Fox Valley Church: Recent Episodes
Fox Valley Church
Our Easter Series will be called Hope: Desiring a Better World. All of us have deep longings and intense desires for a more perfect world. The people that lined the streets on Palm Sunday were looking for something more, something better, something different. They were hoping for a better world. We are really no different. We live in a world of disappointments, discouragements, disease, death and more. All of us have unfulfilled expectations. We know too, hope can be tender and fragile, so we seek a hope that is grounded and resilient. Then on Easter Sunday, we discover others finding “hope” among a pantheon of gods, all of them promising something bigger, something better, something more. Paul breaks in with a description of the One True God who promises the hope of a Better World. The proof of this radical, well-grounded hope is the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The resurrection promises the hope of eternal life in a perfect world of love.God, the Creator, stands overall and is unlimited. He has no needs, rather he gives life to all. He is deeply personal and cares for people. He wants to be known. He created all the nations so that “they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him.” Often, because we are finite, we try to imagine God is somehow like us. We limit Him or Now He calls us to see Him as He truly is! He has appointed His Son to bring accountability to all. The resurrection is evidence of God’s plan and ways. [Note: This will be gospel oriented, focused on God and what He has done. It will be an encouragement not to look at people or the church and the disappointments and failures, but look to God.]
Our Easter Series will be called Hope: Desiring a Better World. All of us have deep longings and intense desires for a more perfect world. The people that lined the streets on Palm Sunday were looking for something more, something better, something different. They were hoping for a better world. We are really no different. We live in a world of disappointments, discouragements, disease, death and more. All of us have unfulfilled expectations. We know too, hope can be tender and fragile, so we seek a hope that is grounded and resilient. Then on Easter Sunday, we discover others finding “hope” among a pantheon of gods, all of them promising something bigger, something better, something more. Paul breaks in with a description of the One True God who promises the hope of a Better World. The proof of this radical, well-grounded hope is the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The resurrection promises the hope of eternal life in a perfect world of love.The people were seeking more! Inside their hearts were aspirations and desires for a better world. We have longings to be loved. They followed the crowds “for the next best hope,” but in this case it truly was the BEST HOPE. Jesus was sent by God and came in the name of the Lord. Like the crowd, our view of God is often too small. They saw Jesus only as a prophet, perhaps even the Messiah, but it was all too small. God promised more and delivered more than we could ever imagine, hope for or dream!
This is the last message in the series on Daniel. The focus will be on the “Christ Sightings” in the book to achieve the unimaginable. Three main ones will be reviewed: 1) the great stone that crushes the kingdoms of this world (2:34-35, 44); 2) the Son of Man who is given dominion by the Ancient of Days (7:13-14); and the coming Messiah who will be cut off (9:25-26). All these will show God’s Grand Plan fulfilled in Jesus of Nazareth. All of this is written to encourage, sustain, and strengthen us to fight the battles we face in the 21st century.
Some things just can be fixed; they need to be recreated. Evil will be fully and finally defeated. Sin and sickness will be defeated. The broken will be made whole. Tears will be wiped away. So, two questions get asked, “how long?” and “what will the outcome be?” The first is answered with a reply heard earlier in the book, but has repercussions for the end times. The second goes unanswered (or already answered). We must wait with confidence that God will keep all of His promises. Jesus will return as King and Judge.
God's Grand Plan to Achieve the UnimaginableThese few verses are meant to comfort and encourage Daniel and God’s people. First, there is deliverance for God’s people that rages against them—then and now. Michael is the angelic prince, Israel’s defender. At the end of the end, Satan will attempt to destroy all God’s people with a time of unprecedented tribulation. As Jesus said, “there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now—and never to be equaled again.” Secondly, Daniel and God’s people are comforted and encouraged by the hope of resurrection.
Wars and More Wars, but God is in ControlWhile these final verses of chapter 11 continue from our last message, they point beyond to another great, but destructive leader. Jesus spoke in the same way in Matthew 24 of near events folded into faraway events. The end of this chapter reminds us the battle is ultimately the kingdoms of this world against the kingdom of God or Humanity against God. There is more yet to come and we need to continually trust on God who is in control and cares for His people. While we are prone to fear, anxiety, discouragement and depression when all seems so dark, there is always hope. Jesus only gives us this hope because He is the final Conqueror.
Wars and More Wars, but God is in ControlThe war mentioned (10:1) is now focused on empires at war. The intensity and longevity of these wars will cause the people of God to wonder if God even knows or cares. Depression and Discouragement can easily follow. However, the details Daniel gives are mind-boggling, but factual and futuristic to him. The point of God revealing this is that He is in control and we need to trust Him rather than take matters into our own hands. Too easily we rely on politics, science or our own ingenuity. Nothing will get in the way of God’s plans. There is much to learn about the ways God shows His love and care—He warns, He limits and He delivers. “Those who know their God will be strong and take action.” (11:32)
Daniel 10 brings us into the final vision (chapters 10-12) that involves a great war, a conflict of unimaginable magnitude. Though exiles are returning to Israel and things should be getting better, but Daniel is found in a time of mourning and fasting. He encounters a heavenly messenger that reminds us of the holiness and glory of God, but also of the reality is life is hard for God’s people and why life is so difficult. There is an assurance of God’s care in hardship revealed in “touches.” This chapter also prepares us to understand the war, especially the spiritual dimensions. What surprises us is that the conflicts here on earth have a counterpart in the heavenly realm. The upshot is that we need to have spiritual armor to fight the spiritual battles. Our battle is a spiritual battle, not one against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12). Jesus won our victory at the Cross and proved it through the Resurrection!
Our Only HopeDaniel was in prayer and a vision comes to him that was at once staggering, confusing and full of hope. In prayer he was concerned for the people of God because of the Babylonian captivity prophesied by Jeremiah and God’s promises to deliver them. There was the promise of the new covenant by Jeremiah that caused further intrigue. Daniel had his own hopes of what he wanted God to do, but God would make Daniel’s largest dreams pale in comparison to what God wanted to do! A day was coming when God would act and send His Anointed One to atone for sin and even put an end to sin and bring everlasting Righteousness. A new covenant would be established! But there would be a time between that rocked Daniel’s world and will rock ours! Are we ready to receive all that God has for us? (Note: This message can set us up for the Lord’s Supper.)
