Pierce Point Community Church: Recent Episodes
Pierce Point Community Church
Week 7: The Fullness of God on Display (Ephesians 3:14-21) (NATHAN) Mar. 3 - Paul's prayer for inner strength - Christ dwelling in our hearts - The breadth, length, height, and depth of God's love
Week 6: The Mystery of the Gospel (Ephesians 3:1-13) (DYLAN) Feb. 25 - The revelation of the mystery - Paul's role as a steward of God's grace - The inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan
In this message, Nathan reveals what makes a person chosen or predestined. *Hint: Calvinism is wrong.
Good morning, church. Today, I have an important announcement. One that’s difficult but also exciting.As some of you know, I’ve spent the last twenty-five years in ministry. The last fourteen of which, have been dedicated to planting and building Pierce Point. For those doing the math in your head, that’s right, I started when I was just nineteen years old. As you all know, (show ministry meme) with ministry comes a very close relational element that element includes blessings along with challenges.Seven years ago, our church went through the most significant of these challenges: a church split. That challenge fundamentally changed me as a person. Though not all of you were here to experience it, those who were know very well the profound wounding I and my family experienced. Repeatedly over the past seven years, I have been met with—what feels to me—a recurrence of this wounding on micro levels. Multiple families and individuals deciding to leave our church family. Some have been willing to speak with me about their decision. Many do not. (And an even smaller number allow their opinion to be better informed) Adding to this, the repeated feedback that we do receive focuses on me personally and on perceived disappointments in my care or leadership.With each person or family who walks away, I am forced to relive misconceptions, mistruths, and accusations against my character that I endured during the church split. Each time another person or family—whom I’ve poured love and help into—blames me for their dissatisfaction and accuses my care of not being enough, it becomes more difficult to recover emotionally.I find myself relating to Scriptures such as Proverbs 16:28 (A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.) and Psalm 55:12-14 (If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were rising against me, I could hide. But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God as we walked about among the worshipers.). As time passes and these instances continue, my ability to bear up under this weight has diminished to the point where I am unable to continue. Please understand I love what I do, church. I know what gifts have been given to me. I know how God has used them. I know the care I’ve given and the man that I am. But I also know the toll that this takes and the healing I need.So, I’ve created a strategy for that healing and it begins with stepping down from leadership and focusing the strengths and skills that God has gifted me with in a new and different arena. My goal will be what it always has been: seeing people grow, but it will be achieved in a way that allows me to heal and recover some of the joy I lost. I owe this to my family.Moving forward, I will be focusing on the launch of a coaching business in which Steph (whom most of you know) and I will work to bring life, purpose, and clarity through meaning and worldview coaching. Also, with the approval that I’ve been given by the leadership here, we’ll be offering more traditional forms of coaching and Christian counseling to individuals, couples, and/or families through the church.
The Scriptures:Our journey begins with the foundational belief in the Scriptures as the inspired and authoritative Word of God. These sixty-six books, Old and New Testaments, guide our faith and provide the complete revelation of God's will (2 Tim. 3:16-17).
Reflection:As we delve into the significance of understanding and articulating our beliefs, consider the profound impact our convictions have on our lives. Let's take a moment to reflect on a practical example of how our beliefs shape our actions and decisions.Imagine you believe in the inherent value and dignity of every person, a belief grounded in the understanding that each individual is created in the image of God. This belief has a tangible impact on how you treat others. In your daily interactions, you are more likely to extend kindness and respect to everyone you encounter, regardless of differences.This belief influences your decisions at work. It affects your relationships, prompting you to build connections that reflect the love and acceptance you believe God has for each person. In challenging moments, this conviction becomes a source of strength, guiding you to respond with grace and forgiveness. For a church it fosters a community that loves one another, celebrates one another, and even corrects one another in gentleness. Now, consider how articulating this belief not only shapes your own character but also serves as a powerful witness to others. Your actions become a testament to the transformative power of your faith, creating opportunities to share the love of Christ with those around you.Why “What We Believe” Matters:1. The Significance of Understanding:Last week I taught about the trinity of meaning… Proverbs 4:7 reminds us that the beginning of wisdom is to seek understanding. How can a deeper comprehension of our beliefs contribute to our spiritual growth and maturity?2. The Importance of Articulating Beliefs:You learn more by teaching…In 1 Peter 3:15, we are encouraged to always be prepared to give an answer for the hope within us. How does expressing our beliefs not only deepen our own understanding but also become a means of sharing our faith with others?3. In what ways can a deeper understanding of the key beliefs outlined in the series enhance your experience of God's love? (Ephesians 3:18)
The Epistle to the Ephesians is a captivating letter. It unfolds like a cosmic drama woven with threads of divine warfare and celestial tension. In exploring the contours of Ephesians, one is beckoned into a narrative that transcends the ordinary and plunges into the extraordinary depths of spiritual reality. Today, we embark on a 12-week journey through the mystical tapestry of Ephesians, unraveling its timeless truths.
In today’s world, we are facing an overarching challenge — a crisis of meaning. This crisis reflects a widespread disorientation, where traditional centers of meaning, such as churches and temples, no longer have the influence they once had. Today I want to talk about this meaning crisis, exploring its implications, embracing what I will call “the trinity of meaning,” looking at the decline of traditional institutions, and proposing a revitalization rather than abandonment of these centers.
As we embark on this Advent journey, our hearts are drawn to the central theme that encapsulates the essence of the season – love. Today, we delve into the profound and multifaceted nature of love, exploring the different dimensions as revealed in the Scriptures and illuminated by the insights of C.S. Lewis in his book "The Four Loves."
As we delve into the theme of peace today, during this second week of exploration, let's turn our attention to the profound significance of faith in attaining true peace, particularly within the context of the Christmas story. The angels' proclamation in Luke 2:14 resounds with the promise of peace on earth, but to whom is this offer extended? According to the Scriptures, it is given to those on whom God's favor rests. So, how do we find favor with God? The answer lies in the words of Hebrews 11:6: "Without faith, it is impossible to please God." As we unravel the layers of this divine connection between faith and peace, we'll journey through the Christmas narrative and explore the title given to Jesus as the Prince of Peace in Isaiah 9:6.
The Art of Doing Good - Part 2Today we learn what happens when our drives are and are not working well.
The Art of Doing Good - The ConceptsToday, we look at several essential concepts in the pursuit of doing good!
"True forgiveness gives up the right to demand repayment. True repentance gives up the right to permanently close a door and not deal with the wounds that you caused." - Nathan Franckhauser
In this message, Nathan deals with the profound and complicated concepts of forgiveness and reconciliation. These are not mere words or feel-good sentiments that we should mentally ascend to as Christians; they are, in fact, decisive actions that have been given to mend the deepest wounds and restore the most broken relationships.C.S. Lewis said, "We all agree that forgiveness is a beautiful idea until we have to practice it." (- From "On Forgiveness" in "The Weight of Glory and Other Addresses")
Today Pastor Nathan shares why we need redemption stories in life and why we ultimately need the redemption offered through Jesus to all mankind!
Imago Dei (Image of God) It’s not our ____________________ or ____________. It’s not our ____________________. It’s not the possession of a ________ or ___________. It is, however, our ____________ as ___________________.
7 Days and God’s Temple Philia Sophia (______ ________ ____ ____________) Philia Nikia (______ ________ ____ ____________)
When God Began An ______________________ clause is a grammatically complete thought. A __________________ clause is a group of words that don’t express a complete thought. A ______________________ ________________ clause is one that gives essential information that defines a corresponding noun or noun phrase. Genesis 1:1-3 “________ ______ __________ to create the heavens and the Earth—the Earth being formless and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep, and a wind of God was fluttering over the face of the waters—God said, “Let there be light.” And there was light.”
Beginnings
Hebrew “bǝrēʾšît bārāʾ ʾǝlōhîm ʾēt haššāmayim wǝʾēt hāʾāres.” - Genesis 1:1 In beginning created God the Heavens (sky) and the Earth (land). - Genesis 1:1
Septuagint (LXX) “ἐν ἀρχῇ ἐποίησεν ὁ θεὸς τὸν οὐρανὸν καὶ τὴν γῆν.” - Genesis 1:1 “In beginning created the God the heavens and the Earth.” - Genesis 1:1
“The unacknowledged heresy underlying most Modern English versions of the Bible is the use of translation as a vehicle for explaining the Bible instead of representing it in another language, and in the most egregious circumstances this amounts to explaining away the Bible.” - Robert Alter
Philosophy and Theology • Philosophy is the study of the fundamental nature of __________________, ______________, and __________________, especially when considered as an academic discipline. (A philosopher is one who “strives for meaning.) • Theology is the study if the nature of ______ and __________________ ____________. (Lit. “Thinking about God.”) •Worldview is a particular ____________________ of life or ____________________ of the world. “See to it that no one takes you captive through ____________ and __________________ ____________________, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.” - Colossians 2:8
Genesis Series: Week 1 The Order of Belief
Stats: • Pew Research 2021: ____ in ____ U.S. Adults identify as “nones.” • Gallop Research 2022: A ____% drop in U.S. Adults who believe in God from 2017. • Barna: Syncretism - the amalgamation or attempted amalgamation of different religions, cultures, or schools of thought. The Order of Belief • Propositional Knowing - Knowing __________ ____________. • Procedural Knowing - Knowing ______ ____ ____ ____________. • Perspectival Knowing - Knowing ______ ____ ______________ ____________. • Participatory Knowing - Knowing ______ ____ ____________ ____ ______ __________. Stats: • Pew Research 2021: ____ in ____ U.S. Adults identify as “nones.” • Gallop Research 2022: A ____% drop in U.S. Adults who believe in God from 2017. • Barna: Syncretism - the amalgamation or attempted amalgamation of different religions, cultures, or schools of thought. The Order of Belief • Propositional Knowing - Knowing __________ ____________. • Procedural Knowing - Knowing ______ ____ ____ ____________. • Perspectival Knowing - Knowing ______ ____ ______________ ____________. • Participatory Knowing - Knowing ______ ____ ____________ ____ ______ __________.
