Immanuel Church Wilmington Delaware: Recent Episodes
Immanuel Church
Colossians 3:12-15 "Bearing With One Another"
We look at Paul's letter to the Colossians where he describes the characteristics that should be present in a Christian community. We should have compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. We should be bearing with one another since we are all sinners saved by grace. This will enable us to be a light to the world, drawing people out of darkness.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 13:34-35 "Love One Another"
Having finished a series challenging us to grow in Him, we begin a new series challenging us to reflect Him. John chapters 13-17 contain the final instructions of Jesus before the cross. The Old Testament told us to love one another as we love ourselves, but Jesus gave the command to love one another as He loved us. He humbled himself before others. He loved imperfect people patiently. He loved us with truth and grace. He loved us sacrificially. Jesus died to create a redeemed family. Love must come from Christ before it can flow through us, shining His light to the world.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Galatians 5:22-25 "Fruit That Remains"
As we concluded the "Abide" series, we reviewed the lessons from the previous weeks. Study the Word. Pray with quicky prayers throughout the day, as well as having devoted prayer times. Fellowship with other believers who can support you. Obey God in the small things. Remember that the fruit of the Spirit is not decoration, but meant to feed a hungry world.
Pastor Jeff was in an accident, so will be out for several weeks, but sermons will be from Pastor Will for a brief season. Pray for Pastor Jeff's smooth and rapid recovery.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 John 1:5-9 "Walking in the Light"
God is light and in Him there is no darkness. Once we confess our sins and choose to follow Christ, we must choose to walk in that light, and to avoid darkness. Walking in the Light involves: daily surrender, honest confession, scripture saturation, accountable fellowship, and rejection of darkness. That's how we abide in Him.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
NOTE: The previous 7/5 recording was mistakenly the Sunday Worship instead of the Sermon. This is the correct recording.
Sorry for the confusion.
John 15:1-8 "Rooted in Him"
As we begin a new 4-part series, we address the challenge that comes after salvation. Jesus teaches that we are branches on Jesus, the Vine, and we must draw life from Him. As we do, we will begin to bear the fruit of the Spirit. We grow as we should if we let Him prune us and feed us, not resting on our own resources. Spend time with Him in prayer and study of the Word.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
NOTE: see the corrected recording of Part 1
Colossians 3:16; Matthew 6 " The Word and Prayer"
How do we "abide in Him"? The Word is how we inhale the life of God. God's Word changes us from the inside out. It's not just information, but also transformation. Prayer is how we exhale our dependence upon Him. The Lord's Prayer teaches us how to abide. Abiding is a daily rhythm, not a weekly event.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Romans 8:12-17 "Adoption to the Family"
Our commitment to Christ moves us from spiritual death to spiritual life. Our position is then sonship by adoption into His family. We should then make progress in controlling the flesh and following the Spirit. The proof of our adoption occurs as we see the presence and fruit of the Spirit in our life. As part of His family, we have the promise of being heirs of Christ's sufferings and eventual glory.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ephesians 2:1-10 "From Death to Life"
Being born from above means to spiritually move from death to life. We are constantly battling the world, the Devil, and our flesh, but our decision to accept Jesus as our Savior and Lord enables us to experience God's mercy, God's love, and God's grace. We need to then walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 3:1-8 "You Must Be Born Again"
After seeing the rescue of Israel in the sermon series on Exodus, we look at how this redemption becomes ours. This is revealed in the conversation between Jesus and a Pharisee named Nicodemus. Jesus makes it clear that religion cannot produce life, that we must be born again from above, and that the Holy Spirit brings new life.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Exodus 15-17
As we conclude the sermon series on the Book of Exodus, we find the Israelites rejoicing and worshipping God for their deliverance from captivity in Egypt. However, they soon began to complain about being hungry and thirsty, so God provides them with daily manna, quails and water. The glory of the Lord is revealed. Nevertheless, their complaining continues off and on for the rest of their journey. Complaining dishonors God since it shows mistrust. Complaining distracts us from receiving the blessings and purpose that God has for our lives.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Exodus 15:1-18
When the Israelites were delivered from the Egyptian army at the Red Sea, they sang a song of praise, worship and thanksgiving. They were still not in the best of conditions, but they worshipped God. This reminds us of our responsibility to worship the Lord, regardless of our circumstances. Make the decision - "I will sing". Then sing unto the Lord. He is always worthy of our praise and worship, for He has redeemed us from the captivity of sin and death.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Exodus 13 - 14
Once Pharaoh had allowed the Israelites to leave, God encourages them to remember their deliverance from slavery by consecrating the day and continuing to celebrate their redemption. To experience true freedom, they needed to give their first fruits to Him. We see that God offsets our weakness with His strength as He divides the Red Sea so they could cross, then destroys the Egyptian soldiers with that same water. The lesson is that we may know what we see, but God knows and sees everything.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Exodus 11 -12
Pharaoh continues to reject God's call to let His people leave Egypt, despite the many plagues. Finally, God declares that every firstborn in the land was to die. Only those who covered their doorposts with the blood of a sacrificed lamb would be spared. It foreshadowed the blood shed by Jesus to cover the sins of all who believed it by faith. The blood had to be trusted, applied and believed. Salvation has always required faith. The holiness of God demands that sin be dealt with. You cannot save yourself. Trust the Lamb.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Exodus 7 - 10
After Moses confronts Pharaoh with God's command to let His people go, Pharaoh refuses. As a result, God causes various plagues to come upon Egypt. Each time God removes a plague, Pharaoh stubbornly resists, leading to a new plague. We looked at the first 9 plagues. Egypt has many "gods" over various aspects of creation. Each plague that comes proves that Yahweh, the God of Israel, is more powerful than that particular god. Do you have false gods in your life? The one true God can give you power to overcome any you face.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Exodus 5-6
As we continue the sermon series on the book of Exodus, we find the Israelites struggling with Pharaoh's treatment. Although God promised through Moses and Aaron that he would deliver them from Egypt, they began to murmur and complain. God had to remind them all of His faithfulness through generations. Moses gave excuses as to why he couldn't confront Pharaoh, but he was reminded that God was in control. God starts with grace even though He has every right to start with wrath. God gives grace when we bring our good and our bad to Him. We should operate in His grace.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Exodus 3-4
As we continue our series on the Book of Exodus, entitled "The God Who Saves", we come to the time when God chooses to deliver the Jewish people from bondage in Egypt. We find God confronting Moses in the burning bush and calling him to lead His people from captivity. Moses felt inadequate, but God used him anyway. We can learn from his experience. We may have questions, but God is the answer. We may make excuses, but God makes a way. We are NOT special, but GOD provides amazing opportunities to be a testimony for Him.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Exodus 1 & 2
We start a new series entitled "The God Who Saves". We finished the study of the Gospel of John. Now we look at the book of Exodus, which gives the historical and theological foundation for John's Gospel. The God revealed in Jesus is the covenant-keeping Redeemer who delivers His people. We begin by looking at the bondage that the Israelites experienced in Egypt, and how God worked behind the scenes to bring about their deliverance. If we admit that we are in bondage to sin, we too can experience deliverance. You are more enslaved than you think and more loved than you ever imagined.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 20-21
As we close out the book of John, we explore the appearances of the risen Jesus to Mary, the disciples, and Thomas. We see the restoration of Peter. The resurrection validates every claim of Jesus and invites all to believe. The risen Christ brings peace, restoration, mission and eternal life. You can't have peace with God until you have a relationship with Jesus. When we have peace with God, we can have peace with ourselves and others.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 17-19
As we study the events leading to the crucifixion of Jesus, we first look at his teaching on unity in His church. Unity is diversity with harmony. Unity must be centered around Christ and His Word. It's based on a mutual relationship with Christ. We then look at the person of Pilate. He knew right from wrong but was more worried about what people would think about him. The fear of man and the need to be a people pleaser will cause you to do things that are not right just because it’s popular.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 14-16
Chapters 12 & 13 deal with the anointing at Bethany, the triumphal entry and the Last Supper. In Chapters 14-16, we have the teachings of Jesus about the Holy Spirit as the helper, comforter and advocate. The Holy Spirit is a person of God, just like the Father and the Son. We see that the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit were all present at Creation, as well as at the baptism of Jesus. The Holy Spirit has a mind, a will, and emotions. He dwells in us when we get saved. He teaches, convicts and guides us, as well as testifies through us.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 11
In raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus conquered death and foreshadowed His own resurrection. Some lessons from this incident: 1- Jesus was never alarmed or panicked about anything, and was driven by His Father’s will, not emotional desires; 2- God’s timing is not our timing and we don’t always understand His timing; 3- When death happens, Eternal Life continues.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 10
As we continue our study of the Gospel of John, we find Jesus in a long discourse with religious leaders and others regarding whether he is God. He explained by comparing himself to a good shepherd, something they all understood. He provides guidance and protection and is willing to lay down his life for his sheep. He is the Shepherd-Messiah. The actions and the words of Jesus Christ PROVE that He is God!
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 7-9
When we reach these chapters, we find Jesus during the Feast of Tabernacles. Jesus talks about the water-pouring and lamp-lighting ceremonies and declares that he is their fulfillment. He is the Water of Life and the Light of the World. As we read of the healing of the man born blind, we learn how the light of Jesus exposes sin, overcomes darkness, and brings spiritual light. Belief brings sight, unbelief blinds. Allow the light of Jesus to guide you through the darkness of this world.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 6
This chapter begins with Jesus speaking to a multitude who become hungry. To meet their need, he multiplies the few available loaves and fish in a miraculous provision for them. After leaving that crowd for a time, he walks on water to reach another crowd. It's here that he proclaims himself the Bread of Life. Many are searchers, but as he further expounds upon this truth, some become grumblers, some arguers, and even some decide to desert him. We must seek after Jesus because we want a relationship with Him- NOT a handout.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 5:1-9
When Jesus came to the pool of Bethesda and saw the many disabled people hoping to receive healing from the waters, he was led by God to speak to one man who had been an invalid for 38 years. The man was healed simply by obeying the words of Jesus to stand and walk. Jesus has divine authority to heal, judge, and give life. It's important for us to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance so that we minister in divine authority, not in our own human desires.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 4:1-42
As we continue to follow the life of Jeus in the Gospel of John, we come upon his meeting the Samaritan woman at the well. He reveals Himself as Messiah to a broken woman - and transforms a whole town. In John 3, Jesus offered eternal life to a wealthy Council leader. Now he offers it to the outcast and overlooked. Eternal life is available to all.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 3:1-18
Continuing the study of John entitled "That You May Believe", we examine the conversation of Jesus with Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling Council. Jesus explains what it means to be born again. Nicodemus's response went from confusion, to curiosity, to conviction, and most likely to conversion. The plan of salvation as declared in John 3:16-18.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 2
Since the morning service was cancelled due to the snow emergency, Pastor Will Livestreamed the sermon from his home. In Chapter 2 of John, we see Jesus performing his first miracle and then clearing the Temple. They symbolize His ability to transform lives, but also to confront and cast out evil. He is the Messiah with divine authority.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 1:19-51
As we continue through the Gospel of John, we see Jesus revealing himself personally and inviting seekers to believe. John the Baptist gives witness to many that Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Jesus then has his first interactions with Andrew, Peter, Philip and Nathanael. Each has his own story of how he came to follow Jesus. Faith often begins with invitation, testimony and simple obedience.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 1:1-18
We begin a 13-week Sermon Series entitled "That You May Believe: Encountering Jesus in the Gospel of John". This journey is anchored in the central message of John’s Gospel: Jesus is the Son of God, the promised Messiah, and through belief in Him we receive eternal life. In this first sermon, we ask "Who is Jesus?". We see that He is Eternal God. He is Life and Light. The Word became flesh and dwelled among us. We're called to believe, to receive and thus to live.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Corinthians 11:17-34
Before starting the new year with a Reflective Communion, we looked at teaching about the proper attitude when partaking of Communion. Because of God's righteousness, we need to examine ourselves beforehand and confess our sins to God, so we can enter with the right standard before Him. The Lord's Supper exemplifies the sacrifice of Jesus for our sins.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Psalm 133
As we prepare to begin a new year, we look at what the psalmist says brings the blessings from God. They come when we put aside our selfish desires, our unforgiveness, and our grudges to pursue unity in our family, the church and the nation. Those blessings will then overflow to others.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
This recording includes elements of our Christmas Eve Service. First is the Advent Reading, followed by a sample of the Worship and Scripture readings. Then the sermon begins about 11 minutes in, where Pastor Jeff recounts the significance of the birth of Jesus. Following the sermon, you'll find the 2 Carols sung during the congregational Candle Lighting.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-38
As we continue the Advent series, "Crossroads to Christmas", we explore the many emotions that Joseph had surrounding the birth of Jesus. We see his initial anxiety and fear regarding Mary's pregnancy until the angel appears to him and gives him peace. He handles the situation with integrity. When the child arrives, he is filled with joy. Some of the hardest decisions we make are some of the best decisions we make. It's important that Jesus is the center of our lives.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 1:18-24; 2:1-23
We continue in the sermon series, Crossroads to Christmas, by looking at all the prophecies that were fulfilled in the birth of Jesus. That multitude of prophecies proved true through the test of time, proving that Jesus is the Son of God and the promised Messiah. Because of that, we can trust that God's promises of love and salvation still ring true today. We have peace during the Christmas season knowing God's promises are guaranteed.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Isaiah 7:10-14
We begin an Advent series entitled "The Crossroads of Christmas". In this first sermon, we look at the reality of the virgin birth through Mary. It was a Miraculous Conception, not an Immaculate Conception. Mary was not devoid of original sin. She was an imperfect person fulfilling a perfect plan, God's divine selection for His divine purpose. All have sinned and need a sinless Savior. Jesus had no sin and then gave his life for us. Even Mary declared him to be her Savior. And so we begin to explore all the prophecies of the Messiah that were fulfilled in the birth, life and death of Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 13:24-30; 25:31-46
After summarizing the lessons from the previous parable sermons, we concluded the Parade of Parables series by addressing those that dealt with the second coming of Jesus and the time of judgment. Jesus compared it to a time of harvest when the wheat is separated from the weeds, and to a time when a fishing net is cleared of the bad fish. Jesus doesn't do the separating until the final judgment, so the "good wheat" and "good fish" are fully clear. May we be found faithful when the final harvest of true believers takes place.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 15:11-32
Wanting the blessings of God, without God, is sin. The Parable of the prodigal son shows us that sin promises freedom but gives slavery. Repentance is not getting better, not trying harder, not fixing ourselves. Repentance is simply turning away from sin and turning toward God, who will do the cleaning, just as the prodigal son discovered. We may be like the younger son who was lost in rebellion, or like the older son who was lost in religion, but the Father loves us all.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 25:14-30