Who is Fox Valley Church?Every church has its own DNA. Even if a church shares a similar vision and mission, because a church is people, each spiritual community takes on a flavor of its own. It is well known that as the church leaders go, so goes the church. So influential are the leadership shepherds, the sheep often follow in their steps. It is important to know the leaders and where the church is headed. This series is designed to bring our body into a greater understanding of who FVC is, where we are going as a church and how we want to move forward.The question this week is “Where are we going?” In the big picture our goal, our destination, our landing place, is to present everyone woman, every man, every student mature in Christ. The amazing aspect of our journey is Christ is our motivating and energizing power and at the same time He is our goal. Maturity in Christ is our ambition for everyone God brings to Fox Valley Church. However, this journey will involve suffering (24). The destination is “Christ is all and in all” (3:11). [Note: This message we will introduce the 1-1-1 towards full surrender. We will also remind our body of the vision, mission and values. Specifically, mature believers are always growing in the Word; continually in a place of deeper worship and prayer; understanding we need each other in meaningful relationships; and strengthening resolve to mission.]
Who is Fox Valley Church?Every church has its own DNA. Even if a church shares a similar vision and mission, because a church is people, each spiritual community takes on a flavor of its own. It is well known that as the church leaders go, so goes the church. So influential are the leadership shepherds, the sheep often follow in their steps. It is important to know the leaders and where the church is headed. This series is designed to bring our body into a greater understanding of who FVC is, where we are going as a church and how we want to move forward.Fox Valley Church has a very specific DNA that distinguishes us from other like-minded churches in the area because of the vision and values of our church. We have made distinctive choices that impact who we are. This message will explore the vision of FVC as it is anchored in the Word of God. This week we will answer the first question, “Who is Fox Valley Church?”[Note: this message will focus on our vision, mission, and values. Our values shape much of our DNA.]
Luke 10:38-42Choosing the Good Part:Martha's Invitation, Martha's Irritation, and Martha's Information
The Wait: The Promised King who will be a Perfect RedeemerGod, our Creator, the One who made us, IS the only One who can redeem us and claim us as His own. With remarkable insight of Isaiah, we could see the promised fulfilled in the One and Only Son of God, Jesus Christ our Redeemer. In the fulness of time God sent for His Son to redeem us.
The Wait: The Promised King who will be a Perfect PriestJesus is our High Priest who is the perfect mediator between God and human beings. Jesus steps in as the Perfect High Priest who is our teacher, calls us to worship, and significantly serves as our High Priest who entered the Holy of Holies for us. We need the Perfect Priest!
The Wait: The Promised King who will be a Perfect ShepherdThe King for which we wait will be our Perfect Shepherd. We need a shepherd who will lead, feed, care and protect us without compromise. Today too, we live in the shadows of so many compromised “shepherds” that disappoint and discourage God’s people. So, we wait. Yes, we experience the Perfect Shepherd now, but we wait for a deeper, fuller, future time when it will only be better, greater, and grander. We need the Perfect Shepherd!
The Wait: The Promised King who will be a Perfect SonThis promised King goes back to the writings of Moses, but is carried forward with the prophets clarifying it would be One out of the tribe of Judah, in the family of David, born in Bethlehem—so a Son who would be the Perfect King. God became human, one of us, yet without sin so that He could do what needed to be done—a perfect sacrifice in our place! Only this Son could satisfy the righteous demands of a Holy God! We need the Perfect Son!
Daniel: A Model PrayerDaniel’s prayer models how we might pray as we see countries (even our own) and individuals deny God. Perhaps we can see also the weakness of the church as it is often compromised. But it's ultimately an appeal to the mercy of God for forgiveness and healing. It is only in Jesus Christ that the most basic problem of sin (demonstrated in hate, violence, war, dysfunction, brokenness and more) is ultimately and finally dealt with. Where O Sin is your victory? Jesus Christ is victorious and the very power of God.
Daniel: Our Only HopeDaniel receives another vision that God is all-knowing of the past, present and future. God was paving the way for the fullness of time in which to send the promised Messiah. This is tightly tied to the vision of Daniel 7 taught a week earlier. Our only hope is in God who intervenes in history and our lives.
Daniel: The Ancient of Days Still RulesAs we live in uncertain times with a growing threat of nuclear weaponry, financial uncertainty, and a danger of a spreading Middle East crisis, we do not have to live in fear or intimidation on a world scale or in our individual lives. While we have “giants” in the world, we have “giants” to face in our private lives, but under the Ruling and Powerful Hand of Jesus.
Daniel: Trusting God when the World's Against YouDaniel modeled a spiritual response of trusting in God and diligently seeking Him when others sought to work against him. So whether in our families, neighborhoods, or workplace living innocently before God and man brings greater spiritual vitality and honors God. In contrast, when we compromise, excuse or blatantly sin we destroy our spiritual appetites for God and dishonor Him.
Nebuchadnezzar’s Dream of a Great Tree and Humiliation shows how this world is filled with ego, pride, self-centeredness, and self-focus, and one day, all of this will be finally and forever overthrown by Jesus when He comes as King and Judge. God moves in wonderful ways to disclose his hope and promise for the world which shows great, victorious plans for his people.Daniel: Me-Ism ExposedBelshazzar’s Feast and the Handwriting on the Wall confronts the “me-ism” of our day and exalts the sovereign work of God as He graces all nations and individuals (18, 19). Those who humble themselves will taste of the goodness of God and those who resist will see the wrath and fury of a Holy God. The self-focus, self-centeredness, selfishness, self-regard, etc. all point to an empty life devoid of meaning and purpose. It is only when we give our lives for others in a cause greater than this present world that we find substantial meaning and real fulfillment.
