Woodbury Community Church Sermons: Recent Episodes
Brian Schulenburg
This is the weekly podcast of Woodbury Community Church in Woodbury, MN. We are located at 2975 Pioneer Drive in Woodbury. If you'd like more information about our church, please contact us at (651) 739-1427 or e-mail us at woodburycommunitychurch@msn.com.
We live loud, crowded lives. There are so many
voices competing for our attention that
sometimes it is hard to hear and discern the
voice of God. This sermon will challenge us to
practice Biblical meditation, listening for God’s
voice, and to take a Sabbath so that God can
speak to us. Psalm 131 is one of the final Psalms
that King David wrote. He had been humbled,
shown grace, and was writing about the most
important things in life. This Psalm of Ascent
would have been sung by worshippers at
Solomon’s Temple as they prepared to enter
God’s holy house. (Psalm 131)
David should have known better. The chinks in his armor when he became king were about to be blown wide open. The man after God’s own heart was about to do something so egregious that it would have permanent consequences for his family. David’s sin with Bathsheba began with a compromise, was fueled by a spirit of covetousness, was followed by a cover-up and led to devastating consequences. David’s family was never the same. We can learn a lot from David’s failure. We all leave a legacy, will it be a godly legacy or a tragic one? (2 Samuel 11, Psalm 32:3-4)
God’s promise to David was fulfilled in part in the Old Testament, was fulfilled further in the New Testament, is being fulfilled further, even today, and will be ultimately fulfilled ultimately in eternity. The Davidic covenant is an eternal covenant and so important to understand. Understanding God’s covenant with David helps us understand His heart toward Israel and helps us understand the grace offered to all through His Son, Jesus Christ. (2 Samuel 7, Psalm 132)
For a guy who was called a man after God’s own heart, David did some pretty stupid things! Just after being anointed King over Israel, David started to show some chinks in his spiritual armor. The funny thing is, he couldn’t see it. Sometimes in our “spiritual highs” we forget some of the most basic principles of following Jesus. A relationship with Christ can’t be based solely on emotion. It also can’t be based solely on reason. Through David and Michal’s relationship we see the danger of both extremes, and recognize that in the end a life that exists to glorify ourselves brings misery. A live that is lived for His glory brings ultimate satisfaction. (2 Samuel 5-6, Psalm 106-107)
Scripture and personal experience teach us that our natural human condition is godless, unrighteous and hopeless. The only answer is Christ, His righteousness and His hope. (Psalm 14, Romans 3:9-24)
David was tired of living as a fugitive. King Saul’s relentless hunt for him had taken its toll. God had delivered David, used David as a tool in how to handle difficult people, and was building a group of faithful men who would follow David anywhere, but David couldn’t see the good things that we happening any longer. In desperation he flees to the land of the Philistines, living as a mercenary prince among them. It wasn’t God’s plan and would lead to disastrous results. This sermon will challenge us to submit ourselves to the plans of God, even when it appears like He isn’t working on our behalf. When we do, God is honored and we will reap the rewards that He has for us. (1 Samuel 27-30)
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the single greatest event that the world has ever witnessed. When Christ rose from the dead, He defeated death and Satan and sealed the victory for all who trust in Him. We give each other gifts at Christmastime to represent the gifts that God gave us in sending in Son Jesus into the world. At Easter time we can celebrate the gifts God offers us – salvation and the gift of the Holy Spirit. The gift of the Holy Spirit was given to the disciples Easter Sunday (John 20:22). That spectacular gift was only given to a few Old Testament saints, including young David (1 Samuel 16:13). 1 Samuel 16:7 tells us that God doesn’t look at the outside appearance but looks upon the heart. Big Idea: This Easter let God examine your heart. Accept His gift of salvation and experience the gift of the Holy Spirit. (1 Samuel 16, John 20:19-23)
The events that occurred on Maundy Thursday show two very different approaches to spiritual warfare. Jesus endured the trial of hell, taking Satan’s fury and God the Father’s wrath and turning it into our redemption. The majority of Christ’s disciples fled, cowering due to fear and caving into Satan’s scheme. This sermon will challenge us to learn from the example of Jesus. Big Idea: Courage roars loudest when we yield ourselves to God’s will, no matter the cost. (Luke 22:39-46)
Jesus came so that outsiders might have the opportunity to become insiders. He came so that we could be rescued from our sin and find a place in God’s family. He came to redeem mankind. The book of Ruth is not just a great love story; it’s a story of redemption and a story of courage. It took courage for Boaz to take Ruth as his bride. By understanding the themes of Ruth, we have a better understanding of Jesus, to whom the crowds shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Hosanna in the highest! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” Hosanna means, “Save.” And that’s what Jesus and Boaz do. (Ruth, Matthew 1:5, Matthew 21:6-11)
Joshua was now an old man. He had been given the privilege of leading the Children of Israel into the Promised Land. Now, just before his death, Joshua would give the nation a challenge. In Joshua 24, Joshua spoke on behalf of the Lord. He shared the history of the nation up to this point. Then he drew a line in the sand. Israel could choose to either follow God or not. Christian homes have always been marked as homes that serve the Lord. There is no denying the fact that godly parents have a radical impact on their children. This sermon will challenge us to be people who will follow Joshua and take the courageous challenge to follow God, no matter the obstacles, no matter the cost, no matter the consequences. (Joshua 24)
Joshua’s life reads like a spy novel. The spy, turned general, turned leader of the nation of Israel may have appeared on the outside to have all the courage in the world. But, even heroes get scared. Even heroes can be overwhelmed when the task before them is great. In Joshua 1:1-9, God gives Joshua instruction on courage, letting him know that He was with him wherever he went. Three times Joshua is commanded to be strong and courageous, for God would lead Israel to the victories He had promised. (Joshua 1:1-9)
The book of Deuteronomy is a book of transition. Whereas the book of Numbers took place over almost a 39 year period, the book of Deuteronomy takes place over a one month period before the Children of Israel finally make it out of the wilderness. The Exodus Generation has passed and the Wilderness Generation must learn the lessons that their parents failed to learn. In this book, the law is given once again as a reminder to live as a holy generation. Moses gives 5 sermons in this book. We’ll look at the lessons gleaned from his first sermon in Deuteronomy 1-4. Big Idea: If we don’t learn from the past, we’re doomed to repeat the same mistakes. Learn from other’s mistakes and cling fast to God. (Deuteronomy 1-4)
Years and years of wilderness wandering, wars and struggles were taking the toll upon the Children of Israel. The generation that had escaped Egypt was dying out. A new generation was taking root. The grumbling against God passed from one generation to another, and God’s wrath sent fiery serpents among the people. Many died. Only those who gazed upon a bronze serpent on a pole could live. God’s peculiar instruction to the people was a foreshadowing of our need for Jesus, who would be lifted up on the cross. Our sin is like the serpent’s bite. Sin, not dealt with, leads to death. We must receive the gift of salvation offered to us by Christ’s work on the cross for eternal life. (Numbers 21:4-9; John 3:14-18)
Even though God had promised Israel the Promised Land, when they came face to face with their mission, they ran in fear. Fear can be traced back to a lack of faith and trust in God’s sovereignty and plan for our lives. We need to see the example of Caleb and Joshua who saw and believed in God’s promises and be the Faithful who stare down fear and persevere. (Numbers 13-14)
So often, when we talk about holiness, we think
about individual holiness. When God chose the
Children of Israel as His people, He was calling a
nation unto himself. In Leviticus 18-20 God gave
the Children of Israel stern warnings not to
adopt the pagan practices of their neighboring
countries, or the countries that they would drive
out of the Promised Land. Sexual immorality
(chapter 18, chapter 20), not training our
children to honor God (chapter 19), not honoring
our neighbors, including the needy, the stranger,
the employee, and those with disabilities
(chapter 19), ignoring God’s laws (chapter 19),
engaging in witchcraft and sorcery (chapter 19),
not honoring our elders (chapter 19), engaging in
cultic activities (chapter 20), and ignoring the
call to holiness would destroy the nation.
Eventually Israel would lose God’s blessings.
America has enjoyed the blessing of God over
the years for the way the nation has honored
God. Could it be that we are on the path to losing
God’s blessing? (Leviticus 18-20)
Leviticus is the book that derails many people in
their attempt to read through the Bible in a year.
The laws seem old, archaic and have seemingly
nothing to do with Gentile believers. When
looked at as a whole, Leviticus gives us an
understanding of the holiness of God and the
expectation of holiness that God has for his
people. The first half of the book speaks about
the way to approach God and the second half
teaches us how to walk with God. Big Idea: God
has called you to live a holy (set apart) life.
Salvation is not the end of God’s plan for your
life, it’s the beginning of his call and purpose for
you. (Leviticus)
The Children of Israel were quick to depart from
law of God. When they became tired of waiting
and uncertain of God’s plan, they replaced God
with a golden calf. Sometimes we’re guilty of the
same type of thing without even realizing it. This
sermon will challenge us to strip ourselves of
anything that we are putting ahead of God in our
lives. (Exodus 32)
Moses was uniquely qualified to lead God’s
children out of slavery and into the Promised
Land. The problem was, Moses didn’t want the
job and didn’t feel that he was at all qualified.
