and realized they need to pray and teach and assign others to the very important ministry of care. It was a great model that has been lost in the modern church. We expect our pastors and leaders now to hold 100 different roles while people attend but not participate in the mission of Jesus. What has happened, and how do we get back to our roots?
The modern church seems to be in trouble. People are leaving in droves, with many reasons of why. Some don’t see the point, while others come from a place of hurt and disappointment. The church has a messy storyline, but we see something special at the beginning of Christians gathering in Acts 2. What can we learn from the early church that may change our perspective and purpose today?
Ever felt like certain sins are holding you back from fully living out your faith? This week, we're diving into the book of Malachi to explore how even the smallest compromises can sabotage our spiritual journey. Join us as we uncover what it means to live in covenant faithfulness and discover how true freedom in Christ begins with faithful obedience. Let's take this journey together and embrace the fullness of God's blessings.
The book of Zephaniah anticipates the Babylonian exile. It foretells thedestruction of Jerusalem and the deportation of the people on “the day of theLord.” The book captures the major themes of God’s wrath, mercy, and a remnant left that many of the other prophetic writers had written about, but in a much briefer text. Haggai however looks at what happens after the destruction of Jerusalem. Given the freedom to return by the Persians, God’s people begin a pilgrimage back to rebuild the temple and form a renewed relationship with God. However, the people didn’t rebuild the temple….they focused on their homes and society. Once again, God’s correction and mercy are at the forefront of the story.
Micah is sent to the Samaria and Jerusalem with yet another warning. Like the religious leadership of Jesus’s generation, Israel’s civil and religious leaders had rejected the ways of God and had fostered a false security in the Lord. However, He is not fooled and judgement is coming. Yet, inside of this warning we see the loving mercy of God, with promises to restore His people. His request for His people is simple – we wants them to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with their God.
Obadiah is sent with a harsh message to the neighboring kingdom of Edom. Edomites had attacked and plundered Judah after they were invaded by Babylon. What seems like a political or geographical advantage after an attack actually runs much deeper. Edom was founded by Esau, and Israel was founded by Jacob his brother. This betrayal and attack on God’s people will not be tolerated, and Edom is now about to be destroyed.
The shepherd Amos was called from the southern kingdom to bring a message to the northern with a message – God is not pleased. Living in decadence, the people of Israel have veered far from God. Their abuse of wealth, power, and privilege has brought them to a place of judgement. Amos warns them about their idolatry and lack of justice, but will they listen and repent?
When our circumstances are ever changing, and seemingly often beyond our control - it can bedifficult to remember that there is a God who is consistent, and over all. This isn’t a new humanstruggle. Since the beginning of time, humankind has attempted to control and manipulateoutcomes. Yet, the great leaders of our faith, showed us that it is through prayer, repentance,and God’s grace - that we can surrender to His will and trust in His name no matter what comesour way.
The story of God with His people is a repetitive one: during time of prosperity people lose their love of God, God punishes, they return. We see God’s unwavering patience once again in the book of Hosea. This prophet was asked to do something very unique. He was to marry a prostitute to show the people of Israel what their relationship with God looks like. Hosea’s wife cheats on him and leaves him, only to have him forgive and buy her back. God’s view of sin is serious and deep, and his love for his children is on display over and over again.
esus once gave a great sermon, and He said a lot with a few words. Meaning the message is simple, but why is it so hard to do simple. We are going to take a look at some of these simple words and we are going to answer the questions: What you goin' to Say? ...... What you goin' to Do?
Obedience ought to trump reason. We learn this, and live within this when we are rooted in Him. Abiding in His grace, truth, and love. Love, the fruit that becomes evident as we take one intentional step at a time to remain in Him. Living on mission is no more complicated than remaining in direct contact with our Father, thanks to His son Jesus, we are able to do just that. As we do, our eyes are opened to the need in and around us. That need invites us to join Him. What does obedience look like? How do we know we are rooted in Him?
Somewhere along the way, the church lost it’s purpose. Jesus built the church so that his children would come together to care for each other, help the poor, and to go out and make disciples. It seems now, we see church as a “what did I get this week” instead of “how did we worship God this week.” What changed? Fundamentally, we moved from a discipleship movement to a consumer one. What if that can be redeemed? What if God is calling us out of church buildings and back with people…living on purpose to love people and share our hope in Jesus. All is not lost…Jesus is igniting a new movement among His church.
Jesus has set everything right between us and God. We are reconciled (atonement) and the relationship is fixed like it never happened, and we are now adopted into His family (justification). Since Jesus did all the work, and we can’t earn our way to heaven, where does continuing to sin come into play? As Christ followers, all sin is covered, so does it matter if we sin? Paul address this in Romans 6 where we will explore the concept of sanctification. If we truly understand and embrace the Gospel, we will want to be less of our former sinful self and more like our new Lord and master Jesus Christ.
We learned that Jesus did everything to fix our status with God when he took our punishment for sin. Atonement offers us the position as if we had never sinned if we accept Jesus’ life in our place. Justification takes the relationships status even deeper, where the Good Judge not only finds us not guilty, but goes all the way to say we are reinstated into His family as His children.
Buzzwords are words or phrases, new or already existing, that become popular either universally, or in a certain group of people. The church is not different. There are words we hear in the church that are more than just a phase, but an important piece of knowing our relationship with God. That is true of the word ATONEMENT. We have heard it many times, but what does it really mean, and why is it part of our faith journey?
Did you know that God calls you His Masterpiece?You, just as you are right now, are priceless to God.Come, and find out how seeing the good in yourself can change your life.
Doubts and faith seem to go hand in hand, don't they? Think about it – even the big shots in the Bible had their moments of questioning. But then there's Thomas, who took doubt to a whole new level in John 20. It took a face-to-face encounter with Jesus to set him straight. Jesus didn't just calm Thomas' doubts; he made it clear that real faith means trusting what you can't see, not just what's right in front of you. So, as we journey with Jesus today, it's normal to have our moments of doubt. But let's take a page from Thomas' book: admit our doubts, take them to Jesus, and hang onto a simple faith that keeps us moving forward in His mission.
Jesus is dead and gone, and the disciples and the crowds that followed Him were deeply disappointed. They believed that He was going to save them, but now hope is over. 2 men walking home from the Passover festival in Jerusalem were talking all about this, when a stranger joined in the conversation. Was Jesus really the Messiah? If so, how could He save them now that He is gone? Where they disappointed with the true Jesus, or the one they thought He should be.
The crowds have scattered, and the body of Jesus was laid to rest. At sunrise 3 women make their war to the tomb to finish embalming His body, to be met with a terrifying surprise…the body of Jesus is gone. They are told that He had risen and to go tell the disciples, but the instead fled in fear. The resurrection proves his triumph over death, and it would take eyewitnesses of Him alive that would prove He was who He said He was. Do we flee in fear when it is time to speak of Jesus, or do we boldly tell everyone He died for our sins, but also he has beat death and has risen from the dead!
As Jesus ends up his instructional prayer, he lands with something that seems confusing: “God please don’t lead me into a place where I could sin.” But when we look into this further, that is not at all what is being petitioned. Continuing with the theme of bringing our needs before God, Jesus shows us we need to ask God to offer DELIVERANCE from something we cannot overcome on our own, evil.
The Lord's Prayer | Part 5: On Earth as it is in Heaven | Nick Jonckowski – Mosaic North Carolina by Mosaic Church
As Jesus continues in His prayer, He now brings a request to God: “give us today our daily bread.” This simple request is rich and full of meaning. Requesting the needs for the day, speaks against self-reliance and storing up for the future. Our hearts in prayer once again should be focused on our heavenly Father, but this time on how He is the one who gives us everything we need.
Jesus moves in His teaching on prayer that our focus is still not on us or our needs. Instead, we put our focus on God’s kingdom and His will. So few believers understand what this means, which often lead us to praying for the wrong things. If we look at God’s values and characteristics, we see a beautiful prayer of us seeking the expansion of God’s reign here on earth, just like it is in heaven. How can praying this way change our lives and relationship with God?
Jesus moves in His teaching on how NOT to pray, to how to pray. The beginning is a bit shocking. He doesn’t give instructions on how to talk, or even how to ask God. He teaches us to address God as Father, as separate in heaven, and as protectors of His holy name. Jesus demonstrates that prayer starts with our hearts fully focused on Him, not on ourselves.
Have you ever been in a big circle of people, and they are going around the circle asking everyone to pray out loud? It can be so nerve-racking as some people use big, elaborate words seeming to know exactly what to say. How exactly do we pray, and just as important, how should we NOT pray? Jesus gives us the perfect answer and prayer in Matthew 6. Prayer must be meaningful, intimate, and focused on our relationship with our Heavenly Father.
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and with it mounds of chocolate, flowers, and cards. On this holiday, we take time to share with others how we feel about them and our relationships. Unfortunately, that way of thinking has crept into our relationship with God. We tend to have moments where we adore and worship Him, but that is not what He has asked of His people. God has called us to love Him with all that we are, and in turn obey Him knowing He offers the best life possible for us. Do we love Him 365 days a year, or more with a Valentine’s Day type of love?
Remember those childhood games like kick the can and flashlight tag? What made them so fun was it was played in the dark, and we would use the shadows to try to sneak around. However, the darkness also held dangers, such as potholes, items in the yard, and more. Light brings everything into vision, and according to John, that includes our love for each other. When we live in the light like Jesus, with nothing to hide, we will be found blameless in how we love each other. However, if we say we are in the light but are hiding hate in in our hearts, we are really in darkness. Are you living in the light, or in the dark?