Daniel: Will you risk it all?Nebuchadnezzar’s Image of Gold and the Fiery Furnace reveals that God’s people are always safest when living in the convictions of God and His Word. The world and sadly many in the church too easily set the agenda. Rather, let God set the agenda and then take whatever comes your way. Daniel’s friends determined clearly the priority and were fine with the results. Can we do the same and “risk” all that we have (even life) to follow the One who is life?
Daniel: Equipped for lifeThere is a standoff between God (His kingdom) and the kingdoms of this world. This can be brought down to the individual level as we seek God’s will and leading in matters. God has equipped us to do everything He has called us to do. More significantly, as we live for God, we will stand out, thereby giving testimony to the greatness of God. Daniel believed in God and was willing to put it all on the line. God has equipped all of us to live a uniquely Christ-centered life driven by the power of the Holy Spirit
There is a standoff between God (His kingdom) and the kingdoms of this world. This can be brought down to the individual level as we seek God’s will and leading in matters. God has equipped us to do everything He has called us to do. More significantly, as we live for God, we will stand out, thereby giving testimony to the greatness of God. Daniel believed in God and was willing to put it all on the line. God has equipped all of us to live a uniquely Christ-centered life driven by the power of the Holy Spirit
Heart Matters: Restoring proper worship leads to revivalJosiah had a long reign such that God described him as doing “right in the eyes of the LORD—not turning aside to the right or to the left.” The key to his ways was listening to God and restoring worship. Josiah renews the covenant, celebrated Passover and obeyed.
Heart Matters: A responsive heart leads to removing idolsKing Josiah has a surrendered heart that completely removes idols. He goes the extra mile to tear down every idol in Judah and Israel. He has the spiritual eyes to see the impact that these idols are having on his people and the tenancy of removing every form of evil. Before we can restore proper worship, we need to remove the evil from our hearts and fight against the enemy.
Heart Matters: An encounter with God leads to a responsive heart King Josiah walked in the way of the Lord from an early age. At 26 he had the temple repaired which led to the finding of the book of the law. Through the reading of God’s word, Josiah had an encounter with God which […]
Theme: Many people skip over the greetings section of the book as unimportant or unnecessary. But we learn much as we take some time to see how rich and amazing Jesus’ church really is. This section shows the diversity of the church, the unity of the church and the work of the church to persevere and sacrifice for an eternal cause.
It is God who alone can establish us individually and us as a church. When any church drifts from the gospel focused on Jesus Christ, there will be clear and sure loss. God kept the mystery of His plan veiled until He sent His One and Only Son to fulfill all that the prophets wrote. This plan needed to be revealed; we could never discover it alone. With this gospel plan, God alone gets all the praise, honor, and glory—the only wise God! AMEN!
Passage: Romans 15:14-33 Theme: We are mediators between the people of this world and God by proclaiming the gospel (a priestly duty). There is power in our work as we rely on the Holy Spirit and not on our own natural abilities. As we let the gospel shape our lives we will be able to […]
The amazing thing about the church is the diversity God brings together through His Spirit, which brings unity. The church always champions unity, and this can only happen when we are other-centered (put others first) and not seeking to please only ourselves. Our Lord Jesus Christ demonstrated laying down His life for others. Ultimately, we […]
Romans: How to Not be a Stumbling Block Mutual acceptance (love and unity) means that we live in such a way as to not be a stumbling block to one another. The gospel bring incredible freedom. However, this freedom cannot bring spiritual harm to those who have an opposing view. Thus, love for others and […]
Romans: How to Compromise Practices without Compromising the Gospel There is a laser-like focus on what it means to live in mutual acceptance (love and unity) between two groups of people—”the weak” (14:1; 15:1) and “the strong” (15:1) in faith. Remember we are family and some of our brothers and sisters are more sensitive, having […]
We are members of His family and, therefore, representatives of the family. And our family is at war. He has a mission for you…get in the battle!
What do New Creations do? Put on the new self. I will address who this new self is (Him in us!). Both putting off the old self and putting on the new self require effort and both are necessary. We will talk about the importance of the “renewal of our mind” and how God is […]
What do New Creations do? Put off the old self. This is going to tie closely into week three and won’t feel complete (and this is what I am going for). I will address who this old self is. But now that we have been made new all of this has been accomplished (the old […]
What does it mean to be a new creation? What does it mean to be a New Creation? This message will be focused on taking the focus off of ourselves. Creators create with a purpose and our purpose is to glorify Him (2 For. 5:15). Sit in awe of the glory of the Creator (as […]
Jesus sent the Holy Spirit into the church before he sent the church into the world, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the feast of Pentecost which was a thanksgiving celebration of the first fruit harvest but later associated with Christian a celebration of the day the church was established by the outpouring of […]
There is a Father in heaven that models a familial relationship cast between a father and a son/daughter. As a heavenly Father, God leads all His children. It is in this process that this guidance takes different forms. Yet there are some who are far from God or those who once were near and are […]
God cares and rather just saying it, He shows it in the works of His Son. The story is familiar to many, but familiarity has a way of shielding more probing questions. Jesus didn’t just accidentally find Himself at a well in Samaria with people His people loathed. It was intentional, decisive, on mission. There […]
Why Care? God Cares. Why Care actually backs into a deeper, more foundational question—why believe? There is a God in heaven who created everything in heaven and on earth. He owns it all. Yet, people have turned away from Him. However, when we rightly order our lives around Him and His ways, it changes everything […]
Passage: Romans 13 Theme: As the gospel shapes us, it changes all of our relationships. In chapter 13, the gospel changes our relationship to the government (1-7), the Law (8-10) and the Lord’s return (11-14). The government has authority and an important role, but we are called to love our neighbors as the fulfillment of the law even as we know the Day of Jesus’ return is near.
Passage: Romans 12:17-21 Theme: As we look at another relationship the gospel changes, our relationship to our enemies is taken head on with four negatives. Interestingly, all four are tightly related by reminding gospel-oriented Christ Followers that retaliation and revenge are forbidden. Yes, the law courts play a role in punishment, but Christians live differently. We are told how to live—with respect, in peace with all people, leave room for God to work and to overcome evil with good.
