Emmanuel Presbyterian Church

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Imagining the Church

Revelation 19:6-10 (ESV)6 Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out,

“Hallelujah!
For the Lord our God
the Almighty reigns.
7 Let us rejoice and exult
and give him the glory,
for the marriage of the Lamb has come,
and his Bride has made herself ready;
8 it was granted her to clothe herself
with fine linen, bright and pure”—

for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints.

9 And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.” 10 Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, “You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God.” For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

Sermon OutlineThe picture of the church as a bride (v7) helps us see that the message of God’s love is profound (and includes commitment, sacrifice, joy)

The Marriage Supper
v9 “blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper…”
v6 “the Lord, our God… reigns”, v7 “for the marriage… has come”
The Lamb
v7 “marriage of the lamb” (cf v9)
v10 “the testimony of Jesus”
v10 “he fell down to worship”
The Linen Garment
v7 “the bride has made herself ready”
v8 “it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen… the righteous deeds of the saints”
v7 “let us rejoice”

Prayer of ConfessionOur loving God, you have been faithful to us, but we have not been faithful to you. We have taken you for granted. We have assumed a contractual relationship where we have served you in exchange for things we want from you. We have presumed upon your patience by persisting in what you have warned us not to do. We have failed to trust you. We have sinned in ways that have dishonored people whom you have made. Forgive all of our sins. Wash us clean. Show us again your grace and favor, as we strive to put off the old ways and put on what is fitting for those awaiting the great celebration you have invited us to. We pray this through Christ, the one who loved us and who alone is worthy. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Do you find the message of God’s love appealing? What skepticism, cynicism, fear or incredulity do you have towards this message? Why?
Does it feel like you relate to God under a contract (a practical relationship, a sense of duty, a foundation of exchange, etc.) or a covenant (a personal commitment, a desire to be faithful, a foundation of love)? How does your framework shape your expectations, your experience of God, your interpretation of life events, etc.?
Does love typically include joy, commitment and sacrifice? Are all three necessary? Are they always present? What else does real love need?
Why is it important to recognize that God is patient and faithful with unfaithful people?
Why is Jesus pictured as a lamb in the book of Revelation? What other passages of the Bible help you understand why Jesus is the “lamb of God”?
How is a marriage celebration a helpful image for understanding where God is leading history?
What does the metaphor of the church as a bride imply about how we are to live? What does it look like to get changed/dressed if the garment is “righteous deeds”?
Do you believe the future is hopeful, and that a joyous occasion awaits? Why or why not? How are you currently affected by what you believe about the future?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Imagining the Church

1 Corinthians 12:12-27 (ESV)12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? 18 But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. 19 If all were a single member, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.

21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 22 On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, 24 which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, 25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.

27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.

Sermon Outline1. We are unique members

[12] For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ…[14] For the body does not consist of one member but of many... [20] As it is, there are many parts, yet one body... [27] Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.
[22] the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, [23] and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, [24] which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it
[15] If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. [16] And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body.
We belong to the body of Christ
[13] For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
[25] …that the members may have the same care for one another. [26] If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.
[21] The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.”
This is God’s design
[18] God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose
[24] God has so composed the body
Genesis 2:23 - Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh.”

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, you created us for connection, not isolation. You arranged every member of Christ’s body as indispensable, and your design is beautiful. Yet we confess our sins. We bring division, we measure people’s worth wrongly, we see ourselves too highly and others too lowly. Instead of strengthening the body, we weaken it. Forgive us, O Lord. Turn our eyes to Jesus, whose body was broken to make us whole. May we live each day assured that we belong to him, for we are bone of his bones and flesh of his flesh. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Paul says each member of the body of Christ has value and worth, not just usefulness. Why do you think it’s hard for us to believe this about ourselves or others?
Describe a time when you felt overlooked or undervalued in the church or elsewhere? How did that affect you?
What’s the most meaningful encouragement you’ve ever received, and why did it resonate with you? How might we grow our church’s culture of encouragement?
Think of a time when someone “suffered with you” or “rejoiced with you.” How did that experience shape your sense of belonging?
We may not be best friends with everyone in church, but what’s one simple step you could take to connect more meaningfully with someone you don’t know well?
What if the song that Adam sung to Eve (“This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh”) is being sung over us by Jesus? How might that encourage you to know that you are intimately tied to Jesus?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Imagining the Church

1 Timothy 3:14-16 (ESV)14 I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, 15 if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. 16 Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness:

He was manifested in the flesh,
vindicated by the Spirit,
seen by angels,
proclaimed among the nations,
believed on in the world,
taken up in glory.

Sermon OutlineThe church, as a household (v15), is the family of God.

Church of The Living God (v15)
The Mystery of Godliness (v16)
How To Behave (v15)

Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious heavenly Father, we are assembled before you, the living God. With honesty and humility, we confess our sins. We have not displayed the family likeness. We have not followed the ways of Christ. We have wandered and walked in the ways of the slanderer, the deceiver, the accuser, the liar, the murderer. We have compromised the truth. We have not acted with honor towards those in the household of faith, nor our neighbors. Forgive us. We thank you that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. In this family gathering, renew us, nourish us, cleanse us, lead us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways is a church like a family? Are there ways in which a church is not like a family?
Why is the weekly pattern of assembling in the presence of the living God an essential part of the Christian life? (the word for “church”, ekklesia, also means an assembly)
How is a Sunday worship service like a family gathering?
How do falsehood and deception bring ruin? How do they turn people against God and one another?
How is God’s plan for all things held together in Christ? What makes Jesus the way, the truth, and the life?
What can we do to keep focused on the things God has chosen to reveal? What things can we do while there is still much we don’t understand?
Why is it important that Christians get clear on how they are to behave?
What are some of the characteristics of the family of God? What are some traits that all members of God’s household should have?

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Audio Recording We apologize, the recording encountered a glitch. At about the 42:35 mark there is a jump. The missing segment was about 20 seconds.

Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Imagining the Church

1 Peter 2:1-12 (ESV)1 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. 2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

4 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 For it stands in Scripture:

“Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone,
a cornerstone chosen and precious,
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”

7 So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe,

“The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone,”

8 and

“A stone of stumbling,
and a rock of offense.”

They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.

9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. 12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.

Sermon OutlineWhat does it mean that the church is a “priesthood”?

A Spiritual House
v5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood
v11 I urge… to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul
vv1-2 put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander… long for… spiritual milk, that… you may grow up…
A People Called with Mercy
v7 “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,”
v9 you are a chosen race… him who called you… out of darkness
v10 Once you were not a people… but now you have received mercy
Those Offering Sacrifices
v3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
v5 …offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ
v9 that you may proclaim the excellencies…
v12 Keep your conduct… honorable…

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father, without your help we will lose the war against our souls. We confess our weakness. We have ignored or justified envy when we should have recognized it and turned from it. We are guilty of malice, deceit, hypocrisy and slander. As a church, we have been weak in proclaiming your excellencies and our good works have been insufficient. Forgive every sin. We thank you for the mercy we receive through Christ, who offered himself as a sacrifice on our behalf. Empower us with your Spirit to offer spiritual sacrifices that bring you glory. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Do you ever experience “war against your soul”? What feelings or experiences drain you (or feel like they are killing you)?
What is your experience with envy? How does envy function in your life? Are you always aware when envy is at work within you?
How does envy keep people stuck in misery? Why is it so hard to get free from envy?
How is envy connected to malice, hypocrisy, slander and deceit?
Why is it so important that God is merciful? How do we know God is merciful?
How does God use the rejection of Jesus Christ to turn us from lifeless rocks to living stones? How does the resurrected Jesus call us out of darkness and into his marvelous light?
Have you tasted that the Lord is good? Has your soul had any stirrings of life because of some connection with the goodness of God?
What does it look like to make spiritual sacrifices through Christ?
How does “proclaiming the excellencies of him who called you” (praise to God) help safeguard against envy?
How does God use the church to fill the world with worship and good works? Where is the church failing in this calling? What can the church be doing in this period of time?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Imagining the Church

John 10:1-18 (ESV)1 “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” 6 This figure of speech Jesus used with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them.

7 So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13 He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.”

Sermon OutlineThe church is a group of people committed to following Jesus.

Do you need a guide?
v3-4 “he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out… the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.”
v6 “they did not understand what he was saying to them”
What kind of leader do you need?
v12 “the wolf snatches them and scatters them”
v7-8 “…All who came before me are thieves and robbers”
v12 “a hired hand and not a shepherd”
v10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”
Are you with the people following Jesus?
v9 “I am the door… enters by me… will be saved”
v11 “the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep”
v16 “I have other sheep… there will be one flock, one shepherd”

Prayer of ConfessionO great Shepherd, you call, but we resist. We have wandered, thinking we could navigate life on our own. We have been deceived by the thief who appealed to our cravings and corrupt desires. We have done what we should not do; we have failed to do what we should. Thank you that you are a good shepherd, and that in laying down your life you offer forgiveness and reconciliation. Forgive us. Do not leave or forsake us; lead us in the way of abundant life. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways is the church like a flock of sheep?
Do you need a guide in life? How are you guided, or who guides you?
How do you recognize the voice of Jesus? How can you tell when he has called you? How can you follow his lead?
How do our corrupt desires make us vulnerable to thieves and false shepherds?
How are you influenced by others? How do the habits, desires, and goals of people around you shape you?
What has Jesus said or done that evidences he is a leader worth following?
How does Jesus lead the church? What role do human leaders play? The Bible? The Holy Spirit?
What in the metaphor of the church as a flock of sheep helps us understand why Christians are not meant to live their own personal lives of faith in isolation from one another?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Imagining the Church

Matthew 5:1-16 (ESV)1 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.

2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet.

14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Sermon OutlineThe church is called to be light for the world (v14).

Which Light?
v16 “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
What Do We Uphold And What Do We Hide?
v15 “Nor do people… put it under a basket, but on a stand…”
Why Are We Left In The World?
v14 “A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”

Prayer of ConfessionOur glorious God, you are the Creator and Sustainer of life. We are a people who walk in darkness. Forgive us for wanting to take your place. Forgive us for presuming darkness could be used for our own advantage. Forgive us for all the things we have thought and done that we fear could be found out. Forgive us for ways we have made the world a darker place through our sinful actions. We look to Jesus, the true light, and through faith ask that you dispel the darkness in our lives. Thank you for how you have blessed us; grant us the grace to live in the world as those who generously bring your blessing and light to the world around us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Why does the church exist?
How should we understand that Jesus tells us not to do good works in order to be seen (Matthew 6), yet tells us to do good works so that people may see them (Matthew 5)? What distinction is Jesus making?
Where do you look for “light”? What do you see in the world that promises life?
Why does the Bible insist that we look to God? What happens if we try to become like God (take God’s place)? What happens if we devote ourselves to people, things, ideals, with the devotion and hope that should be in God alone?
When Jesus claimed to be the light of the world, what did he reveal in his character, teachings and actions that demonstrate this?
Where can we see the glory of God? When the Holy Spirit open eyes to discern God’s reality, what kinds of things does the Spirit show you?
How does the pattern of the church – gathering every week, on the first day of the week since Jesus was raised to worship God – sustain us with spiritual health? What are some ways that church becomes lifeless and draining instead of life giving?
How do churches become a “city on a hill”? What characterizes faithful disciples who go into the world to bring God’s light into it?
What habits will help you remain in the paradigm of receiving blessing and light from God, and stewarding it by seeking to bless and bring light to your family, friends, coworkers, NYC?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 22:1-14 (ESV)1 And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, 2 “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, 3 and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come. 4 Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, “See, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.”’ 5 But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, 6 while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. 7 The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. 8 Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. 9 Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.’ 10 And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests.

11 “But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. 12 And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. 13 Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ 14 For many are called, but few are chosen.”

Sermon OutlineWhy do we resist God’s gracious invitation? (v3)

Resisting God’s Call
v5 “they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business”
v6 “the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them”
v11 “a man who had no wedding garment”
Responding to God’s Call
v4 “he sent other servants… ‘Tell those who are invited… everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.’”
vv9-10 “…those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests.”

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father: with generosity you invite us to life with you. We admit our confusion, our resistance and our rebellion. With pride and self centeredness we have been apathetic, angry, and unwilling to change. We acknowledge our thoughts and actions towards you and others require forgiveness. We humbly ask that you forgive our sins, as we respond to your gracious call to turn from our sin and towards you to receive life in the name of Christ. It is in his name we pray. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What do you find most appealing or intriguing in Jesus’ call to life with him?
What in the Christian message and invitation does not appeal to you? What troubles you? What do you think is missing?
What do you recognize in aspects of who you are – your life experience, your attitudes, your patterns, your expectations – that resists Jesus’ call? What do you need to resist in yourself, or correct?
Who in this parable are you most like: the disinterested who don’t come because they have other things to do? The angry who respond with aggression towards the ones inviting? The individual who comes but does not change as appropriate for the occasion?
If you received an invitation to attend a celebrity party, how would you feel? How does the invitation to join the kingdom of the Creator of Heaven and Earth land differently in you? Why?
Why is it important to recognize that we don’t earn our way into God’s kingdom but we enter because of the generosity of the king? What spiritual health follows from a foundation of grace?
How does belonging in God’s kingdom help with life in this world? How can a Christian identity provide sufficient security for you to navigate places in our world where you don’t feel good enough?
Reflect on the process of change in the Christian life. How are you being called to put off what you have had on, and put on the things of Christ (Colossians 3)? What do you need to set aside, and what do you need to take on?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 18:21-35 (ESV)21 Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.

23 “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. 24 When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ 27 And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. 28 But when that same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay what you owe.’ 29 So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.’ 30 He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. 31 When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. 32 Then his master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. 33 And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ 34 And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. 35 So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”

Sermon OutlineJesus invites us into a way of life marked by forgiveness (v21), which both challenges and frees us.

A Heart Unchanged by Mercy
v26-27 “the servant fell on his knees… out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt.”
vv29-30 “So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded… He refused…”
vv32-33 “I forgave you… should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’”
Jesus’ Concern for the Heart
v28 “he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay what you owe.’”
v35 “So also my heavenly Father will do… if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”
A Heart in Forgiveness
v22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.
v25 And since he could not pay,

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father, if you kept a record of sins, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness. We need forgiveness for all our sins, including our failure to appreciate your generosity and mercy to us. We have taken for granted the cost at which forgiveness comes to us. We have been vengeful people, desiring to hurt and punish. We justify ourselves, thinking we are judges who operate only in the realm of righteousness. We have not recognized the harm we have been doing to ourselves and the unintended consequences to others. Forgive and free us from these and all our sins. Cleanse us from the harms done to us and from all the lingering effects of them. Show us the heart of Jesus so we become people of great humility, joy and peace. May we give to the world as we receive from him, so that our lives bring you delight and honor to his name. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Why is forgiveness important?
Why is forgiveness so hard? What makes forgiving others difficult for you?
What is the connection between receiving mercy and becoming someone who is merciful? What prohibits us from being deeply transformed by the generosity shown to us?
What does Jesus mean when he says we must forgive “from the heart”?
What can you do when you are finding it difficult to forgive?
How can you protect yourself when you forgive someone who isn’t changing?
Is the gospel affecting you deeply? As you walk with God, are you growing in gratitude, humility, wisdom, joy, etc.? What habits or practices could help you connect more with God?
How can you process your life more fully with God? How can Jesus Christ be a help, strength and healer to you?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 (ESV)24 He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field, 25 but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. 26 So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. 27 And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, ‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?’ 28 He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ So the servants said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them?’ 29 But he said, ‘No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, “Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.”’”

36 Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” 37 He answered, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. 38 The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, 39 and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. 40 Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. 41 The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, 42 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.

Sermon OutlineJesus orients us to thrive as we follow him through a world with suffering.

God’s Agenda
v24“The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field”
v28 “An enemy has done this”, v39 “the devil”
v29 “lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat”
God’s Patience
v30 “Let both grow together until the harvest”
v39 “The harvest is the end of the age”
God’s Wisdom
v26 “So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also”
v41-43 “they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers… Then the righteous will shine…”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Father: we are attuned to our own sufferings, yet ignorant of what it is like to be a holy God who governs our corrupt world. We have questioned your goodness and ability. We are guilty of the slander of those who think they know better than you. We admit our weakness and inability to face the challenges of this world honorably. We confess we have done what we should not, sometimes unaware of the damage we are doing, and sometimes with disregard for it. Forgive all our sins. Grant us grace to accept the things we cannot change, courage to change the things which should be changed, and wisdom to distinguish one from the other. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What are some ways you respond to suffering? What forms of suffering are most difficult for you?
What are your thoughts about God when suffering?
Why is it important to not lose sight of positive goals (things you aim to do or accomplish) when challenges arise?
When you look at social and political discourse today, where do you see forces that aim to move too quickly into complex issues? What trends or patterns do you observe in recent years?
Why is patience valuable when dealing with challenges? How is patience different from passivity or avoidance?
What is needed to be able to accept limitations and also be proactive about positive change? What skills do you need to develop to be able to make progress in areas where the radical change or the goal you want is not likely?
What comfort or help comes from knowing that the God of Christianity is not removed from suffering?
What are some convictions to hold to, or expectations to clarify, that will help orient you so that as you face difficulties in life you can make progress and have protection?

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Audio Recording Due to technical difficulties, there is no video of the sermon.

Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 (ESV)1 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. 2 And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat down. And the whole crowd stood on the beach. 3 And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. 4 And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. 5 Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, 6 but when the sun rose they were scorched. And since they had no root, they withered away. 7 Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. 8 Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. 9 He who has ears, let him hear.”

18 “Hear then the parable of the sower: 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. 20 As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. 22 As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. 23 As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”

Sermon OutlineJesus and his message produce fruitful lives, but we need to watch for what prohibits hearing and understanding it (v19, 23).

Hardness
v4 “some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them.”
v19 “When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart.”
Shallowness
v5 “had no depth of soil… when the sun rose they were scorched. And since they had no root, they withered away.”
v20-21 “when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away.”
Oversaturation
v7 “the thorns grew up and choked them.”
v22 “the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.”
Fruitfulness
v8 “Other seeds… produced grain”
v23 “the one who hears the word and understands it”
v9 “He who has ears, let him hear”

Prayer of ConfessionOur good and mighty God, you have revealed yourself and made your ways known. There is so much we don’t understand. Instead of learning with humility, we respond with pride, apathy and resistance. We have taken what we have wanted from you, choosing to accept what already appeals to us or what we already agree with. We have adopted the desires, values and goals of those in our world who do not put you first. Rather than fruit of the Spirit, our thoughts, words and actions have been filled with weeds and thorns. We admit our sin and ask for forgiveness. We thank you that the message of your kingdom is a message of grace and mercy. Today we open our hearts to you, praying that you would feed and strengthen us so that the fruit of your Spirit manifests itself in our lives. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Where do you observe hardness towards Christianity in yourself? What attitudes, instincts, responses, etc. evidence an innate resistance to some aspect of Jesus and his message?
How can you move past Christian shallowness? How can you learn to face the challenges of life with Christ? What can you recall in situations where you are tempted to walk away from Christ (even if just temporarily)?
What in your life competes with seeking God’s kingdom first? Do you have pursuits or priorities that are choking your faith? How can you tell when things in your life are choking your spiritual growth?
What does it look like to have a life fully open to God and His work?
What devotional habits can you prioritize to make sure you are listening to God, learning and growing as a disciple of Christ? How can you have “ears that hear”?
What aspects of the Kingdom of God do you find clearly valuable? Are there areas of interest in the Christian life you need to revisit or refocus on? How can you sustain enthusiasm for your walk with God?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 13:47-50 (ESV)47 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. 48 When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous 50 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Sermon Outline

Everyone will be gathered (v. 47)
Everyone will be sorted (v. 48-49)
Justice will be served (v. 49-50)

Prayer of ConfessionHoly and righteous God, in your kingdom, there is no room for evil; only righteousness. Yet, we confess that we are not righteous, though, in our pride, we presume we are. We easily judge others but excuse ourselves. We wrongly assume that we deserve salvation. Forgive our sins. Thank you for you Jesus, who rescued us from the fiery furnace and who endured the judgment we deserved, so that we would not be cast away. Help us to cling to his righteousness alone. Lord, have mercy on us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
How would you describe someone who is “inside” or “outside” the kingdom of heaven?
Jesus says that the net gathered fish of every kind. What implications do you see for your own life, your friendships, your calling to be an ambassador of Jesus?
The final judgment will happen “at the end of the age.” Why not have judgment in real time? What difference(s) does this make?
In what ways does this passage inform your understanding of “righteousness”?
In what ways does this passage make you unsettled about the final judgment? How can there be assurance of our own salvation?
How might you see aspects of God’s compassion and love in this passage that appears to be focused only on judgment?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 25:14-30 (ESV)14 “For [the kingdom of heaven] will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. 15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. 16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. 17 So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. 18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. 19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. 20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.’ 21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 22 And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 24 He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’ 26 But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? 27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. 28 So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. 29 For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

Sermon OutlineOur kingdom responsibility…

What it is (v. 14-17)
What gets in the way (v. 18, 24-30)
How do we do it (v. 20-23)

Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious God, you entrusted the world to us. You generously provided resources so that we might cultivate your kingdom. But we confess that we often live as though what we have is ours; not yours. We forget that we are your stewards. We misperceive you as valuing productivity more than faithfulness. We do not have reverent fear of you, but our fear paralyzes us. Forgive us. We need Jesus and his perfect work done for us. Free us from the bondage of productivity. Because of Jesus, may we remember your words to us: “Well done, good and faithful servant.“ Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
If God has called us to be his stewards and has entrusted us his kingdom, how does that shape and influence your daily life?
What has God uniquely given to you that might be part of your kingdom responsibility? What skills, passions, experiences might contribute to his kingdom?
What do you think made the third servant be afraid of the master? Do you resonate with anything about him?
Describe when you might have misperceived God. How did that affect your life and outlook at the time?
If God values faithfulness, how might that change the way you live? What do you find freeing about this? What might be challenging?
Consider taking time personally and privately and listen to God’s words of affirmation to you: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Allow those words to saturate your heart and soul.
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 13:31-33 (ESV)31 He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. 32 It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.”

33 He told them another parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.”

Sermon Outline

The kingdom of heaven is small (v. 31-32a)
The kingdom of heaven is hidden (v. 33a)
The kingdom of heaven is more than it seems (v. 32b, 33b)

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, your kingdom is great, but it does not meet our expectations of what a kingdom should be. We confess that we tie significance to what is impressive. When you are not clearly visible, we wrongly assume that you are absent, and we might believe that you do not care. Remind us that though we are specks in this universe, you sent your son, Jesus, to rescue us and invite us into your grand kingdom because we are of infinite worth to you. May your Spirit send us out and be with us as we share your good news to our neighbors. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Why did Jesus choose a mustard seed and leaven to describe the kingdom of heaven? What do each of these images convey?
How do we tend to measure someone’s worth or significance? How does this shape the way we look at people?
Describe an example of how God’s work was hidden and not obvious, but then in hindsight it was as clear as day.
Why is it difficult to trust God when he is not clearly visible?
How can we live out the generous hospitality of the kingdom of heaven and make room for others?
Though each of us are small, compared to the entire universe, we are deeply loved by Jesus. How might this encourage your heart? How might you encourage someone else with this truth?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 20:1-16 (ESV)1 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2 After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 and to them he said, ‘You go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.’ 5 So they went. Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same. 6 And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing. And he said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ 7 They said to him, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.’ 8 And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the laborers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.’ 9 And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. 10 Now when those hired first came, they thought they would receive more, but each of them also received a denarius. 11 And on receiving it they grumbled at the master of the house, 12 saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.’ 13 But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14 Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. 15 Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?’ 16 So the last will be first, and the first last.”

Sermon Outline

The beauty of grace (v. 1-7)
The offense of grace (v. 8-12)
The power of grace (v. 13-16)

Prayer of ConfessionOur Heavenly Father, grace is central to you and to your kingdom. There is utter beauty in your grace towards us. We do not deserve it. But we struggle to live by grace. Rather, we trust a merit-based life. We find our worth in our accomplishments, we measure ourselves against others, we seek recognition for what we do. May your Spirit help us to trust in grace-based living; that grace is the way to freedom and salvation. Thank you for the grace that is found in Jesus, where you made us equal to him. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Describe the character of the owner. What is notable? What is surprising?
In what ways might you relate with the workers who were hired in the last hour? How might you struggle with imposter syndrome?
Why do you think the first set of workers felt wronged? In what ways do you relate to them?
How does this parable challenge the idea that we can “earn” God’s favor?
If the kingdom of heaven truly has no rankings, how might that change how we live?
How have you experienced the power of grace in your life?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 13:10-17 (ESV)10 Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” 11 And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. 12 For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 13 This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. 14 Indeed, in their case the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled that says:

“‘“You will indeed hear but never understand,
and you will indeed see but never perceive.”
15 For this people's heart has grown dull,
and with their ears they can barely hear,
and their eyes they have closed,
lest they should see with their eyes
and hear with their ears
and understand with their heart
and turn, and I would heal them.’

16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. 17 For truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.

Sermon Outline

Parables reveal who we are (v. 10-12)
Parables reveal who Jesus is (v. 13-15)
Parables reveal who we’re meant to be (v. 16-17)

Prayer of ConfessionJesus, you are the image of the invisible God. You have fully revealed the beauty and wonder of the Kingdom of God. But we confess there are times when we hear but do not want to understand, when we see but do not want to perceive. Our dull hearts, our blocked ears, our closed eyes desperately need your healing. May your Spirit give us the strength to turn to you and gaze upon your beauty and marvel at your wonder. Remind us of our blessedness because Jesus has saved and rescued us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
When you hear the word “parable,” what comes to mind?
What implications are there that God’s kingdom is something that must be received, not just figured out on our own?
Why do you think Jesus chose parables to reveal who he is?
How does Jesus’ persistence in revealing himself, even in the face of rejection, shape how you view him?
To what degree do you believe that we are blessed to see and hear what prophets longed for?
In what ways might you be a mini-parable to those around you and in the places that God has uniquely called you?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Ed Sirya

Matthew 5:1-12 (ESV)1 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.

2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Prayer of ConfessionMost merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 65:17-25 (ESV)17 “For behold, I create new heavens
and a new earth,
and the former things shall not be remembered
or come into mind.
18 But be glad and rejoice forever
in that which I create;
for behold, I create Jerusalem to be a joy,
and her people to be a gladness.
19 I will rejoice in Jerusalem
and be glad in my people;
no more shall be heard in it the sound of weeping
and the cry of distress.
20 No more shall there be in it
an infant who lives but a few days,
or an old man who does not fill out his days,
for the young man shall die a hundred years old,
and the sinner a hundred years old shall be accursed.
21 They shall build houses and inhabit them;
they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit.
22 They shall not build and another inhabit;
they shall not plant and another eat;
for like the days of a tree shall the days of my people be,
and my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands.
23 They shall not labor in vain
or bear children for calamity,
for they shall be the offspring of the blessed of the Lord,
and their descendants with them.
24 Before they call I will answer;
while they are yet speaking I will hear.
25 The wolf and the lamb shall graze together;
the lion shall eat straw like the ox,
and dust shall be the serpent's food.
They shall not hurt or destroy
in all my holy mountain,”
says the Lord.

Sermon OutlineSet your heart on the city of God and pursue lasting joy and gladness (vv17-18).

What Is Missing
vv19-25 “no more… weeping… cry of distress… infant who lives but a few days… they shall not… plant and another eat… labor in vain or bear children for calamity… wolf… lion… serpent…”
v24 “Before they call I will answer”
Who Is Present
v24 “while they are yet speaking I will hear.”
vv18-19 “I create Jerusalem to be a joy… gladness. I will rejoice… be glad in my people”
How We Live
v25 “the lion shall eat straw like the ox…”
v18 “be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, we are in great need of your help. We wander this world foolishly seeking to satisfy our pride, greed and lust. When joy is lacking, we envy, resent, and act with spite. We have lived in the world for ourselves. We have not put you first. We admit our disordered loves and disordered life. With hard hearts we have neglected your call, making excuses instead of coming at your invitation. Forgive every offense. Transform our hearts and minds. Fill us with your love so we inhabit and serve our city as faithful citizens of your city. Grant us eternal joy and gladness through Christ. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What do you love about New York City (or where you live)? What do you not like?
Why does the Bible make love for God such a priority? How is putting God first difficult for you?
What in the list of what God will fix do you most long for: no more cries of distress, no early death, no building and others inhabiting, no futile work, no children born to suffer, no predators?
How can the vision of a hopeful future help you in the present?
How is the city of God different from human cities? What does Jesus do and say that indicates the new Jerusalem will be very different?
What can you learn from the picture that the wolf and the lamb will graze together, and the lion will eat straw like an ox?
How is the pursuit of joy and the pursuit of God intertwined?
What can you change in your life so that there is more joy and gladness in it?
How can sacrificial service be a means to a more satisfying life?

Read Ahead

Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 63:15-64:12 (ESV)15 Look down from heaven and see,
from your holy and beautiful habitation.
Where are your zeal and your might?
The stirring of your inner parts and your compassion
are held back from me.
16 For you are our Father,
though Abraham does not know us,
and Israel does not acknowledge us;
you, O Lord, are our Father,
our Redeemer from of old is your name.
17 O Lord, why do you make us wander from your ways
and harden our heart, so that we fear you not?
Return for the sake of your servants,
the tribes of your heritage.
18 Your holy people held possession for a little while;
our adversaries have trampled down your sanctuary.
19 We have become like those over whom you have never ruled,
like those who are not called by your name.

64:1 Oh that you would rend the heavens and come down,
that the mountains might quake at your presence—
2 as when fire kindles brushwood
and the fire causes water to boil—
to make your name known to your adversaries,
and that the nations might tremble at your presence!
3 When you did awesome things that we did not look for,
you came down, the mountains quaked at your presence.
4 From of old no one has heard
or perceived by the ear,
no eye has seen a God besides you,
who acts for those who wait for him.
5 You meet him who joyfully works righteousness,
those who remember you in your ways.
Behold, you were angry, and we sinned;
in our sins we have been a long time, and shall we be saved?
6 We have all become like one who is unclean,
and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.
We all fade like a leaf,
and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away.
7 There is no one who calls upon your name,
who rouses himself to take hold of you;
for you have hidden your face from us,
and have made us melt in the hand of our iniquities.

8 But now, O Lord, you are our Father;
we are the clay, and you are our potter;
we are all the work of your hand.
9 Be not so terribly angry, O Lord,
and remember not iniquity forever.
Behold, please look, we are all your people.
10 Your holy cities have become a wilderness;
Zion has become a wilderness,
Jerusalem a desolation.
11 Our holy and beautiful house,
where our fathers praised you,
has been burned by fire,
and all our pleasant places have become ruins.
12 Will you restrain yourself at these things, O Lord?
Will you keep silent, and afflict us so terribly?

