Darby Creek Church Sermons: Recent Episodes
Darby Creek Church
When the leaders of God’s people failed to shepherd them, God promised that He would shepherd His people the way they should be. Jesus also tells us in John 10 that He is our Good Shepherd. We can rely on His care, and we can count on Him to provide for our needs.
King Josiah was a welcome “light” leading the people of God to return to God in a very dark time. Jesus is a greater King and greater light of the world. He once and for all made a way for us to be made right with God. We thank God for Jesus, a light shining in the darkness and we celebrate His first coming at Christmas.
In Colossians 3:15-17 the Apostle Paul lays out several reasons we should be thankful when it comes to what Jesus has done for us individually and collectively as a church.
Psalm 136 is known as The Great Hallel Psalm. Each one of its 26 verses repeats the sentence, "His love endures forever". Join us for this first of two messages in our miniseries titled “Thank God”.
In this passage we learn that the church should demonstrate its value for the ministry of the Word and the glory of God by honoring, protecting, rebuking, and carefully appointing elders.
This week delve into chapter 5 of 1 Timothy. Paul gives Timothy instructions on how to care for and honor those in the family of God. As we examine this passage, we will learn principles that apply to our church context today.This week delve into chapter 5 of 1 Timothy. Paul gives Timothy instructions on how to care for and honor those in the family of God. As we examine this passage, we will learn principles that apply to our church context today.
In our passage today (1 Timothy 4:11-16) Paul gives pastors and church leaders a framework for ministry effectiveness. This is the second part of a two-part message.
In our passage today (1 Timothy 4:11-16) Paul gives pastors and church leaders a framework for ministry effectiveness.In our passage today (1 Timothy 4:11-16) Paul gives pastors and church leaders a framework for ministry effectiveness.
This week we examine Paul’s instructions on what young pastor Timothy is to focus on regarding his ministry. From this we can see what pastors today need to be careful to do so they can be faithful ministers of Christ Jesus.This week we examine Paul’s instructions on what young pastor Timothy is to focus on regarding his ministry. From this we can see what pastors today need to be careful to do so they can be faithful ministers of Christ Jesus.
Some teachings sound like they would make us more holy and more godly if we followed them. However, when we have a good handle on the truth of God’s Word, we can discern whether these teachings are really from God or if they have their root in the “father of lies (Satan)”. Join us this week as we study 1 Timothy 4:1-5.Some teachings sound like they would make us more holy and more godly if we followed them. However, when we have a good handle on the truth of God’s Word, we can discern whether these teachings are really from God or if they have their root in the “father of lies (Satan)”. Join us this week as we study 1 Timothy 4:1-5.
In our Bible passage today (1 Timothy 3:14-16), Paul tells us that the church has been given a commission to carry out and a confession of truth to hold to. It is vital that we are faithful to these.
In our next section of Scripture in 1 Timothy 3, Paul instructs the church on the character qualities for deacons. We will also explore how deacons function in the body of Christ.
Many today think people are, for the most part, generally “good.” The Bible disagrees with this idea. Psalm 14:3 clearly states of mankind that “together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one,” and Romans 3:23 states “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” In order to have a relationship with God, we must recognize the sin in our life, confess it, repent, and turn to Christ for our salvation. This week we will study Psalm 51 as the example of what true confession looks like.
Guest speaker, Pastor Terry Lewis, shares with our congregation the importance of having three key kinds of relationships in our lives.
When selecting leaders for the churches, the Apostle Paul laid out the important qualities that ought to characterize these men. As members of a local church, we must be careful to appoint qualified men to the office of Elder / Pastor / Overseer.
This message is the last one on 2 Timothy 2:11-15. We will cover verse 15 and the response to several common objections to this passage.
This message continues going verse by verse in 1 Timothy 2:11-15 to discover God’s good design for men and women in the church. Part 1 of this was recorded on Sunday, August 10 if you want to listen to that first.
This section of 1 Timothy takes us into how God has designed men and women to function within the church, the household of God. Though God’s Word here is not “in step” with our western culture, it is important we see these instructions to the church are timeless and according to God’s good design for us.