Passage: Romans 12:9-16 Theme: As we are initially changed by the gospel, and we are committed to presenting ourselves to God, we now need to relate to others in the church with the supernatural love God provides (5:5). This section brings a comprehensive picture of Christian love towards one another. Love should control and shape our relationships in the church.
Passage: Romans 12:1-8 Theme: If the Gospel is true (and it is!) and Romans 1-11 accurately captures the human problem and God’s solution with the life-giving Spirit (and it does!), then we ought to be a certain kind of people (“dead to sin and alive to God,” 6:11).
Passage: Luke 18:1-8 Theme: The context of the persistent widow is that of Jesus’ return. She pictures a vulnerable, needy believer who appeals to an unjust judge that ultimately responds. The push of the passage is how much more will a Righteous Judge intervene. It will take a steadfast faith! It takes great faith to stay aligned with Jesus and His mission. We need to pray as we move forward. “What kind of people ought we be when the Son of Man returns?”
Passage: Matthew 22:34-40Theme: Jesus had numerous encounters with the religious leaders. In this context, the animosity grows as Jesus aligns Himself with the Father by laying out the things that matter most in the Mosaic Law: Love God and Love People. Light for the Future, our 5-year campaign, stands aligned with Jesus’ words, which are consistent with Isaiah’s words in 58:10.
Passage: John 20:19-23Theme: Some of Jesus’s last conversations with His disciples were to align them with God: “as the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” Jesus was sent by the Father and in turn, Jesus sends us. Jesus will give us what we need, to do what He asks us to do. And so, we go! We pour out ourselves for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, for then our light will shine in the darkness and our night will become like the noonday (Isaiah 58:10).
Matthew 21:1-10We all want to be loved, accepted and moved towards something bigger than ourselves. Jesus was the answer in the first century, and is still the answer today.
Ephesians 4:11-16Theme: After having discussed our high calling and the importance of unity in the church, this week we will investigate the spiritual gifts that God has freely given. God has equipped leaders to do what? To equip the saints to do the work of the ministry. In modern Christianity, many Christians think that the pastors do the work, but this is heresy. God has given each person a gift to build up the Body of Christ. When healthy and working together, the Body of Christ builds itself up in love so that we can all mature and avoid the cultural influence. This also helps us be light to a dark world. We will explore themes of maturity in Christ, spiritual protection from false doctrine, and spiritual gifts. Isn't it amazing that God wants to use each of us in His plan for the Church?!
Ephesians 4:1-6After three chapters describing what God has done for us, giving us new life and a spiritual family, the focus shifts to our response and how we are to live considering God’s love and mercy. What does it look like to walk in our high calling? How does this high calling impact the way we deal with one another in love, humility, and gentleness. God calls us to unity. Many in our culture see it hostile when we stand firm in the truth of the gospel. How do we maintain oneness as a church family? What is God calling Fox Valley church to unify around? The gospel of Jesus Christ.
Passage: Revelation 21:1-22:5Theme: The Bible begins in a garden and ends in a city - paradise with God forever, no more sin, and no more pain and suffering. This is what life will look like when sin and death are fully removed from Christians’ lives and world through the power of the cross!
Passage: Lamentations 3Theme: God is sovereign through sorrow; trust the process. God planned for Jesus to be brutally tortured and murdered, and yet, this crucifixion is precisely what brings Christian's salvation and life. God often ordains bad, painful, and even evil circumstances to bring about wonderful ends.
Passage: Zephaniah 3:17Theme: God doesn’t merely love you - he likes you too! He enjoys you! And he sings over you! His love for you is so great that he joyfully planned redemption to pay the price for your sins, that you might become his family member forever.
Passage: Isaiah 55:6-13Theme: John 1 says Jesus is himself the incarnate Word! The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and as God’s Word, Jesus powerfully accomplished God the Father’s intention to save his people.
Passage: Isaiah 6Theme: God’s holiness requires his just wrath for sins. Why was Isaiah not consumed by God’s holiness? Jesus took Isaiah’s “guilt away” and “made atonement” for his sins - and he can do the same for you too!
Passage: Exodus 34Theme: God is simultaneously described as forgiving, yet unwilling to clear the guilty. How does God solve this paradox? The answer is Jesus Christ. Rather than arbitrarily clearing the guilty, God punished Christians’ guilt on the body of Jesus, so that those who exercise repentant faith can be forgiven!
Matthew 10:34-39There is a cost to following Jesus; it’s one He himself calls us to. But to follow with our whole selves, not just part of us, means life and freedom and victory.
Passage: Matthew 1:18-25Theme: The angel, a messenger of God, brings another reason why we need Christmas. This angel gives Joseph a fuller understanding of God’s plan to be among His people through this One called Jesus and Immanuel. [Note: There is good cause to take the angelic quote all the way through verse 23).] With precious insight, we are told He will be called Immanuel—God with us. We need a God who is with us always just as the name Immanuel reminds us and Jesus promised (Matthew 28:20).
Passage: John 18:37Theme: One person we have not yet considered is what Jesus says about Christmas. He finds Himself in a conversational trap with Herod and is asked whether He is a King. Jesus says “for this He was born: to bear witness to the Truth.” We need Christmas because we need truth about God, about ourselves and about this world. Jesus brings truth to all of these and more. We need Christmas!
Passage: Matthew 2:1-6Theme: We get an unlikely source with the chief priests and scribes that we need Christmas because of the promises of God being fulfilled. God’s promises are rich and full. If one of them failed it would be impossible to trust Him for the promise of eternal life. We were promised a Ruler who would shepherd His people in the way to find eternal life and on to victory. We need Christmas for Victory!
Passage: Luke 2:25-35Theme: Simeon, carried along by the Holy Spirit, shows us in another way why we need Christmas. With clarity and insight he reveals God’s promised salvation with Jesus’ birth. He describes this salvation with a strong mood of hope as Light comes for the nations and glory for Israel. By implication there is a great darkness (1:79) in which we find ourselves (see Isaiah 60:1-3). This Light is revelation (truth) in a world filled with lies, hype and spin—hearts are revealed (35). Without this Light, without Christmas, there would be no hope because there would be no truth.