Sometimes God calls us to do things that we
think are absurd. When God calls you to do
something, don’t argue. Follow His lead. Don’t
make excuses. There is no better place to be
than in the center of God’s will. (Exodus 3-4)
Using Jacob's struggle with God as our launching
point, we'll be talking about how life in Christ
gives every believer a brand new identity. We
are sons and daughters of God. We are accepted
by him. Our lives are filled with love and
forgiveness. We can call him "Abba" (Daddy).
After our own struggles with God, it's time to live
according to who GOD says we are -- not what
the whispers of our past say or the negative
voices to which we've always been forced to
listen! Just as God changed Jacob's name, we
receive a new identity when we come to Jesus. (Genesis 32:22-32)
Genesis 22 is one of the most misunderstood
texts in all of Scripture. Modern skeptics teach
that our God encourages infanticide, even
though Leviticus, Jeremiah, 2 Kings, Psalms and
Ezekiel all condemn the practice. God’s testing of
Abraham was a foreshadowing of the gift that he
would give us in Jesus. Our salvation required
God to make the ultimate sacrifice in giving His
son Jesus to us. Abraham’s faith and fear of God
are tested in this passage that reveals to us the
love of the Father for you and for me. (Genesis 22)
We’ve all been there. There are times in our life
where it feels like the world has turned against
us and we are all alone. Sometimes it even feels
like God has abandoned us. Job knew the feeling.
In Job 19, Job describes the desperation that
comes when it feels like prayers are no longer
answered, Divine guidance has been taken away,
your good reputation has been stripped away,
hope is gone, and the positive relationships that
you had with friends, family and God are no
longer present. In Job’s lament we find hints as
to how we can respond when we feel all alone. (Job 19)
Human history demonstrates our desire to
displace God, even becoming God himself. The
story of the Tower of Babel illustrates the
emptiness of our attempts to “make a name for
ourselves”. This text, more than a message on
remaining humble, moves us to increased trust
in God, his presence and his provision. (Genesis 11:1-9)
Good news always has and always will be worth sharing. The angels shared the greatest news the world had ever received with some shepherds outside of Bethlehem. They were an unusual group to share such news with and that they heard should give us hope! (Luke 2:8-20)
Six hundred years before Jesus was born the prophet Isaiah said that He would be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. The angels declared Jesus to be Savior of the world. Jesus is all of that and so much more! (Isaiah 9:6-7)
She is revered in the Catholic Church. She is
upheld in Scripture as the woman who was
blessed among women. What was it about Mary
that made her so special? Why did God choose
this young woman to be the mother of Jesus?
What does Mary teach us about hope? (Luke 1:26-56)
Why do bad things happen to good people? It’s a question as old as time. King Herod was threatened by the birth of Christ, for as Messiah, Jesus will one day rule over the nations. In one of history’s most barbaric acts, King Herod oversaw the genocide of Bethlehem’s baby boys and somehow through the pain hope was born. Very few knew it at the time, but God’s eternal plan was at work despite the evil all around. We too are surrounded by evil, tragedy, the effects of the fall, but God the Father, through Jesus, His Son and the power of the Holy Spirit is working for our eternal good despite all that the devil throws our way. (Matthew 2:1-18)
Scripture is absolutely accurate as it speaks about things to come. As early as Genesis 3, the Old Testament spoke about a coming Messiah who would rescue His people from their sin. Every Old Testament prophecy concerning the Messiah was fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. All of the prophecies about the future will be fulfilled as well. When we understand the purpose of biblical prophecy we can find great hope for the present as well as the future.
Has science ultimately proved the Bible to be irrelevant? How does what Scripture teaches about science reveal God’s truth? Doesn’t evolution disprove the Genesis account of creation? What about dinosaurs? Were dinosaurs mentioned in the Bible? If so, were there dinosaurs in the ark? This sermon will answer some of the most common questions about how Scripture and science relate to one another. (Genesis 1-2; 1 Corinthians 15:12-19; Psalm 19:1-4; Hebrews 11:1; Romans 1:20; Proverbs 21:24; 1 Peter 3:15; Job 41:1; Psalm 74:13; Job 40:15-24; Isaiah 14:29; Genesis 6:15; Psalm 53:1)
This sermon will take a look at some of the most common questions about prayer and fasting. How does prayer work? Why does God want us to pray? If God already knows the future, why should we pray? Does prayer change God’s mind? What about fasting . . . is it even relevant for today? Is fasting dangerous? Why would God want His children to fast? Are there different types of fasting and prayer? (Matthew 6:16-18; Various)
There is perhaps no subject in the Bible that creates as many questions among Christians as the topic of heaven. What will heaven be like? What will I do when I get there? How can there be no sadness in heaven if some I love won’t be there? Do I go to heaven immediately after I die or is there some sort of purgatory I have to go through first? What do I have to do to get to heaven? Is it true that once a person is saved they are always saved? This sermon will take a look at some of the most common questions about heaven and give a biblical response to those questions. (Revelation 21:1-8; John 14:1-4; Eccesiastes 3:11; Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:6-8; 1 Corinthians 15:43-44; 1 John 3:2; Revelation 15:2; Revelation 7:15; Revelation 19:9; Matthew 8:11; John 3:16-18)
Tim and Chris Gilmore, WCC Sponsored Missionaries
to Tanzania share what God is doing through the
ministry God has called them to with Wycliffe Bible
Translators in Tanzania.
In a beautiful and fitting end to his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus showed those who had gathered to hear Him teach how a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven lives. As He descended from the mountain, He met a man with leprosy, and healed him in the most unusual way. The man’s story is a beautiful picture of what all of us need Christ to bring to us. Pastor Brian preached this message in one-person dramatic monologue form. (Matthew 8:1-3)
There are many people who have grown up in church, served God in ministry, taken on vows of poverty and done all sorts of good things in the name of being a Christian that will spend eternity separated from God. Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:21-29 challenge all of us to take a serious look at our lives and how we are living them. Religious lip service and lifestyle are not enough. We need to examine our hearts and compare them to the standards that Jesus set down. A true disciple is devoted to God, devoted to His people and devoted to His mission. (Matthew 7:21-29)
Jesus continues His conclusion to The Sermon on the Mount with instruction to guard our hearts and our minds from false teaching. It’s never been popular to teach the hard truth of walking the narrow way, but God is much more concerned with our holiness than He is our happiness. The sermon will look at the characteristics of false teachers and what to look for in the places or people from whom you receive spiritual instruction. (Matthew 7:15-20)
Jesus began his stirring conclusion to the Sermon on the Mount by presenting His listeners with the eternal choice . . . walk the wide road that looks easy, but in the end leads to destruction, or walk the narrow road which begins with recognizing our spiritual poverty and need of the Savior and experience earthly trials on the road to everlasting reward. Everyone on planet earth chooses a road. Choose wisely. (Matthew 7:13, 14)
Wouldn’t it be great to be known as someone who is like Christ? Wouldn’t it be great if His character, His desires, His passions, His morals, His ethics, His love was what was seen in you? Matthew 7:7-11 is one of the most abused passages in Scripture. In it Jesus teaches us to be people who pray with persistence and confidence for the spiritual qualities that we lack in our lives. (Matthew 7:7-12)
One of the most common characteristics of human beings is a critical spirit. It is so natural for us to see the worst in others, while ignoring our own issues. In Matthew 7:1-5, Jesus gives us the cure for a critical spirit, teaching us how to handle our relationships with humility, gentleness, carefulness, patience and sympathy. (Matthew 7:1-6)
We live in a world that is full of stressed out, worried people. Wouldn't it be great if we could live lives that were immune to worry? In Matthew 6:25-34 Jesus reminds us that worry is the inability to see God for who He really is. This message will examine Jesus' three powerful illustrations that teach us the solution to worry. (Matthew 6:25-34)
The Day of Pentecost changed the history of the world. When it gets down to it, we need to understand the meat of our faith. (Acts 2:1-13)
Everything we do today, matters for eternity. God is passionate about his people living for him, and he desperately wants to reward those who follow his commands. This message will take a look at the biblical principle of storing up treasure in heavens. We’ll look at the economy of the Kingdom of Heaven and what we can do to store up a treasure that will never fade away. (Matthew 6:19-24)
Guest speaker, Clifford Christensen shares how we can live with certainty in uncertain times by trusting the same God that we trust with our salvation in daily stressors of life. (2 Timothy 1:8-14)
The Lord’s Prayer ends with the doxology of the Christian church. Most biblical scholars believe that this doxology was not spoken by Jesus but added to the text in the first or second century. It is appropriate that the Lord’s Prayer end with these words, for it focuses the Christian on Who God is – the One Whose kingdom is eternal, whose power is unmatched and Whose glory is forever. We are to be a people who bring glory to the One Who is glorious. (Matthew 6:13b)
Just when you think you’ve defeated it, temptation roars back like a lion. God has the power to help us through whatever temptation may come our way. Christians recognize that temptation comes from the evil one (the devil) and that God, who is more powerful than Satan and all the powers of hell can help us stand strong against whatever temptation comes our way. (Matthew 6:13a)
A special Sunday set apart to celebrate what God is doing around the world through our ministry partners.