In the 24th chapter, verses 5-12, Jesus describes the state of the earth when He returns. He says no one will know the day. Jesus gives parables that show what is needed to prepare for that time. He compares it to a man who goes on a journey and entrusts his possessions to three servants. When the man returns, he blesses the two of them who had increased the possessions and curses the third who had stored it away. Jesus makes it clear that our time on earth should be spent using our finances, possessions and talents to further the Kingdom of God.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 10:25-37
In this parable, Jesus goes into the explanation of what it means to "love thy neighbor as thyself". The Samaritan saw a man in need and chose to help him, despite the social pressures to ignore him. Our neighbors are not just our family and friends. No one is perfect and we deserve judgement, but God has shown us mercy through the sacrifice of Jesus. So, we should put aside judgements and show mercy to all who may be needy, just like the Samaritan.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 22:1-14; Luke 14:25-33
The parables this week involve the invitation to God's Kingdom and the cost of discipleship. How do we respond to God's invitation? Do we ignore it, or do we decide we're too busy? Some people may actually respond with violence towards those making the invitation. When we choose to accept the invitation though Christ, we must count the cost of discipleship. The benefit is that we receive all the provision of God for today and for eternity.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 13:31-33
Continuing the Parade of Parables by Jesus, we looked at the characteristics of growth shown with the mustard seed and with yeast. We saw how God takes simple things and works them into great things. However, we also learned there can be unhealthy growth as well as healthy growth. When not handled properly, the mustard plant can become an unruly tree that's affected by birds and storms. So, we must beware of false influences that water down or eat away at Kingdom truths.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 13:44-46
Continuing the Parade of Parables, we look at one that speaks of a hidden treasure and a pearl of great price. Jesus emphasizes the great value of salvation and the kingdom of God. We spend so much time following the temptations of the valueless, the earthly treasures that are temporary and fade away. We are called to trade in those temporary thrills for the eternal benefits of salvation.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Mark 4:1-20
Pastor Jeff began a sermon series on the parables of Jesus. He began by covering the meaning and purpose of parables. Jesus chose to use them to reveal spiritual principles through common human experiences. The agricultural community understood the practical process of sowing seeds for crops. The successful growth of a crop is dependent upon the quality of the soil and the influence of outside forces. Jesus compared the factors that hinder successful planting to those that affect our spiritual growth. May we be healthy soil for the seeds of the Gospel.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Otis is a retired Pastor who will be leading a new Life Group. As he shares about the comfort of God, he points out how Life Groups are a means for God to manifest His comfort through other believers. As a loving Father, God is responsible for the care of His children, and they are never out of His sight. Many times, He uses His people to comfort His people. Spiritual transformation and growth occur when we walk together instead of alone.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Philippians 2:5-11
Bob is a retired Pastor who will be leading a new Life Group. He reminds us that God wants to be with us. Sin does not alter God's view of us, but alters our view of God, and our understanding of God's view of us. Repentance is not just relief from guilt but is recognizing we've messed up our relationship with God and others. We need to build a relationship with God and allow Him to heal us emotionally. Life Groups are where we can support each other in our daily walks with God. We're not intended to struggle alone.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 20:17-21, 27-35
As Pastor Daniel gave his final sermon as Senior Pastor at Immanuel, he reminded us that the church is the people. Serving the people means serving Jesus. Don't serve the institution, serve the Lord of the institution. Be with the Jesus who inspired the Scriptures. Read the Word and listen to God. Allow the words of Jesus to dwell in you richly so that it overflows to others. Be a faithful presence when the Body of Christ gathers. Let Jesus be your center.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ephesians 2:11-22
We reviewed the Biblical history that led to the development of the Christian Church, before looking at 3 main aspects of the Church that Paul points out in this Ephesians passage. 1- the Church is the household of God; 2- it is built on the foundation of apostles and prophets, with Jesus Christ as the cornerstone; 3- the Church is God's Temple.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 11 & 12
In these final chapters, the author of Ecclesiastes summarizes what has been taught previously. We don't know or understand the work of God, who makes everything. Be okay with not knowing. "Do not seek to understand in order to believe but believe so that you may understand." Live life with God in the here & now. Trust your Creator for the future.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 10
In a broken world, true wisdom is rare - but essential. Only the wisdom found in Christ can save us from the destruction of sin and foolishness. God's wisdom preserves life and influence in a world filled with folly.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 9
The author of Ecclesiastes continues to address those things that bring meaning to life. No one knows when their hour of death will come. Time and chance happen to everyone. Accomplishments fade over time, so make an impact now. Living each day to the fullest for the Lord brings contentment and joy. Avoid the meaningless life.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 8:1-15
In order to live a life in Christ, we need to first embrace our limitations and humanity before God. Then we should seek to live a life empowered by the Spirit to be more like Christ. This frees us from pressures to be in control of our lives. Instead of being anxious, we can be joyful.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 7:14-18
As we live our lives, we must be wise in recognizing that we are not God and then be content with that. With the mysteries of life, faith is more valuable than understanding. When times are tough, don't step back from God, but draw closer to Him. Learn to live by faith. Trust in God's faithfulness.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 6:1-5
The author of Ecclesiastes continues to observe that riches in life don't necessarily bring satisfaction or joy. Joy is not determined by the changing circumstances of life, but by focusing on Jesus, the immovable foundation. His values conflict with the world's values. Are you living life on the periphery, controlled by circumstances, or are you focused on Jesus?
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 5 & 6
These chapters ask the following questions: What is the point of work and wealth if we're not enjoying them? What is worship if it is hollow? What truly satisfies the human soul?
The conclusion is that life is vanity if focused on outward things instead of inward reverence of a holy God.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 3:16-4:12
The author of Ecclesiastes wrestles with some of the evils in life. When we see a lack of justice in this world, we can rejoice that God will mete out justice in the end. In the meantime, we should seek to correct injustice when we see it. We may mourn the reality of death but can rejoice that Jesus overcame it. As a result, we should be wise in the use of our time. The author sees the reality of oppressors, but if we insert ourselves into community, we can experience positive human relationships.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
The Mission Team that went to serve in Costa Rica for a week shared testimonies and slides. They joined with 2 other churches and did a mix of the following: food and Bible distribution, youth ministry, kid's ministry, women's ministry, preaching/testimonies for Sunday service, and construction to build 2 new Sunday School rooms for a church. Their report and testimonies are included here.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 3
Spiritual maturity comes as we learn to cling to faith in the midst of our doubts, not imagining that there are answers to all of them. We need to be okay with the limitations of humanity and trust the unlimited God. He can take your limitations and do the impossible. God has made everything beautiful in its time, so we need to believe in the goodness of God, even during rough times. That's living a life of faith.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 2
God created the Earth for His own pleasure. Work and pleasure in the Garden of Eden brought fulfillment because God was in it. As the author of Ecclesiastes reflects on the vanity of life and our pleasure-soaked world, he realizes that exists because eternal longings don't come without God. Instead of unrest and despair, we can have lasting fulfillment and joy. Toil, pleasure, wisdom, and even death, take on new meaning when we allow God to work in us.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 1
We begin a new series on the book of Ecclesiastes entitled "Asking Questions? - Cling to Faith". We find the author searching for meaning in life. He reflects on the fruitlessness of much of life yet realizes that only God can fulfill us. His frustrations with the sin and circumstances of this world cause him to groan for the day when God will make all things new. The book of Ecclesiastes then deals with the journey of faith.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 6:9-10
We explored God's plan to bring heaven to earth and to reconcile us to Himself by looking at what takes place in Scripture from Abraham to the end. Throughout history He manifested His presence through wind and fire. The wind and fire present at Pentecost began the time when God's presence came within us. We are now His image bearers to bring His message of reconciliation to the world.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 6:9-10
As we begin to end the current sermon series, we explore further the Lord's Prayer request that God's Kingdom be manifest on earth. The Bible begins by revealing God's heart. In Genesis Chapter 12, we see God's rescue plan to gather His people back to Himself. We are a part of that plan to see things made new, and we are given the message of reconciliation through the sacrifice of Christ.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ephesians 1:3-14
Continuing the Series "Eternity is Now in Session", we learn that our identity is based on the fact that we are chosen and loved by God, and that we are adopted into His family. Once we receive His mercy and are empowered by His grace, we need to live like we're chosen, walk like we're redeemed and stand like we're sealed.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ephesians 3:20-21
This sermon focuses on understanding the dynamic of the “flesh” and the deep work of God to purge us of sin so our wills may begin desiring the will of God. Once we are saved from our sin, God begins to continually deliver us from sin. He puts heaven into us, so that our will becomes His will. We study the examples of Peter and Zacchaeus.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 9:28-36
In Luke's account of the Transfiguration, we find that Peter and the disciples did not see the glory of Jesus until they were “fully awake.” We looked at God’s work in our lives to awaken us to His glory - and how we can recognize the work of His Spirit in our lives, that can awaken our hearts from its slumber. We cannot allow the clouds that enter our lives to shroud the glory of Jesus. He's always there.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 8:4-15
Since our Livestream video did not begin until the end of the worship time, the worship is included here with the sermon. For listening to the sermon alone, go to 19:30 of the recording.
Continuing the sermon series "Eternity is Now in Session", we looked at the meaning of salvation, and how we know if we're saved. It's salvation from every dimension of our lives that has been touched by the Fall, by the curse of sin. The end goal of God's work in our lives is to make us completely whole before Him. Fruit is expected from all who are saved.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Mark 1:14-39
God's kingdom is the reign of Jesus, the realm where Jesus' authority is acknowledged and obeyed. To seek God's kingdom is to desire Jesus' rule to be recognized in our life, in the Body of Christ, and in the world around us. The scripture in the book of Mark makes it clear that the Kingdom is now. We explored 8 aspects of God's Kingdom
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 17:1-3
This sermon acted as an overview of sorts for a whole new sermon series. We dispelled three myths of heaven and eternal life and then looked at how Jesus defines eternal life. Everyone passes on to eternal life or eternal death. Jesus makes it clear that eternal life comes when we believe in His sacrifice for sin and His resurrection, and that it begins immediately upon choosing to follow Him. We should live our lives with that revelation.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 27 & 28
As we conclude the study of the book of Acts, we find Paul teaching us to be content, even in the midst of adversity and suffering. Following God's will does not always mean that things will get better. However, even in the midst of sorrows and troubles, God still wants to use us. Compassion for others is not possible if we're only thinking of ourselves. Patient endurance opens us up to the work of the Holy Spirit.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 25 & 26
As we hear Paul give his testimony before Governor Festus and King Agrippa, we learn important aspects of a Spirit-filled life. We should be sustained by the hope from Jesus's resurrection and promise for the future. We must encounter Jesus through regular prayer. We must be obedient to God's call upon our life.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 23 & 24
After Paul's arrest, he finds himself having to defend the Gospel of Jesus. He recounts his testimony and accomplishments but points out that all changed after he accepted Jesus' sacrifice. He had experienced a transformation and was now choosing to follow God's plan. Our earthly attempts to find meaning in life will be unsuccessful without Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 21 & 22
As we continue to follow Paul on his missionary journeys, we find him constantly seeking God's will for direction. Although he had troublesome times along the way, he found the Holy Spirit was always with him. As we seek to do God's will, we must commit to following Him, pushing aside all distractions, and making Jesus the head of all facets of our life. We can know His will as we use Christ as an example, follow the teaching of God's Word, and follow the Spirit's leading.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 18:18-19:34
As Paul and others continued to travel, ministering to many throughout the Mediterranean area, they found various groups who were following an incomplete or false gospel. Some like Apollos knew only some of the story. He was preaching only about repentance, until they taught him about faith in Jesus. The sons of Sceva tried to cast out demons without knowing Jesus and ended up being assaulted. Some had mixed in the beliefs of other gods, ending up with a false gospel. As Paul exhorted, we must declare the whole Gospel of God, grounded in Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 17:1-18:11
As we follow Paul traveling from city to city, we find various responses to his ministry. In Thessalonica, he experienced hospitality, but also jealousy. In Berea, he found individuals who were eager to study the Scriptures. There was so much idolatry in Athens, many did not grasp the significance of the Gospel. When he reached Corinth, he was first confronted with verbal opposition and began to doubt his mission. However, he soon found faithful followers, and God encouraged him to continue to share the Gospel. May we also be faithful to spread God's message of hope.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 15 & 16
We first find the Church wrestling with doctrine, finding God's word and work, not man's understanding. The Holy Spirit then leads Paul and others to expand the Gospel mission to many lands. They learn to draw upon God's power, not their own. In the process, miracles occur and many are saved. The Holy Spirit is available to us as well, as we seek to follow Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 11:19 - 14:28
In these passages, we find the early Church living on mission in the midst of opposition. As the Church grew, they also experienced persecution. James was killed, and Peter was imprisoned. Yet God manifested himself by freeing Peter from prison and performing miracles. Despite the opposition, Christians continued to pray and witness. In fact, prayer birthed a new missionary movement around the world.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 9:36 - 11:18
As we continue in Acts, we follow some of Peter's travels. After the healing of Aeneas and the resurrection of Dorcas, we find Peter praying, when he's presented with a vision from the Lord. At the same time, an angel of the Lord appears to a Roman centurion named Cornelius. Each man responded in faith and followed the leading of the Holy Spirit to meet each other. From that experience, Peter and the Church leaders realized that all the world could receive salvation through Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 8 & 9
We look at 3 individuals who responded to God's call to follow Jesus in different ways. One asked "what can he do for me?" as he sought power and titles. Another responded with a zeal to follow him. And another, having run from him, surrendered to him fully. God is calling you. How will you respond?
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 6 & 7
As the early Church continues to grow, it faces conflict, yet the Spirit continues to work. They deal with ethnic tension and adapt to change by reorganizing their ministry, which results in growth and power. Many times, in our lives we need to step out of the box of familiarity, in order to experience God's work.
We also read of the life and death of Stephen, a normal man who opens himself to the work of the Spirit. Although he ends up being a martyr for Jesus, he had favor with God and influenced many into the Kingdom.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 4:32 - 5:42
As the church experiences Spirit-filled generosity and community, greediness surfaces in the church. Ananias and Sapphira suffered the consequences of their deception. All that we have is God's, so we must beware of selfish motives in our giving.
