New Eden Sermons: Recent Episodes
New Eden Church
This podcast contains the sermons preached at New Eden Church by Joel McCarty, our Pastor for Preaching, and others. Our preaching ministry exists to equip our local church to make disciples who worship, abide in, and reflect King Jesus in all of life.
We are encouraged to shout triumphantly before the Lord and sing to Him with great joy and gladness. We must understand that this response of singing and joy is not rooted in our worthiness, but instead in the eternal, unchanging character of the one who's worthy of worship.
In Psalm 127, we are reminded that it is God who ensures our safety and flourishing. In Christ, we belong to a beautiful family that is eternally secure. And this is good news for anxious hearts.
God is worthy of our blessing and worship. Psalm 103 reminds us of the benefits for God's people, mainly that in Christ, are sins are forgiven and removed as far as the east is from the west.
Have you ever been angry at wrong or injustice? Psalms 37 explores the honest questions that exist when it seems that the evil abound and the faithful remain in despair.
The Psalms call for full honesty from God's people - even in the moments where our hearts are not believing the truth about who God has revealed Himself to be. Through this honest confession and surrender, our hearts and minds are transformed and sanctified by the work of God's spirit alone.
The God we worship is not just a distant deity described in ancient poetry, but the living Jesus who stepped into our pain, conquered our enemies, and still draws near to the weak and weary today. Psalm 147 points us toward praise, but Jesus gives us the full reason to sing.
In part two of our series on deacons in the church, we explore what the Scriptures have to say about where deacons serve, who should be considered for the diaconate, and how they are established in the life of a local church.
In part one of our series on deacons in the church, we explore what the Scriptures have to say about when deacons are established, why their role is important, and what they actually are called to do.
Jesus taught His followers to pray with a shameless boldness. But why is this possible? And how can we trust that the Father actually wants us to pray in this manner?
"Give us each day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves also forgive everyone in debt to us. And do not bring us into temptation.” We can trust God, because He is the Lord of provision, forgiveness, and deliverance.
"Your Kingdom Come."
Implied in this prayer is full surrender to God's Kingdom not our own. But because of the work of Jesus, this is good news for a world full of division and death.
"Father, your name be honored as holy."
In the opening lines of the Lord's prayer, our eyes are lifted upward. We are reminded of God's identity, His sanctity, and by grace alone, we are invited into His family.
"He was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray..."
There was something about the way Jesus interacted with God that caused His disciples to want to know more. In this first sermon of the series, we explore how Jesus not only explained prayer, but also was the One Who enables prayer and makes it possible.
"My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far from my deliverance and from my words of groaning? My God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, by night, yet I have no rest."
The last chapter of Genesis summarizes many of the themes and truths scattered throughout the book. Only God is God and God is only good. And this good God is the only god who became like us so we could become like Him. Truly, He is working all things for good.
As Jacob's life comes to a close, we see a complete trust and assurance in the promises of God. As he speaks declarations over his son, we see that He is now operating with a Kingdom lens. And through his words to Judah and Joseph, we see beautiful foreshadows of the coming King.
The story of famine in Egypt serves to remind us of the futility of placing our hope in earthly possessions. Instead, we are encouraged to place our trust in the true heavenly provision offered us in Christ alone.
Even though Jacob's life had been hard and troublesome, God was faithful through the ups and downs. In the end, Jacob and his family was restored, reminded us that God can bring beauty from the darkest of circumstances.
"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect."
After 20 years have passed, Joseph comes face-to-face with his brothers who sold him into slavery. The tensions build leading up to the big reveal, when Joseph will forgive his brother's actions, even at significant cost to himself. This points us to the One who extends at even greater forgiveness, given to all who repent and believe the good news.
The source of Joseph's wisdom and power was not from within, but from God. And this wisdom and power was given for a purpose, the salvation of many souls. The source of all true wisdom, power, and salvation is from God and God alone.
"But speaking the truth in love, let us grow in every way into him who is the head—Christ. From him the whole body, fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament, promotes the growth of the body for building itself up in love by the proper working of each individual part."
Sold into slavery down to Egypt, Joseph is thrust into a situation of testing as he faces temptation from Potiphar's wife. Though Joseph does respond in an exemplary manner, humans need a better Joseph. One who does not flee when sin arrives but instead faces it head-on, defeating it through His life, death, and resurrection.
On its surface, this chapter contains one of the weirdest stories in all of Scripture. But tucked away in the story's details are beautiful pictures of God's grace toward the oppressed. The oft-forgotten Tamar stands to testify that God sees the lowly and bends his ear to the hurting. He gives them places of honor in His Kingdom and uses them for purposes more remarkable than they could ever imagine.
The saga of Genesis begins a new chapter, as we're introduced to Joseph, a character who will figure prominently in the story moving forward. His life will point us to the one true eternal King and Deliverer, Jesus the chosen Messiah.
*This short portion of the Sunday gathering was at the end of an update on our Global Partners. For security purposes, we cannot publish the full update publicly. For a private link, please email info@newedenchurch.org.
Mark records the genealogy of Jesus, stating that He was simply the Son of God. The boy born of the virgin Mary would grow to wage war on sin and death, defeating it through His life, death, burial, and resurrection.
Matthew reveals for us that the baby boy is the eternal King of the universe, come to bring redemption for all.
Nothing will be impossible with God! How can Someone be completely human and completely God? Luke is determined for his audience to know that the Savior of the world is the answer to the question.
There's always a story before the story. The story of God's redemptive plan for us began before the beginning and continues for eternity.
The prophet Malachi speaks of a coming day when all injustice and wickedness will be dealt with. But for those who stand in awe of God's name, this day is good news. God will dwell with His people, all tears will be wiped away, and all creation will be put to right.
The nation of Israel makes some strong accusations against God, putting Him on trial. The irony is that the nation was the guilty party, working injustice and withholding the tithe. So, God challenges them to try Him in a different way. Return to Him, test His character, and find out if He is faithful to His promises.
Individuals in the nation are committing acts of betrayal against God. This concerns Yahweh because betrayal against God always leads to betrayal against others, even their partners in the marriage covenant. Ultimately, this points us to the one faithful groom who's never betrayed His bride.
After reminding the nation of His love for them, God gets right into His case against the leaders of the nation - the priests. They had shunned their responsibilities, bringing chaos and cursing on God's people. The situation is dark, but it forces us to lift our eyes to the only true Priest of peace.
The prophet, Malachi, moderates a debate between God and His people. Israel's actions have proven that they are believing some lies about God, and these need to be challenged. God graciously starts by reminding them that no matter their earthly circumstances, He loves them. He always has, and He always will.
The Jacob portion of the story begins to wind down, and the narrator ties up some loose ends. The one constant through all the ups and downs, the highs and the lows, and the births and the deaths is this: God has been with Jacob everywhere he has gone.