Sermon OutlineWaiting on God (v4) can be hard, but lament helps us resist the pull towards isolation.

Sin and Its Effects
v15 “Look down from heaven… from your holy and beautiful habitation”; v11 Our holy and beautiful house… has been burned by fire”
vv15-19 “your compassion… held back” “Abraham does not know us” “you… harden our heart” “held possession for a little while” “like those over whom you have never ruled”
vv5-7 “we sinned” “…unclean… righteous deeds are like a polluted garment… we fade like a leaf... no one who calls upon your name…” (“you meet him who joyfully works righteousness”)
Remembering and Its Effects
v5 “You meet him who joyfully works righteousness, those who remember you in your ways.”
v8 “But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” (v16 “For you are our Father”)
v1, 3 “Oh that you would rend the heavens”, “When you did awesome things that we did not look for, you came down”
v4 “no eye has seen a God besides you, who acts for those who wait for him.”
v9 “Behold, please look”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, we have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. We all fade like a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away. There is no one who calls upon your name, who rouses himself to take hold of you; for you have hidden your face from us, and have made us melt in the hand of our iniquities. But now, O LORD, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand. Be not so terribly angry, O LORD, and remember not iniquity forever. Behold, please look, we are all your people. As we join our voices with your people who have confessed their sin and helplessness throughout the ages, we do so in the name of Jesus, who makes forgiveness and our return possible. Grant us forgiveness in his name, and cleansing through your Holy Spirit. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What do you find hardest about waiting on God? What kinds of things do you do, or want to do, when you feel stuck?
What is sin? How do you understand it?
Why is it hard to hear that you are a sinner? What is helpful about learning we are all sinners?
How can you pray prayers of lament? What are you free to do? What should you not do? What is helpful (and what is not helpful)?
What are some ways to resist sins’ pull into alienation? What should you watch for so you don’t get fooled into thoughts or actions that will further separate you from God or people?
Why is remembering a good first step when you feel helpless? What kind of remembering is helpful? What steps might remembering lead to (what is next)?
What are some implications of understanding God as our “Father”? How does the relationship between God and His people framed that way help us?
How does the humility and suffering of Jesus help us in the absence of answers to our questions? What in the mission and character of Jesus helps us wait faithfully in hard seasons?
What role does joyful righteousness play in the Christian life? How can that become more of your way life?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 61:1-11 (ESV)1 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor;
he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives,
and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
2 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor,
and the day of vengeance of our God;
to comfort all who mourn;
3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion—
to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;
that they may be called oaks of righteousness,
the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.
4 They shall build up the ancient ruins;
they shall raise up the former devastations;
they shall repair the ruined cities,
the devastations of many generations.

5 Strangers shall stand and tend your flocks;
foreigners shall be your plowmen and vinedressers;
6 but you shall be called the priests of the Lord;
they shall speak of you as the ministers of our God;
you shall eat the wealth of the nations,
and in their glory you shall boast.
7 Instead of your shame there shall be a double portion;
instead of dishonor they shall rejoice in their lot;
therefore in their land they shall possess a double portion;
they shall have everlasting joy.

8 For I the Lord love justice;
I hate robbery and wrong;
I will faithfully give them their recompense,
and I will make an everlasting covenant with them.
9 Their offspring shall be known among the nations,
and their descendants in the midst of the peoples;
all who see them shall acknowledge them,
that they are an offspring the Lord has blessed.

10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord;
my soul shall exult in my God,
for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation;
he has covered me with the robe of righteousness,
as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress,
and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
11 For as the earth brings forth its sprouts,
and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up,
so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise
to sprout up before all the nations.

Sermon OutlineWhat kind of life will produce righteousness and praise? (v11)

Righteousness
v3 “that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.”
v8 “I the lord love justice, I hate robbery and wrong”
v10 “priest… bride…”
v1-3 “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me… anointed me to bring good news to the poor…”
v10 “for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness”
v4 “they shall repair the ruined cities”
Praise
v10 “… my soul shall exult in God, for he has…”
v9 “an offspring the Lord has blessed”
v7 “they shall have an everlasting joy”
v3, 7 “instead of”

Prayer of ConfessionOur just and merciful Father, our sins alienate us from you and from one another. We wander into places where we become entangled and trapped. Our desires, thoughts and actions evidence our weakness, our foolishness, our arrogance. If we were to reap what we have sown, our future would be dreadful. You are righteous and just, but also unimaginably merciful. We confess our sins and pray for forgiveness. We cannot justify what we have done, nor can we explain away what we have failed to do. Our justification is in Christ our savior, not our own deeds. Cover us with his righteousness. May the good news take root in us. May our lives root firmly in you. May your Spirit produce righteousness and praise. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What outcomes would evidence that you lived your life well?
What is needed for a good life? Do you believe you can have a good life without God?
What from the planting/sprouting imagery can help you understand the nature of a spiritual life where there is growth, strengthen, fruitfulness?
Why do we try to justify ourselves? How do we do it?
What is the good news Jesus brings?
Why is our union with Christ so important? How are we clothed with a robe of righteousness?
How should Christians play a “priestly” role in the world? In what ways do Christians serve God and people? What roles do we have in the repairing of the world?
What in the Chrisitan message or experience produces praise in you? What are some things for which you are particularly thankful?
What is a wise expectation for Christian joy? When Christians endure long hard periods, how should they think about the praise of God?
How can you live as one who has been blessed by God? What does it look like in your day-to-day life to hold that mindset?
How can your life bless others? How can you bring the blessing of God to your relationships, workplace, neighborhood?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 60:1-14, 19-22 (ESV)1 Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
2 For behold, darkness shall cover the earth,
and thick darkness the peoples;
but the Lord will arise upon you,
and his glory will be seen upon you.
3 And nations shall come to your light,
and kings to the brightness of your rising.

4 Lift up your eyes all around, and see;
they all gather together, they come to you;
your sons shall come from afar,
and your daughters shall be carried on the hip.
5 Then you shall see and be radiant;
your heart shall thrill and exult,
because the abundance of the sea shall be turned to you,
the wealth of the nations shall come to you.
6 A multitude of camels shall cover you,
the young camels of Midian and Ephah;
all those from Sheba shall come.
They shall bring gold and frankincense,
and shall bring good news, the praises of the Lord.
7 All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered to you;
the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you;
they shall come up with acceptance on my altar,
and I will beautify my beautiful house.

8 Who are these that fly like a cloud,
and like doves to their windows?
9 For the coastlands shall hope for me,
the ships of Tarshish first,
to bring your children from afar,
their silver and gold with them,
for the name of the Lord your God,
and for the Holy One of Israel,
because he has made you beautiful.

10 Foreigners shall build up your walls,
and their kings shall minister to you;
for in my wrath I struck you,
but in my favor I have had mercy on you.
11 Your gates shall be open continually;
day and night they shall not be shut,
that people may bring to you the wealth of the nations,
with their kings led in procession.
12 For the nation and kingdom
that will not serve you shall perish;
those nations shall be utterly laid waste.
13 The glory of Lebanon shall come to you,
the cypress, the plane, and the pine,
to beautify the place of my sanctuary,
and I will make the place of my feet glorious.
14 The sons of those who afflicted you
shall come bending low to you,
and all who despised you
shall bow down at your feet;
they shall call you the City of the Lord,
the Zion of the Holy One of Israel.

19 The sun shall be no more
your light by day,
nor for brightness shall the moon
give you light;
but the Lord will be your everlasting light,
and your God will be your glory.
20 Your sun shall no more go down,
nor your moon withdraw itself;
for the Lord will be your everlasting light,
and your days of mourning shall be ended.
21 Your people shall all be righteous;
they shall possess the land forever,
the branch of my planting, the work of my hands,
that I might be glorified.
22 The least one shall become a clan,
and the smallest one a mighty nation;
I am the Lord;
in its time I will hasten it.

Sermon OutlineWe are given a picture of where God is leading history that can transform how we live.

Draws Us
v1 “your light has come”
v5 “you shall see and be radiant; your heart shall thrill”
v7 “I will beautify my beautiful house”, v9 “because he has made you beautiful”
Directs Us
v1 “arise”
v2 “darkness shall cover the earth”
v11 “the people may bring to you the wealth of the nations”
v20 “your days of mourning shall be ended”
v19 “sun shall be no more… the Lord will be your everlasting light… your glory”
Utilizes Us
v1 “shine”
v14 “they shall call you the city of the Lord… Zion”
“come”

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father; we have erred and strayed from your ways like lost sheep. We have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts. We have left undone those things that we ought to have done; and we have done those things that we ought not to have done; and there is no health in us. O Lord, have mercy upon us. And grant, O most merciful Father, for your Son Jesus Christ’s sake, that we may hereafter live a godly and righteous life, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Do you believe the future is hopeful? If you imagine a great moment in the future, what do you picture?
What does the theme of light rising and shining help us understand?
What distinguishes true beauty from superficial beauty? Can you think of examples of how true beauty brings life to a person’s soul?
How can the vision of a hopeful future help you endure present difficulties? How can it inspire faithfulness when what you see is discouraging?
How can this picture of people bringing gifts to God inform how you do your work or live your daily life? What does it look like to glorify God with all that you do?
Why are Christians called to be a “city on a hill”? How do good works cause the light of God to shine from us into the world? Do you find joy in doing good?
How can the church improve in being a community that shines light into the world? What can we do differently?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 59:14-21 (ESV)14 Justice is turned back,
and righteousness stands far away;
for truth has stumbled in the public squares,
and uprightness cannot enter.
15 Truth is lacking,
and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey.

The Lord saw it, and it displeased him
that there was no justice.
16 He saw that there was no man,
and wondered that there was no one to intercede;
then his own arm brought him salvation,
and his righteousness upheld him.
17 He put on righteousness as a breastplate,
and a helmet of salvation on his head;
he put on garments of vengeance for clothing,
and wrapped himself in zeal as a cloak.
18 According to their deeds, so will he repay,
wrath to his adversaries, repayment to his enemies;
to the coastlands he will render repayment.
19 So they shall fear the name of the Lord from the west,
and his glory from the rising of the sun;
for he will come like a rushing stream,
which the wind of the Lord drives.

20 “And a Redeemer will come to Zion,
to those in Jacob who turn from transgression,” declares the Lord.

21 “And as for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the Lord: “My Spirit that is upon you, and my words that I have put in your mouth, shall not depart out of your mouth, or out of the mouth of your offspring, or out of the mouth of your children's offspring,” says the Lord, “from this time forth and forevermore.”

Sermon OutlineThe Bible presents Jesus as the answer to the deep and complex questions of life.

The Truth
v14 “truth has stumbled in the public squares, and uprightness cannot enter”
v15 “he who departs from evil makes himself a prey”
The Intercessor
v15 “The Lord saw it, and it displeased him”
v16 “He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no one to intercede”
The Redeemer
v16 then his own arm brought him salvation
v17 He put on…
v20 “a Redeemer will come… turn from transgression”
v21 “this is my covenant… My Spirit that is upon you, and my words… shall not depart…”

Prayer of ConfessionOur holy God, we have all sinned and there are none who are righteous. Truth has stumbled in the public squares. We admit that we have fallen, believing what is false, and attempting to deceive others. We have failed to seek justice and have not always stood with courage against injustice. We have doubted your word. We have not fully surrendered to Jesus, whom you sent. Our thoughts and actions reveal we need a redeemer. We thank you that Jesus came to intercede for us, clothed with righteousness, offering himself for us. We turn from our transgressions to you, asking for forgiveness, with thankful acknowledgement of your mercy. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Where do you see “truth stumbling” today?
Do you find it hard to be honest? Are you straightforward with the truth? When are you tempted to conceal or spin things?
Is God’s anger with human sin justified? What is your response to the Bible’s portrayal of God who is angry with the sin and injustice of our world?
What error are you more likely to make when there is injustice: jumping in hastily and making things worse, or failing to do or say something? Why?
What are some qualities of a faithful intercessor? What are some things you should be prepared to do as a Christian in our corrupt world?
What qualifies Jesus to be the only intercessor between God and humanity? How does he intercede?
What does it say about God that He comes Himself to redeem us?
What can we learn from the fact that God redeems those who had turned from Him at such cost to Himself? How does this help us as we go through life?
Do you believe Jesus is the truth, the way and the life? What questions do you have as you navigate this next stretch of life? What good are you seeking, what troubles are you struggling to deal with, and what are you learning?
How are you making use of God’s Spirit and Word? What role do they play in your life?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 58:1-14 (ESV)1 “Cry aloud; do not hold back;
lift up your voice like a trumpet;
declare to my people their transgression,
to the house of Jacob their sins.
2 Yet they seek me daily
and delight to know my ways,
as if they were a nation that did righteousness
and did not forsake the judgment of their God;
they ask of me righteous judgments;
they delight to draw near to God.
3 ‘Why have we fasted, and you see it not?
Why have we humbled ourselves, and you take no knowledge of it?’
Behold, in the day of your fast you seek your own pleasure,
and oppress all your workers.
4 Behold, you fast only to quarrel and to fight
and to hit with a wicked fist.
Fasting like yours this day
will not make your voice to be heard on high.
5 Is such the fast that I choose,
a day for a person to humble himself?
Is it to bow down his head like a reed,
and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him?
Will you call this a fast,
and a day acceptable to the Lord?

6 “Is not this the fast that I choose:
to loose the bonds of wickedness,
to undo the straps of the yoke,
to let the oppressed go free,
and to break every yoke?
7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry
and bring the homeless poor into your house;
when you see the naked, to cover him,
and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?
8 Then shall your light break forth like the dawn,
and your healing shall spring up speedily;
your righteousness shall go before you;
the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.
9 Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;
you shall cry, and he will say, ‘Here I am.’
If you take away the yoke from your midst,
the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness,
10 if you pour yourself out for the hungry
and satisfy the desire of the afflicted,
then shall your light rise in the darkness
and your gloom be as the noonday.
11 And the Lord will guide you continually
and satisfy your desire in scorched places
and make your bones strong;
and you shall be like a watered garden,
like a spring of water,
whose waters do not fail.
12 And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt;
you shall raise up the foundations of many generations;
you shall be called the repairer of the breach,
the restorer of streets to dwell in.

13 “If you turn back your foot from the Sabbath,
from doing your pleasure on my holy day,
and call the Sabbath a delight
and the holy day of the Lord honorable;
if you honor it, not going your own ways,
or seeking your own pleasure, or talking idly;
14 then you shall take delight in the Lord,
and I will make you ride on the heights of the earth;
I will feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father,
for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

Sermon OutlineIs God a source of delight or a means to it?

Fasting
v3 “why have we fasted, and you see it not?”
vv3-4 “seek your own pleasure… oppress your workers… quarrel… fight”
v5 “is such the fast that I choose?”
The Vulnerable
vv6-7 “bonds of wickedness… oppressed… hungry… homeless… naked…”
v7 “share… bring into your homes”
Sabbath
v13 “call the sabbath a delight”
v13 “your pleasure… your own ways”
v14 “then shall you take delight in the Lord”

Prayer of ConfessionOur amazing God, you are the source of light, healing, righteousness and glory. We confess our guilt and confusion. We have turned from you and devoted ourselves to things that cannot satisfy. We have presumed we could earn your favor, failing to recognize that our frustrations and accusations are evidence of our own sin. We have looked at the poor and needy with arrogant, hard hearts, not discerning our own poverty and need. We return to you, exchanging our false humility and corrupt practices for the life you give in Christ. Forgive us, heal us, and continue to draw us into the delight of life with you. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What brings you delight? What do you value that you willingly make sacrifices for?
Does following Jesus require sacrifice? What are problematic ways we make sacrifices as part of a religious life? What are healthy or wise ways to make sacrifices as part of life with God?
Why is it problematic to think you can earn God’s favor? How can striving to earn God’s favor lead to resentment?
What attitudes towards the vulnerable, the materially poor, or people with needs do you see in yourself?
Why does our attitude towards the materially poor expose us? What deficiencies can we expect to see?
What does the gospel of Jesus reveal about God? If we make sacrifices for what we delight in, what can we infer from Jesus sacrificing his life for us?
How does insight into the depth of the goodness of God bring deep transformation to us? What kind of connection with God brings light, healing, righteousness and glory into our lives?
What practices help us walk with God? How can God and life with Him become more of a source of delight for you?
What roles can fasting and keeping the Lord’s Day (sabbath) play in living a God-centered life?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 56:1-8 (ESV)
1 Thus says the LORD:
“Keep justice, and do righteousness,
for soon my salvation will come,
and my righteousness be revealed.
2 Blessed is the man who does this,
and the son of man who holds it fast,
who keeps the Sabbath, not profaning it,
and keeps his hand from doing any evil.”
3 Let not the foreigner who has joined himself to the LORD say,
“The LORD will surely separate me from his people”;
and let not the eunuch say,
“Behold, I am a dry tree.”
4 For thus says the LORD:
“To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths,
who choose the things that please me
and hold fast my covenant,
5 I will give in my house and within my walls
a monument and a name
better than sons and daughters;
I will give them an everlasting name
that shall not be cut off.
6 “And the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD,
to minister to him, to love the name of the LORD,
and to be his servants,
everyone who keeps the Sabbath and does not profane it,
and holds fast my covenant—
7 these I will bring to my holy mountain,
and make them joyful in my house of prayer;
their burnt offerings and their sacrifices
will be accepted on my altar;
for my house shall be called a house of prayer
for all peoples.”
8 The Lord GOD,
who gathers the outcasts of Israel, declares,
“I will gather yet others to him
besides those already gathered.”

Sermon Outline

What is righteous living? (v.1)

1 Thus says the LORD:

“Keep justice, and do righteousness,

for soon my salvation will come,

and my righteousness be revealed.

Who is righteous living for? (v. 3-6)

[4] For thus says the LORD:

“To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths,

who choose the things that please me

and hold fast my covenant,

[6] “And the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD,

to minister to him, to love the name of the LORD,

and to be his servants,

everyone who keeps the Sabbath and does not profane it,

and holds fast my covenant—

[3] Let not the foreigner who has joined himself to the LORD say,

“The LORD will surely separate me from his people”;

and let not the eunuch say,

“Behold, I am a dry tree.”

How do we live righteously? (v. 4-8)

[4] For thus says the LORD:

“To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths,

who choose the things that please me

and hold fast my covenant,

[5] I will give in my house and within my walls

a monument and a name

better than sons and daughters;

I will give them an everlasting name

that shall not be cut off.

[7] these I will bring to my holy mountain,

and make them joyful in my house of prayer;

their burnt offerings and their sacrifices

will be accepted on my altar;

[7] for my house shall be called a house of prayer

for all peoples.”

[8] The Lord GOD,

who gathers the outcasts of Israel, declares,

“I will gather yet others to him

besides those already gathered.”

Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, you call us to keep justice and do righteousness, but we often put ourselves first than our neighbors. We make it more difficult for others to enter your kingdom, and we lose sight of how you graciously welcomed us despite our sins. Thank you for the righteous life of Jesus who ended our fears, gathered us to your family, and invites us to live righteously so that more may taste heaven. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
In your own words, how would you describe righteous living after reading Isaiah 56:1?
When did you receive or experience someone else’s righteous living?
Our passage tells us that foreigners and eunuchs, once considered outsiders, are now fully welcomed by God. Why do you think this would have been surprising and challenging for the original listeners?
Why is the practice of Sabbath so central in this passage?
How does Jesus show righteous living differently than we might typically think about it?
If righteous living means following Jesus and continuing his ministry, what’s one small but meaningful way you can live righteously this week?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 55:1-13 (ESV)1 “Come, everyone who thirsts,
come to the waters;
and he who has no money,
come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
without money and without price.
2 Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread,
and your labor for that which does not satisfy?
Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good,
and delight yourselves in rich food.
3 Incline your ear, and come to me;
hear, that your soul may live;
and I will make with you an everlasting covenant,
my steadfast, sure love for David.
4 Behold, I made him a witness to the peoples,
a leader and commander for the peoples.
5 Behold, you shall call a nation that you do not know,
and a nation that did not know you shall run to you,
because of the Lord your God, and of the Holy One of Israel,
for he has glorified you.

6 “Seek the Lord while he may be found;
call upon him while he is near;
7 let the wicked forsake his way,
and the unrighteous man his thoughts;
let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him,
and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.

10 “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven
and do not return there but water the earth,
making it bring forth and sprout,
giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,
11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth;
it shall not return to me empty,
but it shall accomplish that which I purpose,
and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

12 “For you shall go out in joy
and be led forth in peace;
the mountains and the hills before you
shall break forth into singing,
and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress;
instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle;
and it shall make a name for the Lord,
an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.”

Sermon OutlineIsaiah has a message that gives life to weary souls (v3). What do you need to hear?

A question
v2 “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?”
v1 “thirsts”, v6 “seek”
V10-11 “as the rain and snow come down… water the earth, making it bring forth…”
An invitation
v1-3 “come… listen diligently… incline your ear”
v11 “so shall my word be… it shall accomplish…”
v7 “return to the Lord… compassion… abundantly pardon”
A better way
v9 “my ways… my thoughts…”
v7 “forsake his way…thoughts”
v6 “seek the Lord”
v13 “instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress”
v12 “you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace”

Prayer of ConfessionOur compassionate God, who pardons abundantly: we receive your word and humbly respond with confession. We acknowledge that our ways have not been your ways, and our thoughts have not been your thoughts. You called, but we did not come. You gave words of life, but we did not listen. We have been troubled by our own thoughts and our ways have produced suffering. We have labored for that which cannot satisfy. We are weary. You alone can grant forgiveness, so we ask for it. You alone can give life, so we turn to you for it. We thank you that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Through him, set us free. Teach us your thoughts and lead us in your way. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What are you looking for in life? What do you go into the world hoping to find or attain? What do you seek first?
How are you laboring for “that which does not satisfy”? What drains you or leads to exhaustion?
Do you have an interest in God’s thoughts? How can you learn from God?
How are your ways not in line with God’s ways? Do you believe God’s ways are wise and good?
God invites you to think differently, and to live a new way - what appeals to you in this invitation? What bothers you?
Why are God’s compassion and forgiveness essential for change?
Can you do anything to get life from God? Why is it important to recognize you cannot earn or achieve eternal life?
What is repentance? How is turning to God something we have to do continually?
Is there a particular habit or pattern that you are trying to change or break free from? What does it look like to work on this change with God? How does trusting Christ help you live differently?
How can you make walking with God your priority? How can this bring life to all you are doing?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 52:13-53:12 (ESV)13 Behold, my servant shall act wisely;
he shall be high and lifted up,
and shall be exalted.
14 As many were astonished at you—
his appearance was so marred, beyond human semblance,
and his form beyond that of the children of mankind—
15 so shall he sprinkle many nations.
Kings shall shut their mouths because of him,
for that which has not been told them they see,
and that which they have not heard they understand.
53:1 Who has believed what he has heard from us?
And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?
2 For he grew up before him like a young plant,
and like a root out of dry ground;
he had no form or majesty that we should look at him,
and no beauty that we should desire him.
3 He was despised and rejected by men,
a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief;
and as one from whom men hide their faces
he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

4 Surely he has borne our griefs
and carried our sorrows;
yet we esteemed him stricken,
smitten by God, and afflicted.
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions;
he was crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with his wounds we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have turned—every one—to his own way;
and the Lord has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.

7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted,
yet he opened not his mouth;
like a lamb that is led to the slaughter,
and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent,
so he opened not his mouth.
8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away;
and as for his generation, who considered
that he was cut off out of the land of the living,
stricken for the transgression of my people?
9 And they made his grave with the wicked
and with a rich man in his death,
although he had done no violence,
and there was no deceit in his mouth.

10 Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him;
he has put him to grief;
when his soul makes an offering for guilt,
he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days;
the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.
11 Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied;
by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant,
make many to be accounted righteous,
and he shall bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore I will divide him a portion with the many,
and he shall divide the spoil with the strong,
because he poured out his soul to death
and was numbered with the transgressors;
yet he bore the sin of many,
and makes intercession for the transgressors.

Sermon OutlineOur longings to ascend are only satisfied in the one who descended. (52:13)

How Bad Things Are
53:6 “all we like sheep have gone astray”
53:2-3 “…no form… that we should desire… despise and rejected… we esteemed him not”
53:9 “although… there was no deceit in his mouth…”
53:4 “yet we esteemed him… stricken by God”
53:1 “who has believed?”
How Good God Is
52:14 “many were astonished”
53:3 “a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief”
53:5 “he was pierced for our transgressions… with his wounds we are healed”
53:6 “the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all”
53:11 “by his knowledge… make many to be accounted righteous”
How Wise We Need to Be
52:13 “Behold, my servant shall act wisely”
53:10 “it was the will of the Lord”
53:10 “when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring”
53:11 “out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied”

Prayer of ConfessionOur great and exalted God, we need you to lead us in the way of life. We all are like sheep who have gone astray. We have not trusted you. We have not listened to you. We have not understood you. Foolishly rejecting you, we have done many things we should never have done. Our thoughts and actions expose deep roots of sin. We are astonished that your love is so sacrificial. We marvel that Jesus would suffer such terrible things to bear our iniquities. Forgive us. Heal us. Lead us in the way of righteousness and peace. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Describe your desires for an “upward” life. How are you desiring growth, progress, a better future, etc.? What do you imagine fulfillment of those desires will look like?
What is your response to the Bible’s claim that all humans have sinned/are sinners? What feelings does that provoke?
What can you learn from the metaphor that we are like sheep who have gone astray?
Why was Jesus, a person who did so much good and nothing wrong, treated so terribly? What can we learn about human nature from how we responded to Jesus?
How does the extreme suffering of Jesus reveal unique qualities of God? What do you see?
Why did Jesus suffer as he did? Do you believe that he did these things for you? What do you have trouble understanding?
Is there a way you can make yourself righteous? How does Isaiah 53 describe how things get fixed?
What deep wounds can start to be healed as you open your life to the sacrificial love of God for you?
Does Jesus teach us to seek suffering? Is the goal of life to give up good for misery? How do you wisely incorporate Jesus’ teachings on suffering into your life?
What are wise goals for life? What end are you oriented towards?
How can you follow Jesus through periods of suffering? What is helpful to remember, to hold to, to hope for?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 26:9-21 (ESV)9 My soul yearns for you in the night;
my spirit within me earnestly seeks you.
For when your judgments are in the earth,
the inhabitants of the world learn righteousness.
10 If favor is shown to the wicked,
he does not learn righteousness;
in the land of uprightness he deals corruptly
and does not see the majesty of the Lord.
11 O Lord, your hand is lifted up,
but they do not see it.
Let them see your zeal for your people, and be ashamed.
Let the fire for your adversaries consume them.
12 O Lord, you will ordain peace for us,
for you have indeed done for us all our works.
13 O Lord our God,
other lords besides you have ruled over us,
but your name alone we bring to remembrance.
14 They are dead, they will not live;
they are shades, they will not arise;
to that end you have visited them with destruction
and wiped out all remembrance of them.
15 But you have increased the nation, O Lord,
you have increased the nation; you are glorified;
you have enlarged all the borders of the land.

16 O Lord, in distress they sought you;
they poured out a whispered prayer
when your discipline was upon them.
17 Like a pregnant woman
who writhes and cries out in her pangs
when she is near to giving birth,
so were we because of you, O Lord;
18 we were pregnant, we writhed,
but we have given birth to wind.
We have accomplished no deliverance in the earth,
and the inhabitants of the world have not fallen.
19 Your dead shall live; their bodies shall rise.
You who dwell in the dust, awake and sing for joy!
For your dew is a dew of light,
and the earth will give birth to the dead.

20 Come, my people, enter your chambers,
and shut your doors behind you;
hide yourselves for a little while
until the fury has passed by.
21 For behold, the Lord is coming out from his place
to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity,
and the earth will disclose the blood shed on it,
and will no more cover its slain.

Sermon OutlineThe Easter message is life-giving news for people who are drying out and dying (v19).

You Who Dwell in the Dust
v9 “my soul yearns for you in the night… the inhabitants of the world learn righteousness”
v16 “in distress they sought you, they poured out a whispered prayer…”
v17-18 “like a pregnant woman who writhes and cries out in her pangs… we writhed but we have given birth to wind.”
Awake and Sing for Joy
v21 “behold the Lord is coming… the earth will disclose the blood shed in it…”
v19 “your dead shall live… the earth will give birth to the dead”
v19 “your dew is a dew of light”

Prayer of ConfessionO living God, our souls yearn for you. We are children of dust – frail, broken, and burdened by the corruption that dwells within us and all around us. Like Cain, we wrestle with shame, envy and anger. Our efforts to mend ourselves and repair the world have been like labor pains that give birth to wind. We need Jesus – the One who descended in humility, who entered our dust to raise us from it. We need your Spirit - to breathe life into our dying bodies, to revive hearts grown cold, and to raise us from the ashes of our sin. Do not deal with us as our sins deserve, but look upon us with mercy. Forgive us for the sake of Christ, who gave his life that we might have life in him. Awaken us, O Lord, to your marvelous grace. Renew us by the power of your resurrection. And lead us into the joy of new life, through Jesus Christ, our risen savior. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Do you ever feel like you “dwell in the dust”? What does it mean to be dust? Describe what it is like to feel like you dwell in dust.
Can you relate to Cain, who felt he wasn’t good enough, needed to improve, but whose growing resentment outpaced his energy to fix himself or rightly deal with his problem? What temptations rise when our efforts fail and frustrations grow
How do you respond to the injustices of the world – when the innocent suffer and the guilty seem to thrive? How does this shape your trust in God, His justice, His timing?
Does it feel like something is missing in life? What do you think it is?
Why is it significant that Abel is remembered in the New Testament? What can we infer from the fact that Jesus came remembering Abel and the righteous whose blood was shed since his time?
How are Jesus’ sufferings like labor pains?
How does receiving the Holy Spirit change us? Keeping in mind the imagery of dry dust, what happens when God’s Spirit starts to work within us?
What are some specific components of the Easter message that are reasons for rejoicing? What can you recognize, take hold of, and meditate on, that would breathe hope and encouragement into your soul?
Have you ever prayed to receive the Holy Spirit? If not, what is stopping you? If you have, how can you seek God for fillings of the Spirit? What priorities will help you live a Spirit-empowered life?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 49:8-18 (ESV)8 Thus says the Lord:
“In a time of favor I have answered you;
in a day of salvation I have helped you;
I will keep you and give you
as a covenant to the people,
to establish the land,
to apportion the desolate heritages,
9 saying to the prisoners, ‘Come out,’
to those who are in darkness, ‘Appear.’
They shall feed along the ways;
on all bare heights shall be their pasture;
10 they shall not hunger or thirst,
neither scorching wind nor sun shall strike them,
for he who has pity on them will lead them,
and by springs of water will guide them.
11 And I will make all my mountains a road,
and my highways shall be raised up.
12 Behold, these shall come from afar,
and behold, these from the north and from the west,
and these from the land of Syene.”