As the church continues to live out their new mission, they experience difficult consequences of telling others about Jesus. Nevertheless, each time they were imprisoned, God set them free to continue to preach the Gospel.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 3:1 - 4:31
As we continue the study of Luke's account of the Early Church, we find Peter & John speaking to a crowd after a man that was lame since birth was suddenly healed. The crowd was amazed, and many became Christians. Peter made it clear that it was Jesus who did the healing. The religious authorities had them arrested, but they still shared about Jesus. After being freed, they met with other believers, prayed for more boldness, and received a new filling of the Holy Spirit. May we also experience the power of the Spirit and the power of prayer.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 1 & 2
In the book of Luke, he recounts the life of Jesus and then continues to write about the Acts of the Apostles. At the beginning, the disciples and followers of Jesus were instructed to wait in prayer for further revelation. In these first two chapters, we find them persistent in prayer. Eventually, the Holy Spirit comes, the Church is unleashed, and all is made new. Waiting on the unknown is hard, because we don't have control. Nevertheless, in the waiting, there is training. The faith of the early believers was rewarded with power and transformation.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Joshua 1:1-9
We finished the mini-series with "Guts & Glory". When the Israelites were finishing their time in the desert and preparing to enter the Promised Land, the Lord gave a promise to Joshua, who was now leading after Moses death. God renewed His promise for their destiny in the new land. We learn from this passage the keys to moving from our deserts to our destiny: Know the Scriptures; Obey God; Be strong and courageous. If we believe in God, we must trust Him.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
James 1:2-4
This mini-series begins with "Conquering the Desert". We consider how the Israelites handled their time in the desert, on the way to the Promised Land, and how we should handle the deserts in our lives. They followed God as He led them and provided for them. Good things can still happen during the desert, when we led God do His thing. We need to learn from our desert experiences, and guard against a "wilderness mentality". The joy of the Lord can be our strength.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 John 4:9-13
God is love. He showed His love by sending His Son to live and die for us. As a result, we can know love by knowing God, not by listening to all the world's ideas of love. The more we seek to love like God, the more we experience His presence. We are called to live a life of love. Jesus is our example, and the Holy Spirit empowers us.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 1:39-45
As evidenced in the incident when Mary met Elizabeth, the presence of Jesus brings joy. Later, when the angels declared His birth, it was with great joy. Sometimes we accept pleasure as being joy, when in fact, it is only temporary; whereas Jesus can give us everlasting joy. Joy is one of the fruits of the Spirit. Paul exhorts us to rejoice in the Lord always, for that is the source of spiritual strength.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 14:25-27
The prophet Micah, in chapter 5, prophecies of a Redeemer who will be born in Bethlehem and bring peace to the world. That peace comes when we allow Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to guide our lives through the Holy Spirit. We can have peace with God if we choose things of the Spirit, instead of things of the flesh. Then we can be ambassadors of peace to others.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Isaiah 40:27-31
We begin a 4-part Advent series. The Advent of Jesus is an Advent of Hope. As seen in the Isaiah passage, suffering can lead to bitterness, unless we surrender to God. Hope entered the world in Jesus. He is everlasting; He is Creator; He is powerful; He understands. You have not been ignored. Give up and put Jesus in charge. Don't walk alone.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 28:20b
Concluding the series on the Great Commission, we consider the fact that He has promised to be with us always. In order to have an effect in this world, we need to spend time with Him. We need to be quiet enough to listen to Him, to know His love, to be like a child, and to work with Him. Allow Him to guide your day.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 28:19-20
As we continue the series on the Great Commission, we see that we are called to make disciples of Jesus. To make disciples of Jesus, as He instructed us, we must be disciples of Jesus. In Hebrew culture, young men sat under the tutelage of Rabbis, to grow in their spiritual walk. To be a disciple of Jesus, we must ask ourselves: do we spend enough time with Him? Does our life look like that of Jesus? Do we do the things that Jesus did?
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 28:16-28
This first of a 3 part series on the Great Commission, challenges us to go into the world in the authority given us from Jesus. God wants to use all of us. We are to be apprentices of Jesus as his image bearers. As we step out to influence the world with His resurrection life, our faith will be strengthened. Jesus makes us new.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Philippians 2:1-11
In his teaching about the Body of Christ, Paul makes it clear to the Corinthians that all believers are part of one Body, regardless of country, social status, heritage, etc. In seeking to embrace all peoples, we need to set aside our way, and seek Jesus's way, which is one of sacrifice.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Psalm 137
Continuing our "LIfe in Exile" series, we consider the struggle of the Israelites while in Babylon. They were nostalgic for their time in Jerusalem, when they felt God's presence and could worship Him freely, yet God was still with them. In the midst of our daily lives, we may yearn for "the good old days", yet we should have Kingdom-focused nostalgia. We must deeply desire God's presence with us today, not the circumstances of our past, knowing that is what brings the joy and peace we need, .
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Esther 4
As we continue the sermon series, "Life in Exile", we look at the life of Esther, as she faced a difficult decision to speak truth, despite the possibility of retribution and suffering. However, she realized that God had placed her where she was in order to fulfill God's purposes. In God's providence, we are given opportunities to do good. Although obedience can be costly, we must be honest about the opportunities God has given us.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Jeremiah 29:1-14
The prophet Jeremiah sent a letter to the Israelites held in exile in Babylon. He encouraged them that God would eventually bring them back to Jerusalem, but also gave instruction as to how to live in exile. They are encouraged to live normally, and to seek peace and prosperity in the city where they dwell. As our nation seems to drift further from God, we should still seek to be a positive influence of peace where we live, knowing that our citizenship is in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ephesians 2:11-22
Immanuel Church and Epiphany Church Wilmington had a combined service, joining in worship, and then hearing a sermon on Unity by the two pastors. God desires to unite all things, so he has called us to live Spirit-filled lives in Him. By Grace, that unity gives access to all His benefits, including peace, security, prosperity, and facility.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Timothy 2:1-4
As we conclude the series "Navigating Politics in the Way of Jesus", we consider when and how to stand for Biblical truth in the midst of a chaotic world. Although we should treat all people with grace, we have to be willing to speak the truth in love at times. Nevertheless, our primary responsibility is to live out the Gospel of Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Timothy 4:1-11
We continue "Navigating Politics in the Way of Jesus" by examining spiritual practices that can help us stay grounded in Jesus. These are things that can help us avoid being deceived by lies and false teachings. 1 - Know the Gospel; 2 - Take a Break and Rest Sometimes; 3 - Pray; 4 - Be Together (Community)
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Romans 14:1-12
As we continue "Navigating Politics in the Way of Jesus", we are reminded that Christians are united in Christ, so should not allow our political or social beliefs to affect our relationships with other believers. The early church was made up of individuals from all different political backgrounds, including the 12 disciples. For instance, Matthew, the tax collector, who worked for the government, and Simon, the Zealot, who had fought against the government. Don't let opinions divide. Be empathetic towards your church family.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 18:36-37
We begin a series on "Navigating Politics in the Way of Jesus". We'll be looking at five principles to guide our political engagement. The first one is remembering that our primary allegiance is to Jesus, not to any political party or nation. We looked at some political "religions" that are vying for our allegiance.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
As we continue to study various Psalms, we see David surrounded by enemies when he writes Psalm 3. The situation seems hopeless, but he recalls God's faithfulness in the past. As a result, he does not fear, but asks the Lord to continue to deliver him. May we always remember that "from the Lord comes deliverance" when we call on Him.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
In this Psalm, David reflects on the almighty Creator God, and then establishes how we can fellowship with Him. Everything belongs to God, yet He calls us to Himself, and provides the way to holiness through Jesus. He also fights our battles, and empowers us to be His hands, feet and voice in a lost world. We should draw on this strength and anointing every day.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Psalm 82
As we continue to study the Psalms, we find Psalm 82 speaking of the spiritual battle going on in the heavens. The demonic world (gods) directs unjust and wicked mankind. God defends the weak, poor and oppressed. The time will come when Jesus's victory over sin and death will be manifest, vanquishing the evil "gods" forever.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Psalm 1
The Book of Psalms opens with one that teaches us how to flourish in life. God's vision of thriving does not occur when we seek the counsel and guidance of this world. That's like a tree that fails to bear fruit, because it's planted away from water and the sun. However, those who delight in the Lord, and feed upon His Word, will thrive, just like the tree that is planted by water and exposed to the sun.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
As we continue our "Summer in the Psalms", we look at Psalm 19. In this Psalm of David, he begins by exalting Creator God, but also rejoices that we can know God by studying his Word. His statutes, precepts, commands, and ordinances guide our paths. He concludes by showing that we can not just know about God, but can fellowship and communicate with Him.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Psalm 88
As we begin a series, "Summer in the Psalms", we first look at Psalm 88. Although it expresses the frustration and despair of the psalmist, it still makes it clear that he has seen God work in the past, and is willing to share his feelings with Him. We can be open with God, since he understands the pains of life. In faith, receive His comfort and strength.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Corinthians 12:7-11
We conclude the series on "Life with the Holy Spirit" by addressing the spiritual gift of tongues, which is given for:
1) empowerment for evangelism; 2) affirmation of the presence of God; 3) building up of the Body of Christ; 4) building up of the individual through prayer.
All the gifts of the Spirit are given to edify believers and glorify God.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Romans 12:1-8
As we continue the study of the spiritual gifts, we look at the gift of "helps" (generosity). All Christians are called to give of their time, talents, and treasures; cheerfully and without pretense. We should not be self-seeking. Discover the transforming power of generosity. It's primary purpose is to edify the Body of Christ.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
As we continue to study the gifts of the Holy Spirit, we examine the gift of faith. By grace we are saved, through faith, yet not of ourselves, it comes from God. As we grow in the Lord, we increase our confidence in Him, enabling us to pray and live more in faith. Nevertheless, there can also be a special imparting of a gift of faith, which enables an individual to act in full confidence in God's will.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
As we consider the gift of healing, we are assured that God does heal people today. All believers should pray for the healing of those in need. However, it's also important to reaffirm that Jesus is the one who does the healing, not us. Beware of those who exalt themselves, or expect financial compensation. We also find that there are different kinds of healing that can occur.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Corinthians 14:1-5
As we continue our study of spiritual gifts, we consider prophecy:
- The function of prophecy in the local church.
- The need to weigh prophecy after it is shared.
- Signs of false prophecy and false prophets.
- Developing a prophetic culture at Immanuel.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Corinthians 12:1-8
Spiritual Gifts are given to all who have the Holy Spirit within. They are gracious and free blessings from God for His glory. There are many of them, but all come from the same Spirit. We begin our study of the Spiritual Gifts, with Wisdom, which is competence with regard to the complex realities of life. It's the wisdom of God, not man's.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 10:1-11
God does speak to us today, but we need to recognize His voice. We must know His character, as made clear in the Bible. Then we need to wait on Him, not just talking all the time. As we are still, and open up ourselves to His guidance, we can sense His presence. If he guides us in some way, we need to take the risk of obedience.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Galatians 5:13-23
Life with the Holy Spirit involves recognizing his presence with us daily. It means letting go of those fleshly desires and lifestyles. We may wrestle with sinful thoughts and deeds, but the Holy Spirit is there to help us manifest the positive fruits. As we consciously take steps to avoid sin, the Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome. We're actually unable to successfully do so on our own.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ephesians 1:13-15; 5:18
As we continue the series on "Life with the Holy Spirit", we see our need to be filled with the Spirit. The Holy Spirit comes to dwell in us when we accept Christ as our personal Savior, but we need to pray that the Holy Spirit fills our whole being. We need to empty ourselves and make room for him to work through us in power and wisdom.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 14:12-21
We begin a several week series on "Life With The Holy Spirit". In this first sermon, we see who the Holy Spirit is, and how he's been manifest from creation until now. He was involved in the life of Jesus from his birth to his resurrection. Currently, the Spirit enables God’s work of salvation, and enables us to experience that salvation daily.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Psalm 23
As we look at the 23rd Psalm, we are reminded that God is a loving Shepherd, who cares for each of his sheep. We can be assured that He is always leading us to places that meet our needs. No matter the valleys we may face, He is there to strengthen and restore us. We need not fear the future. We can trust His loving heart.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Corinthians 15:1-8
Christianity is a Good News faith. God has not abandoned us, but offers us new life through Christ. In this 1 Corinthians passage, Paul defines the Good News of Jesus's life, death, burial and resurrection. We need to live out that new life daily. Two testimonies were shared before and after this brief sermon, and 8 individuals declared their faith publicly in the time of water baptism later in the service.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ephesians 4:1-6
The early Church began with Jewish believers in the Messiah. The book of Acts recounts how the Gospel then spread throughout the Gentile world. As the Church became more diverse, Peter, Paul, and others wrote letters to various churches, to help them deal with some of the issues that arose between various cultures. It was made clear that all should humble themselves and seek unity. There is one Body of Christ.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Psalm 78:1-8
As we continue to focus on our priorities for 2024, we address the challenge of passing down our faith to future generations. Are we spiritually fathering or mothering children and new believers? Are we raising up a new generation of leaders? We have a responsibility to share our faith journey with others, to encourage them and to build upon the foundations of Christ's Kingdom.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 9:37-38
As we begin a short series entitled "In Focus", we look at the exhortation of Jesus to pray for laborers to harvest souls. Our responsibility today is to not just pray for laborers, but to become them. Harvesting also involves planting, watering, etc. Each of us should seek to serve in some capacity, both in our personal lives and in the life of the local church.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 15:11-24
As we look further at the Parable of the Prodigal Son, we see someone who had all he would need in life, but chose to walk away, drawn by the temptations of the world. He could have stopped and returned at any time, but kept getting further into depths of despair, before humbling himself and returning to a forgiving father. May we not find ourselves backsliding and drifting further from our Heavenly Father. Stand firm in His amazing grace.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 15:11-32
As we study the Parable of the Lost Son, we see lessons that relate to resurrection. The father rejoices when his son returns, for "he was dead, but now is alive". However, the elder son was bitter, having been faithful to his duties. The message of resurrection joy is available to wayward sons, and also to religious ones.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 21:1-17
As we review the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, we see that the priorities in his spiritual Kingdom were different than what was expected for a physical kingdom. He came in humility, then declared the importance of prayer. He made it clear that it was for all people, then proceeded to minister to those in need.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 13
This chapter offers a rich tapestry of theological truths and practical exhortations that are essential for the Christian journey. From calls to enduring faithfulness and hospitality, to reminders to remember the persecuted and honor spiritual leadership, Hebrews challenges us to live lives marked by love, gratitude, and sacrificial worship.