In 1 Timothy 1:18-20, Paul tells Timothy how to stay the course and not end up with his faith shipwrecked along the way like some have. There is much for us all to learn from Paul’s instructions here!
As Jesus shares a Passover meal with His disciples, a betrayal is in the works. Join us this Sunday at 10:30am as we study Luke 22:1-23.
We come to a passage in Luke chapter 21 that causes us to dig in and put on our "thinking caps” when the disciples ask Jesus when all the things are going to happen that Jesus prophetically speaks about. Will they happen at the end of time? Did they already happen? Or is it a combination?
In Luke 20:41 – 21:4, once again Jesus has some challenging words for the religious leaders. He asks them a theological question about one of their beliefs about the Messiah for which they don’t know the answer. Jesus also contrasts the prideful, showy nature of the Scribes and contrasts it with the humble, quiet faithfulness of a widow.
Some of the religious leaders mistakenly believed there would be no resurrection of the dead. In our Scripture passage this week (Luke 20:27-40), Jesus set them straight about this and leaves them speechless!
In our Scripture passage this week (Luke 20:1-26), Jesus’ authority is questioned and it creates quite a stir!
As we start our journey through the last section of the gospel of Luke, we find Jesus entering Jerusalem. This triumphal entry as a King is also mixed with Jesus weeping over Jerusalem because His own people will reject Him and have Him crucified.
Chapter 4 of the book of Malachi contains the closing words of the Old Testament. These closing words give us some insight into the Day of the Lord and into the future of the wicked and the righteous.
In our study of Malachi, we come to God’s call to His people to repent and return to Him. The people of God are challenged to watch their words, which God claims are hard against Him. Is our heart aligned with His?
In our study of Malachi we come to God’s call to His people to repent and return to Him. The people of God are challenged by God to obey Him and return to giving their full tithe back to the Lord.
In our passage (Malachi 2:17-3:5) the people of God, while suffering from half-heartedness and lax worship, are accusing God of approving of evil! They cry out to God and demand that justice be done. God’s response is that justice and judgment are coming…not only for the evil doer but for the people of God.
In Malachi’s day, the people of God were not only disrespecting God’s commands regarding worship but they also were disregarding His instructions regarding marriage. In our passage today, God calls His people to respect and keep their marriage vows.
Description: In Malachi’s day, the people and priests of God had grown lax and half-hearted in their worship and walk with God. What is worship that is acceptable to God? What is at the heart of it? Our study this week will point us to the answer.
In the Book of Malachi, God calls His people back to Himself. They were questioning God's love for them because of their circumstances. Their worship had grown cold and they were going through the motions. In the opening verses God reminds His people how He has loved them.
In John chapter ten Jesus describes Himself as the good shepherd. How is Jesus the good shepherd? What does that mean for us here and now? Join us this Sunday @ 10:30am ET as we continue our Unwrapping the Names of Jesus message series!
In the Book of Revelation, Jesus says He is the Alpha and Omega. What does this mean and how does it relate to us? Join us Sunday at 10:30a as we continue unwrapping the names of Jesus and learn more about what it means to walk in relationship with Him each day.
This second Sunday of Advent we are looking at Jesus as the Word of God and what that title means for us now.
This Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent and the first of our new message series "Unwrapping the Names of Jesus". Each Sunday during Advent we will look at Bible passages that point us to one of the names used to describe Jesus our Savior. This week we will examine passages that tells us that Jesus is the light of the world.
God calls believers to live a lifestyle of giving thanks and to have an attitude of gratitude. This message will give us some practical ways to move beyond giving thanks on just one day in November.
Our final metaphor we will explore for the church of God is the church as the family of God. When we are born again, we are adopted into the family of God. What does this mean for us as a local church? What does this mean for us as individuals in this diverse group of believers? We will explore what God’s Word has to say about this and more related to the church as the family of God.
Our scripture passage for this week is Ephesians 2:19-22. Here Paul describes the church as a temple that has a foundation, a cornerstone, and that believers are being joined together to make this temple of God.