The story gets dark and personal as Dinah, Jacob's daughter, is raped by a powerful man in a neighboring city. The act is reprehensible, and the story causes us to wonder what the response of the characters will be. Challenging ethical questions are raised about the solutions proposed, but the biggest question is this. Where is God, and how does he respond in the face of grave injustice?
*DISCLAIMER: This sermon contains themes of sexual abuse.
Chapter 15 of Luke contains one of the most familiar stories in the entire New Testament, the story of the prodigal son. Though this story has taken a life of its own, close examination causes us to stop and ask: Who really is the most prodigal one in the story?
God has been freely offering Jacob the blessing, but he's still striving to posture and earn. On the eve of a fearful meeting with his brother Esau, God interrupts and meets Jacob, speaking to him in the only language he'll understand - wrestling and striving.
The narrator of Genesis uses the close of the Jacob/Laban saga to reinforce an essential truth for God's people: "The Lord our God, the Lord is one." There are no other gods who compare to the one true God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This story is not about Jacob's superiority over Laban. It's about God's superiority against the false gods of this age. He alone is worthy.
Even while dwelling in a foreign land and even in the midst of much strife and pain, Jacob's family expands. God provides for this family - not because of their goodness but because of His. This points us to Jesus - the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise of a people and provision.
Jacob continues on the run, trying to escape the mess he created. But even as he runs, he can't outrun God's grace. Through the story of Jacob and his unwanted wife, Leah, we learn that there is grace abundant for the fleeing, the failing, and the forgotten.
God meets Jacob in the middle of his journey and confirms the unilateral promise of blessing. Even though Jacob has a hard time receiving this unconditional grace and still wants to bargain with God, he responds in worship the best way he can.
Rebekah and Jacob attempt to work out God's plans through deceitful means, which backfires and leads to division and the threat of death. Anytime humans try to play "God," chaos ensues. Thankfully, through a gracious inversion, God becomes human and puts everything back to right.
Isaac and his family are flooded with God's goodness, as they are given protection, provision, and peace - even while dwelling as foreigners in the midst of great famine. This provides us with a snapshot of Eden, foreshadowing the day when the true Shepherd will bring a new creation through his life, death, and resurrection.
God reveals that His upside-down way of working in the world will continue through a chosen one, Jacob, the younger of Rebekah's twins. This would've been a shocking revelation, but if we've been paying attention, we'll be in tune with the pattern that's emerging. This story points us forward to the most unlikely chosen One of all. And His success is guaranteed.
God has graciously revealed Himself to humanity through His creation and His word. Though this is remarkable, this revelation alone is not enough to redeem the world. The final revelation we're pointed to in Psalm 19 is the best news ever - God has revealed Himself finally and completely in the person of Jesus. And His redemption is offered to all.
God's design is that His people dwell in His presence. This is when we are most whole, happy, and secure. But this mission does not come without a cost. Christ Himself came and dwelt among sinful men and obeyed His Father, even unto death, so that we might be united to God's presence for eternity.
God's people are commanded to sing so that the praises of Yahweh might expand to every corner of the earth. But this isn't just any song. It's the song of God's salvation and kingship, that is ultimately fulfilled in the person of Christ. And when Jesus reigns, the entire earth will be at rest.
The psalmist, David, feels freedom to cry out and share with God how he feels, including making accusations against God Himself. But soon, his authentic anger gives way to a surprising joy and peace that is just as authentic. But how does this transformation happen? And is this same transformation possible for those of us who find ourselves still crying out, "How Long, O Lord?!?"
The Psalmist records a number of promises for the people of God in Psalm 91. But who are these promises really about? And how do they apply for us in our day and age? The answers drive us to rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
Where do we turn when we need help? False idols of this age clamor for our attention and trust, but there is only one strong tower where we can find shelter. This Kingdom of God cannot be shaken and the reign of King Jesus will never end. He is the Rock of Ages.
The matriarch, Sarah, passes off the scene, and Abraham purchases a burial plot on which to bury her. Rebekah, a new matriarch, enters the story through the selfless servant of Abraham. Endings and beginnings. Death and life. Is this all just a part of the circle of life? Or is God sovereignly weaving together a story to remind us of resurrection hope beyond what the eye can see?
Abraham is asked to do the unthinkable and sacrifice his son, Isaac. As we should be, our ears are repulsed by this request. But is God just a monster and one of the many deities who demand child sacrifice? Or is this story meant to show us that He is entirely different?
The 21st chapter of Genesis is a story of contrasts: the child of promise and the child of works, the well of grace and the well of striving, the oath of God and the oath of man. These contrasts are meant to point us to the truth that the works of flesh enslave, but the gospel of Jesus brings freedom.
Through his sin, Abraham puts both his wife, Sarah, and King Abimelech's whole household in danger. The story is laced with irony. The foreign king is presented as the righteous one, while the chosen prophet acts cowardly and brings cursing on the nation. The king is innocent, but he still has no power to reverse the effects of Abraham's sin. This story causes us to look forward to a better innocent king who willingly bears our sin to reverse the curse.
God hears the outcry of the oppressed in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, so He investigates. What He finds are some of the most heinous acts ever committed and the darkest parts of human hearts. But in the midst of this dark story, we might find ourselves realizing a truth so great that it's hard to believe. Could it really be that God's mercy on mankind is far greater than we could ever imagine?
When the circumstances of life make the promises of God seem impossible, God does His best work. Though we may shake our heads and laugh in unbelief, God graciously asks us to consider, "Is anything too hard for the Lord?"
Based on grace alone, God gives to His people a new identity, marked by the covenant sign of circumcision. And like all signs, it's meant to direct our eyes toward the destination - Jesus Himself.
God's people continue the pattern of making poor decisions that cause chaos to ensue, hurting those around them. But into the mess, God shows up and meets the most unlikely of people in the most unlikely of situations. Truly, He is the God who sees.
God reiterates His promises of a people and a place to Abram. But Abram still has questions. God meets Abram in his doubt and affirms His promises through a covenant ceremony. Except this covenant is radically unilateral, hinging solely on the character and commitment of God Himself.
Lot begins a pattern of finding himself in messy situations, sometimes innocently and sometimes because of his foolish choices. But just like Abram rescues Lot in this story, God is faithful to rescue His people over and over again.
The death, burial, and resurrection of Christ is the central truth upon which followers of Jesus stake their claim. But what if it's all a hoax? What if the flesh of Jesus rot in the grave like every other human? And what if this message is nothing more than a fairy tale?
Through the highs and the lows, through the ups and the downs, God is committed to His purposes and His people. We see this most clearly through the person of Christ. In this story from Genesis 12, Abram sacrifices His bride to save Himself. But in the gospel, Jesus sacrifices Himself to save His bride.