Website: immanuelde.com
Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 12:14-29
The scripture declares that God is a consuming fire. Not only does this refer to the judgement upon Christ's return, but also to the reality that He burns through the dross in our life, and brings transformation, purification and empowerment. The call to holiness involves finding the very life that God has for us.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 12:1-11
The lessons from this passage in Hebrews can be summed up with Verse 1: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 11:17-40
Faith is the fuel of the Christian life. The author of Hebrews looks at the gaps in the many stories recounted in the Old Testament, and finds that faith helped each one push through. For some, faith helped them in the midst of risk. For others, it sustained their hope. It helped many to endure trials. All looked toward the realization of God's promises being fulfilled. May our lives be grounded in faith.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 11:8-16
As we continue to look at people of faith, the author of Hebrews describes the life of Abraham. His faith in God was manifested in several ways. One was in his willingness to follow God to other lands, believing there would eventually be a promised land. As Christians, we need to live in this world as sojourners, regardless of our location, knowing that our true citizenship is in the Kingdom of God.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 11:1-7
The author of Hebrews expounds on the essence and power of faith, by citing individuals of faith. This week we looked at Abel's faith in Worship, Enoch's faith in Obedience, and Noah's faith in God's Word.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 10:1-39
When God drew near to us, we were made holy through the sacrifice of Jesus. When we draw near to God, He makes us holy through the work of the Holy Spirit. "By one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy." We need to draw near to God with a sincere heart and with full assurance of faith.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Peter 1:3-9
God's ultimate goal is to transform us into the life of Christ, and He gives us all we need to participate in the divine nature. This change comes as we interact in Christian community, not if we isolate ourselves. We grow in the gifts and fruit of the Spirit by interacting in community.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 9:1-28
As moral beings, we have a conscience. Jesus came to bring transformation. His death in the past brings us the clearing of our conscience today. He offers us a clear conscience so that we may serve the living God.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 8
The author of Hebrews compares the old covenant made with Israel to the new one. God's presence was manifested in a Tabernacle or Temple, with specific guidelines. But through the death and resurrection of Jesus, He made Himself available to all through the Holy Spirit.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 6:13 - 7:28
As we get back to the Sermon Series on the book of Hebrews, we are reminded of how Abraham held out hope for many years, waiting for the fulfillment of God's promise. Fulfillment of God's promises in our life can be slow and long, but we need to be patient like Abraham. Jesus has become the guarantee of the new covenant, so we have this hope as an anchor for our soul.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 15:11-32
We tend to call this passage from Jesus as the Parable of the Prodigal Son, but we explore it as the Parable of the Father's Love. The father gave the son freedom to choose his life's direction, yet continued to watch for his return. When he returned, he was welcomed with open arms. So it is between us and our Heavenly Father. When we turn from sin, and approach Him, He's always there to draw us in.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Nehemiah 8:1-12
On the 4th Sunday of Advent, we study the power of Joy. We begin by exploring Nehemiah's account of a time when the Jews had returned from captivity to their nation. As they struggled with feelings of discouragement, they were exhorted to rejoice in God. As we face difficult times, we too should draw upon the joy that comes from God, and was exemplified at the birth of Jesus, the Messiah.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 1:1-14
In this third Sunday of Advent, we address the love of God. The manger and the cross represent the active love of God. It's a steadfast love, that is independent of circumstances, and is unwavering. Christ's love was manifested in deeds, as well as in words. To love like Christ, it takes a partnership with God.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Isaiah 9:1-7; 11:1-10
As we continue in this Advent season, we see that, even during times of desolation, God's promises remain true. Divine intervention brought light into darkness through the promised Messiah. God's work of redemption is still working today to bring peace in our lives. Allow the light of Jesus to penetrate the darkness of life.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Isaiah 64:1-7
As we begin the Advent season, we reflect on the hope that was experienced by those who anticipated the coming of the Messiah. Jesus fulfilled that hope, as God came to dwell among us in the form of a baby, who eventually gave his life to reconcile us to God. His Spirit, that now dwells with us, empowers us to stand in hope for His coming again, to overcome evil and to set up his Kingdom of peace.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 5:11 - 6:12
The author of Hebrews recounts the basics of the faith, such as repentance, forgiveness, fellowship, and the resurrection, but challenges us to grow and mature. There's so much more to the Kingdom Life. If we don't feed on the Truth and the Spirit, we may find ourselves falling away from the faith. There's strength and peace in maturity.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 24:1-44
We take a break from the Hebrews sermon series, to examine the prophetic words of Jesus on the final days surrounding his second coming. Throughout the centuries, there have been circumstances that caused that generation to believe theirs were the final days. Jesus makes it clear that we won't know the exact timing, but should be aware of the increasing signs. He then encourages us not to be afraid, but to serve him daily, being ready when he comes.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 4:14-5:10
"We have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, so let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 4:1-13
The author of Hebrews addresses the issue of rest. At Creation, God ended with a day of rest, and he wants us to experience that rest. It's only possible if we live our life with God. Instead of being anxious, we should fellowship with God and trust Him, thus experiencing peace beyond all human understanding.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 3:7-19
The author of Hebrews addresses the subject of faith, by recounting the response of the Hebrew generation that experienced deliverance from Egypt. Despite the many miraculous ways that God provided for them, their trust in God kept failing, which resulted in them never reaching the Promised Land. Their faithlessness led them to sin and turn away from God. He has been faithful to us in the past, so we must be sure to trust Him for the future, lest we also slide away and miss the blessings of God.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 3:1-6
The Jews recognized Moses as one of their great ancestors, so the author of Hebrews makes it clear that Jesus is even greater than Moses. Moses was a faithful servant, caring for God's people, but Jesus is faithful as a son, overseeing his Father's house, so we should fix our thoughts on Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 2:5-18
Continuing in our study of Hebrews, we find 5 things that Jesus achieved through His sufferings:
1 - He was glorified; 2 - He was made perfect; 3 - He became our big brother; 4 - He liberated us from the fear of death; 5 - He became our High Priest
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 2:1-4
As we continue the study of Hebrews, we're cautioned to not drift away from the truth of the Gospel. Jesus presented it, others saw and heard him, and many signs and wonders occurred to prove it. Once we've acknowledged it's truth, we cannot justify allowing ourselves to drift from the Gospel being the center of our lives. Beware of distractions.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Hebrews 1:1-14
We began a new sermon series on the book of Hebrews, which will continue for the next several months. The author begins by making it clear that all of history centers around Jesus. He was there when the Earth began. He came to Earth to live among us and then die for our sins. He overcame death and invites us to be with Him forever.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Romans 16:1-16
We're familiar with many of the leaders of the Early Church, like Peter, James, Paul, Timothy, etc., but, as we search the Scriptures, we find dozens of Christians who played a big part in the growth of Christianity. As we explore the long list of faithful individuals, we're reminded that every believer has an important role in furthering the Gospel.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
2 Corinthians 4:18
We live in a spiritual world. The amazing thing is that we can tap into the spiritual world through the Holy Spirit. The supernatural can be part of our everyday life. Expect God to move. Ask Him and listen, and then take the risk.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
2 Corinthians 5:11-21
Because of sin, hostility existed between God and man, but God has sought to reconcile us back to himself through Christ. Once we experience that reconciliation with God, He has committed to us that message of reconciliation, which will also affect our own perspectives on life, as well as our relationships with others.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 24:1-8
We may know of God, but are we experiencing God. As we enter into His presence on our own or with others, are we anticipating our opportunity to worship him and know Him better. We need to be open to the revelation of Him by His Holy Spirit. May we fellowship with Him daily.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Corinthians 9:19-23
When Paul ministered in various locations, he shared the Gospel in a manner that would speak to the culture of that area. We need not compromise the Gospel, but must be a church "incarnate" in our community, being a prophetic voice of the good news of Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 4:23
As we begin a series on Vineyard Values, we consider what Jesus meant by His Kingdom among us. To experience the Kingdom is to live with Jesus as your King. The Kingdom to come is manifest to us and through us now. It has come in power now. Followers of Jesus are to live in the upside-down values of His Kingdom.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 4:23-24 ; Romans 12:1
God desires to fellowship with us. In our gratitude and adoration, we should worship Him at all times. The attitude is more important than the location. Worship Him with all your might, and the way He wants. Worship Him in truth. Offer Him your living sacrifice of worship.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 5:20-21
We embrace God's saving, regenerating grace by recognizing our need for it, then receiving it and living out it's freedom. This best occurs within community. In community, we nurture our relationship with God, we cultivate the fruits of the Spirit, and we seek His guidance and transformation. We extend the community of grace in service to others.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 9:57-10:4
As followers of Jesus, we know we must count the cost, but sometimes we work harder at getting out of situations, when we should be working on how we can get through them. The missional life involves walking with Jesus, and learning from him. He has a purpose for your life, and spiritual disciplines help you keep at it and stay focused.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Genesis 1:26-27
In Genesis we see that humankind was created in God's image, bearing the marks of God, but not being God. Nevertheless, Jesus was the only true human who lived in the sinless humanity designed by God. How do we maintain our humanity in light of Artificial Intelligence? By living a cross-shaped life as Jesus did, serving God and others. Don't let AI consume you.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
As we begin to conclude the series, "Living a Life of Spiritual Renewal", we may ask why we should seek that. Once we recognize our sinfulness and failures, and then grasp the awesome mercy of God shown in the sacrifice of His Son, our gratitude is shown by living a life that is pleasing to Him. It's one that is spiritually renewed daily.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Kings 19:4-12
Jesus found it necessary to seek solitude regularly, to fellowship with the Father and gain strength. He did it when he needed preparation, wisdom, and rest, or when he was in mourning. He also sought solitude when he was caught in busyness, or before important events. Let Jesus be our example. As Elijah of old, listen for God's quiet voice.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
2 Timothy 3:10-17
Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped for the tasks God has for us. As we read the Bible, we need to let the Bible read us.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 20:18-35
As we review how we spend our time during a week, how much was spent serving God and others? In order to impact the lives of others, we need to spend time getting to know them, and seeking to serve them. In the Acts passage, we find Paul speaking of his investment into the lives of those in the early Church.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
2 Corinthians 8:1-12, 9:6-11
An important part of spiritual renewal is Generosity, which is a reflection of God's grace. Jesus was generous, so we should be also. It is sacrificial and always requires faith. Sowing seeds of generosity reaps a generous harvest of joy.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Isaiah 58
As we continue to consider the subject of Fasting, we see in Isaiah 58 that it's more than just a time to grow in holiness and maturity. A natural result of spiritual growth is the desire for justice and mercy for the poor. God calls us to have compassion on the physical needs of others, as well as the spiritual needs.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Matthew 4:1-11
Taking regular time to fast and pray helps our whole person to grow spiritually. 1- it weans us off cycles of pleasure, 2- it helps reveal what is truly in our heart, 3- it helps reorder our priorities, 4- it enables us to draw our power from God to overcome sin. "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 2:1-21
On this Pentecost Sunday, Jay Pathak, the National Director of Vineyard USA, spoke about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, and how the Holy Spirit desires to continue to fill us everyday. We need to draw upon His power to mature as followers of Jesus, and to transform our witness to the world.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
John 3:5-8
There is one God, three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit reveals Himself to us by the life He births in us. The Holy Spirit empowers us, so that He may reveal Himself to others. The Holy Spirit brings us clarity where there is confusion.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Isaiah 58:13-14
Our time of Sabbath rest should be a delight, not a burden. We should delight in the things that delight God. He delights in His Creation, so we should take time to enjoy nature. He delights in His children, so we should spend some time with other believers. He delights in love, justice & righteousness, so we should serve others. Even as He delights in His Son, Jesus, so should we take time with him.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Genesis 2:1-3
Our culture pressures us to be busy. Jesus wants to give us rest. We can experience Jesus more if we set aside some time each week to rest and fellowship with Him. By surrendering a time of contemplation before God, we are renewed physically, mentally, and spiritually. It's a glimpse of eternity.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
2 Corinthians 4:1-18
The temporal things of life will eventually fail. By fixing our eyes on Christ, we're able to be renewed in the unseen things that are eternal. He set the example, by extending grace, choosing a path of vulnerability, and seeking the highest interest of others. That's what is pleasing to God: not power plays, but shepherding hearts.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Deuteronomy 6:1-9
Listening to God is critical to becoming fervent for serving the Lord. It comes by 1) Reading and praying through the Bible, 2) Walking in the Spirit, 3) Inserting yourself into Christian community. If we want spiritual renewal, we must not selectively hear & obey God.
(This recording begins with the pre-sermon worship.)
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Samuel 1:1-20
When we are broken or discouraged, we may find it hard to pray, especially when answers don't come right away. As we study the story of Hannah, we can be encouraged. Brokenness is a yielded heart open before God, emptied of pride and bitterness. We can rediscover God's love, mercy and forgiveness.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ephesians 1:15-23
Mankind is in search of paradise and peace. The death of Jesus on the cross occurred for our sake, yet it was the resurrection that proved the truth and power of Christ. We can walk today in newness of life, because of that resurrection power. We find paradise in Him.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Unfortunately, the YouTube Livestream failed to video the Easter morning service. This audio is the Worship & Children's Lesson preceding the Sermon.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 9:28-48
As we look at the account of Palm Sunday, we see those who recognized Jesus for who he was, and others who did not. The proud religious people resisted the Good News, while the humble experienced it's power. A consistent hunger for Jesus will keep us kingdom-focused and kingdom-powered. Are you desperate for God?
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Acts 12:1-17
We tend to put God in boxes, and forget the mystery of God. That can affect our prayer life. His mysteries are beyond our understanding. After we let God out of our boxes, we become freer in prayer. Our light will stay dim if we don't commit ourselves to ambition in our prayers. The lesson from the passage in Acts opens up endless possibilities for a praying church.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Luke 11:1-13
In order to experience spiritual renewal, we need to take time to talk with God, not just to Him. As we see in the Lord's Prayer, that involves prayers of gratitude, and of lamenting, as well as petitions and intercessions. Be open with Him. Bring all that you have to God.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
James 5:13-18
If we are to experience a life of renewal, we need to be involved in the discipline of prayer. The power of prayer does not reside in the words that we speak or in the rituals we follow, but in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Allow the Spirit of Jesus to move in you as you worship God and intercede for others.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Revelation 3:14-22
As we look at the ministry of Jesus, we see times when people were healed and renewed because of their faith, and times when people walked away empty because they lacked faith. Do you believe He can renew you? He's calling you to be closer to Him, and is knocking on your heart's door. Come into His presence with thanksgiving and faith. Be active in seeking spiritual maturity and renewal. Don't settle for less.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
2 Corinthians 2:12-3:18
In order to experience spiritual renewal, we need to focus on Jesus, not Jesus+. In a world of temporary things, it's only the Word and work of the Lord that stands in permanence. Some things that can veil the work of God are 1) competition with worldly promotions, 2) personality driven ministry, 3) attaching the Gospel to political ideologies. The health of a church is measured by the depth of its desire for Jesus. That brings the hope of renewal.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
1 Samuel 7:2-16
As we see God bringing renewal and revival to universities and churches throughout this nation, we take a moment to look at a time when revival came to the nation of Israel. Repentance of sin, worship of God, and intercession are elements that open our hearts to spiritual revival. May His Spirit move across this nation and the world.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 5:8-20
As we continue to study the issues of life, we are reminded that striving for wealth is meaningless, since it is temporary. The love of money drives us away from loving God. God intended for mankind to work, but to do it as a gift from God. Serving God and others, instead of wealth, is what brings joy and eternal meaning in life.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 5
As we continue "The Search for the Meaning of Life", as related in Ecclesiastes, we see how important it is to be open with God, and to have our commitment to Him be more than just words. He is in heaven, and we are not. He knows us. Let our words be few, and our actions sincere.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 4
As we continue the study of Ecclesiastes, we see the author pointing out that lives of oppression, envy, and radical individualism are all meaningless. He then points out that God's intention is for us to be together with Him and with one another. We then see how the early church sought to follow Jesus in a broken world, and are challenged to pray that our church will follow their example.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmingtonYouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE
Ecclesiastes 3
Through this third chapter we see: 1) everything has it's time, 2) God will eventually make everything beautiful, 3) we have a hard time understanding God, 4) He is sovereign. As a result, we should have courage, and face our seasons with faith.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Ecclesiastes 2
As we continue the search for life's meaning, we move on to chapter 2 of Ecclesiastes. The author lists the endless amount of possessions and positions he has, and concludes that they are all meaningless without God, since we can't take them with us when we pass. Turn from a life of consumerism to a life of consuming God.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Ecclesiastes 1
We begin a new series based on Ecclesiastes, entitled "Searching for the Meaning of Life". As the author reflects on that question, he finds that life is meaningless if based on the routines, memories and wisdom of the world. We then see throughout Scripture, our life does have eternal meaning, if we see things through the eyes of Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 11:28-30
As we enter the new year, we are reminded to take time to rest. If we don't, we can become anxious and unfruitful in our Christian walk. God rested on the seventh day of Creation, and exhorts us to do the same. Build into your life a time of rest, a time to focus on your relationship with Christ. Shift from restlessness to restfulness.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Luke 2:8-20
As we conclude the series on those who encountered the coming Christ, we see how the King of the Universe revealed himself to humble shepherds. It was appropriate, since throughout the Hebrew scriptures, Jesus was referred to as the Shepherd King, who will provide all that we need.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 2:1-12
The Magi were important principles in the Christmas story. They studied the stars and the prophecies regarding a promised Messiah, and then risked travel over many weeks to find him. He was the hope of the nations. As we diligently seek the Messiah, God will lead us to Him.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 1:18-25
Joseph's life around the birth of Jesus shows how God's work in and through our lives is often up against the cultural norms of society. Despite adversity, he pressed on in faith. God's work at Christmas and Easter provides a hope that allows us to persevere through difficulties.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Luke 1:26-56
God seeks to give His people unmerited grace and favor to all play a part in the Good News of His Kingdom breaking into this world. How will you respond if God calls you to show grace and favor to someone? When God showed it to Mary, she responded in humility, passing blessing on to all who believe.