Forgiveness is one of the hallmarks of the Christian life. Without the grace of God, our salvation would be impossible. But, forgiveness can often times be difficult to grant to others. The Lord’s Prayer challenges us to be people who forgive by praying for a forgiving spirit and it challenges us to be forgiven by praying for God’s forgiveness. When we pray for forgiveness it requires us to humble ourselves, recognize the sin in our lives and to turn from that sin to God. (Matthew 6:12)
Christians live lives of dependence upon God. The Lord’s Prayer encourages us to pray daily for our physical needs and our spiritual needs. Praying for our daily bread should always include a spiritual element to it. Christians hunger and thirst for righteousness as much, or more than we do our physical needs. (Matthew 6:11)
When we ask for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven, we are asking God to move the world to universal obedience (which will not happen until the end of history), and to move Christians towards obedience today. This means that we are asking that God’s will would be the supreme desire in our lives and that our obedience would be as it is in heaven – joyful and enthusiastic. (Matthew 6:10b)
Upon recognition of the One to Whom we pray, and honoring His name, Jesus’ prayer focused on the kingdom and rule of Christ. Prayer for the kingdom is part of the pattern of our prayer life. “Your Kingdom Come” recognizes the past, future and the present tense of the Christian life. This sermon will explore what it means to pray for Christ’s kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven. (Matthew 6:10a)
True followers of Jehovah have recognized throughout history that His name is holy. When we pray we are praying to the only One who is worthy of our worship. In his Greater Catechism, Martin Luther asked, “How is God’s name hallowed among us?” How we answer that question reveals what we believe about the God to Whom we pray. (Matthew 6:9)
Jesus’ instruction on prayer begins with a radical new concept. God, Creator of the Universe, Yahweh, is our Father. Nowhere in the Old Testament is God referred to as “Father” in a prayer. Christians have the right and the privilege of addressing God as Father. The fatherhood of God brings with it a number of wonderful implications. (Matthew 6:9)
One of the great temptations of all human beings is to look good in front of other people. God doesn’t want us to live our lives for the applause of others; He wants us to live our lives for His glory. Using examples of giving and prayer, Jesus showed His followers the folly of external acts of worship that are done to impress others rather than for God’s glory. (Matthew 6:1-8)
True children of God love their enemies and are perfect as their Heavenly Father is perfect. No one can live up to these types of demands unless the power of Christ is at work within them and the righteousness of Christ is placed upon them. (Matthew 5:43-48)
From the time of Moses the Jewish people had followed a law that said, "an eye for an eye a tooth for a tooth." Jesus showed His followers that is fine in a court setting but not in our relationship with others. Followers of Jesus repay evil with good. (Matthew 5:38-42)
For the fourth time in His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus begins a section of teaching with the words, “You have heard that it was said.” In this case, the teaching had to do with telling the truth. God’s chosen people, the Children of Israel, had become known as liars because of the way that they interpreted Old Testament law concerning using oaths. There is no place for falsehood in the lives of followers of Jesus Christ. It is just as easy to slip into falsehood today as it was back then. We need to be people who let our “yes” be “yes” and our “no” be “no.” (Matthew 5:33-37)
There was a great controversy regarding divorce and remarriage in the days of Jesus. It centered on the interpretation of a phrase in Deuteronomy 24:1, which stated the ground for divorce, “If a man marries a woman who becomes displeasing to him because he finds something indecent about here, and he writes her a certificate of divorce . . .” By Jesus’ day, the Pharisees (Israel’s religious leaders) allowed for divorce for almost any reason at all, based upon their interpretation of the meaning of decent in Deuteronomy 24:1. Jesus set the record straight by not only pointing out the prevailing misinterpretation of Moses’ law, but by setting a standard that allowed for divorce and remarriage for only three reasons; sexual immorality by one’s spouse who is unwilling to repent and live faithfully in the marriage relationship, a believer who is deserted by an unbelieving spouse and third when someone has been married and divorced before coming to Christ. (Matthew 5:31-42; Matthew 19:4-12)
Moms and Dads have so many responsibilities that are unique to being a parent. Perhaps the greatest task of any Christian parent is teaching our children the truth about God. How can parents make discipleship of children a priority in today’s hectic world? This sermon will give many practical ideas on how to help children cultivate a deep (Psalm 78:1-8)
Jesus is willing to heal your physical and emotional pain because he is compassionate—he cares about you and he loves you. Give God the parts of yourselves that are untouchable, unreachable, ugly or shameful. (Mark 1:40-45)
He may have initially doubted the resurrection of Jesus, but when presented with evidence, Thomas believed. Doubt is a common experience among those with faith. Thomas teaches us how to move past doubt into faith. When he made his decision he was all in! (John 20:24-29)
John stayed close to Jesus during Holy Week. The beloved disciple was there during the celebration of Palm Sunday, there at the cross, and was one of the first to believe in the resurrection. John teaches us to view Easter through eyes of faith. (John 12:12-19; John 20:25-27)
Peter was the Rocky of Jesus' disciples. The man was never one to show fear -- until it mattered most. What turned Jesus' most ardent follower into one who denied he even knew Jesus? It was fear. This same fear has the capacity to cripple any disciple. (Matthew 26:57-58, 69-75)
The sad story of Judas could be the story of many people today. He may have wanted to believe, but he chose not to, because Judas wanted Christ on Judas' terms, not on Christ's terms. What can we learn from the life of the only disciple who missed Easter? (Matthew 26:1-16)
Liz Goldstein from Jews for Jesus was our guest on Sunday, April 3, 2011. She presented, "Christ in the Passover."
Jesus lived in a culture that honored God with their lips but whose hearts were far from Him. In Matthew 5:27-30, Jesus cuts to the heart of what it means to live a life of purity. Those who live pure lives cut off sin at its source, and guard their heart (Matthew 5:27-30)
Jesus values relationships. When He is Lord it impacts how we think about and treat others. Disciples of Jesus recognize that they are no more important than anyone else. The high priority that Christ placed on relationships teaches us how to love others. (Matthew 5:21-26)
Jesus taught with an authority unparalleled before his time and since as the One who would fulfill the Law and the Prophets. Jesus teaches His followers about the type of righteous living that He requires, and we find that apart from Him, it's impossible. (Matthew 5:17-20)
Jesus is the Light of the world and He said that His disciples were the light of the world. How does that work? And, what is the light of the world? Light clarifies, light reveals and light brightens. (Matthew 5:14-16)
Christians are called to be the salt of the world. Salt purifies, it preserves, and salt seasons. Our lives should make people thirsty for Jesus. (Matthew 5:13)
So shocking was the last of Jesus' Beatitudes that He actually repeated it twice. Those who walk the Jesus way will experience persecution. How do we walk through persecution with faith, love for those who persecute us, and hope? (Matthew 5:10-12)
It is perhaps the most quoted of Christ's Beatitudes, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." Peacemakers are honest about the true status of peace, willing to risk pain in order to pursue peace, and actively sharing the Gospel (Matthew 5:9)
Pure in heart is the description that Jesus gives of the person that will see God. How can anyone have a heart that is pure? This sermon talks about what it means to be people of pure hearts, and how those people will see God both today and for eternity (Matthew 5:8)
True Christians are people who have been shown God's mercy and display it to others. Real mercy is compassion in action and displays itself in forgiveness. It is impossible to be a true follower of Jesus and not display mercy to others. (Matthew 5:7)
The old saying, "You are what you eat," is true in the physical sense, but it's also true in the spiritual sense. Jesus instructed His followers to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33). Chase anything else & we will be empty. (Matthew 5:6)
It is so hard to experience life this side of heaven and be truly satisfied. That is why it takes a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit to produce meekness in us. The meek, and only the meek, will inherit the earth. What does it mean to be meek? (Matthew 5:5)
It's one thing to intellectually recognize our spiritual poverty; it's an entirely different thing to mourn over sin. One involves the head and one involves the heart. Both are necessary for us to follow Jesus. We must understand what breaks God's heart. (Matthew 5:4)
Jesus' Sermon on the Mount is His most famous sermon. The Sermon on the Mount teaches us what it means to be citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. We can't be citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven without first recognizing our spiritual poverty. (Matthew 5:1-3)
We each need at least one Paul in our life (mentor/discipler), we each need at least one Timothy in our life (protage/disciplee), we each need "Barnabai" in our life (partners). (Acts 9:26-27)
What is it about Jesus that makes Him someone worth celebrating? Jesus Christ is our Savior, who died in our place, as The Gift that keeps on giving. He is our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. (Luke 2:8-18)
As he stood on trial before Pilate, Jesus reflected upon His birth, and why He came into the world. Jesus came so that we might know the truth. He is the truth. His birth was a cause for celebration, salvation and reconciliation. (John 18:33-38; Luke 2:8-18)
It's so easy to forget what really matters in the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season. This sermon challenges Christians with four truths that we need to hold onto this side of heaven. To experience joy, this Christmas season, we need to look up! (Colossians 3:1-4)
Week one in our Advent series deals with the joy of expectation. No baby in the history of the world has ever been looked forward to as much as Jesus, the Messiah. Prophesied for thousands of years, Jesus was and is the Messiah. He is the great light that people who walk in darkness need to see. (Isaiah 9:2-7)
How do we understand the struggles in our lives that are so deep that "just say no" solutions don't work? Particularly when it comes to struggling with sexual behavior, many of us are confused and discouraged that we can't maintain our commitment to purity. In this passage, we see Jesus' interaction with a woman had struggles of her own, and are confronted with a new way of seeing "Every man's - and many woman's - battle." (John 4:13-14)
From the magazines in grocery lines to billboards, from movies to television, from the Internet to the gym there is no escaping the fact that we live in a sex-saturated world. This sermon takes a look at what the Bible has to say about the gift of sex. (1 Thessalonians 4:1-8)
Every generation has people who start out following Jesus and then get lost somewhere along the way. Jude, the half-brother of Jesus wrote a letter encouraging people to stay strong, to persevere, and to show mercy to those who doubt. Jude's letter encourages us to be defenders of the faith who boldly and lovingly stand for Christ in our generation. (Jude)
It's hard to believe that a letter written to a 1st century slave owner can teach us so much as people living in the 21st century. The letter to Philemon is about forgiveness, redemption, and a true freedom. (Philemon)
Our Becoming Jesus' Disciples series ends with a sermon on making disciples. Every Christian is called to make disciples. Jesus' strategy for making disciples is awesome, but can't be lived out apart from the power of the Holy Spirit. Go make disciples! (Acts 1:8)
To be a disciple of Jesus is to do what Jesus did. Jesus was generous. Some people never give, even though they claim to be Christians. Some want to be generous but just don't know how. The story of the poor Christians in Macedonia teaches us about grace. (2 Corinthians 8:1-15)
Christians are and always have been people who serve others. When we serve others, we model our Savior, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who made Himself nothing, taking on the nature of a servant. This sermon includes testimonies from our service project. (Matthew 20:24-28)
This is the third session from the 2010 Upper Midwest Congregational Fellowship Rally with Larry Osborne. The rally took place at Woodbury Community Church in Woodbury, MN, October 8-9, 2010.