The idea of love has may different definitions, because we have our own ideas of what it means. As humans, we are limited to our ability to truly love. But what if God has a version that is not like ours, and is the most important part of our faith journey? 1 Corinthians 13 gives us a clear version of what God’s love is like, and one that we can experience both now and for eternity.
Regrets. We all have them. Some, deeper ones than others. Whether they are large or small, regrets can keep us prisoner to something that is in our past while God may be calling us to something new in our future. In this message, we will learn from the Apostle Paul and how he dealt with a major regret in his life. Did he hold on, or did he repent and allow God to show him a new path forward?
In with the new with our new series Out with the Old! We start the New Year off with a BANG as we make a New Year’s resolution together going through Mark 2:18-22. But instead of making the usual to-do list of goals, today we begin the year by changing our perspective. Why do we want to change something about ourselves every year? And why is this impulse shared by everyone? Join Kurt as he brings us our message this Sunday.
Ahhhh, the turning of another year. The turning of the calendar offers hope of new things to come. Because of that, so many people make resolutions to make big changes. However, so many don't follow through with them. What if 2024 was different? What if, this year, you resolve to seek wisdom in your life? Imagine what a year of searching, learning, and engaging the wisdom from the Bible would look like one year from now. What would exploring Biblical wisdom cause you to change in your life?
For hundreds of years, God had been silent. Israel was waiting for the promised Messiah to come. Finally, the time arrived. Angels announced Him, shepherds came to see Him, and magi came to worship Him. The Messiah was here, but Israel was looking for the wrong thing. They wanted a king that was a powerful warrior and leader. Instead, the Messiah came as a humble servant, who would die so His people could live. So many of us miss the true Jesus all these years later. This Christmas, are you searching for the true King, or are you looking in the wrong direction?
When told that she was going to be the mother of the Son of God, Mary rushes to her cousin Elizabeth’s house to find her 6 months pregnant, just like the angel had said. Elizabeth is overcome by the Holy Spirit and blesses Mary and confirms the angel’s announcement. Mary responds with a song that worships God, speaks of His works in the past, and what the ministry of her son will be in the future. God’s use of a humble, ordinary person for extraordinary things once again shows us how the kingdom of God flips the world’s value system upside down.
Nativity scenes are everywhere in the Christmas season. We see a smiling, reverent Mary looking down at her new born son, while Joseph and animals look on. What we fail to recognize, is how Mary responds to the calling God gave her to be the mother of God’s son. This calling was not safe, secure, or known. On top of that, it would require more bravery and obedience then we could imagine. How will this no-name, young Jewish virgin respond to the call God had on her life?
We’ve all seen the Christmas classic, A Christmas Carol. We know how it goes – old miser Scrooge refuses to help others, and has used his life to collect as much wealth as he can for himself. In the process he lost who he really was and his love of Christmas. We see him as such a villain…but if we are honest, we have some of the same tendencies. Greed creeps into lives in different ways and betrays us, giving us a false sense of control. We want to have all our needs met by our own doing, because that gives us safety. However, Jesus has instructed us to be calm and trust God for his daily provision. Greed and thankfulness are in opposition to each other in our hearts, who is going to wini?
This week, as we continue our series Seven Words to the Church Today, we visit the Church of Laodicea and Jesus’ letter to them in the book of Revelation. This church had a problem being pleasing to Jesus, and it has everything to do with their connection to Him. Is this a problem that we have today? Find out as we look at this letter together…
We live in a world that constantly demands our attention and tempts us to fixate on the immediate. So it’s not surprising then that as followers of Jesus it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters most in life. Drawing from the example of the unwavering faith of the Philadelphian believers in Revelation 3, we explore the timeless wisdom that ultimately helped to anchor their faith in the moment—focusing on the authority of Christ, the imminence of His return, and the promise of eternal riches. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the keys to an enduring, future-focused faith.
The church in Sardis had quite the reputation. They were known for doing amazing things, but Jesus saw otherwise. He saw them for who they truly were, and they were dying spiritually. To turn it around, the church would need to repent and a return back to being guided by the Holy Spirit. How can this stern warning from Jesus to the church in Sardis help us to place our love and focus where it truly belongs?
As we continue on our journey through the Seven Letters to the Church in Revelation, we come across a church that struggled with tolerating an idolatrous, false teacher to influence them away from Jesus: The Church of Thyatira. In this sermon, Kurt will discuss the problem of tolerating false teaching and how to avoid false teaching in our lives
The church of Pergamum was in the middle of a wicked, godless city. With sin all around, the church has endured persecution and has remained faithful. However, some believers were beginning to adapt a high-bred faith of culture and Christianity. Jesus has harsh words, and yet encouragement to the church: repent and remember that the victors inherit eternity. Can the American church relate to the failings of Pergamum?
The church in Smyrna was in trouble. They were being persecuted, afflicted, and were pushed into poverty for following Jesus. With their backs against the wall, Jesus gives a comforting statement…I SEE YOU. His command to the church to stand strong through it all offers them a great peace to know they are not alone. How can this letter to a church thousands of years ago help to shape and guide us today?
The book of Revelation can be a confusing, jaw-dropping, even divisive book of the Bible. However, when you dig in and start to understand what is being said, it is a book of great joy and peace as we look to the future and see that God wins. Before anything is shared about the future, Jesus begins by having John write down instruction for the seven churches in Asia. Ephesus is first with clear direction from the Lord – you are DOING everything right but you have lost your first love. How does this warning impact the modern church today?
The meaning of life is a question that many people have spent their lives trying to answer. All sorts of answers to that question are at the tips of our fingers in the information age. But this poses a problem: What is the real answer.This Sunday, we explore the answer that God has given us in Scripture. What does God's meaning for all of man? For the Church? For me?
It would appear by how Christians act and talk sometimes, that God has a limit to who He loves. We’ve all seen the angry guy yelling on the corner, or the “truth -slinging” on social media about some religious topic. Then, we evaluate our life and how it matches up with others, and we start to believe there is no way God could love us. But, what is true about God? Does he really love all people without limits, or does He love people based on how we live our lives? To find that answer, we have to dig into the character of God to find out who He is.
If God is good, why does he allow so many bad things to happen? If He is all powerful and all loving, wouldn’t He stop bad things from happening? In the midst of pain and suffering, these questions and more flood our hearts and minds. Knowing and believing that God is good is the beginning. Now, we must change our perspective to see life through God’s story to help us embrace Gods goodness and mercy in the midst of a broken and fallen world.
The big question of the day, is God good? If so, how can we know? The question itself is problematic, because we are asking the wrong thing. What if we redirect our question to explore what God has done to show humanity that He is good? In Mark 10:17-31, we see a time where Jesus defines goodness for us, and then proceeds to show us that God isn’t just good, He is the definition of it.
Each day, thousands of words come out of our mouths and are typed with our hands. Often, our words are simple or explanatory in nature. Sometimes our words are used to love and encourage others. But then, there are times our words are hurtful, damaging, or lies. The 9th Commandment makes it clear that our words are powerful, and they may never be used to spread false truths about others. James is in his letter shares that tongues are such small, powerful tools that are full of poison. Why is it that we feel that we can use our words to hurt others? It’s quite easy actually…when our words are broken, we are broken. God is commanding His people to use their words to speak life, not to lie and damage others.
The popularity of heist movies shows the glorification of theft in our society. This is in stark contrast to God's insistence that we do not steal in the 8th commandment. But does this commandment effect most of us in society? Not only that, but is God satisfied in us merely not taking from others or is there a higher bar for those of us now in Christ?
The 7th commandment makes it clear we are to not commit adultery. However, its so much deeper than an extra-marital relationship. Jesus expounds on the commandment by teaching us that even looking at someone lustfully is adultery, and we are all guilty. Lust is a sin that is planted in the heart, and when watered leads to terrible outcomes. How can we stop this epidemic of sexual sin in our lives and the life of the church?
Our culture has become desensitized to violence as it floods our entertainment, our news, and our lives. So much so, that by the time a child is 18, they will witness over 200,000 acts of violence on TV. In the 6th commandment, God has ordered His people to not murder. Why is it that we are so complacent at viewing and accepting violence? Perhaps the issue is deeper then we know. Jesus in Matthew 5:20-21 will help us to uncover the root problem that starts not with our actions, but in our hearts.
The fifth commandment states: "Honor your father and your mother." For many this can be a difficult command to swallow, especially if your parents have caused us harm or pain. In other words, how do we honor those who we feel might not deserve it? Thankfully God's word is not silent on the matter, and it offers us practical insight into how to live out the fifth commandment in the everyday stuff of life.
Intro Ten Words | Part 4: The 4th Commandment - Remember the Sabbath | Nick Jonckowski by Mosaic Church
God makes a very clear command for His people…do NOT misuse my name. God’s name is his reputation and a representation of who He is, and it should be spoken with great reverence and honor. However, we use God’s name now in punchlines and texts when we are upset. We use His name as a curse, along with wrongfully swearing on His name to prove a point. How can we change this and bring back proper honor and fear when we speak, type, or text His name?
In the 1st commandment, God instructs His people that they were to have no other gods before, or besides, Him. In the 2nd commandment, God now instructs that there are to be no idols created or worshipped. Coming from the Egyptian culture, this commandment would make sense as they all came from a multi-god society. However, we don’t see many people today having statues in our homes we worship. Is it possible we still have idols in our lives that take our adoration and attention away from the one true God?