13 Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth;
break forth, O mountains, into singing!
For the Lord has comforted his people
and will have compassion on his afflicted.

14 But Zion said, “The Lord has forsaken me;
my Lord has forgotten me.”

15 “Can a woman forget her nursing child,
that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb?
Even these may forget,
yet I will not forget you.
16 Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands;
your walls are continually before me.
17 Your builders make haste;
your destroyers and those who laid you waste go out from you.
18 Lift up your eyes around and see;
they all gather, they come to you.
As I live, declares the Lord,
you shall put them all on as an ornament;
you shall bind them on as a bride does.

Sermon Outline1. The good news is abundant (v. 8-13)

v8 to establish the land, to apportion the desolate heritages
vv9-10 They shall feed along the ways; on all bare heights shall be their pasture; they shall not hunger or thirst
v10 neither scorching wind nor sun shall strike them
v10 for he who has pity on them will lead them, and by springs of water will guide them.
v11 And I will make all my mountains a road, and my highways shall be raised up.
v12 Behold, these shall come from afar, and behold, these from the north and from the west, and these from the land of
The good news is unseen (v. 14)
v14 But Zion said, “The LORD has forsaken me; my Lord has forgotten me.”
The good news is permanent (v. 15-18)
v15 yet I will not forget you.
v16 I have engraved you

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, you are the author and giver of good news. We confess that we fail to see how abundant this good news is for us. In our pain and suffering, we say that you have forsaken us and have forgotten us. We confess that we are slow to believe and see your good news. Help our unbelief. May we look to the scars of Jesus and how we are engraved on the palms of his hands. Restore to us the joy of your salvation. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
How does Isaiah 49 expand your understanding of God’s character, especially in terms of His personal involvement in our rescue and restoration?
Why do you think it matters that this good news is not just for the exiles in Babylon, but for people from every nation and language?
Can you think of a time when you felt forgotten by God or wondered where he was? What helped you during this time, or what would have helped?
How does pain and suffering affect your relationship with God?
In verse 16 it says that God’s people are engraved on the palms of his hands. What does that image mean to you personally? How might it reshape how you view yourself or your relationship with God?
Why do you think it matters that Jesus’ scars remained in his resurrected body? How do Jesus’ scars speak to both his suffering and his commitment to you?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 48:1-11 (ESV)1 Hear this, O house of Jacob,
who are called by the name of Israel,
and who came from the waters of Judah,
who swear by the name of the Lord
and confess the God of Israel,
but not in truth or right.
2 For they call themselves after the holy city,
and stay themselves on the God of Israel;
the Lord of hosts is his name.

3 “The former things I declared of old;
they went out from my mouth, and I announced them;
then suddenly I did them, and they came to pass.
4 Because I know that you are obstinate,
and your neck is an iron sinew
and your forehead brass,
5 I declared them to you from of old,
before they came to pass I announced them to you,
lest you should say, ‘My idol did them,
my carved image and my metal image commanded them.’

6 “You have heard; now see all this;
and will you not declare it?
From this time forth I announce to you new things,
hidden things that you have not known.
7 They are created now, not long ago;
before today you have never heard of them,
lest you should say, ‘Behold, I knew them.’
8 You have never heard, you have never known,
from of old your ear has not been opened.
For I knew that you would surely deal treacherously,
and that from before birth you were called a rebel.

9 “For my name's sake I defer my anger;
for the sake of my praise I restrain it for you,
that I may not cut you off.
10 Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver;
I have tried you in the furnace of affliction.
11 For my own sake, for my own sake, I do it,
for how should my name be profaned?
My glory I will not give to another.

Sermon OutlineHow can you get out of the trap of hypocrisy?

The Inner Turmoil of Hypocrisy
v1 “who… confess the God of Israel, but not in truth or right”
The Lure of Relief with Idolatry
v4 “Because I know that you are obstinate”
v5 “before they came to pass I announced them to you, lest you should say, ‘My idol did them, my carved image and my metal image commanded them.’”
The Integrity of the Way of Christ
v6 “I announce to you new things, hidden things that you have not known.”
v7 ‘before today you have never heard of them, lest you should say, ‘Behold, I knew them.’”
v9 “For my name’s sake I defer my anger”
v11 “My glory I will not give to another”

Prayer of ConfessionOur merciful God, you are so patient with us. We are guilty of hypocrisy. We have hidden our sins and exaggerated our gifts. We have been more concerned for our name and glory than yours. We have turned to idols when we should have turned to you in our time of need. Forgive us all of our sins. May your Holy Spirit cleanse and soften our hard hearts. We turn to you in the name of Jesus, who is full of truth and grace. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What bothers you about hypocrites?
How are you affected by your own hypocrisy? What can you expect will result if hypocrisy goes unchecked?
Are you particularly attuned to things around you that you yourself struggle with? Do you get angry with others for things you are trying to fix in yourself?
Why are you more prone to instant gratification when you are experiencing inner turmoil? Why are idols more appealing and deceptive when you are feeling bad about yourself?
Why are superficial people drawn to idols? What do hypocrites and idols have in common?
What are your convictions about the integrity of God?
Are you aware of any flaws in Jesus? Is there anything to indicate Jesus is untrustworthy?
How does the sacrificial love of Jesus soften hard hearts?
What challenges will you face if you commit to a life of integrity? What will be hard? What habits will you have to change?
What are differences between Jesus, who shows you how to discern right from wrong, and cynics who train you to spot what is flawed? As you learn to discern right from wrong, how can you know if you are maturing (gaining discernment) or if you are moving down a destructive path?
Where can you apply or practice the pattern of beginning with the prayer “help me Jesus” and finishing with the commitment “to God alone be the glory”?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Retreat 2025

Genesis 5:21-24 (ESV)21 When Enoch had lived 65 years, he fathered Methuselah. 22 Enoch walked with God after he fathered Methuselah 300 years and had other sons and daughters. 23 Thus all the days of Enoch were 365 years. 24 Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him.

Hebrews 11:5-6 (ESV) 5 By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. 6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Prayer of ConfessionMerciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart and mind and strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. In your mercy forgive what we have been, help us amend what we are, and direct what we shall be, so that we may delight in your will and walk in your ways, to the glory of your holy name. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 45:18-25 (ESV)18 For thus says the Lord,
who created the heavens
(he is God!),
who formed the earth and made it
(he established it;
he did not create it empty,
he formed it to be inhabited!):
“I am the Lord, and there is no other.
19 I did not speak in secret,
in a land of darkness;
I did not say to the offspring of Jacob,
‘Seek me in vain.’
I the Lord speak the truth;
I declare what is right.

20 “Assemble yourselves and come;
draw near together,
you survivors of the nations!
They have no knowledge
who carry about their wooden idols,
and keep on praying to a god
that cannot save.
21 Declare and present your case;
let them take counsel together!
Who told this long ago?
Who declared it of old?
Was it not I, the Lord?
And there is no other god besides me,
a righteous God and a Savior;
there is none besides me.

22 “Turn to me and be saved,
all the ends of the earth!
For I am God, and there is no other.
23 By myself I have sworn;
from my mouth has gone out in righteousness
a word that shall not return:
‘To me every knee shall bow,
every tongue shall swear allegiance.’

24 “Only in the Lord, it shall be said of me,
are righteousness and strength;
to him shall come and be ashamed
all who were incensed against him.
25 In the Lord all the offspring of Israel
shall be justified and shall glory.”

Sermon OutlineAre you living in the wrong story?

Faithfulness of God to His Plans
v18 “For thus says the Lord, who created… he did not create it empty, he formed it to be inhabited!”
v19 “I did not speak in secret, I did not say… ‘Seek me in vain.’ I the Lord speak the truth”
Frustration Because of Our Plans
v20 “…you survivors of the nations! …who carry about their wooden idols, and keep on praying to a god that cannot save.”
v23 “… word that shall not return: ‘To me every knee shall bow...”
v24 “…all who were incensed against him”
Freedom In the Plans of Jesus
v22 “Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth!”
v24 “only in the Lord shall it be said of me, are righteousness and strength”
v25 “In the Lord all the offspring of Israel shall be justified and shall glory.”

Prayer of ConfessionSovereign Lord, You alone are wise, powerful, and good. You are perfect in all Your ways, and yet, we confess that we are not. We have often thought too highly of ourselves. When our sense of entitlement clashes with reality, we fail to learn and grow. Instead of humbling ourselves, we become angry—angry at You, angry at others—desperate to maintain control. In our pride, we have harbored contempt in our hearts and allowed it to shape our actions. Our sins are many, and they have made us unrighteous.

But You, O God, are righteous and merciful. We are humbled and grateful that Your plan includes saving sinners like us. We thank You for the gift of Jesus, our righteousness and our strength. We pray for forgiveness in His name. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

If you were to give a synopsis of the human story, what would it be? Where are things going, and how do you know?
Do you think God should stay focused on his original plans, or should he pivot to make his focus destroying evil? Why or why not?
Is it ever appropriate to be angry with God?
How can you tell if you are angry because you have a sense of entitlement?
What can you do when you experience the frustration of having trusted in things that are failing you? What are your options?
God said that everyone will come and bow before Him. How does that make you feel?
What does it say about God that in the days of Isaiah he sent out a message calling everyone (“all the ends of the earth”) to turn to him and be saved?
How does the humility of Jesus help dissolve people’s pride? What do we need to see or understand to experience change and healing?
What do you look to for righteousness and strength? Why is Jesus the only source of righteousness and strength?
What keeps you from regularly bowing down in worship and rejoicing at the greatness of God? What can you do to enable this to be a more regular experience?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 45:1-13 (ESV)1 Thus says the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus,
whose right hand I have grasped,
to subdue nations before him
and to loose the belts of kings,
to open doors before him
that gates may not be closed:
2 “I will go before you
and level the exalted places,
I will break in pieces the doors of bronze
and cut through the bars of iron,
3 I will give you the treasures of darkness
and the hoards in secret places,
that you may know that it is I, the Lord,
the God of Israel, who call you by your name.
4 For the sake of my servant Jacob,
and Israel my chosen,
I call you by your name,
I name you, though you do not know me.
5 I am the Lord, and there is no other,
besides me there is no God;
I equip you, though you do not know me,
6 that people may know, from the rising of the sun
and from the west, that there is none besides me;
I am the Lord, and there is no other.
7 I form light and create darkness;
I make well-being and create calamity;
I am the Lord, who does all these things.

8 “Shower, O heavens, from above,
and let the clouds rain down righteousness;
let the earth open, that salvation and righteousness may bear fruit;
let the earth cause them both to sprout;
I the Lord have created it.

9 “Woe to him who strives with him who formed him,
a pot among earthen pots!
Does the clay say to him who forms it, ‘What are you making?’
or ‘Your work has no handles’?
10 Woe to him who says to a father, ‘What are you begetting?’
or to a woman, ‘With what are you in labor?’”

11 Thus says the Lord,
the Holy One of Israel, and the one who formed him:
“Ask me of things to come;
will you command me concerning my children and the work of my hands?
12 I made the earth
and created man on it;
it was my hands that stretched out the heavens,
and I commanded all their host.
13 I have stirred him up in righteousness,
and I will make all his ways level;
he shall build my city
and set my exiles free,
not for price or reward,”
says the Lord of hosts.

Sermon Outline1. What does it mean that God is in control? (v. 1-8)

v.1 to his anointed, to Cyrus,
v.3 … who call you by your name.
v.4 …I call you by your name,
v.4 …I name you, though you do not know me.v.5 …I equip you, though you do not know me.
Why might we not like his control? (v. 9-13)
v.9…‘What are you making?’ or ‘Your work has no handles’?
v.10… ‘What are you begetting?’… ‘With what are you in labor?’”
Why is it good news that God is in control? (v. 1, 3)
v.1 … to his anointed, to Cyrus,
v.3…that you may know that it is I, the LORD,

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, you are in full control over the entire universe, and yet, we do not notice how you are present and at work in our lives. We do not trust that you have our best interests in mind, and so we’d rather control our lives. But who are we to question you, our Creator and Heavenly Father, who works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose? May we trust in Jesus, the anointed one, who is our savior and rescuer, who has set us free. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
How does the story of Israel’s exile and return illustrate how God is in control of all things?
If God is in control of all things, how might that help us respond to hard and challenging times? In what ways do you feel as though it’s not helpful?
How did God’s use of Cyrus challenge the expectations of his people?
In what ways do we sometimes believe we know what’s best for ourselves rather than trusting in God?
How is God’s control over all things a source of comfort and good news for you?
Take a moment to consider how God might be calling you to notice more of his presence in your life. What part of your life might be within God’s plan for you to know that he is the Lord?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 42:1-9 (ESV)1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold,
my chosen, in whom my soul delights;
I have put my Spirit upon him;
he will bring forth justice to the nations.
2 He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice,
or make it heard in the street;
3 a bruised reed he will not break,
and a faintly burning wick he will not quench;
he will faithfully bring forth justice.
4 He will not grow faint or be discouraged
till he has established justice in the earth;
and the coastlands wait for his law.

5 Thus says God, the Lord,
who created the heavens and stretched them out,
who spread out the earth and what comes from it,
who gives breath to the people on it
and spirit to those who walk in it:
6 “I am the Lord; I have called you in righteousness;
I will take you by the hand and keep you;
I will give you as a covenant for the people,
a light for the nations,
7 to open the eyes that are blind,
to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,
from the prison those who sit in darkness.
8 I am the Lord; that is my name;
my glory I give to no other,
nor my praise to carved idols.
9 Behold, the former things have come to pass,
and new things I now declare;
before they spring forth
I tell you of them.”

Sermon OutlineWhere do we get help for our weariness? “Behold my servant” (v1,4)

Watch where God directs you.
v1 “Behold my servant…in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice...”
v9 “before they spring forth I tell you of them”
v2 “He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street”
vv6-7 “open the eyes that are blind”
v8 “…nor my praise to carved idols”
Don’t withdraw.
v3-4 “a bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench”
v5 “who gives breath… and spirit…”
Go with God into the world.
v5 Thus says God… who created…”
v4 “and the coastlands wait for his law”
v6 “I will give you as… light for the nations”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Lord and our God: You have sent Your Son, Jesus, into the world to establish true justice and to bring healing to our brokenness. We come before You in humility, admitting our confusion and the darkness that clouds our hearts and minds. We have allowed sin to stain our thoughts, words, and actions, and we have often turned to false idols instead of worshiping You, the one true and living God.

We confess our failures and ask for Your forgiveness. Cleanse us from all unrighteousness and restore us to Yourself. In our weakness, we cry out to You for strength. Have mercy on us and shine the light of Christ upon us. Amen..

Questions for Reflection

What is currently causing weariness in your life? What are you making sacrifices for? What are you hoping to get in return?
What has your attention? What occupies your mind? What do you notice or seek out?
Why are people drawn toward appearances? What problems or challenges does that create?
If Jesus walked the earth today what would people expect of him or want him to do? What would you want to see to help you be more firmly convinced?
Why is the gentleness of Jesus crucial for what he came to do?
How are you still trying to earn salvation? Why is the gospel of grace through faith so hard for us to grasp and implement?
How can looking to Jesus in periods of weakness be a means of finding strength?
What is needed to actively serve God in the world without burning out?
What can you be doing so that the light of Christ shines from you to bring a witness to God into the world?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 40:12-31 (ESV)12 Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand
and marked off the heavens with a span,
enclosed the dust of the earth in a measure
and weighed the mountains in scales
and the hills in a balance?
13 Who has measured the Spirit of the Lord,
or what man shows him his counsel?
14 Whom did he consult,
and who made him understand?
Who taught him the path of justice,
and taught him knowledge,
and showed him the way of understanding?
15 Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket,
and are accounted as the dust on the scales;
behold, he takes up the coastlands like fine dust.
16 Lebanon would not suffice for fuel,
nor are its beasts enough for a burnt offering.
17 All the nations are as nothing before him,
they are accounted by him as less than nothing and emptiness.

18 To whom then will you liken God,
or what likeness compare with him?
19 An idol! A craftsman casts it,
and a goldsmith overlays it with gold
and casts for it silver chains.
20 He who is too impoverished for an offering
chooses wood that will not rot;
he seeks out a skillful craftsman
to set up an idol that will not move.

21 Do you not know? Do you not hear?
Has it not been told you from the beginning?
Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth?
22 It is he who sits above the circle of the earth,
and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers;
who stretches out the heavens like a curtain,
and spreads them like a tent to dwell in;
23 who brings princes to nothing,
and makes the rulers of the earth as emptiness.

24 Scarcely are they planted, scarcely sown,
scarcely has their stem taken root in the earth,
when he blows on them, and they wither,
and the tempest carries them off like stubble.

25 To whom then will you compare me,
that I should be like him? says the Holy One.
26 Lift up your eyes on high and see:
who created these?
He who brings out their host by number,
calling them all by name;
by the greatness of his might
and because he is strong in power,
not one is missing.

27 Why do you say, O Jacob,
and speak, O Israel,
“My way is hidden from the Lord,
and my right is disregarded by my God”?
28 Have you not known? Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He does not faint or grow weary;
his understanding is unsearchable.
29 He gives power to the faint,
and to him who has no might he increases strength.
30 Even youths shall faint and be weary,
and young men shall fall exhausted;
31 but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint.

Sermon OutlineIf we are not drawing life from God we will not be sustained (vv28-31).

Confusion
v28 Have you not known? …his understanding is unsearchable.
v13 what man shows him his counsel?
vv18-19 To whom then will you liken God, or what likeness compare with him? An idol!
Fear
v20 He who is too impoverished… chooses wood… to set up an idol that will not move.
v15 Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket
v25 To whom then will you compare me…?
Renewal
v27 Why do you say… “My way is hidden from the Lord, and my right is disregarded by my God”?
v29 He gives power to the faint
v31 they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength
v26 Lift up your eyes on high and see

Prayer of ConfessionOur eternal Creator, all-powerful and all-wise: we humbly acknowledge our sin and weakness. Trusting our own wisdom, we have wrongly presumed to know better than you. In fear we have sought control and placed our trust in the things of our world. We have fashioned idols in our hearts. We have wearied ourselves with the very things you warn us against. Lord, we ask for your forgiveness. Renew your Spirit in us and strengthen us with the grace we need to live according to your will. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What don’t you understand about God? Can you know God?
How do you feel making decisions or moving forward in life without knowing all you need to know? How do you deal with this or approach these situations?
Is it good that we can’t fully understand God? How is faith good for us? How is faith hard for you?
How do things become idols? What should we be looking for to determine if we are simply enjoying or benefiting from something, or if we have become devoted to it and crossed a line into idolatry?
What fears are frequently present in your life? How are those fears shaping your decisions? Your perceptions? What do you look to for help when you are afraid?
How can the Christian life become draining?
How does faith in Christ give people strength?
What does it look like to wait on the Lord?
What practices help us to lift our eyes up to see and experience the power and glory of God? What can you do to keep your sights set on God in a way that renews your strength?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 40:1-11 (ESV)1 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.
2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,
and cry to her
that her warfare is ended,
that her iniquity is pardoned,
that she has received from the Lord's hand
double for all her sins.

3 A voice cries:
“In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord;
make straight in the desert a highway for our God.
4 Every valley shall be lifted up,
and every mountain and hill be made low;
the uneven ground shall become level,
and the rough places a plain.
5 And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed,
and all flesh shall see it together,
for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

6 A voice says, “Cry!”
And I said, “What shall I cry?”
All flesh is grass,
and all its beauty is like the flower of the field.
7 The grass withers, the flower fades
when the breath of the Lord blows on it;
surely the people are grass.
8 The grass withers, the flower fades,
but the word of our God will stand forever.

9 Go on up to a high mountain,
O Zion, herald of good news;
lift up your voice with strength,
O Jerusalem, herald of good news;
lift it up, fear not;
say to the cities of Judah,
“Behold your God!”
10 Behold, the Lord God comes with might,
and his arm rules for him;
behold, his reward is with him,
and his recompense before him.
11 He will tend his flock like a shepherd;
he will gather the lambs in his arms;
he will carry them in his bosom,
and gently lead those that are with young.

Sermon Outline1. Why do we need it? (v. 6-8)

v. 6 All flesh is grass,
v. 7 The grass withers, the flower fades…surely the people are grass.
v. 8 The grass withers, the flower fades,
How do we get it? (v. 3-4)
v. 3 … prepare the way of the LORD; make straight…
v. 4 …l be lifted up,…be made low;…become level,… a plain.
What exactly is it? (v. 1-2, 9-11)
v.1 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.
v. 9 …“Behold your God!”
v. 10 Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might,…behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him.

Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, all of us are frail human beings. We do not like admitting that we have limits and that we have far less control than we think. We strive for more autonomy and less dependency on others. But this leads to our own ruin. We also do not give you the honor you are due. We refuse your comfort and seek comfort in the things of the world that do not satisfy. Turn our eyes to Jesus, the one who received ultimate discomfort, so that we could receive the satisfying comfort of God. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Describe how you face the reality of having limits. Do you embrace this? Do you struggle with this?
When is self-sufficiency a good thing? When is it not?
In what ways is God worthy of all respect and honor? How do we express this in our day to day life? In what ways do you struggle to give God the honor he is due?
To what/whom do you look to give you comfort? Why is the comfort of God not always appealing?
If Jesus truly secured for us the comfort of God that truly satisfies, how might God be calling you to trust in this good news?
How might God be calling you to gift his comfort to someone else you know?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 38:1-39:8 (ESV)38:1 In those days Hezekiah became sick and was at the point of death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came to him, and said to him, “Thus says the Lord: Set your house in order, for you shall die, you shall not recover.” 2 Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, 3 and said, “Please, O Lord, remember how I have walked before you in faithfulness and with a whole heart, and have done what is good in your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly.

4 Then the word of the Lord came to Isaiah: 5 “Go and say to Hezekiah, Thus says the Lord, the God of David your father: I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will add fifteen years to your life. 6 I will deliver you and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria, and will defend this city.

7 “This shall be the sign to you from the Lord, that the Lord will do this thing that he has promised: 8 Behold, I will make the shadow cast by the declining sun on the dial of Ahaz turn back ten steps.” So the sun turned back on the dial the ten steps by which it had declined.

9 A writing of Hezekiah king of Judah, after he had been sick and had recovered from his sickness:

10 I said, In the middle of my days
I must depart;
I am consigned to the gates of Sheol
for the rest of my years.
11 I said, I shall not see the Lord,
the Lord in the land of the living;
I shall look on man no more
among the inhabitants of the world.
12 My dwelling is plucked up and removed from me
like a shepherd's tent;
like a weaver I have rolled up my life;
he cuts me off from the loom;
from day to night you bring me to an end;
13 I calmed myself until morning;
like a lion he breaks all my bones;
from day to night you bring me to an end.

14 Like a swallow or a crane I chirp;
I moan like a dove.
My eyes are weary with looking upward.
O Lord, I am oppressed; be my pledge of safety!
15 What shall I say? For he has spoken to me,
and he himself has done it.
I walk slowly all my years
because of the bitterness of my soul.

16 O Lord, by these things men live,
and in all these is the life of my spirit.
Oh restore me to health and make me live!
17 Behold, it was for my welfare
that I had great bitterness;
but in love you have delivered my life
from the pit of destruction,
for you have cast all my sins
behind your back.
18 For Sheol does not thank you;
death does not praise you;
those who go down to the pit do not hope
for your faithfulness.
19 The living, the living, he thanks you,
as I do this day;
the father makes known to the children
your faithfulness.

20 The Lord will save me,
and we will play my music on stringed instruments
all the days of our lives,
at the house of the Lord.

21 Now Isaiah had said, “Let them take a cake of figs and apply it to the boil, that he may recover.” 22 Hezekiah also had said, “What is the sign that I shall go up to the house of the Lord?”

39:1 At that time Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent envoys with letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. 2 And Hezekiah welcomed them gladly. And he showed them his treasure house, the silver, the gold, the spices, the precious oil, his whole armory, all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his house or in all his realm that Hezekiah did not show them. 3 Then Isaiah the prophet came to King Hezekiah, and said to him, “What did these men say? And from where did they come to you?” Hezekiah said, “They have come to me from a far country, from Babylon.” 4 He said, “What have they seen in your house?” Hezekiah answered, “They have seen all that is in my house. There is nothing in my storehouses that I did not show them.”

5 Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Hear the word of the Lord of hosts: 6 Behold, the days are coming, when all that is in your house, and that which your fathers have stored up till this day, shall be carried to Babylon. Nothing shall be left, says the Lord. 7 And some of your own sons, who will come from you, whom you will father, shall be taken away, and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.” 8 Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “The word of the Lord that you have spoken is good.” For he thought, “There will be peace and security in my days.”

Sermon OutlineAre you trusting God?

Trusting God in Adversity
38:2-3 “‘please… remember… wept bitterly”
38:10 “in the middle of my days I must depart”, v11 “I shall not see the Lord in the land of the living”, v15 “bitterness of my soul”
38:17 “…in love you have delivered my life”
Trusting God in Prosperity
39:2 “Hezekiah welcomed them gladly … there was nothing that Hezekiah did not show them…”
39:6 “all that is in your house… shall be carried away to Babylon.”
Trusting God in History
38:5-7 “the God of David your father… deliver you and this city… this shall be a sign”
38:17 “in love you have delivered my life from the pit of destruction for you have cast all my sins behind my back”

Prayer of ConfessionOur faithful God, we need you every hour. We confess our faith is weak. When things are difficult, our fears, resentments and suspicions keep us from humbly turning to you. In times of ease, our pride, hastiness and complacency hinder us from wisely seeking you. Our faulty faith gives rise to sinful habits and actions. In love, deliver us from the pit of destruction, and cast our sins behind us. We appeal to you in the name of Jesus, who graciously gave his life to grant us eternal life. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Do you find it easier to trust God when things are going well, or when things are difficult? Why?
Why is trust so hard? How do you struggle to trust, or where are you struggling with trust?
Why do people feel the need to understand why they are suffering?
How can you walk with God in a difficult period where you are confused, can’t make sense of why you are suffering, or understand how to get out of it? What should you do? What should you not do?
How does bringing the question “what are you showing me?” to God help us navigate confusing difficult periods?
What are ways you may neglect trusting God in periods where you feel confident or complacent? How can you be intentional to walk by faith during prosperous periods?
How can you inquire of God when making a big decision? What can you do, and how do you discern God’s leading?
What are some of the implications of the fact that God doesn’t just deliver from the brink of death, but he can deliver from death itself? How can that broaden and deepen you to trust God with the whole of your life?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 36:1-37:7 (ESV)36:1 In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah, Sennacherib king of Assyria came up against all the fortified cities of Judah and took them. 2 And the king of Assyria sent the Rabshakeh from Lachish to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem, with a great army. And he stood by the conduit of the upper pool on the highway to the Washer's Field. 3 And there came out to him Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, and Shebna the secretary, and Joah the son of Asaph, the recorder.

4 And the Rabshakeh said to them, “Say to Hezekiah, ‘Thus says the great king, the king of Assyria: On what do you rest this trust of yours? 5 Do you think that mere words are strategy and power for war? In whom do you now trust, that you have rebelled against me? 6 Behold, you are trusting in Egypt, that broken reed of a staff, which will pierce the hand of any man who leans on it. Such is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all who trust in him. 7 But if you say to me, “We trust in the Lord our God,” is it not he whose high places and altars Hezekiah has removed, saying to Judah and to Jerusalem, “You shall worship before this altar”? 8 Come now, make a wager with my master the king of Assyria: I will give you two thousand horses, if you are able on your part to set riders on them. 9 How then can you repulse a single captain among the least of my master's servants, when you trust in Egypt for chariots and for horsemen? 10 Moreover, is it without the Lord that I have come up against this land to destroy it? The Lord said to me, “Go up against this land and destroy it.”’”

11 Then Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah said to the Rabshakeh, “Please speak to your servants in Aramaic, for we understand it. Do not speak to us in the language of Judah within the hearing of the people who are on the wall.” 12 But the Rabshakeh said, “Has my master sent me to speak these words to your master and to you, and not to the men sitting on the wall, who are doomed with you to eat their own dung and drink their own urine?”

13 Then the Rabshakeh stood and called out in a loud voice in the language of Judah: “Hear the words of the great king, the king of Assyria! 14 Thus says the king: ‘Do not let Hezekiah deceive you, for he will not be able to deliver you. 15 Do not let Hezekiah make you trust in the Lord by saying, “The Lord will surely deliver us. This city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria.” 16 Do not listen to Hezekiah. For thus says the king of Assyria: Make your peace with me and come out to me. Then each one of you will eat of his own vine, and each one of his own fig tree, and each one of you will drink the water of his own cistern, 17 until I come and take you away to a land like your own land, a land of grain and wine, a land of bread and vineyards. 18 Beware lest Hezekiah mislead you by saying, “The Lord will deliver us.” Has any of the gods of the nations delivered his land out of the hand of the king of Assyria? 19 Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim? Have they delivered Samaria out of my hand? 20 Who among all the gods of these lands have delivered their lands out of my hand, that the Lord should deliver Jerusalem out of my hand?’”

21 But they were silent and answered him not a word, for the king's command was, “Do not answer him.” 22 Then Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, and Shebna the secretary, and Joah the son of Asaph, the recorder, came to Hezekiah with their clothes torn, and told him the words of the Rabshakeh.

37:1 As soon as King Hezekiah heard it, he tore his clothes and covered himself with sackcloth and went into the house of the Lord. 2 And he sent Eliakim, who was over the household, and Shebna the secretary, and the senior priests, covered with sackcloth, to the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz. 3 They said to him, “Thus says Hezekiah, ‘This day is a day of distress, of rebuke, and of disgrace; children have come to the point of birth, and there is no strength to bring them forth. 4 It may be that the Lord your God will hear the words of the Rabshakeh, whom his master the king of Assyria has sent to mock the living God, and will rebuke the words that the Lord your God has heard; therefore lift up your prayer for the remnant that is left.’”

5 When the servants of King Hezekiah came to Isaiah, 6 Isaiah said to them, “Say to your master, ‘Thus says the Lord: Do not be afraid because of the words that you have heard, with which the young men of the king of Assyria have reviled me. 7 Behold, I will put a spirit in him, so that he shall hear a rumor and return to his own land, and I will make him fall by the sword in his own land.’”