Today Jacob shares a very important message about the value of the family of God's Church.
Today Pastor Nathan shares a connection between God resing on the seventh day of creation and declaring "it is finished" on the cross.
In this week's message, pastor Nathan Franckhauser shares an important answer to the question of what was finished by Jesus on the cross.
With Paul’s help, we too, have begun to discover what it looks like to preserve unity while celebrating the differents among us—to preserve God’s world-changing social experiment—the Church. Learning how to bring unlikes and differents to the same table to share life as a new kind of family. While also recognizing that when we do this, we show the world what love, justice, peace, reconciliation, and life together are designed by God to be.
Today we take a look at one last question—what makes thriving (in this pursuit) possible. We don’t merely want to survive, we all want to thrive. God’s answer to this question is that we thrive, as a celebration of differents, when we walk according to the Spirit submitting to His work in our lives.
In this series we’ve been discovering what it looks like to preserve unity all the while celebrating the differents among us—learning how to preserve God’s world-changing social experiment—the Church. Learning how to bring unlikes and differents to the same table to share life as a new kind of family. All the while recognizing that when we do this, we show the world what love, justice, peace, reconciliation, and life together are designed by God to be.
Up to this point, we’ve talked about the need for grace and love in accomplishing this goal. For a more in depth look at those two ideas you can go back and listen to the messages online. I also address the issue of love in this week's “Critically Biblical” podcast. I take a practical approach to 1 Corinthians 13 and the components of love within Paul’s immediate context. I encourage you to check that out as it has everything to do with what we’re talking about in our series.
Today (although grace and love will always be mainstays) we’re going to shift our focus to the new life we’ve been given in King Jesus.
The Apostle Paul explained love to the Corinthians when he wrote the words,
“Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.” - 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a
In this amazing section of scripture, Paul was (as always) writing within a particular context. In this case, it was a context fitting for our series. God’s people needed to accept and celebrate the manifold gifts that He’d bestowed on them. However, and as is often the case, the Corinthians accepted and celebrated only those gifts they understood.
Toward the end of Paul’s teaching, he says that he wants to show the Corinthians a more excellent way—the way of love. What was “more excellent” than the giftings each individual possessed was the love that would bind all those gifted differents together.
What are the necessary components for preserving unity—for living at peace in this family that God has adopted us into? Over the remaining weeks, we’ll be talking about several of these components: grace, love, and new life, all designed to help us flourish within God’s family. Today we look at grace.
In this series we are going to understand what it means to be at peace and unified as a collection of differents while learning to celebrate those differences. Then, we will be equipped to show the world God's grand plan. Our series is titled "A Celebration of Differents" and today’s message is “What is the Church supposed to be?”
In week one of our series we talked about how our Bible came to be. Last week we zeroed in on inspiration. And this week we’re going to take a hard look at the Bible as an authority. After all, if the Bible is inspired, it should have some authority in our lives, right?
But—and here’s where the debate starts—how precisely is the Bible an authority and how do we live under such authority? Is the Bible equally authoritative and therefore prescriptive in all its parts? How do we separate God’s authority, biblical authority, and the authority of the interpreter?
Many Christian’s believe the fundamental concern is about inspiration or inerrancy, but that’s not the case. Very few groups outright reject inspiration and inerrancy. The real problem is whether or not the Bible is authoritative.
The series we’re in right now is called seven things every Christian should know about the Bible. Last week we learned about how the Bible came to be. We looked at translation, canonicity, and briefly about inspiration—which is where we will spend our time today.
That said, the second thing you need to know about the Bible is as simple as this; the Bible is inspired. However, it’s also a complicated idea and you may be surprised as to what inspiration means. Along with inspiration we’ll also discuss the claim of inerrancy (or infallibility). So let’s jump right in.
Today we begin a new series titled, “7 Things Christians Should Know About Their Bibles.” This series draws from some really great books, all of which I highly recommend.
Seven Things I Wish Christians Knew about the Bible - Michael F. Bird How to Read the Bible for all it’s Worth - Gordon Fee Know How We Got Our Bible - Dr. Ryan M. Reeves The Expositor’s Bible Commentary - Volume 1 (Textual Criticism) - Bruce K. Waltke
WHY DOES THIS SERIES MATTER? (Series overview)
Michael F. Bird said it best, “It is one thing to read the Bible, it is quite another thing to understand it, and it is still another thing to use it responsibly.”
Last week we talked about the rather shocking condition of the American church. There are reasons that come along with the statistics of declining faith in America. One reason I find particularly important to this series centers around skepticism and doubt. When asked why they had abandoned their faith—and more specifically, the Church—Millennials responded with a rather unified answer: the Church isn’t answering their questions concerning doubt.
How does this reason fit in with our series? Simply put, reading, understanding, and using our Bible responsibly is critical to answering those questions and doubts. It’s my view that many of the questions being asked can’t be answered because we—the Church—either don’t understand our Bibles or we don’t use them responsibly. This lack on our part leaves people with more questions than when they began.
*First Takeaway: We need to read, understand, and use our Bibles responsibly if we are to stem the tide of apostasy and answer the skeptics' questions.
Today is week 4 of our series Paul, Women, and Wives - The Role of Women in Ministry. This morning we’re going to look at one of the more controversial passages within the debate—1 Corinthians 14:34-35. The word of God says:
“The women are to keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but are to subject themselves, just as the Law also says. If they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to speak in church.” - 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 NASB1995
Like I said, quite controversial, right?
Who's At Work in Sanctification?
Full Q & A: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvPXvyZE_lY
“My brethren, do not hold your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism. 2 For if a man comes into your assembly with a gold ring and dressed in fine clothes, and there also comes in a poor man in dirty clothes, 3 and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the fine clothes, and say, “You sit here in a good place,” and you say to the poor man, “You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool,” 4 have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil motives? 5 Listen, my beloved brethren: did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor man. Is it not the rich who oppress you and personally drag you into court? 7 Do they not blaspheme the fair name by which you have been called? 8 If, however, you are fulfilling the royal law according to the Scripture, “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF,” you are doing well. 9 But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all. 11 For He who said, “DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY,” also said, “DO NOT COMMIT MURDER.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but do commit murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. 12 So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. 13 For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment.” - James 2:1-13 NASB1995
What makes a piece of news... good? Think about this with me for a moment. We don’t call a newspaper a good newspaper. It’s just a newspaper. Now, something within that newspaper may be good, but only when it’s beneficial to us. So what makes news good is a personal benefit.
This same thing is true with the Gospel. The word Gospel simply means good news. Thus the message which the Apostle Paul calls God’s power unto salvation (Romans 1:16) is good news precisely because it’s beneficial to us. But more importantly and necessarily, the Gospel is good news because it’s actually beneficial for all people.
I pray you can see this, but if the Gospel is not beneficial to all people, there’s no way we could be sure that it’s beneficial to us at all. What do I mean?
Question 1: Who is Jesus and what part does he play in the godhead?
Question 2: what does it mean for Jesus to be both God and man?
Question 3: Why is it important for Jesus to be incarnate?
Question 4: What does it mean for Jesus to lay down his equality with God and humble himself to the point of death?
Question 5: Why did Jesus need to be baptized?
Question 6: What was the purpose of Jesus's miracles?
Question 7: Why are Jesus's death, burial, and Resurrection vital to the gospel?
Question 8: How can we communicate the person and work of Jesus to a skeptical world?
Question 9: Why is the resurrection an important truth within any gospel presentation?
Question 10: what is one thing about the person and work of Jesus that continues to amaze you personally?
Last week we began a new series through the book of James. As we launched in, we encountered something quite challenging from the start; the express teaching that as Christians, we’re to count the various trials we face as joy—or “all joy” to be more precise. One email I received this week referred to the message as “refreshing, sobering, and joyful.” But, if you missed the definition I gave for joy, you probably didn’t see the massage quite that way. As a matter of fact, your description may be...
This morning I want to talk about one thing in particular—what I’m calling the process of trials. In our time we’ll cover three things: 1. How we’re to look at trials (what I mean is our disposition toward them). Which will lead into 2. the purpose of trials (what do they do?). And finally 3. we’ll learn what to do inside trials (what to do as we endure). (prayer and patience)
This morning I want to talk to you about a relatively large concept—the concept of unity. In the time we have today I want to define what unity truly is, what it looks like (that is some practical outplay), and also how good it is to God. Unity is not to be confused with uniformity, which is something that often masquerades as unity. I’ve said this for years now but unity is not people coming into agreement with one another concerning God. Instead, unity is what results when people agree with God, together. In this sense unity is a byproduct of submission to King Jesus.