"The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry." But the plans of God never do. In spite of humanity's rebellion, God sees to it that His purposes still move onward.
God gives a permanent covenant promise and even gives a public sign to ensure its fulfillment. In spite of human's continued sin, God will see to it that redemption is possible.
From a place of deep sorrow and grief, God accelerates the destruction of the earth, along with the humans He created. But because God is committed to His partnership with humans, He will preserve a remnant safe through the waters of chaos.
The humans that God created to partner with Him in spreading goodness have only served to spread evil. God sees this and is deeply grieved. To preserve His good creation, He will purge the earth by sending a flood. But by His grace, He'll offer salvation through a righteous one.
Cain, the firstborn son of Eve, advances the line of the serpent through his sin. He murders his own brother, and the grasp of evil tightens. Humanity is exiled further east of Eden. But in the darkness, there are glimmers of hope and promises of redemption. A better brother will arise who will reunite us with the Father and bring us home.
The archetypal humans, Adam & Eve, make the first mistake recorded in Scripture. And this mistake is costly. Everything unravels, chaos returns, sin spreads, and it seems the adversary has won. However, even in the darkness, there are promises of hope. God will meet humanity in their exile with a plan to bring them back home.
From one human, God creates a union of counter-partners. Man and woman - in perfect communion with God, each other, and the earth. This beautiful one-flesh mystery points us to something even greater - Christ and His bride.
Friends of a paralyzed man decide to get him in front of Jesus at any cost. After breaking through a roof and lowering this man to Jesus, they can only sit back and watch the events unfold. What will this proclaimed Messiah say? Will he heal the man? Or will this simply be another failed attempt in a long line of many?
On the 6th day of creation, God places humanity in the garden to bear His image through cultivating life and beauty. And on the 7th day, God takes up residence, joining humans in His cosmic temple. Though they rebel against His partnership with them, God refuses to give up on His promise to humanity. A true human is coming who will bring eternal Sabbath for all who trust in Him.
From the chaos of nothingness, God creates order, beauty, and the potential for life and flourishing. Through this creation narrative, God's power, purpose, and goodness are on full display. But the enemy has other plans.
Genesis is a historical narrative, but even more than that, it is a theological story containing deep and abiding truths to which our hearts can cling. The one true God, who has created all things, keeps his covenant promises from generation to generation despite humanity's failures.
This Advent season, we are looking at various prophecies that Jesus fulfills through his incarnation. In the early pages of Scripture, we hear the promise of a Victor. One is coming who can crush the head of the serpent and deal with sin and evil. He is the hope in the midst of our conflict and strife.
This Advent season, we are looking at various prophecies that Jesus fulfills through his incarnation. The prophet Isaiah tells of one who is coming to rule the world with justice and righteousness. He is the one true King we all long for.
This Advent season, we are looking at various prophecies that Jesus fulfills through his incarnation. In Isaiah, we read of one who will come and shepherd His people with love, compassion, power, and strength. But this same Shepherd will also become the lamb slain for the sins of the world. *The speaker is one of our global church planting partners. His name is withheld for security purposes.
This Advent season, we are looking at various prophecies that Jesus fulfills through his incarnation. In Deuteronomy, Moses promised that one day, another prophet would arise like him, but better. All prophets pointed forward to Jesus, the One who would come to redeem the world from sin and death.
The letter from James closes with encouraging the church to corporately commune with God on a regular basis. In response to this call, we spent our time praying through the book of James together.
James indicts wealthy oppressors who were hoarding money and indulging in luxury while persecuting others. He then turns to encourage his brothers and sisters, who find themselves in the midst of all types of suffering. He calls for active patience and trust in the Judge who is returning soon and will judge all things with justice and righteousness.
The church is challenged by James to consider their relationships and their planning for the future. Though seemingly unrelated, how we approach these two topics reveals whether we operate out of humility or arrogance. For those who have been captured by Jesus, the only room for boast is in the cross of Christ.
James gives us a clear comparison between two types of wisdom - earthly or godly. Where do they come from, and what is their fruit? The choice is clear. But what is the hope for fools who find themselves operating under earthly wisdom?
Within the gift of our tongue, we each hold incredible power. But humans throughout history have found ways to misuse the gift of the tongue to destroy and curse others, and we are no different. No one can tame the tongue, but one: the God-man, Jesus Christ.
"Are you willing to learn that faith without works is useless?" James explores the relationship between faith and works, and because he cares, he challenges his hearers to be honest about where they stand.
*The speaker is one of our global church planting partners. His name is withheld for security purposes.
James begins getting direct and practical as he challenges the prejudices of his readers. He makes his accusation, reveals the absurdity of their prejudices, and calls them to accountability. But James refuses to leave them hopeless. There is an antidote to our sin, and it's the mercy of God. Because mercy always triumphs over judgment.
Before James begins practical exhortation, he encourages his readers to humbly listen to the truth presented to them. But it's not enough to listen. True hearers will also become doers by intently looking into the perfect law of freedom, the true and better Torah, who lived perfectly on our behalf.
Because James cares about his readers, he warns them of the deceitfulness of sin. He exposes the origin of sin and its outcome of death, but he doesn't leave us hopeless. The obituary of sin has been written through the living Word of truth, who became flesh and defeated sin and its effects.
With few pleasantries, James immediately begins his exhortation to the scattered church. His desire for them is to mature into complete and whole followers of Christ, not distracted by the world's ways. May we, too, be rooted on the solid rock so we will not be tossed to and fro by the waves of life.
In keeping with the rest of his letter, the greeting from James is short and to the point. This piece of literature, penned in the prophetic, wisdom style typically reserved only for the Old Testament, will challenge and exhort us. But to understand the contents of the letter, we must first look at its author. Who was James? And why does he care about the way people live?
To close out our series in Hebrews, we listened as the entire book of Hebrews was read aloud in one sitting. We encourage you to listen as the early church would have. No written copy of the Scriptures. No pen and paper. Just simply receiving and meditating on the glorious truths about Jesus the Messiah.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. If this is true, we are called to entrust our lives to Him, following in the path of others who have done the same. We can be confident that He will shepherd us to the end.
*The speaker is one of our global church planting partners. His name is withheld for security purposes.
Concisely and clearly, the preacher exhorts his listeners about the way they view marriage and money. What we do in these areas reveals what we truly believe about finding our satisfaction in Christ or the things of this age. We are instructed to hold marriage in honor, hold money loosely, and hold Jesus supremely.
As the preacher begins to close his message, he gives some pastoral instructions and encouragements for the church of Hebrews. Those who are apprentices of Jesus are called to love each other, care for "the other", and remember the sufferer.
In Christ, we have received a Kingdom that cannot be shaken. Our response of gratitude spurs us on to care for each other as the church - pursuing peace, holiness, and eternal realities instead of temporal pleasures.