Larry Osborne's Saturday, October 9, 2010 address to the Upper Midwest Congregational Fellowship Fall Rally. This speech was given at Woodbury Community Church in Woodbury, MN.
The church is God's visible representation of Christ in every generation. St. Augustine once said, "He cannot have God for His father who does not have the church for His mother." In our independent culture, we minimize the importance of community. . . (Hebrews 10:25; Acts 2:42-47)
Disciples are people of prayer. There is no better example of prayer than Jesus himself. In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus didn't just give His disciples a rote prayer to repeat like some kind of mantra. He gave them a model that is revolutionary when applied. (Matthew 6:5-15)
This is the faith story of Matthew Bauman, presented at Woodbury Community Church on Sunday, September 19, 2010.
The Bible is like no other book ever written. It is the very breath of God, alive and able to change us. Disciples of Jesus read, understand and apply the Bible to their daily lives. This sermon challenges us to develop a plan to learn and live the truth. (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12)
Disciples are people of faith. They realize that faith is the gateway into a relationship with Jesus Christ. Faith is tied together with hope and seeking God. As we seek God, we find Him, and He changes everything. (Hebrews 11:1-6; Titus 3:1-7)
The opening sermon in our Becoming Jesus' Disciples series, this sermon takes a look at the irreducible core of Christianity. When it is boiled down to its core, the Christian faith is about loving God, loving others and making disciples as we go. (Matthew 22:34-49; Matthew 28:18-20)
The last sermon in our summer series, Summer in the Psalms, this message encourages us that no matter what season we need to praise God with all we've got. (Psalm 150)
There is a longing deep within every human heart for heaven. Psalm 47 is one of many places in Scripture where we get a glimpse of what heaven will be like. What you know about heaven on this side of eternity should impact how you live your life today. (Psalm 47; Various)
There is no excuse that man has when it comes to knowledge of the Holy. God has revealed Himself in His creation. The heavens declare the glory of God. This sermon examines the theological principle of general revelation and applies it to everyday life. (Psalm 19:1-6)
God's extreme character for faithfulness should lead us to 1) humble ourselves and turn to him, 2) testify to His goodness, and 3) surrender our will to Him completely. God demonstrates His love by being faithful to us even when we are not faithful to him (Psalm 126
God is in the business of creating clean hearts. When we confess our sins, God forgives. It took King David quite a while to confess his sin with Bathsheba, but when she did, God worked. Psalm 51 shows us what a true hear of confession involves. (Psalm 51)
We've all had the feeling - the desire to escape, the longing to be extricated from some painful difficulty or relationship, the urgency to be somehow lifted out of a problem that seems unsolvable. But when life flashes a 'no exit' sign, what can we do? We long to get away, yet God calls us to stay and experience his peace which transcends all understanding! (Psalm 55)
The Tiners share about how God has carried them through life's storms as they serve Him on the mission field. (Psalm 107)
Every human being is designed in the image of God, and as such that image contains a desire to adhere to the commandments of God. Psalm 119 is the song of our hearts when we recognize God's design for our life. (Psalm 119:73-142)
The heart of mankind is sick with wickedness. The only cure is Jesus, and the only way to keep the heart on a leash is with the Word of God. Psalm 119:1-73 is a declaration of how excellent God's Word is at helping men lead a holy life. (Psalm 119:1-72)
Every dad leaves a legacy. What kind of legacy will you leave for your children. King David sought to be a man whose heart was undivided in his love for God. Dads who leave the best legacy love God more than anything else in all the world. (Psalm 86:11)
Every man, woman, boy and girl to ever live on planet earth is precious in the eyes of God. We were created in the image of God, for His glory. Psalm 139 makes it so clear that we can choose to live for God or to reject God, but we can't escape God. (Psalm 139:13-18)
The first sermon in our Summer in the Psalms. This message sets the state for understanding what the blessed life is all about. David begins this collection of songs with a contrasting look at the wicked and the blessed. (Psalm 1)
Every Christian goes through periods of doubt and despair. The believers that John was writing to were no exception. John ends his letter with a passionate appeal for his readers to know that they belong to Christ. Are you 100% sure of your salvation? (1 John 5:13-21)
As John nears the end of his letter, he explains once more what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. In order to overcome the world, we need to place our faith in the Son of God. He then presents rock-solid evidence that Jesus is who He said He is. (1 John 5:1-12)
You cannot love God and choose to not love others. This sermon examines the demands that God's love places upon us. (1 John 4:7-21)
For a second time in his short letter, John addresses false teachers. The early church had many who came, professing to bring truth, but rejecting Jesus. This sermon examines how the Holy Spirit works in the believer's life to bring about discernment. (1 John 3:19-4:6)
The process of becoming like Christ changes our priorities. It means that God is priority number one. The Christian life is a life of engagement. It means that we engage the world and the world's issues, meeting them head on with the love of Christ. (1 John 3:11-18)
When we become Christians, Christ begins a new work in us. It's called sanctification, or the process of becoming like Christ. John challenges a discouraged church to fix their hope on Jesus, holding on to what they knew to be true about God. (1 John 2:28-3:10)
When people who used to follow Christ walk away it can shatter our faith. The believers that John wrote to faced such a circumstance, and with it a crisis of faith about what truth really is. This sermon challenges us to be discerning in our faith. (1 John 2:18-27)
As he hung dying on the cross, Jesus had compassion on a criminal who could do nothing to earn his salvation. All the man could do was throw himself on the grace of God, and Jesus lavished His grace upon him. You are one of two criminals. (Luke 23:39-43)
This sermon takes a look at Christ's prayer for His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane and what His desires are for His followers. (Brian Schulenburg)
Jesus was born in the shadow of a cross. He came to earth so mankind might be redeemed. The task ahead of Him was grave, but Christ faced it with the determination that He would rather die for you than live without you. Tetelestai - It is finished! (John 19:28-30)
In a profound mystery, Jesus Christ, God in the flesh, became sin so that we might become children of God. That task caused God to turn His back on God for the one and only time in history. This sermon examines the cost Jesus paid for our sin. (Matthew 27:45-46)
It had been quite a night for Jesus. Betrayal, abandonment, beatings, mock trials, persecution, fatigue and unimaginable pain accompanied Him everywhere He went. Despite His circumstances, Jesus ask the Father to forgive the crowd. We too are to forgive. (Luke 23:32-34, Philippians 2:5-8)
They are questions that every follower of Jesus Christ must deal with. Will I love God, or will I love the world? How do we live in this world without becoming consumed by its pull? How do we become people who truly crave the things of God? (1 John 2:15-17)
You are incredibly special. God created you in His image, for His glory, and with very specific purposes. If you are a Christian, God calls you to live like a believer. 1 John 1:5-2:17 teaches us what it takes to live as one who is redeemed. (1 John 1:5-2:17)
As Christians we have been saved so that we might walk in fellowship with Christ and each other. John introduces his letter by calling us to recognize the eternal, historical and personal Word of Life, Jesus Christ, and to recognize His call on our life. (1 John 1:1-4)
Paul finishes his description of ultimate love by describing a love that always protects, always trusts, always hopes and always perseveres. How do we learn to love like this? How do we as flawed people love with an "always love?" (1 Corinthians 13:7-8a, 13)
Reading the list of the markers of true love in 1 Corinthians 13 can be both a thrilling and terrifying exercise. Through God's power we can be a people who demonstrate love like this. This sermon breaks down the ten qualities of true love from 1 Cor. 13. (1 Corinthians 13:4-6)
Have you ever noticed how really religious people can do some really mean things? All we need to do to make God look really bad to the world around us is to act righteous without love. This sermon challenges us to be people who show God's love. (1 Corinthians 13:1-3)
He came onto the scene like a sudden storm and Elijah walks out of the spotlight in an even more amazing way. On his way out Elijah visits several locations that reveal the significance of finishing strong spiritually. Live life with the end in mind. (2 Kings 2:1-15)