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
- Race, Riots and The Gospel - BLOG: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/race-riots-the-gospel/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/good-and-faithful-servant-psalm-11989-96
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/rebuilding/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/unfolding-light-psalm-119129-136
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/unfolding-light-part-1/
- Race, Riots and The Gospel -
BLOG: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/race-riots-the-gospel/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kq5fa3kMs-A
Links: Michael Ramsden - God of Love: God of Judgement? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUazX6wJPgo&feature=youtu.be
Barna Research https://disrn.com/news/barna-58-of-americans-reject-moral-absolutes-46-of-evangelical-christians-agree
Civil Rights and The Church in America https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yq42jOecg8w&feature=youtu.be
Scriptures: Psalm 2
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/anatomy-of-a-prayer-psalm-119145-152
UPDATE: https://www.piercepoint.org/copy-of-what-we-believe
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/righteousness-part-2/
- Christians, Constitution, and COVID-19 -
PART 1: BLOG: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/christians-constitution-covid-19-part-1/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kq5fa3kMs-A
PART 2: Blog: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/christians-constitution-and-covid-19-part-2/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxLGA05dVxQ
Scriptures: Psalm 119:129-136
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/anatomy-of-a-prayer-psalm-119145-152
LAST SUNDAYS DEVOTION: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/weekend-devotions-51720-mark-williams
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/anatomy-of-a-prayer-part-3/
- Christians, Constitution, and COVID-19 -
PART 1: BLOG: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/christians-constitution-covid-19-part-1/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kq5fa3kMs-A
PART 2: Blog: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/christians-constitution-and-covid-19-part-2/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxLGA05dVxQ
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/sum-truth-psalm-119153-160
LAST SUNDAYS DEVOTION: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/weekend-devotion-51020-sean-dick
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/sum-truth-part-2/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/sum-truth-psalm-119153-160
LAST SUNDAYS DEVOTION: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/weekend-devotion-51020-sean-dick
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/sum-truth-part-2/
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/sum-truth-psalm-119153-160
LAST SUNDAYS DEVOTION: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/jacob-dolezal-5-3-2020
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/respect-vs-acceptance/?fbclid=IwAR3wudV54-dQEz9yHcXcWoFuxCToRzqP0eYpLoPb315v1spdfIo7Cjigkto
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
LAST SUNDAYS MESSAGE: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/his-word-endures-forever
LAST SUNDAYS DEVOTION: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/jacob-dolezal-5-3-2020
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/gods-word-our-foundation-part-3/
Today we learn some very important foundations concerning the Word of God.
PPCC WEB: Piercepoint.org
SUNDAY DEVOTION: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/morning-devotion-4_26_2020-mark-williams
ONLINE GIVING: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
NATHANFRANCKHAUSER.COM: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/
The challenge in our faith is that we must mean something by it. To mean something by it, God's promises must be true. This is Biblical hope; God's promises as absolute!
Check out more here:
PPCC Website: Piercepoint.org
Sunday's Message: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/easter-2020-heaven-communion-and-resurrection
Give Online: https://piercepoint.churchcenter.com/giving
Nathan Franckhauser Blog: https://www.nathanfranckhauser.com/resurrection-sunday-2020/
Today we celebrate Easter Sunday. A day meant to reflect on our Lord's resurrection from the dead.
We're not alone in this celebration. Even now, we join together with countless Christians strewn across the unique world that God has made. And although not united by location (even you and me), we are united with each other and all people who call upon the name of King Jesus in order to be saved.
Today I'd like to take you on a bit of a journey. My aim is to expand our understanding of what Easter is all about.
So over the next 30 minutes or so, we're going to connect our understanding of some of the most important concepts in the Scripture (concepts like heaven, God's presence, and His desire to meet with us) WITH Easter, with the death burial and resurrection of Jesus.
This week my newsfeed was inundated with articles asking very common questions in times like these: Questions like, 'Where is God?' 'What is He doing?' 'Why is this happening?' "Is this judgment, sin?' And of course, that also meant I had to wade through some very (let's just say) 'cringe-worthy' theories.
But putting the "answers" of Job's friends where they belong (in the round file), I think we all understand why questions like these happen. As people, we want and even need answers in life. We long for meaning.
Over the past two weeks, we've focused our attention on issues that are of particular importance for our current times. In week one, we looked at what it means to walk by faith instead of fear. Last week, we took a really important look in the mirror to discover what truly sets us apart as Christians. As you'll should recall, what makes us different is not compassion or charity, love, or justice, but instead the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Today, in keeping with these timely issues, we are looking at the question of what constitutes Church; in particular, what it means to assemble together and its sanctifying importance.
Have you ever thought about what sets the Church apart in times like these? What makes you and I (as God's people) genuinely different? Now, just so you know, I'm not talking about some unique "market share" in the world. Something that enables the Church to remain viable as an organization among competing entities. That's all nonsense! Instead, what I'm talking about is an existential difference. A difference that is real. One that has an actual impact on the here and now.
In a way, I'm reflecting on holiness proper with this question. Last week I said that living by fear and not by faith would be to abdicate our responsibility for being set apart. After all, we are not people of the spirit of this world. We have not been given a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7). Instead, we've been given a new Spirit, One of power, love, and discipline. And although this new Spirit will affect every area of life, I also made it clear that Paul was not talking about pandemics in his message to Timothy (but more on that in a bit).
So, the question remains; what truly sets us apart?
Today we're going to answer this question. And the answer we find is no doubt going to challenge us because in identifying what DOES set us apart, we will have to admit and relinquish our bragging rights as to what doesn't set us apart. Another challenge we'll face today is that once we see what DOES set us apart, we're going to have to get busy actually doing it. This is where the context of 2 Timothy 1 and 2 Corinthians 5 come into play.
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
The week of September 11th, 2001, pastors across our nation took to their pulpits to address a populace in panic. A nation confused about the future after one of the most horrific attacks carried out on American soil. Today we find ourselves in another unprecedented time of panic and confusion, albeit for a very different set of concerns. Yet the task is still the same. Offer the comfort of the true Gospel of Jesus Christ!
At all times and especially in moments like these pastors have a responsibility to shepherd God's Church in helpful and meaningful ways (1 Peter 5:1-4).
The task set before us is to bring about a greater focus on God and His Kingdom over and against the sinful world in which we live (that is to say, the harsh realities of this life). In doing this, we are to teach (both in word and deed) the Biblical response. That response is summed up in the phrase' walk by faith' (trust).
But there are unique challenges in accomplishing this task, particularly in today's online world. In a culture like ours, where there are so many voices saying so many things, the challenge is in cutting through all the noise.
You see, each of us can get online and find personalities that tell us exactly what we want to hear. We can and often do choose voices that simply confirm our biases. If it's fear, we find voices to stir that fear. If it's faith, we find those voices. However, picking and choosing biased voices leaves us unable to be corrected by the people God has put in place to shepherd our souls. (Ephesians 4:11-12; Hebrews 13:17) And by the way, this tendency is as true for faith as it is for politics and even our current crisis.
The product of a postmodern world, the attitude of the masses, is that there are no absolutes in life or that you and I can have our own truth. When confronted with a correction from God's word, we resist because 'we just see things differently.' And if this were taken to its logical conclusion, there would be no sense in 'rightly dividing the word of truth' after all what would it even mean to RIGHTLY divide the word and better still who gets to decide? But there remains an absolute and those given by God to deliver it.
With that said, here's my promise, in this message and any other message, I will stay in my lane. But please hear me, I have a lane. I'm no expert in pandemics or disease prevention and control. You should listen to the CDC and other organizations that are tasked with these matters. It is terribly irresponsible for anyone (especially pastors) to pretend they know more than these people do. Instead, what I will do is focus on how, as Christians, we should interact with one another, the world around us, and how those interactions affect our testimony. I want to focus today on living by faith vs. fear in our current circumstances.
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
This morning, we're going for round two in Luke 1:39-80. We will be looking in greater detail at the story of Zacharias and the birth of John the Baptist. We will tie together the threads of doubt and faith, salvation, and how it all applies to us today.
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
This morning, we're going to turn our attention to Luke 1:39-80 and observe the anticipation (of many) leading up to both John and Jesus entering the world. We'll also learn a few things about Salvation along the way.
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Today we begin a brand new series in the Gospel of Luke. We'll cover the announcement of King Jesus' birth and His forerunner John the Baptist. We'll highlight several things along the way, but our focus will be on one key issue, which is highlighted in my title. Today's message is titled "Faithful Questions" (Luke 1:1-38)
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
Finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
And finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
And finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
Welcome everybody to the Pierce Point Podcast. This podcast is designed to be a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures. Every weekday my friend and fellow pastor Barney Estes, and I walk through the word of God verse by verse.
As always, we’d love to know your thoughts about today’s episode. You can hit us up @piercepointchurch on Facebook or Instagram. We hope you enjoy today’s episode.
If you would please like, and share this podcast with your friends. And finally, remember 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17
All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
We've all heard Romans 3:23. "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God..." But what does it mean to fall short of the glory? Is Paul just being redundant? Is he just reiterating that we've sinned differently? Today we'll discover more of what this means.
This morning we're going to draw our series to close by looking at a second must-have element of biblical fellowship; prayer. Acts 2:42; Daniel 6:10; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; 1 Cor. 8 and Luke 11.
Today is part two of Devotion: Breaking of Bread. In this message, Nathan shares a bigger reason why eating together coupled with the communion elements is the right way to break bread.
What does it mean to break bread? How does it have anything to do with fellowship? Today Nathan shares a larger vision for Christian fellowship.
Day 1 of our church-wide reading plan in Luke/Acts. Nathan and Barney discussing some key ideas.
Last week we learned four biblical habits that make a church truly effective. This week we take a detailed look at number one: devotion to the apostles teaching. (Acts 2:40-47; 11:22-26; 18:8-11; 19:9-10; 20:7-12, 20-21, 28-32; 28:30-31)
There are many opinions as to how churches can be most effective. Some views are biblically rooted; many are not. Over the next few weeks, we will look at four biblical habits that the church must possess to be effective. These habits are found in Acts 2:42. (Acts 2:40-47)
As we move forward from Advent, it's important to remember that as Christians, we possess a GIGANTIC joy! This morning we will explore this joy and learn how it's intended to carry us through to the resurrection. (Ps. 96:11-13; Is. 55:12; John 16:20-22; Heb. 12:1-2; 1 Peter 1:1-9)
Today Nathan wraps up our Advent series by teaching how we can aim for December 25th and actually arrive at Christmas.
Immanuel; God with us! Do you know what this is all about? Listen to this message as it will bless you in your understanding of this great Christmas truth.