After eleven chapters of exposition on the supremacy of Christ, the preacher of Hebrews spurs his hearers to consider Jesus. Only by looking to His resistance against sin can we remain steadfast amidst the pressures of this age.
Abraham & Sarah were promised a place and a people. But years later, there was still no fulfillment of the promises. By faith, they looked forward to the final homeland, where God prepares an eternal place of rest for his people.
Enoch pleased God and avoided death. And the book of Hebrews makes it clear that Enoch pleased God by faith alone. Because Jesus has tasted death for everyone, we too can please God and avoid eternal death.
By faith, Moses experienced an unseen reality, trusting in God's promises more than Egypt's fleeting pleasures. Through the life of Moses, we are reminded of the true King, the true people of God, the true treasure, and the precious blood of Jesus.
Abel is only mentioned briefly in the Scriptures, and we don't hear him speak. However, his blood cries out from the ground, asking God how long until justice is had. The answer comes 77 generations later when the blood of Jesus is shed and speaks better things over us.
*The speaker is one of our global church planting partners. His name is withheld for security purposes.
After a long list of naming heroic feats performed through faith, the author of Hebrews tells us of "the others". These were a group of people who suffered by faith, knowing that a better resurrection was in store.
Rahab the prostitute. Listed alongside the likes of King Daniel, the prophet Moses, and the patriarch Abraham. Her story bears witness to the truth that God saves and sends sinners and outsiders.
Abel. Enoch. Noah. Abraham. Sarah. Isaac. Moses. Joshua. Rahab. Gideon. David. Samuel. The Prophets. The list reads like a "Hall of Failures", not a "Hall of Faith". But faith is what caused these men and women to be approved through God. And that same faith is offered to us, so that we might be approved by the Father.
The truly righteous One is coming, and He's bringing with Him vengeance and vindication. Other than Christ, there is no other sacrifice for sins. And it is through faith in Him that we receive salvation.
In a crescendo of truth, the preacher of Hebrews summarizes all he has been saying about the saving work of the triune God. In light of these new covenant realities, we can now partner with God and each other until the day that all things are made new.
God appeared into the world, taking on flesh in the person of Christ, that He might be the final sacrifice offered for mankind. His blood is like no other, because it has the power to remove sin completely. Past. Present. Future.
Located within the Tabernacle, the Most Holy Place was the supreme sacred space in all of ancient Israel. It represented access to God's presence, and could only be entered by one person, once a year on the Day of Atonement. But when Jesus appeared in flesh, He brought something greater. God's presence is now available for everyone at all times through the work of the gospel.
From the early pages of Scripture, the idea of covenants between God and humanity is prevalent. In fact, the old Mosaic Covenant is one of the main foundational concepts that is drawn upon by the pastor of Hebrews. But there was something wrong with this old covenant. What is it? And what is the new thing that Jesus institutes with His life, death, burial, and resurrection?
While Jesus was on earth, He never performed the work of an earthly priest. Because He was here to inaugurate something greater, as a minister of the true tabernacle not made with hands. And the good news is, we're invited to join Him into the presence of God.
The preacher of Hebrews makes it clear - the law was weak, unprofitable, and incomplete. But this truth does not leave us without hope. Because the law has been superseded by something greater that will never fade - Jesus. He is what the law was always destined to point us to, and this is evidenced by the power of His indestructible life.
Feel the ground shake as morning breaks // On that third day, stone rolls away // Up from the grave, Jesus has raised // Loosed the chains, death is now slain // Let all the earth proclaim, “King Jesus reigns!”
Jesus rides into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, but it's not how anyone would have imagined. Instead of riding on a warhorse, He's mounted on a donkey. Instead of celebrating with His friends, He's weeping for His enemies. But this is the path to peace, fulfilling promises made long ago of the One who would come and save the world.
Melchizedek is a mysterious priest-king only mentioned in the Scriptures twice. Yet, he points us to an even greater mystery - that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
"It is impossible for God to lie. So, we who have fled for refuge can have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain. Jesus has entered there on our behalf as a forerunner."
The preacher warns his listeners of becoming bored of Jesus, which will lead to spiritual immaturity. To spur the church on, he encourages them to dive deep and remain steadfast in the gospel, which will guide them to maturity and a patient faith in Christ's return.
Before God, all hearts are exposed and naked. But the preacher of Hebrews reminds us that this is not cause for us to cower in fear. Rather, because of Christ's finished work, we are exhorted to run boldly to the throne of grace, where the true and faithful High Priest ever intercedes for us.
The warning from Hebrew's preacher continues, exhorting his listeners to make every effort to enter God's rest. But how do we work to stop striving? And what do we do when we find ourselves restless?
Watch out. Pay attention. Take notice. The warning is given, exhorting the church to beware of sin's deception leading to a rejection of Christ's work. But what is the root cause behind that rejection and disobedience? And how do we respond when we find ourselves staring it in the face?
The preacher of Hebrews continues his exposition by pointing our focus on Jesus as better than Moses. Moses served as one of the members of God's household, but Jesus is the architect, the planner, the builder, and the completer of the entire thing.
Death is undefeated. And because of sin, every human is impacted by death and is powerless to stop it. But Jesus did not leave us alone in our battle against death and sin. In fact, He came to do the entire work of destroying death and sending it back to the grave where it belongs.
Through His suffering, Jesus is creating a new family as He brings many sons and daughters to glory. Through His life, death, burial, and resurrection, we are invited into this family and receive all the privileges of God as our Father. Jesus is our better older brother who brings us home with shouts of joy and celebration.
Humans were created to bring about flourishing in the world by reflecting the image of God. As it is, we don't see humans living up to their purpose. But we do see Jesus, the true human, who by God's grace, tasted death for everyone, so that all might feast on life and be created into a new humanity.
The preacher of Hebrews begins to make the case for the superiority of Jesus by making his first comparison - Jesus is better than the angels. For all hearers of this book, there is danger of drifting away from the only thing that ultimately matters - Christ and Him crucified.
In the opening lines of Hebrews, the author sets the stage for the focal point of the entire book - the supremacy of Jesus. In all things and in all ways, Jesus is better. Period.
Joel McCarty & Alyssa Hickinbotham • As a part of our 2023 Vision Sunday, our Pastor for Preaching shared a recap of 2022. He then interviewed Alyssa Hickinbotham, who recently joined New Eden as an Intern for Global Church Planting.
Joel McCarty • The mission of New Eden church is to make disciples who worship, abide in, and reflect King Jesus in all of life. But who is a disciple, what is their purpose, and how do they grow? In this Vision Sermon, we seek to define what we mean by discipleship.