Passage: Luke 1:66-75Zechariah got pulled into the unfolding plan in a most mysterious way and adds an insight into God’s work (the Benedictus). He is filled with the Holy Spirit (67) and gives tremendous insight on these events. God’s visit of His Son is a gracious act of redemption from our enemies (the world, the flesh activated by sin and the devil) so that we would be freed up to worship Him. Without Christmas we would be trapped and controlled by our enemies, not least sin! Being delivered, the goal is that we would serve God without fear.
Passage: Luke 1:46-55 Theme: Mary is thunderstruck with the announcement that God chose her to bear the holy offspring. In her exuberance and by the Spirit, she gives us a unique insight into the work of God. She understands what God is doing and she breaks out in praise (the Magnificat) to the Almighty One, […]
Passage: Philippians 3:12-17 Theme: God changes us when we persevere. So many Christians today are fainthearted and weak. We know that trials and tribulations bring about perseverance . . . and hope which does not disappoint. The word is an anchor for our soul and so few Christians know the Word, the promises of […]
Passage: 1 Peter 1:22-25 Theme: God’s Spirit enables us to obey; love supernaturally, and overcome the world. But how does this happen? We see change take place when we practice repentance and live by faith. What keeps us from change? A failure to keep a posture of humility (repentance) and an unwillingness to trust God […]
Passage: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8 Theme: Change feels impossible and sometimes we wonder whether deep, resilient change can really happen. The gospel promises the power of God to change us from the inside out. This process is often painful and always gradual, but significantly purposeful.
Passage: Romans 11:25-32 Theme: With God’s plans, purposes and promises there is mystery. It is this mystery that moves against any possible snobbery (25). The mystery is openly revealed—Jews and Gentiles are co-heirs, equal beneficiaries of the promises of God. God’s plan brings hope to all the world and healing to those who believe. Tucked […]
Passage: Romans 11:11-16 Theme: The gospel is now unshackled and spreads “riches” throughout the world as Israel stumbled and fell. The Gospel brings hope, freedom and deliverance and will one day again bring “greater riches” to Israel. With a Gospel turn towards the entire world, maybe Israel would become envious and turn back to God’s […]
Passage: Romans 11:1-10 Theme: Rejection is a terrible thing. God has not rejected His people and there is evidence for this statement. However, the issue is God’s electing, redeeming love received as justification came by faith. God did harden His people, but it is not permanent and it is not hopeless.
Passage: Romans 10:14-21 Theme: Telling and showing the story of Jesus is essential. Through a string of questions that begin with tellers being sent and ending with people far from God getting delivered, but what about Israel? Have they heard? Yes, read Moses, read the psalms. Stripping all excuses, a stubborn rebellion persisted. We should […]
Passage: Romans 10:1-13 Theme: If chapter 9 focused on God’s plans and purposes, we now see the human condition and factors. The gospel becomes front and central—Christ is the telos (goal, end, or termination, etc.) of the OT. Jesus is our Righteousness! Even while others look for alternative ways to be or find Righteousness such […]
Passage: Romans 10:1-13 Theme: If chapter 9 focused on God’s plans and purposes, we now see the human condition and factors. The gospel becomes front and central—Christ is the telos (goal, end, or termination, etc.) of the OT. Jesus is our Righteousness! Even while others look for alternative ways to be or find Righteousness such […]
Passage: Romans 9:14-33 Theme: With anguish and sorrow over people far from God and due to His electing, sovereign ways it forces three questions: is God unjust? And Is God fair? What can be said? To choose some for salvation and overlook others by looks like a failure of justice. Not when we look through […]
Passage: Romans 9:14-33 Theme: With anguish and sorrow over people far from God and due to His electing, sovereign ways it forces three questions: is God unjust? And Is God fair? What can be said? To choose some for salvation and overlook others by looks like a failure of justice. Not when we look through […]
Passage: Romans 9:1-13 Theme: The church at Rome was filled with Gentile and Jewish believers. With the gospel being a central part of the letter, it surfaced many questions, not least, What about the Jews? (or anyone else far from God for that matter!) There is also no denying that this section of Romans (9-11) […]
Passage: Romans 9:1-13 Theme: The church at Rome was filled with Gentile and Jewish believers. With the gospel being a central part of the letter, it surfaced many questions, not least, What about the Jews? (or anyone else far from God for that matter!) There is also no denying that this section of Romans (9-11) […]
Passage: Psalm 127 Theme: For Labor Day the psalmist lays out a contrast between blessing and vanity. This wisdom psalm brings a response among the wise to be God-centered and puts everything else in perspective, including work. As we understand a life yielded to God, we see the blessings of the Lord on the family.
Passage: Psalm 127 Theme: For Labor Day the psalmist lays out a contrast between blessing and vanity. This wisdom psalm brings a response among the wise to be God-centered and puts everything else in perspective, including work. As we understand a life yielded to God, we see the blessings of the Lord on the family.