The roaming Israelites have seen miracle after miracle from God after their rescue from Egypt. He has set them apart as His people, and is instructing them on how to live. With thunder, lightning, fire and smoke, God has come to give them 10 clear commandments on how to live. The first sets the tone for all of them…the God who saved them has no equal.
How to Read the Bible | Part 4: Skinny Jeans and Hypocrisy | Nick Jonckowski by Mosaic Church
If we are honest, the Old Testament can be confusing. Rituals, rules, wars…what does this have to do with modern day Christians? Didn’t Jesus change everything when He came? We will find that Jesus taught us a very important principle when it came to the Old Testament that we often miss. His perspective will change the way we see and engage the scriptures.
Humans have been asking the same question since the beginning…how can we truly know God? If God is a spirit, how can we know what He is like? God has revealed Himself to us several different ways, with the spotlight on Jesus. Jesus, being the “Word of God,” clearly shows us who the Father is. If we read and study the Bible correctly, it will not only inform us but transform us God reveals himself to us through the scriptures.
Paul instructs the church in Corinth and all of us today that when we follow Christ, the old way of living is gone and a new way has come. However, we often try to hold on to our old way our life causing so many problems. New creations are called to exactly that…something new. So what exactly does a new life look like? We find in Ephesians 4:17-32 a clear picture of what Paul is saying. A new life with Christ looks opposite of the life the world and human nature is drawing us towards.
New Creation | Part 3: A Privilege and a Responsibility | Dawn Jonckowski by Mosaic Church
So many people drift through life focused on what is before them. Some of those things are wonderful, while others are selfish and self-serving. But for the most part, we rarely consider that what we are doing today impacts our future in heaven. 2 Corinthians reminds us that we all are going to be accountable for how we lived our lives. For non-believers, the judgement will be through the lens of their sin. For believers, Jesus will judge and reward His children with what they did with their lives. When you are before Jesus, what will He say to you?
Our faith journey has a tension. Our experiences have shaped and skewed the way we view God, but often times they are not the truth. We find in the Bible, that regardless of our experiences, we are called to change our lives to give our life fully to the Lord and His new way of living. When we become these “New Creations,” we have a completely new perspective and focus, and that includes our place in eternity. As new creations, we find that as we get closer to the Lord we focus on our heavenly dwelling instead of what the world has to offer. Could this simple new perspective be a marker for where we are on our spiritual journey?
Have you ever done something absolutely terrible to someone? The aftermath of that moment brings so much pain and destruction, and results in broken people and broken relationships. What about when someone does something terrible to Jesus? In some of His final moments on earth, we see Him interact with His friend and disciple after he had left and betrayed Him during his torture and crucifixion. Jesus uses this opportunity to not only forgive his friend, but restore his purpose.
The Final Words | Part3: A Higher Purpose | Nick Jonckowski | Associate Pastor by Mosaic Church
Ever feel like the “weight of the world” is on your shoulders? In those moments, how do you respond? Most of us respond with high levels of stress that leads to not very good character. Jesus had eternal life for all of humanity on His shoulders as He hung on the cross. How did He respond in this moment? He forgave those who were murdering Him and saved the “unsavable.”
As Jesus was heading into His last moments on earth, He pauses to spend time with God in prayer. In John 17, we find Him praying for his disciples, and the believers who would come after them. He did not pray to keep them safe from hardships, build big churches, or even to become great communicators. Instead, He asks His Father to unify all his followers with the same closeness that He and God had. Somewhere along the way, Christians have lost this and have become deeply divided. What if the answer for unity among believers is right there in Jesus’ prayer?
As Genesis rolls on, we see God’s people once again in a mess. Jacob, who is now carrying the promise of God that he would make a great nation through Abraham has a problem. He learns that his daughter Dinah has been forcibly raped by a prince from a neighboring city in Canaan, and now they want her to marry him. Jacob’s sons are outraged by this and take matters into their own hands. How is God going to keep His covenant going when there is consistent sin and strife with His people?
In Genesis 27 we find Abraham’s son Isaac now as an old man with two sons. These sons, however, have been rivals since they were in the womb. Isaac is looking to pass on the blessings he received from his father to his oldest son Esau, but Jacob steals the blessing from his brother. How can God fulfill the promise He made to Abraham to be made into a great people with all of this sin and trickery in his grandsons?
Has someone ever given you something that you've been wanting for a really, really long time? How would you feel if after a little bit, they asked for it back? Abraham faces this very thing in Genesis 22 when God tests his faith regarding his promised son Isaac. God has already proven to Abraham over and over that He keeps His promises. So in this critical moment, Abraham has to decide: Does he trust the promise, or the Promiser?
Here we are again. Sin is once again running rampant, and Abrahams nephew Lot is right in the middle of it. God’s judgement is going to come down on Sodom and Gomorrah, but God offers His mercy if two of His angels can find 10 righteous people. Will God withhold His holy wrath and spare the city, or will sin once again need to be judged?
Over the course of our lives, we have lied and been lied to…a lot. So much so, we often find it hard to believe someone when the promise something to you. “I’ll call you tonight,” but don’t. “I’ll help you move this Saturday,” but never show up. All these lies and let downs can be projected towards God as well. Does he ever change his mind on a promise? Will He keep His word and really follow through, even when things seem impossible? God’s promise to Abram can give us assurance that He is not like everyone else. God always keeps His promises.
After the Garden of Eden, as humanity spread sin came with them. In fact, sin and violence became so out of control that the Creator God grieved that He had made humans. Justice for evil meant one thing…death. As God planned to flood the earth and destroy everything made, He saw one righteous man to save. With an ark, he spared Noah, his family, and 2 of every animal. These survivors were to multiply and repopulate the earth, but there was still a problem…sin came with them.
In the beginning, everything was perfect. Adam and Eve walked and talked with God, and all of creation we perfect. Then, Satan enters the scene and confronts Eve about God’s boundaries using some very cleaver tactics. With questioning God and His intentions for them, Eve started to believe a lie. That one event because a cascade of sin that has been tearing our world and our lives apart. If this is our reality, what can we do to not fall for the same lies today?
There is something special about New Years Day. It is a fresh beginning of what could come and what could be. However, we also do not know what difficulties that may be ahead. We never would have thought that New Years Eve 2019 would bring us one of the hardest years ever. And now, in the aftermath, our world has changed and may never be the same again. This has brought so much fear, anxiety and pain…what should we expect as we face 2023? This year, we are asking God to bring His peace. In Philippians 4, we see the perfect answer on how we can find peace, even if the new year brings us more chaos. It may be a new year, but we have nothing to fear because we have the same God.
Back in Genesis, we see a problem emerge. Sin has caused a cascade of problems. One of the largest, is that God has had to separate Himself from His creation. This gap cannot be fixed by humans. Only God could make things right and fix the broken relationship. But how would God, who is holy and separated from his sinful children do it? Christmas marks the day that everything was in motion, and it started with a baby in a manger. This is the beginning of God healing what was broken, and is once again among us.
Our modern world has made searching for the perfect Christmas gift so easy. One click, and we can have that treasure at our door in a few days. Would we have the same perspective of giving gifts if it required a huge investment of time and resources? The Magi over 2,000 years ago started a journey to seek the Jewish Messiah that was promised in a prophesy. Their trip would come at a cost, but nothing would compare to be able to meet Jesus face to face. They were searching for the Savior, and because they were looking…they found Him. Are you searching for the Messiah this Christmas, or cheap imitations that leave you looking and wanting more?
Our Christmas wish lists have changed from the time we were kids. Instead of toys and games, we now dream of what a better life would look like. We wish for a life that gives us security, peace, and hope. In 1 Thessalonians 4, we see such an assurance from the author Paul. He addresses the topic of death, and the assurance we can have in knowing that Christ Jesus is coming again. Jesus’ immanent return will be for all of His followers, both dead and alive. Those is Jesus can now rest assured that whether we die before His return or live to see it, we can now know that there is life after death with Him.
Remember preparing for Christmas as a kid? We would spend hours thinking through our wish list, circling and deciding what would make the perfect gift. As adults, we rarely take the time to think about we would really want. Not in regards to Christmas gifts, but what we really want to have in our lives. If we had a wish list about what we hoped God would provide for us, what would it be? In John 10:1-18, we find that Jesus is offering all of His followers a perfect gift: a leader who loves and cares for them.
Church attendance across America is on the decline. As people move away from Sunday gatherings, something huge is changing. God created the church for His children to love and care for each other. However, can that be done if we are not prioritizing gathering together? Our individualistic way of thinking is breaking down the beauty of the local church….we are made for each other.
Have you ever prayed for help in difficult or trying circumstances, only to never have it actually materialize in your life? Those unanswered prayers, or the deliverance that never seems to arrive on schedule, can create more questions than answers about the faithfulness of God. More often than not we're left to wonder whether God cares for us, or whether we can truly trust Him when life hurts. Thankfully the ancient book of Psalms offers us some modern day insight into the confidence and trust we can place in God in every situation...even when life hurts.
Since the time we were born, we have been in the process of learning how to be independent. We have learned how to provide for ourselves, take care of ourselves, even how to take care of others. Though this is a good thing, we can forget a key factor: that everything we have is from God. Are we really as self-sufficient as we believe, or can our perspective be skewed because of our culture? The story of the Israelites in Exodus 16 brings a new a fresh perspective of God’s provision for His people.