Ahab is gone, but his son is not. Elijah has seen God faithfully display His power and His justice. The target on his life is still there. Ahaziah, the son of Ahab is now the king, and Baal-zebub is now worshipped. God's power delivers as Satan strikes. (2 Kings 1:1-18)
Ahab and Jezebel were some of the most wicked people to ever live. Their evil seemingly knew no end. But, God will only take so much wickedness before He is compelled to act. There is an end to God's patience. He always keeps His word. (1 Kings 21:1-29)
Ever feel worn out, depressed, or just plain defeated during what should be a season of rejoicing? Sometimes the aftermath of holidays or vacations, or long projects that have finally been completed can leave us feeling empty. Elijah was no exception. (1 Kings 19:1-21)
This sermon was preached by Youth Pastor Dan Boal on Sunday, December 27, 2009 at Woodbury Community Church, Woodbury, MN. (Genesis 15)
There are few things as exciting at Christmastime as the giving and receiving of gifts. This practice was demonstrated by the Magi on the occasion of their visit to the Christ child. This message will challenge us to give gifts to God that are fit for Him. (Matthew 2:1-12)
Mary and Joseph were just teenagers when God called them to be the caretakers of Messiah; Mary as his mother, and Joseph as his stepfather. There are beautiful lessons of faith and trust and obedience that we see in the actions of Mary and Joseph. Big Idea: God never promised that following Him would be easy. He did promise that it would yield eternal rewards. (Matthew 1:18-25)
Jesus wasn’t the only miracle baby talked about at Christmastime. John the Baptist was also a child that God miraculously brought into the world for the purpose of preparing the way for Jesus, the Messiah. This sermon will take a look at the lessons that we can learn from the life of John the Baptist, a man who lived his life with radical purpose, unwavering commitment, selfless service, and love for God. Big Idea: The single greatest purpose that any of us can have is pointing people to the Christ of Christmas. (Matthew 11:11, Various)
Zechariah is one of the most intriguing people in Scripture. The old man dreamt of the day that he would chosen to go into the temple of the Lord to burn incense. When his turn finally came, he got more than he bargained for. This sermon will be given in the first person, as a dramatic interpretation of the life of Zechariah. Big Idea: We are tools in the hands of Almighty God. Embrace your place in His story. (Luke 1:1-79)
Zechariah is one of the most intriguing people in Scripture. The old man dreamt of the day that he would chosen to go into the temple of the Lord to burn incense. When his turn finally came, he got more than he bargained for. This sermon will be given in the first person, as a dramatic interpretation of the life of Zechariah. Big Idea: We are tools in the hands of Almighty God. Embrace your place in His story. (Luke 1:1-79)
The genealogy of Jesus is full of less than perfect people. But, it’s the stories of some of these people that help us to see just how beautiful the grace of God is. Jesus’ coming into this family should give all of us hope about what can happen when God takes over a life. Big Idea: No one is beyond the grace of God. (Matthew 1:1-17)
The prophets of Baal and Asherah have been defeated, but the rain hasn’t fallen quite yet. Elijah moves from triumph to humility; praying and waiting expectantly for God to work. This sermon will look at the promises of God, and what God’s promises mean for us. (1 Kings 18:41-46)
Elijah lived in the shadows for 3 ½ years and then God spoke. Instructed to confront King Ahab and 450 prophets of Baal and 400 prophets of Asherah, Elijah obeyed. One man and God against a nation and their false gods. Who do you think is going to win? Big Idea: Never underestimate the power of one totally dedicated life. (1 Kings 18:1-2, 17-40)
God has worked in miraculous ways to sustain the young prophet and now, a widow and her son. Every meal that Elijah shared with the woman and her son must have been a sheer delight, for every meal was literally provided by the hand of God. And then, the unthinkable happened. The young boy became sick and died. What do you do when your world falls apart? The distraught widow makes it clear that she is upset at Elijah and at God. Why would God bring such calamity on her home after bringing such hope? Elijah responds with silence and then in prayer, taking the boy to the place that Elijah regularly met with God. Big Idea: When our world falls apart, and God is all we have, we have all we’ve ever needed. (1 Kings 17:17-24)
“God, why have you brought me to this place?” may very well have been Elijah’s question. As Elijah leaves the dry brook at Kerith Ravine, he is lead to the empty cupboard of a widow and her son. Had he mistook the call of God in his life? Was he making a crucial mistake? Why would God call Him to put a widow and her son in jeopardy? God was at work! And, God had a plan. Big Idea: God’s plan is often times surprising, but always worth following. Live a life of obedience and watch in amazement at what God does. (1 Kings 17:8-16)
Elijah bursts onto the scene, pronounces judgment upon the land and then just as quickly is told to hide away in the Kerith Ravine. Sustained only by the hand of God, Elijah the Prophet learns much about the character and nature of God. This sermon will challenge us to live our lives trusting God one day at a time. Big Idea: Where God guides, He provides. (1 Kings 17:1-7)
It was the worst of times, it was the very worst of times. The world to which Elijah was born was indescribably wicked. No king had ever displeased God as much as Ahab, the King of Israel. Like a lightning bolt that appears out of the blue Elijah comes onto the scene, from a nowhere town, with a insignificant pedigree, with a message from God for a wicked generation. Big Idea: God loves to use ordinary people to accomplish his extraordinary purposes. (1 Kings 16:29-33; 1 Kings 17:1)
Founding Pastor, Ron Hamilton returns to the pulpit of Woodbury Community Church, where he served for 29 years to preach a timely message entitled, "The Most Valued Relationship In Life." This sermon emphasizes appreciation for our salvation and the need to invite others into this relationship with our Lord Jesus. (1 Timothy 1:12-17; 2 Corinthians 5:11-16)
This sermon takes a look at the Lord's Prayer, stanza by stanza, and gives us eight practical lessons on prayer. (Matthew 6:9-15)
The holiness of God. To biblically define holiness (in regards to God) and talk about our response to His holiness, and how it does/should ultimately effect our relationship to and understanding of the Father? (Matthew 6:9; Revelation 4:8, 15:4; Isaiah 6:3)
A call to true friendship with God and one another, through the power of the love of Christ - the true Friend.
We live in the most opportune moment in history. With grace behind us and the coming of Jesus in front of us, these are the days of the Church, days for us to do work that changes the world. (Ephesians 1:3-10)
We live in a culture that finds saying no to oneself repulsive. We desire our every want and need immediately satisfied and anybody who gets in the way better watch out! It's no wonder the area of spiritual disciplines are anything but popular among today's Christian in America. The truth is that God wants us to exercise spiritual discipline in our lives. He wants us to spend time reading the Bible, praying, fasting, meditating, and memorizing His word. Of course, doing these things require us to say no to other things we may desire more. But the good news is that a life that exercises spiritual disciplines produces totally different fruit than a life following our selfish desires. It allows us to find what we are really searching for - inner joy and peace in the context of an intimate, loving relationship with our Creator. Nothing in this world is more valuable than this! (Galatians 5:22-23)
This is a recording of Troy Dobs' sermon that he gave on Monday, October 5, 2009 at Woodbury Community Church's Spiritual Emphasis Week. It is a poor recording due to a mic not working. This was picked up by another mic. The sermon deals with God's love in our most difficult times and how God uses trials and tribulations to mold us. (James 1:2-4)
The Bible, from beginning to end is a love story between God and us. This is the first of nine messages in a weeklong spiritual emphasis conference, geared at setting the table for us understanding God’s love and our response to that love. (Genesis 1-3)
Ravi Zacharias has asked, “How do we reach a generation of youth that hears with its eyes and thinks with its feelings?” Old methods no longer seem to work in bringing people to Christ. This message will address how the church must change to reach future generations with the Gospel. (1 Corinthians 9:16-24)
There are many reasons that people have for not becoming a Christian. This sermon will take a look at five of those roadblocks and how to help people hurdle over them. We’ll look at the religious roadblock, which Paul encountered at Mars Hill; the willful roadblock, which Paul encountered with King Agrippa, the Informational roadblock, which Phillip encountered with the Ethiopian Eunuch, the Intellectual roadblock, which Jesus encountered with Thomas and The Christian Roadblock which people deal with when they encounter inauthentic Christians. (John 20:24-29; Avts 26:20-29; Acts 8:26-35; Luke 18:18-27)