This is week two of our Advent series. This message deals with the politics of Christmas.
This week is the first week of our Advent celebration and the message is designed to paint a picture of what the people were anticipating when Jesus arrived.
Today we wrap up our series in Colossians. We will look at our relationship toward non-believers as well as what it truly means to be on Kingdom mission. (Colossians 4:5-6)
This morning Nathan shares "how-to" pray according to Colossians 4:2-6, 1:9-10 and Ephesians 6:18-20.
In this message, Todd gives us an update on his family's journey of adoption as well as a challenge to serve with our whole heart!
As we jump into the 'household codes' of Colossians, I want you to keep in mind that Paul situates everything he says within the context of Christian worship. The point is, that what we're instructed to do is in fact worship to God. (Colossians 3:17-4:1)
This morning Kurtis shares with us what it means to put on Christ. Our text is Colossians 3:12-16.
Last week we looked at the big picture of Colossians 2:13-3:11. This week we zoom in to the finer details.
Occasionally we need to understand what someone is saying before we can understand what they are saying. ;) That's precisely what we will do today in our message. Our text is Colossians 2:13-3:11.
In our family service we looked at who we ARE in Christ (Past tense) so that we can rest assured Christ plus nothing equals our salvation! Colossians 2:6-12 is our main text.
For more messages like this visit: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443
This week Sean communicates how struggling for and with each other is a vital part of Christian ministry.
Jesus is the image of the invisible God. This idea is not only good theology it is an amazing theme for worship.
For more on this listen here: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/the-power-of-good-songs-colossians-115-23
As Christians, we must know, understand and believe God's word in order to stand firm until the end.
For more on this listen here: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/the-power-of-good-songs-colossians-115-23
There are problems with modern worship, but they're not what you think! For more on this subject listen to the rest here: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/the-power-of-good-songs-colossians-115-23
A Hymn of Praise
Today we're exploring the beauty and purpose of Paul's hymn of praise found at the beginning of the letter to the Colossians. We will also examine why our songs today are so crucial to our identity and practice as Christians. (Colossians 1:15-23)
A Model Prayer
Today we're going to study Paul's prayer for the Colossians, which is a model prayer, in my opinion. Within this prayer, we're going to learn three essential lessons:
Prayer always includes more than mere words. Prayer is a persistent matter. The substance of godly prayer (in this case: knowledge of God's will, spiritual wisdom, and understanding) always has pleasing God as its aim.
Then, finally, we'll wrap it all up by connecting the dots to the Colossian heresy as we learned in week 1.
[Col 1:9-14 NASB] 9 For this reason also, since the day we heard [of it,] we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please [Him] in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. 13 For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
This week Nathan shares how faith, hope, and love are all connected and produced by the Gospel.
For more on this and other subjects check out www.piercepoint.org
Christian Maturity and The Princess Bride
Have you ever heard someone criticize scholarship or theology because supposedly detract from the "simple Gospel"? In this clip, Nathan deals with this problematic view.
Mercy leads to obedience. It doesn't work the other way around!
For more on this listen here: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/intro-to-colossians
Man's Tradition or God's Teaching?
For more teachings like this please check out www.piercepoint.org
Understanding the purpose of Colossians.
In this clip Nathan shares why we have to understand any scripture in its context. For more please listen to the full message here: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/intro-to-colossians
Today, we're going to begin a brand new series in the book of Colossians.
So, if you have your Bibles go ahead and turn with me there. But as you're turning, instead of going to the beginning, we’re going to start strategically in chapter 2:8...
[Colossians 2:8] 8 "See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ.”
Okay, so the reason we're starting here and not chapter 1:1 is that understanding Paul's motive (or his purpose) for writing is absolutely vital to rightly dividing the rest of the letter.
As a principle, understanding a situation accurately is essential to a correct application! Or to say it in the reverse: accurate application must follow accurate information.
This week Barney Estes shares the Holy Spirits role in our knowing and being known by God.
In chapter 6 and 7 of "The Chronicles of Narnia - The Voyage of the Dawn Treader," C.S. Lewis focuses on a boy named Eustace. Lewis tells us that Eustace 'wondered off avoiding his chores.' In his wondering, he entered into a dragon's cave to plunder its treasure. The problem, however, is that in so doing, Eustace turned into a dragon himself. Afterward, Eustace comes across a lion who changes him back to the boy he once was. Upon this transformation he apologizes for his behavior, no longer feeling a desire to go back for more treasure. Lewis says that "he began to be a different boy."
Discovering that the lion who changed him was, in fact, Aslan, Eustace asks Edmond (his cousin who has a relationship with Aslan) "Who is Aslan?" and "Do you know him?" (John 5:1-17) To which Edmund responds in quite an amazing way, he says "well... He knows me. He is the great lion, the son of the emperor-beyond-the-sea who saved me and saved Narnia."
The reason I share this is to highlight the importance of what is a two-way relationship with God. Although Edmund clearly knew Aslan "He is the great lion, the son of the emperor-beyond-the-sea who saved me and saved Narnia." Edmund's answer emphasizes that Aslan "knows" him.
Last week we learned that knowing God is essential; this is a part of God's express goal. (1 Cor. 13:12 - "to know as we are fully known.") But today I want you to see that being known by God is arguably the more important point and that being known by God comes with clear signs.
Now, although I can't prove this, Lewis' inspiration for Edmunds answer might have come from the Apostle Paul,
[Gal 4:8-9 NASB] 8 However at that time, when you did not know God, you were slaves to those which by nature are no gods. 9 But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how is it that you turn back again to the weak and worthless elemental things, to which you desire to be enslaved all over again?
Paul is in no way discounting our capacity or need to know God but rather is placing the emphasis on the idea that Christians have come to be "known by God."
Preach the Gospel. (Ordo salutis)
Order of Salvation: [Eph 1:13-14 NASB] 13 In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation--having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of [God's own] possession, to the praise of His glory.
[Rom 1:16 NASB] 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
[Eph 2:8-9 NASB] 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
[Rom 4:5, 16 NASB] 5 But to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness, ... 16 For this reason [it is] by faith, in order that [it may be] in accordance with grace, so that the promise will be guaranteed to all the descendants, not only to those who are of the Law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all,
[Rom 10:17 NASB] 17 So faith [comes] from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.
Conviction is good!
[2Sa 7:20 NASB] 20 "Again what more can David say to You? For You know Your servant, O Lord GOD!
[Psa 139:1-7 NASB] 1… O LORD, You have searched me and known [me.] 2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. 3 You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And are intimately acquainted with all my ways. 4 Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O LORD, You know it all. 5 You have enclosed me behind and before, And laid Your hand upon me. 6 [Such] knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is [too] high, I cannot attain to it. (back to 2 Cor. 13:12) 7 Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?
To Know and Be Known! (Matthew 16:13-17)
- How did we come to know God? 2. How do we know God knows us?
Scriptures used: [1Co 13:12 NASB]
God's relational knowledge: [Gen 18:19 NASB]
[Exo 33:12-13 NASB] 12 Then Moses said to the LORD, "See, You say to me, 'Bring up this people!' But You Yourself have not let me know whom You will send with me. Moreover, You have said, 'I have known you by name, and you have also found favor in My sight.' 13 "Now therefore, I pray You, if I have found favor in Your sight, let me know Your ways that I may know You, so that I may find favor in Your sight. Consider too, that this nation is Your people."
[2Sa 7:20 NASB]
[Psa 139:1-7 NASB]
[Jeremiah 1:5 NASB]
[Amos 3:2 NASB]
Eternal Implications: [Mat 7:22-23 NASB] 22 "Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' 23 "And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.’
[Jhn 5:39-42 NASB]
This week… To Know God: [Mat 16:13-17 NASB] 13 Now, when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He was asking His disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" 14 And they said, "Some [say] John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets." 15 He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" 16 Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." 17 And Jesus said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Barjona because flesh and blood did not reveal [this] to you, but My Father who is in heaven.
We came to know God through the revelation of the Gospel…
Order of Salvation: [Eph 1:13-14 NASB] 13 In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation--having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of [God's own] possession, to the praise of His glory.
[Rom 1:16 NASB]
[Eph 2:8-9 NASB]
[Rom 4:5, 16 NASB]
[Rom 10:17 NASB]
Conclusion: We came to know God through the revelation of the Gospel. Although proclaimed through flesh and blood, this revelation was from the Father. This is why the great commission is so important. This is why Romans 10:4 speaks of the blessedness of the person who brings this good news. This is also why the Scriptures teach us that we’ve been given the ministry of reconciliation. [2Co 5:17-21 NASB]
A Sad State of Affairs
Now it's also true that if someone is genuinely divisive or heretical, we tend to do nothing about them. Think about the sad state this put us in inside the Church. When we disagree, we divide and when there's an actual danger we tell ourselves we shouldn't judge. G.K. Chesterton points out this problem in his book aptly named Heretics.
"The word "heresy" not only means no longer being wrong; it practically means being clear-headed and courageous. The word "orthodoxy" not only no longer means being right; it practically means being wrong. All this can mean one thing, and one thing only. It means that people care less for whether they are philosophically right. For obviously a man ought to confess himself crazy before he confesses himself heretical."
So unity is good, division is bad, divisive people are a problem that must be dealt with, and there are absolutes in our belief; orthodoxy is not a bad word.
But as I've shared in the past, we must make an important distinction between the divisive person and someone who is simply wrong. In other words, holding an unorthodox view doesn't make a person a heretic or divisive.
Are unorthodox ideals a problem? Absolutely! But it's sowing division (with those unorthodox views) that's the real problem according to the Bible (Titus 3:10-11; Romans 16:17).
But the person who holds an unorthodox view is to be governed by something far more significant, Christian charity. Passages like James 1:5-6;
[Jas 1:5-6 NASB] 5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.