We've all fallen into the trap of thinking that if we just follow a specific checklist, we're doing the right stuff to make God happy. The New Testament church in Galatia was no different, adding laws on top of salvation. Fortunately, God knew that we'd want to try to prove salvation with rules instead of faith. Hear what Paul shares about living in true freedom with Christ and what kind of fruit that produces in our lives.
Halloween is the one time of year when its socially acceptable to for adults to dress up on costume to assume a new identity. But does a change of costume really alter our identity? Of course not! But through our justification by faith in Christ, we're recipients of a new identity that does not change. In Galatians 4. the Apostle Paul powerfully demonstrates why or identity in Christ is vastly superior to any identity we can find in the world around us. Our identity in Christ frees us from seeking our identity in ourselves!
Paul continues to make His case to the churches in Galatia that we are saved by faith in Jesus, not by our good works. In chapter 2, he is using the concept of how we are justified to God because of what Jesus has done, but what really is justification? Is it a big theological word and idea, or a concept that is vital to understand the gospel and our journey with God?
As Christianity spread, tensions were rising between people who gave their lives to Christ. The Jewish people wanted the non-Jewish converts to follow Jesus, AND Jewish customs, including following the Old Testament law. Paul points out that Christ followers have received the Holy Spirit by faith in Him, not by works or what Law they followed. If believers had to do both, it would mean they would have to pay back Jesus for the salvation He has offered. Do you think we could pay him back for all of the sin we have committed?
Paul had to address a major issue in the Galatian churches he had started: they were beginning to believe a different gospel then what Paul had taught them. The people were starting to blend Judaism with Christianity, which meant they needed good works to be saved. This was causing confusion and was not what Jesus had taught then when He was on the earth. Salvation is offered purely on the grace of God, not on the merit or works of humans. Works based religion still bleeds into our culture today causing confusion and a false hope. What is the true gospel and how do we know it when we see it?
Cancel culture is not a new thing. People have always had ways of suppressing the voices and actions of people that they disagree with. In fact, American Christianity has its own culture and uses platforms to express its displeasure with the world. Is that what Christ as called His followers to? Debating, disagreeing, and making sure the world knows what is right and wrong? In Titus 3 we will find that Paul has some clear direction for the Christians of his day that rings true in our culture: Jesus calls us to remake ourselves, not the world around us.--
Cancel Culture | Part 3: Confession in Our Cancel Culture | Nick Joncowski by Mosaic Church
The church has been notoriously bad at dealing with sin. We tend to point fingers, or ignore wrong living all together. Paul has strong words in 1 Corinthians 5 for those who are in the church and living sinful lives without remorse – removal from the family. But is Paul calling the church to cancel people who won’t repent, or guide them to repentance?
Because of our experiences, we all have different definitions of love. Is the feeling of sweaty palms and rapid heartbeat when your crush walks in the room? Is it the love of a parent as they hold their newborn? Perhaps it is the great pain, great betrayal, and great loss of broken love. Our experiences cloud our perception of love, but the Bible makes it clear. Love is not what we think or feel, it is found in the very action of God to save humanity through Jesus. Love is sacrifice.
Because of our experiences, we all have different definitions of love. Is the feeling of sweaty palms and rapid heartbeat when your crush walks in the room? Is it the love of a parent as they hold their newborn? Perhaps it is the great pain, great betrayal, and great loss of broken love. Our experiences cloud our perception of love, but the Bible makes it clear. Love is not what we think or feel, it is found in the very action of God to save humanity through Jesus. Love is sacrifice.
Everyday we bump into barriers that can limit our ability to share the Gospel with others. Sometimes those barriers can be people’s opinions of us, our politics, religious norms, or even pop culture. So how do we become Christ followers who break through barriers to share the love of God with everyone everywhere? In Mathew 9, we discover a story about Jesus breaking through ancient barriers, that will give us insight into becoming modern day barrier busters to share the Gospel in every situation. --
Because of our experiences, we all have different definitions of love. Is the feeling of sweaty palms and rapid heartbeat when your crush walks in the room? Is it the love of a parent as they hold their newborn? Perhaps it is the great pain, great betrayal, and great loss of broken love. Our experiences cloud our perception of love, but the Bible makes it clear. Love is not what we think or feel, it is found in the very action of God to save humanity through Jesus. Love is sacrifice.
Because of our experiences, we all have different definitions of love. Is the feeling of sweaty palms and rapid heartbeat when your crush walks in the room? Is it the love of a parent as they hold their newborn? Perhaps it is the great pain, great betrayal, and great loss of broken love. Our experiences cloud our perception of love, but the Bible makes it clear. Love is not what we think or feel, it is found in the very action of God to save humanity through Jesus. Love is sacrifice.
This is Our Community | Part 4: The power of Biblical Empathy | Nick Jonckowski by Mosaic Church
This is Our Community | Part 3: Purpose in Every Place | Nick Jonckowski by Mosaic Church
As humans. we all have the tendency to compare our gifts and talents with others. And at church, it's no different. We compare ourselves to other believers' gifts and talents. But when we do so, we end up focusing on the wrong thing: ourselves. In Romans, Paul reminds us that we're all pieces of a bigger puzzle and no piece is more important than the other. In fact, every believer has a unique and valuable role to play in accomplishing the mission of Jesus Christ.
Often times in life, we do a good job of waying out options before we make a decision. Is my car worth that large repair bill, or should I buy a new one? Can we afford the mortgage on that new home? What steps can we take to make sure we have enough to live on in retirement? We are diligent to think through those scenarios, but perhaps never thought through this one: what does it cost me to be a disciple of Jesus? Jesus offers two parables that makes it very clear. To be His disciple, it will cost you everything.
We’ve all had that moment. When we frantically scramble to find something we lost. The fear of not finding a wallet. The frustration over a lost set of keys. From big to small, losing something causes a level of stress and fear that can last moments, to forever if the item is never found. In Luke 15, Jesus begins teaching a crowd of people how God feels about His children that are lost to sin. The religious people of the day despised the lost, broken people because they are beneath them. Jesus gives a different perspective…God sent Him to seek and save the lost.
Procrastination. We all struggle with it to varying degrees. Whether we put off mowing the lawn or we delay studying for a big test. However, there’s one area of our lives where procrastination can have a BIG effect that very few of us ever think about…our spiritual lives. When we procrastinate in seeking to grow closer to God it not only hurts us, but others as well. Thankfully we’re not the first people to struggle with this issue. The people in Jesus’ day did as well. In fact, in Luke 13 Jesus told a parable about an unusual fig tree to help illustrate why we may not have the time to procrastinate in our spiritual lives like we think we do!
How do you measure success in life? We all have a metric by which we tend to measure our success, whether we consciously acknowledge it or not. We live in a world that constantly advertises the idea that success is defined by our material possessions. But often times we wrestle with striking a balance between owning our stuff and our stuff owning us. The parable of the rich fool in Luke 12 gives us valuable insights into what true wealth is in God's eyes.
The once dominant Israelite army, led by military superstar Joshua, hits a wall and suffers a great loss. Was it the wrong strategy? Was it a lack of supplies or soldiers? Joshua is confused by this sudden loss knowing God had been leading and winning for them. The answer was revealed…there is a villain and sin in the camp. Someone had broken the covenant with God and now God has turned His back on them. Does sin, even the small insignificant ones really impact us that much?
When we stop to think, we did a lot of things in our youth that…well, to put it plainly, were not the wisest of choices. In most of these stories we were not alone. Was it our bad ideas, the ideas of our friends, or some mix of both? The scripture warns us about the company we keep, and how it can lead to our demise. Is it possible that we are allowing villains in our lives that is causing pain and destruction? If so, what can we do to recognize these toxic relationships and how do we respond?
In the movies, the unexpected villain is the bad guy we never see coming. They're the unassuming friend, sidekick, or love interest that's been pulling the strings behind the scenes the whole time. The truth is we all have unexpected villains in our lives. People who we thought we on our team that have unexpectedly blindsided us. But what happens when those people also happen to be Christians? The story of Cain and Abel from the book of Genesis reveals some surprising insights into how we can avoid the unexpected villain, and points us to a even great Hero.
In the movies, it is often easy to identify the villains. They have a mission to accomplish that is in direct opposition of the heroes. However, have you ever wondered if the villains really think they are the bad guys? Maybe in their mind, they are justified to accomplish a larger goal. Enter humans into God’s story, where we identify as the good guys. However, scripture gives us a different view. Is it possible we are part of the villains team and we don’t even know it?
Their Rabbi was dead. All seemed lost. Dejected and afraid, the disciples thought everything was over after Friday. But when they went to the tomb on Sunday, they found it was empty. The word was spreading he wasn’t there but everyone had their doubts. It wasn’t until 2 men on their way to Emmaus had an encounter with the living Jesus did it all click. Jesus had risen from the dead and really is the one sent by God to save the world.
If you knew you had 24 hours left to live, what would you do? Would you call your family and friends, knock things off your bucket list, or spend all your money on one last experience? Jesus, knowing that the cross and the weight of sin was coming did something we wouldn't think of...he prayed. A lot.
His example challenges us and gives us a clear view of what matters most in times of trouble and pain...trusting in the plan of our God.
The voices cried out worship to God and the crowds dropped their cloaks to the ground. The new coming king was on a colt on his way into the capital of Israel as the crowds pushed around Him. Israel was going to be freed and the king has come. However, this triumphant entry would be short lived. Jesus was rightfully recognized as the coming king, but it wasn’t what Israel was looking for. His entry into Jerusalem would lead Him to the only way he could save His people…the cross.