We are one generation from the church ceasing to exist. The most important job that we have as parents is to communicate and live out the Gospel to our children. This message will give parents practical strategies for sharing the Gospel with their children and the children in their lives. (Matthew 18:1-6; Matthew 19:13-15; Judges 2:8-10; Psalm 127; Psalm 78:5-8)
Study after study shows that the majority of churched people can no longer articulate the Gospel. When asked what makes Christianity different than any other religion many are content to give trite answers like, “It’s a relationship,” or “Jesus.” But, what it is the Gospel? What is it that makes someone a true follower of Jesus Christ? (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; Proverbs 11:30; John 20:21; Romans 10:17; Mark 16:15; 2 Timothy 4:1-5; 1 Corinthians 1:18; Matthew 7:13-14; Romans 1:11-17; Galatians 1:6-12)
Colossians 1:1-14 tells us:• Bless others – v. 10: You will make a difference because God is working through you. They won’t just be stories you hear, but they will experiences you live. • Grow in knowledge of God – v. 10: As you read and study, you will experience these ah-ha’s of God character, his work and his will. • Gain spiritual strength – v. – 11: there is a key part here about endurance! • Overflow with thanks – v. 11-12: (Colossians 1:1-14)
What does your life say about you and your God to world around you? Who are you when nobody else is around? How serious are you about protecting both your reputation and the reputation of your Heavenly Father. Your name is more valuable than any amount of money, because you are created in the image of God and for His glory. Big Idea: A good name is a byproduct of a life that seeks to honor God. (Proverbs 22:1)
There is no tool in our body that has as much potential for good or for evil as the tongue. What we say to or about other people can have a lasting impact that outlives us. Big Idea: Your tongue has the power of life and death. (Proverbs 18:21)
It’s been said that the biggest difference between you now and five years from now are the books you read, the places you go and the friends you make. True friends are one of the greatest gifts that God gives us. The Proverbs are full of wisdom concerning making friends and being a friend. Big Idea: The friends you make today will influence who you become tomorrow. (Proverbs 18:24)
Where is your heart? Are you living a life that seeks to please God, or self? This evangelistic message will encourage people to take an honest appraisal of their heart and to recognize their need of a Savior. Big Idea: "What comes into our minds when we think about God, is the most important thing about us." A.W. Tozer (Proverbs 20:6-9)
We’ve all heard the Proverb, “Pride goes before destruction . . .” (Proverbs 16:18), but do we believe it? The book of Proverbs has volumes to say about pride and humility. This sermon will take a look at what embracing humility brings (honor, wisdom, freedom and grace). Big Idea: Pride is the relentless pursuit of the lifting up of self. Humility is the relentless pursuit of the lifting up of God and others. (Proverbs 29:23)
Money and power are two of the most seductive forces known to man. How we handle our finances and the blessings that God brings us says a lot about what our priorities are. With great power comes great responsibility. Living as Christians in the most prosperous and powerful nation on earth has given us a great deal of responsibility. Big Idea: Following God yields rewards that are greater than any amount of money or power that the world offers. (Proverbs 28:5-6; Various)
Full of practical wisdom and keen insight, this message gives the listener some perspective on how God views the wealth that He has given to us (especially in the USA). It is given to be a blessing to others – especially through His Kingdom work. ( 1 Timothy 6:17-19)
God has called His followers to a race that is worth running. This message encourages us to run in the right direction, run from sin and to run to the battle, encouraging us to repent, refocus and restart if we're running the wrong way. (2 Timothy 2:22)
Sin always has and always will be seductive. There is nothing that Satan desires to see as much in the life of a Christian than a life that brings dishonor to the Lord. Proverbs 6 is a power packed chapter of Scripture describing the effects that sin has on a life and how to live in victory over that sin. Big Idea: No sin, no matter how great, is beyond the capacity for God to forgive and you to live in freedom over. (Proverbs 6:16-19)
The Proverbs are full of practical advice regarding parenting. In Proverbs 4, Solomon paints a beautiful picture of a father giving advice to a son. Fathers and mothers could learn much from Solomon’s words in this chapter. He is passionate about handing down a spiritual heritage to his children that will help them avoid life’s pitfalls. Big Idea: Wisdom passed down from one generation to the next honors God. It is a priceless gift to the recipient. (Proverbs 4:1-2)
It’s one thing to possess wisdom; it’s quite another thing to apply it. In Proverbs 3, Solomon spells out for us the rewards that come from walking the path of wisdom. Big Idea: God isn’t a part of life, He is life. And life is better when you include Him in all you do. (Proverbs 3:1-10)
Solomon was the wisest man ever to walk on planet earth. When given the choice to ask God for anything, Solomon chose wisdom. The Proverbs are a gift to us because they contain a treasure trove of godly wisdom. Even though Solomon was given great insight, he knew that real wisdom came from above and started with the fear of the Lord. Big Idea: Knowledge minus God equals foolishness. (Proverbs 1:1-7)
She was a secret Jewish queen in a pagan land. Esther's rise to power in the palace of Xerxes is a story of daring obedinence, the providence of God, and the special calling God has on each of our lives. Big Idea: You do not live in this place during this time by an act of random chance. God created you to live for such a time as this. (Esther 4:14)
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego lived a life of no compromise. From the time of their captivity in Babylon, these men, and their friend Daniel, stood apart. They lived as servants of the Most High God. When their faith was put under fire, they trusted that God would rescue them from the hand of a mighty King. But, even if no rescue would come these men were willing to give their very lives in service to the Lord. Big Idea: Building a strong foundation allows us to stand when our faith comes under fire. (Daniel 1-3)
Jonathan and his armor bearer are two of Scripture's most underrated heroes. They were men who in the face of insurmountable odds believed God instead of men. Their story is an inspiration to anyone who has ever taken a risk for God. People who recognize that their life is a mist, and God is most important are willing to take courageous risks for God. BIg Idea: Courage happens when we persevere under pressure. It happens when we say, “No” to fleshly desires in order to say "Yes" to God's desires. (1 Samuel 13:16-14:15)
Hannah's story is an incredible tale of extravagent love. She wanted nothing more than to be a mother, and when finally given the chance, she gave her son to the Lord. Recognizing that her life was a mist and God's story is most important, Hannah saw God accomplish remarkable things through her son. In the midst of grief, her faith was strong, and her unwavering commitment to the Lord, no matter how hard her life was is a living lesson for us. Big Idea: Even when it feels like our world is falling apart, God is trustworthy. (1 Samuel 1:1-2:11)
We all have one life to live on this earth, and only what is done for Christ will last for eternity. So, why is it so hard to not get wrapped up in the world's system of acquiring as much as we can for ourselves? This message focuses on living our lives for God and His priorities. Big idea: God has given us everything we need to know and to live the life that He desires for us. (James 4:13-17)
John's Gospel ends with the Jesus reinstating Peter. Peter had blown it. He had denied Christ. He must have felt so ashamed. But, the Great Shepherd had good plans for Peter. Jesus would use Peter to start His church. As Jesus prepared to leave earth, He prepared those who had followed Him to lead others. Big Ideas: God can work through our greatest failures to accomplish His purposes. (John 20)
This is session four from the Women of Freedom Conference with Stephanie Wessman held at Woodbury Community Church on Saturday, April 18, 2009.
This is session three from the Women of Freedom Conference with Stephanie Wessman held at Woodbury Community Church on Saturday, April 18, 2009.
This is session two from the Women of Freedom Conference with Stephanie Wessman held at Woodbury Community Church on Saturday, April 18, 2009.
This is session one from the Women of Freedom Conference with Stephanie Wessman held at Woodbury Community Church on Saturday, April 18, 2009.