[Eph 4:2-6 NASB] 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, 3 being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 [There is] one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (this is one reason we have God's word)
[2Ti 3:16-17 NASB] 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
And Eph. 4:11-16 (4 or 5-fold ministry).
I can't stress how important this distinction is (those who hold unorthodox views and those who divide people). And here's why: it's hard work to preserve unity. It's no work at all to label someone a heretic and walk away. Truth is there's far too much of this going on in some circles of the Church today. And sadly it's not always over orthodoxy, many times it's over ill-informed traditions.
Letting the text speak.
This morning I want to talk to you candidly about a few things: unity and division, orthodoxy, as well as allowing the text of scripture to speak for itself.
Last week, I stressed God's desire for unity and His disdain for division; in particular, those who cause division. The book of Proverbs tells us that those who sow discord are an abomination to God and the objects of His hatred; which is strong rhetoric! But as we learned, the reason for this bold language is that divisive people are not of God (Romans 16:18). They are the true definition of what we call a heretic.
So we know who these people are. But before we get back to Romans, I want us to consider two very serious questions. 1. How important is God's view of unity? And 2. How does God see division or those who cause division? We know who these people are, but how does God see them?
- How important is God's view of unity?
[Psalm 133:1 NASB] 1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brothers to dwell together in unity!
The psalmist goes on to compare this unity with the anointing of Aaron as a priest and the place, Mount Hermon, from which God commanded the blessing; life forever. To God, unity is as good and pleasing as His priesthood and eternal life.
- How does God see division or those who cause division?
[Proverbs 6:16-19 NASB] 16 There are six things which the LORD hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: 17 Haughty (proud) eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, 18 A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil, 19 A false witness [who] utters lies, And one who spreads strife among brothers.
Those are heavy words! Okay, back to Romans:
[Rom 16:17-20 NASB] 17 Now I urge you (I think we have a much better understanding of how important this was to Paul), brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. 18 For such men are slaves, not of our Lord (Jesus) Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech, they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.
Notice it's the "unsuspecting" that are targeted. False teachers, heretics, those who divide are just like bullies and abusers; they pick on the weak. Knowing this helps us to understand not only the Christian value of maturity but also an important reason behind it, specifically that we not get duped by divisive people, that we don't allow them to bully us or others (keep an eye on them)!
[1Co 3:1-3 NASB] 1 And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual men, but as to men of flesh, as to infants in Christ. 2 I gave you milk to drink, not solid food; for you were not yet able [to receive it.] Indeed, even now you are not yet able, 3 for you are still fleshly. (How does Paul know this? What is he seeing that makes him think they are fleshly?) For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like mere men?
In [1Co 14:20 NASB] 20 Brethren, do not be children in your thinking; yet in evil be infants, but in your thinking be mature.
The problems with immaturity are multifaceted, but in our context, the problem is that people are easily divided.
This was a problem in the Old Testament too. In Jeremiah's day, God's people were an utter mess.
[Jer 4:22 NASB] 22 "For My people are foolish, They know Me not; They are stupid children And have no understanding. They are shrewd to do evil, But to do good they do not know."
If you know the history of Israel, then you would know that while Jeremiah and others were prophesying God's truth and a call to repentance, "false shepherds" were declaring peace, safety, and prosperity to the nation, even though they were living in sinful rebellion!
Quite honestly this sounds like many today and yes even many in the church. Teachers are telling people what their itching ears want to hear. The antidote to this deception is Christian maturity.
Who are they? (Part 2)
Titus 3:10-11 speak of this kind of individual also.
[Tit 3:10-11 NASB] 10 Reject a factious ("heretic" KJV) man after a first and second warning, 11 knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned.
-
A Heretic. The difference in holding an unorthodox view and causing division because of it... (EXPAND)
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We can add to our list that this kind of person is perverted. Obviously, we understand what is meant here, in that they are perverting God's truth.
Turn with me to 1 Timothy 6. Here Paul writes to Timothy concerning such a person as well,
[1Ti 6:3-5 NASB] 3 If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, (this one is a big one for me... EXPAND...) 4 he is conceited [and] understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, 5 and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth
Believe me; the list can go on and on. This is no doubt why when we talk about church discipline there's a marked difference between someone caught in sin (these are brothers that need to be restored) and a divisive person (these are unbelievers that we need to turn away from.) EXPAND...
Last thing on this point back at number three I said that these people espouse doctrines that cause people to stumble. Do you remember what Jesus says about these kinds of people?
[Mat 18:6 NASB] 6 but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.
Who are they?
- They are people who don't agree with sound doctrine. 2. They're willing to split the church over it. 3. The doctrines they espouse cause people to stumble (Whether in faith like the Judaizers or in godliness). But more on this one in a second.
Verse 18 goes on to say, "18 For such men are slaves, not of our Lord (Jesus) Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech, they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting."
So 4. They don't belong to Jesus! They are slaves of their own appetites. And I suppose we could list them as "smooth talkers" and "deceivers."
URGENT MATTERS
As we walk through verses 17 through 20, they'll serve as a kind of outline for the bigger issues of unity and division. So let's jump into verse 17:
"17 Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them."
The term "urge" in Greek is "parakaleo," and it means to demand earnestly or pressingly. Clearly, this issue of division is rather important. Paul only uses this term four times in the book of Romans, and each represents a sort of watershed moment (at least doctrinally): Romans 12:1 when Paul says "I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice." Romans 12:8 when he says that the one who has the gift of exhortation should use it (the word means to urge, clearly the church needs this). Romans 15:30, when Paul asks the saints to strive together with him in prayer for his ongoing mission, the term he uses is "to urge." And again here in Romans 16:17.
"17 Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them."
There are two things Paul is urging these Christians to do. We have to see both of them, or we're going to miss his point. 1. "keep your eye on those who cause dissension..." and 2. "turn away from them." Paul doesn't just leave it at watching them. We must turn from these kinds of people.
But why? Who are they? This is where terms matter.
The term dissension means "discord that splits a group," and the word hindrance literally translates "a cause for stumbling." Now, keep in mind that this "splitting of a group" and causing others to "stumble" has to do with doctrine or teaching.
"those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the TEACHING which you learned."
READ: [Rom 16:17-20 NASB] 17 Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. 18 For such men are slaves, not of our Lord (Jesus) Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech, they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting. 19 For the report of your obedience has reached to all; therefore, I am rejoicing over you, but I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil. 20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
Among Pauls final instructions to the church in Rome, he addresses briefly, yet profoundly the ideas of unity and division. His main concern is with those who cause division and particularly division over sound doctrine.
Have you ever heard that something is "pregnant with meaning?" This is very true of these four verses. What Paul has to say here is informed by the scriptures and they say a lot about unity and division. Hopefully, we'll learn a little of that today.
As we start, I want you to know; I have the same goal today as Paul did 2,000 years ago.
In verse 19 he says, "For the report of your obedience has reached to all; therefore, I am rejoicing over you, but I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil."
In other words, Paul's goal then, and mine today is not to talk about something we're doing wrong necessarily. As a church, I can say with a great deal of confidence that we all desire to live godly lives. We may not always know how to do this, but that becomes an issue of maturity and/or understanding rather than stubbornness or outright rebellion. Like Paul, I hope today's message will help us become "wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil."
Give God glory!
[2Co 9:7-8 NASB] 7 Each one [must do] just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. (REASON 2) 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you so that always having all sufficiency in everything; you may have an abundance for every good deed;"
You must catch this church.
[2Co 9:9-11 NASB] 9 as it is written, "HE scattered abroad, HE gave to the poor, HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS endures forever." 10 Now HE who supplies seed to the sower (you and I) and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness; 11 you will be enriched in everything for all liberality,"
Whatever you purpose to give, it was first given to you, and that giver is God. The real question is, do you trust Him? The faith message from a couple of weeks ago is speaking to us again. When it comes to the material blessings you are indebted to give to those who've spiritually blessed you; are you sitting in the chair?
There's a sanctification principle in this too. The value is giving; REASON 5 is growing in righteousness. We are enriched as we give so that we can give more.
REASON 6: God is glorified.
[2Co 9:11-13 NASB] 11 you will be enriched in everything for all liberality, which through us is producing thanksgiving to God. 12 For the ministry of this service is not only fully supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing through many thanksgivings to God. 13 Because of the proof given by this ministry, they will glorify God for [your] obedience to your confession of the gospel of Christ and for the liberality of your contribution to them and to all,
REASON 7: Strengthening your spiritual allies. They pray for you. They yearn for you.
[2Co 9:13-15 NASB] 13 Because of the proof given by this ministry, they will glorify God for [your] obedience to your confession of the gospel of Christ and for the liberality of your contribution to them and to all, 14 while they also, by PRAYER on your behalf, YEARN for you because of the surpassing grace of God in you. 15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
Conclusion: Our value today is giving. The reasons are: REASON 1: Indebtedness. REASON 2: Joy. REASON 3: We reap what we sow. REASON 4: We give because God gave it to us in order to give. REASON 5: Growing in righteousness. REASON 6: God is glorified. REASON 7: We strengthen our spiritual allies.
The conclusion is this, there are biblical values in the Scripture, and there are biblical reasons. Sometimes we have lost our value because, or we have no value because we were given no reasons or we were given bad reasons. Please hear me church, bad reasons or no reasons should not prevent you from operating according to Godly values. God wrote to you. God gave you His word so you would know.
Reap what you sow, it's a New Testament principle.
[2Co 9:1 NASB] 1 For it is superfluous for me to write to you about this ministry to the saints;
What does he mean it's superfluous? It means that he already has confidence in them. He's still going to remind them, but as we learned last week, reminders don't mean we don't know something.