In 1 Corinthians, the Apostle Paul describes the church as the body of Christ. He uses this metaphor for a specific purpose in addressing some of the issues that the church was facing. In our study this week on Metaphors for the Church, we will examine Paul's use of this metaphor and how it applies to us today.
Join us for our new message series where we will cover some of the biblical metaphors used for the church. We are starting off with the church as the bride of Christ. What does this mean and how should it impact our view of the church and our own lives as members of the church?
We all stumble at times when we are running the Christian race. How can we get back up after we stumble? This Sunday we will be examining a passage where one of the disciples failed and how Jesus responded.
If you are running in a 5K race, you need to watch out for obstacles in the road along the way so that they won’t hinder you from finishing well. The same is true in the race each Christian runs. There are common obstacles the enemy throws in our path that we must be aware of and guard against. Join us in the second message in our series “Finishing Well”.
Hebrews chapters 11 and 12 have much to say to us regarding living the Christian life. Join us for the first message our new series "Finishing Well".
As Jesus was approaching Jerusalem, He told a story to communicate to His followers that the Kingdom of God would be coming in its fullness at a later time and that He expected them to do Kingdom work until He returns.
Luke chapter nineteen begins with a tax collector’s life changing visit with Jesus. This message aims to unpack what we can take away from this story.
Jesus tells His disciples once again that He must suffer and die. They don’t understand why the Messiah must first suffer. Yet, Jesus continues to preach the Kingdom and heal a man who cries out to Him for mercy.
When Jesus interacted with the Rich Young Ruler in Luke chapter 18, He knew exactly what was holding him back from receiving eternal life. Jesus knows our hearts. He is intimately acquainted with every aspect of our lives. He is aware of the idols we hold onto that are preventing us from entering the Kingdom of God.
This week Jesus tells a story that illustrates what kind of attitude is necessary for entering the Kingdom of God.
Have you wondered when the Kingdom of God will come? The Jews in Jesus’ day thought about this often. Join us this Sunday as we will see how Jesus responds to the question, “When will the Kingdom of God come?”
This week Pastor Terry Lewis from Grace Point Church in Lewis Center, OH will teach through Luke 18:1-8. This passage is known as the parable of the persistent widow.
Our passage of Scripture this week brings us to an incredible healing story with a twist! Why did only one leper return when ten were healed? What’s the significance of this? Join us this Sunday and find out importance of this passage.
This week has been our VBS (Vacation Bible School) week at Darby Creek Church. Our theme this year was "The Great Jungle Journey". This week's Sunday worship service will incorporate some songs from VBS and a message from Nick Higgins that focuses on Bible truths learned at our VBS. There will be something for adults and kids to take away from this message!
In Luke 17:1-10, Jesus teaches His disciples some of the responsibilities of those who want to follow Him.
Jesus continues His series of teachings that relate to wealth and how we ought to view money. This particular parable reminds us that there is a final judgment coming. We also learn that if we truly love God and have a relationship with Him, then we will love our neighbor.
The Apostle Paul gives us direction on how to handle it when we face opposition in ministry. Join us at Darby Creek Church this Sunday as we examine Philippians 1:12-30.
The Pharisees heard Jesus' teaching about using our earthly wealth for the purpose of storing up rewards in heaven. Because they loved money, the Pharisees mocked Jesus. In these five verses (Luke 16:14-18), Jesus responds to their scoffing. There is a message here not only for the Pharisees but also us as well.
How is a disciple of Jesus to think about money and wealth? Jesus tells us in Luke 16:1-13.
Luke chapter 15 is a series of three parables about God's search for lost people and how He loves to find them. Our text today (Luke 15:11-32) is the third of those parables. We will once again see God's seeking heart for the lost and also that this parable is not just about the overtly rebellious younger son but also about the self-righteous older son. They both are lost.
Luke 15 contains a series of 3 parables that are all linked to the idea that God is seeking those who are lost. This message focuses on the first two parables. These parables tell us something about ourselves, something about God, and also something about the Church.