It was a day unlike any other. Grief was replaced with joy. Sin's curse had been broken. Jesus had defeated Satan. Everything in John's Gospel comes down to Easter! Easter changed everything. Big Idea: Want life? Believe. The Resurrection changes everything. (John 20)
The time has come. Everything in John's Gospel leads to this point in time. Jesus Christ, whom John the Baptist called the Lamb of God Who takes away the sins of the world, way back in chapter two becomes the literal lamb of God on the cross. Big Idea: Jesus Christ is the only Lamb to ever willingly give His life. He gave His life so that we might find life. (John 19:1-42)
This is the fourth week of the elective class Seeing God's Promises Fulfilled: Moses, The Exodus and Jesus, taught by JJ and Steph Wessman. (Exodus)
It's in John's eighteenth chapter that we see Jesus arrested, abused and put on trial. What is so striking is the determination with which Jesus goes through His torment. When all around Him leave, Jesus demonstrates His love by faithfully facing the cross. Big Idea: God's faithfulness is not dependent upon our goodness. When we were at our worst, Jesus love reached out to us. He is the Faithful One and His love for you never fails. (John 18:1-40; Isaiah 53:3-5)
This is the third week of the elective class Seeing God's Promises Fulfilled: Moses, The Exodus and Jesus, taught by JJ and Steph Wessman. (Exodus)
Jesus' prayer in the Upper Room gives us a tender glimpse at the heart of God towards those He created. Jesus prayed that He would be glorified in the cross, in heaven and in the church. He prayed for His disciples. And, He prayed for us! Big Idea: Jesus Christ is your biggest fan. He is your Intercessing Prayer Warrior, and He is most glorified in you when you are most satisfied in Him. (John 17:1-26)
This is the second week of the elective class Seeing God's Promises Fulfilled: Moses, The Exodus and Jesus, taught by JJ and Steph Wessman. (Exodus)
This is the first week of the elective class Seeing God's Promises Fulfilled: Moses, The Exodus and Jesus. The class is taught by JJ and Steph Wessman, our representatives in Israel with Operation Mobilization. (Exodus)
The lessons of the Upper Room were coming to a close. Jesus had spoken profound truth to the disciples. Now, he was telling them that they would face some incredible trials in the years ahead. The world would hate them because they loved Christ. Jesus showed his disciples that despite incredible trials, joy and peace could be theirs, for they served the God of the universe. Big Idea: In difficult situations, God is able to infuse the believer with strength, joy, and peace. (John 16:1-33; Psalm 119:9, 11; Hebrews 12:11;)
Jesus Christ called Himself the Vine and his followers the branches. Just like the branches of grape vine cannot survive without the vine, so we as believers cannot spiritually thrive apart from Christ and our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Jesus told his followers that to follow Him meant that they would be hated by the world. They would need each other like never before. Jesus was sending the Holy Spirit to empower the disciples to accomplish great things for Christ. He would show them ultimate love by laying down His life for them. He wanted them to show great love to each other. Big Idea:True disciples are connected to the Vine, bear much fruit, are characterized by their love for each other, and will face persecution. (John 15:1-27; Isaiah 5:7; Isaiah 5:1-2; Galatians 5:22-23; John 13:34-35; 1 Timothy 3:12; Philippians 1:29; 1 Thessalonians 3:3-4; 1 Peter 4:12-13;)
John fourteen has been called the comfort chapter, because Jesus begins this chapter by comforting his disciples. There is so much foundational truth contained in John 14 -- from the promise of Christ's return for His children, to His declarative statment that He is the only way to the Father, to His demand that those who love Him obey Him, to His promise that the Holy Spirit would be given. Big Idea: Christ has given us everything we need to follow Him today and every reason to follow Him for life. (John 14:1-7; 1 Peter 5:6-9; Matthew 7:13-14; 2 Corinthians 12:2-4; Philippians 3:20; Ephesians 2:6; 1 John 3:2; Philippians 1:22-26; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Titus 2:13 ;)
3400 years ago the tribe of Israel began settling the land of Canaan. During this time the Israelites established a form of government with God, this form of government is known as a Theocracy. This Theocracy as established in Exodus 19, is the same spiritual government we have submitted ourselves to once we entered into a relationship with Jesus Christ. As the Israelites forget their covenant a pattern of sin an redemption is set in place. So too when we forget our covenant with Christ a pattern of sin will ultimately ensue. Big Idea: Ultimately Christ is the king of our Lives, and When we refuse to acknowledge his kingship we fall into patterns of sin. (Judges 18)
Everything in John's Gospel has led to the point where Jesus finds himself in John 13. His time has come. He knows that by the time the next morning comes, he will be hanging on Calvary's tree. John 13-17 include some of Jesus' most profound teachings. In the Upper Room, Jesus teaches his disciples timeless truths regarding service, love, the Holy Spirit, heaven, Christ and love. This message deals with the call to be servants who love others more than we love ourselves; a lesson that Jesus teaches best through personal example. (John 13:1-38; Philippians 2:5-9)
He was like no King the world had ever seen. Jesus Christ, rode into Jerusalem on a donkey in John 12, and he talked about what it meant to follow Him. He was the King who would give his life for the people. He came to serve. He came so that we might have life. And, there are demnads that he makes of his subjects too. This sermon takes a look at the cost of following Jesus, and the King who who would give his life for us. (John 12:1-50; John 11:47-57; Luke 7:37; 2 Samuel 24:24; Zechariah 9:9)
John's eleventh chapter includes one of the most beautiful displays of God's power in all of Scripture. Lazarus, the friend of Christ, and the brother of Mary and Martha has died. Jesus arrives on a scene that is sad and full of disappointment. His genuine followers and friends wonder why He didn't come sooner. Martha, sure that Jesus could have stopped Lazarus' death, shows some doubt, but Jesus erases the doubt of his followers, gains the trust of the masses, and the fury of the religious leaders when He raises Lazarus from the dead. (John 11:1-57; Mark 14:6-9; John 4:46-54)
In John 10, Jesus identifies himself as the Good Shepherd, and he talks about who His sheep are. What are the signs of genuine faith? How does a follower of Chrsit live? What does it mean to hear God's voice. This sermon will answer those questions. (John 10:1-42; Isaiah 53:6; Psalm 100:3; Matthew 9:36)
As the crowd tried to stone Jesus, He slipped away, and when He did, He passed by a blind man. The man, who had been blind from birth was healed by Jesus. It was the Sabbath, and the Jewish leaders instead of celebrating the healing of the man, curse Jesus. Jesus came so that those who were spiritually blind could be made whole. Let the Rule Breaker break the shackles that hold you back from seeing Him for who He is. (John 8:39-John 9:41; Exodus 3:13-14; Romans 5:12; Romans 9:17; Genesis 1:10; Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 26:7; Psalm 33:4; Psalm 40:5; Psalm 66:3; Psalm 86:8; Psalm 92:4; Psalm 111:3; Luke 18:11-13)
Jesus entered into a world that was in bondage to sin. He spoke about this in great detail in John’s eighth chapter, but He did not do so as an uncompassionate Savior. He came as the Light of the World, to expose the world to Himself, to God the Father and to the Cross. Just as Christ is the Light of the World, He calls those of us who are His children to be the Light of the World as well. (John 8)
John 7 opens with Jesus’ brothers sarcastically encouraging Jesus to go to Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles so that he could “show himself” to the world. He tells them that it is not his time to go to the Feast. After his brothers leave for the Feast, Jesus goes up secretly. About halfway through the Feast Jesus goes to the temple courts and begins to teach. In doing so, he reveals that He was sent by God, that his message is from God, and that He will one day return to God and send the Holy Spirit. The people of Jerusalem are divided by Christ’s message. Some call him demon possessed, others call for his arrest, some want his very life taken from him, and still others believe his message. This message will exam the claims that Christ made, and will exam the symbolism of the three Jewish festivals and the future promise that we have of Christ’s return. (John 7)
Sermon preached at Woodbury Community Church, on Sunday, December 28, 2008 by Rev. Matt Milligan, CCCC Church Planter, Hudson, Wisconsin. (John 2:13-25)
Jesus Christ was born in the shadow of a cross. His coming to earth, which was foretold by God himself, in the Garden of Eden, and by the propehts, changed the world. These are uncertain times that we live in. The world may seem like it is falling apart this Christmas, but God is still on the throne, and Jesus is still offering life that is more abundant than anything this world has to offer. Give yourself to Him this Christmas! (Matthew 1:21)
Mary, the mother of Jesus, was a remarkable woman. When chosen, by God, to be the mother of Jesus, Mary responds with beautiful worship. Through an in depth look at Mary's Song in Luke 1:46-55, we'll see the heart of a woman who trusted her God and sought to please Him. Big Idea: God can be trusted with our lives, and when we do, He can do great things in and through us. (Luke 1:26-56)
The shepherds were amongst the most despised people in all of Israel. Unable to worship with the rest of the country, relegated to the outskirts of town, and untrusted, God chose to send the angelic announcement of the birth of Christ to this group. There is much we can learn from the shepherds about who God is and who God came to save. (Luke 2:8-20; Isaiah 53:3)
Joseph was an extraordinary man. By the time Jesus reaches adulthood, there is no more mention of him, but his radical obedience to the Father, made him the right choice to be the stepfather of God. No man before, or since had ever had to face such a difficult task. He had the perfect child, and he had a difficult test to his faith. Big Idea: Faith, and a life characterized by holiness are gifts that Christ would love to receive from you. Give him that gift. (Matthew 1:18-25; John 1:43-46; Philippians 2:8)
The sad story of King Herod is indicative of the way that many of us go through the Christmas season. We miss just what it is that this season is all about. And, in missing it, we lose out on the wonder and majesty of Jesus. Big Idea: Christmas is about Jesus! Let Him be at the center of your celebration. (Matthew 2:1-23)
Sermon preached at Woodbury Community Church, Woodbury, MN on Sunday, November 23, 2008 by Rev. Dr. John Kimball, Director of Conference Care & Church Redevelopment, Conservative Congregational Christian Conference.