(Verses 2-5) "for I know your readiness, of which I boast about you to the Macedonians, [namely,] that Achaia has been prepared since last year, and your zeal has stirred up most of them. 3 But I have sent the brethren, in order that our boasting about you may not be made empty in this case, so that, as I was saying, you may be prepared; 4 otherwise if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we--not to speak of you--will be put to shame by this confidence. 5 So I thought it necessary to urge the brethren that they would go on ahead to you and arrange beforehand your previously promised bountiful gift so that the same would be ready as a bountiful gift and not affected by covetousness.
REASON 3 is found in verse 6: We reap what we sow.
"6 Now this [I say,] he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully."
Remember I quoted Galatians 6:6 before,
[Gal 6:6-10 NASB] 6 The one who is taught the word is to share all good things with the one who teaches [him.]
But listen to what Paul says through verse 10.
"7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. (This is both positive and negative) 8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. 9 Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. 10 So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith."
For the joy set before us we give.
Every one of us knows the adage, "it is better to give than to receive." And those who understand it, understand that giving provides unspeakable joy. You might be like the widow and her mite in the new testament. Two pennies is all you have to your name. But remember what she did. She gave everything she had. She wasn't begrudgingly giving either. Jesus said she gave more than all the rest.
2 Corinthians 9:7 says, "God loves a cheerful giver." Please note that there are two things God loves here. God loves the giver, and God loves the disposition of the giver. If God just loved cheerful people, he would have just said that. But He said that He loves a cheerful giver. There's an action that you're doing (giving) and a heart condition that you have in doing it (Cheer).
Why does God love a cheerful giver? Because in giving, we reflect the Glory of the one who redeemed us. God, Himself is a cheerful giver. We're imitating our Heavenly Father.
[Jhn 3:16 NASB] 16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
[Rom 5:8 NASB] 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
The Scripture tells us that Christ came to earth and went to the cross willingly to give us life.
[Heb 12:1-2 NASB] 1 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (this is all about obedience to God) 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus (our example), the author, and perfecter of faith, who for the JOY set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
It was also the Father's good pleasure to reconcile us to Himself.
[Col 1:19-20 NASB] 19 For it was the [Father's] good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, 20 AND through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross
Giving is a Christian value. Indebtedness and joy are both reasons to give.
Indebted to give.
Yes, you heard me. The Apostle Paul says that the Macedonians and the Achaians were indebted to Jerusalem. The Gentiles had shared in Jerusalem's Spiritual things. Paul planted these churches. They benefited in spiritual things and therefor are indebted to minister back in material things. This ministry of material things (the value of giving) was extended to the needy, to Paul (Philippians 4:15-17) and others.
[Phl 4:15-17 NASB] 15 You yourselves also know, Philippians, that at the first preaching of the Gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you alone; 16 for even in Thessalonica you sent [a gift] more than once for my needs. 17 Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account.
This concept of indebtedness or owing something is not foreign to the Scripture. In Galatians 6:6 we read,
[Gal 6:6 NASB] 6 The one who is taught the word MUST share ALL good things with the one who teaches [him.]
In 1 Timothy 5:17-18 it says,
[1Ti 5:17-18 NASB] 17 The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, "YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING," and "The laborer is worthy of his wages."
In the King James Bible, it says, "thou shalt not muzzle the ox while he is threshing." This is what is called a negative command, just like we see in the ten commandments.
1 Corinthians 9 echoes this.
[1Co 9:9-10 NASB] 9 For it is written in the Law of Moses, "YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING." God is not concerned about oxen, is He? 10 Or is He speaking altogether for our sake? Yes, for our sake, it was written because the plowman ought to plow in hope and the thresher [to thresh] in hope of sharing [the crops.]
This is all written for our sake. This is a debt, just like Paul says in Romans 15. The pastor, the teacher, the person investing in you in spiritual matters should be able to invest with hope, the hope of reaping. By the way, according to Romans 15, this is not merely Spiritual reaping.
27 "For if the Gentiles have shared in their spiritual things, they are indebted to minister to them also in MATERIAL things."
Giving is a value in the church, and one reason we give is that we are indebted to those who've shared with us.
I know this is an interesting idea to some, and it makes it hard as a pastor to preach things like this because it seems somewhat self-serving. But you can remove me from the equation if you would like. I'm not teaching this for me at the moment. I simply want you to see what another minister of the Gospel wrote some 2,000 years ago. Paul tells us that there's a value of giving and that one reason behind that value is an indebtedness.
Last thing on this point; notice that when Paul says the people were indebted to give material things, he doesn't provide a disclaimer. They understood both the value and the reason. Only in the 21st century do we have to spend hours communicating to people that even though they're saved by mercy, they are to present their bodies as a living sacrifice. God bought us church; we give it all back to Him. We're not paying Him back. We're merely giving Him what He purchased. This is true worship, according to Romans 12:1-2.
Values and reasons.
This morning, we're going to spend our time discussing values and reasons. Every one of us has values, and every one of us has reasons for those particular values. And this is true whether we're aware of it or not.
For example, as Christians, we value reading the Bible. Some might value reading the Bible because they were raised a certain way. Mom and dad read it, grandma and grandpa read it and on it goes. Reading the Bible is the value, and the reason is tradition.
Still, others have more superstitious reasons. Some people believe that reading the Bible will necessarily make things go better in their life. This is entirely untrue. An atheist could read the Bible every day, but unless they submit themselves to the author of the Bible (the redeemer of humanity), nothing will change. The Bible isn't a rabbit's foot, but neither is a rabbit's foot for that matter.
Still, others might say that their reason is to earn their way to God. Of course, no one will ever say it this way, but it is what they mean — a kind of man-made religion. A pseudo-spiritual checklist to earn mercy. Make no mistake there's a value and a reason even if it's absurd.
Although these may have been starting points for some, if we've learned anything from reading the Bible, it's that there are actual Godly reasons for the values that we have. Continuing is this example of reading the scriptures:
[2Ti 3:16-17 NASB] 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
And if you've studied Scripture for any length of time, you might even connect Ephesians 2:10 here which says,
[Eph 2:10 NASB] 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
So we have a value of reading God's word, but we also have Biblical reasons for it. It's "inspired," "profitable," and it "equips us for every good work." And the work we're equipped for is the work we were made for. Biblical value, Biblical reasons.
Values and reasons are vital to the Christians life!
[Rom 15:26-27 NASB] 26 For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem. 27 Yes, they were pleased [to do so,] and they are indebted to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in their spiritual things, they are indebted to minister to them also in material things.
This morning, we're going to spend our time discussing values and reasons. Every one of us has values, and every one of us has reasons for those particular values. And this is true whether we're aware of it or not.
For example, as Christians, we value reading the Bible. Some might value reading the Bible because they were raised a certain way. Mom and dad read it, grandma and grandpa read it and on it goes. Reading the Bible is the value, and the reason is tradition.
Still, others have more superstitious reasons. Some people believe that reading the Bible will necessarily make things go better in their life. This is entirely untrue. An atheist could read the Bible every day, but unless they submit themselves to the author of the Bible (the redeemer of humanity), nothing will change. The Bible isn't a rabbit's foot, but neither is a rabbit's foot for that matter.
Still, others might say that their reason is to earn their way to God. Of course, no one will ever say it this way, but it is what they mean — a kind of man-made religion. A pseudo-spiritual checklist to earn mercy. Make no mistake there's a value and a reason even if it's absurd.
Although these may have been starting points for some, if we've learned anything from reading the Bible, it's that there are actual Godly reasons for the values that we have. Continuing is this example of reading the scriptures:
[2Ti 3:16-17 NASB] 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
And if you've studied Scripture for any length of time, you might even connect Ephesians 2:10 here which says,
[Eph 2:10 NASB] 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
So we have a value of reading God's word, but we also have Biblical reasons for it. It's "inspired," "profitable," and it "equips us for every good work." And the work we're equipped for is the work we were made for. Biblical value, Biblical reasons.
Just a reminder church.
[Rom 15:14-15 NASB] 14 And concerning you, my brethren, I myself also am convinced that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able also to admonish one another. 15 BUT I have written very boldly to you on some points so as to remind you again, because of the grace that was given me from God..."
How many of you set reminders daily? Every appointment or schedule, we make gets a reminder. We clearly know the appointment is there, we set it. But life is busy, and we forget.
But what about rules? My girls are like this almost every day. I've shared in times past that we have well-established rules in our house. "Listen and obey, right away." "Keep short accounts." "Ask questions, don't question." Although my daughters know these rules, they need reminders every day!
As Christians, we're no different. And sadly God's word is even written on our hearts! So Paul's purpose for writing is to remind these Christian concerning "some points."
See, Paul wrote to remind the church in Rome and yet look again at what verse 14 says, "And concerning you, my brethren, I myself also am convinced that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able also to admonish one another."
Sharing faith is truly encouraging.
[Rom 1:11-12 NASB] 11 For I long to see you so that I may impart some spiritual gift to you, that you may be established;
Elsewhere Paul talks about being refreshed by the saints in Rome and enjoying their company. But here, Paul says that he wants to impart something. But what the heck does that mean? "Impart some spiritual gift... that you may be established?" Well, verse 12 explicitly interprets what Paul says.
[Rom 1:11-12 NASB] 11 For I long to see you so that I may impart some spiritual gift to you, that you may be established; 12 THAT IS, (what I mean by this is) that I may be encouraged together with you [while] among you, each of us by the other's faith, both yours and mine.
Here's how we ought to see this. When Paul says that he wants to impart some spiritual gift, he's actually talking about his own faith. It's important to remember the word 'impart' means 'to make known' or 'to communicate' as well as 'to bestow.' Next, when Paul says that this gift is to 'establish them,' he likens it in verse 12 to 'encouraging them.' So verse 12 means exactly what it says, and it is the interpretation of verse 11.