Sermon OutlineAt the heart of many our deepest question lies this one: can we trust God? Scripture repeatedly affirms we can and we must.

Can you trust God?
36:8 “come… make a wager… I will give you…”
36:6 “you are trusting Egypt, that broken staff”
36:7 “is it not he whose high places and altars Hezekiah has removed?”, v10 “the Lord said to me…”
36:20 “who among all the gods of these lands have delivered their lands…?”
How you can trust God
37:1 “he tore his clothes… sackcloth… went into the house of the Lord” v4 “lift up your prayers”
37: 2 “he sent to… Isaiah”
37:4 “the Lord… will hear the words… mock the living God”
Why you can trust God
36:5 “do you think that mere words….?”, v13 “called out… hear the words of the great king…”
37:6 “thus says the Lord: do not be afraid…”
37:7 “he shall hear a rumor… I will make him fall by the sword”

Prayer of ConfessionOur good and trustworthy Father, we humble ourselves in your presence. We confess that we have been fearful when we should have trusted, skeptical when we should have believed, selfish when we should have loved, and arrogant when we should have been humble. Forgive us for relying on ourselves rather than on You, for placing our trust in people, ideas, institutions, and the fleeting things of this world. We acknowledge that we have done what we ought not to have done, and left undone what we ought to have done. Have mercy on us and forgive our sins. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, now and forever. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Where do you struggle to trust God? What do you easily trust God for or about? What areas are hard?
Should we ask the question “can I trust God?” How do we be thinking people but not let go of a foundation that should be assumed?
Is there anything you can point to that makes it hard for you to trust God? What does it look like to work that out with God (instead of thinking about God, to walk with God in prayer and faithfulness)?
What should we be looking for to spot deception? What are some patterns or techniques enemies use?
How can you trust God? What do you do? Think of a situation (a decision, a challenge, a stressor, a temptation) you may face this week – how can you trust God in it?
Why is God trustworthy? What about God’s character or actions do you find most compelling?
When the question arises “can I trust God?”, how does trust in Jesus focus and clarify how to answer the question?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 35:1-10 (ESV)1 The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad;
the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus;
2 it shall blossom abundantly
and rejoice with joy and singing.
The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it,
the majesty of Carmel and Sharon.
They shall see the glory of the Lord,
the majesty of our God.

3 Strengthen the weak hands,
and make firm the feeble knees.
4 Say to those who have an anxious heart,
“Be strong; fear not!
Behold, your God
will come with vengeance,
with the recompense of God.
He will come and save you.”

5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened,
and the ears of the deaf unstopped;
6 then shall the lame man leap like a deer,
and the tongue of the mute sing for joy.
For waters break forth in the wilderness,
and streams in the desert;
7 the burning sand shall become a pool,
and the thirsty ground springs of water;
in the haunt of jackals, where they lie down,
the grass shall become reeds and rushes.

8 And a highway shall be there,
and it shall be called the Way of Holiness;
the unclean shall not pass over it.
It shall belong to those who walk on the way;
even if they are fools, they shall not go astray.
9 No lion shall be there,
nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it;
they shall not be found there,
but the redeemed shall walk there.
10 And the ransomed of the Lord shall return
and come to Zion with singing;
everlasting joy shall be upon their heads;
they shall obtain gladness and joy,
and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

Sermon OutlineWalk through life with a steadfast hope—one that strengthens you in difficulty and enriches your life with lasting goodness.

A Message
vv3-4 “Strengthen… make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who have an anxious heart, “Be strong; fear not!”
v1 “The wilderness… dry land… desert”, v7 “burning sand… thirsty ground… haunt of jackals”, vv8-9 “lion… ravenous beasts”
A Redeemer
v4 “Behold, your God… will come and save you.”
vv5-7 “the eyes of the blind shall be opened… the ears of the deaf… the lame man… tongue of the mute… the burning sand shall become a pool”
vv9-10 “the redeemed shall walk there. And the ransomed of the Lord shall return”
v2 “They shall see the glory of the Lord…”
A Highway
v8 “a highway shall be there.. the Way of Holiness
v10 “the ransomed of the Lord shall return… with singing; everlasting joy… they shall obtain… joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.”

Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious Redeemer, you have made a way out of sin and death. Apart from you we are utterly stuck and helpless. We confess that despite all you have done and revealed, we still give in to temptation. We confess corrupt desires. We confess dishonorable actions. We admit we fail to meet your standard of holiness. We wander from you, choosing the very paths you have warned us against. Forgive all our sins. Give life to our dry souls. Fill us afresh with your Holy Spirit. Strengthen our weak hands and steady our anxious hearts. We thank you for your boundless mercy, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How does hope provide strength when you face difficulties? How is hope different from optimism?
What things do you tend to hope in when you feel weak or anxious?
Why do people need a redeemer? What is redemption, and how does Jesus redeem his people?
How is the Christian life a “path” to walk?
What is good, exciting, and satisfying about the Christian way of life? What is hard?
What does it mean to live a life of holiness?
How does a future filled with joy and absent of sorrow help you face hardships in the present?
What can we do when you have periods of spiritual dryness?
How can you start to experience more of the joy of walking with God? What would help you come alive?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 30:1-18 (ESV)1 “Ah, stubborn children,” declares the Lord,
“who carry out a plan, but not mine,
and who make an alliance, but not of my Spirit,
that they may add sin to sin;
2 who set out to go down to Egypt,
without asking for my direction,
to take refuge in the protection of Pharaoh
and to seek shelter in the shadow of Egypt!
3 Therefore shall the protection of Pharaoh turn to your shame,
and the shelter in the shadow of Egypt to your humiliation.
4 For though his officials are at Zoan
and his envoys reach Hanes,
5 everyone comes to shame
through a people that cannot profit them,
that brings neither help nor profit,
but shame and disgrace.”

6 An oracle on the beasts of the Negeb.

Through a land of trouble and anguish,
from where come the lioness and the lion,
the adder and the flying fiery serpent,
they carry their riches on the backs of donkeys,
and their treasures on the humps of camels,
to a people that cannot profit them.
7 Egypt's help is worthless and empty;
therefore I have called her
“Rahab who sits still.”

8 And now, go, write it before them on a tablet
and inscribe it in a book,
that it may be for the time to come
as a witness forever.
9 For they are a rebellious people,
lying children,
children unwilling to hear
the instruction of the Lord;
10 who say to the seers, “Do not see,”
and to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us what is right;
speak to us smooth things,
prophesy illusions,
11 leave the way, turn aside from the path,
let us hear no more about the Holy One of Israel.”
12 Therefore thus says the Holy One of Israel,
“Because you despise this word
and trust in oppression and perverseness
and rely on them,
13 therefore this iniquity shall be to you
like a breach in a high wall, bulging out and about to collapse,
whose breaking comes suddenly, in an instant;
14 and its breaking is like that of a potter's vessel
that is smashed so ruthlessly
that among its fragments not a shard is found
with which to take fire from the hearth,
or to dip up water out of the cistern.”

15 For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel,
“In returning and rest you shall be saved;
in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.”
But you were unwilling, 16 and you said,
“No! We will flee upon horses”;
therefore you shall flee away;
and, “We will ride upon swift steeds”;
therefore your pursuers shall be swift.
17 A thousand shall flee at the threat of one;
at the threat of five you shall flee,
till you are left
like a flagstaff on the top of a mountain,
like a signal on a hill.

18 Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you,
and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you.
For the Lord is a God of justice;
blessed are all those who wait for him.

Sermon Outline

The stubbornness of misplaced trust (v. 1-2, 9-11, 7)
v. 1-2: “Ah, stubborn children,” declares the LORD, “who carry out a plan, but not mine, and who make an alliance, but not of my Spirit, that they may add sin to sin; who set out to go down to Egypt, without asking for my direction, to take refuge in the protection of Pharaoh and to seek shelter in the shadow of Egypt!
v. 9-11: For they are a rebellious people, lying children, children unwilling to hear the instruction of the LORD; who say to the seers, “Do not see,” and to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us what is right; speak to us smooth things, prophesy illusions, leave the way, turn aside from the path, let us hear no more about the Holy One of Israel.”
v. 7: Egypt’s help is worthless and empty; therefore I have called her “Rahab who sits still.”
The costliness of misplaced trust (v. 6, 3, 12-14, 16, 15)
v. 6: An oracle on the beasts of the Negeb. Through a land of trouble and anguish, from where come the lioness and the lion, the adder and the flying fiery serpent, they carry their riches on the backs of donkeys, and their treasures on the humps of camels, to a people that cannot profit them.
v. 3: Therefore shall the protection of Pharaoh turn to your shame, and the shelter in the shadow of Egypt to your humiliation.
v. 12-14: Therefore thus says the Holy One of Israel, “Because you despise this word and trust in oppression and perverseness and rely on them, therefore this iniquity shall be to you like a breach in a high wall, bulging out and about to collapse, whose breaking comes suddenly, in an instant; and its breaking is like that of a potter’s vessel that is smashed so ruthlessly that among its fragments not a shard is found with which to take fire from the hearth, or to dip up water out of the cistern.”
v. 15: For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.” But you were unwilling.
An invitation to trust in God again (v. )
v. 1: “Ah, stubborn children,” declares the LORD,
v. 9: For they are a rebellious people, lying children, children unwilling to hear the instruction of the LORD.
v. 18: Therefore the LORD waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the LORD is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him.

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, you invite us to completely trust in you, but we often misplace our trust. We do not see you as trustworthy, and so we look to other things and people to trust in. We struggle with stubbornness, believing that what we do is right and best. We pay with our time, energy, resources, and affections. But you patiently wait for us to return. And when we return, you are always there to receive us. May we turn to you, run to you, and find our rest in you. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
What helps you to trust in God? What makes it difficult to trust in God?
In what ways do you struggle with stubbornness? What do you think is at the core of this struggle for you?
Are there people in your life that you trust who will speak hard but necessary truth to you? When has this happened?
Where do you place your trust in that is not God? In what ways have you “made payment” to the thing or person that you trust in?
In what setting have you essentially prayed to God, “thy will be done”? Are there certain areas of your life that you sense God calling you to pray this prayer to him?
As you imagine God waiting for you to return (whether from besetting sin, or an unwise decision, or something else), what does that picture do for your heart and soul? Do you trust that he is waiting and ready to receive you?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 29:9-24 (ESV)9 Astonish yourselves and be astonished;
blind yourselves and be blind!
Be drunk, but not with wine;
stagger, but not with strong drink!
10 For the Lord has poured out upon you
a spirit of deep sleep,
and has closed your eyes (the prophets),
and covered your heads (the seers).

11 And the vision of all this has become to you like the words of a book that is sealed. When men give it to one who can read, saying, “Read this,” he says, “I cannot, for it is sealed.” 12 And when they give the book to one who cannot read, saying, “Read this,” he says, “I cannot read.”

13 And the Lord said:
“Because this people draw near with their mouth
and honor me with their lips,
while their hearts are far from me,
and their fear of me is a commandment taught by men,
14 therefore, behold, I will again
do wonderful things with this people,
with wonder upon wonder;
and the wisdom of their wise men shall perish,
and the discernment of their discerning men shall be hidden.”

15 Ah, you who hide deep from the Lord your counsel,
whose deeds are in the dark,
and who say, “Who sees us? Who knows us?”
16 You turn things upside down!
Shall the potter be regarded as the clay,
that the thing made should say of its maker,
“He did not make me”;
or the thing formed say of him who formed it,
“He has no understanding”?

17 Is it not yet a very little while
until Lebanon shall be turned into a fruitful field,
and the fruitful field shall be regarded as a forest?
18 In that day the deaf shall hear
the words of a book,
and out of their gloom and darkness
the eyes of the blind shall see.
19 The meek shall obtain fresh joy in the Lord,
and the poor among mankind shall exult in the Holy One of Israel.
20 For the ruthless shall come to nothing
and the scoffer cease,
and all who watch to do evil shall be cut off,
21 who by a word make a man out to be an offender,
and lay a snare for him who reproves in the gate,
and with an empty plea turn aside him who is in the right.

22 Therefore thus says the Lord, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob:

“Jacob shall no more be ashamed,
no more shall his face grow pale.
23 For when he sees his children,
the work of my hands, in his midst,
they will sanctify my name;
they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob
and will stand in awe of the God of Israel.
24 And those who go astray in spirit will come to understanding,
and those who murmur will accept instruction.”

Sermon Outline

The inner threat of indifference (v. 9-12)
v. 9-10: Astonish yourselves and be astonished; blind yourselves and be blind! Be drunk, but not with wine; stagger, but not with strong drink! For the LORD has poured out upon you a spirit of deep sleep, and has closed your eyes (the prophets), and covered your heads (the seers).
v. 11-12: 11: And the vision of all this has become to you like the words of a book that is sealed. When men give it to one who can read, saying, “Read this,” he says, “I cannot, for it is sealed.” And when they give the book to one who cannot read, saying, “Read this,” he says, “I cannot read.”
The inner threat of pride (v. 13, 15-16)
v. 16: You turn things upside down! Shall the potter be regarded as the clay, that the thing made should say of its maker, “He did not make me”; or the thing formed say of him who formed it, “He has no understanding”?
v. 13: And the Lord said: “Because this people draw near with their mouth and honor me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me, and their fear of me is a commandment taught by men.
v. 15: Ah, you who hide deep from the LORD your counsel, whose deeds are in the dark, and who say, “Who sees us? Who knows us?”
The rescue we need from the outside (v. 14, 17-24)
v. 14: Therefore, behold, I will again do wonderful things with this people, with wonder upon wonder.
v. 22-23: Therefore thus says the LORD, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: “Jacob shall no more be ashamed, no more shall his face grow pale. For when he sees his children, the work of my hands, in his midst, they will sanctify my name; they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob and will stand in awe of the God of Israel.

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, there are real threats all around us, but we fail to admit that we ourselves are a threat. We struggle with indifference and do not marvel at how wonderful you are. We struggle with pride and make too much of ourselves. Instead of seeing people for their innate worth, we strip them of their dignity and see them as objects. We look to you as a means for our personal gain. But how amazing is your grace that you rescue us when we do not deserve it, and you extend mercy even though we deserve judgment. May your grace and patience towards us transform our hearts and minds to be more like Jesus. We pray this in his name. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Have you felt indifference towards God? How did that affect your life at the time?
How do you see indifference as a threat?
In what ways do you struggle with pride? How does that affect your relationships with other people?
How have you looked to God to get things from him more so than worshiping him?
Of all the things that God has given us that we do not deserve, what resonates the most for you at this time? His kindness, his patience, his rescue, his compassion, etc? Meditate on this and allow your heart to be moved to worship.
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 25:1-12 (ESV)1 O Lord, you are my God;
I will exalt you; I will praise your name,
for you have done wonderful things,
plans formed of old, faithful and sure.
2 For you have made the city a heap,
the fortified city a ruin;
the foreigners' palace is a city no more;
it will never be rebuilt.
3 Therefore strong peoples will glorify you;
cities of ruthless nations will fear you.
4 For you have been a stronghold to the poor,
a stronghold to the needy in his distress,
a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat;
for the breath of the ruthless is like a storm against a wall,
5 like heat in a dry place.
You subdue the noise of the foreigners;
as heat by the shade of a cloud,
so the song of the ruthless is put down.

6 On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples
a feast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wine,
of rich food full of marrow, of aged wine well refined.
7 And he will swallow up on this mountain
the covering that is cast over all peoples,
the veil that is spread over all nations.
8 He will swallow up death forever;
and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces,
and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth,
for the Lord has spoken.
9 It will be said on that day,
“Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us.
This is the Lord; we have waited for him;
let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.”
10 For the hand of the Lord will rest on this mountain,
and Moab shall be trampled down in his place,
as straw is trampled down in a dunghill.
11 And he will spread out his hands in the midst of it
as a swimmer spreads his hands out to swim,
but the Lord will lay low his pompous pride together with the skill of his hands.
12 And the high fortifications of his walls he will bring down,
lay low, and cast to the ground, to the dust.

Sermon OutlineHow do we live when the veil of death (v7) produces ignorance and confusion?

Humbly
v11 “the Lord will lay low his pompous pride together with the skill of his hands”
v3 “cities of ruthless nations” (vv4-5)
Faithfully
v6 “…the Lord of hosts will make… a feast of rich food…”
v7-8 “he will swallow up on this mountain the covering… death forever…will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach… he will take away”
v1 “for you have done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure”
Wisely
v9 “It will be said… ‘this is our God; we have waited for him… let us be glad…”
v1 “O Lord, you are my God… I will praise your name, for you have done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure.”
v5 “You subdue the noise…”

Prayer of ConfessionO Lord, we have been confused and fearful. We are guilty of pride and ruthlessness. We admit we have sinned. We have failed to know and trust you. We have followed the course of the world, causing harm and shame. We are guilty in our actions and in our secret thoughts. Take away the reproach and free us from sin and death. Your word, your plan, your purposes are trustworthy. We rejoice that you are so merciful to us. We wait on you, trusting in the grace you have shown us through Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What can we know about death? What can’t we know?
How does mortality affect you? What are implications of your view of what happens after we die?
Why are people so prone to pride? What draws us towards pride, associating with the proud, and having buy-in on the values or ways of those who are proud?
Why does pride move in the trajectory towards ruthlessness?
What impact does pride have on how we view and understand God?
What are some things we can learn from God “swallowing up death”?
How does understanding God’s plans help make sense of life? While we don’t know all the details of our particular lives, how does knowing the framework help you navigate the present?
What has God shown us that gives us cause to rejoice and have hope? How do we sustain hope in a world that has so much that is terrible in it?
Is the Christian life worth living? Is it wise, good, worthy of our devotion? Why or why not?
What are some outcomes of a life faithfully lived with Christ, according to his ways?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 20:1-6 (ESV)1 In the year that the commander in chief, who was sent by Sargon the king of Assyria, came to Ashdod and fought against it and captured it— 2 at that time the Lord spoke by Isaiah the son of Amoz, saying, “Go, and loose the sackcloth from your waist and take off your sandals from your feet,” and he did so, walking naked and barefoot.

3 Then the Lord said, “As my servant Isaiah has walked naked and barefoot for three years as a sign and a portent against Egypt and Cush, 4 so shall the king of Assyria lead away the Egyptian captives and the Cushite exiles, both the young and the old, naked and barefoot, with buttocks uncovered, the nakedness of Egypt. 5 Then they shall be dismayed and ashamed because of Cush their hope and of Egypt their boast. 6 And the inhabitants of this coastland will say in that day, ‘Behold, this is what has happened to those in whom we hoped and to whom we fled for help to be delivered from the king of Assyria! And we, how shall we escape?’”

Sermon OutlineAs we step into this new year, let’s ground our hope in something lasting and true, avoiding the disappointment that often comes from trusting in things that fade or fail.

Misplaced Hope
vv1-2 “In the year…at that time the Lord spoke by Isaiah…”
v6 “Behold, this is what has happened to those in whom we hoped and to whom we fled for help to be delivered from the king of Assyria!”
Dismay and Shame
vv3-5 “…so shall the king of Assyria lead away the Egyptian captives and the Cushite exiles… they shall be dismayed and ashamed…”
The Servant Who Is a Sign
v3 “my servant Isaiah has walked naked and barefoot for three years as a sign”

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and merciful God, we humbly confess that we have sinned against You in thought, word, and deed. We have sought life, security, and salvation in things that cannot satisfy, and we have trusted in our own strength rather than in Your unfailing love. Our hearts have strayed, and our affections have been divided. Forgive us for our misplaced hopes and the ways we have turned from You. Purify us, O Lord, and renew us by Your Spirit. Clothe us in the righteousness of Christ, that we may live faithfully and reflect Your grace to the world. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

As you enter 2025, have you made any resolutions? Why or why not? What are your hopes for this year, and where does your hope ultimately rest?
Why is it risky to place our deepest hopes in people, possessions, goals, or ideologies? How might this shape our lives and expectations?
Can you recall a time when you placed your hope in something that ultimately failed? How did that experience affect you—emotionally, spiritually, or mentally? What lessons did you take away from it?
Isaiah was called to walk “naked” for three years as a prophetic sign. How does this strike you? If you lived during his time, how might this affect your ability to trust his message? Would it clarify or complicate things for you?
When you feel afraid, where do you instinctively turn for comfort, guidance, or distraction? Who or what consistently gives you hope during difficult times?
How can Christians faithfully live “in the world but not of the world”? How do we avoid being consumed by worldly pursuits, while also resisting an escapist faith that disconnects from real life?
The Bible presents Jesus as the only secure foundation for our hope. What do you find compelling about trusting in Him? In what areas do you find it challenging to place your trust fully in Christ?
How can you begin to shift your hope from temporary things to Christ? What practical steps can you take to realign your thoughts, habits, and commitments with Him?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 14:1-23 (ESV)1 For the Lord will have compassion on Jacob and will again choose Israel, and will set them in their own land, and sojourners will join them and will attach themselves to the house of Jacob. 2 And the peoples will take them and bring them to their place, and the house of Israel will possess them in the Lord's land as male and female slaves. They will take captive those who were their captors, and rule over those who oppressed them.

3 When the Lord has given you rest from your pain and turmoil and the hard service with which you were made to serve, 4 you will take up this taunt against the king of Babylon:

“How the oppressor has ceased,
the insolent fury ceased!
5 The Lord has broken the staff of the wicked,
the scepter of rulers,
6 that struck the peoples in wrath
with unceasing blows,
that ruled the nations in anger
with unrelenting persecution.
7 The whole earth is at rest and quiet;
they break forth into singing.
8 The cypresses rejoice at you,
the cedars of Lebanon, saying,
‘Since you were laid low,
no woodcutter comes up against us.’
9 Sheol beneath is stirred up
to meet you when you come;
it rouses the shades to greet you,
all who were leaders of the earth;
it raises from their thrones
all who were kings of the nations.
10 All of them will answer
and say to you:
‘You too have become as weak as we!
You have become like us!’
11 Your pomp is brought down to Sheol,
the sound of your harps;
maggots are laid as a bed beneath you,
and worms are your covers.

12 “How you are fallen from heaven,
O Day Star, son of Dawn!
How you are cut down to the ground,
you who laid the nations low!
13 You said in your heart,
‘I will ascend to heaven;
above the stars of God
I will set my throne on high;
I will sit on the mount of assembly
in the far reaches of the north;
14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds;
I will make myself like the Most High.’
15 But you are brought down to Sheol,
to the far reaches of the pit.
16 Those who see you will stare at you
and ponder over you:
‘Is this the man who made the earth tremble,
who shook kingdoms,
17 who made the world like a desert
and overthrew its cities,
who did not let his prisoners go home?’
18 All the kings of the nations lie in glory,
each in his own tomb;
19 but you are cast out, away from your grave,
like a loathed branch,
clothed with the slain, those pierced by the sword,
who go down to the stones of the pit,
like a dead body trampled underfoot.
20 You will not be joined with them in burial,
because you have destroyed your land,
you have slain your people.

“May the offspring of evildoers
nevermore be named!
21 Prepare slaughter for his sons
because of the guilt of their fathers,
lest they rise and possess the earth,
and fill the face of the world with cities.”

22 “I will rise up against them,” declares the Lord of hosts, “and will cut off from Babylon name and remnant, descendants and posterity,” declares the Lord. 23 “And I will make it a possession of the hedgehog, and pools of water, and I will sweep it with the broom of destruction,” declares the Lord of hosts.

Sermon Outline

Remembering Past Promises (v. 1-2)
Confronting the Present Reality (v. 3-21)
Holding onto a Future Certainty (v. 22-23)

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, the darkness of the world looms overs us. We fail to remember your promises from of old. We are prone to trust the powers of the world instead of yours. We struggle with despair and sometimes believe that hoping is in vain. But you are the sovereign and compassionate God who has made good on your promise by sending Jesus to be our salvation. May we trust in his finished work that gives us an enduring hope. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Why do you think it was difficult for the Israelites to remember God’s promises? Why do you find it difficult to remember God’s promises?
How does the prophesied downfall of Babylon in Isaiah 14 illustrate the limits of worldly power?
Discuss the tension between confronting the present reality with all of its struggles along with God’s sovereignty.
Describes the differences between how Babylon shows power and how Jesus shows power.
In what ways do you need to hold onto the future certainty secured for us by Jesus?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 11:1-10 (ESV)1 There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse,
and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.
2 And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him,
the Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
the Spirit of counsel and might,
the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.
3 And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord.
He shall not judge by what his eyes see,
or decide disputes by what his ears hear,
4 but with righteousness he shall judge the poor,
and decide with equity for the meek of the earth;
and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth,
and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked.
5 Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist,
and faithfulness the belt of his loins.

6 The wolf shall dwell with the lamb,
and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat,
and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together;
and a little child shall lead them.
7 The cow and the bear shall graze;
their young shall lie down together;
and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.
8 The nursing child shall play over the hole of the cobra,
and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder's den.
9 They shall not hurt or destroy
in all my holy mountain;
for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord
as the waters cover the sea.

10 In that day the root of Jesse, who shall stand as a signal for the peoples—of him shall the nations inquire, and his resting place shall be glorious.

Sermon OutlineIn a hope destroying world, what can we know that will lead to wise living?

Foolish Humanity
v3 “And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. He shall not judge by what his eyes see…”
The Wise Human
v2 “the Spirit of the Lord… of wisdom…”
v5 “righteousness… faithfulness the belt…”
Humankind Called to Wisdom
v10 “the root of Jesse… a signal… the nations inquire” (v1 “stump of Jesse”)
v8 “the nursing child shall play over the hole of the cobra”
v2 “the Spirit of knowledge”, v9 “the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord”

Prayer of ConfessionOur wise and faithful God, forgive us for our foolishness. We have all sinned. We have looked with our eyes, desired in our hearts, and done what we know we should not. We have been unrighteous and unfaithful. Through Jesus, the only righteous and faithful one, we ask that you forgive all our sins. Cleanse us from all unrighteousness and fill us with the Spirit of wisdom. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Does the Christmas story feel like a fantasy? What are the important elements of the story? What is true and helpful? Differentiate the story as the Bible tells it and as our culture celebrates it.
How are people foolish? What patterns are true of all of us? What are some ways we are we fooled?
What evidence in our world displays how foolish humanity is?
How was Jesus wise? What about his life or teachings show that he lived how people should live? What in his teaches helps people to have deeper discernment?
How does Jesus image God? What can we see of God when we look at Jesus?
Why is the birth of Jesus significant? In what ways is his arrival a signal to all people?
How does following Jesus make a person wise?
What does it mean to “know God”? Why does wisdom require more than facts and information?
How does delighting in reverence for God produce wisdom in us? How does it protect us? What sources of delight typically rank higher in your life?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon InfoSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Lessons & Carols

On the following passages from Luke's Gospel Luke 1:26-38
Luke 1:46-55
Luke 2:1-21

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 9:1-7 (ESV)1 But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations.

2 The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness,
on them has light shone.
3 You have multiplied the nation;
you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you
as with joy at the harvest,
as they are glad when they divide the spoil.
4 For the yoke of his burden,
and the staff for his shoulder,
the rod of his oppressor,
you have broken as on the day of Midian.
5 For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult
and every garment rolled in blood
will be burned as fuel for the fire.
6 For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
and his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and of peace
there will be no end,
on the throne of David and over his kingdom,
to establish it and to uphold it
with justice and with righteousness
from this time forth and forevermore.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

Sermon OutlineIsaiah looks ahead to the one God sends into the world to turn all things around and begin the healing of the world.

The Way of Our World
v2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light
vv4-5 …yoke of his burden… staff… rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian… boot of the tramping warrior… garment rolled in blood…
8:11-13,17-19, 21-22 conspiracy/fear, inquiry, rage
The Way of the Lord
v1 but in the latter time…
v6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… the government shall be upon his shoulder
v7 to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness
The Way of the Lord in the World
v7 to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness
v6 his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace
v7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end… the Lord of hosts will do this

Prayer of ConfessionWonderful counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace: you have established justice and righteousness. We all fall short of your standard of righteousness. We confess our unjust thoughts and actions. We have neglected what is good. We have taken hold of what is evil. Instead of advancing your peace, we have helped multiply the sin of our world. Forgive us. We take hold of the mercy granted us in Christ, and claim his righteousness. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways is our world unhealthy? What symptoms do you see that indicate something is wrong?
What examples do you see in public discourse of how people are relating and addressing issues that is making things worse?
Do you discern God at work anywhere within our world now? Do you see any evidence of God sustaining or advancing good?
What are some ways that Jesus’ entry into the world begins to address our world problems? What do Christians believe about the “incarnation” (the Son of God becoming human) that points to unique ways God is repairing the world?
How does Jesus deal with sin in a way that no other person can?
How does Jesus establish righteousness and justice? How does he uphold them?
How are followers of Jesus to uphold righteousness and justice?
What reasonable expectations should you have for going into the world to do good?
What will you need to stay firm in doing good?
What does it look like for God to be at work in the world through you?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 7:1-17 (ESV)1 In the days of Ahaz the son of Jotham, son of Uzziah, king of Judah, Rezin the king of Syria and Pekah the son of Remaliah the king of Israel came up to Jerusalem to wage war against it, but could not yet mount an attack against it. 2 When the house of David was told, “Syria is in league with Ephraim,” the heart of Ahaz and the heart of his people shook as the trees of the forest shake before the wind.

3 And the Lord said to Isaiah, “Go out to meet Ahaz, you and Shear-jashub your son, at the end of the conduit of the upper pool on the highway to the Washer's Field. 4 And say to him, ‘Be careful, be quiet, do not fear, and do not let your heart be faint because of these two smoldering stumps of firebrands, at the fierce anger of Rezin and Syria and the son of Remaliah. 5 Because Syria, with Ephraim and the son of Remaliah, has devised evil against you, saying, 6 “Let us go up against Judah and terrify it, and let us conquer it for ourselves, and set up the son of Tabeel as king in the midst of it,” 7 thus says the Lord God:

“‘It shall not stand,
and it shall not come to pass.
8 For the head of Syria is Damascus,
and the head of Damascus is Rezin.
And within sixty-five years
Ephraim will be shattered from being a people.
9 And the head of Ephraim is Samaria,
and the head of Samaria is the son of Remaliah.
If you are not firm in faith,
you will not be firm at all.’”

10 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz: 11 “Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.” 12 But Ahaz said, “I will not ask, and I will not put the Lord to the test.” 13 And he said, “Hear then, O house of David! Is it too little for you to weary men, that you weary my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. 15 He shall eat curds and honey when he knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good. 16 For before the boy knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good, the land whose two kings you dread will be deserted. 17 The Lord will bring upon you and upon your people and upon your father's house such days as have not come since the day that Ephraim departed from Judah—the king of Assyria!”