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Luke 1:5-7,23-25,39-45
The next encounter with the coming Christ that we study is Elizabeth. In response to God's answering her prayers for a child, she remained humble, and then reached out to bless Mary. Life Lessons from Elizabeth: 1) Be patient and don't lose hope; 2) Be generous, and a blessing to others
Website: immanuelde.comFacebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Luke 1
As we begin the Advent Series, "Encounters with the Coming Christ", we examine the story of Zechariah. We see that his faithful prayers and service resulted in God's answer. We can learn 2 things from Zechariah's life: 1) keep praying, and don't lose hope, 2) Live in faith that God is present with us.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Haggai 2:10-23
As we conclude our study of Haggai, we see God promising blessing when the heart of the people changed, even though they had not finished the task of rebuilding the Temple. When we have a heart oriented toward God, the cross's power is found and He unleashes His blessing. In this way, we can resist casual Christianity.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Haggai 2:1-9
Though we know we need to grow in Christ, sometimes we get stuck in 1) Enjoy the good ol' days Christianity, 2) Read more books Christianity, 3) Cruise Control Christianity, or 4) Spiritually powerless Christianity. Instead, we should 1) Become more aware of His presence now, for He is with you, 2) Find hope in the past, and 3) Find hope in the future.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Haggai 1:1-15
We begin a 3-part series on the Old Testament book of Haggai, which describes the circumstances surrounding the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. As we see the attitudes and lifestyle of the Jewish people, and God's call for them to rebuild, we can see parallels to our tendency to be casual Christians, and God's call to us to not settle for anything less than His daily presence in our lives.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Ephesians 3:16-19
As we conclude the series on "Christ, the Kingdom, and Culture", we see how the Gospel can speak to the issue of mental health. Many individuals mentioned in Scripture wrestled with times of discouragement and depression. We examine how God ministered to Elijah during those times. See how God can help you think better and behave better, so you can eventually feel better.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Luke 5:27-32
The church of Jesus is to be a hospital. Sinners saved by grace helping sinners find mercy, love and grace. Jesus was a friend of sinners. We should not only preach the Gospel of Jesus, but practice it as He did. We look at the issue of abortion. We may stand against it, but does the world see the church as a place to find love and hope. We must be pro-life for the born, as well as the unborn.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Romans 2:4
As we interact with our culture, Christians should seek to represent God's kindness and grace. As people struggle with issues in life, some raise the question of gender identity, with hopes of "fixing" what is broken. Scripture makes it clear that God created us as male or female. It's sanctification that enables us to become all that God created us to be, not the world's attempts to relieve our struggles. Even so, we need to have empathy towards others. Listen to their stories, and be available to give them hope in their struggles with identity.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 10:11
As we continue to examine how Christ's church can minister in today's culture, we get insight on ministry within our city. We must take time with the people, strategize in the context of how they live, and then be patient. Take time to plant, water, and nurture the seeds of the Gospel.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
John 10:7-10
We begin a series, "Christ, the Kingdom, and Culture". It will seek to equip us with Biblical resources to navigate our faith in modern times. This week, we see that Jesus gave us a theology of life that breaks into this world of sin. It involves navigating life with grace and truth, so we can handle our culture responsibly.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 28:18-20
As we conclude the 3 part series on being followers of Jesus, we look at His last words to His disciples. We should not just rest in the knowledge of the Good News, but share it with others, have them baptized as evidence of their resurrected life, and teach them how to be His disciples.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 28:18-20
As we conclude the 3 part series on being followers of Jesus, we look at His last words to His disciples. We should not just rest in the knowledge of the Good News, but share it with others, have them baptized as evidence of their resurrected life, and teach them how to be His disciples.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
John 15:5
We look back to the beginning when Jesus first began calling people to follow Him. We see that the early followers spent time being with Jesus, then doing the same things that he did. They lived like Jesus. As followers of Jesus, does being "with Jesus" and "like Jesus" characterize our lives today?
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
John 15:5
We look back to the beginning when Jesus first began calling people to follow Him. We see that the early followers spent time being with Jesus, then doing the same things that he did. They lived like Jesus. As followers of Jesus, does being "with Jesus" and "like Jesus" characterize our lives today?
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 28:18-20
We begin a 3 part series , "Live It Out", on our Church Mission Statement. Pastor Daniel introduces it and then passes it to Pastor Will to address the issue of discipleship. Christians are called to be disciples and disciplers, following Christ's commands and living life to be conformed to His image. May our lives bear witness of the love of Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 28:18-20
We begin a 3 part series , "Live It Out", on our Church Mission Statement. Pastor Daniel introduces it and then passes it to Pastor Will to address the issue of discipleship. Christians are called to be disciples and disciplers, following Christ's commands and living life to be conformed to His image. May our lives bear witness of the love of Jesus.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
2 Timothy 4:1-5
Healthy Bible Teaching: 1) leads us to a God-centered life, and not a me-centered life, 2) promotes the love of God and the love of neighbor, 3) leads us to a Spirit-filled, Spirit-led life that conforms our will to that of God, 4) produces and cultivates in us the Fruit of the Spirit.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
1 Samuel 17:32-37
As we continue the series, "Shaped by Jesus", we consider those things that leave us in awe. Being enraptured by God is a way to remove the tyranny of the ego. David's awe of God gave him courage to go against Goliath, who's awe was in himself. As we become more in awe of God, our faith increases. Behold His Wonders.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Ephesians 2:1-10
As we begin a short series, "Shaped By Jesus", we consider the stories that shape us. As we seek for transformation in our journey, we find ourselves helpless without supernatural help. God reached out to us to bring fulfillment. Our story must be blended with that of Jesus. Paul describes the Christian's journey and its benefits. What story is shaping you?
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Luke 15:11-24
The prodigal son left his father to search for meaning and fulfillment in his life, but discovered that it wasn't in the world. As he returned, he experienced the love and acceptance he desired. We find meaning as we realize we were created to have an intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
James 3:13-18
After Solomon's reign in Israel, the nation was divided between two kings: Jeroboam in Israel in the North, and Rehoboam in Judah in the South. We study 1 Kings 12-14, and learn of their decisions and the consequences. We learn from their bad examples of what can happen when we fail to seek and follow God's direction. May we seek God's wisdom through His Word and wise counsel.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Luke 4:18-21
As we conclude the series "People Together With God", we review the central core of Christianity, which is the Good News. We examine the story behind the Good News, as Jesus describes in this Luke passage. Our responsibility is to make known the good news of the Gospel in both word and deed.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Acts 4:32-5:11
We look at the need for truth telling as people devoted to Jesus together - and how, if we do truly live as a truth-telling family to one another, not only will we experience a deeper closeness with God and one another, but we will be shining as a light in a nation that is looking for a trust worthy people.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
John 6:1-58
As we look at the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand with only 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish, we see Jesus make it clear that he not only meets our physical needs, but he fulfills our spiritual needs. He was not looking for political fame, but humbly revealed that he is the source of abundant life, as well as eternal life.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
2 Corinthians 1:3-7
Once we are united with God through Christ, our life is not our own. Whatever we receive from God is to be passed on to others. His river of life is to flow through us into those we meet. As you receive comfort, compassion and power, allow the Holy Spirit to manifest them through you.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Galatians 4:6-7
In order for us to interact with God and with people, we must recognize our identity in Christ. When we accept Christ's sacrifice for us, we are adopted into His family, and become heirs to His Kingdom and His Spirit. As we realize our identity in Him, we are able to engage the world, even in these uncertain times.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Luke 10:25-37
As we look at the Parable of the Good Samaritan, we see that the man's action went beyond simple compassion. He willingly took on the burdens of someone else. It cost him time and finances, and he was willing to get his hands dirty to care for him. Compassion can also have an emotional toll, but Jesus made it clear that there are eternal rewards.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
1 Corinthians 4
Are you free of other people's opinion of you, or your opinion of yourself? There's a way of life that allows Jesus and His acceptance and love for us to provide the freedom to no longer live for the opinion of others, but only as faithful servants and stewards of Jesus. As we live with that freedom, we discover the spiritual and life-altering power of the Kingdom of God in our own lives.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
John 15:9-17
We begin looking at the Biblical vision of people being together with God. God created us to fellowship with Him, but desires to see us loving others also. To Jesus, friendship means being willing to lay down our lives for others. That doesn't mean simply accepting their "authentic self", but being willing to minister to their true needs.
This sermon was cut short due to a small fire emergency.
All is well.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
John 4:1-30
Worship is another aspect of our relationship with God. When Jesus meets the woman at the well, we see that nobody who meets Jesus stays the same. We learn that God seeks after us. Our response should be a life of worship, recognizing the Spirit's presence with us.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Colossians 3:17
Our relationship with God involves rest, work, worship and prayer. Work is what we do during the day. We are called to do everything for God in word and deed. God's work in this world needs to be reflected in our work in the world. We should reflect God's goodness, love and grace in all we do. The Gospel provides a purpose for our life.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Hebrews 3:7-4:16
After Creation, God rested, and Eden was a place where man experienced God's presence. Sin then separated us from the rest that comes with His presence, but Christ's sacrifice has made it possible to experience it again. Are you too maxed out with activity to have a Sabbath rest? Trust in God's faithfulness and love, and take time to rest.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Luke 11:1-13
As we continue the sermon series, "People Together with God", we explore prayer as our connection with God. In Luke's account of the Lord's Prayer, we identify what should be the content of prayer, and then consider our expectations of response to our prayers. He promises provision, forgiveness, and the coming of His Kingdom.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
John 13:35
We begin a new sermon series "People Together with God". We were created to fellowship with God, but sin broke that connection. As a result, we are missing the eternal. Nevertheless, Jesus reconciled us back to God. Are we sharing our lives with each other as Jesus shared his life with us? We need to ignite the witness of the Church.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
John 21:1-19
As we conclude a miniseries surrounding the resurrection of Jesus, we see Jesus inviting the disciples to eat breakfast with him on shore, after the miraculous catch of fish. Having proved his resurrection, he takes time for final interaction with his disciples. The resurrected Jesus is still in the business of encountering people every day.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
John 20:19-31
After the resurrection of Jesus, the disciples still gathered in a locked room out of fear, until Jesus appeared and showed them his wounds. Thomas was not present then, and also expressed doubt when they told him about it. Jesus appeared again and made a point to address Thomas, showing him as well. Despite our questions and doubts, Jesus will make himself known to us.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 28:1-10
Jesus came to give us a glimpse of heaven: love, grace, healing, and so much more. Because of His death and resurrection, it became available to us. The Gospel of Jesus gives us an opportunity to participate in a new story, with a new identity. By dying to our own will, and seeking to follow God's will, we can experience resurrection life.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 21:1-16
As Jesus made his way into Jerusalem on a donkey's back, the people thought he would be a king to set them free from Roman rule. Instead, he made it clear that he was fulfilling the prophesies of a spiritual Kingdom.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 18:1-5
Ancient and current societies urge people to excel to be the greatest. Jesus turns it around and challenges us to humble ourselves before others, even as He did. There's little satisfaction if we seek to exalt ourselves, but fulfillment comes when we exalt others. Such is the Kingdom of Heaven.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 13:51-52
Throughout Scripture we are told to remember: Remember God's faithfulness; Remember those treasured moments. And yet we are also told to allow the Holy Spirit to lead us to new treasured moments and adventures. Allow the blessings of the past to give you an excitement for His work in the future.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 13:44-46
When Jesus gives the Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Parable of the Priceless Pearl, he challenges all of us to consider what is of value and meaning to us. As followers of Jesus, we should be willing to place our primary focus in life on the riches of the Kingdom, the eternal treasures.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 13:24-43
In this parable, Jesus addresses a field that is filled with good wheat seed, but becomes infiltrated with "fake wheat". It may look the same, but is damaging to those who partake. It is separated at the harvest time. So also, Satan can bring his evil influence into the Church, but when God harvests, the good wheat ends up in Heaven, while the "fake wheat", in Hell.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 13:1-23
As we continue to seek to understand the Kingdom of God, we begin to explore the parables of Jesus. In the Parable of the Sower, he emphasizes the importance of being "good soil" when receiving the Word of God. If we get distracted, we run the risk of becoming callous to God's will, and losing out on God's riches.
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 11
As we continue to study the Kingdom teachings of Jesus, we see him pointing out to the crowd that they missed the signs of the Kingdom. His life was fulfilling the ancient scriptures that pointed to a spiritual Kingdom. He then comforts us with the assurance that He will be with us through all our trials.
(includes Kingdom stories from Caitlin Morris.)
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 4:18-25
As we look at Jesus's understanding of the Kingdom of God, we find that he sees healing as a big part of it. After being baptized and then tempted by Satan in the wilderness, he began to choose his disciples. Wherever they went, Jesus brought healing to people as a manifestation of the Kingdom. We should continue his ministry of healing by praying for those in need.
(includes Kingdom stories from Derek & Renie Forsberg.)
Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 3:1-12
We continue the new sermon series, "The Kingdom of God: Christ, His Church, His Kingdom". This week, we see Jesus making his appearance to John the Baptist. Although John knew who he was, the people did not, since they were looking for a regal King. Are we prepared to recognize Jesus, the King, in unexpected places and in unexpected ways? The sermon concluded with an interview with Dino & MaryAnn Medori, as they shared testimonies of God's work in their lives. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Matthew 4:23
We began a new sermon series, "The Kingdom of God: Christ, His Church, His Kingdom". This week, Pastor gave a basic introduction to understanding the Kingdom of God. It is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Wherever the Kingdom of God is manifest, you will find: 1 - God's kingly rule, power, authority, glory and majesty 2 - Satan's kingdom is being overthrown 3 - Childlike qualities are found The sermon concluded with an interview with Will & Rosa Donato, as they shared testimonies of God's work in their lives. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington
Sermon Series: What is a Healthy Church? Week 4: A Healthy Church is Generous (2 Corinthians 9:6-15)
This sermon is from January 30th, 2022. For more information, please visit immanuelde.com.
Sermon Series: What Is a Healthy Church? Week 3: A Healthy Church Prays (Psalm 62)
This sermon is from January 20th, 2022. For more information, please visit immanuelde.com
Sermon Series: What is a Healthy Church? Week 2: Community with One Another (Romans 15:1-7)
This sermon is from January 16th, 2022. For more information, please visit immanuelde.com
Sermon Series: What is a Healthy Church? Week 1: Don't Empty the Cross of its Power
This sermon is from January 9th, 2022. For more information, please visit immanuelde.com
Sermon Text: Psalm 90:12
This sermon is from January 2, 2022. For more information, please visit immanuelde.com.
This is our sermon from Christmas Eve, 2021. For more information about our church, please visit immanuelde.com.
"The Joy of Jesus" by Pastor Will Donato, sermon from December 19, 2021. For more information about Immanuel Church, please visit immanuelde.com.