Passage: Revelation 3:11-13 Theme: There is an exhortation for the church to persevere (“hold fast”), to press on and to keep pressing on in the right things. No one wants to be disqualified or lose the crown of life. Rather we seek to be overcomers. As FVC looks at Why Church Now, we want […]
Passage: Revelation 3:11-13 Theme: There is an exhortation for the church to persevere (“hold fast”), to press on and to keep pressing on in the right things. No one wants to be disqualified or lose the crown of life. Rather we seek to be overcomers. As FVC looks at Why Church Now, we want […]
Passage: Revelation 3:14-22 Theme: Why church Now? The simple answer is “Jesus is knocking now!” There is an urgency now that will not last forever. But the “knock” is not merely about salvation, but the sustaining nature of the church—people white-hot for Jesus. God wants our hearts to be fully-devoted to him. Jesus reminds […]
Passage: Revelation 3:1-6 Why Church? The church holds the “keys” of life and death. Without faithful churches who tell the story of Jesus, there would be no hope in these crazy times. It is easy to lose sight of the main things that only Jesus controls all things. He will one day return and until […]
Revelation 2:1-7 With little disagreement from which ever vantage point, people recognize that we are in crazy times. Jesus’ plan for hope is the church. But, what church? As part of the crazy, some say the church the church is “out of touch,” others seek long-standing tradition in deciding what church, others have given up […]
Ruth 4:1-22 Boaz stands as a testimony of one to follow because of his wise and prudent negotiations to become a kinsman-redeemer. We can think of other biblical stories that reflect God’s work (e.g. Abraham and Isaac, the exodus, Passover, etc.), so here Boaz takes Ruth as his wife and their first child is born […]
Passage: Ruth 1:1-22 Theme: Broken hearted people start the saga, one death event after another. Soon the tragedy leaves three widows and no heirs—no one to redeem the situation. Vulnerable, hurting, there is only one place to go for hope, security and strength—to the God of Israel and His people.
Passage: Ephesians 6:1-3 Children take their lead from the mother and father. So, if there is a breakdown of order or authority, the child(ren) become confused. Also, with the breakdown comes fear and anxiety. A home where faith is lived out and nurtured brings hope, joy and peace.
Hebrews 11:8-11 This first message lays the foundation for the family, looking at Abraham and Sarah believing the promises of God. Even though they did not yet receive all that was promised they led with hope and confidence in God and his plan. The family is where we learn about faith, authority and bonding to […]
Passage: Mark 5:24-34 Theme: Mark captures the story with an amazing line: “Jesus kept looking to see.” He is interested in God’s work, but then Jesus listened to her entire story. Perhaps one of the best ways we can show people dignity is to listen without judging. So, as we think of 3-D Living, part […]
Passage: John 5:1-15 Theme: Jesus shows a pattern of loving people. Jesus met with people where they were. Jesus listened, touched, and reached out to them. He initiated. He engaged! In this encounter, Jesus sees a man who is lame (aren’t we all!) and takes the initiative and asks, “do you want to get well?” […]
Passage: Proverbs 1:7-9 Moms bring powerful perspective and wisdom. It is the wise son or daughter who listens and seeks the counsel of his or her mother. It is through a godly mother that children learn to fear God and live to live for a greater reward. Moms blaze the way towards true kingdom living […]
Passage: Romans 8:31-39 Since God is working on our behalf, we have great confidence nothing can ultimately work against His plan. Amazingly, Jesus is praying for us every step of the way. We are reminded that nothing can separate us from God’s love and we are more than conquerors through Jesus.
Passage: Romans 8:28-39 The strength and power of God’s love allows us to persevere. We are reminded that God is providentially at work in ways that we will never see and never know, but will work out for our good.
Passage: John 5:24-27 Jesus, even just mentioning His name, raises controversy. It is true today as it was then. But He responds to those who stands opposed to His claims. With a firm directness, Jesus lays it all out there: eternal life is through the Son of God. The beauty is that He provides […]
Passage: Matthew 21:10-11 The question that stands out on Palm Sunday is Who is He? With such diversity in the crowd, it is no surprise. As people come from all over the RE, those to know Him best would be from Galilee. That question, Who is He?, echoes through history. He is certainly a prophet, […]
Passage: Romans 8:18-27 The Spirit is the first fruits of our future glory! Suffering and glory are two strong themes to hold together as though wedded with no possibility of divorce. First there is the suffering and glory of God’s creation; and secondly, the suffering and glory of God’s people. It helps to know […]
Passage: Romans 8:1-17 The ministry of God’s Spirit first of all reminds us that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. The Spirit brings freedom, gives us His mind, grants us power and serves as a witness that we belong to God. The Spirit is our Comforter and given as a gift […]
Passage: Psalm 49 The psalmist speaks to all people and takes wealth head on and sets it in the context of everyone’s future—death. Should we put our confidence in wealth for our future? Our hope and confidence cannot be in wealth for that is utter foolishness (49:13-14). Only God provides certainty and hope as proved […]
Passage: Romans 7:14-25 The weakness of the Law is that the Law cannot be responsible for our holiness either. We all experience the inner struggle: what I want to do I do not do. Our deliverance comes through Jesus Christ!
Passage: Romans 7:1-13 The Law could not do what Christ did! Significantly we have been released from the Law and joined to Christ. The Law exposes sin, provokes sin and condemns sin. The issue is sin, not the Law!
Romans 6:1-23 Theme: With the powerful truth that we have been saved from the penalty of sin (guilt and shame of all sin removed), even the wrath of God, it raises a question, “shall we go on sinning?” (6:1, 15) The amazing reality is that Christ’s death on our behalf has also broke the POWER […]
Passage: Romans 5:12-21 Since the universal impact of sin, there is a great divide between “being in Adam” and “being in Christ.” One brings death (judgment and condemnation) and the other brings life (reconciliation and righteousness)! With the contrast and comparison of Adam and Christ, we can better appreciate the work of God through His […]
Passage: Romans 5:1-11 A surprising move of God is that He would declare rebels right with Him based on a crucified messiah. With layers of revelations flowing from good news, what are the benefits of justification by grace alone through faith alone, in Christ alone? While the benefits are many, the letter focuses us on […]
Passage: John 15:1-8 Jesus lived the Word. He quoted, taught, explained, preached, loved and obeyed the Word, but with penetrating insight. “Abiding” is not just knowing the Word or memorizing the Word, but “abiding” is allowing the Word to take root in our souls and shape us, such that we are set apart for Kingdom impact. […]
Passage: Matthew 6:9-13 Jesus lived a life of prayer. The connection between prayer and the power, miracles and the laser-like focus of His ministry is unmistakable. No wonder He exhorted His followers to pray and to pray unceasingly Prayer is absolutely essential for Kingdom Impact. Difference Makers pray because they know the power of God-centered, kingdom-centered prayer.