Simeon and Anna had waited for years to see the promised Messiah. How would he come? And what will He do when He arrives? With the advent of Jesus, every question will be answered, and every longing fulfilled. The Savior is finally here.
Joel McCarty • Zechariah prophesies with boldness and joy when his son, John the Baptist, is born. However, his path to this prophetic song of praise began with nine months of silence. And during this time of pondering, he learned what really mattered - God breaks the silence with the birth of His Son.
Joel McCarty • The virgin Mary sings a song of prophetic hope about the birth of Jesus. God has looked on her with favor, and for all in Christ, we can join her in song.
Joel McCarty • Paul closes this epistle by calling the church to good works as a witness to the transforming power of the gospel. But these good works do not come from our own strength. They only come by the renewing power of the Holy Spirit that is poured out on us through the work of Christ.
In the midst of a letter filled with practical encouragement, the apostle Paul gives Titus a flood of gospel hope for the church. The work of Christ is what has saved us from our sin in the past, it is what transforms us in the present, and it is the future hope we hold on to.
*The speaker is one of our global church planting partners. His name is withheld for security purposes.
Joel McCarty • Paul gives Titus a snapshot of what a healthy church community would look like in the midst of a rebellious Cretan culture. The way we display the message of Jesus matters, because it offers the world an attractive picture of love, faith, and endurance.
Kevin Perry • Paul encourages Titus to establish elders for a specific reason. There are false teachers perverting the gospel of Jesus and they need to be silenced. There is no room for legalism in the Kingdom of God.
Joel McCarty • The first order of business in Crete is for Titus to appoint elders among the churches so they can be further established. Why is this important? And why does Jesus care that the church has these under-shepherds in place?
Joel McCarty • The apostle Paul penned this letter to encourage Titus as he shepherded the churches on the island of Crete. This short book packs a punch, and as always, contains extraordinary insight and life-giving hope for the Church today.
Joel McCarty • The book of Daniel closes with one final vision about great battles between kings and empires, culminating in the persecution of God's people. So naturally, Daniel wants to know how he should respond. The encouragement given to him is to simply go on his way, trusting and waiting on God to act, and an inheritance of life will be his reward.
Joel McCarty • The prophet Daniel prays on behalf of his people, and it is a prayer of confession rooted in the character of God. Will God act? How will He deal with the rebellion of His people? And will He be faithful to His covenant promises?
Joel McCarty • Daniel's prophetic visions continue, as he sees future empires rise and fall with even more detail than before. These visions trouble Daniel, and cause him to become ill. But because he trusts the word and work of God, he endures and continues about the king's business.
Joel McCarty • The second half of Daniel begins with the first of four visions revealing a heavenly perspective of God's rule and reign. Even when it looks like evil kings and kingdoms are in control, in the end, God wins. And His people will rule and reign with Him forever.
Kevin Perry • Because of his faithfulness, Daniel is thrown into a den of lions to be destroyed. But the mouth of the lions is shut, Daniel is rescued, and his enemies get what they deserve. If you grew up in the church, this is a story you are familiar with. But what is the point of it? And who is the real hero in this narrative?
Joel McCarty • Nebuchadnezzar's successor takes the throne and refuses to learn any lessons from the former king. He revels in his pride and mocks the God of Israel. But the revelry would not last long before the writing would be on the wall.
Joel McCarty • Nebuchadnezzar continues to take credit for the prosperity of his earthly kingdom, Babylon. Yet God makes it clear that strength and prosperity come from Him alone. The lesson of chapter 4 is clearly stated by the transformed king at the end of the chapter - God is able to humble those who walk in pride.
Joel McCarty • Meshach, Shadrach, and Abednego are faced with a decision. When offered with the opportunity to worship a false god, they choose to place their hope in the God of Israel at the expense of their own life. In this case, they are delivered from the fiery furnace. But what about when life doesn't pan out? What does our worship look like in those moments?
Joel McCarty • Our series of stories continues with the king of Babylon having a dream that he can't understand. By His grace, God gives the interpretation to Daniel, who reveals to Nebuchadnezzar a truth that we all need to hear - all wisdom and power originates from God alone.
Joel McCarty • Daniel stands as an exemplary portrait of faithfulness for the people of God. But what happens when our faithfulness doesn't turn to earthly success? And even worse, what happens when we are unfaithful?
Joel McCarty • The stories and visions in the book of Daniel reveal a lot of truths, but one stands above all - through exile, suffering, and loss, God is sovereignly working all things for the good of His people and the expansion of His glory.
Blake Whitt • The majesty and glory of God is commonly revealed through creation and humanity. But uniquely, we see God's glory most clearly through the work of Christ as He creates a new humanity.
Andrew Calvert • David was confident that God would hear his cry because he trusted in God for his vindication, his joy, and his safety. Like David, may we find all of our vindication and safety in Christ.
Luke Whaley • David offers thanksgiving to God even in the midst of difficult circumstances. As we reflect on who Christ is, what Christ has done, and what Christ is going to do, gratitude rises in our soul and transforms us from the inside out.
Kevin Perry • When we are at the lowest points of our life, to whom do we turn? Even in his iniquity, David prays to God with an unmatched boldness. From past experience, he fully trusts that God will answer his desperate cry.
Chris Kenney • What is your refuge? To what do you run when seeking shelter or protection? Where do you go and what do you do? What emotions do you feel? And what does God have to say about this?
Joel McCarty • With a simple plant, God uses a real life object lesson to give Jonah another opportunity to learn more about God's character. Will Jonah surrender his own ideas of justice and mercy? Or will he continue to make God into his own image?
Jeff Toomer • Who are the real heroes of our day and age? We go to movies; read literature; our kids play pretend games that all have the same theme: there’s a hero; some guy or gal saves the day and makes everything awesome. But in the real world where we live and work and play, who do you consider a true hero? The word of the Lord comes to a hesitant prophet named Jonah, and it’s through Jonah that we learn heroes— those who make a difference — are simply the ones who say “yes.”
Joel McCarty • The book of Jonah causes us to look for salvation from someone greater than Jonah. Through the providence, power, patience, and person of YHWH, God's covenant people will be held fast to the end. Truly, salvation belongs to the LORD.
Joel McCarty • Jonah is a familiar story many of us learned when we were children. However, the real story of Jonah is more rich than we could imagine at first glance. The main character of the story is Yahweh, the one true God of Israel. And He is sure to chase down and pursue His people, no matter how hard we try to run away.
Christians are called to fight the good fight of faith. But what does this mean? And what obstacles stand in the way of us doing so? May we look to the One who fought the ultimate battle on our behalf for guidance in this endeavor.
Chris Kenney • The glory of God covers the earth by the Kingdom expanding to all nations, tribes, and tongues. The good news is that Christ has already accomplished the work, and we're invited to play a part.