This is our sermon from December 12, 2021. For more information about Immanuel Church, please visit immanuelde.com
Isaiah 9:6-7
During this Christmas season, we are reminded that Jesus is the Prince of Peace, the representation of peace. This peace means completeness, that all is as it should be. We first look at scriptures that speak of the coming age when He will bring total peace to this world, as God had designed it. We then see how we are to be peacemakers, setting an example of what will come.
Romans 5:1-5
As we begin the Advent series, "Good News in Troubled Times", we look at instances of hope in scripture. We see in Genesis that, despite man's exile from the Garden, God was still accessible. Later, Jesus brought the hope of divine justice. Because justice was poured out on Jesus, we have grace and forgiveness. And finally, because of the presence of the Holy Spirit, we have hope and the assurance that God will make everything right.
Ephesians 5:15-6:9
We are not our own, but we belong to God. Jesus is our reference point for living. It involves yielding to the will or needs of others. In these passages, we see that roadmap: submission to the Holy Spirit, mutual submission to one another, and application in our marriage, our parenting, and our workplace.
Romans 6:1-10
Before baptizing individuals in the service, we look at the historical and spiritual aspects of water baptism. We see that it is more than symbolic of Christ's death and resurrection. The Spirit of God empowers us to put aside the old ways of sin, and to walk in the new life in Christ.
Ephesians 5:1-14
We are called to live in the image of Christ. It's a life of love, thinking more of others than of ourselves, and avoiding immoral, impure and selfish acts. This can only be accomplished by asking the Holy Spirit to fill us and guide us daily.
Ephesians 4:17-32
Paul has shared what our calling is as Christians, and how we should walk worthy of that calling. In this passage of his letter to the Ephesians, he addresses the characteristics of our old life, and the qualities that should be manifest in our new life in Christ. We need to be transformed as individuals and as a community.
Ephesians 4:1-16
God has called the Church to share the Gospel of Jesus. He has given us gifts to help accomplish that, but He also expects us to exhibit love, humility, patience and unity. As we unite around the basics of the Gospel, we become mature and effective witnesses of that Good News.
Ephesians 3
The Good News is that Jesus Christ shed His blood for our sake, so that we all can share together in His promises, when we trust in that sacrifice. As Paul tells of his calling to share this Gospel to the world, he challenges us to do the same, telling the world about God's amazing love and mercy.
Ephesians 2:11-22
The Gospel is a call to radical living. Since we are reconciled to God through Christ, we should actively seek reconciliation in areas of our life. As we live out the Good News of Jesus, we can see the breaking down of walls of hostility between us and others.
Ephesians 2:1-10
As Paul continues his letter to the Ephesians, he reminds us that our sins and transgressions sentence us to be separated from God for eternity, but that, by God's grace, we are reconciled to Him, when we place our faith in the sacrifice of Christ for us.
Ephesians 1:15-23
As we continue in our study of Ephesians, Paul gives a long prayer for the believers to really know God; to know the hope we can find in Him, as well as His power. Knowing more about Him brings knowledge, but knowing Him means a true relationship with Him.
Ephesians 1:1-14
As we begin the study of Ephesians, we see the blessings of being known by God. That leads to the revelation of God's redemption in Christ and the final plans for all things. The passage concludes with the promise of our inheritance as sons and daughters of God our Father.
Immanuel Church is located in Wilmington, Delaware. If you would like more information, please visit immanuelde.com
Nehemiah 2
Scott Ball, from the Malphurs Group, takes us through the experience of Nehemiah, as he seeks to see the damaged walls of Jerusalem rebuilt. Though the possibility seemed improbable, the Lord provided a way. He promised that, if they would do the work, he would bring success. So we also can know success as we step out to rebuild areas that are broken and need God's restoration.
2 Samuel 12:1-17
We review the account of David's sins, and his effort to hide the truth. When confronted by the prophet, he admits his sin. Though he and his family suffered the consequences, he still received grace from God. Jesus is found wherever truth is found, and grace must be found where truth-telling is found. The church of Christ should be a community of truth and grace.
Revelation 21
As we conclude the series, "God, Life, and Our Expectations", we consider John's account in Revelation 21, when he speaks of the Age to come. We see how the Earth (the "city of man") has been filled with sin and evil, but that there will come a day when it will be replaced by the City of God. We should live each day as citizens of that coming kingdom, seeking to draw others in.
Matthew 24
When studying Biblical prophecy, we need to be aware that part of it is directed to those present at the time, part of it is referring to the specific events, and some is directed to those in between time who will be waiting for the fulfillment. In Matthew 24, Jesus makes it clear that we won't know the specific time of His return, but to always be prepared, and to avoid those who deceive.
1 Corinthians 12
We explore the reasons the Spirit of God needs to fill us as a Christian community. Each person has gifts, and the Spirit enables us to be interdependent. It's the Spirit that knits us together as one Body of Christ. The gifts are for the purpose of ministry to others.
Psalm 127
As we continue the series, "God, Life, and our Expectations", we look at our lives at work and at home. As we seek fulfillment in each part of our life, are we building it with our own strength and desires, or are we leaning on God? Unless the Lord is in it, we labor in vain.
Ephesians 5:15-33
As Paul exhorts the Ephesian Church to holy living, avoiding evil and being filled with the Spirit, he takes time to address how this can be manifested in marriage. He speaks to the individual responsibilities of husbands and wives, but makes it clear that the underlying guidance comes from the Christian call to humility and servanthood. Each should seek to see the other edified.
Hebrews 12:1-2
What are we to expect of our Christian witness in 2021? Are we admirers of Christ or followers? We look at examples of the three ingredients for a bold witness: faith in His promises, courage despite the cost, and Christ's love for the lost. May we run with endurance as we seek to share the Gospel to the world.
Exodus 16
We study the experience of the Israelites in the wilderness as it relates to our interactions with God. If we only communicate in prayer when times are hard, we may have false expectations of what God will do. When they asked for provision, they most likely didn't expect daily manna, yet God provided. If we fellowship with God daily, we will find peace in whatever way He responds.
Isaiah 55
We explore the power of the Word of God. As we feed on His Word, our souls are filled with life and joy. His ways are not our ways, but they reveal His mercy and grace, if we're willing to seek after Him while we still can. Don't miss out on His purposes.
Galatians 5:13
On this Fourth of July, we reflect on the matter of freedom. The dictionary, and modern society, see it as enabling individuals to do as they please, regardless of the consequences. However, the Scriptures make it clear that we are in bondage to sin and self-interest. By faith in the work of Christ on the cross, we have true freedom and power to resist sin, and to serve others.
Psalm 115
To what things do we give our greatest attention? Is it our job, family, money, pleasure? We often give our worship to idols such as these, when our full attention should be toward Jesus and His ways. When our sight is on the Light, we see the world as it truly is, and can then positively impact every other area of our life.
Psalm 2
We are barraged with national and international news, and we reflect on how the Body of Christ can have an impact. But, as we continue our summer series, we consider the expectations of how the Church is to make an impact on local communities. If we reflect the life of Christ to our neighbors, we can change our local community, which can in turn affect our nation.
2 Corinthians 12:1-10
As we continue the series "God, Life and Our Expectations", we explore the subject of suffering and it's impact on us. Suffering has always been a part of life since the Fall in the Garden of Eden. Jesus experienced God's grace in the midst of his suffering, and thus proved that we too can experience resurrection life. His grace is sufficient for us, and His power is manifested in our weakness.
Matthew 16:13-28
We begin a new summer sermon series entitled "God, Life, and Our Expectations". As we look at Matthew 16, we find Peter having an incorrect understanding of who Jesus was. Initially, he did not understand that Jesus was to be a suffering Savior, before becoming a conquering King. In today's world, many err in their understanding of His purposes. We must manifest Jesus as patient ambassadors of the truth, not hammers of truth. Let love reign.
Jonah 4:1-11
As we conclude our study of Jonah, we see him experiencing spiritual disillusionment. Though he knew God was real, things didn't happen the way he expected from Him. Instead, God exposed his weaknesses, so he could become more like Him. As we seek to embrace God, we'll find that we may not understand His ways, but we can trust His heart.
Jonah 3:1-10
Once Jonah was thrown from the fish, he obeyed God's command to go to Nineveh to warn them of their destruction, if they did not repent. Amazingly, these hated enemies of Israel, responded by turning from their wicked ways, and God chose not to destroy them. God's desire is to reconcile mankind to Himself. So, we too should love and pray for our enemies, and seek their redemption.
Jonah 2:1-10
As we continue the study of Jonah, we find him praying inside the fish. He recounts how God showed His mercy by bringing him low, and then rescuing him. We see elsewhere in Scripture how God speaks and dispels darkness: at Creation, with Jonah, with Lazarus, and at Christ's resurrection. God can speak life into our chaos.
Jonah 1:1-17
We begin a series of sermons on Jonah, entitled "God's Relentless Grace". As a prophet, Jonah was used by God to speak to His people, yet we find him resisting God's call to go to Ninevah. Despite this, God pursues him, and still wants to use him. If we run from God's purposes for us, we'll never be satisfied, but His love will always pursue us.
John 13:1-17
As Jesus gathered with the disciples for the Passover Feast, he began by washing their feet. He wanted to make it clear that this humble act of service was setting an example for all who follow Him. He came to love and to serve mankind, and we should do the same. The world will know we are His followers by our love.
2 Corinthians 5:11-21
As we conclude the series on "Making All Things New", we look at Paul's second letter to the church in Corinth. He addresses what the Church should look like and how it should work. We represent God's work on Earth now, so we should be reconciled to Him, in order to fulfill the work He has for all of us today.
John 21
As we continue to review the events following the resurrection, we see Jesus appearing to the disciples for the third time. Jesus takes time to address Peter. As a result, Peter moves from regret for having denied Jesus, to experiencing His love. It emboldens him to eventually preach to the crowds on Pentecost. May we see this love and forgiveness flow within the Body of Christ, as well.
John 20:1-31
As we study John's account of the events surrounding the resurrection of Jesus, we discover three different Greek words for "saw". When Mary saw the empty tomb, it was the physical act of seeing. When Peter saw inside the tomb, he took thoughtful attention to the details. When John entered the tomb, he saw and believed. He realized what had occurred. We may not have physically seen Him, but we see by faith in His Word.
Luke 24:1-12
We continue the series "Making All Things New", by looking at meanings of the resurrection of Jesus: 1) We can receive a "do over", a new start to our life; 2) Rivers of living water can flow out of us through His Spirit; 3) We can be raised with Him today and forever; 4) His victory over death means nothing can separate us from God's love.
Matthew 21:1-16
We begin a new sermon series entitled "Making All Things New". On Palm Sunday, Pastor Dan addressed the events surrounding Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem, when the people proclaimed Him as king. Unfortunately, they didn't realize He was a different King than they expected.
Matthew 7:13-29
As Jesus concluded his Sermon on the Mount, he told us to beware of false prophets, whose motives are centered on themselves, and to examine our own motives as well. He then made it clear that our lives can flourish if we put into practice all that he had been teaching.
Matthew 7:1-12
Jesus addresses our tendency to judge the actions and motives of others. We are reminded that we all have sinned, and should not be so quick to judge. He offers a message of grace. We need to be grateful for the grace God offers to us for our sins, and be a people of humility and grace toward others.
Matthew 6:19-34
When we focus our lives on possessions, ambitions, and pleasure, we set ourselves up for anxiety when things don't develop as we would like. Jesus addresses this issue as he continues his sermon, and makes it clear that focusing on God and His ways will relieve stress and will lead to eternal provision.
Matthew 6:1-18
As Jesus continues to speak to the crowd, he addresses the motivations of our heart. When we give of our means, or pray and fast, do we do it for public approval, and make sure everyone knows what we're doing, or are we truly motivated to sincerely love God and love people, needing no public recognition?
Matthew 5:31-48
As Jesus continues His sermon on the mount, he addresses issues of divorce, oaths, revenge, and relationships, by promoting marriage, integrity, forgiveness and grace, all of which will lead to human flourishing.
Matthew 5:17-30
As Jesus continues His sermon on the mount, He makes it clear that He did not come to abolish the laws that God had previously laid down, but that they continue to have their purpose of revealing man's sinful nature. We all fall short. His purpose in coming was to be the one who could perfectly fulfill the Law, and eventually reunite us with God the Father.
Matthew 5:13-16
Pastor Dan continues the series on the Sermon on the Mount by examining the challenge from Jesus for His followers to be salt and light in this world. Even as salt and light penetrate and affect where they appear, we too should impact the world with the truth and message of the Gospel. May our words and deeds exemplify the life of Christ.
Matthew 5:1-12
Pastor Dan begins a series on The Sermon on the Mount by addressing the Beatitudes. Jesus presents the characteristics that lead to a flourishing life, including meekness, hunger for righteousness, mercy, purity, peacemaking, and more. As we humble ourselves before God and man, we will flourish.
This brief mid-week sermon guides us through some potential dangers that can arise during this unique season of Covid as we try to continue Christian community at Immanuel Church
James 1:1-4
The apostle James challenges the early church to understand that the trials in life develop spiritual maturity, if we persevere in faith. We can rejoice in God, because the testing of our faith becomes a means to grow in our understanding of God and His purposes. As we see Him move in each trial, we're better able to face the future.
2 Timothy 4:1-4
Paul's exhortation to Timothy applies to all of us. We should be ready at any time to minister God's Word. It's important to believe and live sound doctrine, so we don't get swept into deception and false doctrine. The basics of sound doctrine involve sacrifice, humility, and endurance.
Luke 9:20-36
Stephen begins by explaining the circumstances before the Transfiguration, then shows how the response of the disciples can be a lesson to all of us. When we set our minds on the things of man and not the ways of God, we can miss the fullness of the glory of Jesus. We need to listen, to see the bigger picture.
Matthew 1:18-25; 2:13-23
Sometimes Joseph's role in the birth and early life of Jesus is overlooked. Elder Joel Porter shows the important lessons we can learn from him. As a righteous man, he wrestled with how to handle Mary's divine pregnancy, but once the angel explained it, he obeyed. As Joseph continued to discern and obey God's direction for their lives, so we too should learn to hear and obey God's voice.
Luke 2:1-21
On Christmas Eve, Pastor Dan spoke about sacredness. Sacred moments of life are gifts from God to show us His awesome presence. In the midst of a sinful world, they offer a glimpse of a new way of living. In the darkness of 2020, light can still be found. Will you allow the sacredness of this time to be a source of hope for 2021?
Matthew 2:1-12
In seeking to explain further the circumstances surrounding the journey that the Magi took to find baby Jesus, Pastor Dan explains it in modern day terms. Jesus was born in an unexpected place and worshipped first by unexpected people. Where are you searching for the Prince of Peace? Do you need to be redirected to where this humble and lowly Savior can be found? Also, are you generous with your love and gifts, as you serve the King of kings?
Luke 2:21-39
This week we explore the hope of Anna and Simeon, two aged individuals who were faithfully devoted to the Lord. That devotion enabled them to recognize baby Jesus as the promised Messiah. Like them, we must always be embracing God's plan, and prepared to submit to His purposes, so we're ready for the new thing that he does in our lives.
Many of us will be struggling with Christmas season with fewer family and friends around our dinning room tables and in our living room. How are we going to cope with the challenges ahead? In this devotional, we take a quick look at Elijah's story as we discuss mental health and the incarnation, and we look ahead to the next episode when we will look at the need to develop life-giving habits with our minds "set on things above" (Colossians 3:1) this Christmas season and beyond.