As we come to a close in the book of Daniel, we see in chapter 12 a prophecy of what comes when God begins the end of days. We see a major theme emerge: there will be great suffering in those days for the people of Israel. However, in the text we see an even greater hope…God is sovereign over the present as well as the future. He has promised that the dead will rise again, and for those who have called on God to save them there will be eternal life with Him. For those who don’t, eternal separation in hell. What side of eternity will you stand on?
Are you feeling a little on edge with all that’s happening in our world today? With so much talk of war, pandemics, and political corruption, it’s not surprising that most of us are feeling more that just a little weighed down by our fears and anxieties. Much like us, the Old Testament prophet Daniel also received some terrifying news from God about future world events. Even still, Daniel was able to maintain a perspective that gave him unshakable hope in the midst of chaotic world events. Just like Daniel, we can have that hope too!
We are all loyal to something. Sports teams, brands, family…the list can go on and on. What we find in chapter 6 is that Daniel has an undying loyalty to one thing – the one true God. With death on the line if he prays to God, he wasn’t fazed. He headed back to his room, and prayed like he always did by praising God. The threat of being devoured by lions didn’t stop his devotion to the Lord, nor should it ours. What step can we take today to grow this type of faith and loyalty to the Lord God almighty?
What have you been boasting about recently? Maybe it’s your favorite sports team, your job, a house, or even a vacation. The truth is that most all of us boast about something. But the story of Daniel 5 teaches us that God doesn’t mess around with our sinful pride, and neither should we. In fact if we’re going to boast at all, we should boast in Christ alone.
Imagine this...there is a nation that believes that they are the greatest to ever live. The leaders believe that they rule the world because of their dominance and ability to take over anyone. Soon, the people turn inward with pride and turn away from God. Sounds a bit close to home, doesn't it? In Daniel 4, we see the same problem unfolding for Babylon. However, the king is given a dream and a warning from God: keep going this way, and you will be taken off your throne. Repent, and ruin will not come. This passage written thousands of years ago gives us a perspective today...God is sovereign over everyone and only His kingdom will rule forever.
We've all heard the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego being thrown into the fiery furnace because they refused to worship King Nebuchadnezzar's golden image. But what gave them the incredible courage and confidence to stand before the king and proclaim that God would save them, but even if He did not, they would not bow down to another god? Find out how their experience can help you practice confidence in knowing that God will be with us in the fire, no matter what.
Daniel and his friends are in trouble once again. The king of Babylon as demanded a dream he had be described and interpreted to him, but his is counsel of wisemen could not do it. This angered the king and he ordered all of the wisemen to be killed, which included Daniel even though he wasn't there. Daniel asked for time, and then asks God for the interpretation of the dream. God gives it to him and not only is his life saved, a message of prophecy is revealed...earth's superpowers will fall but God's kingdom will last forever.
Imagine this…you are a teenager and you are captured as part of the spoils of war. You are taken to a foreign land and forced to work in the government. You and your friends are renamed and forced to accept the new culture. However, you refuse to compromise your faith and stand firm to the ways of God. The life of Daniel will encourage and challenge us to never give up our adherence to God’s ways. His life, along with his friends, will show us that regardless of the situation, God is still in control.
Saying “thoughts and prayers” or posting praying hands emojis are our way of letting others know that we're praying for them. But saying we're praying for someone and actually praying for them are two very different things. The former is easy, while the latter, sometimes, not so much. Knowing specifically how or what to pray for someone can be challenging. Thankfully in Ephesians 3 the Apostle Paul models for us how to pray prayers for others that are practical, theologically correct, and most importantly have an eternal impact.
We all experience seasons of suffering in life. When life hurts it can be difficult to know exactly what or how to pray. Do we quote Bible verses? Do we pray for pray for strength to persevere or deliverance from our circumstances? In 2 Corinthians the Apostle Paul shares and incredible promise of hope for suffering, and models for us how to pray with purpose in suffering.
In Ephesians 1, Paul shares how he has been praying for the church in Ephesus. However, his prayer is not how we usually pray for believers today. Instead, Paul's pure passion comes out...people getting saved through the gospel of Christ. This perspective gives us a guide of how we can be praying for the global and local church, which may be quite different than what you would think.
"Who would like to pray?" We've all been there, right? Sitting in awkward silence when someone has asks us to pray. Why is it that prayer often feels so unnatural and uncomfortable? In 1 Corinthians 1:4-9 we see Paul's worldview was one of gratitude for all that God had done and would do in Jesus. This influenced not only his prayer life, but his love and focus on the gospel. When we adopt a similar perspective we can begin to see prayer as a privilege rather than a chore.
Preparing for Christmas takes so much time. The lights, the gifts, the parties…it is months of preparation before POOF-it’s done. Some Christian faiths extend the Christmas celebration to February 2nd which marks 40 days after Jesus was born. This significant date correlates with Luke 2:22-35 when Mary and Joseph brought baby Jesus for the proper Jewish ceremonies of a new baby. But when there, a man named Simeon offered a whole new perspective. This child, the Messiah of God, wasn’t here just for Israel. He is going to save the entire world.--
There is nothing like coming home for Christmas. The traditions, the smells, the food...everything feels "just right." When we are away from home, Christmas just doesn't feel the same. Something we rarely think about is that at Christmas, Jesus left His home to bring us back home. The manger was the beginning of the story of God to save the world through the cross. And because of the cross, we can be back home with God where we belong. Is God calling you home this Christmas season?
As parents and family members, we all want to keep the little ones in our family safe. In fact, there is an entire industry based on keeping babies and children safe from the dangers of the world. However, that is not how Jesus came. The Son of God came into an unsafe world, into unsafe conditions, to come as a lowly servant of all. He came to show us how we are to live...which wasn't to be safe and to focus on ourselves. His example was to serve and give our lives for others...just like the King in the manger.
When was the last time you stopped to behold someone or something? Probably not recently. The term "behold" has fallen out of favor in popular language. But nonetheless, the book of Matthew beckons us to behold, to look with surprise, at the nativity. To come and see with fresh eyes the Christmas story, and witness a tyrant king and magi-wizards respond to the heralding of Christ's arrival. If we truly behold, as Matthew implores us to do, we'll discover how the Christmas story challenges all of us to respond to King Jesus . . . one way or another. Listen to Pastor Nick Jonckowski's sermon, Behold!, available now on all streaming platforms.
For centuries, the Jewish people had been given prophesies that spoke of a Messiah that was to come. Many were looking for the prophesy that came from the mouth of a gentile: “A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.” And now, a star had appeared over Bethlehem. The Magi saw the say and responded by taking a long journey to meet this new King. However, not everyone had the same response. The time had come, the one who was to save the world was born.
In Exodus, God commanded the people of Israel to build a Tabernacle where He would dwell. The materials for construction were to come from the community, if they were WILLLING to give. The people were so generous, that Moses had to tell the people to stop giving...they had too much! How can we grow our hearts of thankfulness so that we can be that generous to impact our community and the world with the gospel?
It’s easy to give thanks when life is, well, easy. But what about when life get difficult? What will we give thanks for then. The Bible teaches that as believers we can give thanks in every circumstance, even when life hurts.
When we stop to think, we have so much in our lives that we take for granted. Running water, food in a grocery store, friends and family...the list goes on and on. Then there are the blessings from God, answered prayers, and His daily provision for us all. So often we move throughout our day, forgetting that everything comes from Him. In Luke 17, we see such an account as Jesus heals 10 men with shocking results of their thankfulness. What can we learn from this account and build an attitude of gratitude in our lives?
What does it mean to be hospitable? For most of us we imagine hospitality as gourmet menus, exquisite table settings, or an immaculate home. In Luke 14 Jesus uses an encounter with the Pharisees, who had their own ideas about what it meant to be hospitable, to teach them and us what true Biblical hospitality looks like in God’s Kingdom.
Sometimes it’s difficult to love people we encounter online. More times than not we’re tempted to react to our digital neighbors out of frustration or animosity rather than care and empathy. Through the parable of the Good Samaritan we discover a timeless truth about what it means to be a neighbor in God’s kingdom, that in-turn give us practical wisdom on how to love our digital neighbor well.
You SHOULD love your neighbor? Or you SHALL love your neighbor? The difference between "should" and "shall" might seem minuscule at first, but according to Jesus a lot rests on the difference between those two words. "Should" gives us an option to love our neighbors. Where as "shall" is a commandment to love. How can Jesus' powerful statement about the greatest commandment transform your view of those who live around us?
Our work has a significant place in our lives, whether it is in our home, in our community, or in a profession. So much so, that "what we do" is often a first topic when we meet someone new. However, have you ever thought that your work is a frontline for discipling others? Our effort, our attitude, our interactions and more speak volumes to the world of what it looks like to follow Jesus. How can we change our perspective from simply doing a "job," to having a daily opportunity to disciple others?
The word discipleship has been deeply explored over the past 20 years. Is it going to church on Sunday? Is it Bible studies, coffee dates, or being a good neighbor? Is it being part of a small group, volunteer coaching for your son's soccer team...or are we missing it all together? This series opener will take us back to when Jesus called his disciples, and what He asked them to be and do. Perhaps our best definition will require us to return to the roots that Jesus established over 2000 years ago.
In the book of Matthew we see Jesus approaching John the Baptist to be baptized. John's response...NO WAY! You need to baptize me! But Jesus insists, as it must be done. But why did Jesus get baptized, and how does that influence us today? How does baptism impact our spiritual lives and our hope in the gospel?