In Luke 14:25-35, Jesus sets forth the demands of discipleship that He has for His followers. This message is a continuation of the previous Sunday's message and focuses on counting the cost and not losing our "saltiness" as disciples of Jesus.
In Luke 14:25-35, Jesus sets forth the demands of discipleship that He has for His followers. As we will see, following Jesus comes with a high commitment and at a great cost.
Who doesn’t like a good meal? We’ll be back in the Gospel of Luke this week, and this time we’ll see how Jesus uses a banquet He attends to point His listeners to the Kingdom. “Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.”
Will only a few people be saved and make it to heaven? This is the question posed to Jesus in our passage in Luke 13 this week (Luke 13:22-35). In responding to the question Jesus explains that the way is narrow and also that the way will soon be shut.
This week we are back in the Gospel of Luke! In Luke 13:10-21 Jesus demonstrates the power of the Kingdom of God and also describes what the Kingdom of God is like.
In Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, he urges the believers to stay persistent in prayer. In our last message in this mini-series on prayer we will learn how we can carry forward the spirit of prayer we have had during this 21 Days of Prayer so we will be a people who pray without ceasing.
Over sixty Psalms in the Bible are really prayers of lament. These types of prayers are God's people calling out to Him in their pain and grief. We don't often hear many sermons that talk about expressing our prayers to God in our deep and painful seasons of life. This message will take us into Psalm 13 to point to how we can pray to God when we experience these times.
Nehemiah was a man of God and because of that he was a man of prayer. This week in our Pray Boldly series we are examining Nehemiah's prayer (Nehemiah 1:5-11). There are some things we can learn from him to become men and women of God who pray boldly.
Darby Creek Church is having a prayer emphasis the month of April. To coincide with this, Pastor Greg is doing a miniseries titled "Pray Boldly". The first message in this series will examine Isaiah's bold prayer "Send Me" in Isaiah 6:1-8. May God help us to boldly come before His throne of grace because of Jesus. May He help us to trust Him as we pray biblically and courageously for His glory!
The first century church was known to be a church that was devoted to prayer. What does that mean? What might that look like now in the life of our church. Join us for our fourth and final message of this “Devoted” series that connects with our church theme for the year.
Join us for a time of worship and Bible teaching. We will be studying why the believers were devoted to the breaking of bread. The apostle Paul also offers us some insight into the importance of this time of remembrance in the life of the church.
The church in Acts chapter 2 was devoted to the fellowship. What does that mean? What does that look like for us now? Join us and learn about one of the pillars of the early church that is still critical for the church today.
This message starts our mini-series related to our Scripture focus for the year (Acts 2:42-47). What is the Apostles’ teaching and what does it mean to be devoted to it? These questions and more will be answered as we seek to become a church walking in the Spirit.
In Luke 13:1-9 Jesus is asked a question regarding some tragedies that had happened in their times. Jesus continues to urge all the people to repent and turn to God now and not wait until it is too late.
We often think of Jesus as one who was a peace maker. However, Jesus tells us He did not come to create peace but division. What does this mean? Join us as we dive into some of Jesus' "hard sayings" in Luke 12:49-59.
If we live our lives focused on the reality of Jesus' return, we might be more careful how we spent our time and how we treat others. In the Scripture passage before us in Luke 12, Jesus urges His disciples to be ready for His return. Those who have been given greater spiritual responsibility (i.e. church leaders) will also have to give account for how the treated those in their care.
As Jesus calls His followers to not get caught up in the world of materialism, He knows that trust in our Heavenly Father's provision is paramount. Being anxious about whether we will have enough can cause us to focus less on living a God-ward life. In this passage, Jesus is assuring His followers that if they have the right priorities, then God will provide for their basic needs.
True life. What is it that gives us a truly satisfying life? According to Jesus, it's not anything in this material world! Join us this Sunday as we listen to Jesus' words to His disciples on this very important topic.
In Luke 12:1-12 Jesus talks to His disciples about how to guard against hypocrisy in their own lives. A big part of Jesus' message to His followers on this topic is to make sure they are fearing God, not man.