Today we are going to talk about isolation and Advent. Since we are in this pandemic, and since isolation has been more of a part of lives than perhaps we would have liked in 2020, I figured that an Advent devotional that deals exactly with this topic would be helpful. Most of our family Christmases will be smaller as our Thanksgiving already was. I am anticipating the sadness of that time to really hit us hard in the coming weeks, and what better way to prepare to face this than to take a deep look at Scripture, at its story, and try to face the coming holiday isolation from events that we are very accustomed to every Christmas. Just last year, I took my daughter Lydia for her December birthday to Charles Dickens land at the Macy's in Philadelphia, took her afterwards to enjoy an authentic Philly cheese steak, to top it off with seeing a play at the Arden Theatre in old city. This year, there was no ability to have a daddy daughter date. I’m sure you have a story that you can look back on from last year in December and identify many different things that you always do that you cannot do this year – and the common theme with them all is yet more staying at home, more social distancing – more social isolation than we are accustomed to.
Christianity and the Scriptures indeed have a lot to say about this topic. In this devotion, I want to work through a “biblical theology” of isolation as through the story of Scripture, as well as some systematic study peppered in concerning this theme.
To begin with, at the very beginning of our Bibles, we see that everything begins with a God who is single, yet plural. And even in the very beginning verses of our Scriptures, we find that God was not alone. In and of himself, he is one, yet three. He is not alone by nature of himself. God is not a God who isolates. In fact, by his nature that is a sheer impossibility. “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth… the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the deep, and God said, “let there be light…”
Robert Alter in his translation work on Genesis gives us another way to read this verse: “the breath of God was hovering over the waters” – the Hebrew word for spirit is the same for breath. “And God said…” gives us the image that God almost “breathed out” creation, as he spoke it into existence.
Knowing John 1, “In the beginning was the WORD….” And Hebrews 1 says “all things were created through him” that is, Jesus. God in his single-plurality is at work even in the first chapter of the book.
Yet Adam was created alone, initially. It was not until some recognition in Genesis 2 that him being alone was not good. He was with the animals as he named them, but as he looked around, he realized there was not anything really quite like himself, and even with the company of animals, he was alone.
Then along came Eve, and it was then that Adam was no longer alone. Then, even in their togetherness – like God, they would also become one in the union of marriage, Genesis 2:24 – “The two shall become one flesh.” So far, we see God in community with himself, and people in community with one another – and both God and humankind together in Eden.
The serpent’s work in Genesis 3 had the effect of turning everyone against one another. And what you find is essentially a natural desire to isolate from one another after sin entered into our story. Adam and Eve, due to their nakedness, hid from God. Isolation. They were scared of him, fearful probably of his judgment when the sound of his approach was heard in Genesis 3:8.
Isolation was due to the Fall – isolation from God. And the curse as it entered would have the effect of Eve desiring power over and against her husband, but he shall have it over his wife. The implication being in Genesis 3:16 conflicts of power and authority between man and woman – further relationally isolating one from the other.
Then we have exile: exile is the ultimate isolation from God, as they were kicked out of the Garden. The theme of exile is continually found throughout the Scriptures. So isolation from God is a judgment from God. We were intended to be physically with him. And when we cannot be, we can call that judgment.
Now, I can’t make this be an hour long by any means – but if we trace this further down in the Scriptures, we find that this exile theme is powerful. Sin has essentially sent this whole world into exile from God, and humans, even though we by nature desire to be with one another, are up and against one another. Violence is just another attempt to isolate yourself from someone else – like Cain did with Abel. His jealousy created in him a world where he could not imagine living in with his own brother anymore – and as with all violence, the goal is either the removal of that individual, punishment or something they have done, or a power-play to control someone else. The lack of equality amongst people, in other words, are just other versions of isolation, one of the major results of sin in this world.
And with our final theological observation: here we find at the core of intentional social isolation: a self-serving desire. Tremper Longman, in his masterful commentary on Proverbs, translated Proverbs 18:1 like this:
“The Antisocial seek their own longings, they break out against all resourcefulness.” (most translations have “whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire…”) with the idea being that when we push people out of our lives and keep them from being equal to us in brother and sisterhood, we are rejecting whatever accountability that might come from their presence in our lives. There is something you want that perhaps you know is destroying you, but you don’t care, and you know that if other people were in your life enough to see it, they would call you out on it in love, and you don’t want that. I’ve seen many a good friendship succumb to this, and many a solid relationship fall apart in like manner.
So where does Advent come into this? And now that you understand how isolation is not part of God’s design for this life – isolation from him or from people – how do we respond when in a pandemic for our own safety that we must isolate more than ever before?
God’s answer to humanity’s sinful condition, of isolation from him, of ultimately being in a permanent state of exile from God due to our sin, as Isaiah said explicitly, “But your iniquities have built barriers between you and your God, and your sins have made Him hide His face from you so that He does not listen” (Isaiah 59:2).
Advent is God’s response by actually, intentionally entering into our world as one of us. He broke our isolation from him by joining us. We didn’t really invite him. In fact, when he showed up, ultimately we were looking for someone else. That’s why we crucified him. But still God chose to chase after us and end this isolation from himself by joining us, walking around with us, taking on skin and bones like you and I, and actually becoming the Son of Man, or the Human – the True Human. He actually had a life that Adam should have lived, but sinned, a life that is representative of TRUE humanity and how things should have been.
Advent then reminds us of the lengths God went to actually be with us. It shows just how far he was willing to go to bring us back to himself. And it serves as our example to how far we should go to chase after those people who themselves do not know how much God loves them.
As we close, I am now going to address this pandemic. If isolation is part of sin, often associated with selfish desires, often a mechanism in which we can further ‘do as we please’ without the restrictive input or restraint that may come from others, or especially the judgment from God himself; if we can clearly establish the difficulty it is of actually flourishing in an anti-human state of isolation, how do we flourish in a time when we must? Especially, in contradiction, in the time of a holiday when we actually gather together often to celebrate God gathering himself to humanity through the first Advent, through his incarnation – can we really do this in an unusual state of isolation and expect to flourish?
I don’t know. I know that’s not very pastoral. There is no golden formula. However, we must recognize as Ecclesiastes does that “there is a season for everything under the sun.” In this season, and in his holiday, we are going to find ourselves more isolated from others. Advent still provides us with a reason to have hope: hope that you and I are not alone forever. Hope that things like pandemics will not be forever. Hope that Jesus’ Advent will not be his last, but rather a second one is coming. A second Advent that, as John saw in his revelation, to remake and refashion this world in order that God will never again isolate himself from humanity.
“Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, or pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21: 3-4
In Jesus’ first advent he came to deal with sin and death. His second Advent will be the abolishment of them both forever and ever.
However, even in our hope of that future time to come, there is a hard day to live in now. And in the oncoming weeks throughout December we will be walking through continually this topic of isolation and Advent, and various ways in which you and I can intentionally live during these tricky and difficult times.
Thanks for joining us for part one of our Advent Devotional series “Facing Holiday Isolation.”
Stay tuned for the next devotion, “Mental Health, Isolation and the Incarnation.”
Luke 1:26-56
When Mary came to Elizabeth, she shared in song her hope and joy in knowing she would bear the Son of God. She prophetically declared that God would give grace to the humble, working mightily through ordinary people, and God fulfilling all the prophecies through the weak. We too should pursue humility, seeing that simple things have great value.
Luke 1:5-24, 57-80
We begin our Christmas series looking at the life of Zechariah. He and Elizabeth received a miracle from God in the birth of their son, John. We see his struggle with believing it initially, but his faith later in the fulfillment of God's promises. His son would become the prophetic forerunner to the promised Messiah, Jesus, the hope of the world.
Mark 4:1-20
God works in His people through the Word, Jesus Christ, by His Spirit. In this parable, we see 3 ways that the Word can be robbed from us, and a 4th way it can take root and bear fruit. We learn how we should respond to the Word that God sows in us, as well as what we should expect when the Word is sown deep in our life.
1 Peter 1:3-9
The message of the resurrection is more than just a message. It is our living hope, because the church is supernaturally equipped with an ability to live the resurrection life: a life of love, of generosity, of meekness, of humility, as we share the Good News of Jesus Christ. As a result, our attachments should be to Him, not to people, ideas, or things.
Lamentations 5
As we conclude the study of Lamentations, we see the author recounting again the tragedies that befell the Hebrew people. Yet, as he made clear earlier, they had hope in God's faithfulness to His promises. We must remember that God's story is forever. Our story makes sense if we see it interwoven with His story. Don't get overwhelmed with the moment, but allow the past to give hope for the future.
Lamentations 4
Idolatry involves making something or someone who is not God like they are God. In our desire to be fulfilled, we place other loves before the One who can truly meet our need. Wrongly ordered loves include 1) wealth, success, and progress, 2) people and leaders, 3) governments and nations. May we make worship of God our priority.
Lamentations 3
As the author of Lamentations wrestles with his own story of trials and disappointments, he looks to God's story of mercy and faithfulness. He recognizes that God is committed to us, to draw us closer to Himself. God is in the process of making all things new. In the midst of our story, we must hope in God's faithfulness.
Lamentations 2
The nature of "lament" is not the exploration of the reasons for suffering, but more so, giving room for asking the questions and learning to cling to faith, even in the absence of answers. We must remember that we are the creation, not the Creator. We must learn to say," God I truly don't understand, but if I cannot hope in You, I indeed have no hope at all."
Lamentations 1
Pastor Dan begins a series on learning to lament. When rough circumstances happen to us as individuals, as a church, or as a nation, we must allow ourselves, and others, to express grief and sadness. It is not despair, but is girded with hope in the Lord. As David did many times in the Psalms, we must be willing to address our feelings, and yet rejoice in God's love and mercy.
The Bible is one long unified story of redemption, with Christ at the center. As Pastor Dan takes us from Genesis to Revelation to see God's plan, we revisit Israel's role in it. We cultivate our knowledge of God's divine perspective for the nations, and His heart for the world.
Philippians 4:10-23
As we conclude our study of Philippians, we find Paul thanking the Philippian church for their gifts of support. He has learned to be content whether in need or with plenty, but he rejoices in the blessings that they will receive for being cheerful givers. Biblical generosity brings joy to the giver. We will be discontented if we put our hope in money and possessions instead of in Jesus.
Philippians 4:2-9
As Paul addresses a conflict between two individuals in Philippi, he shows how to Biblically deal with conflict. Humility is necessary. Disagreement does not mean conflict. Instead of becoming anxious, we must be gentle, and thankful for the worthy things that exist. Prayer is the opposite of anxiety, since it relinquishes control to God.
Ephesians 4:1-16
On Sunday, we officially installed Daniel Nelms as our Senior Pastor. After a time of worship, Eric Loyer, a Pastor at Daniel's former church, Redeemer Fellowship in Tom's River, NJ, challenged Daniel to make his central theme to always be Christ crucified, buried, and resurrected, and not to add to or subtract from the Gospel of Jesus. Elder Joel Porter then challenged the congregation to be an active part in the Body of Immanuel, supportive in prayer and service with Pastor Daniel and family.
Philippians 3:12-21
Because of Christ, our citizenship is in heaven. As a result, we can put the circumstances and failures of the past behind us, and can concentrate on His calling for us. This is the radical nature of grace. We should love our enemies, as well as our neighbors, since everyone needs Jesus. Love like Him, not like the world.
Philippians 3:1-11
Is your identity built around your own accomplishments or memberships? Paul makes it clear that we can have no confidence in these. The hope of the world is in Christ, but Christ is in us. As we focus on living for Christ, we find ultimate meaning in life, and can impact the world with His love.
Philippians 2:19-30
In this portion of Paul's letter, he addresses the spiritual qualities of Timothy and Epaphroditus. We see that modern expectations for success are the reverse of those in the Kingdom, where serving others and making disciples are valued. No matter where we serve, we have supreme value before God, because Jesus has supreme value before God. The humble will be exalted.
Philippians 2:12-18
As Paul writes to the Philippian Church, he encourages them to grow, even though he was absent. Jesus is to remain first in our focus. He discouraged them from grumbling and complaining, but to remember that the same God works within all of us. We need to be patient, and pour ourselves out for one another. The service closed with us taking Communion.
Philippians 2:1-11
A Christian's task is not to just rescue people from Hell and this world. Jesus carved out a path for Christians to follow while in this world now, to be ambassadors of His love. In much of America, that path has become overgrown. As more of us walk in His path, with long obedience in the same direction, the more that path will become visible to the world.
Philippians 1:27-30
We are to live as citizens of Christ's Kingdom, which means serving one another, willing to lay down our rights. Paul laid down his privileges as a Roman citizen, so that he could identify with those believers who were not. Jesus stood silent and suffered for us, when He could have taken advantage of His own privileges.
Philippians 1:19-26
The Church exists for the purpose of loving and glorifying Jesus, as a beacon of light. Despite life's struggles, you should desire it more than heaven, because this world needs you. Your life matters. The way Christians face life and death is our biggest testimony to the power of the resurrection.
Philippians 1:12-18
As we continue the study of Philippians, we see Paul emphasizing that everything in our lives should be focused on Christ. He notes that even his time in prison was being used to further the gospel of Jesus. We should rejoice in any way that the Good News of Jesus is being made known.
Philippians 1:1-11
Each of us has a "master story" that guides the way we live. It may be an ideology, a critical event in our life, the drive for success, etc. These represent the world's narrative which is to compare ourselves with others. The master story of Christ involves humbly serving others. Christians should be a Jesus-like, Cross-shaped family.
Mark 12:28-34
In his first sermon as Immanuel's Senior Pastor, Daniel reminds us that the foundation for revival is Jesus, who challenged us to love God and love our neighbor. As we are ambassadors and disciples of Christ, the world is transformed by the love of God.
Pastor Will concluded his series, reminding us how we can face the uncertain future in the power of Christ. Paul set the example, since he knew Christ goes with us and before us. We can face the future with confidence, with a sense of commitment, cheerfully, and with courage.
Deuteronomy 31:8 - The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Luke 6:27-31
We look at what the Word says about prejudice. The only thing that can answer the problem of prejudice today in our society, to combat the massive issue of prejudice, and even combat the racism that exists in various corners and sectors of our country and our world, is through Jesus. Jesus wants us to love everyone the way He did, to be sacrificial to everyone we encounter.
1 Corinthians 15:20-24
As part of his candidating for our Senior Pastor position, Daniel Nelms shared in his sermon that the foundation of our faith is the Good News that Jesus died and rose again, and reconciles us to the Father. He not only makes us new creations, but wants us to share the message of reconciliation.
Acts 16:22-24, 35-40
As the nation and the world are filled with civil unrest, Christians wrestle with how to respond as light in the darkness. As we look at the teachings and experiences of Paul, we see he makes it clear that we are to submit to and pray for the governing authorities. Yet through his own experience, Paul shows that we should still stand on God's Word and against injustice. Also, we must beware of letting the thinking of the world water down our understanding of God's Word. Half truths are actually false.
2 Kings 20:1-6
We learn two more things from King Hezekiah: 1) Our failures don't define us. God looks on our heart. 2) Faithfulness in serving God does not bring a trouble-free life, but, in our times of adversity, remember the battle belongs to the Lord.