Can you really trust God is in control when life seems to be spinning out of control? The ancient Israelites faced a similar question as they stood in the ruin and rumble of their destroyed capital city. And yet through it all, they were able to boldly proclaim the sovereignty of God through the words of Psalm 99. What gave them assurance of God’s absolute supremacy when their lives were literally crumbling around them? As Psalm 99 makes clear, it’s the very same thing that gives us hope when we’re facing doubt and uncertainty as well.
At times, it feels like evil is always winning. We are surrounded by wars, calamity, pain and death. This was true for the Psalmist as well. Psalm 94 reminds us that the very things which look to destroy our faith and produce despair can be turned into an opportunity for worship and praise. Even thought the days seem dark, do we trust that God has got this?
The 91st Psalm brings great relief to the reader- God is our refuge. He protects us and cares for us, however we are not shielded from pain and suffering. This passage actually promises that God will be with us through all things, and in His care is better than being away from Him. Are you so close to God that you are in His care, or are you far away blaming Him for not protecting you?
In today’s digital age, it can be difficult at times to discern what is real and what is fake news. This is especially the case when it comes to spiritual truth. With so many different podcasts and sermons available to us with the click of a button, how do actually we know who is speaking gospel truth? Thankfully the book of 1 John gives us clear instructions on how to properly discern and over come false spiritual teaching.
We use the word love to describe so many thoughts and emotions. We say we love certain foods, love the home team, love our friends, and love our pets. Then, there are times love results in pain. Someone said they loved us, but turned around and scarred us. With all of these expressions and experiences, the concept of love can be very confusing. What then can we say is love? In 1 John 3:11-16, John takes the teachings and actions of Jesus and makes it abundantly clear to us...and love is not what we think.
Have you ever wondered, "How do I know that I'm saved?" There are some things in life that you want to be really certain about, because so much rides on the outcome. Your salvation is one such issue. So it's natural at times to question the authenticity of your salvation. You don't want to take risk about your eternal destiny. So what evidence, or proof, do we have of our eternal security?
Absolute darkness can be a terrifying thing. We lose our sense of direction, our sense of what is around us, and our sense of safety. We learn in 1 John 1:5-10 that darkness is also a place where we want to hide all of our junk from others and God. For some reason, we believe if we tuck everything away, no one will know about our deep dark sins and secrets. But, that sin eats away at us and destroys us and our relationship with God. To have true fellowship with God, John shares something He learned from Jesus first hand: you must be in the light like He is in the light. Nothing can hide. Are you ready to expose what is hiding in the dark closet of your life?
In our day and age, it is so hard to know what is real. Photoshop changes pictures, news and internet can say anything it wants, and counterfeit looks like the real thing. Even artificial intelligence is beginning to resemble humanity. So how can we know what is real? John addresses this issue 2000 years ago as false teaching about Jesus was running rampant. He can attest to what is real because he has heard, seen, and touched the Lord. He has been taught and transformed by Jesus. He can prove Jesus is who He said He was...because John knows Him. If all of this is true it should change our lives forever. How can we have that type of relationship with Jesus today?
Timothy may have been tempted to grow weary in his vigorous pursuit of righteousness and godly living in the face of opposition from false teachers and worldly desires. Paul’s words were meant to serve as a reminder to Timothy that though the battle is fierce, it is still a “good fight” none-the-less. In doing so he petitions Timothy, and us, to keep our perspective focused on Jesus.
When an athletes are training, they must go through a rigorous routine that prepares the mind and body for what lays ahead. Paul uses this thinking to challenge his readers in Philippians 3: press on with the goal in mind. For Paul, it wasn't about an olympic medal. It was about the prize that waited for him when he was with His Lord Jesus. How can we gain this same perspective, endure the ups and downs of life, and keep focused on what waits for us?
The Apostle Paul’s sports metaphor of a runner competing to win a race serves to highlight the eternal stakes that surround the daily life of every believer. As Christ followers we are not called to live a self-focused life, wander aimlessly, or pursue prizes that are temporary in nature. Instead the Gospel invites us to live each day with a laser like focus on the goal of living a spirit led life that is dedicated to loving others and winning them to faith in Christ.
When Jesus came, he broke down many traditions and ways of thinking that the Jewish people had. The biggest one, was that Gentiles are now family through Him, not through Jewish rituals. This would have been a staggering thought during that time, but when we look at the gospel there could be no other way. Jesus did more than his disciples could ever have imagined. He brought freedom to all people if we are willing to accept His free gift of salvation.
Being in debt is a terrible feeling, especially when we cannot pay someone back. It brings about a sense of fear, frustration, and can lower our self worth. In Ephesians 2:1-10 we learn that we have an outstanding debt that we brought on ourselves because of sin. We also learn that God paid it and there is no way to earn our freedom. On top of that, we become heirs with Jesus and are offered a new identity. How does this new reality alter our lives today?
When we meet people, the inevitable question always comes up: "so what do you do?" That question helps us to learn about that person because we spend so much time working. But does what we do really identify us? If not our jobs, then what does? Scripture shows us that God offers us a new, clear identity for us that shapes our lives and our future.
Over the course of our lives, each person’s identity is formed and shaped through individual experiences, relationships, culture, media and the world around us. But what would it look like to find a stable sense of self apart from our relationships, our successes, and our failures? What would look like to see ourselves the way God sees us? Ephesians 1 offers the key to finding our identity in a source that will never fail us or let us down.
When asked about who our neighbors are and how to love them, Jesus tells a parable that breaks cultural, racial, and economic paradigms. With one story, He commands His followers to love everyone and to go above and beyond for even those deemed "unloveable". His command is clear to His listeners and to us today...GO and DO likewise.
In Luke 14 Jesus had a large crowd following Him. He was popular, and people were following Him for many reasons. To be healed, to hear him teach, to be part of this new movement. However, He turned to them and challenged them to consider what it will cost to be one of His disciples. Have you truly given all you have to be one of His disciples, or simply one following the crowd?
Jesus concludes His sermon on the mountainside by saying if we build our lives on anything but the Kingdom, our foundations will be easily eroded and be washed away when the pain of life comes. But it isn't just learning about it, we actually have to do what He taught. His challenging conclusion brings a truth to light...what we build our life on matters.
(WARNING: POOR AUDIO DUE TO OUTDOOR SERVICE) One of the most misused verses by people both inside and outside the church: "Judge not least ye be judged." In Matthew 7:1-5 Jesus warns us about judging others, but does that mean we shouldn't call out sin? This passage actually offers us a view of the Kingdom and exposes our intentions when we point out other's faults.
Jesus begins to summarize his teaching on the mountainside with a shocking statement...narrow is the road that leads to heaven. This proclamation, along with the idea that many would say they did things for Him but He never knew them would have shaken the crowd. How do we know where we stand with God and we truly know if we enter eternity with Him?
Worry and anxiety have been a growing trend over the past decade. Add the pandemic, and it has now skyrocketed out of control. But at the root of worry is something we find hard to admit--our worry really means we don't believe God will provide. In Matthew 6:35-34 Jesus reminds us that God provides for all of his creation, so why do we question if he will provide for us?
The discussion of possessions and money often makes us tense up. Perhaps a poor upbringing, a need for control, or even the desire for power and acceptance drives our viewpoint. There seems to be something deeply connected to our fixation with money, and Jesus knew it. In this powerful passage in Matthew 6:19-24, we learn that the Kingdom way of seeing our resources is not to hoard, but instead be open handed with everything we have to impact others and eternity.
If we are honest, prayer can be down right confusing at times. Do I have to say certain things? Is there a right way and a wrong way? What if I don't have the right words? Jesus addresses how prayer was happening the wrong way during His time, and offers a simple, new way...prayer is a time to connect with your Daddy.
The disciples and followers of Jesus were crushed...their Lord had been killed. They must have surely thought it was over, and that God lost. As the women reached the tomb and found it empty, they were reminded that Jesus told them he would be killed and rise again. As they ran back to tell the others, a new story was developing...God wins.
The power of the gospel has the ability to transform us and give us a new life and direction. However, so many Christians skip that part and live a life that looks like rest of the world. Paul writes an urgent letter to the church in Ephesus who were struggling with the same thing. We must engage the power of gospel and be transformed if we are to live a life worthy of being identified with Jesus Christ.
Broken, bleeding, weak, and dying. These words bring a picture of pure desperation. In Mark 5 Jesus engaged two women who were suffering and dying and did something amazing...He displayed His power over illness and death. His miracles prove that even death obeys Jesus and gives us all hope for both now and eternity.
How often we forget what God has done to save us from our sin. Then we add more confusion to the mix by trying to earn God's approval, favor, and acceptance. However, that is not the true gospel The beauty the gospel is that we will never be able to measure up, but Jesus has done all the work for us. How does our faith change when we accept God's forgiveness is a free gift based on our need, not our doing.
It is so easy to accept God's blessings and move forward without pausing and worshipping Him. However, we are warned in Deuteronomy to remember Him, even when everything is going well. This special sermon breaks from the series to recognize the unbelievable blessings God has poured on the Mosaic family and the building project. Pause with us as we worship Jehovah Jireh: The Lord Will Provide.
In Jesus' time, many of the religious leaders believed he was faking his miracles and routinely demanded him to prove he was God by producing more signs and wonders. The problem for them, and for us today, is that no matter what God has done or will do, we're always going to struggle with doubt. How can we embrace the hope of the gospel in such a way that we turn from yelling “Prove it!” to God toward “I trust you.”