In Luke 11:37-54 Jesus takes on some of the religious leaders and exposes the traps they have fallen into and the traps they have unknowingly laid for others that are keeping people from heaven. Be careful though. These warnings are not just for religious leaders. They are warnings all of us need to heed!
Jesus teaches us that to respond to His call to repent and follow Him is critical. As we examine Luke 11:24-36, we will see the dangers of rejecting Jesus are great, but the blessings we receive by accepting and following Him are numerous!
Isaiah the prophet speaks of Jesus Christ when he says, "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone." (Isaiah 9:2). What does it mean that Jesus is the Light of the World? How does this metaphor apply to us? Join us this last Sunday of Advent as we explore this important title of Jesus Christ.
In a world filled with war and violence, it’s difficult to see how Jesus could be the all-powerful God who acts in human history and be the embodiment of peace. But physical safety and political harmony don’t necessarily reflect the kind of peace He’s talking about in John 14:27. There He says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid”. What is this peace of which Jesus speaks? Join us as we explore what it means that Jesus is the Prince of Peace.
The Bible expresses to us that Jesus Christ was indeed God come in the flesh. This second Sunday of Advent we will look together at some passages in Scripture where Jesus shows us that He is Mighty God!
This Sunday, we officially begin the Advent season when we remember and celebrate the first coming of Jesus Christ. Our Advent series is titled "What a Wonderful Name!". The series explores some of the titles associated with Jesus in the book of Isaiah. This Sunday we'll examine the title Wonderful Counselor.
When it comes to Jesus, you are either for Him or against Him. There is no middle ground. Join us as we listen in on an interaction with Jesus and some skeptics in Luke chapter 11.
Prayer is an important part of the life of a disciple of Jesus. In Luke 11, Jesus responds to a request of His followers to teach them how to pray. Join us as we explore Jesus' instructions on prayer.
After reading about the sending out of the 72 on mission and then learning how to be a good Kingdom neighbor, we come upon an interaction between Jesus, Mary and Martha. What is the point of this interaction? Why is it placed here after all this instruction about being on mission? That is the focus of this message on Luke 10:38-42.
This week we look at one of Jesus’ most famous dialogues with a lawyer. In this well-known parable of the Good Samaritan, we learn not so much WHO is our neighbor but HOW to be a good neighbor.
This week we continue our journey through the Gospel of Luke. After Jesus describes what it takes to follow Him, He sends out a large group of His disciples to spread the news that He has come.
This week we resume our journey through the Gospel of Luke. This begins a new segment of Luke where Jesus begins His journey toward Jerusalem. As Jesus heads toward Jerusalem, He encounters rejection and those following Him learn more of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.
Tim Keller once said, “If you look around, you look at your loved ones, you look at your family, you look at your friends. Either you will face death yourself because you will be dying younger than is our want, or you will live a long time and face the death of the other people around you. Christian hope gives you something to deal with that, gives you something remarkable.”This Sunday we will conclude our series on the “Unshakable Hope”. We will see just how our Christian hope helps us face suffering and death.
We will be exploring the life of Gideon the Old Testament prophet. In the book of Judges, we see Gideon initially as a weak and fearful man who did not see himself the way God did. However, God used this weak man to do extraordinary things! Stories like the life of Gideon remind us how great our God is and how He loves to use weak vessels to accomplish His work.
Paul tells us in his letter to the church in Rome, "For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." (Romans 8:13 ESV). Last week we saw how important it is for believers to know and believe that sin is no longer master over them. This week we will examine some practical steps Christians can take to walk in victory and fight indwelling sin until the Lord returns.
Can I really change? Is there hope for me? Most of us have asked these questions at one time or another. The God of all hope CAN help us change and become more like the people He calls us to be. Join us to find the hope for change that Jesus offers and a faith that truly transforms!
How does God view those who wander away from Him? Is there any hope for the prodigal? Join us this Sunday as we start our new series "Unshakable Hope" and explore the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15.
Last week we spent time in God‘s word seeing that He has provided everything we need for living a godly life. This week will see God meets our needs in special ways when we find ourselves in troubling times.