Passage: Matthew 13:44-52 Jesus lived with strong kingdom focus! Jesus compared the kingdom to a treasure that is more valuable than anything else in this world and showed the supreme importance of the kingdom perspective because of eternal destinies at stake. Difference Makers are people who maintain a kingdom focus.
Genesis 18:1-15 Christ wants to be in the center of our families, working more and more miracles, showing more and more of His power. When Christ is at the center it means we are not. It means that God is on the throne and we are not on the throne calling the shots. Christ at […]
Passage: John 2:13-17; Isaiah 9:6-7 Feast times were really important in Israel, especially Passover. With all the challenges of travel and preparations, many things could distract people from keeping God at the Center in worship. Many came to Jerusalem to worship and with all the energy, commerce and excitement, people exchanged the most […]
Passage: Luke 14:7-14 The Christmas season is festive, bringing lots of opportunities for social gatherings. It is easy to become inward focused and make it about us. But Christmas is a time for humility in which we put others first and there are many opportunities to be generous. We honor Christ at Christmas, or better, have […]
Passage: John 12:1-8 Christmas often becomes secularized or commercialized. How can Christ be at the center when it comes to our celebrations? At a dinner celebration (likely a banquet), we see Jesus becomes the focus as Mary anoints him. He makes a bold clear statement, “You do not always have me.” Said a little differently, we won’t […]
Passage: Mark 6:31-46 The Christmas season can be a very busy, demanding and tiring time. Jesus said to the disciples who were weary from ministry demands, “come away and rest.” However, this didn’t go as planned and crowds of people followed them, to the point that the disciples grew demanding. But Jesus turned the tables and said, “no, you […]
The Christmas season affords us new opportunities to live on mission. By telling the story of Jesus as God opens the door, it allows us to bring light and hope to people. A big part of keeping Christ at the center is praying, planning and preparing for ways to tell people about the real […]
Passage: Romans 4:1-25 Theme: Chapter four becomes an illustration of God’s righteousness through the great patriarch Abraham. The Thrust is that we are made right with God through faith for there is no other way. But it is not “faith” that saves, but faith in God’s grace. Thus, it is grace and grace alone! We are so […]
Passage: Romans 3:21-31 Theme: The Righteousness of God (also in 1:17) has been revealed through faith in Jesus Christ. We could dwell on that one statement and never appreciate all that was done through our Lord against all unrighteousness. Being right with God is 1) by his grace, 2) through the Cross and 3) by faith. It […]
Passage: Romans 3:9-20 Theme: Every human being throughout human history is found to fall short of God’s glory, for there is NO ONE RIGHTEOUS. There is an “anti-God” posture in all of us; we are rebels by nature and by choice. There is a de-godding of God, a dethronement and then a move to make ourselves front and center. We rob God of […]
Theme: With the critique of all people, the focus shifts to self-confident Jews. There is a pride that comes with being Jewish: relying on the law, bragging about a relationship with God, knowing God’s will, approving what is superior, instructed by the law, and understanding truth and righteousness. There can be an unhealthy ethnic pride in […]
Theme: Since we all have a “past,” we try to find ways to remove our guilt and shame, but it is not by our efforts, but by faith in God’s provision—Jesus Christ. Our greatest problem is we are under the wrath of God because of our sin. God alone provides the way forward and frees us from our shame. What joy! […]
Theme: The Apostle Paul tells the church that he is “under obligation” to tell the story of Jesus, eager to get out there and do it! And he is not embarrassed or ashamed to name the name of Jesus every where he goes. Do you have those same obligations to the gospel? Passage: Romans 1:14-17
Paul’s prayer was not mere “throw away” words or just a polite beginning to the letter, but a reminder of the deep connections in this church because of Christ and through the gospel. Romans 1:8-13
Theme: What makes the good news so powerful is that the bad news is so very bad! The pinnacle of the good news is the person of Jesus Christ, God dwelling among us in human flesh. He wants to change us, our families and even the world. Romans 1:1-7
This is part two in a three-part series. Listen to parts one and three. America ranks 110th in the world for providing affordable access to justice. It is imperative to not just think about, or pray for these matters, but to DO something about it. Which of these three do you think was a neighbor […]
This is part one of a three-part series. Listen to parts two and three. We all have a sense that this is not the way things are supposed to be. We ‘know’ when something is not right, good or just. Somehow, we have an innate passion, even if vague and not well put together, […]
Jesus gives his followers two invitations: come to him those who have burdens of fears, anxieties, lack of purpose, temptations, responsibilities, loneliness and more. He will give rest. Then, take his yoke and learn from him. That is, become a student and learn from him how to live in freedom. Matthew 11:25-30
The forty-five year history of Fox Valley Church speaks to a spiritual people who have persevered to tell and show the story of Jesus. “God has acted, he has done it” will reverberate around the world. All of this is built on the character of God who is good and His steadfast love is always faithful. Psalm 22:30-31
It is not easy to build a resilient faith. It is in our family unit that we learn to worship, pray, build relationships and tell and show the story of Jesus. It is never easy. God has given us a “playbook” so that we can develop the skills, creatively work as a family and lead […]
We are members of God’s household. As Spirit filled members we are to do good to all people. The church is uniquely positioned to do good because God has revealed himself to the Church through Jesus. Galatians 6:7-10
At Fox Valley Church our vision is a Christ-centered Revolution of Transformation by the power of the Holy Spirit. But what does that look like on Monday morning, at 6 o’clock, when the alarm goes off and you have to go to work? It is often in the context of marriage and family that we […]
Jonah was displeased and angry that God’s mercy could extend to even the Assyrians. He tasted God’s grace but did not want his enemies delivered from destruction. Living with disappointment and anger is never the way of God. God’s way is a one of FAITH, not doubt. Faith is the satisfied assurance that God […]
Jonah obeyed the Lord and went to preach in Nineveh. Though his message is brief, Jonah becomes a dynamic prophet by God’s power. God uses people that are faithful, intentional and teachable. He sends revival as he pleases. God will use us as we are in step with his Spirit. Jonah 3
Jonah: The Disciplined Prophet God gets Jonah’s attention (it’s called discipline!) Jonah turns to God, but there is a lingering question, “just how repentant is Jonah?” We can easily see ourselves in this narrative. Repentance precedes revival. Jonah 2