Sermon Outline

Faith can be challenged (v. 1-2)
An invitation to have faith (v. 3-9)
Faith that can endure (v. 10-17)

Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, you invite us to have faith in you, but it is not easy. Instead of trusting in you, we take matters into our own hands. We often care more about what you can do for us rather than who you are. Help us to see your invitations to have faith in you. You are a God who not only makes promises, but you fulfill them. May we trust that you are Immanuel; God with us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Can you recall a time when your faith in God was tested? How did you respond in that time?
How do your struggles shape the way you see God? Have there been times of learning, growth, or wavering?
Have there been challenging moments that drew you closer to God? What did you learn about God through those experiences?
One of the names of God is Immanuel: God with us. Do you resonate with this? In what ways does this comfort you?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 6:1-13 (ESV)1 In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. 3 And one called to another and said:

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts;
the whole earth is full of his glory!”

4 And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke. 5 And I said: “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!”

6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a burning coal that he had taken with tongs from the altar. 7 And he touched my mouth and said: “Behold, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for.”

8 And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” 9 And he said, “Go, and say to this people:

“‘Keep on hearing, but do not understand;
keep on seeing, but do not perceive.’
10 Make the heart of this people dull,
and their ears heavy,
and blind their eyes;
lest they see with their eyes,
and hear with their ears,
and understand with their hearts,
and turn and be healed.”
11 Then I said, “How long, O Lord?”
And he said:
“Until cities lie waste
without inhabitant,
and houses without people,
and the land is a desolate waste,
12 and the Lord removes people far away,
and the forsaken places are many in the midst of the land.
13 And though a tenth remain in it,
it will be burned again,
like a terebinth or an oak,
whose stump remains
when it is felled.”
The holy seed is its stump.

Sermon OutlineGod has made a way for us to turn to him and be healed.

Terrified
v1 “I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne”
v3 said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts”
v4 “the foundations of the thresholds shook… the house was filled with smoke”
v5 “And I said: ‘Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips’”
Purified
v2 “Above him stood the seraphim”
vv6-7 “a burning coal that he had taken with tongs from the altar. And he touched my mouth…”
v10 “lest they… turn and be healed”
Magnified
v8 “who will go for us?”
v13 “The holy seed is its stump”
v7 “your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for”
v3 “the whole earth is full of his glory!”

Prayer of ConfessionOur holy God, we are by nature an unclean people. There is sin deep within us too painful to acknowledge. There are many ways our hearts are hardened to you. We admit impure thoughts and actions. We would be lost apart from your mercy. Forgive us. We thank you that Jesus atoned for our sins to remove our guilt. We pray for the sanctifying work of the Spirit to cleanse us from sin and produce holiness in us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How do you understand the word “holy”? What does it mean? Do you find holiness attractive and desirable?
What are your fears about God?
What insecurities do you have that cause you to keep God at a distance? Which are keeping you from engaging more deeply with Christians?
Can God forgive without someone doing something to make things right? Why is atonement important for understanding how forgiveness is possible for us?
How does Jesus’ death on the cross remove the guilt of our sin?
Do you believe that if your faith is in Jesus God will not reject or judge you? Why?
Why is sanctification important? Why is it necessary to be cleansed from sin?
What is the role of the Holy Spirit in our sanctification? How are sinners made holy?
What expectations do you have for growth and progress in holiness? What will you need?
How does Jesus help people get through periods when they feel unworthy and hopeless?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 5:1-7 (ESV)1 Let me sing for my beloved
my love song concerning his vineyard:
My beloved had a vineyard
on a very fertile hill.
2 He dug it and cleared it of stones,
and planted it with choice vines;
he built a watchtower in the midst of it,
and hewed out a wine vat in it;
and he looked for it to yield grapes,
but it yielded wild grapes.

3 And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem
and men of Judah,
judge between me and my vineyard.
4 What more was there to do for my vineyard,
that I have not done in it?
When I looked for it to yield grapes,
why did it yield wild grapes?

5 And now I will tell you
what I will do to my vineyard.
I will remove its hedge,
and it shall be devoured;
I will break down its wall,
and it shall be trampled down.
6 I will make it a waste;
it shall not be pruned or hoed,
and briers and thorns shall grow up;
I will also command the clouds
that they rain no rain upon it.

7 For the vineyard of the Lord of hosts
is the house of Israel,
and the men of Judah
are his pleasant planting;
and he looked for justice,
but behold, bloodshed;
for righteousness,
but behold, an outcry!

Sermon OutlineLooking at ourselves from God’s perspective clarifies our need and helps us turn to God for life.

Where are you putting down roots?
v4 What more was there to do for my vineyard, that I have not done in it? (vv1-2)
What do you observe being produced?
v2 …but it yielded wild grapes
v7 he looked for justice, but behold, bloodshed; for righteousness, but behold, an outcry!
v5 now I will tell you what I will do to my vineyard
How can you change?
v1 Let me sing for my beloved

Prayer of ConfessionOur wise and patient Father, we appeal to you for mercy. We are guilty of idolatry. We have tried to get life, meaning and satisfaction in things that have produced bad fruit in our lives. We have ignored the signs of how unhealthy we are. We cannot claim to be righteous or just. Forgive every sin. We turn to you, the only source of life. Please do not hand us over to our sinful desires to reap the rotten fruit of our selfish arrogance. Nourish us with your love and grace so that the life of Christ is in us, producing fruit consistent with repentance. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How can we gain God’s perspective? How do we learn what God sees, wants, is doing, etc.?
What mistakes will we make when we judge everything based on our own experiences and personal understanding? How are we prone to misunderstanding our lives and our world? How are we prone to misunderstanding God?
What happens if we take for granted all that God has provided for us?
How do you try to find life in the world? What do you seek after, devote yourself to, or are drawn to for fulfillment?
Why do we act in ways that harm others?
Why is it so hard to change bad behaviors?
How is union with Christ a way of understanding the whole of the Christian life?
Why is it crucial to receive the love of Christ on an on-going basis? How can you remain aware of Christ’s love?
How can love for Christ shape the whole of your life?

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Isaiah Sermon Series

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 2:1-5 (ESV)1 The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem.

2 It shall come to pass in the latter days
that the mountain of the house of the Lord
shall be established as the highest of the mountains,
and shall be lifted up above the hills;
and all the nations shall flow to it,
3 and many peoples shall come, and say:
“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord,
to the house of the God of Jacob,
that he may teach us his ways
and that we may walk in his paths.”
For out of Zion shall go forth the law,
and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
4 He shall judge between the nations,
and shall decide disputes for many peoples;
and they shall beat their swords into plowshares,
and their spears into pruning hooks;
nation shall not lift up sword against nation,
neither shall they learn war anymore.

5 O house of Jacob,
come, let us walk
in the light of the Lord.

Sermon OutlineWhat is God showing us that will completely change how we live?

v1 “The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw...”
v2 “It shall come to pass in the latter days…”
Reimagining Greatness
v2 “the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established as the highest of the mountains”
Revisiting What Is Possible
v3 “For out of Zion shall go forth… the word of the Lord…”
vv2-3 “… many peoples shall come, and say: “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord… that we may walk in his paths.”
v4 “they shall beat their swords into plowshares… nation shall not lift up sword against nation...”
The End of the Path We Walk
v5 “O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord.”

Prayer of ConfessionSovereign Lord: have mercy on us. We have sinned in thought, word and deed. We have magnified insignificant things, coveting and fighting over what is of little value. We have not trusted you because we have let our imaginations define what is possible. We have grasped weapons and ways that produce death. We confess our fears, resentment, pride, greed, and every other force for destruction within us. We long for real peace. Forgive us. Light the way before us and lead us forward. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Have you ever seen a picture and thought “I want to be there?” Reflect on that experience. What did you do, what could you have done, or what should you have done?
What are the biggest, most important things in your life? What are you working towards? What will you make sacrifices for? What do you think will satisfy you if you attain it?
Why are the things Jesus talks about and directs us towards not attractive to most people (or are they)?
What promises of the Bible do you have the most trouble believing? What seems most impossible? Why do you have trouble with those things?
How can a picture of where things are headed help you make choices in the present? What in the picture Isaiah presents of future days can make a difference in what you are doing now?
Is it ever too late to get yourself on the path of God? What keeps you from going even if you have the sense that God is inviting?
Why is Jesus essential to making it possible for people to get to this place Isaiah is showing us?
Do you think this future heavenly vision will inspire greater engagement with the world for those who believe it, or less engagement? Why?
In the current climate (what is happening in the world right now) what does it look like to walk with God? What ways of Christ do we need to take hold of?
How can the light of God shine from you into the world? How can our church be more of a city on a hill?

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We encountered some technical difficulties. There are excised gaps of about a minute at 7:00 and 24:40. The full sermon is available in audio only below.

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord

Isaiah 1:1-20 (ESV)1 The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.

2 Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth;
for the Lord has spoken:
“Children have I reared and brought up,
but they have rebelled against me.
3 The ox knows its owner,
and the donkey its master's crib,
but Israel does not know,
my people do not understand.”

4 Ah, sinful nation,
a people laden with iniquity,
offspring of evildoers,
children who deal corruptly!
They have forsaken the Lord,
they have despised the Holy One of Israel,
they are utterly estranged.

5 Why will you still be struck down?
Why will you continue to rebel?
The whole head is sick,
and the whole heart faint.
6 From the sole of the foot even to the head,
there is no soundness in it,
but bruises and sores
and raw wounds;
they are not pressed out or bound up
or softened with oil.

7 Your country lies desolate;
your cities are burned with fire;
in your very presence
foreigners devour your land;
it is desolate, as overthrown by foreigners.
8 And the daughter of Zion is left
like a booth in a vineyard,
like a lodge in a cucumber field,
like a besieged city.

9 If the Lord of hosts
had not left us a few survivors,
we should have been like Sodom,
and become like Gomorrah.

10 Hear the word of the Lord,
you rulers of Sodom!
Give ear to the teaching of our God,
you people of Gomorrah!
11 “What to me is the multitude of your sacrifices?
says the Lord;
I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams
and the fat of well-fed beasts;
I do not delight in the blood of bulls,
or of lambs, or of goats.

12 “When you come to appear before me,
who has required of you
this trampling of my courts?
13 Bring no more vain offerings;
incense is an abomination to me.
New moon and Sabbath and the calling of convocations—
I cannot endure iniquity and solemn assembly.
14 Your new moons and your appointed feasts
my soul hates;
they have become a burden to me;
I am weary of bearing them.
15 When you spread out your hands,
I will hide my eyes from you;
even though you make many prayers,
I will not listen;
your hands are full of blood.
16 Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean;
remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes;
cease to do evil,
17 learn to do good;
seek justice,
correct oppression;
bring justice to the fatherless,
plead the widow's cause.

18 “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord:
though your sins are like scarlet,
they shall be as white as snow;
though they are red like crimson,
they shall become like wool.
19 If you are willing and obedient,
you shall eat the good of the land;
20 but if you refuse and rebel,
you shall be eaten by the sword;
for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

Sermon OutlineWe are invited into a long dialogue (v18) about wonderful and difficult things - what will make this conversation productive?

Come to know God
v2 “children I have reared and brought up”
v3 “the ox knows its owner… my people do not understand”
Humbly accept your need
v10 “hear the word… Sodom… Gomorrah”
v13 “I cannot endure iniquity and your solemn assembly”
v15 “when you spread out your hands… your hands are full of blood”
See what the Lord will do for you
v18 “though your sins are like scarlet they shall become white as snow”
vv19-20 “if… you shall eat… but if… you shall be eaten”

Prayer of ConfessionHoly God, we are assembled before you and we confess our iniquity. We admit our ignorance and foolishness. You are our true Father, but we have exposed how little we know you. We act like the community of the corrupt, not the family of God. Forgive our religious hypocrisy. Forgive every harmful action. Apart from you, we are stuck in our sin. Thank you for the promise of cleansing and forgiveness. We marvel at your grace and generosity. We look to Jesus who shed his blood to cleanse the blood on our hands. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

If you will be going through Isaiah with Emmanuel (or at some point on your own), what expectations do you have? What will you encounter along the way?
What is the difference between knowing God and knowing about God? How does one know God?
When you encounter parts of the Bible where God offers correction, what is your response? What do you feel? What do you think?
Why is God’s goodness and love for us foundational for walking with God? What happens if we are not firm in those convictions?
Why is it so hard for people to receive correction?
How does true faith produce life change? What are the dangers of going to church or engaging with God simply to have the feelings of guilt relieved?
Do you believe that life with God is inherently rewarding? Do you believe that life apart from God is inherently dangerous?
What questions do you have for God in response to the revelation that God is holy and you need to trust Him and walk with Him? What do you want to know? What do you need to learn? What kind of help will you require? How will you listen or watch for answers?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Reformation Sunday

1 Timothy 1:15-17 (ESV) 15 The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. 16 But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. 17 To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

Sermon OutlineHow do we give God alone the glory?

We need to see ourselves more clearly
v. 15-16: The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. [16] But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost…
We need to see God more clearly
v. 15: The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world…
v. 15: … Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners…
v. 16: But I received mercy…
We need to see the world more clearly
v. 16: But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.
v. 17: To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, we confess that we do not always give you all the glory. Too often, we seek our own glory. We do not see ourselves as the foremost of all sinners because we believe we are not as terrible as we think we are. We need rescue from the bondage of comparison. By the power of your Spirit, help us to see ourselves more clearly that while we are sinners, we are your beloved children. Help us to see you more clearly that you sent Jesus to the world not to condemn, but to save us. And may we see the world more clearly where your perfect patience is displayed. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
How is possible that the Apostle can refer to himself as the greatest sinner ever?
Why do we compare ourselves with others and how can this lead to exhaustion?
How is it good news that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners? How is this a helpful summary of Christianity?
What practice of beholding splendor do you need more of?
How can giving God alone the glory affects our witness to the world?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Sabbath

Matthew 11:25-12:14 (ESV)25 At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; 26 yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. 27 All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. 28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

12:1 At that time Jesus went through the grainfields on the Sabbath. His disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. 2 But when the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, “Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath.” 3 He said to them, “Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, and those who were with him: 4 how he entered the house of God and ate the bread of the Presence, which it was not lawful for him to eat nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests? 5 Or have you not read in the Law how on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath and are guiltless? 6 I tell you, something greater than the temple is here. 7 And if you had known what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned the guiltless. 8 For the Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath.”

9 He went on from there and entered their synagogue. 10 And a man was there with a withered hand. And they asked him, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?”—so that they might accuse him. 11 He said to them, “Which one of you who has a sheep, if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not take hold of it and lift it out? 12 Of how much more value is a man than a sheep! So it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” 13 Then he said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And the man stretched it out, and it was restored, healthy like the other. 14 But the Pharisees went out and conspired against him, how to destroy him.

Sermon OutlineWhat kind of life has the quality of genuine rest within it?

The Perfectionist Trap
12:2, 4, 12 “lawful”
12:7 “I desire mercy, and not sacrifice”
Discerning What Is Greater
12:3 “have you not read what David did”; 12:5 “or have you not read in the law…”
12:6 “I tell you something greater than the temple is here”
11:27 “no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son”
11:25 “you have hidden these things from the wise… and revealed them to little children”
Good Rest Given to Us
11:28 “come to me… I will give you rest”
12:11-12 “how much more value is a man than a sheep?”
12:12 “So it is lawful to do good on the sabbath”
11:29 “rest for your souls”

Prayer of ConfessionMerciful Lord, we are weary people. We have exhausted ourselves keeping rules of our own making. We have neglected love and faithfulness, exposing how little we know you. Were it not for your goodness and mercy, we would collapse under our burden of guilt. Who is like you, so generous and gracious? It is through Christ, who gave himself for us, that we come appealing for forgiveness. With childlike faith, we come at your invitation seeking rest for our souls. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Are rules necessary? Why or why not?
What can go wrong when you are focused on rules?
Why does Jesus heal people on the sabbath? What is he showing us?
When we read about Jesus in the Gospels, what kinds of things shape what we notice, perceive, or understand? What influences our interpretations and how we assess Jesus?
What are some implications of Jesus’ claim that no one can know God the Father except through him?
How does Jesus give rest to people?
Why is rest something that is received? Why can’t we just make ourselves rest?
How does insight into the mercy of God bring rest to our souls?
How is goodness a quality of the Christian life? What practices would make the Lord’s day “good” for you?
What would help you experience church in a way that brings deeper rest to your soul?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Sabbath

Leviticus 23:3, Colossians 2:16-19, Revelation 1:9-11 (ESV)3 “Six days shall work be done, but on the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, a holy convocation. You shall do no work. It is a Sabbath to the Lord in all your dwelling places.

Colossians 2
16 Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. 17 These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. 18 Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, 19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.

Revelation 1
9 I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet 11 saying, “Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.”

Sermon OutlineWe are nourished to grow when we connect with God each week by looking up to Christ.

Head
Col 2:19 “…holding fast to the head…”
Col 2:18 “… puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind…”
Substance
Col 2:17 “these are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ”
Col 2:16 “let no one pass judgment on you… with regard to… sabbath”
Lord
Rev 1:10 “in the Spirit on the Lord’s day” (Lev 23:3 “a holy convocation”)
Col 2:16, 18 “let no one pass judgment on you”, “let no one disqualify you”

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, you are above all. We humble ourselves, admitting our need of forgiveness. We have been puffed up, thinking we are fine apart from you. We have been prideful, striving to earn what we could never attain. We have sought life in the shadowy things but not in the substance, Jesus Christ. Our restless souls are mired in the mess we have made because of the sinful thoughts and actions that spring from our corrupt hearts. We are setting our minds above, to where Christ is seated, to remember your mercy and ask again for forgiveness. Bring rest to our weary souls, and nourish us for the growth that comes from you alone. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What nourishes your soul? As you look back, what has helped you grow?
Why is Jesus described as a “head”? What is it about a head that is important for us to understand?
What practices can you prioritize on the first day of the week to help you put your mind in connection with the mind of Christ? What can you do to help you see what Jesus wants you to see?
What can go wrong if you are chasing mystical experiences?
How can keeping a sabbath day become burdensome?
What can we learn from Jesus being presented as the “substance”, with all that was before him being shadow?
What is significant about Christians gathering weekly on the day Jesus was raised?
How is the gospel a help for anyone trying to keep the discipline of a day of rest? What challenges will come up as you try to keep this practice and why is God’s grace important for working through them? What kind of rest is possible when you are working the gospel into your life (what weighs on you that can be lifted as you gain the mind of Christ and his grace)?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Sabbath

Luke 13:10-17 (ESV)1 Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. 11 And behold, there was a woman who had had a disabling spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. 12 When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your disability.” 13 And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and she glorified God. 14 But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days in which work ought to be done. Come on those days and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day.” 15 Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger and lead it away to water it? 16 And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” 17 As he said these things, all his adversaries were put to shame, and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.

Sermon OutlineWhy do we need the Sabbath?

We need the Sabbath to notice things we would otherwise not notice
v. 10: Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. And behold, there was a woman who had had a disabling spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not fully straighten herself.
v. 12: When Jesus saw her, he called her over
We need the Sabbath to remind ourselves that we are not God
v. 12: When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your disability.” And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and she glorified God.
v. 14: But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath.
v. 14: But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days in which work ought to be done. Come on those days and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day.”
We need the Sabbath to give us hope
v. 15: “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger and lead it away to water it? And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?”
Luke 4:18-19: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
John 16:33: I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, you have given us the Sabbath as a gift to rest, to see the world and ourselves more rightly, and to hope for the restoration of all things. But instead of receiving the Sabbath as a gift, we receive it as a threat. We do not want to slow down and acknowledge the broken things of the world. We do not want to admit our limits and inabilities. Jesus, help us to receive and follow the Sabbath as a gift and as your mercy to us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Describe the challenges you face to follow and observe the Sabbath.
If the Sabbath allows us to see and notice the broken things around us, what specific things is Jesus inviting you to see?
In what ways do you find Jesus threatening? Are there any particular teachings that you find difficult to embrace and follow?
The Sabbath reminds us that we are not God. How do you see this as a threat? How might you see this as God’s mercy?
Have there been times when you felt nearer to Jesus when you acknowledged your limits and inabilities?
The Sabbath points us to a greater hope that is coming. What are you trusting Jesus for in recent times? How does the Sabbath help you to hope well?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Sabbath

Amos 8:1-14 (ESV)1 This is what the Lord God showed me: behold, a basket of summer fruit. 2 And he said, “Amos, what do you see?” And I said, “A basket of summer fruit.” Then the Lord said to me,

“The end has come upon my people Israel;
I will never again pass by them.
3 The songs of the temple shall become wailings in that day,”
declares the Lord God.
“So many dead bodies!”
“They are thrown everywhere!”
“Silence!”

4 Hear this, you who trample on the needy
and bring the poor of the land to an end,
5 saying, “When will the new moon be over,
that we may sell grain?
And the Sabbath,
that we may offer wheat for sale,
that we may make the ephah small and the shekel great
and deal deceitfully with false balances,
6 that we may buy the poor for silver
and the needy for a pair of sandals
and sell the chaff of the wheat?”

7 The Lord has sworn by the pride of Jacob:
“Surely I will never forget any of their deeds.
8 Shall not the land tremble on this account,
and everyone mourn who dwells in it,
and all of it rise like the Nile,
and be tossed about and sink again, like the Nile of Egypt?”

9 “And on that day,” declares the Lord God,
“I will make the sun go down at noon
and darken the earth in broad daylight.
10 I will turn your feasts into mourning
and all your songs into lamentation;
I will bring sackcloth on every waist
and baldness on every head;
I will make it like the mourning for an only son
and the end of it like a bitter day.

11 “Behold, the days are coming,” declares the Lord God,
“when I will send a famine on the land—
not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water,
but of hearing the words of the Lord.
12 They shall wander from sea to sea,
and from north to east;
they shall run to and fro, to seek the word of the Lord,
but they shall not find it.

13 “In that day the lovely virgins and the young men
shall faint for thirst.
14 Those who swear by the Guilt of Samaria,
and say, ‘As your god lives, O Dan,’
and, ‘As the Way of Beersheba lives,’
they shall fall, and never rise again.”

Sermon OutlineIs sabbath an opportunity or is it limiting?

End of Relationship
vv1-2 “a basket of summer fruit” “the end has come…”
v5 “when will the sabbath be over?”
v3 “the songs of the temple... wailing”
v2 “never again pass by them”
v11 “famine of the word of God”
End of Corruption
v5 “make the ephah small and shekel great, deal deceitfully with false balances”
v4 “bring the poor to an end” (v6 “buy the poor”)
End of Misery
v12 “seek and not find”
v9 “I will make the sun go down at noon”
v10 “…make it like the mourning for an only son”
v13 “young men… faint for thirst”
v14 “your god… shall fall… and never rise”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, like children we depend on you for all things. We admit our sin. We have looked to you for what you can give us, failing to appreciate you, the giver. We have looked to the world thinking it can give us something better. We have experienced your ways as burdensome; we have resented your protective restraints. In greed, we have crossed lines for personal gain, causing damage and dishonoring others. We have ignored your word. We have misunderstood your patience. Through Christ, cleanse us from all sin. Open our ears to hear your gospel of grace so that everything in our lives is renewed and aligned with you. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Do you look forward to Sunday? What is your favorite part of the day?
What kinds of things will you miss church for? How do you decide (what priorities do you have and how do you weigh them)?
Are you eager for your work week to end (most weeks)? Why? Do you have a time you are committed to each week where you will not do any work?
What would be your response to a prophet announcing a “famine of God’s word”? How would this effect you? What would you be concerned about?
Where do you see greed at work in your life? How does greed effect you?
Why does greed within us prohibit connecting deeply with God?
Is there any area of your life where you are cheating, manipulating, fudging the truth or taking advantage of others? Why? What are you gaining?
How can God’s generosity change your heart? What is so striking about Jesus giving himself so sacrificially for us?
Since you can now seek and find, what are you doing to seek God?
How can you make the most of a day for worship? What things can you do? What should you not do on that one day?
How can a day of worship refresh you for the work of the other 6 days?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Sabbath

Exodus 16:13-30 (ESV)13 In the evening quail came up and covered the camp, and in the morning dew lay around the camp. 14 And when the dew had gone up, there was on the face of the wilderness a fine, flake-like thing, fine as frost on the ground. 15 When the people of Israel saw it, they said to one another, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was. And Moses said to them, “It is the bread that the Lord has given you to eat. 16 This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Gather of it, each one of you, as much as he can eat. You shall each take an omer, according to the number of the persons that each of you has in his tent.’” 17 And the people of Israel did so. They gathered, some more, some less. 18 But when they measured it with an omer, whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack. Each of them gathered as much as he could eat. 19 And Moses said to them, “Let no one leave any of it over till the morning.” 20 But they did not listen to Moses. Some left part of it till the morning, and it bred worms and stank. And Moses was angry with them. 21 Morning by morning they gathered it, each as much as he could eat; but when the sun grew hot, it melted.

22 On the sixth day they gathered twice as much bread, two omers each. And when all the leaders of the congregation came and told Moses, 23 he said to them, “This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Tomorrow is a day of solemn rest, a holy Sabbath to the Lord; bake what you will bake and boil what you will boil, and all that is left over lay aside to be kept till the morning.’” 24 So they laid it aside till the morning, as Moses commanded them, and it did not stink, and there were no worms in it. 25 Moses said, “Eat it today, for today is a Sabbath to the Lord; today you will not find it in the field. 26 Six days you shall gather it, but on the seventh day, which is a Sabbath, there will be none.”

27 On the seventh day some of the people went out to gather, but they found none. 28 And the Lord said to Moses, “How long will you refuse to keep my commandments and my laws? 29 See! The Lord has given you the Sabbath; therefore on the sixth day he gives you bread for two days. Remain each of you in his place; let no one go out of his place on the seventh day.” 30 So the people rested on the seventh day.

Sermon OutlineWhy should we prepare for a day to feed our souls?

Bodies with Appetites
v15 “what is it?” “it is the bread the Lord has given you”
vv16-21 “…whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack” (v18)
v23 “… bake what you will bake and boil what you will boil… all that is left over lay aside to be kept till the morning“
Souls that Hunger
v26 “on the seventh day, which is a Sabbath, there will be none”
v12 “then you shall know…”
Food that Gives Life
John 6:58 “whoever feeds on this bread will live forever”
v23 “Tomorrow is a day of solemn rest, a holy Sabbath to the Lord”
v30 “so the people rested on the seventh day”

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, you give life and all we need for life. We confess how little of our daily dependence we understand, and how little of your provision we recognize. We struggle with disordered appetites. We grumble against you while we reap the consequences of own foolishness. We have been calloused to the troubles we have caused others. We have muted our spiritual hunger. Rest in you has been a low priority. Forgive every sin. We remember Jesus, the true bread who came down from heaven; who gave his body for our bodies; who will raise up all who have received his grace. Nourish our souls as we remember Jesus with faith. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Do you ever prepare for a day off? For vacation? If so, how? If not, why not?
What role does food preparation play in your life? How much time is spent in attaining the means to acquire it, prepare it, consume it?
What appetite do you have that is stronger or takes precedence over your appetite to eat? What do you desire most?
How do you struggle with contentment? What in your life do you feel you never have enough of?
Do you have a hunger for God? Is there a desire for more of God? How do you know?
If you had a full 24 hour period to focus only on loving God and loving people – on cultivating your soul – what would you do? What would you find difficult to do?
How does Jesus, the person, nourish our souls? What does it mean to “eat his body”? How are we to understand what he means in his call to trust him for eternal life, and to come alive and grow spiritually?
What can you do to free up time on Sundays for more intentional life with God?
What is an enjoyable thing you do to connect with God? How can you find a time every Sunday to do it?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Sabbath

Deuteronomy 5:12-15 (ESV)12 “‘Observe the Sabbath day, to keep it holy, as the Lord your God commanded you. 13 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 14 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, you or your son or your daughter or your male servant or your female servant, or your ox or your donkey or any of your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates, that your male servant and your female servant may rest as well as you. 15 You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the Lord your God commanded you to keep the Sabbath day.

Sermon OutlineBe clear on what is first in your life (make sure it is God) and guard that priority with how you organize your time (v14).

Remember That You Were Slaves
v15 “You shall remember that you were a slave”
Remember That God Brought You Out
v15b “You shall remember that… God brought you out from there”
Observe and Keep a Day
v12 “Observe the Sabbath day, to keep it holy, as the Lord your God commanded you.”
v13 “On it you shall not do any work, you or your son or your daughter or your male servant...”

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, our great redeemer, again we need your grace. We admit our sin and failings. We remember that we have given ourselves over to what has enslaved us. We have served and devoted ourselves to people, things, institutions and ideologies. We have suffered the miseries of idolatry. We have subjected others to misery because of our corrupt stewardship of power. We have not welcomed your invitation or heeded your warning to keep you first in our lives. Forgive us. As we remember our sin and misery, we also remember you, our deliverer. Thank you for coming in glory and power to rescue us. Thank you for coming with humility and dealing with our sin with such sacrificial mercy. Free us from guilt and shame, and refresh us for our walk with you this week. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What is your first priority in life? Where is it in your schedule? How have you prioritized it?
Why is it important to have a positive vision of work and rest? Why is rest good, even if it doesn’t feel needed?
Why is it important to discern ways work gets corrupted? What are some ways work has been or become problematic for you?
Why is important to see rest as a means of dealing with how work is negatively impacting you?
What does it mean to “remember you were a slave”? A slave to what? What have you experienced that touches on this theme?
Who do we see God to be in moments like the exodus or in Jesus going to the cross? What do these actions display about the character of God?
Do you need to draw more heavily on God’s strength, as the protector who comes to deliver and defend; or on God’s kindness and compassion, who cares about you and enters your suffering? How are both needed?
How can you put and keep God first in your life? What needs to happen with your rhythms and schedule to safeguard that?
What can you do to make the first day of the week a day where you are connecting with God? What do you need to be careful about?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Sabbath

Genesis 1:26-2:3; Exodus 20:8-11 (ESV)26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”

27 So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.

28 And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” 29 And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food. 30 And to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the heavens and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food.” And it was so. 31 And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.

2:1 Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. 2 And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done. 3 So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.

Exodus 20:8 “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your female servant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates. 11 For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

Sermon OutlineTake the day God has given you: rest in Him and make that the center of how you organize your time.