It doesn’t take much to recognize that our world is broken, and filled with things that we just can’t fix. But where we can’t, Jesus can. The story of the Roman centurion from Matthew 8 reveals not only that Jesus is willing to receive our brokenness, but he’s also more than able to heal it too.
Jesus called his disciples and told them they would have a shift in their purpose: from fishing for fish to fishing for lost, hurting people. When we focus on the gospel, we find our purpose is the same as theirs over 2000 years later. How do we embrace this calling from Jesus and live on mission in our daily lives?
Many people believe that a real relationship with Jesus can change lives. However, so many of us are timid or afraid to even share our faith with our friends. This idea is challenged when we look at four friends who were willing to cut a hole in the roof to get their paralyzed friend to Jesus. Is church meant to be a comfortable place for you, or a place for your community to come in contact with the Savior?
Samson had a special calling on his life. He was set apart by God to lead Israel and bring them back to Him. However, he over and over again rejected that calling, choosing his ways over the Lords. In the end, the aftermath of sin his led to his ultimate destruction. How can we avoid the same fate and fulfill our calling before it is too late?
We’ve all been in situations where we’ve wanted to get even when someone hurts us. We want revenge. However, in those moments God has a better way. The story of Samson reveals how we can choose to do right when we’ve been wronged.
Have you ever prayed and prayed for something only to feel like God isn't listening to you? In 2 Corinthians, Paul shares how he had been praying over and over, for God to say "no." God's response gave Paul and all of us a new perspective on prayer: in our weakest place we are strongest when we fully rely on the Lord. How can we look at prayer through this new perspective and worship God, regardless of the responses to our prayers?
If we are honest with ourselves, when we REALLY want something, we are willing to compromise our standards…if we believe it is not that big of a deal. But these small compromises add up over time and become our character. What can we learn from Samson who compromised his special calling to gain what he wanted instead?
Let's face it, some people are born with advantages that others do not have. Athletic, academic, financial...the list could go on and on. It would seem some people are simply set up to win. That is where the story of Samson begins. He was given all the advantages, beginning in the womb, to have a life set apart and on mission for God. However, we are going to learn a godly upbringing does not guarantee godly behavior.
No one imagined what was coming as we celebrated the New Year in 2020. It turned out to be a year of global struggle, heartache, and loss. However, as we move to 2021 many enter with fear and uncertainty. Others hope to return to the glory days before COVID-19 to find normalcy. Regardless, God has instructed us to trust Him, to look forward for the new work He is doing, and to not dwell in the past. Regardless of how 2020 landed for you, he is calling all of us to move forward.
At Christmas we think often think of a bright star, angels singing, the manger, and the Messiah being born. Rightfully so. But perhaps we need to change our perspective. Have you ever thought of what Jesus had to give up to born that day? The King of all creation willingly laid aside everything to come as a child to a poor family from Nazareth. That cradle led to a cross, and the cross back to His throne.
Let's face it, finding joy these days can be really difficult. But the good news of the Christmas story is that God offers a deep and abiding joy to everyone that isn't based on our circumstances.
The prophet Isaiah wrote about it hundreds of years before. God was going to send a Messiah to save them. However, the message became murky as many believed he was going to save them from the political rule of Rome. The promise of one who would be the Prince of Peace was, and still is, so much greater than a political figure. He brought shalom to all of humanity.
Our Christmas stories have often presented a pregnant Mary, about to give birth with door after door being slammed in her face. However, through a different lens we see an outpouring of hospitality and a welcoming family that invited Mary and Joseph a home to stay in. That generosity and welcoming heart laid the groundwork for Jesus to be born and worshipped by shepherds and wise men. The story of Jesus began with, and continues to be one where all are welcomed and invited to a relationship with Him.
Loving the people who are just like us is so easy that everybody does it. But what about the people who are hard to get along with, or who vote differently than we do, or even people who insult us? Do we REALLY have to love them as well? Find out what Jesus says, and why who you love is so important in His kingdom.
Sexuality is all around us. So much so, that we have become lazy, even accepting to allowing our minds to engage in lust and pornography. It has been proven that lust changes the way we view others and what we view as valuable. Jesus warns us in the Sermon on the Mount that what we allow to be seen with our eyes, builds and grows in our hearts, that leads to actions with our hands.
We all have them. Those people who have betrayed, damaged, and broken us. If not careful, a small seed of anger towards that person can grow into an all consuming hatred. Jesus taught about this in the Sermon on the Mount and brought a new Kingdom principle that we would never have seen...unrighteous anger towards another is as deadly as murder.
What does a successful life look like? The American ideal says that our success is defined by the acquisition of possessions, prestige, and power. But in the Beatitudes, Jesus invites us to a new way. His way offers a world where we can experience joy and success, bot for ourselves and for others. Through the Beatitudes we find a life worth living.
Have you ever said this sentence: "If only (fill in the blank) would happen...then I would be happy." We all have at some point, but we all know it isn't true. Happiness is snatched away by another problem or need. Jesus knows this, and began the Sermon on the Mount with setting a standard of what character in His kingdom would bring contentment and happiness. But, it is not what we would think. Jesus began the "greatest sermon ever given" by flipping our world and standards upside down to show us a new way of life.
Do you ever feel like you don’t measure up in life? Yeah, us too. It happens to us at work when we fail to meet a quota. It happens to us at home when we let a family member down. It also happens in our faith journey. But according to Jesus' teaching from the Sermon on the Mount, our faith is one area we don’t have to try and measure up. We are worthy because Jesus makes us worthy.
The church, when it is functioning as Jesus intends, is the most healing, loving, and caring community in the world. When not, it can become dysfunctional and cause pain to people both inside and out. This special message for the one year anniversary explores what could happen to the church, community, and the world if we unite to become a true family.
One of the top complaints of people towards churches...they are fake. The people walk into church, pretend to have it all together, but inside they are falling apart. In one sense, they are right. Many people do approach church that way, afraid to be honest about their struggles. However, the church has another side. When the people function as a caring, healing community it produces a radical love that changes lives forever.
Some feel the Bible is an old, dusty, and out of date book that is no longer relevant. Modern uncertainty is heightened by what we believe the Bible is, or what it is not. Do the words of this ancient text speak truth into our lives still today?
It's all over social media. It's heard in coffee shops across America. It is even heard on Sunday mornings. Christians arguing and fighting with others about their view points on minor issues of the Christian faith. This way of thinking and responding has driven people from the faith, and left Christians focusing on the wrong things. We read in a letter from Paul to a young pastor named Timothy in Ephesus that he was going through the same issue as well. How can Paul's instruction to him help guide us and refocus us to what matters most?
We have all been around Christians who...well...aren't very "christian" like. It has confused so many about what it means to follow Jesus and be part of a church, causing some to reject it all. Jesus taught the way we live our faith impacts ourselves and those around us, and will require a whole new way of living life. Is your faith walk confusing people around you or leading them to a new life with Jesus?
When life doesn’t turn out the way we planned or hoped, where do we put our focus and trust? Is it on our circumstances, or on God? Hear how the story of Esther encourages us that even in midst of unplanned circumstances, God is still working.
"It's no big deal." A common phrase uttered before a bad decision is about to be made. Often times we think our decisions only impact ourselves, but it isn't true. The choices we make sends out waves that collide with others in our life... both good and bad. Jonah made one bad decision after another, and it almost cost him and others their lives. How can the story of Jonah and his decision to run from God gives us a new insight and challenge us today?
Needless to say, 2020 has been a stressful year. We have been struggling with difficult situations that have brought out some unhealthy responses. However, it is in difficult situations that our true character comes out. How can the responses of the people in the story of Elisha and Naaman in 2 Kings 5:1-19 challenge and inspire us as we navigate these unprecedented times?
David didn't fit the mold. He was too young, inexperienced, and the youngest in his family. However, he was crowned king of Israel and saved the nation in the middle of a war. When we are looking for leaders, we are always looking at outside qualities. But God has a different criteria...He looks at the heart.
When we think about the story of Samson, we tend to picture a mythic man who was a cross somewhere between Arnold Schwarzenegger and Fabio. A man of superhuman strength, capable of ripping apart lions with his bare hands. And yet despite all his power, in the end he was undone by something very small. Compromise. What can Samson’s tragic downfall help teach us about overcoming the power of compromise in our own lives?
After God had rescued the nation of Israel from slavery in Egypt, they were once again faced with insurmountable odds. The people buckled and wanted to run in fear. But two leaders, Caleb and Joshua, did not. They believed with God, they could win. These men put their life on the line when everyone was against them. How can their stand impact our faith and leadership today?
In Matthew 25, we see a parable by Jesus that explains what He expects His followers to do. He shares that those who are with Him take on His mission to love and care for the marginalized in our world. But what if we don't? Is it possible to be a follower of Jesus and still focus on ourselves over others?
Let’s face it, sharing our faith with others can be scary. What will they think about us? What if I don’t know what to say? It often feels easier just to share our faith through serving others instead. But can we really divorce the proclamation of the Gospel from acts of compassion and still say we’re practicing biblical evangelism?
In the past, communities relied on each other to survive. The skills, talents, and abilities of its members all played a part in providing for each other. The church is designed the same way. But when believers gather together, they use their gifts to live out the mission of Jesus both in the church and in the world.