God says “go.” Jonah will have none of it! He cries, “send someone else!” and runs away from God. How often have we run away from God? God will have none of Jonah’s pouting – or ours; he loves us too much. Jonah 1
John is now given some unfolding realities of the call to follow Jesus by an eternal gospel. There is a coming destruction (even as Jesus prophesied) that will end in judgment for those who follow the beast. These things were written so that we could understand the times and faithfully Christ through all trials […]
We live in a “super-hero” era for Dads. We work, cook, clean, help with the kids, etc…”do everything.” In many ways Dads are to be commended for this but there is also a danger. So many men are distracted and anxious/upset about so many things trying to be the “super-hero, do everything” dad. Taking a page from Martha […]
John is given a vision of the Lamb standing with believers in victory over Satan. Here we find the Lamb’s name and his Father’s on the forehead of believers in contrast to the mark of the beast. While this is an earthly scene it marvelously points to the future reality of when Jesus returns as King! […]
In a year and a half with many reasons to lose hope, God offers true, lasting hope. Paul’s prayer for you is this: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
John continues to see how the devil will wage war as the second beast, a false prophet emerges. Some will identify with the beast (take the “mark”) and follow him—choosing death; others will follow Christ and choose life. As in all things, believers show their allegiance to only one by standing firm, hanging together, and […]
John now begins to see how the devil will wage war as two figures emerge on the scene to create a false trinity by the power the dragon gives. The first beast emerges from the sea to deceive and mislead Christ-followers through all means possible and with great displays of power. Revelation 13:1b-10
With a raging dragon, the war spills from heaven to earth where he seeks to destroy God’s people. So much of what we experience today of pain, hardship, suffering, and conflict is incited by the dragon. Christians find hope, victory by Jesus’ blood and perseverance through the encouragement of other Christians. The key is how […]
There is a strong contrast between the world’s thoughts and ways and God’s. Being a mom that follows Christ means that you have a new power, with a new mind that moves you to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. God arms you to face all the challenges and hardships of being a […]
The sign John receives opens up with a graphic picture of the birth of the promised Messiah and the dragon (the serpent of old who is called the devil and Satan) ready to devour the child! This sets up the spiritual battle in which we live as we discover the identity of the dragon and […]
The gospel shapes all that we do and is the engine of Fox Valley Church. But what is the gospel? Paul tells us very clearly the key features of this good news that our culture needs to hear and we need to live. This outward focus is the third purpose of the church that Jesus set […]
Relationships matter because people matter. Unity in relationships is a key mark of the Spirit. But relationships are difficult, whether in our families or the church. God knows this and still calls us to an inward focus with others through humility, gentleness, and patience. We live this out through Life Groups and our value of meaningful relationships. Ephesians 4:1-6
Jesus said, I will build my church. He did so with explosive power through the Spirit. This creates an upward focus; lived out by our values of the Word, worship and prayer.
Something happened 2000 years ago that changed the world. It may even be said that Jesus would have been long forgotten if it wasn’t for one historical event—his resurrection. People could not stop talking about it. It changed lives; it changed eternal destinies.
Jesus is on mission, fulfilling the Word. Many see it, some miss it and some are frightened by it. We exemplify this same mission as we live out our four core values: Preeminence of God’s Word; Primacy of Worship and Prayer; Priority of Meaningful Relationships and Passion for World and Local Outreach.
Jesus is the pinnacle of God’s redemptive mission. Jesus is the only way into this new community of redeemed people. Therefore, our mission, one given to us with great authority and power, is to tell and show the story of Jesus.
God’s heart is on fire for mission, a redemptive mission, not wanting any to perish. Fox Valley Church is part of God’s redemptive work with our vision of a revolution of transformation by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Taking the Lord’s Supper provides opportunity to receive the grace of God that impacts us both in our vertical relationship with God and our horizontal relationships with each other. However, this time can be abused and misunderstood. The Apostle Paul unpacks the importance of love and unity in the church.
As in the church we lead with mission, so in our families. It tells all in the family who is the real leader of the home (Jesus) and a key purpose: to make disciples. He wants us to live life with others so that we can show them Christ in us.
The Family structure is one of relationships. Relationships require communication and every family has its own style. As we listen to God and seek to love one another in the family, we need to develop healthy forms of communication.
Jesus said, “by this you will know my disciples, by their love for one another. As we listen to God, we need to LOVE ONE ANOTHER. With “love in the air” this Valentine’s Day we need to love by faith, love when we don’t feel like it, love when the world says you don’t have […]
There are two kinds of people: the one who does not have the Spirit and does not understand the things of God; and the one who does have the Spirit and understands the things of God. However, three aspects of our humanity often get in the way of living by the Spirit: 1) fear; 2) […]
Jesus challenges his followers with the cost of being a true disciple. In the process, He draws upon time-tested principles of wise financial management. It’s not just about loosening the grip your hands have on your wallet, but also loosening the grip idols have on your heart. Learn how to shift our hearts and our […]
Since there are only three uses of money: spending, saving and giving, it is the spending that can easily get out of control. Too often, we seek a lifestyle that is beyond our means and exceeds our income. Debt is a symptom of other attitudes we have that hinder our perspective of God, the good […]
We need to do some soul-searching about our attitudes towards money. Financial independence often creates the attitude of me , mine, myself. What if our attitude shifted towards God and his plan? What if we saw him as the provider and that we need to steward what he entrusts to us?
Financial fitness begins with the heart and is a matter of honor. Who or what will you honor with your money? We can even ask it this way, who is the lord and leader of your life? As we begin a new year it is important to set a fresh course as we consider financial […]
Covenant marriage between one man and one woman for one lifetime is the foundation of the family God intended. How can we guard against a culture that devalues marriage, promotes sexual freedom, and misuses social media? The answer is listening to God. We need to listen to God daily as we seek to walk in his […]