A great church shares faith stories to encourage one another.
Tell me something good... about the church.
[Rom 1:8-9 NASB] 8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, because your FAITH is being proclaimed throughout the whole world.
What does it mean that one's faith is being proclaimed? Well, here's what it doesn't mean. It doesn't mean that "their own personal gospel" is being proclaimed. Remember faith is trust, and that is all. Paul is saying that their trust in Jesus Christ is being talked about. But how do others know of our faith, our trust? Our works! All Biblical writers know faith without works is dead (James 2:17). Faith either has feet, or it doesn't exist!
So another answer to our question of 'what makes for a great church' is that a great church has demonstrable faith! People see it.
9 For God, whom I serve in my spirit in the [preaching of the] gospel of His Son, is my witness [as to] how unceasingly I make mention of you,
Not only has Paul heard of their faith, but he also keeps talking about them. This may be another sign of a great church; a great church gets talked about. But please note what Paul is making mention of is their faith. He's not going on and on about their band or their preacher. He's telling the world of the faithful work of these Christians as they obey Christ!
God's fingerprint is what matters for a great church.
Paul has never actually met the Roman church. He wasn't the one who planted this church. According to church history, no one knows who founded the church in Roman. However, theologians assert that the church was the product of Christian Jews or proselytes who had returned home after their conversion on the day of Pentecost.
In Acts 2, Jewish people from all over had come to Jerusalem to celebrate Shavuot (the feast of weeks) when (as we know) the Spirit of God fell on the disciples; Pentecost. Immediately after this, the Apostles proclaimed the Gospel, and Scripture says, "about 3,000 souls were added to the church" that day. Luke even records the origins of those who heard this good news in verses 9-11. Among those listed, Luke says, "visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes."
So the thought is that these new Christians went back to Rome, and the church(es) were established. This seems more than feasible. But for today's message, the point is that Paul has never met them.
Romans 1:8-10 shows this. Paul writes, "First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, because your faith is being proclaimed throughout the whole world. 9 For God, whom I serve in my spirit in the [preaching of the] Gospel of His Son, is my witness [as to] how unceasingly I make mention of you, 10 always in my prayers making request, if perhaps now AT LAST by the will of God I may SUCCEED in coming to you."
It seems Paul has longed to visit the church(es) in Rome but was never able.
[Rom 1:13 NASB] "I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that often I have planned to come to you (and have been prevented so far)"
Romans 15:20 tells us why he's been prevented. Paul says, "And thus I aspired to preach the gospel, not where Christ was [already] named, so that I would not build on another man's foundation; 21 but as it is written, "They who had no news of Him shall see, and they who have not heard shall understand." 22 FOR THIS REASON, I have often been prevented from coming to you;"
So 1. Paul has never met these people and that because someone else laid the foundation of Christ there. For any leaders in the room, a great church doesn't require our fingerprints; only God's!
What Makes for a great church?
Throughout today's message, Nathan asked us to consider this question. We learn that greatness is defined by our adherence to what God alone has commanded.
For a full transcript please visit https://www.piercepoint.org/
Joy is a choice!
Let's do a little thought experiment:
When did Peter come off this proverbial chair when walking on water? It was when he looked at the wind and the waves. You see Peter lost "all joy and peace" when he stopped trusting in the Jesus who called him out.
This is contrasted with Abraham in Romans 4:19-20. Did Abraham ever come off the chair? The answer is no. God gave him "all joy and peace," even though he and Sarah were too old according to man's Wisdom. But
Abraham kept trusting; the scripture records that "Abraham grew strong in faith." And that He "glorified God and lived in full assurance." Abraham, in believing, was filled with all joy and peace.
Peter in disbelieving was filled with fear and anxiety, and he called out to God to save him.
But please hear me, I don't want you to think for a second that by peace and joy I mean a cessation of war or trial or pain in this life, and I surely don't want you to believe that by joy I mean worldly happiness because I do not!
The joy that God gives to those who trust in Him helps us to recognize that trials cannot steal what God has given.
Instead, they are used for our good. After all, "God works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.”
APOLOGY: The first 8 min have poor audio quality. Sorry about that in advance.
In today's message, we'll grow in understanding on a couple of fronts. 1. Our understanding of hope and faith and the difference in the two. 2. How “all joy and peace” can be ours in this life. And 3. An accurate understanding of what it means to "abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Strong faith requires hope, hope is found in God's word alone!
To here more click here: https://www.piercepoint.org/single-post/2019/06/24/Bearing-with-the-Weak
Faith requires hope. In order to grow strong in faith, you must have something to place your faith in; this is where hope matters.
To hear more listen here: https://www.piercepoint.org/single-post/2019/06/24/Bearing-with-the-Weak
In today's Church culture everyone with whom we disagree is a heretic, but this is not actually true.
For more of this message listen here: https://www.piercepoint.org/single-post/2019/06/24/Bearing-with-the-Weak
What does it mean to bear another Christian? Listen to this clip.
If you'd like to hear more you can listen to the full message here:
https://www.piercepoint.org/single-post/2019/06/24/Bearing-with-the-Weak
What does it really mean to bear with one another's weakness? Listen to this message from Pierce Point Community Church.
If you claim to be Spirit-filled and are not self-controlled you need to listen to this!
In this weeks sermon, Nathan teaches about judgment, good works, Christian liberty, and self-control.
Today we carry over what we learned last week about faith and couple it with the real-life situations of this first-century church in Rome. Along the way, we will find the application for us in the 21st century. Scriptures include: Romans 14:1-4, 15:1
This week we transition into Romans 14. Today we're going to look at the contrast of week and strong faith.
For the full sermon click here: https://www.piercepoint.org/single-post/2019/05/28/Mutual-Submission-Explained---Ephesians-521?fbclid=IwAR2NC9hm5YRruHEc_Vxl-zbPdWq1AY9f1qYoScd2pOPrvsDiJaq7KnV_k4A
For the full sermon click here: https://www.piercepoint.org/single-post/2019/05/28/Mutual-Submission-Explained---Ephesians-521?fbclid=IwAR2NC9hm5YRruHEc_Vxl-zbPdWq1AY9f1qYoScd2pOPrvsDiJaq7KnV_k4A
For the full sermon click here: https://www.piercepoint.org/single-post/2019/05/28/Mutual-Submission-Explained---Ephesians-521?fbclid=IwAR2NC9hm5YRruHEc_Vxl-zbPdWq1AY9f1qYoScd2pOPrvsDiJaq7KnV_k4A
For the full sermon click here: https://www.piercepoint.org/single-post/2019/05/28/Mutual-Submission-Explained---Ephesians-521?fbclid=IwAR2NC9hm5YRruHEc_Vxl-zbPdWq1AY9f1qYoScd2pOPrvsDiJaq7KnV_k4A
The idea of mutual submission is not without controversy. It is either challenged or misinterpreted by Christians, both to fit a particular agenda. Today I hope to show that mutual submission is not only Biblical and therefore good but also how it plays out and why it’s so important.
Today we continue in Romans 13 as we learn how loving our neighbor fulfills the law of God. Our text includes Romans 13:8-14, and James 2:1-13.
This week we look again to Romans 13, as we dig a little deeper into two questions from last week. Question 1: What do we do when authority punishes both evil and good? Question 2: What do we do when authority asks us to do something antithetical to the word of God? (Romans 13:1-7, 1 Peter 2:13-23, 3:13-16)
This week we begin Romans 13. We'll look at three words in particular: subjection, established, and resist. Each is important in how we approach God-ordained authority. Texts include Romans 13:1-7, Romans 12:17-18, Acts 5:27-29 and Acts 7:51-53.
Today's message is a continuation of our sub-series Love Without Hypocrisy. Our text is Romans 12:9-21.
In Christ alone, our hope is found. In this Easter message Nathan shares some of the hope that still awaits us in Jesus as well as the manifold hope that has already been accomplished!
Although we often use the same vocabulary as the world, we must learn that as Christians we use a different dictionary. In this clip, Nathan explains.
This week we continue in our mini-series on love void of hypocrisy. Today we look at why hospitality is so important.
This week we look at love without hypocrisy. A love that God uses to bring about true unity. Our text is Romans 12:9-21.
The Apostle Paul tells us that in view of mercy we are to present our bodies as a living sacrifice. Based on the context Paul clearly has unity in view. This is what we're going to see today. Our text is Romans 12:1-13.
Today we look at the right response to mercy according to Paul. Our text is Romans 11:25 through Romans 12:2.
What does it mean to be "in" God's kingdom? What does it mean to walk in holiness in light of mercy? In this clip, Nathan explains how we are saved and how we are kept.
In this clip, Nathan shares a vital piece of context with respect to the potter and the clay from Jeremiah 18.
This week we continue discovering the great mercy of God as we move through Romans 11. Our texts include Romans 11, Romans 9:30-32, Romans 8:19-21, Romans 10:19-20, Romans 3:3-4, Jeremiah 2:31 and 1 Corinthians 6:20.
In this excerpt from Nathan's message on Sunday we discover an important understanding of Romans 9; the potter and the clay.
Today we transition to Romans 9. If you've ever struggled with this chapter or simply need a message about mercy, today's message is for you.
Sometimes all we want is a Pastor/teacher to tell us what the truth of God's word says.
As a church, we've been learning about our victory in Jesus; with a particular focus on assurance. In this final part, the Apostle Paul appeals to the character of God as the key to our confidence. Our text is Romans 8:31-39
In this excerpt from Nathan's message on Romans 8:28-31 we look at the meaning of what it means to be foreknown. The word foreknew (προγινώσκω) is used 5 times in the scripture and literally means "to know before personally."