Patterns of Work and Rest
Exodus 20:9-10 “Six days you shall labor… but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God.”
Inverted Reality
Genesis 2:2-3 “And on the seventh day God finished his work… and he rested…”
Genesis 1:26-27 “God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…”
A Day to Look to the Eternal God
Exodus 20:8 “remember”
Genesis 2:3, Exodus 20:11 “God blessed the seventh day and made it holy”

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, you have made all things good and blessed us with the dignity of bearing your image. We admit our sin and shortcomings to you. Instead of imitating you, we have attempted to replace you. We have not made you the center of our lives. We have rested when we should be working, we have worked when we should be resting. We are tired. Forgive our disobedience. Thank you for the work of Christ which brings rest to our weary souls. Thank you for gifting us a day to assemble in your presence. Cleanse us from all sin, and refresh our hearts for the work of this week. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What does time off look like for you? How often do you take intentional breaks? What do you do?
Which is more difficult for you: resting or working? Why?
What is good about setting aside one day in seven for rest and worship? What are some benefits?
What makes taking a whole day off hard?
What has misplaced God in your life? What corrupted thoughts keep you from enjoying God? Imitating God? Trusting God?
Why is it impossible for our work to ever be good enough? How can you cease when it feels like more needs to be done? What do you need to remember?
How does Jesus completing the work of redemption free those who trust him? What does his work on the cross free you from?
How is sabbath a gift?
What is helpful to remember on the sabbath?
How can make Sunday a special day? What would make it joyful? What can be part of your weekly routine to connect with God on the first day of the week?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series:

Micah 6:6-8 (ESV)6 “With what shall I come before the Lord,
and bow myself before God on high?
Shall I come before him with burnt offerings,
with calves a year old?
7 Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams,
with ten thousands of rivers of oil?
Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression,
the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?”
8 He has told you, O man, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?.

Sermon OutlineWalking with God is the key ingredient missing in most efforts for a good life.

Wholeness for a Good Life
v8 “do justice… love kindness… walk humbly with your God”
Weariness as a Symptom
v3 “In what have I wearied you?”
vv6-8 “With what shall I come before the Lord…?”
Walking Humbly With God
v7 “Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression?”
v8 “humbly with”
v8 “he has told you what is good… what does the Lord require…?”

Prayer of ConfessionOur just and merciful God, we are present with you but have little to offer. We have not done enough to earn your favor. What we have done should provoke your anger. You are so kind and patient with us, but we are harsh and selfish towards one another. You invite us to walk with you, but we go astray. Forgive us our sins. Were it not for your compassion, and for what Jesus has done on our behalf, we would have no hope. Thank you for showing us what is good. Thank you for giving so generously and sacrificially to us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What do you most gravitate towards: doing justice, loving kindness, or walking with God? Why? What does this look like in your life?
Can you live justly if you are not walking with God? How does walking with God help one realize a truly upright life?
Why do Christians wind up legalistic? Why can Christians tend towards an emotionalism? What is needed to hold together the fulness of the Christian life?
Do you find walking with God energizing and strengthening? When do you find the Christian life wearying? What do you think is causing any current weariness?
What in how you relate to God betrays problematic assumptions about who God is? What religious habits in your life point you to areas where you are not relating well to God?
What keeps you from seeing the good God shows you? What hinders you from hearing the good God speaks to you? What can you do to be more open to receiving from God?
How are you walking with God in daily life? What are next steps for you to live life more fully with God? Where in your life are you least mindful of God?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Charles Drew
Sermon Series: Politics

Psalm 97 (ESV)1 The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice;
let the many coastlands be glad!
2 Clouds and thick darkness are all around him;
righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
3 Fire goes before him
and burns up his adversaries all around.
4 His lightnings light up the world;
the earth sees and trembles.
5 The mountains melt like wax before the Lord,
before the Lord of all the earth.

6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness,
and all the peoples see his glory.
7 All worshipers of images are put to shame,
who make their boast in worthless idols;
worship him, all you gods!

8 Zion hears and is glad,
and the daughters of Judah rejoice,
because of your judgments, O Lord.
9 For you, O Lord, are most high over all the earth;
you are exalted far above all gods.

10 O you who love the Lord, hate evil!
He preserves the lives of his saints;
he delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
11 Light is sown [dawns] for the righteous,
and joy for the upright in heart.
12 Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous,
and give thanks to his holy name!

Sermon Outline Slides

Prayer of Confession
Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, we have sinned against you and against our neighbors, in thought, word and deed, through negligence, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We are truly sorry and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and grant that we may serve you in newness of life, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Psalm 77 - With God in the Dark

Psalm 77 (ESV)To the choirmaster: according to Jeduthun. A Psalm of Asaph.

1 I cry aloud to God,
aloud to God, and he will hear me.
2 In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord;
in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying;
my soul refuses to be comforted.
3 When I remember God, I moan;
when I meditate, my spirit faints. Selah

4 You hold my eyelids open;
I am so troubled that I cannot speak.
5 I consider the days of old,
the years long ago.
6 I said, “Let me remember my song in the night;
let me meditate in my heart.”
Then my spirit made a diligent search:
7 “Will the Lord spurn forever,
and never again be favorable?
8 Has his steadfast love forever ceased?
Are his promises at an end for all time?
9 Has God forgotten to be gracious?
Has he in anger shut up his compassion?” Selah

10 Then I said, “I will appeal to this,
to the years of the right hand of the Most High.

11 I will remember the deeds of the Lord;
yes, I will remember your wonders of old.
12 I will ponder all your work,
and meditate on your mighty deeds.
13 Your way, O God, is holy.
What god is great like our God?
14 You are the God who works wonders;
you have made known your might among the peoples.
15 You with your arm redeemed your people,
the children of Jacob and Joseph. Selah

16 When the waters saw you, O God,
when the waters saw you, they were afraid;
indeed, the deep trembled.
17 The clouds poured out water;
the skies gave forth thunder;
your arrows flashed on every side.
18 The crash of your thunder was in the whirlwind;
your lightnings lighted up the world;
the earth trembled and shook.
19 Your way was through the sea,
your path through the great waters;
yet your footprints were unseen.
20 You led your people like a flock
by the hand of Moses and Aaron.

Sermon OutlineHow do you reorient with God when you feel lost? (v15)

Remember the Redeemer
v10 “Then I said, ‘I will appeal to… the years of the right hand of the Most High’”
vv11-I4 “will remember the deeds… your wonders of old…Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God?”
Let the Redeemer Lead the Way
v16 “When the waters saw you, they were afraid”
v19 “Your way was through the sea… yet your footprints were unseen”
v20 “You led your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron”

Prayer of ConfessionOur mighty Redeemer, you have made us, and you provide daily for us. Instead of eagerly drawing near to you, we continually wander away. We don’t follow your lead. We take so much for granted. We lose sight of you as we foolishly set our eyes and hopes on other things. We act in ways that are contrary to yours. We are left with troubled souls. Without your gracious intervention we would have no hope. Thank you for paying the debt of our sin and for granting us forgiveness in such a costly way. In the name of Jesus our redeemer, show us mercy. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What do you do when you feel lost or in the dark? What works or helps? What does not?
Why is it hard to see God or connect with God when you are in a difficult time? Is it harder for you to connect with God in difficult times, or when things are going well?
What is most helpful to you: God as creator, as redeemer, or as sustainer? (the creator who wisely makes, orders and gives life; the redeemer who lovingly, courageously, and sacrificially comes and rescues; the sustainer who daily provides)
What are the most helpful things to bring to mind and meditate on regarding who God is, what God has done, or what God says? Is there anything you avoid? Anything that other Christians find helpful that you don’t? Why?
How is Jesus as a redeemer a unique help to those who feel lost, overwhelmed, hopeless, or unworthy?
How can connecting with Jesus be a step towards seeing/appreciating the greatness of the Creator? How can connecting with Jesus be a step towards seeing/appreciating the kind, responsible provision of the sustainer?
What does Jesus going into darkness on the cross reveal about God? How is this a help to people who are fearful or skeptical yet have a longing to draw near to God?
Why do you find it hard to fully receive from God? What keeps you from resting in Him? What would happen if you ceased striving for a period?
What is one thing that roots you in God’s goodness that you can think about this week?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Psalm 77 - With God in the Dark

Psalm 77 (ESV)To the choirmaster: according to Jeduthun. A Psalm of Asaph.

10 Then I said, “I will appeal to this,
to the years of the right hand of the Most High.

Sermon OutlineDifficult periods that require adaptation and patience also expose our weakness and immaturity - we can deepen and grow while going through these periods if we stay with Jesus.

The Struggle of Change
v4 “You hold my eyelids open; I am so troubled that I cannot speak.”
vv5-6 “I consider the days of old… ‘Let me remember’”
Hard Questions
v6 “Then my spirit made a diligent search”
vv7-9 “Will the Lord… never again… forever ceased… an end for all time?” Has God forgotten…?
A Good Shepherd
v10 “I will appeal to… the right hand of the Most High.”

Prayer of ConfessionOur good Shepherd, we have wandered and strayed. We have resisted the path of growth. We have stubbornly refused change. In our efforts to force you into our desires and understandings, we have erred in many ways. We are guilty of false accusations against you. When we have needed you most we pushed you away. Forgive every sin. We are guilty too in what we have thought of others and how we have treated them. We confess we are helpless apart from you. Forgive our unbelief. We appeal to you, asking for your continued oversight, and praying for mercy as we return to walk with you. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What fears arise when you are in periods of change?
What assumptions do you have, or what judgements are you quick to make regarding God or what you think God is doing, when in difficult periods?
Are there certain questions you are continually asking God? Why?
What are strategies for staying with God when you don’t have answers to your questions?
How can you discern each next faithful step? What are things you can do while you can’t grasp how it all fits together to take one action at a time that is faithfully on the path of Christ?
Is there anything God is teaching you now? What is happening in your life and how can you move deeper and into greater maturity as you navigate it?
What makes Jesus the good shepherd? What do you see in Jesus or what Jesus offers that is still desirable?
How are you being called to trust God in this season? What need or limitation requires that you rest in Him and wait on Him?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Psalm 77

Psalm 77 (ESV)To the choirmaster: according to Jeduthun. A Psalm of Asaph.

10 Then I said, “I will appeal to this,
to the years of the right hand of the Most High.

Sermon OutlineThere will be difficult stretches on the path of following Jesus where you will need to seek God while having the impression God is not with you.

Staying With God
v1 “I cry aloud to God… he will hear me”
Painful Remembering
v3 “When I remember God, I moan…”
Seeking Comfort In God
v2 “In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord… my soul refuses to be comforted”

Prayer of ConfessionWe cry aloud to you, O God. Help us! We are weak and weary. We admit our unsteady faith, and the guilt of our sin. We give up too quickly. We are too desperate for comfort. In our confusion, we assume the worst of you. Forgive every sin in every area of our lives. Thank you for Jesus, who entered our misery, yet without sin. We appeal to you in his name, who made provision for our forgiveness, and through his suffering reconciled us. We remember you and we humbly acknowledge your mercy. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Do you ever have the sense that God is with you? What is that experience like? Is it sufficient for strength and encouragement to keep going in most circumstances?
What questions arise in your mind regarding God when you are suffering? What are your fears? What makes you angry? What do you stay confused about?
What does it look like to “walk with God”? In daily life, what is it like to navigate decisions with the intention to go through life with God?
What does it look like to walk with God when you are of the impression God is not with/for you? How do you navigate that? What temptations do you need to be watchful for?
What are appropriate things to do when you feel you need God but aren’t discerning God is present or helping you? What can you do with your anger? With your fear? With your confusion? In particular, what are ways to bring these things to God or work them out with God?
Should you keep attending church or stay engaged in Christian community during these periods? What should you do if contact with the church feels alienating or painful?
Why do we have to be careful about where we go for comfort?
How does the suffering of Jesus help sufferers? What truth does the gospel convey to help you seek and rest in God during confusing periods where you don’t have the sense God is with you?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: The Gospel and the World

Daniel 3 (ESV) (Select Verses) [1] King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold... [4] And the herald proclaimed aloud, “You are commanded, O peoples, nations, and languages, [5] that when you hear the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, bagpipe, and every kind of music, you are to fall down and worship the golden image that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. [6] And whoever does not fall down and worship shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace.”

[8] Therefore at that time certain Chaldeans came forward and maliciously accused the Jews. [9] They declared to King Nebuchadnezzar, “O king, live forever! [10] You, O king, have made a decree, that every man who hears the sound of … every kind of music, shall fall down and worship the golden image. [11] And whoever does not fall down and worship shall be cast into a burning fiery furnace. [12] There are certain Jews whom you have appointed over the affairs of the province of Babylon: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These men, O king, pay no attention to you; they do not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.”

[13] Then Nebuchadnezzar in furious rage commanded that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be brought. So they brought these men before the king. [14] Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the golden image that I have set up? [15] Now if you are ready when you hear the sound of … every kind of music, to fall down and worship the image that I have made, well and good. But if you do not worship, you shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace. And who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands?”

[16] Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. [17] If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. [18] But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.”

[19] Then Nebuchadnezzar was filled with fury, and the expression of his face was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He ordered the furnace heated seven times more than it was usually heated. [20] And he ordered some of the mighty men of his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.

[24] Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up in haste. He declared to his counselors, “Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?” … “But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods.”

Sermon Outline

What does integrity look like?
v. 16: “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.”
What is the cost of integrity?
v. 8: “Therefore at that time certain Chaldeans came forward and maliciously accused the Jews.”
v. 13: “…furious rage.”
v. 12: There are certain Jews whom you have appointed over the affairs of the province of Babylon: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These men, O king, pay no attention to you;
v. 15: But if you do not worship, you shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace. And who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands?”
How can we have integrity in the world?
v. 24: Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up in haste. He declared to his counselors, “Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?” … “But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods.”

Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, you call us to be salt and light in the world, but at times we do not reflect your good news as you call us to do. Instead of living with integrity, we make compromises; whether out of fear, out of comfort, or to avoid the costliness of living with integrity. Give us courage to live with conviction that the gospel truly is good news. And remind us that Jesus is with us no matter how great the cost may be. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Describe any positive examples of Christians living with integrity. What stood out?
When have you faced situations where you needed to choose integrity over compromise? When might have you made compromises?
What costs have you experienced to maintain your Christian integrity?
How does knowing that Jesus is “in the fire with you” give you strength and courage to have integrity, especially when the costs are great?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: The Gospel and the World

Romans 13:1-7 (ESV) 13 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, 4 for he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore one must be in subjection, not only to avoid God's wrath but also for the sake of conscience. 6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God, attending to this very thing. 7 Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.

Sermon Outline

The Role of the Government
Governments have been called by God to be his servants
v. 1-2: Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed.
v. 4: for he is God's servant for your good… For he is the servant of God
v. 3-4: For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad… For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer
v. 6: For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God, attending to this very thing.
Our Role as Citizens
To submit to the government
v. 1: Let every person be subject to the governing authorities
The Hope To Be Good Citizens
Philippians 3:20–21: But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, we know from your Word that you have instituted the government to be your servant, but we confess that we can be suspicious of our government and struggle to see the good that it does. We also know from your Word that we are to submit to the government, but we need your wisdom to know how to do this well. May we not demonize our government and may we not worship it. By the power of your Spirit, help us to be faithful to our calling as citizens of heaven while we are here on earth. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Describe your view of the US government. What is your opinion of it? When have you seen it behave faithfully as God’s servant? When have you seen it struggle to do so?
In what ways do you find submitting to the government easy? In what ways is this command difficult to follow?
What correctives do you believe need to be made to the American church in how it submits or does not submit to the government?
If Christians are citizens of heaven, how does that help the church be more faithful to the calling to submit to the government?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: The Gospel and the World

Jeremiah 29:4-14 (ESV) 4 “Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5 Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce. 6 Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. 7 But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. 8 For thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Do not let your prophets and your diviners who are among you deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams that they dream, 9 for it is a lie that they are prophesying to you in my name; I did not send them, declares the Lord.

10 “For thus says the Lord: When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promise and bring you back to this place. 11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. 13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you, declares the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, declares the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.

Sermon Outline

The challenge of seeking the peace of the world
v. 4: Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon
v. 8-9: Do not let your prophets and your diviners who are among you deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams that they dream, for it is a lie that they are prophesying to you in my name; I did not send them, declares the LORD.
The call to seeking the peace of the world
v. 7a: But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile.
v. 5-6: Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce. Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease.
v. 7: But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.
The power to seeking the peace of the world
v. 10: For thus says the LORD: When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promise and bring you back to this place.
v. 11: For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
v. 14: I will be found by you, declares the LORD, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, declares the LORD, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.
v. 12-13: Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.

Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious God, you call us to seek the peace of the world, but we would rather seek our own peace. Forgive us for failing to obey your call to cultivate your shalom in our world. We confess that we lack the power and energy to do this well. Obeying your will is overwhelming at times and we struggle with guilt for not meeting your standards. Help us to look to Jesus as he has restored shalom to us and gives us the power to cultivate your shalom. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
What challenges do you face when considering the call to seek the peace of the world? In what ways do you struggle with consuming the city and not serving it?
Where have you personally experienced the lack of shalom in the city?
What have you seen and experienced as real evidence of shalom in the city?
If we seek the peace of the city well, we will have a more positive reputation with those around us. How can this be more true of us?
In verse 10-14, where do you find the encouragement to pursue this call to seek the peace of the world?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: The Gospel and the World

John 17:6-19 (ESV) 6 “I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7 Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you. 8 For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9 I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. 10 All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. 11 And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. 12 While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. 13 But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.

Sermon Outline
In Jesus’ prayer, he says that Christians are “not of this world.” This means that Christians…

… belong to God. (v. 6-10)
… are to be visible in the world. (v. 11-16)
… are sent on mission. (v. 17-21)

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, you call us to be in the world and bear witness to your good news, but we do not always obey your calling. We confess that too often we are fearful of the world’s rejection. Rather than showing the beauty of the gospel, we adopt the values of the world. Give us courage to continue the ministry of Jesus. Sanctify us in your truth so that we would love the world as you do. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Jesus mentions multiple times that we belong to God: e.g. “Yours they were… they are yours… all mine are yours… etc.” How does your soul respond to this truth?
What does it mean that Jesus is glorified in us (v. 10)?
Describe a moment when you or someone you know was hated by the world (v. 14)?
If Jesus sends us into the world to continue his ministry, what does that look like for you?
Jesus prays for the church’s unity and this unity acts as a witness to the world, so that more people will believe in the gospel. How can unity be an evangelistic tool? When have you seen this at work?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 6:21-24 (ESV) 21 So that you also may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord will tell you everything. 22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts.

23 Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible.

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 6:10-20 (ESV) 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

Sermon OutlineWe need to pray with alertness to resist forces that alienate us from God.

What are we alert to?
“keep alert with all perseverance”
What does alertness in prayer look like?
“with all prayer and supplication”
What can continual prayer do to help us remain alert?
“praying at all times in the Spirit”

Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious Father, we come in the name of Jesus, who succeeded in the Spirit when his flesh was failing. We confess our spiritual failings. We have given into temptation and deception because we were not alert. We have not persisted in prayer. We have not lived by your ways. Forgive our laziness, apathy, doubt, pride, and anything else that has brought division between us. Show us mercy, and keep us from temptation. Grant us forgiveness in Christ. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Why is prayer important? What do you think are chief reasons to pray, or benefits of prayer?
What makes prayer hard for you?
What do you need to be alert to in prayer? What should you be watching for or mindful of?
Why is it important for prayer to include more than just “supplication”? What happens if you only turn to God to ask God to do things?
What new beliefs come with Christianity that direct you to form habits for the discipline of prayer? What is wise about making prayer a priority?
What can you do to stay in prayer when it starts to get difficult?
Are there ways of praying that you have been neglecting? How can you pray in all circumstances? Think through different aspects of your day and how prayer fits into them.
What encouragement can you take from Jesus having prayed for his followers? How can you become stronger through what Jesus has done on your behalf?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon InfoSpeaker: Rev. Ed Sirya

Matthew 5:1-12 (ESV)1 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.

2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Sermon OutlineRespond to the crafty attempts to confuse you with what God has said.

Schemes of the Devil
v11 “that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil”
v17 “the sword… which is the word of God”
Sword of the Spirit
v17 “of the Spirit” (v12 “against the spiritual forces of evil”)
vv19-20 “also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel,for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, you are truthful, generous and wise. Forgive us for being so mistrusting. Our fears and doubts have been a gateway to deception. We are easily provoked to resentment and cynicism towards you. We neglect reading your word. We fail to do the hard consistent work needed to grasp and understand your ways. We are filled with pride and arrogance. We are also filled with guilt and shame. Forgive every sin. May the good news work deeply and thoroughly in our lives so the fruits of the Spirit are produced in us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What do you experience as the greatest challenges to reading the Bible?
What doubts do you have about God? When do those doubts tend to surface?
What do you do when you don’t understand a particular teaching of Christianity?
What is the role of prayer and Bible study in forming us for life? What kinds of things do you experience that would benefit from going to the Bible for guidance?
How can listening to God help prepare you to face difficulties? How does knowing scripture enable a Christian to stand firm at crucial times?
Most of us don’t know the Bible as well as we should. How do we live faithfully given there is so much we don’t know?
What do you think are some of the foundational teachings of the Bible that you need to hold firmly to? Is there a particular Bible verse or passage that speaks most deeply to you? Why do you think you resonate with that particular passage?
Why is it important that one person, Jesus, did not fall for any of the schemes of the devil? How do we benefit from his faithfulness?
What are some habits you can incorporate into your life so you are more consistently reading and meditating on Scripture?
How can you preach the gospel to yourself? How can you bring to mind God’s good news for you when you are discouraged and spiraling downward?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 6:13-18, Titus 3:3-7 (ESV) 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.

3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. 4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Sermon OutlineWhenever we put on the helmet of salvation it reminds us of three things:

We were once in bondage – Titus 3:3
For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another.
We have been freed – Titus 3:4-6
But when the goodness and loving kindnessof God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior
We are now heirs of God – Titus 3:7
so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life

Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, each day we are afflicted by the evil one, who desires to keep us in bondage. Too often, we do not put on your armor, we do not trust in your work of salvation, we doubt your character. By the power of your Spirit, help us to see that your goodness and loving kindness is fully present in Jesus, the one who saved us according to his rich mercy and made us co-heirs with him. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Which tactic of the evil one have you struggled with: I don’t need God’s salvation… Am I truly saved?… I will never have God’s salvation.
What has given you assurance of salvation in Jesus?
Salvation in Jesus depends on his character and not on how worthy we are. How is this reassuring? How might this be difficult to receive?
Christians are not only saved and rescued by Jesus, but they are co-heirs with him. What does this look like in day-to-day life?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 6:13-18, Hebrews 11:1-3, 6 (ESV) 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.

1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2 For by it the people of old received their commendation. 3 By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.

6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Sermon OutlineFaith in God protects us, minimizing damage when evil comes into our lives.

Understanding
v3 “by faith we understand…”
v1 “faith is… the conviction of things not seen”
v3 “the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible”
Reactivity
v6 “And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”
Protection
vv1-2 “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for… For by it the people of old received their commendation.”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, good, wise and merciful: we are assembled to seek you. We are drawing near despite our unworthiness. We have failed to trust you. We have trusted in things that have failed us. We have been vulnerable to evil and its influences. Instead of resisting temptation, we have cooperated with it. We have helped spread damage instead of containing it. In our weakness we have done what we ought not do. We are guilty of sin. Forgive us. We look to Jesus who is faithful and trustworthy. We confess faith in you, our rock and our shield. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What are your top 2-3 core beliefs/convictions? What do you most deeply believe, and how does that shape how you understand and interpret life?
What makes belief in the God of the Bible hard for you? What influences have shaped you so that you are evaluating all things, even God, by them?
What attitudes, thoughts or behaviors come out when you are not feeling well, when you have failed, when others have harmed you, when too much is going on, etc.? What patterns do you notice in your reactivity?
How do difficulties make wise/ethical choices and actions harder? What will help you do the right thing when you don’t want to, or it feels too hard?
What practices help you seek God? What beliefs do you need to hold on to for the on-going seeking of God and deepening with God?
What does Jesus reveal about the Father that makes clear God is good and trustworthy? How does standing firmly on the conviction of God’s goodness offer protection?
How can hope in God’s good promises protect you from falling away in the present?
What steps would help you become more confident in God? How does God become your rock, shield, strength?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 6:13-18, John 14:25-27 (ESV) 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.

Sermon OutlineChrist calls us to a path of peace through a world where many slip, stumble and fall.

Jesus’ way is different from the world
John 14:27 “not as the world gives do I give to you”
We are disciples learning as we go
v26 “The Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and bring to remembrance…”
v25 “I have spoken while I am still with you”
We have a helper who is with us
v26 “… the Father will send in my name”
v27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.”
v27 “Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

Prayer of ConfessionOur generous God, you do not give as the world gives. You do not treat us as our sins deserve. We have been people of enmity, hostility and alienation. We have been takers, not givers. We have promoted division. Our hearts have not been at peace; we have suffered the pains of selfish thoughts and desires. We have acted as though we know what is best, only to demonstrate our foolishness. We have not had proper regard for you or others. Forgive our many sins. We thank you for mercy and grace. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What is the gospel of peace? Why is peace so central in the Christian message?
How does Jesus give differently than how the world gives?
What are some indicators we don’t have peace?
How does God teach and lead His people today? What should Christians do to mature in light of what Jesus says in John 14:25-27?
If Jesus gives us peace, why do we still experience difficulties?
How does temptation always serve to separate us from God? How can understanding temptation ready us to hold to Christ’s ways of peace where they seem insufficient?
What assurance comes with the message that peace is given to us by Jesus? How can you get more grounded so you experience more that peace?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 6:13-18, Philippians 3:3-11 (ESV)13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.

3 For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh— 4 though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. 7 But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. 8 Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith— 10 that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.

Sermon OutlineThere is a form of righteousness that not only advances good, but uniquely protects what is vital.

Confidence in the Flesh
v3 “put no confidence in the flesh”
v4 “if anyone thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more”
v9 “a righteousness of my own that comes from the law”
Righteousness from God that Depends on Faith
v10 “that I may know him… becoming like him in his death”
v8 “gain Christ”
v9 “be found in him”
v8 “surpassing worth of knowing Jesus”
v3 “worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus”

Prayer of ConfessionHoly and righteous God, we all fall short of your glory. In our efforts to attain a form of righteousness apart from you we have only proven how flawed we are. Our best efforts are insufficient, yet we are arrogant. Our failings have isolated us in shame, instead of driving us to you. Forgive our misplaced confidence. Forgive all sin and unrighteousness. We are not claiming confidence in ourselves; we are trusting in Christ and his righteousness. Cleanse and renew us by the power of your Holy Spirit so that we may glory in Christ. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What struggles are part of life in the “flesh”? What are key ways you try to address (fix, control, manage, etc.) these struggles?
Why are disciplines, commands and effort necessary? How are they insufficient? What can’t they do?
What gives you confidence you are ok? When you feel secure, what is your foundation?
Is righteousness a weapon or armor? When you are striving to be right, is it to stand firm, or to put others down?
How can you be right about many things, and yet not right with God?
How does Jesus reveal God’s righteousness? When you look at him, what do you see? What about God’s righteousness is put on display when Jesus is crucified?
How does faith put us “in Christ”? What is the nature of Christian faith that makes it powerful to affect genuine change in us?
How is the righteousness of Christ a protective covering for those who trust in him?
Why is knowing Christ of surpassing worth? What is so good about knowing Christ that everything else pales in comparison?
How can you live life in the Spirit, knowing and glorying in Christ, in contrast with life in the flesh where you have confidence in whatever “law” you have taken hold of (self confidence)? As you envision scenarios in your life, how are you being called to go into the world differently?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 6:10-20 (ESV)10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

Sermon Outline

Why do we need the belt of truth?
What does the belt of truth do?
Where do we get the belt of truth from?

Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, you created the entire universe to be very good. But the dark spiritual forces have tainted this goodness and make us doubt your goodness. Forgive us for believing these lies. We easily succumb to the antics of the evil one. We confess that we fail to trust in your truths and promises. We need your belt of truth to secure in us what is true and good and beautiful. May your truths silence the whispers of the evil one. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
When have you questioned God’s character? What seeds of doubt have you struggled with?
What negative scripts have you received? Which ones may have you handed down to others?
Describe a time when you’ve been confident in the face of adversity. What helped you gain that confidence and stability?
How have you been able to apply God’s truth in situations when you’ve doubted and struggled in your faith?
What truth do you long to hear from others and from God?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 6:10-13 (ESV)

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.

Sermon OutlineLife is fraught with challenges and to stand firm we need:

Awareness
v11 “the schemes of the devil”
vv12-13 “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against…”
Armor
v11 “Put on the whole armor of God… able to stand…” (v13)
Strength
v10 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might”

Prayer of ConfessionOur mighty God: we are vulnerable, weak, and guilty of sin. We have not walked in the ways of Christ. We have not stood firm against temptation. We have failed to face the dark forces with courage and faith. We have fought with those we have been called to love. We have not trusted you. Forgive our many sins. Work your Spirit in us so we know the hope to which you have called us and have the strength to stand firm. We ask this in the name of Jesus, who secured salvation by defeating the powers of darkness. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How do you experience “wrestling” in life? What feels like a battle for you?
What are some attributes of the “schemes of the devil”? How can you tell when something more deeply problematic is at work? What forms of temptation are difficult for you?
How can you keep from becoming obsessed with evil? Why is it important to remain focused on what is good, and not solely on addressing what is bad?
How are the ways of Christ protective? Which teachings of Jesus strike you as particularly helpful for navigating life?
Why is it important to put on the “whole” armor of God? What makes it “God’s” armor?
Where is strength evident in the life of Jesus? What did Jesus uniquely face and accomplish?
How is being strong in the Lord different from being a strong person? How does God’s strength work in the lives of His people?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 6:5-9 (ESV)5 Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, 6 not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, 7 rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, 8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free. 9 Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.

Sermon OutlineLife in Christ transforms people so everything they do, including work, is shaped by their walk with God.