About a year has passed from the time we leave John chapter five and the time we begin John chapter six. The is the third Passover that we see take place during the ministry of Jesus. Jesus begins to teach, and a large crowd gathers to hear Him. After awhile, Jesus feeds this huge crowd (5,000 men + women and children) with two small fish and five small loaves of bread. The next day, Jesus tells His disciples that He is the Bread of Life (vs. 33). There are some in the crowd who do not believe that Mary and Joseph’s son could possibly be the Son of God. Jesus compares Himself to the manna from heaven in the Old Testament, and shows that unlike those who ate the manna, those who eat His flesh and drink His blood will live forever. Not quite understanding, many in the crowd find Jesus’ teaching too hard. Now, some disciples begin to abandon Jesus. (John 6:1-71)
This chapter is a turning point in the book of John. John chapter five includes perhaps the strongest statement to the deity of Christ in the entire Bible. There can be no doubt, based upon this chapter, that Jesus equated himself with God. He identified with God the Father in his nature, power and authority. The chapter opens with him healing a man at the pool at Bethesda. The healing took place on the Sabbath day, causing the Jews to seek to kill Jesus. He then tells them that He is the Son of God, and that this has been shown through four witnesses – John the Baptist, Jesus’ works, God the Father, and the Scriptures. Ultimately he shows them that Moses, who they followed will judge them for rejecting Christ. Jesus wants to heal lives, but we must let him. (John 5:1-47)
It’s in his interaction with the woman at the well that you see Jesus’ ministering heart in all of His glory. He offers the woman the gift of satisfaction for which her heart truly longed. He offered her complete satisfaction, which was only available through the ingredient of Jesus Christ, made possible by His character. (John 4:1-42; Acts 1:8; Jeremiah 2:13; Psalm 36:9; Isaiah 55:1; Psalm 112:1; John 3:7; John 3:14)
He was Israel's Teacher. His name was Nicodemus. A Pharisee, a member of the Sanhedrin, and a leader of the Jews, this man's meeting with Jesus, the God-man produced a conversation that would change the world. Nicodemus needed desperately what only Jesus could offer. His leagalistic religion had left him empty, and his sincere questioning of Jesus would give hope to teh world. It's in this chapter that we find the most loved Bible verse, John 3:16. This sermon focuses on the reason that Jesus came into the world. ( John 3:1-21; John 2:12-25; Numbers 21:4-9; Romans 3:10; Romnas 8:3; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 3:13; James 2:19; Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23; Romans 10:9)
John's second chapter opens with the story of Jesus' first miracle. Jesus turns water into wine at a wedding in Cana of Galilee. Everything about Jesus' first miracle is significant. What we learn from the story reveals much about Jesus and much about us! (John 2:1-11)
While the first eighteen verses of John 1 introduce the divine nature of Jesus, verse 19-51 introduce the human nature of Jesus. John uses the final half of his first chapter to introduce Jesus. He does so by recording the events of one week in the life of Christ. In this week we see Jesus introduced and baptized by John the Baptist. We see Jesus call his first disciples and, at the beginning of chapter two, perform his first miracle. John the Baptist calls Jesus the Lamb of God, in a beautiful foretelling of Christ’s purpose on earth. Jesus uses a term for himself that is unique in that only Jesus and Stephen, the Martyr used it: Son of Man. It is a picture of Jesus willful obedience to the Father. He was literally the will of God. (John 1:19-51; Luke 1:13-17, 42-44, 76; Malachai 4:5-6; Matthew 11:11; Genesis 22; 28:12; John 1:14)
The book of John has been called the simplest of all of the Gospels to read, and also the deepest of all of the Gospels. Written by one of the inner core of Jesus' disciples, John emphasizes the Godship of Jesus. He also emphasizes an absolute commitment to personal salvation. This sermon will provide a brief overview of the book of John and then dive into the mystery of God Incarnate. Big Idea: God has revealed Himself to mankind. Jesus is God. Believe and Live. (John 20:31; Mark 5:29-43; Mark 9:2; Mark 13:3; Mark 14:32-34; John 1:1-18; Colossians 1:16-17; Psalm 33:6; Psalm 19:1; Psalm 139:14)
Jesus is passionate about his church making more disciples. And, he wants that to happen all over the world. This sermon focuses on our passion to see God multiply the impact of Woodbury Community Church through sending missionaries and planting churches. Big Idea: God has called us to go into all the world to tell others about Him. There has never been a time in the history of the world where the Gospel is as accessible as it is today. We must be the church that can't stop sending. (Acts 1:6-11; Psalm 3; Revelation 22:20; Matthew 24:36-44; Acts 6:1-7; Acts 8:26-40)
The church has been called to glorify God in everything we do. How we live our lives says everything about our view of worship, and God. Big Idea: Worship isn't just singing songs, praying and Bible study. It's a lifestyle. Living every day for the glory of God. (Matthew 6:5-9; Revelation 5:11-14; Psalm 95:6; 1 Samuel 15:22; Genesis 22: 1-12; Exodus 20:3; Matthew 6:24; Psalm 84:10; Joshua 24:15; Matthew 22:34-40; Psalm 26:8; Psalm 27:4; Psalm 84:4)
The church that understands how to serve like Jesus will make an impact on their community like no other. Jesus was the ultimate servant. He created us in His image and has definite plans for how we are to live our lives. Every believer has been given spiritual gifts, abilities, passions, experiences and a personality with which to serve Christ. Use them for His glory! Big Idea: Use your God ordained gifts to serve this world for the purpose of advancing His kingdom. (Ephesians 2:8-10; Mark 10:42-45; Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:14-31; Revelation 17:17; Psalm 37:4; 1 Corinthians 12:6; 1 Corinthians 2:11; Romans 8:28; Matthew 5:16)
A Church that honors God seeks to know Him more. The Church at Berea was such a church. They didn't just listen to the Apostle Paul's teachings, they studies the Scriptures themselves to see if what Paul said was true. Big Idea: Spiritual Growth begins and ends with God, and is produced in the context of the Body of Christ. ( Acts 17:10-15; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 10:9; Hebrews 10:25; Acts 2:42-47; 1 John 1:3; 1 Peter 2:2-3; Romans 12:1-2)
God created us for community. Just as the Father, Son and Spirit are one and live in union and commuion with one another, so Christ desires His church to be one. A church that honors Christ is a church that is living in fellowship with one another. When the church leaves the building, they keep meeting, in homes, neighborhoods, businesses, schools, we need each other. Big Idea: God created us for community. (Acts 2:41-47; Matthew 28:18-20; Hebrews 10:25)
God is passionate about His church making more disciples. The early church lived with the resolve to share the love of Christ, daily. And, God added daily to the numbers of those who were being saved. Evangelism is something that God calls all of us to. (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; Acts 2:41-47; Matthew 22:34-40)
Want to live a life that displays self-control? Then you have to live a life that is yielded to the Sprit. The secret to self-control in any area is to yield the control of your life to the Holy Spirit. That begins with a conscious decision and yields awesome results. Big Idea: True self-control is when we yield control of our lives to God. (Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Proverbs 25:28; 29:11; 6:23-26; 21:20; 23:29-35; 23:4; 23:20-21; Galatians 5:17-21; 1 Peter 5:8-9; 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 2:1-6; Galatians 5:16; Ecclesiastes 4:10; 1 Corinthians 15:33; Job 31:1)
In order to be fruit bearing believers in Christ, we must abide in Him. This begins as we learn to forgive as Jesus forgives. (Colossians 3:1-12, John 15:5, Matthew 6:9-15, Matthew 18:21-35, Matthew 18:15-17, Matthew 5:23-24)
Jesus loved the Lake. When he walked the earth, there were many times that He gathered with large crowds of people, who listened to Him teach, experienced miracles, and saw that He was God. Big Idea: Jesus, is who He said He was! Trust Him with your life. (Mark 6:30-52; John 6:9; 2 Corinthians 5:17; James 1:2-4; Matthew 14:28-31)
Use the word "gentle" today and it conjures up images of weak men or mothers. But, God called his children to be gentle. Gentleness is the ability to love those who don't love you or God so that they might be drawn to Christ. (Gal. 5:22-23, 1 Thes. 2:1-12, Acts 17:1-9, Prov. 15:1, Matt. 11:29, Matt. 21:5, Zech. 9:9, Phil. 4:5, Col 3:12, 1 Tim. 6:11, Prov. 16:32, 1 Pet. 3:15)
Faithfulness is a character trait that we love when we see it in others. Solomon lamented the lack of faithful men in Proverbs. Paul vowed to be a faithful man. Jesus told the church to be faithful. Faithfulness is following Jesus, no matter the cost. (Galatians 5:22-23, Proverbs 20:6-7, Revelation 2:8-11, 2 Timothy 4:6-8)
Goodness is probably best defined as love in action. Choosing to respond in a way that is good to others, sometimes at great personal cost to us, can be tough. But, that's what Christ did for us. God is looking for good men and women to impact the world. Big Idea: Goodness is love in action directed towards God. (Galatians 5:22-23; Romans 3:9-18, 22-24; Romans 7:15; 1 John 3:16-19; Ephesians 5:9; 2 Thessalonians 1:11, 12; Romans 15:14)
Want to see people's lives changed? Begin with kindness. Kindness has always been a characteristic associated with followers of Jesus Christ. Small Things Done With Great Love Change the World. (Galatians 5:22-23; John 7:46; John 8:1-11; 2 Corinthians 3:2-3; Colossians 4:5-6)
So many of us hear the word patience and assume that God is talking about us being patient for Him to act. Patience as shown in Galatians is about extending God's grace to others. This sermon will challenge you to show forebearance to others. (Galatians 5:22-23; Romans 2:1-4; 1 Corinthians 13:4; Colossians 3:12; Acts 8:1; Acts 9:1-8a; Romans 7:21-25; Acts 15:36-41; 2 Timothy 4:11; 1 Timothy 1:14-16; Matthew 5:23-25; Proverbs 19:11)
Millions of people live every day with no sense of peace. Despair rules where peace could be. How do you find and keep peace in a world of uncertainty? It's one thing to say you trust God when everything is going well, but what do you do in the tough days? (Galatians 5:22-23; Luke 10:38-42; Philippians 4:6-7; John 14:27; Proverbs 3:5-6; Jeremiah 29:13; Isaiah 26:3-4)
Everybody is looking for joy and happiness. It's safe to say that most people if given the choice between being happy or sad, would choose happiness. The big idea is that joy is the result of living our lives with God's priorities. (Galatians 5:22-23, John 15:9-12; Philippians 4:4; James 1:2-4; Nehemiah 8:10)
God created you to love! The first of the fruit of the Spirit is the basis of all of the other fruit. The big idea is that love is the relentless pursuit of the lifting up of others. (Galatians 5:13-26; Acts 14:8-23; 1 John 4:7-16; Mark 10:35-45; 1 Corinthians 13:1-8a)