Here's the link to the whole message: https://soundcloud.com/user-830713149-229342443/victory-in-jesus-2-romans-828-31
An excerpt from Sunday's message on Romans 8:28-31. This segment is all about worship in the church today.
Victory In Jesus Part 2: Assurance is an important idea for Christians. The Apostle Paul asserts that "we know" that God is working for us and that our victory is sure; but how? The answer is found by looking to the past. Today we will cover Romans 8:28-31 where we'll discover how we are to KNOW that Christ's victory is truly certain.
This week we look at the victory we have in Christ Jesus. With the peace of no condemnation and the vision of future glorification, Paul shows us just how sure God's victory is! Our text is Romans 8:26-28.
This week we pick up in Romans 8:18-25 as we learn what future glorification is all about.
Last week we discovered two bookends of the Christian life: no condemnation and future glorification. This week we're going to zoom in and discover why there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Our text is Romans 8:1-17. Further study: 1 Cor. 15:45, John 8:32, Romans 6:14, 18, 7:4, Acts 13:39, Heb. 10:1-3, 22, Matthew 5:17, Prov. 17:15 and 2 Cor. 5:21.
Being set free from the law of sin and death is an amazing truth! Being called to live in the law of the Spirit and life is humbling. But Paul communicates two bookends that we need to understand, which make this new life joyful. They are "no condemnation in Christ" and God's goal that we "be glorified with Him." Our text today is Romans 8:1-17.
Have you ever heard someone say, "the struggle is real"? Well, concerning walking by the flesh or by the Spirit this statement is true. However, it's not as bleak as you might think. Today we are going to learn what Paul really has to say on this matter. Our texts are Romans 7:14-25 and Romans 8:1-4.
Today we're going to talk about being united with Christ. But before that can happen the Bible reveals that we must die. Our text today is Romans 7:1-13.
Last week we transitioned from justification by faith to a life lived through faith. Today we're learning what we've been baptized into as well as for what have we been raised. Our text is Romans 5:12 through chapter 6.
Today we transition from faith to life. As Christians, our assurance (in all things) is rooted in God and not ourselves. The resurrection assures us of eternal life, and the love of God assures us that our hope in Him will never be met with disappointment. Our text today is Romans 5:1-11.
Today we are looking at four points of justification. They are as follows: 1. Justification is by grace. 2. Justification comes as an act of redemption. 3. Justification required a sacrifice of atonement. And 4. Justification is accessed by faith. Special attention will be paid to faith. Our main text is Romans 4:13-5:1.
As we reflect on our many blessings this Thanksgiving we should never forget those things which God spoke for our benefit. The greatest of these is found in Romans 4 where Paul communicates that the righteousness of God is credited to us by faith in Jesus. Our text today includes Psalm 99, Leviticus 16, Romans 3:21-26, 4:13-25 and 5:1-2
This week we will learn what the kingdom of heaven is like. Through the words of Jesus, we gain knowledge of our responsibility as His followers. What will you do with your gift? Matthew 25:14-30
Today is all about context. We will spend our time in Romans 3:9-18 discovering what the Apostle Paul means by this very controversial passage. Other texts include Psalm 10:7, 14:1-3, 36:1, 53:1-3, 140:3, Jeremiah 5:16, and Isaiah 59:7-8.
My hope is that our answer will be threefold: 1. That we humbly walk in righteousness vs. hypocritically walk in unrighteousness. 2. That we do not just hear God's word but do it. And 3. That our lives show the covenant promise of God - a circumcised heart.
Today is week one of a new series on the book of Romans. We will set the stage as Paul shares with us a vital truth; We become like what we worship! Scriptures include Romans 1, Psalm 115:4-8, Luke 6:40 and Ephesians 5:1-2.
The Apostle Paul wrote that resurrection is of first importance. He also said that without the resurrection of the dead our faith is futile. But do you know why? Today we are going to answer that question, and I believe, walk away with a greater sense of purpose in every area of life! Our text is 1 Corinthians 15.
When it comes to determining right and wrong, we are inundated with opinions, well-meaning ideas, and even instincts. But as Christians, we have something far greater; the Spirit inspired words of God. Today we are going to learn from the Apostle Peter that age-old truth that "the word of the Lord endures forever." Our primary text is 1 Peter 1:13 - 2:3.
In this episode of The State we continue in our walk through the statement on social justice and the Gospel. Everything centers around the need to define justice in an objective way.
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Have you ever struggled with Jesus' command to "love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you?" In today's message, we're going to look at this idea in a more in-depth fashion. The goal is to marry the loving nature of God with His just character, thus giving us greater peace in obedience. Our main Scripture is Matthew 5:43-48.
In this weeks episode, we continue our discussion on social justice and the Gospel. The two main ideas are scripture and the image of God. Please consider hitting that subscribe button, we'd love for you to be a part of our team.
Today we'll continue to learn about Christian boldness. Many biblical accounts serve as prescriptions for how we're to approach life and this is especially true when learning how to declare God's word with boldness. Our scriptures include Proverbs 28:1, 2 Cor. 5:21, Psalm 138:3, Acts 4 along with many others.
Social Justice is a buzz phrase these days. Many believe it must be a part of the gospel. But is this true? We start by defining the terms.
If you were to describe Christians today would you use the word BOLD in your description? In today's message, we're learning about being bold for Christ. Our principal text today is Acts 4:23-31.
Today's message is about worship and the word of God. The story of Ezra/Nehemiah gives us great insight into how God's word provokes us to worship. Scriptures include Nehemiah, John 16 and Romans 8.
What's love got to do with it? In this episode of The State Nathan deals with love. Specifically loving people biblically and not as the culture demands.
As a church, we need to adopt a new phrase; "Grace-Fueled Obedience." In today's message, we learn how God's gracious sacrifice for us fuels our obedience to Him in all things. Scriptures include Luke 10:25-37, Deuteronomy 6:1-5 and Leviticus 19:1-18.
This is audio of the conversation that continues after The State EP 5 about gaming, porn and the men in the church. Thanks for listening and don't forget to hit that subscribe button for more content like this.
In this weeks episode of The State we take on gaming, porn and men in the church. This conversation was a productive one and we believe benificial to all who will listen.
Several articles were referenced here are the links if you'd like to check them out:
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/features/video-game-addiction-no-fun#1
https://www.cnn.com/2012/05/23/health/living-well/demise-of-guys/index.html
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/how-to-respond-to-the-video-game-crisis/
https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-video-games.html
https://www.challies.com/articles/christian-men-and-their-video-games/
What kind of zeal is God looking for in us? Today we will look at the zeal God has in accomplishing our salvation as our model. Scriptures include Isaiah 9:6-7, 53, 55:8-9 and Titus 2:11-15.
In this episode of the post-cast Nathan, Sarah, Adam and Brittany continue the conversation about entertainment and parenting.
What is the significance of healing a single lame beggar? Looking at Acts 3, we will see how God empowers his servants, using them to eliminate boundaries to His presence. Scriptures referenced will be Acts 3, Leviticus 21, Dueteronomy 18, Matthew 27, and Ezekiel 37.
In this episode, Nathan Franckhauser and the Adam Black discuss creativity and the Church. What is creativity? Why are only some creative expressions acceptable? Is there a difference between the creative process and the creative product?
In today's message, we pull everything we've learned together. Our scripture today is Titus chapter 2 along with various others.
Today we deal with young men! First, God expects young men to adorn the Gospel too. Second, it looks nothing like the young men of our culture today! Our text today is Titus 2:6-9 along with various others.
Today's message is all about women (both the young and... well, you get the point). God's prescription for women in adorning the Gospel is quite impressive, and probably nothing like you've been taught. Our scriptures today include Titus 2:3-5, Proverbs 31 and various others.
Today's message is all about how "older men" (husbands and fathers) adorn the Gospel of Jesus. Key themes include temperance, dignity, sensibility, and soundness of faith, love, and perseverance. Our scripture today is Titus 2:2 along with various others.
Today we begin a brandnew series titled "Adorn." Over the next four weeks, we're going to learn both that our lives are meant to adorn the Gospel and the specific ways God has called us to do so. Our primary text is Titus chapter 2.
What is the gospel? In today's message, we will begin to answer this question while also explaining why it's essential to have a full understanding. Our scriptures today include Romans 1:1-6, 16-19, Romans 2:1-8 and John 3:16-18.
This morning is all about God's power. As we bring our series "Knowing Jesus" to a close, we will be talking specifically about God's power towards us who believe. Our text for today is Ephesians 1:17-19, 1 Peter 3:15, Romans 8:28 and various other scriptures.
This morning is all about inheritance. We're going to see three critical aspects: 1. God's heritage in us 2. Our inheritance from Him and 3. The gloriously rich inheritance we receive "in the saints." Our text for today is Ephesians 1:11, 18, 4:14-16, 5:5 and various other scriptures.
Welcome to week two of our series Knowing Jesus. This morning we're going to discover what Paul calls "the hope of our calling." Our texts today include Ephesians 1:17-19 and 4:4.
This morning we began a brand new series titled Knowing Jesus. Over the next four weeks, studying Ephesians chapter 1, and praying for a "spirit of wisdom and revelation" our goal is to know Jesus more profoundly.
Today is the 4th and final part in our series Equipping The Saints; and its all about maturity. What does maturity really mean? What (or who) is the standard? And finally, how does maturity impact the Christian life? Today's text is Ephesians 4:11-13 and various other selected texts.
Today Nathan shares God's vision for unity. We also discover that unity is not produced by us it's preserved.
In today's message, Nathan defines works of service, how spiritual gifts fit into the equation and how all of this builds up the body of Christ. Today's message includes a testimony from Ryann Syvertsen.
Today Nathan "sets the table" for this brand new series Equipping The Saints. In this series, we will be looking at Ephesians 4:11-13; learning about equipping, works of service, unity, and maturity. We hope you'll join us!