Who and How You Serve
v6 “doing the will of God”, v7 “service with a good will as to the Lord”
v5 “with a sincere heart”, v6 “from the heart”
v5 “as you would Christ”, v6 “as bondservants of Christ”
Why This Needs to Be Clarified
v9 “there is no partiality with him”
v6 “not by the way of eye-service, as people pleasers”
v9 “stop your threatening”
What the Gospel Changes
v5 “your earthly masters”, v9 “their master and yours is in heaven”
v8 “whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord”

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, you rule the heavens and the earth with wisdom, authority, and love. We admit our failings. We have arrogantly strived to be masters, neglecting the way of service, and eager to have others serve us; yet we do not even have mastery over ourselves. Forgive us our manipulation, and all acts superficially meant to impress and please others. Forgive our threats and every effort to coerce. Forgive our sinful partiality. We thank you that Christ came to serve, and in taking the form of a servant, laid down his life for us. We appeal for grace and look to him in faith. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What does it (or can it) look like for you to do your particular work “rendering service with a good will as to the Lord?” What in the teachings and pattern of Christ can shape how you do whatever work/responsibilities you do?
If you have a boss/supervisor, what principles direct how you relate to that supervisor? How would God have you interact with their instructions/requirements? How should the way of Christ frame how you relate in the various kinds of interactions you have with your supervisor?
If you do not report to anyone in the work you do, how does (or can) service to God shape the way you do what you are responsible for?
Why is it a problem to work as a people-pleaser, in order to be seen? What corrections do you need in this area?
Why do people in positions of authority threaten those under them? Is this something you do? Why? How can you improve?
What difference does it make that all people are ultimately responsible to God?
How can faithfulness to God help you navigate a corrupt situation? What motivates you to be steadfast in doing good?
Do you believe that God will somehow return to you the good that you have done? Why or why not?
If you had complete confidence that in the future God will make things right, how would that change how you relate to difficult people? Navigate unfair situations? Manage your own discouragement?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Charles Drew
Sermon Series: Winsome Community

Romans 12:10, 12, 14, 17-21 (ESV)10 Outdo one another in showing honor… 12 Rejoice in hope… 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them… 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Sermon OutlineSermon Slide Deck

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 6:1-4 (ESV)1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), 3 “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” 4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Sermon Outline1. Our Responsibility as Children (v. 1-3)

[1] Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
[2] “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), [3] “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.”
Our Responsibility as Parents (v. 4)
[4] Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Our Responsibility as a Family (v. 2)
[2] “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise),

Prayer of ConfessionOur heavenly Father, you have brought us into this world to be in a family. Help us in our role as children to rightfully honor our parents. May we see them as gifts and not as burdens. Forgive us for believing the lie that we always know better than anyone else. You also gave us the gift of the local church to be our spiritual family. May we see that we are vitally connected to one another as fathers and mothers, and brothers and sisters. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
How do you understand the nuance between the command to obey parents and to honor them?
How have you seen the command to honor your parents lived out? How have you seen beautiful examples of this? Describe any struggles you have had to honor your parents.
In what ways can we grow in our understanding and practice of seeing our children as gifts from God? How can we see them as opportunities to invest in and nurture?
How can we assist the parents in our church community in the spiritual development of their children?
How can we cultivate a culture in our church where we see each other as spiritual family members?
How do God’s covenant promises that he will be our God and we will be our people provide the power and support for our church to be a spiritual family?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Easter

Psalm 49 (ESV)To the choirmaster. A Psalm of the Sons of Korah.

1 Hear this, all peoples!
Give ear, all inhabitants of the world,
2 both low and high,
rich and poor together!
3 My mouth shall speak wisdom;
the meditation of my heart shall be understanding.
4 I will incline my ear to a proverb;
I will solve my riddle to the music of the lyre.

5 Why should I fear in times of trouble,
when the iniquity of those who cheat me surrounds me,
6 those who trust in their wealth
and boast of the abundance of their riches?
7 Truly no man can ransom another,
or give to God the price of his life,
8 for the ransom of their life is costly
and can never suffice,
9 that he should live on forever
and never see the pit.

10 For he sees that even the wise die;
the fool and the stupid alike must perish
and leave their wealth to others.
11 Their graves are their homes forever,
their dwelling places to all generations,
though they called lands by their own names.
12 Man in his pomp will not remain;
he is like the beasts that perish.

13 This is the path of those who have foolish confidence;
yet after them people approve of their boasts. Selah
14 Like sheep they are appointed for Sheol;
death shall be their shepherd,
and the upright shall rule over them in the morning.
Their form shall be consumed in Sheol, with no place to dwell.
15 But God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol,
for he will receive me. Selah

16 Be not afraid when a man becomes rich,
when the glory of his house increases.
17 For when he dies he will carry nothing away;
his glory will not go down after him.
18 For though, while he lives, he counts himself blessed
—and though you get praise when you do well for yourself—
19 his soul will go to the generation of his fathers,
who will never again see light.
20 Man in his pomp yet without understanding is like the beasts that perish.

Sermon OutlineHow does the resurrection of Jesus make us wise? (vv1-4)

Where are you going?
v6 “trust in their wealth… boast…”, v13 “the path of… foolish confidence”
v14 “like sheep… death shall be their shepherd”
vv7-9 “the ransom… can never suffice”
Who can you count on?
v9 “that he should live on and never see the pit”
v15 “but God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol, for he will receive me”
What are you attaining?
v17 “his glory will not go down with him”
v14 “the upright shall rule over them in the morning”

Prayer of ConfessionSovereign Lord, our shepherd and redeemer: we thank you for the life you have generously given to us. We admit we are like sheep who have gone astray. We have trusted in fame and fortune. We have walked a path leading to death. We have suffered and caused suffering because of our foolishness. Our thoughts, words, and actions are corrupt. Forgive all our sins. Thank you for the good shepherd, Jesus, who laid down his life, and who leads us in paths of righteousness. We trust him for life, giving thanks to the glory of his name. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How can you tell if someone is living wisely?
What is your understanding of death? How much does mortality inform your priorities or choices?
Why do people seek fame and fortune? What is the appeal? What problems arise when fame and fortune become a person’s ultimate hope?
What do you fear? How does fear indicate the need for understanding or to have help that you can trust?
Do you need a guide in life? Who do you trust to inform you on how to live well? How do you know you can trust that person?
What does the Bible teach about Jesus that makes him trustworthy? How does his going before us into death convey to us the care, generosity, and love of God?
How does the resurrection of Jesus strengthen the case that he is worth following?
What does a wise orientation to success and achievement look like? What value is there in living well in this life?
How can the resurrection of Jesus make you wise? What do you understand differently, or what priorities or choices will change when you trust that life is given by God?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 5:22-33 (ESV)22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.

25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, 26 that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27 so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. 28 In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, 30 because we are members of his body. 31 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” 32 This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. 33 However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

Sermon OutlineThere is a profound mystery in the relationship between God and his people that can be pictured in a marriage where spouses are shaped by God’s redemptive work.

The profound mystery
vv30-32 “we are members of his body. ‘Therefore… the two shall become one flesh.’ This mystery is profound… it refers to Christ and the church.”
Imaging God in marriage
v23 “… even as…”, v24 “now as”, v28 “in the same way”
v28 “husbands should love their wives as their own bodies.”
v33 “…love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.”
Safeguards
v29 “For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church.”
v22 “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.”
In process with Christ
vv25-28 “Christ loved the church… that he might sanctify her… that she might be holy and without blemish.”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Lord and our God, we confess we have been unfaithful. We have not honored you with all that we are. We have not walked in your ways as we ought. We have failed to love. We have submitted only because of fear. We have tried to coerce. We have been selfish rather than sacrificial. We have been demeaning rather than respectful. We are guilty of sin. Forgive all our failings. We marvel at the profound mystery of your enduring steadfast love. Though our sins had separated us, you have dealt with our sin, making us one in Christ. We pray with thanks in his name. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What is your first reaction to the charge for husbands to love their wives, and wives to submit to their husbands?
In what ways is the relationship of Christ and his church like a marriage? In what ways is it not?
What can we learn about what marriage can be through understanding the redemptive story of Christ?
How can a marriage picture the redemptive story of the Bible? How can a married couple best live together as a sign pointing to God?
In what ways can the teaching about wives submitting become harmful? What are signs of unhealthy submission? What should (or can) spouses do when a marriage becomes very unhealthy?
How are love and respect responsibilities (rather than responses)? Why should Christians love those who are not acting lovably? Why should Christians remain respectful when relating to those who aren’t acting honorably?
What does it look like to relate to others with reverence for Christ? How does a relationship with Christ shape how we live out every other relationship?
Why is important to be shaped to do life with imperfect people? What do you need clarity on for how to relate to difficult people?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 5:15-21 (ESV)15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Sermon OutlineHow do you make the best use of time? (vv15-17)

Be Filled with the Spirit
v18 “do not get drunk with wine… but be filled with the Spirit”
Have Reverence for Christ
v21 “…out of reverence for Christ”
v20 “giving thanks always and for everything”
v19 “addressing one… making melody to the Lord with your heart”
v21 “submitting to one another…”

Prayer of ConfessionOur wise and compassionate Father, forgive us for our foolishness. We haven’t made the best use of our time. We have wasted it, and we have filled our time with things that dishonor you. We haven’t sought you fervently and haven’t walked in the Spirit. We have not lived with reverence for Christ. We admit to sinful thoughts, words and actions. Forgive us. Remove all that is corrupt in us, and fill us with your Holy Spirit. We give thanks to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How do you fail to “make the most of the time”?
Have you sought to be filled with the Holy Spirit? How? What have you done? What can you do?
Are there any substances in your life (drugs, alcohol, etc.) that shape you? What do you need to do to exchange them for the Holy Spirit?
How do you know if it is the Holy Spirit at work in you or some other spirit?
What stirs reverence for Christ in you?
How can you genuinely have a song of thanks in your heart? What can you do so that you are more thankful, even in challenging situations?
Why is it important to keep reverence for Christ primary as you relate to other people? How does this create the best context for submitting to one another?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 5:3-14 (ESV)3 But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. 5 For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not become partners with them; 8 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13 But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, 14 for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,

“Awake, O sleeper,
and arise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.”

Sermon Outline1. What undermines the Christian life (v. 3-7)

A life of self-indulgence and consumption
What demonstrates the Christian life (v. 8-14a)
Walking as children of light
What powers the Christian life (v. 14b)
Christ shining on you

Prayer of ConfessionOur heavenly Father, you created the world for harmony, flourishing, goodness, and beauty. In our sin, we have fallen to walk in darkness. Instead of centering Jesus, we put ourselves at the center of our lives. We consume, we indulge, and we seek our own pleasure, and at times at the expense of others. Forgive us for not seeing others as being made in your image. By the power of your Spirit, renew in us a commitment to walk in the light. Jesus, may the light and power of your resurrection shine on us today. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
How do you struggle with the self being the center of your life?
In what ways does our current culture value the self being the center? In what ways does it value putting others’ needs before your own?
The call to follow Jesus is one of self-denial. Why is this so hard? When have you seen beautiful examples of this?
Paul encourages the church to walk as children of light. What examples come to mind where you’ve seen this done well?
Our passage concludes with a verse from a spiritual hymn: “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” What about this hymn resonates with you? What promise does your soul need to hear and believe?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 4:17-5:2 (ESV)17 Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. 18 They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. 19 They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. 20 But that is not the way you learned Christ!— 21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, 22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.

25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. 26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and give no opportunity to the devil. 28 Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. 29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Sermon OutlineWe are learning and being formed by what we see - Jesus calls us to look at him so that what we see re-forms our whole way of life.

Not the Way
v20 “But that is not the way you learned Christ!”
v23 “be renewed in the spirit of your minds”
Seeing the Way
v32 “God in Christ”
5:2 “Christ gave himself up for us… sacrifice to God”
Walking in the Way
5:1 “imitators”
v24 “the new self, created after the likeness of God”
5:1-2 “as beloved children. And walk in love…”

Prayer of ConfessionOur kind, tenderhearted, forgiving Father, we look to you because in mercy you look at us with love. We confess we have sinned. We acknowledge that we have set our gaze on things that have drained us of life and love. We have been led by our corrupt desires. We have failed in our attempts at self-mastery. We have offended you and hurt others. Our shame has kept us in darkness, where we long to be seen but hide because of fear. Forgive us through Jesus who gave himself up for us, as a sacrifice to you. As we open ourselves to your love, fill us with it so it characterizes our way of life. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

If you reflect on your life, what have been the key shaping influences? Who or what did you look to with admiration? Did you consciously imitate anyone (person or group)?
Why is it unwise to uncritically embrace and act on your desires?
What does healthy discipline and effort look like? What problems arise when you try to impose order on your life and seek external restraints for self control or to attempt change?
Why is repeated and active looking to Jesus important for your own growth? What kinds of things should you be looking for or paying attention to as you read the Bible and reflect on who Jesus is?
How does Jesus reveal God?
How does Jesus portray what the ideal human being is like?
How can you deepen your awareness of God’s love for you? How can God’s love form and shape you?
What does it mean to “walk in love”?
How are you imitating Jesus?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 4:25-5:2 (ESV)25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. 26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and give no opportunity to the devil. 28 Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. 29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Sermon OutlineWe are called out of a corrupted life with corrupting words (v29) into a life of grace where our words build up.

The Hearts of People
v31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.
The Heart of God
v32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
5:2 walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us
The Heart of God’s People
v30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God
v32 kind… tenderhearted, forgiving
v29 as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Prayer of ConfessionOur compassionate Father, you know who we truly are, but you love us anyway. We try to hide our corrupt desires and thoughts. The troubles within us seep out through our words. You see into our hearts even if we restrain our lips. We confess our sins, those seen and unseen. Forgive us for every corrupting thing we have said. Forgive our slander, our insults, our gossip, our manipulations. Forgive us for grieving the Holy Spirit. May the good news announced by Jesus be the truth that grips our hearts. May your grace materialize in the things we say and do. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What kinds of statements do you restrain? What sorts of thoughts do you have that you know you should not articulate?
Why is it so hard to keep our deep feelings hidden when we speak? How does tone betray us?
What role does truth play in keeping communication clear? How does truth get manipulated? How can you be truthful without causing unnecessary harm?
Why is gossip and slander so damaging?
Do you see any corrupting talk in what the Bible records about the life and ministry of Jesus? What kinds of situations do we read about Jesus being in where he exists amidst corrupt people?
How does Jesus suffering to bring forgiveness reveal the heart of God? What does this say about the nature of God?
What is hard to believe about the gospel message? If God is truthful, why do we have trouble grasping that God really is kind to us?
How can what Jesus has done for you be more defining to your identity? Why is that one act of love and grace so crucial for us?
How can you deal with your hurts, resentments, ruminations, etc. within a new paradigm characterized, by God’s love, kindness, forgiveness and grace for us? What is needed to exist in periods of inner difficulty?
What can you commitment to that will help you be someone who consistently speaks so that others are built up?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Sermon OutlineGod’s generosity reorients our taking-instinct within a life where work is done with a view towards sharing.

Stealing
“Let the thief no longer steal”
Laboring
“but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands”
Sharing
“so that he may have something to share with anyone in need”

Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious God, we need forgiveness. Greed is at work deep within us. We are guilty of taking what does not belong to us. We rationalize the wrong we do. We have not lived with regard for the needs of others. We are sorry for our sins. We appeal to you for mercy. Open our eyes to grasp the depth of your generosity to us. May we be so formed by what Jesus has done that we become more like him in all that we do. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What forms of stealing do you encounter (and are tempted by)? Within your social world, what opportunities to take what doesn’t belong to you are there?
Which desires lead towards theft? What rationalizations enable people to go through with stealing?
What do you most deeply need in life? Can you take, earn or achieve the things you most need?
Do you believe God can give you what you most deeply need? Do you trust that God has given or will give what you need?
How does Jesus’ gift of himself help those who are weary to find rest in him?
What role does hard work play in our world? What makes work frustrating? What is needed for work to be productive?
Why is truth and honesty needed for labor to be productive?
Do you enjoy sharing?
How can the goal of sharing shape our work and the choices we make? How does it shape our motivations?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Sermon OutlineProcessing anger (v26) within the context of the Christian life means we don’t need to be ruled by our anger or act on it in ways that are harmful.

Be Angry
Do Not Sin
v27 “give no opportunity to the devil”
Do Not Let the Sun Go Down on Your Anger

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father, you are slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Forgive us. We have failed to trust you and walk in your ways. We have made you and others angry by our misdeeds. Much of our anger is because of our own sin. There have been times we were right to be angry but wrong in how we acted. We marvel at your love and patience. We thank that you don’t treat us as our sins deserve, and that your steadfast love changes us. Help us to live worthy of the calling to which we have been called. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How comfortable are you with anger (your own, or engaging people who are angry)? Should anger be avoided? Utilized?
What are some examples of anger that is just, good, important? What are examples of anger that is problematic?
Why is anger dangerous? What kinds of things can go wrong when we are angry?
How do we get stuck in anger? In what ways does it become progressively harder to let go of anger over time? As it takes root in our lives, what other problems do we have to deal with?
How is God’s anger an aspect of God’s love? What are some implications of His being slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love?
Jesus loved us by going to the cross. How does this make it possible for sinners to receive God’s love? How can those who believe in Jesus find genuine help with their anger from him?
What can you do to process your anger? What priorities do you need to make for your prayer life? What person can you interact with to help you sort through an issue that involves anger?
How can you utilize the question “what am I defending?” to understand what you are experiencing and what the wisest next steps are?
How can you be more shaped by what Jesus has done for you than by what anyone else has done for/to you? What are some ways the whole of your life can be reformed by deepening in life in Christ?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 4:17-25 (ESV)17 Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. 18 They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. 19 They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. 20 But that is not the way you learned Christ!— 21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, 22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.

25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.

Sermon OutlineVerse 25

Put away falsehood
Therefore, having put away falsehood
Speak truth
let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor
for we are members one of another
Receive truth
Therefore, having put away falsehood

Prayer of ConfessionOur heavenly Father, you are the source of all that is true, good, and beautiful. In our sin and brokenness, we have distorted your truth, goodness, and beauty. By the power of your Spirit, help us to put away falsehood. May we turn away from the lies that promise life apart from you. May we turn to the truth that is found in you and may this truth be constantly on our lips, fill our minds, and satisfy our souls. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
What are some examples of truths that are slightly distorted? How has “putting away falsehood” looked like for you?
In what situations do you find speaking the truth easy? Difficult? What do you tend to do naturally?
How have you seen speaking truth be used to for the building up of others? How have you seen speaking truth be used for self-gain?
What truths from God do you need to receive and hold onto?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 4:17-24 (ESV)17 Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. 18 They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. 19 They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. 20 But that is not the way you learned Christ!— 21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, 22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.

Sermon OutlineThe invitation into the life of God includes putting off a way of life characterized by false righteousness and holiness, and learning the way of Christ as a renewed person.

Righteousness
v24 “in true righteousness”
Holiness
v24 “and holiness”
Godliness
v24 “the new self, created after the likeness of God”
v23 “be renewed in the spirit of your minds”
v20 “that is not the way you learned Christ!”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, you are holy and righteous. We are not. We sometimes insist we are. At times we arrogantly believe we are. We boast, we judge, we rationalize, we manipulate. Our thoughts and actions betray corruption within. Forgive us all of our sins. Cleanse us from unrighteousness. Sanctify us and renew us. Thank you for your kindness to us through what Christ has done on our behalf. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How can a desire to be right become problematic?
How do you know you are valuable? What do you look for, point to, or hold on to, to evaluate whether or not you are special or have worth?
What does Jesus say or do that opens your heart to God? How can you connect with God so the corruption within you has a place to go and be dealt with, and the life of God can come in to bring health within you?
How does “godliness” work? How do you live a godly life? How can you grow in true righteousness and holiness?
What role can Sunday worship at church play in the organization of your life? How does time and space get reoriented when your week begins with a gathering that is set apart by God for a special purpose? What mindset would help you engage worship in a more meaningful way?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 4:17-32 (ESV)17 Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. 18 They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. 19 They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. 20 But that is not the way you learned Christ!— 21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, 22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.

Sermon OutlineLife with God is needed to renew every area of our lives.

Corrupt Deceitful Desires
v22 “former manner of life… corrupt through deceitful desires”
v18-19 “due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous…”
Darkened Understanding
vv17-18 “… futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding…”
Renewed Life With God
v18 “alienated from the life of God”
v24 “… the new self, created after the likeness of God…”
v23 “be renewed in the spirit of your minds” (v32 “tenderhearted”)

Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, we desperately need your help. We don’t want hard hearts. We don’t want to be ruled by corrupt desires. We don’t want minds that are darkened in their understanding. Our thoughts and actions betray us. We have pursued what you have forbidden. We have acted without regard for our neighbor. We have developed greater skill in justifying ourselves than in living justified lives. Forgive us our sins. Teach us the way of Christ. Work your gracious Spirit to soften our hearts, renew our minds, and bind us to you. Have mercy on us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How can you tell when someone is alienated from the life of God?
What are examples of corrupted desires? How can good desires become problematic?
How do our desires deceive us?
What difference does faith in God make in our thinking? Do Christian beliefs have influence to shape all of our thoughts? Is thinking as a Christian different in any way than thinking as a non-Christian?
What has Jesus done that makes a deep difference within those who believe in him? How are desires renewed? How is thinking renewed?
How can Christians change how they experience and relate to problematic thoughts? How can Christians serve God while problematic desires remain? What helps?
Why is it important to thoroughly embrace the life God calls us to? Why is halfhearted commitment insufficient? What is attractive or compelling about fully embracing this new life?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 4:4-16 (ESV)4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7 But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. 8 Therefore it says,

“When he ascended on high he led a host of captives,
and he gave gifts to men.”

9 (In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? 10 He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) 11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

Sermon OutlineA healthy church…

receives gifts. (v. 7-10)
uses those gifts properly. (v. 11-13)
uses those gifts together. (v. 14-16)

Prayer of ConfessionJesus, in all your richness you gave. You gave us forgiveness, freedom, salvation, reconciliation. You also gave each of us gifts to be used to honor you. Help us to steward these gifts properly. Forgive us for the times when we used these gifts to serve ourselves, to make our names great, to advance our agendas. Humble us to remember that these are gifts that have been given, not earned. May the love of Jesus continue to fuel our desires to serve you, your church, and our neighbors. Give us wisdom to use our gifts to bring greater unity and health in our church, so that the witness of Jesus would be beautiful to the watching world. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
What are the characteristics of a healthy church? What examples have you seen and/or been a part of?
What are the gifts that you believe Jesus has given to you? How have you used them in the context of the church?
How have you experienced the reality that the church is joined together and growing together?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 4:1-6 (ESV)1 I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all..

Sermon OutlineWithin our broken and fractured world, God joins us together, calling us into life with Him.

The Source of Unity
v4 “just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call”
vv5-6 “one Lord, one faith… one God and Father of all…”
v4 “There is one body and one Spirit”
The Task of the Unified
v3 “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace”
v2 “humility… gentleness…patience… love”
The Way of Union
vv1-2 “urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility…”
v1 “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, who is over all, through all and in all: have mercy on us. We are broken. We are divided. Instead of responding to your call we have walked away, insisting on our own ways. We have been proud, harsh and impatient. We have failed to love as we ought. Forgive us. We thank you for our one Lord, Jesus Christ, whose body was broken for us. We are one living body joined by one Spirit with one hope. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Where do you see division in the world? How are you feeling or experiencing disconnection?
Why is it so hard to find unity? How are Christians one (or meant to be one) without losing individuality or diversity?
How do we maintain the unity of God’s people? What is necessary?
Are you eager to see God’s people be unified? Is this a conviction you have? Why or why not?
What does it mean to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called”?
Why are humility, gentleness and patience necessary?
What is the source of your worth as a human being? How should God’s call change how you view yourself?
How is the possibility of what God calls us to hopeful? How can that hope energize us?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series:

Mark 13:32-37 (ESV)32 “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come. 34 It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his servants in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to stay awake. 35 Therefore stay awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morning— 36 lest he come suddenly and find you asleep. 37 And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake.”

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Advent

Matthew 2:1-12 (ESV) 1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:

6 “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.’”

7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.

Sermon OutlinePeople seeking “life” should watch for how God leads them, because when brought to Christ they find joy.

Wise men
vv1-2 “wise men from the east came… “Where is he….? we saw his star ...”
Scribes/chief priests
vv5-6 “They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet…”
Herod
vv3-4 “When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled...
vv7-8 “…search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.”
Jesus
v6 “for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel”
v12 “…being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed…”
vv10-11 “…they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly… they saw the child… they fell down and worshiped him… they offered him gifts…”

Prayer of ConfessionOur sovereign God, forgive us. We are wanderers unable to see what is all around us. We continually fail to recognize your presence and provision. We ignore your leading. We assume we know more than we do. We put ourselves in your place and try to orient the world around us. Who is gracious as you are, coming for the very people who have wandered from you? Thank you for sending Jesus into the world. Thank you for being a shepherd who calls us, leads us, and protects us. We come before you in worship, in the name of Jesus. Grant us joy this Christmas. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What are you searching for in life?
How does God work through circumstances? What cautions do we need to exercise when trying to interpret what we are seeing and experiencing?
What role does the Bible play for anyone seeking God?
What can you do if you are seeking but not finding?
Why is sincerity important for seeking God? Why does seeking God need to be personal, and not just an exercise in gathering information?
How is Jesus the key help for people seeking God? What difference does his coming make?
Does your life with God have joy in it? How can that joy deepen and become more consistent?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Advent

Matthew 1:18-25; 2:13-18 (ESV)18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:

23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
and they shall call his name Immanuel”

(which means, God with us). 24 When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, 25 but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus.

2:13 Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” 14 And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt 15 and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt I called my son.”

16 Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah:

18 “A voice was heard in Ramah,
weeping and loud lamentation,
Rachel weeping for her children;
she refused to be comforted, because they are no more.”

Sermon OutlineThe Christmas story is the beginning of Jesus fulfilling all things and points us to where we begin to find fulfillment.

A Complex Story
v15 “this was to fulfill what the Lord has spoken by the prophet, ‘Out of Egypt I called my son’.”
A Painful Story
vv17-18 “then was fulfilled… weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children…”
A Remarkable Story
vv22-23 “this took place to fulfill… the virgin shall conceive… call his name Immanuel… ‘God with us’.”
vv21, 25 “called his name Jesus”

Prayer of ConfessionOur wise and compassionate God, the Christmas story is astounding. We understand so little. We assume the worst of you, our world and ourselves. We have failed to trust you. We have blamed you for the consequences of our own failings. We have not turned to you when the world and the people in it have failed us. We suffer emptiness, cynicism, anxiety, regret and confusion. Forgive us. Thank you that Jesus came into this complex world and faced the pain of it. Thank you that he did what we fail to do. Thank you that he brings the fulness of you into our lives. This Christmas, help us to know with greater depth the power of your presence. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What are some ways the birth of Jesus is a beginning? What starts to change with his arrival?
How are you impacted by the complexities of life? How often are you able to discern what God is doing in your life (or in the world)? How often do you have a sense God is with you?
Why is it helpful to see stories of suffering in the Bible? What conclusions can you draw from the violent events that surrounded the birth of Jesus?
What does the unique conception (“conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of the virgin Mary”) of Jesus tell us about him?
How are our lives different if God is with us? How can you increase your awareness of God being with you? What can you do differently because God is with you?
Is there something you need to devote time to praying about where you ask for and look for how God has been, or is with, you? Is there something difficult in this season that would benefit from setting aside time to seek the Lord about?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Lessons & Carols

6 “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.’”

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 3:14-21 (ESV)14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Sermon OutlineWe need spiritual power so we must ask God for it.

Power
vv16-17 “he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith”
Knowledge
v18 “may have strength to comprehend…”
v19 “to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge…”
Love
v17 “that you, being rooted and grounded in love”
v20-21 “…able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,to him be glory in the church…”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, have mercy on us. We are weakened by sin. We are discouraged because of our failures and the failings of the things we have taken hold of. With confusion we don’t see you or comprehend your love, though it is broad, long, high and deep. We thank you that you do abundantly more than we ask or think. We pray for forgiveness. Make known to us the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge. Strengthen us with your Spirit. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What makes someone strong?
Why is strength desirable?
How does faith in Jesus make a person stronger?
What mistakes do Christians make in regards to power?
How does comprehending God’s power and love help us?
How does the love of Christ surpass knowledge? What does it meant to know something that is bigger than what we can understand?
How do we become filled with the fulness of God? What role does prayer play in this?
How does the cross show us the breadth, length, height and depth of God’s love?
How do you root yourself and ground yourself in the love of Christ? How does the life of God, through the Spirit, work into your life when you do this?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 3:1-13 (ESV) 1 For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles— 2 assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace that was given to me for you, 3 how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have written briefly. 4 When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. 6 This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

7 Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power. 8 To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God, who created all things, 10 so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. 13 So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory.

Sermon Outline

The mystery of the gospel was hidden (v. 1-5)
The mystery of the gospel has been revealed (v. 6-9)
The mystery of the gospel goes out (v. 10-13)

Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, we confess that we can be blind to the mystery of the gospel. While you have made the gospel radiant, we turn to other things that captivate our attention. We also confess that instead of bringing to light the wonder of the gospel, we veil it, we muddy it, we make the gospel less persuasive through our words and actions. Forgive us for not stewarding the message of the gospel well. Forgive us for hoarding the gospel to ourselves and not sharing it with our neighbors. Remind us, O God, that the gospel is the power of salvation that bridges divisions across gender, age, culture, ethnicity, class. Renew our church to be the vehicle by which your manifold wisdom might now be made known. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Describe how the gospel was revealed to you. In what occasions did the gospel make more sense? Was it a journey over time? Were there specific and particular moments of clarity?
Imagine being a Gentile person receiving this message from Paul that the gospel is for you, and that you are no different from your Jewish neighbor. How might you imagine receiving this message?
In what ways have you seen the gospel not revealed, but is veiled, particularly by other Christians? How might we avoid making the gospel unpersuasive to others?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 2:11-22 (ESV) 11 Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands— 12 remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15 by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. 17 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

Sermon OutlineWe grow with others (v21) in a community where God’s Spirit is present (v22).

Joined Together
v12 “remember… you were… separated… alienated… strangers… having no hope and without God in the world.”
v14 “dividing wall of hostility”
v16 “reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility.”
v18 “For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. “
Growing Together
v19 “no longer strangers and aliens, but… fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God”
vv20-21 “in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord… built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, we draw near because Jesus made access possible. We confess our sins. We who were once far off, still try to keep our distance. We who were strangers, still try to hide so that we will not be fully known. We have not killed the hostility in us. Forgive us. We marvel that Jesus bore the hostility, being killed for us. May the peace he has brought make its way deep into us. May the love with which you have loved us grow in us so that your love between us evidences the peace of Christ and power of your Spirit. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What makes connecting deeply or meaningfully with people challenging?
Have you formed bad relational habits? Is there anything you can change simply with a commitment to try things differently that could facilitate better connections with people?
How does spiritual immaturity make people vulnerable to conflict? Why are we prone to hostility?
What is different about how Jesus lived in our fallen world, and with how he faced hostility?
How does God as Father, Son and Holy Spirit create new possibilities for how we relate to God?
What are some implications of the church being a dwelling place for God by the Holy Spirit?
How does a church grow together? What do we do, and how do we do it, so that everyone participating matures?
In what ways do healthy churches become a chief means for God’s work in the world?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 2:1-10 (ESV)1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Sermon OutlineGood works are the way of life for those joined with the God who works good in them.