Joel McCarty • John closes his gospel narrative reminding us that what Jesus has accomplished with His life, death, burial, and resurrection is uncontainable. There is no way to measure what Christ has done and will do. He is altogether marvelous and good.
Joel McCarty • Peter has fallen and forsaken his calling. But Jesus relentlessly pursues and meets him in his place of shame. For those in Christ, redemption is not only possible. Because of the cross and resurrection, redemption is guaranteed.
Kevin Perry • Thomas is skeptical. But Jesus shows up anyways. Through doubt, skepticism, confusion, and pain, Jesus remains faithful. This story is recorded so that we might believe in King Jesus, and that by believing, we might find life in His name.
Joel McCarty • In spite of their fear and confusion, Jesus shows up in the midst of His disciples. Through His life, death, and resurrection, followers of Jesus can be assured that they are safe and secure. And because of the Holy Spirit’s presence, we can be confident in the mission we are sent on.
Joel McCarty • Mary Magdalene comes to the tomb early on Easter morning and finds the stone rolled away. Frantic, she assumes someone has stolen the body of Jesus and runs to tell the news. However, when she returns, she has a personal encounter that changes her life forever.
Joel McCarty • "Then they took Jesus away. Carrying the cross by himself, he went out to what is called Place of the Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. There they crucified him and two others with him, one on either side, with Jesus in the middle. Pilate also had a sign made and put on the cross. It said: Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews."
Joel McCarty • In John's gospel, we are presented with many layers that help us see that Jesus is the key to unlocking all history. He is the true Man, the true King, and the true Lamb.
Joel McCarty • In his gospel account, John is telling us a new creation story. Jesus is the true and better human who remains faithful in the garden, as He inaugurates the Kingdom of God. Earthly kingdoms will come and go, but God's Kingdom will remain forever.
Kevin Perry • Jesus pray for himself, the eleven disciples, and all believers who will follow after. As we get a glimpse into this prayer, Jesus not only lets us hear what He prays for, but also the motivations behind His requests.
Kevin Perry • Jesus tells His disciples to cheer up, but this isn't just a cliché. There is a reason for them to be of good cheer - Jesus is the Rock that has conquered the world.
Joel McCarty • Jesus tells His disciples that sorrow is coming soon, but their suffering is not meaningless. The pain that awaits them will serve to produce a joy can never be taken away.
Joel McCarty • Jesus said it was more beneficial for Him to go away so that His followers could receive the presence of the Holy Spirit. And if we grasp this amazing truth, we'll never be the same.
Joel McCarty • Jesus is honest and upfront with His disciples about the persecution that awaits them. In fact, He guarantees it. But by His grace, He also guarantees that in the end, persecution will simply serve the glorious purposes of God.
Jamey Nettles • Abiding in Christ is the key to the transformative life of the Christian. Jesus was plain. Without remaining in Him, we can do nothing.
Joel McCarty • As Jesus nears the end of His life, He makes it clear that His disciples, and all who follow in faith afterward, will never be alone. The triune God will see to it that He cares for those who are His.
Joel McCarty • The way to union with God is not a formula to follow or a new list of things to do. The way to God is through a person. And His name is Jesus.
Joel McCarty • As Jesus begins to prepare the disciples for His departure, He leaves them with a command: “Love one another as I have loved you.” And even though this command comes with a cost, it will create a whole new community of love.
Joel McCarty • Satan enters Judas, attacking the promised Light of the world. But this attack is no match for the sovereign purposes of God. Jesus responds by standing in faith, sitting in grief, eating with sinners, and pressing on with hope.
Joel McCarty • The Creator of the universe bends down and washes the feet of His disciples. This would have been scandalous and shocking. But this is the way the Kingdom moves forth. We are saved by the service of Jesus to the service of Jesus.
Joel McCarty • We are asking the Holy Spirit for two main things in 2022: that we would be able to plant deep roots as a church family and that He would keep us ever dependent on Him as we engage in the work of making disciples.
Joel McCarty • Jesus came into a dark world to bring light to man. The promise of light is for all who repent and believe the good news of Jesus and His Kingdom. This is the hope of Christmas. God with us.
Joel McCarty • Even though Jesus has shown sign after sign, He is still rejected. But this rejection of Jesus does not thwart His plan. In fact, this rejection will only serve to further display the glory of a good and gracious God to the entire world.
Joel McCarty • Jesus wants to make clear that we understand what it means to truly follow Him, even unto death. But Jesus will not call us to somewhere that He has not first been. Yes, to follow Jesus is to die. But to follow Him is also the only way to truly live.
Kevin Perry • Jesus enters Jerusalem triumphantly as the chosen Messiah. However, the way in which He chooses to announce His kingly rule is not like anything this world expects. Humble and sitting on a donkey’s colt. And through this upside-down way, He will save the world. Hosanna. Save us now.
Joel McCarty • Mary of Bethany performs a sacrificial and scandalous act of extravagant love as she anoints the feet of Jesus. This act points us the sacrificial and scandalous love of Jesus, displayed most clearly on the cross as He dies for sins of the world.
Joel McCarty • The message and ministry of Jesus stood in the way of the religious leaders and their quest for power and control. So, they came up with a solution - kill Jesus. Little did they know that their plans to get rid of Jesus would lead to something much greater than the earthly nation they were trying to save. The death of Jesus would bring about the global plan of God to restore a people from every nation, tribe, and tongue.
Andrew Calvert • Lazarus is dead. And even though he wasn't healed before his death, Jesus is still in control. In this story, Jesus will perform His greatest sign yet when He raises Lazarus from the dead. But this sign points to an even greater work - the raising of dead hearts to life.
Joel McCarty • The religious leaders were upset that Jesus, as a man, claimed to be God. However, if we have ears to hear, the real scandal is that God became a man to make us sons and daughters of the Father.
Joel McCarty • Jesus exposes the false religious leaders of Israel, and He reveals Himself as the one true, good Shepherd of His people. The true Shepherd always sees, secures, sacrifices, and saves those who are His.
Joel McCarty • Jesus heals a man born blind, showing that He is the promised one who can undo the effects of the fall. But He refuses to let the man be content with just physical sight. He has come to deal with spiritual blindness too.
Kevin Perry • As Jesus continues to proclaim explicit truth, He does not avoid the necessary conflict it leads Him into. However, He remains steadfastly focused on love for those to whom He is speaking. This is seen most clearly as Jesus walks into the greatest conflict as He faces death on a cross, so that those who believe can have eternal life.
Joel McCarty • Jesus is the truth who sets us free. And when the Son of God sets us free, we are actually free. Free from guilt in our past. Free from fear of the future. And free from shame in the present.
Joel McCarty • Jesus is clear as He warns about the realities of death, sin, and separation from the Father. But in the midst of the bad news, He also shares the best news ever - He is the rescue from death that we are all in need of.