2 Chronicles 29:3-19
As we continue the study of the life and reign of King Hezekiah, we see that one of his first acts as king was to cleanse the Temple of all the abominations that had been done to it by previous kings. He knew the nation needed to be purified before it could move on with God. So we also, must examine ourselves and allow Jesus to cleanse us, so that we can be more effective disciples.
Proverbs 3:5-6
As we begin our study of King Hezekiah in 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, we find that he trusted and clung to the Lord, and as a result, he prospered in the Lord, and became known as Judah's greatest king. As we cling to the Lord, we realize that we can trust Him with our life, even as Hezekiah did.
1 Peter 2:9
As we examine Exodus 19:1-12, we see that God's intention for the Israelites was not just to take them to the promised land, but to make them "a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." Our journey's end is to be brought to Christ and united with Him.
Exodus 17:8-16
As we deal with big battles in our lives, we can learn from the Israelites as they fought the Amalekites: Be faithful in the little things and learn from them. Enter the battle with the correct weapons - prayer and God's Word. Ask help from others. Remember that Jesus is interceding for us.
Exodus 15:22-27
As the Israelites traveled through the desert, they came upon the waters of Marah, but they were bitter. The people grumbled, but Moses obeyed God, and the water became sweet. In bitter times, do we grumble and complain, or do we pray? Faithfulness during Marah times will result in God's provision of an oasis.
Hebrews 2:1
As we study Hebrews 10:19-39, we're reminded that the blood of Jesus gives us access to God. Nevertheless, we must stay focused on that fact, so we don't slip away. Proper faith displays a proper patience. He remains faithful. Will we?
Mark 16:1-8
As we celebrate Easter, we look at Mark's account of the resurrection. The women who came to anoint the dead body of Jesus were alarmed when they found the empty tomb. An angel assured them that Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified, had risen. May we respond in faith to this life changing event.
Matthew 26:36-46
Jesus prayed that He wouldn't have to go through suffering, but submitted himself to the Father's plan. When life doesn't seem fair, will we respond like Jesus? God's plan seldom makes sense in the midst of pain, but we can receive strength and peace if we trust in our heavenly Father.
Mark 10:46-52
We explore the account of blind Bartimaeus being healed by Jesus. We see him go from desperation to revelation, to determination, to expectation, to restoration. In desperate times, we need to reach out to Jesus in faith, and allow Him to reveal His love and power.
Matthew 14:22-31
This recording was made as part of our YouTube broadcast during the COVID-19 pandemic. We look at three statements Jesus made to His disciples during the storm: "Take courage. It is I. Don't be afraid."
Philippians 4:4-7
As we conclude our study in Philippians, we find Paul reminding us to not be anxious in the midst of life's uncertainties. We can rejoice in an Almighty God that loves us, and cares for us. As we look to Him, we find peace beyond all human understanding.
Philippians 3:10-11
As we continue our study of Paul's letter to the Philippians, we are challenged to make Jesus the focus of our life. The possessions and accomplishments of this life dim when compared to knowing and following our Savior.
Philippians 2:1-11
We continue our study of Philippians by looking at Chapter 2. Paul instructs the church to "do nothing out of selfish ambition, rather in humility, value others above yourselves." That is what enables unity to exist in our community. Let us consider this week how we may sacrifice our time, finances, or energy for the benefit of another.
Philippians 1:27
We begin a 4 part study of Philippians. In the first chapter, Paul admonishes the Philippians to "stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the Gospel". As believers, we may have differences, but we should be united in the message of the Gospel.
Matthew 18:11
As we live our life, we can tend to forget the value of Love, Opportunity, Soul, and Time. With help from the Lord, we can avoid losing our first love, missing our best opportunities, losing our soul, and mismanaging our time.
Luke 24:13-35
We need to be bread in the hands of Jesus: blessed, broken, given. We conclude the sermon series, being reminded that He showed His love so that we could effectively show love to the world.
Luke 22:19
We continue a series from December, entitled "Blessed, Broken, Given". The circumstances of life can sometimes break us, but the grace of God can sustain us and redeem us. Brokenness brings us openness to His transforming power.
Hebrews 3:1-6
Jesus was present at Creation, and yet He humbled himself to become a man, so that He could live perfectly among us, and then die for our sins. We explore His divine nature.
Luke 8:5-15
When we hear the Word of God, do we get distracted by the devil, the trials of life, or the pleasures of the world, or do we listen, retain, and persevere, thus producing good fruit? The Word of God, the seed, is the source of all life.
Isaiah 43:18-19
Throughout Scripture we are told to remember God's faithfulness in the past, but we are also exhorted to move forward with Him. We must not live in the experiences of the past so much, that we miss what God is doing in the present, and what He is planning for the future.
Luke 2:41-52
The Scriptures don't record much about the life of Jesus from his birth to the age of 30, but we look at an account when he was 12 years old, and discover His heart during those years. He was aware that He was to be about His heavenly Father's business. That should also be our motivation daily.
Romans 5:1-5
This Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we have reason to have hope, because the Savior lives. We have hope because of a future with Christ, but can also have hope in the present, because God is working in the seasons of our lives, to conform us to the image of Christ.
Ephesians 2:1-4
As we look at the life of King Ahaz in Isaiah 7, we're challenged to put our trust in God, not in the things of this world. Our sin has separated us from God, but Christ entered the world to bridge the gap between us and God.
Luke 9:10-23
In this passage, we see God do something miraculous with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. Jesus blesses the bread, breaks it, and then feeds the 5,000. Our lives can seem mundane and ordinary but in the hands of Jesus, He can do extraordinary things. Will we allow ourselves to be broken, so that life can be given?
Luke 14:15-23
In this parable, Jesus makes it clear that God invites everyone to fellowship with Him. His banquet table is filled with good things. Why do we make excuses not to join Him each day, as well as for eternity?
Luke 15:11-22
As we study the parable of the prodigal son, we're reminded that he was a member of the family, who gave into the temptations of the world. Nevertheless, when he repented, and turned back, the father welcomed him. No matter how far we've strayed, repentance brings restoration.
As believers, we sometimes get lost in the drift of life, false doctrine, and sin that takes us away from the gospel of Christ. We have an anchor in Christ and must stand watch against the things that attempt to lead us away. Message from Hebrews Chapter 1 and 2.
2 Corinthians 4:6-18
After praying for the persecuted Christians around the world, we learn from Paul's letter to the Corinthians that he endured suffering and persecution by focusing on the love and presence of God, instead of his circumstances. The Lord has promised eternal glories to those who endure.
John 10:22-42
Jesus reveals that He is the Messiah, and He tells those listening that His sheep know His voice, He knows them, and they follow Him. He then assures the sheep, " My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand." As believers, sometimes our faith is weak and we may stumble, but we can rest assured that we are safe in the Father's hand.
John 10:11-18
When Jesus is our Shepherd, we recognize that we have all we need in Him and are not left wanting. He takes possession over His flock and calls us His own, even to the point of laying down His life. Jesus was others-minded and commands us to love others, as He has loved us. "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." - John 15:12
John 10:10
Jesus is the Good Shepherd. As part of God's flock, we are called into relationship with the Shepherd. Often as sheep, we wander off the path, fall prey to another's voice, and tend to be self sufficient. Jesus calls us to Himself and promises to lead us to rest and provision. He has come to bring abundant life.
Genesis 15
We learned about a covenant made with Abraham. We were reminded that, when we are friends of God, that makes us an enemy of Satan, so we must be wary of attacks. Abraham experienced doubts in his journey with God, and we will too. But we are called to stay engaged and keep our faith in the One who is always faithful to us.
Acts 11:19-30-- We are called to be active in our faith. We have a call to serve the hurt and needy around us.
We are reminded in Acts Chapter 10 that the gospel reaches all. Our salvation is not our good works, service, or giving, but professing Jesus as Lord. We must preach the gospel, so that others can have a complete faith.
Psalm 119 is a reminder that God's laws, statutes, decrees, and commands are good. We as believers are to delight in God's Word, study the Word, and live the Word.
Psalm 51
When David was confronted with his sin, he turned to the mercy of God. If we own our sin, and bring it to the Lord, we are met with His grace and compassion. He creates in us a new spirit. David turned from his sin, and models repentance for us.
Psalm 13
At some time, we've all asked "How Long?", where we are seeking God and wondering when we are going to see an end to our struggles. In Psalm 13, we are encouraged in the midst of our questioning, to bring our burdens before a compassionate and faithful God.
James 5:13-20
As we finish our study of the book of James, we see the power of prayer and praise. We hear testimonies of God revealing Himself in response to them. The Lord can move mightily if we stay focused on Him.
James 4:13-5:11 As James begins to close his letter, he speaks of God's Justice. The boasters and the rich oppressors will be judged for their pride and selfish living, while the humble who persevere in trials will experience His compassion and mercy.
2 Corinthians 8:7 God's grace enables us to walk out our faith. That grace includes generosity. God invites us to participate in His work by giving our lives and our resources. God meets needs through His people.
James 4:1-12
In this passage, James challenges us to choose to avoid the proud ways of the world. If we submit ourselves to God, resist the devil, and humble ourselves before the Lord, He will lift us up.
James 3:13-18 We look at the characteristics of earthly wisdom and its results, and see how they contrast with the characteristics and results of heavenly wisdom that descends from above. God's wisdom brings peace and righteousness.
James 3:1-12 As we continue in James, we see that harnessing our tongue is a key to holy living. The tongue has enormous power. Will we allow it to bring grief or life?
James 2:1-8
God makes no distinction between rich or poor, as we are all in need of Christ's redemption. In fact, we are not to count our riches by our bank accounts or material possessions, but consider ourselves rich because of knowing Christ. "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich." - 2 Corinthians 8:9.
James 1:22-27.
James challenges Christians to not just hear the Word of God, but do make it active and be Doers of the Word. We are able to do this by looking into the "perfect law" Jesus and keeping our eyes fixed on Him. James gives some practical advice to walk out our faith, such as watching our tongues, serving those around us, and keeping ourselves from being polluted by the world around us.
Jim DiBiaso - James 1:5-8 As we continue the study of the book of James, we see that God is the source of wisdom, and that He is a good giver who wants us to succeed. However, that wisdom is conditional. We must examine our heart, to be sure we're not double-minded.
James 1:1-4 We begin a summer series on "Walking Out Your Faith" based on the book of James. After getting the background surrounding the book, we gain an understanding of why we have trials, and how we can become mature through those times.
Song of Solomon 3:1-5 ; 4:1-4 We complete the series on relationships by looking at the wedding day when two become one. It compares to the promise of the future, when Jesus, the Bridegroom, is united with the Church, His Bride. We see that we must allow the Holy Spirit to heal our personal relationships now, before we are united with Jesus on that day.
Song of Solomon 2:10 - 3:6 For any healthy relationship, there should be excitement, it should produce life, and there should be a commitment to solving problems.
Song of Solomon 1:7-17; 2:1-7 We continue our study of Song of Solomon, as we explore how the Church, the Bride of Christ, can grow in our relationship with the Bridegroom.
Song of Solomon 1:1-6
In Part 1, we covered the background of Song of Solomon and introduced the topics of attraction, romance, relationships, and finding our fulfillment in Christ
John 14: 15-18, 25-26 Before Jesus ascended to heaven, he assured the disciples that the Father would send the Holy Spirit to dwell with all who believed in Him. The Holy Spirit convicts us and leads us to the truth of the cross. He speaks through the written Word,gives gifts, and produces the fruit of the Spirit in our lives.
2 Corinthians 5:17-21 When we accept that Jesus reconciled us to God, we are no longer bound to sin, but can now move with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Under this new management, we should be ambassadors of the Kingdom of God.
Matthew 15:1-20 In this passage, Jesus addresses man's tendency to lose sight of the true gospel, when following religion and tradition. Don't be religious, but walk in true humility. God looks on the heart.
In the Garden of Eden, man fell from life to death. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus submitted himself to the will of the Father. At the Garden tomb, man moved from death to life, as Jesus overcame sin, death and the grave. Hallelujah!
Luke 19:28-44 Some of the crowd who heralded Jesus as he entered Jerusalem were calling for his crucifixion a week later, because their vision was out of focus. They wanted a conquering king, instead of a suffering Savior. What are your expectations of Jesus?
Jim DiBiaso - Luke 9:51-62 As we walk with the Lord, it's important to keep focused on God's call on our life. In this passage, we see how the disciples and others allowed emotions and distractions to shift their focus from the purposes of God. Jesus never lost focus on his future, despite the cost.
Numbers 19:1-13 The Hebrew people celebrated the Sabbath of the Red Heifer, as a rite of purification before the pilgrimage to Jerusalem for Passover. See how Old Testament truth is revealed in Christ in the New Testament.
Pastor Will Donato - 1 Peter 4:1-11 God has called us to a life of praise, both in word and deed,regardless of our circumstances. As we administer His grace through love and service, He is glorified and we are blessed.
Matthew 13:18-23 When Jesus compared the sharing of the Kingdom message to sowing seeds, he made it clear that not every word falls into fertile soil. The problem is not with the seed, so we should never stop sharing the message, even if it may fail to bear fruit at times.
Dr. Dan Varnell - Matthew 5:1-6 Jesus came to bless mankind. As He begins His Sermon on the Mount, He reinforces the fact that His blessing is there no matter what our circumstances may be. For this, we can rejoice always.
Pastor Ryan Diffenderfer- Genesis 37-50- The life of Joseph teaches us that God is faithful to keep His promises. Jospeh did what was right regardless the circumstances of his life, and God used Joseph's obedience to be a blessing to others. "What man intended for evil, God intended for good." Even though we may not always see it or feel it, God is at work in all seasons of our lives.
Frank Shelton - John 8:1-11 As we study the account of Jesus ministering to the adulteress brought to Him in the Temple court, we are reminded of God's grace. Jesus didn't come to follow a religion, but to share love and life to sinners. To receive eternal life, we need simply to receive the pardon bought by His blood.
Jim DiBiaso - Matthew 4:1-11 After His baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. He tempted Jesus in the same 3 areas as he did with Adam & Eve: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. They failed, but Jesus prevailed
Jim DiBiaso - Matthew 3:13-17 The baptism of Jesus was the inauguration into His Messianic ministry. He could save us because He lived a perfect life, but He got baptized to identify with those He came to save. The Father and the Spirit then bore witness that Jesus was the Son of God.
Jim DiBiaso - Matthew 3:1-17 The water baptism of Jesus was the inauguration of His ministry as the Messiah. John the Baptist was His forerunner, and exemplified characteristics we should have as Christians: a distinctive lifestyle, a defined calling, and humility.
Pastor Michael Guertin - 1 John 4:14-15 To understand the magnitude of Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection, we must remember the consequences of our sin and how much we needed a Savior. His love is overwhelming.
Pastor Ryan Diffenderfer - Acts 1:8 Although we are called to be a community of love, our mission is to share the good news of Jesus Christ. We are to be witnesses in word and deed to all who cross our path.
Pastor Ryan Diffenderfer - 1 Corinthians 12:12-26 We looked at Paul's description of the Church as the Body of Christ. God has orchestrated us all to play a part in His Church. We are called to be a community that does life together. What part of the Body is God asking you to play?
Rev. George Bowen - Philippians 3:2-14 As we enter 2019, we may remember and learn from the past, but must commit ourselves to press on to know Jesus more. As we focus on Him, God will fulfill His promises and pour out His Spirit on all who seek after Him.