Ruinous Work of People
v1 “you were dead in the trespasses and sins...” (v10 “we are”)
v3 “among whom we all once lived”, v8 “this is not your own doing… no one may boast”
Creative Work of God
v5 “even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ”
v7 “the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ”
Beautiful Work of God Through People
v10 “we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works”
v10 “that we should walk in them”

Prayer of ConfessionOur God, you are rich in mercy. We confess our trespasses and sins. Were it not for the immeasurable riches of your grace we could not bear to look at our failings. It is true: we have broken commands, rebelled, and been unfaithful. All of us have failed. All of us fall short. We ask for forgiveness. We turn to you because of the kindness you have shown us in Christ Jesus. We bring nothing for which we can boast, but through faith we take hold of the grace you have extended to us. May the Holy Spirit cleanse us of all sin and produce the fruit of good works in us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Why do you do good things?
Why do you do bad things?
How does a critical spirit effect your choices and behaviors?
How does entitlement effect your choices and behaviors?
What are some ways the riches of God’s grace are displayed? How does God’s grace connect with the story of your life?
Why is kindness an important component of God’s grace?
What are some ways being joined to Christ changes a person?
Why are good works a worthy goal?
What gospel points are useful to remember when you are provoked to action? How does your identity, goals, and beliefs shape your choices? How can growing faith help change some of your patterns?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 2:1-9 (ESV)1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Sermon Outline

Why we need grace (v. 1-3)
What grace does (v. 4-7)
How grace works (v. 8-9)

Prayer of ConfessionMerciful God, we confess that we do not always acknowledge our true spiritual state apart from you. We fail to see that much of our world and ourselves is marred by the stain of sin. There are so many unseen forces around us that bring ruin on ourselves and those around us. Too often we have lived in the passions of our flesh and carried out the desires of our body and mind. We are more spiritually dead than we like to admit. But while our sins are many, your mercy is more. Even when we were dead in our trespasses you made us alive together with Christ. By grace we have been saved. You have joined us to Christ and we are now truly alive. Jesus, thank you for saving us by your works. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How do you respond to Paul saying that we were dead in the trespasses and sins? Is this offensive to you? What are we to think of this?
In what ways do we “follow” the culture, or the devil, or our passions?
How have you experienced the mercy of God?
Paul describes how we are in union with Christ in his resurrection, ascension, and session. What difference does this make in your life?
Why is grace so powerful? What examples in your own life can you point to?
What about God’s grace do you find wonderful? Why might it be difficult to receive? Why do we find the need to boast in our own works?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 1:15-23 (ESV)15 For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, 16 I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, 18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might 20 that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.

Sermon OutlinePersonal knowledge of God brings remarkable changes to our lives.

Connection Between Wisdom and Revelation
v17 “may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him”
v15-16 “I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints”
The Role of the Heart
v18 “having the eyes of your hearts enlightened”
vv19-21 “… he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places…”
v16 “remembering you in my prayers”; v17 “may give you”
Cosmic Integration
vv18-19 “that you may know… the hope… inheritance… greatness of his power”
vv22-23 “and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness…”

Prayer of ConfessionFather of glory, we need the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of you. We confess our discouragement, apathy, and cynicism. We have been guilty of contempt. Our faith has been shallow. Our love has been insufficient. We know about you, but it doesn’t always seem like we know you. We have not integrated deeply in the body of Christ. Forgive us. Enlighten our hearts. Show us the hope that is in you. Thank you for all that is ours in Christ. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What does it mean to know God? How do you come to know God, or grow in that knowledge?
Why is trust needed to make faith more than just an assent to information?
What evidence is there that human hearts are naturally hard and filled with darkness? How does God change our hearts?
What makes the promises of scripture (hope, riches, power) seem distant? How can your knowledge of these things bring something of the reality of them into your present experience?
How can the church cultivate life together? How can our common connection to Christ help us to experience more of the good things that are ours in Christ?

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Audio RecordingNo recording available this week.

Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 1:1-14 (ESV)1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,

To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus:

2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4 even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 5 he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8 which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9 making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10 as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.

11 In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, 12 so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. 13 In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

Sermon OutlineGod’s plan (v10, 11) for the world is overwhelmingly gracious (vv7-8).

In love (v4)
v3 “who has blessed us”, v7 “through his blood”
v4 “chose us in him before the foundation of the world”
v5 “to himself” (v10 “unite all things in him”)
He predestined us (v5)
v5 “for adoption” (v7 “redemption”)
v1 “Paul, an apostle… by the will of God”
To the praise of his glorious grace (v5)
vv7-8 “riches of grace… lavished upon us”
vv13-14 “sealed with the promised Holy Spirit… the guarantee of our inheritance”
v12, v14 “praise of his glory”

Prayer of ConfessionMerciful God, we should be holy and blameless, but we are not. We do not treat other people with grace. We have been harsh, judgmental, arrogant, fearful, cruel. Our words and actions expose our distorted thoughts and feelings. We lack faith, and so we question your actions and motives. We confess we have trouble understanding how you have loved us. Lord, despite our unworthiness, you have redeemed us. You have set your love on us, not because we deserve it, but because you love. We thank you for your grace and generosity. We are assembled before you in Christ, so we pray this in his name. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Does God have a plan for history? How would you know? If you think there is a plan, what does it involve?
What difference does it make that God acts with love? How does believing that shape how you interpret events and circumstances? How does not believing it shape how you interpret events and circumstances?
If God’s love is parental, what are implications for understanding how God relates to us and we relate to God?
Why does the Bible tell Christians that God predestined them?
What benefits come with being adopted by God?
How does grace work? What makes it so good? What makes it so unique?
What difficulties do people have with grace? How can grace be misunderstood?
What role does the Holy Spirit play in connecting you to God’s plan?
How should the presence of the Holy Spirit in you change you? What characteristics should you have that would signal to others that God is present in you?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 1:1-14 (ESV)1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,

To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus:

2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Sermon OutlineUnion with Christ is how all the blessings of God come into our lives and world.

How we know we need it
v3 every spiritual blessing: v4 holy and blameless; v5 adoption; v7 redemption, forgiveness; v9 making known the mystery of his will; v11 inheritance; v13 salvation
How it comes to us with power
v13 “the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation”
v10 “a plan for the fullness of time”
How it reshapes our lives
v3 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ”
vv7-8 “the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us”
v13 “you heard the word of truth… and believed…”

Prayer of ConfessionBlessed are you, the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. You lavish grace upon us, but we confess we have not been faithful to you. All of us have gone astray. We have been divided against you and one another. We have failed to take responsibility for our guilt and the consequences of our choices. Forgive us. We thank you that you have sent Jesus in the fulness of time. You have redeemed us, adopted us, forgiven us, revealed yourself to us, and given us all things. You have saved us. Thank you for the mercy that is ours in Christ. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How does sin cause division? What are examples of ways sin disconnects things?
If someone were to look at how you spend money, what you think and talk most about, what brings you joy, or what worries you, what would they say your deepest desires are? What do you want most?
Ephesians 1 claims that every spiritual blessing comes to us from the Father, in Christ. What is in view? How does this work?
Why does the story of Jesus, fulfilling all things in the particular ways that he did, have power to change hearts?
What does it mean to be united to Christ? How should this union change your life?
How should Christians live in a city like New York? What does it mean to be in the city, but faithful in Christ? How does being rooted in Christ create the possibility of living a life that is good for the city?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang

Hebrews 11:30-31 (ESV) 30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days. 31 By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.

Sermon Outline

Faith in weakness looks foolish (v. 30)
Faith in weakness is costly (v. 31)
Faith in weakness demonstrates true strength

Prayer of ConfessionOur living God, we desire to be strong and competent because we fear being and appearing weak. We confess that we seek salvation and rescue through our own strength and not through yours. We also admit that we are tired, weary, and exhausted from trying to be strong. Thank you for the promise from your Word that you give strength to the weary and increase the power of the weak. May we trust the words of Jesus when he tell us that his grace is sufficient for us, for his power is made perfect in weakness. May we boast all the more gladly about our weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Where/when is strength valued, and where/when is it overvalued?
Where/when is weakness seen as a liability and to be avoided? When do you feel the need to compensate for your weaknesses?
In what ways does the Christian call to be weak appear utterly foolish? When have there been times when you’ve had difficulty embracing this call to be weak?
How have you experienced the costliness of being weak as a Christian?
When have you seen someone embrace weakness that demonstrated strength?
How might God be calling you to trust that his grace is truly sufficient for you, especially in your weaknesses?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: The 4 Relationships

Psalm 8 (ESV)1 O Lord, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory above the heavens.
2 Out of the mouth of babies and infants,
you have established strength because of your foes,
to still the enemy and the avenger.

3 When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
4 what is man that you are mindful of him,
and the son of man that you care for him?

5 Yet you have made him a little lower than the heavenly beings
and crowned him with glory and honor.
6 You have given him dominion over the works of your hands;
you have put all things under his feet,
7 all sheep and oxen,
and also the beasts of the field,
8 the birds of the heavens, and the fish of the sea,
whatever passes along the paths of the seas.

9 O Lord, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!

Sermon OutlineGod’s work in us creates new possibilities for how we relate to all things in the world.

Like God in the world
v5 “you have made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor.”
v6 “You have given him dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under his feet”
God in the world
v2 “Out of the mouth of babies and infants, you have established strength because of your foes”
Hebrews 2:8-9 “At present, we do not see everything in subjection to him. But we see him… namely Jesus…”
More of God in the world
vv3-4 “When I look at your heavens… what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?”
v1,9 “your name in all the earth”

Prayer of ConfessionO Lord, our lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens. Lord, we confess we fall short of your glory. We have foolishly exchanged your glory for images resembling the things you have made. We have worshipped and served created things. We have attempted to have others worship and serve us. We have sinned against you, and against others. Forgive us. Lord, who are we that you are mindful of us? Who are we that you would care for us? We don’t deserve your grace, but we thank you for Jesus who has redeemed us. As we trust him for forgiveness, we remember that our greatest joy is to walk with you and to glorify you in the world. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What makes human beings unique?
What are implications for how to live in the world given the wisdom and power we have?
Why do human beings misuse their wisdom and power?
What are ways we look for glory in the things that have been made? How do we seek glory from the world?
Why did people have trouble seeing the glory in Jesus? If you were there during Jesus’ earthly ministry, what would have struck you as admirable in Jesus?
Jesus is “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15). How does Jesus show us what God is like? How does Jesus show us what people should be like?
What should we notice as we take look out into the world? What can we learn from all the things that are disordered (not yet in subjection to Christ)? What can we learn from the things that are aligned and good?
Do you believe God is mindful of you and cares for you? How does the death of Jesus convey to you a deeper sense of God’s concern for us?
How can you do all things for God’s glory? Think about your life and what occupies your time. What does it mean to glorify God in everything? How do you know if you are doing it wrong?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: The 4 Relationships

1 John 4:7-21 (ESV) 7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. 10 In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.

13 By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 16 So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. 17 By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. 18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 19 We love because he first loved us. 20 If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. 21 And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.

Sermon OutlineGod’s love comes to imperfect people who then relate to others out of what they have received from God.

Imperfect People
v18 “fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love”
v20 “he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.”
Perfect God
v7 “love is from God”
v10 “not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”
v18 “perfect love casts out fear” (v13 “he has given us of his Spirit)
v19 “We love because he first loved us.”
Perfecting Relationships
v16 “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us.”
v21 “this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.”
v17 “…love perfected with us… as he is so also are we in this world.”

Prayer of ConfessionOur loving Father, we admit we have fallen short in loving others. We have not loved you as we ought. Our love is imperfect. Our faith is weak. Forgive every sin, whether in thought, word or deed. Fill us with your love and cast out the fear within us. Abide with us and help us to become more like you. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What kinds of interactions with others help you become a better person? What kinds of interactions have a negative impact on you?
How are consequences different from punishment?
In what ways do you punish others? What fears do you have that others will punish you?
Why are boundaries and consequences necessary for healthy relationships?
How does Jesus make God and His love visible? Why is this important?
How does the punishment Jesus endured on the cross bring God’s perfect love to us? How do we receive this love? How can this love become a reality you experience more deeply?
What does it look like to love others with the love that God has poured into you? How do you do it?
Is there someone you are having difficulty loving right now? How can you turn to God for help with that situation?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: The 4 Relationships

Matthew 6:19-34 (ESV)19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, 23 but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!

24 “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 28 And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, 29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

34 “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

Sermon OutlineWhen God is your Father your “self” is restored and renewed.

Where is your heart?
v21 “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
v24 “No one can serve two masters… he will hate the one and love the other...”
vv25-34 (v28 “Why are you anxious…?”)
v33 “But seek first…”
How are your eyes?
v22 “The eye is the lamp of the body… if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light…”
Who provides for you?
v25 “is not life more than…?”
v32 “Your heavenly Father knows...”

Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, you are generous, patient and faithful. Forgive us and help us. We admit we have not sought you first. We have not loved you as we ought. With terrible judgment, we have over-valued the things you have made. With confusion, we acted as if our desires could be satisfied by what the world treasures. With regret, the things we have devoted ourselves to have burned us out. We admit the darkness within us. We ask for forgiveness. We look to you, our Father in heaven, because life is found in you. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Where is your heart? What have you set your heart on? What is your hope, your source of meaning, identity, etc.?
What does it meant to store up treasure in heaven? How do you do it?
How are your eyes? What are some of the main things you see? What words describe how you typically experience the world?
What kinds of difficulties within you are affecting your relationships and experiences? What are you trying to suppress that inevitably comes out?
What about God as our “father” is hard for you to grasp? What is the most helpful title or concept of God for you?
Why does Jesus urge his followers to understand God as a father? How does this change things?
Why can you trust God with the details of your life? What does the Bible teach, or what do you know is true of God that should provide assurance that you can trust God consistently?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: The 4 Relationships

Psalm 115 (ESV)1 Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory,
for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness!

2 Why should the nations say,
“Where is their God?”
3 Our God is in the heavens;
he does all that he pleases.

4 Their idols are silver and gold,
the work of human hands.
5 They have mouths, but do not speak;
eyes, but do not see.
6 They have ears, but do not hear;
noses, but do not smell.
7 They have hands, but do not feel;
feet, but do not walk;
and they do not make a sound in their throat.
8 Those who make them become like them;
so do all who trust in them.

9 O Israel, trust in the Lord!
He is their help and their shield.
10 O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord!
He is their help and their shield.
11 You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord!
He is their help and their shield.

12 The Lord has remembered us; he will bless us;
he will bless the house of Israel;
he will bless the house of Aaron;
13 he will bless those who fear the Lord,
both the small and the great.

14 May the Lord give you increase,
you and your children!
15 May you be blessed by the Lord,
who made heaven and earth!

16 The heavens are the Lord's heavens,
but the earth he has given to the children of man.
17 The dead do not praise the Lord,
nor do any who go down into silence.
18 But we will bless the Lord
from this time forth and forevermore.
Praise the Lord!

Sermon OutlineGod is personal, so when we come to know God (not just have knowledge about God) we experience renewal in our lives.

A Personal God
v1 “steadfast love… faithfulness”
v3 “he does all that he pleases”
Lifeless gods
v4 “Their idols… the work of human hands”
v8 “Those who make them become like them”
The living God
v12 “the Lord has remembered us”
vv9-11 “trust in the Lord!”
vv17-18 “the dead do not… but we will bless the Lord…”

Prayer of ConfessionNot to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness. We admit our lack of love and faithlessness. We have not trusted you. Instead, we have trusted in ourselves, the things of this world, and the work of our own hands. Our thoughts, feelings, words and actions evidence our sin. Forgive us. We remember your steadfast love and faithfulness, and pray that you will remember us with mercy. May Jesus, who reconciled us to you by taking on flesh and suffering death, receive glory even as we ask to receive forgiveness. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Is relating to God easier or harder than relating to people? Why?
Does it trouble you that God does whatever he pleases? Does it encourage you? Why?
What do you think are the top 5 things people look to in place of God (for help, significance, status, comfort, etc.)? What are the idols of our place/time? Which of these are you most drawn to?
In what ways do we become like the things we devote ourselves to? Do you see any symptoms in your life of having become like something you have trusted and devoted yourself to?
Do you want God to remember you? Why is God’s steadfast love and faithfulness so crucial to our drawing near to God?
How can the work of Christ, who laid down his life so that we are reconciled to God, bring life to our souls? What things should we continually remember to thrive?
If you had a firm conviction that God will bless you, would that motivate you to live more sacrificially for his glory? What motivates you (or would motivate you) to seek God’s honor above your own?
What are the marks of a healthy relationship with God?

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Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Psalm 36

Psalm 36 (ESV)1 Transgression speaks to the wicked
deep in his heart;
there is no fear of God
before his eyes.
2 For he flatters himself in his own eyes
that his iniquity cannot be found out and hated.
3 The words of his mouth are trouble and deceit;
he has ceased to act wisely and do good.
4 He plots trouble while on his bed;
he sets himself in a way that is not good;
he does not reject evil.

5 Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the clouds.
6 Your righteousness is like the mountains of God;
your judgments are like the great deep;
man and beast you save, O Lord.

7 How precious is your steadfast love, O God!
The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
8 They feast on the abundance of your house,
and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
9 For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light do we see light.

10 Oh, continue your steadfast love to those who know you,
and your righteousness to the upright of heart!
11 Let not the foot of arrogance come upon me,
nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.
12 There the evildoers lie fallen;
they are thrust down, unable to rise.

Sermon OutlineGod’s steadfast love (v5,7,10) makes a crucial difference in our formation, outlook and experience.

In the Darkness
v1 “no fear of God before his eyes”
v2 “his iniquity cannot be found out and hated”
v1 “transgression speaks…”
In the Shadow
v7 “the children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings”
v9 “in your light do we see light”
v10 “continue your steadfast love to those who know you”

Prayer of ConfessionHow precious is your steadfast love, O God! We assemble before you in need of mercy, forgiveness, light and life. We have foolishly welcomed darkness to cover our shameful acts and feelings. We have ignored your voice and let transgression speak. We have been ruled by our desires. We have put ourselves before you and others. Forgive our many sins. Jesus came into the darkness so that your light would shine. We draw near, in the shadow of your wings and pray that in your light we would see light. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What thoughts do you have that you would horrify you if people discovered them? What things do you do that you hope no one will see?
What is the relationship between our failure to connect with the reality of God’s greatness, and our desires having too much power in our lives? Are those things related? How?
What are differences between healthy and unhealthy fear? How does a lack of healthy fear of God foster the growth of unhealthy fear in us?
How is God a refuge? In what ways can we turn to Him for help?
How is life “shadowy”? What difference does it make to be in the shadow under God’s wing?
Why is the steadfast nature of God’s love essential for navigating difficulties in life?
How can you be more steadfast in love?
How does God’s light help you see things differently? What kinds of things could you discern more of if you live attuned to God’s light?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Psalm 36

Sermon OutlineContact with evil will pull you down, but with God’s steadfast love you can rise.

Pulled Downward
v1 “Transgression speaks to the wicked deep in his heart”
v2 “He flatters himself… that his iniquity cannot be found out…”
v3 “the words of his mouth are trouble and deceit”
v4 “he plots trouble while on his bed”
v4 “he does not reject evil”
Lifted Up
v12 “the wicked are unable to rise”
v6 “man and beast you save”
vv8-9 “… the abundance of your house… drink from the river of your delights… fountain of life”
v5, 7, 10 “your steadfast love”

Prayer of ConfessionYour steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Yet we are brought low by sin. We have not held your steadfast love as precious. We have instead taken hold of what our corrupt hearts thought would satisfy us. We have done what we know we should not. We have excused it and tried to justify it. We have not rejected evil. But you, O Lord, have not rejected us. We pray for forgiveness, as we trust in Jesus who came giving living water. Revive our thirsty souls. Continue your steadfast love to us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

Where do you see “negativity” in your life? How often are your thoughts critical, hopeless, self entitled, etc.? Are you able to contain your negative thoughts or do they come out through your words (with complaints, criticism, sharp tone, etc.)?
How do you hide or avoid your problems? What are some reasons you don’t deal directly with your problems?
What helps you connect with God’s greatness? What practices or experiences help stir your soul in ways that are good?
What are implications of God’s love being “steadfast”? How can this be a help to you?
How does Jesus provide living water? How do we receive or participate in the life-giving work of Jesus?
What can you do, when your soul feels thirsty, to make sure you pursue what satisfies and avoid what harms?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Psalm 27

Psalm 27 (ESV)1 The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
of whom shall I be afraid?

2 When evildoers assail me
to eat up my flesh,
my adversaries and foes,
it is they who stumble and fall.

3 Though an army encamp against me,
my heart shall not fear;
though war arise against me,
yet I will be confident.

4 One thing have I asked of the Lord,
that will I seek after:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord
and to inquire in his temple.

5 For he will hide me in his shelter
in the day of trouble;
he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;
he will lift me high upon a rock.

6 And now my head shall be lifted up
above my enemies all around me,
and I will offer in his tent
sacrifices with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make melody to the Lord.

7 Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud;
be gracious to me and answer me!
8 You have said, “Seek my face.”
My heart says to you,
“Your face, Lord, do I seek.”
9 Hide not your face from me.
Turn not your servant away in anger,
O you who have been my help.
Cast me not off; forsake me not,
O God of my salvation!
10 For my father and my mother have forsaken me,
but the Lord will take me in.

11 Teach me your way, O Lord,
and lead me on a level path
because of my enemies.
12 Give me not up to the will of my adversaries;
for false witnesses have risen against me,
and they breathe out violence.

13 I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord
in the land of the living!

14 Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart take courage;
wait for the Lord!

Sermon OutlineIntentionally develop the practice of inquiring of God (v4).

Questions
v7 “be gracious… answer me!”
v11 “teach me your way”
v14 “wait for the Lord”
Reflection
v4 “one thing I have asked”
v6 “and now my head shall be lifted up”
v13 “I believe that I shall…”
v1 “whom shall I fear?

Prayer of ConfessionOur wise and loving God, we are assembled this day to seek you. We confess our negligence, our laziness, our foolishness. We have made choices without having inquired. We have done what we know is contrary to your ways. We have acted out of fear and anger, and have failed to act out of love, truth and mercy. Forgive every sin. Renew our hearts. Grant us mercy. Teach us your way. We believe we shall see your goodness because you have revealed it in Jesus Christ. Help us to see your grace more this day. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

How do you discern God’s will? How do you approach decisions to make good choices?
What do you find hardest about inquiring of God?
What questions do you have for God right now? How will you work out these questions with God?
What are some reasons you are not asking God about certain things?
What next steps do you need to take to form better prayer habits?
Why is it important to reflect on God’s character, the big picture of His redemptive plan, His specific kindness to you, etc.? How can meditating on these things frame your life and give a foundation for moving forward in it?
Do you believe you will see the goodness of the Lord? Where are you currently seeing it, or where have you seen it in the past?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Ed Sirya
Sermon Series: The Love of God

1 Peter 1:22-2:3 (ESV) 22 Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, 23 since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God; 24 for

“All flesh is like grass
and all its glory like the flower of grass.
The grass withers,
and the flower falls,
25 but the word of the Lord remains forever.”

And this word is the good news that was preached to you.

2:1 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. 2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: The Love of God

Matthew 13:44-46 (ESV) 44 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls,46 who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.

Sermon Outline

The love of God is broad and wide
Farmer vs merchant
Stumbles upon the treasure vs seeking a treasure
The love of God is valuable
Both sell everything they own to secure the treasure
There is no cost too great to gain their prize
The love of God is relentless
We are God’s great pearl of value

Prayer of ConfessionAwesome and compassionate God, you have loved us with unfailing, self-giving mercy, but we have not loved you. You constantly call us, but we do not listen. You ask us to love, but we walk away from neighbors in need, wrapped in our own concerns. We condone evil, prejudice, warfare, and greed. God of grace, as you come to us in mercy, we repent in spirit and in truth, admit our sin, and gratefully receive your forgiveness through Jesus Christ, our Redeemer. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
What was your journey like to trust in Jesus?
Who are the people you long to be rescued by God? Who are the people that you struggle to believe can receive God’s mercy?
What are the “fine pearls” in your life? How would things be different if you saw them not as ends but as a means to see the ultimate value of God?
How do you respond to the fact that Jesus sees you as his ultimate treasure?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: The Love of God

Hosea 2:14-23 (ESV) 14 “Therefore, behold, I will allure her,
and bring her into the wilderness,
and speak tenderly to her.
15 And there I will give her her vineyards
and make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.
And there she shall answer as in the days of her youth,
as at the time when she came out of the land of Egypt.

16 “And in that day, declares the Lord, you will call me ‘My Husband,’ and no longer will you call me ‘My Baal.’ 17 For I will remove the names of the Baals from her mouth, and they shall be remembered by name no more. 18 And I will make for them a covenant on that day with the beasts of the field, the birds of the heavens, and the creeping things of the ground. And I will abolish the bow, the sword, and war from the land, and I will make you lie down in safety. 19 And I will betroth you to me forever. I will betroth you to me in righteousness and in justice, in steadfast love and in mercy. 20 I will betroth you to me in faithfulness. And you shall know the Lord.

21 “And in that day I will answer, declares the Lord,
I will answer the heavens,
and they shall answer the earth,
22 and the earth shall answer the grain, the wine, and the oil,
and they shall answer Jezreel,
23 and I will sow her for myself in the land.
And I will have mercy on No Mercy,
and I will say to Not My People, ‘You are my people’;
and he shall say, ‘You are my God.’”

Prayer of ConfessionMerciful God, you made us in your image, with a mind to know you, a heart to love you, and a will to serve you. But our knowledge is imperfect, our love inconstant, our obedience incomplete. Day by day, we fail to grow into your likeness. In your tender love, forgive us through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: The Love of God

1 John 4:11-21 (ESV) 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.

13 By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world.15 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.16 So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.17 By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world.18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.19 We love because he first loved us.20 If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.21 And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.

Sermon Outline

The love of God transforms our relationship to God
V. 15-16 – Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.
The love of God transforms our relationship to ourselves
V. 17-18 – By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.
The love of God transforms our relationship to others
V. 20-21 – If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.

Prayer of ConfessionForgive us, O Lord, for everything that spoils our witness for you; that we so often deny with our lives what we say with our lips; for the difference between our creed and our conduct, our profession and our practice; for any example that makes it easier for people to criticize your church or for another to sin. Grant unto us a true penitence for our sins. Grant that at the foot of the cross we may find our burdens rolled away. And so strengthen us by your Spirit that in the days to come we may live more nearly as we ought. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
How have you experienced God abiding in you? In what ways do you abide in God? In what ways do you struggle with equating “doing for” God with “being with” God?
John encourages us to know that perfect love casts out fear. How have you experienced the reality of this truth in your life? In what ways do you still long for this in certain areas of your life?
In what ways do you struggle loving people who are unlovable to you? How have you received God’s love to you when you know you’ve been unlovable?
What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series: The Love of God

Genesis 11:27-12:7 (ESV) 27 Now these are the generations of Terah. Terah fathered Abram, Nahor, and Haran; and Haran fathered Lot. 28 Haran died in the presence of his father Terah in the land of his kindred, in Ur of the Chaldeans. 29 And Abram and Nahor took wives. The name of Abram's wife was Sarai, and the name of Nahor's wife, Milcah, the daughter of Haran the father of Milcah and Iscah. 30 Now Sarai was barren; she had no child.

31 Terah took Abram his son and Lot the son of Haran, his grandson, and Sarai his daughter-in-law, his son Abram's wife, and they went forth together from Ur of the Chaldeans to go into the land of Canaan, but when they came to Haran, they settled there. 32 The days of Terah were 205 years, and Terah died in Haran.

12:1 Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. 2 And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

4 So Abram went, as the Lord had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. 5 And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their possessions that they had gathered, and the people that they had acquired in Haran, and they set out to go to the land of Canaan. When they came to the land of Canaan, 6 Abram passed through the land to the place at Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. At that time the Canaanites were in the land. 7 Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.” So he built there an altar to the Lord, who had appeared to him.

Sermon OutlineA Promising Love…

Seeks us out
12:1 – The LORD said to Abram…
Knows us through and through
12:1-3 – to the land that I will show you…I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great…in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.
Reminds us of his promises
12:7 – Then the LORD appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.”

Prayer of ConfessionEternal and merciful God, you have loved us with a love beyond our understanding, and you have set us on paths of righteousness for your name’s sake. Yet we have strayed from your way; we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, through what we have done and what we have left undone. As we remember the lavish gift of your grace, O God, we praise you and give you thanks that you forgive us yet again. Grant us now, we pray, the grace to die daily to sin, and to rise daily to new life in Christ, who lives and reigns with you, and in whose strong name we pray. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
How have you experienced the love of God?
Do you resonate with any aspect of Abraham’s story?
When have you felt as though you might not be worthy of God’s love?
How have you struggled with striving for your own sense of worth? Have there been times when you’ve instead settled for status quo?
When have you experienced reminders of God’s love for you?

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Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim Chang
Sermon Series:

Acts 6:1-7 (ESV) 1 Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. 2 And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5 And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. 6 These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.

7 And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.

Sermon OutlineEach of us has varying degrees of status, influence, power, and privilege. But what matters is if we’re using these things rightly.

The Danger of Power and Privilege
Verse 1: a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution
The Healthy Use of Power and Privilege
Verses 2-3: And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples... Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.”
The Beautiful Outcomes
Verse 7: And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.

Prayer of ConfessionMost holy and merciful Father, we confess to you and to one another, that we have sinned against you by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart and mind and strength. We have not fully loved our neighbors as ourselves. We have not always had in us the mind of Christ. You alone know how often we have grieved you by wasting your gifts, by wandering from your ways. Forgive us, we pray you, most merciful Father; and free us from our sin. Renew in us the grace and strength of your Holy Spirit, for the sake of Jesus Christ your Son our Savior. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?
Describe the kind of influence, status, power, and privilege you have regardless of magnitude. Where is this evident and how does it play out?
In what ways might you have privilege but it is not as prominent as you think? Have there been moments when your privilege was exposed?
Share an example of how you've experienced power used in healthy ways. If you're comfortable, share an example of how you've experienced power used in unhealthy ways.
How might God be calling you to continue Jesus' ministry of validation and repair? What might this look like for you?