Joel McCarty • Jesus stood before the crowd and made the claim that He was the light of the world. Why was this offensive to the religious leaders? And why is this good news for those wandering in the darkness?
Joel McCarty • A woman caught in adultery is brought before Jesus as He’s teaching in the temple. With this woman sitting in the midst of a giant crowd, what will His response be? Will He condemn her? Will He condone her sin? Or is there a third way?
"For the good of the world and the glory of God" is a part of our Vision Statement, and a big piece of that is global mission work. Our Sunday Gathering this week was a commissioning service for B & R, a couple from our body we are sending out to be career cross-cultural missionaries among an unreached people group.
Joel McCarty • The kingship of Jesus, the dignity of humans, and the importance of the church are three core truths that keep us on focus as we engage on the mission of God in the world.
Joel McCarty & Kevin Perry • Our vision is the flourishing of Decatur for the good of the world and the glory of God. And our mission is to make disciples who worship King Jesus, abide in King Jesus, and reflect King Jesus to the world in all areas of life. God has been faithful since we first launched public gatherings one year ago.
Jamey Nettles • In this ancient Psalm of Ascent, we learn that God’s care for His people is constant, close, and comprehensive.
(*Sermon by a guest preacher.)
Kevin Perry • David shares about the joy he has as a result of his sins being forgiven. The source of true joy comes from outside of ourselves, and can only be experienced through belief in the work of Jesus.
Joel McCarty • When we experience brokenness in life, Psalm 74 is a guide map to lead us. We see the reality of evil, the remembrance of God, and the response of prayer.
*We apologize for the poor sound quality of the recording. We experienced some technical difficulties.
Matt Herring • "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night."
(*Sermon by a guest preacher.)
Joel McCarty • Jesus offers up true and living water to all who are thirsty. Receiving this gift is not based on intellect, position, or ethnicity, but instead on belief in the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.
Joel McCarty • Jesus reminds the crowds again of His person, His power, and His passion. He is the Messiah sent by the Father to powerfully accomplish the work He was sent to do - save the world and spread the glory of God to the world. And for everyone who believes this message, they become a new person with new power and a new passion for God's glory among all people.
Joel McCarty • Contrary to popular belief, Jesus encourages His listeners to judge. But they need to judge with righteous judgment, not with judgment influenced by the world. True judgment only comes from God Himself, and this truth is either the best or worst news ever, depending on what we do with Jesus.
Joel McCarty • As the crowds leave due to the hard teachings of Jesus, the attention turns to the twelve closest disciples. Will they also leave? Or will they remain?
Joel McCarty • No hidden signs. No hidden message. Jesus makes His truths plain. He is the true Bread of Life who gives Himself for the world. He is the sent one who saves sinners and sustains the saints.
Joel McCarty • The disciples are alone and in trouble. The chaotic sea is tossing their boat around and they are frantically trying to survive. But in the midst of the storm, Jesus reveals His presence and His power.
Joel McCarty • In a familiar story, Jesus feeds over 5,000 people with just five loaves and two fish. But true provision from Jesus isn’t in the giving of bread to empty stomachs. It’s in the giving of Himself to empty souls.
Joel McCarty • Jesus has made some bold claims about His identity and the religious leaders don’t like it. To validate His claims, He brings to the stand five different witnesses giving evidence that He is who He says He is. But as we keep reading, we find that Jesus isn’t the one on trial. We are.
Kevin Perry • Jesus is one with His Father, and He always works in agreement with in His will. And for all who trust in Jesus, they will also become one with the Son and the Father through the power of the Spirit. This is good news for all who will hear and receive.
Joel McCarty • Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath causing us to look deeper at what He is doing as His Kingdom moves forth. He is reversing the curse and making a way for us to enter into true and eternal rest.
Joel McCarty • The Galilean crowd is happy to welcome Jesus into their region, but why are they really happy He is there? Is it because of Jesus or because of the signs and wonders He's performed? Jesus isn't content to just let us believe in His works. He wants to move us to full faith and trust in His life, death, burial, and resurrection.
Joel McCarty • The women come to the tomb on Easter morning to anoint the body of Jesus, but they find something unexpected. The stone has been rolled away and the body of Jesus is nowhere to be found. But the angel brings good news: “He is not here, because He is risen, just as He said!” The resurrection of Jesus inaugurates the new creation and transforms us as we get caught up in His story.
Joel McCarty • As Jesus entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, the crowds clamored and cheered to prepare the way for their messianic King. Little did they know that just five days later, their Messiah would be placed on a cross to die for the world. But in the death and resurrection of Jesus, He was the true One preparing the way for all to worship Him.
Jarrian Wilson • Jesus met the Samaritan woman and changed her life. Leaving her water jar and without being told, she ran back to the city to share the good news she had experienced with those who had once seen her as an outcast. This is the natural response of one who has been satisfied in Jesus.
Kevin Perry • The Samaritan woman had come to draw water to quench her earthly thirst. However, in His sovereignty, Jesus knew that this woman was longing for something much greater than just a temporary fix. She needed the gift of God and the living water that only Jesus could bring.
Joel McCarty • The followers of John the Baptist were bothered that Jesus' followers were also baptizing people, and their response revealed their heart. But John wasn't bothered. He knew that for the Kingdom of God to advance in the world, that he must decrease and Jesus must increase.
Joel McCarty • Nicodemus came to Jesus wanting to know how his status in the Kingdom of God could be enhanced. But Jesus sees into the heart of man, and he challenges Nicodemus that entrance into the Kingdom is based not on ethnicity, pedigree, or theological prowess. Entrance into God's Kingdom must be predicated by new birth, which is wrought only through the work of Jesus by the Spirit in our lives. This is why God sent Jesus into the world - to save sinners. The gospel is not a formula to be followed, but a truth to be proclaimed and believed.
Alexander Wade • Jesus didn't come to simply tweak the old system and clean it up a bit. With His arrival, He was bringing a whole new way and flipping the status quo on its head. In the presence of Jesus, manipulation of God for earthly gain wouldn't be tolerated. But even in a world that had missed the point of the temple, there was hope. Because a better temple was here.
(*Sermon by a guest preacher.)
Joel McCarty • Contrary to popular opinion, Jesus didn't walk around all the time as a somber ascetic. You could often find Him at parties and celebrations, hanging out with His own disciples and sinners alike. But what distinguished Jesus from others was that He never forgot the reason for the party. Resurrection was coming, and that was reason for celebration.
Joel McCarty • The invitation into the life of Jesus is one that is open for anyone. We are invited to simply come and see if Jesus is who He says He is. And long before we ever saw Jesus, we were seen by Him. This is good news.
Kevin Perry • John the Baptizer knew that he was simply a voice preparing the way for the Messiah. His role was to point to the Lamb of God who had come to take away the sin of the world. This is the one we look to for our salvation. Come behold His beauty.