As Americans, we are obsessed by things that are big, comfortable, and luxurious. That consumeristic way of thinking has entered the church, causing people to ask what can the church give them instead of asking how they can give to others. In 1 Corinthians we see that God has uniquely made us to work together as one body. How can we break consumerism and return to working together for the mission of Jesus?
Paul in his letter to Galatia instructs them clearly on how to care for people who are struggling or caught in sin - restore them gently and carry their burdens with them. This is a big task, that requires our lives to be in line with the Holy Spirit. How can we join the Spirit with sowing love into a hurting world?
Jesus taking our place for sin has brought us freedom. Freedom from sin and from the rules and restrictions of the old ways. However, what are we to do with this new found freedom? Are we to use it for our own gain, or the sake of others?
In Galatia, there were teachers who we mixing up the gospel of Jesus with the laws in the Old Testament. Are we saved by faith, by doing good things, or a combination of both? Paul confronts their mixed beliefs in Galatians 3:1-9.
Sometimes, it is hard to tell if something is authentic or counterfeit. The apostle Paul had to deal with it over 2000 years ago with a vital topic - the gospel. The Galatians were accepting a fake gospel instead of the one they first received from him. How can we know all these years later what is the true gospel of Jesus and what is a fake?
The apostle Paul had a hard life once he started following Christ. He was beaten, shackled in prison, shipwrecked, and betrayed. However, he found a way to be content in all situations, even the hard ones. How can Paul's powerful way of contentment influence us today?
When Jesus came, his disciples and the Jewish people put expectations on Him that were not true. They saw the Messiah as a military and political power, but Jesus came to give His live to save the world. What happens when we do the same thing and put wrong expectations on Him today?
God called Abraham to give up his home and everything he knew in a thriving city to move to an unknown, remote place. In the process, he didn’t promise more luxury or comfort. He promised to make Abraham greater than he could imagine. God calls us to unknown, uncomfortable things as well. When God calls us to something new, do you trust or are you gripped by fear?
Change is hard. It means entering into unknown places and trying new things. Mary was thrust into a time of change when she was approached by an angel who told her she was going to be pregnant. How do you approach life altering moments? With faith or fear?
We all have lions in our lives. They are the huge, scary, fierce situations that we live through. They shape us, mold us, and change our perspective. Daniel went through so much, yet stayed faithful to God through it all. How do you respond when the lions are roaring and you are surrounded?
Job is a man who had and lost everything. In the middle of the pain, the loss, the suffering, he never turned away from God. How do you respond to hardship and suffering? What would your life look like if you could stand like Job, and trust God no matter what?
When life threatens to fill us with fear, where do you go...what do you do? Joshua is an example of how to practice courageous faith in the face of great adversity.
The hour had come. Jesus was arrested and led to the cross. While all of this was happening, his disciples fled and Peter betrayed him. But Jesus didn't stay in the grave, He beat death just like He said He would. Jesus appears to His disciples, and has a moment with Peter the betrayer. What does Jesus do? He loves Peter and restores him to his calling that He had revealed to him years before.
If you could go back in time and redo some things from your life, what would they be? Would you ask your high school sweetheart to prom, take a chance on a job, perhaps take back some hurt you have caused? We find out in Revelation 21 that God offers us a redo. The mess we started when we sinned is removed, and we go back to where we belong. Back to the beginning.
God's grace is a difficult concept for us to grasp. We are given freedom from the mess we have made, and there is nothing we can do to pay it back. How can we embrace this grace so that it changes our lives and perspective forever?
The first recorded words of Jesus in Mark 1:14-15 calls people to repent. But what exactly does that mean, and what is Jesus asking us to do? Little do we know, but repentance all begins with changing our perspective.
When all seems lost, when the waves are crashing all around you, what do you do? Do you turn your head and heart toward the Creator, or do you give up? Psalm 121 gives us encouragement in these troubling times as we face the ripple effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
At times we all wrestle with issues of faith. The truth is, most if not all of our favorite biblical heroes struggle with doubt as well. They are men and women just like us. In spite of their doubts, the book of Hebrews teaches us these same men and women model for us how to persevere in our faith.
Every day, in some way, we fail to keep God’s law. That isn’t because God didn’t make us correctly but rather because we are living under the curse of God for the virus of sin that was unleashed into the world. If we are part of the problem, what can be done about this?
We live in a disposable society. We no longer fix broken things, instead throw it out and buy a new one. It is even happening in our relationships and our jobs. But God doesn't do that with us. Though the story of the Samaritan woman at the well, we can see Jesus fix her brokenness, and in turn she changes the world.
Sexual abuse and misconduct of women is being exposed in our culture, and the #silenceisnotspiritual movement ignited churches talking about the injustice. Through the story of David and Bathsheba, we can learn how power and vulnerability can be markers of abuse...and it is not okay.
Enemy, prostitute, a nobody. The advancement of Israel's army hinged on Rahab in Jerhico, whose faith changed human history. How can this God of second chances join us into His story and change our lives as well?
It’s so easy to be distracted by all the things we have going on in our lives that we forget one very crucial thing: spending time with Jesus. Explore how Jesus responded to two important women in His life and the choices they made when they were with Him.
In Ecclesiastes chapter 12, the author Solomon summarizes and concludes his journey of finding meaning in life. His wisdom has been passed down for 1000's of years for us to hear today. Will we listen to him and live a life that will change us and change the world?
How does God want us to respond when we encounter suffering and injustice in the world? King Solomon in the book of Ecclesiastes highlights that a living faith moves us to do something about it.
There are so many views of what matters in life and how to measure success. Is it through your work? Is it having money and power? How do you know if you are making a difference and living a life that counts?
A new year has come, and old one has gone. New Year's is a great time to set new goals for yourself. We dream of new positive changes in our lives, but what if this year brings hardships and struggles...are you ready? Is your spiritual life prepared to keep "pressing on towards the goal?"
The long expected Messiah arrived and humanity would never be the same. He offered to be a light in the darkness, and to show us a new way of living. If Jesus really was the light, do you allow Him into the dark places of your life?
At Christmas, there are so many things to celebrate about the birth of Jesus. His arrival offered us healing to our broken lives, a voice to the oppressed, and a pardon from our sins. How can Jesus fix the brokenness in each one of us?
Christmas is a time full of great things. Great presents. Great food. Great parties. And great expectations. But when those expectations are not met it can leave us feeling discouraged and disappointed. The birth of Jesus teaches us that we can take hope this holiday season in all circumstances, because God isn’t limited by our expectations.
When we see baby Jesus in the manger, we celebrate the coming of a king, and rightfully so. But have you ever considered what Jesus gave up to become a human baby? Explore a new perspective through the scriptures to see the majesty of Jesus and the humility of the manger.
We spend so much time preparing for the Christmas season. From shopping, decorating, parities and more, we spend countless hours getting ready for the big day. When Jesus was coming, God used John the Baptist to prepare the way for him, modeling for us the importance of preparation before receiving from God. This Advent season, what are you doing to prepare your life to receive from Jesus?
People asked Jesus how do you sum up all of the laws of God. He made it simple- Love God and Love others. The love he talked about was different from what we think. What would it really look like if we did these things? What would the world look like if Christians did this?
In Romans 12:9-13 Paul instructs the church to have sincere love for each other. As he continues on in the passage, he breaks down what that type of love looks like. There are so many counterfeit examples of "love" out there...how do we know what is real?
In Luke 10:25-37, Jesus breaks racial, religious, and cultural barriers by telling the story of the Good Samaritan. In 2019, we sit in the same seat as his listeners back then. We are divided by political views, color of skin, sexual orientation, economic status, and more. Love goes beyond what what culture tells us. Just because I don’t agree with you, doesn’t mean I do not love you.
Matthew 9:10-17: Jesus hung out with people most church goers would not today. Somewhere along the way, Christian culture has deemed who we should or should not show love and grace to. It created borders and a “good guy-bad guy” system. The problem with that, is Jesus loved everyone, spent time with all types of hurting, lost people, and had a mission of everyone understanding and experiencing God’s love for humanity. It’s time we take that back.
What if God gave up on us every time we messed up? If He turned His back on us when our religion or good works don't make the mark? It would be unthinkable. We see in Romans 8:37-39 that God's love is relentless and there is absolutely nothing that separates us from what He did through His son Jesus.
It makes sense that we would hate those who hate us. Some religious people of Jesus' day even taught it. Then in Matthew 5:43-47 He flips it over and says we need to love our enemies. Is that even possible? What would the world look like if people would actually do this? Is love really greater then hate?
In John 8:1-11, Jesus approaches forgiveness through a new angle. His act of grace in the face of sin changed a person’s life forever. How can this type of love change us and the people in our lives?
For us to be able to give and receive love, it requires us to see it in the right light. Love puts others before ourselves…love is sacrifice.
“Focus On The Family Part 1 – The Standard For The Family”.
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“Worship is SURRENDER (2)”.
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“Dominate Part 6 – We Shall Overcome”.
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“Dominate Part 5 – Claim Your City For Christ”.
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“Dominate Part 4 -Claiming Your Family in Christ”.
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“Dominate Part 3 – Enjoying Your Destiny in Christ”.
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“Dominate Part 2 – Reclaiming Your Culture For Jesus”.
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“This Is Your House Part 5 – Fruit That Lasts”.
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“This Is Your House Part 4 – House Keeping”.
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“This Is Your House Part 2 – No Roots No Fruit”.
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“This Is Your House Part 1 – Welcome Home”.
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Mosaic’s first Easter message.
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