Joel McCarty • Until this point, no human had been able to see the full shining weight of God's glory and greatness and still live. But John shows us that through the person and work of Jesus, God has graciously revealed his goodness to us in a way that we could receive it. Truly this is grace upon grace.
Joel McCarty • The author of this gospel account takes a brief moment to introduce us to the theme of witness by telling us about the prophet, John. This prophet, commonly called John the Baptizer, was sent to bear witness and testify about the true light coming into the world. When faced with this witness about Jesus the Messiah, there are only two responses we can have - reject Him or receive Him.
Joel McCarty • John begins his gospel narrative before time even existed - in the beginning. The person of Jesus has always existed in perfect unity and relationship with the Father, but now, the Word has come to a dark world in time and space. And as the Word takes on flesh, He brings the new creation, light, and life to all who believe.
Joel McCarty • Love is a word we hear used a lot in our culture. But who defines what love really is? To know true love, we must look to the cradle, the cross, and the resurrection of Jesus.
Kevin Perry • For the follower of Jesus, joy can be a confusing emotion. At some level, we know we are supposed to be experiencing joy. But where does true joy come from? And what should Christians do when they aren't experiencing joy?
Joel McCarty • We hear a lot of talk about peace around the Christmas season. But what is the true understanding of peace as taught from the Scriptures? And is having peace really possible in the midst of a chaotic world?
Kevin Perry • As the people of God wait for the coming of Jesus, we wait with hope. And the hope we have is a hope that is based on the promises of Jesus. As Jesus came before, so He will come again to save those who are His.
Joel McCarty • "Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen."
Jim Menne • In this letter, we are called to contend for the faith. And to this point, Jude has made clear who the false teachers are. Now he pivots to address the "beloved", the true church, and to tell them how they are to go about contending for the most holy faith that was delivered once for all to the saints.
*sermon by guest preacher
Joel McCarty • Jude gets specific about the false teachers and uses historical examples familiar to his readers to expose them. The end result of trusting in false teachers and their teaching is destruction and judgment. So where do we turn? In whom do we trust? Jude calls us to turn to Jesus and to place our only trust in him.
Joel McCarty • Jude writes this letter to appeal to the church to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. In the midst of a world casting off authority, led only by desire for selfish pleasure, believers are called to be on guard against wrong beliefs that lead to wrong actions. The challenge we are presented with is one of authority. Who is our king? Who is our master?
Joel McCarty • Amos sees the most destructive vision yet, culminating with the total destruction of the nation of Israel. But in the midst of the darkness, there is an unexpected promise - one of future hope and restoration. The final Kingdom and the new creation will be ushered in. But who can cause this hope to rise from the ashes? There is only one - the God-man, Jesus the Messiah.
Brian Metz • Amos sees a vision predicting the destruction and darkness awaiting the nation of Israel as they have forsaken God's covenant and oppressed the poor and needy. Along with Israel, all of humanity rightly deserves to receive the wrath of God. But Jesus entered into the darkness on our behalf, providing a way of hope for all who believe.
*sermon by guest preacher
Joel McCarty • The message of Amos is rejected by the people of Israel, but Amos still continues to speak truth. Because ultimately, Amos knows that what He speaks is God's truth, not his own. And because of Israel's rejection of this message, Amos prophesies that they will be sent off into exile. But there is One coming who will cross heaven and earth to win His people back and bring them into covenant union once again.
Joel McCarty • Even though Amos has been honest about rampant injustice among the people of God, he still pleads to God for mercy on their behalf. In compassion, God relents for a season, but judgment is still coming, because human mediators can't change hearts and fix the brokenness. We need a better mediator and a better prophet who not only pleads on our behalf, but also gives His life to purchase our freedom.
Joel McCarty • Amos pronounces two more woes on the nation of Israel, specifically toward those who hold positions of power and privilege. From these woes, we learn that for the covenant people of God, apathy toward injustice is not okay. We must turn to Jesus, who laid aside His own power and position to redeem the oppressors and free the oppressed. He is our only hope.
Joel McCarty • By God's grace, through the prophet Amos, He reveals the fruit of injustice among His people. But what is the root of injustice? What is behind the working of iniquity in the land? And is there a cure? Is there a way that the people of God can see justice roll like a river, and righteousness like a mighty stream?
Jarrian Wilson • "Seek good, and not evil, that you may live; and so the Lord, the God of hosts, will be with you, as you have said. Hate evil, and love good, and establish justice in the gate; it may be that the Lord, the God of hosts, will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph."
*sermon by guest preacher
Joel McCarty • As the people of Israel continued to oppress others and reject God, Amos continued to warn and challenge them. Judgment was coming and they needed to be prepared to meet their God. But is there any who can stand before God in all His glory? How could they be prepared to meet Yahweh? Is there any hope?
Kevin Perry • Being God's covenant people comes with great privileges, but also great responsibility. And when God's people rebel against God's rule, judgment awaits. But in the person and work and Jesus, we find One who did not flee for rescue under the just judgment of God. Instead He bore our sin and became our place of rescue. Jesus is our only hope.
Joel McCarty • Amos has words of judgment for God's covenant people, as they have ignored God's law and injustice is running rampant in the streets. In our day, it is no different, and there is no one who can stand against the coming judgment. But there is a true faithful Israel, Jesus Himself, who took our place and exchanges our injustice for His righteousness.
Joel McCarty • Amos begins his prophecies of judgment by focusing on the nations surrounding Israel. Through the words of Yahweh, it is made clear that God's sovereign rule extends beyond His covenant people to the entire earth. However, throughout this book, there are whispers of hope for all peoples. It is true - the justice of God extends to all. But so does His mercy. And that’s good news.
Joel McCarty • The prophet Amos speaks on behalf of God to His covenant people, warning them of impending judgment. The nation of Israel has forsaken God's covenant and ignored their responsibility to enact justice. But through the prophet, there is also a message of future hope. There is a true Prophet who will one day come and make all things new.
Kevin Perry • "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit."
Joel McCarty • At New Eden, we believe that the church is God's primary means of restoration in the world. But why does the church matter? And is she actually still relevant?
Joel McCarty • At New Eden, we believe every human has inherent dignity and worth because they are created in the image of God. This truth informs us as we live in the world, for the good of the world, reflecting the glory of King Jesus in tangible, everyday actions.
Joel McCarty • At New Eden, one of our core truths is that Jesus is King and the advancement of His Kingdom cannot be stopped. But what do we mean when we say that? And how does that impact us as we seek to accomplish the mission of God?
Joel McCarty • What is the vision of the church? And what is her mission? God has given us the answer in the story of the Scriptures. At New Eden, we desire for our vision and mission to align with God's vision for the church in the world.