Last week we learned about who the Holy Spirit is by looking at five promises Jesus made about Him. Join us this week as we’ll see how the Holy Spirit fulfilled what was prophesied about Him by coming to dwell within all of God’s people.
Key points Jesus makes about the Holy Spirit when He is teaching His disciples will be discussed.
Our guest speaker, Pastor Jack Stockdale shares with us the importance of understanding our union with Christ. The subtitle of Jack's message is "Why Your Belief in Your Death is Necessary for Your Life".
This week we will explore what the Bible says about the incredible love God has for us! Our Darby Creek Church kids ministry is also going to help us understand the depth of God's love by singing the truth!
As Jesus prepares for His journey to Jerusalem, He demonstrates His authority again and teaches His disciples a critical lesson on humility and leadership.
A short time after Jesus explained to His disciples how hard it will be to follow Him, Jesus invites several of them to come with Him on a trip to the mountain. What happened there on top of that mountain would encourage and strengthen them for the path ahead. We too can draw strength and encouragement from this passage in Luke 9. Join us as we continue our series in the Gospel of Luke that promises to help us be more certain in our faith.
Ever wonder what Jesus said He requires if someone is going to follow Him? He told His disciples just that in Luke 9:18-27. Join us as we hear these important words Jesus spoke.
Do you tend to be more self-reliant or God-reliant? In our passage in Luke this week Jesus is teaching His disciples (and us) that He supplies us with everything needed to live out His calling on our lives.
Jesus sends us out into the world to be His witnesses. He has not sent us out to fend for ourselves but provides us with all the necessary power to do ministry in His name with confidence. Join us this Sunday as we go through the first six verses of Luke chapter 9. In this passage, Jesus sends out the 12 on their first mission trip. We will see them doing ministry in Jesus’ name and with His authority and power.
Our faith and trust in God is tested deeply when we find ourselves in desperate situations. Will we trust God when we don't see the end to our hardship? Will we let fear get the best of us or will we choose to believe God and put our hope in Him? As we study the last section in Luke chapter eight, we encounter two people who begged Jesus to help them. Join us as we learn some key lessons from these two individuals' interactions with Jesus.
Jesus calms the storm and casts out demons in our passage in Luke this week (Luke 8:22-39). Knowing our Savior reigns over the natural and supernatural world, we can have faith knowing He is with us no matter what we are facing in this life.
Jesus calms the storm and casts out demons in our passage in Luke this week (Luke 8:22-39). Knowing our Savior reigns over the natural and supernatural world, we can have faith knowing He is with us no matter what we are facing in this life.
If you have any hearing loss, you know how much this impacts your day-to-day life. In an even more important way, our "spiritual hearing" affects our walk with God! In Luke 8:1-21, Jesus impresses upon the disciples (and us) the importance of how we respond when we hear God's Word and about His will for our lives.
In Luke 7:36-50, Jesus gets invited to a dinner party hosted by one of the religious leaders. A surprising visitor to the party turns this dinner event into a major object lesson on forgiveness.
We will examine Luke 7:18-35. In this passage, John the Baptist sends Jesus a message. Jesus sends a message back and also speaks to the majority of those in His generation regarding their rejection of Himself and John. However, there is a message for us all here both from John and Jesus!
We are diving back into the Gospel of Luke. We will see the authority and compassion of Jesus displayed in His interaction with two individuals (Luke 7:1-17).
A faith in Jesus that does not result in action is worthless. The Bible suggests that true faith is demonstrated by our deeds, by what we do. What good does it do to have faith that is not accompanied by any kind of service, action, or works?
The early church shared a deep sense of fellowship around their belief in the risen Christ. They supported each other’s faith based on their shared love for Jesus and their commitment to living out His teachings. When we are made new by putting our faith in Christ, we become part of the church family and can experience all that God has for us by participating in the life of the church community.
One of the greatest obstacles to us growing in our faith is the inability to fully receive the forgiveness of God. Our past mistakes, shortcomings and failures too often hold us back from all that God has for us. God invites us to live with a future focus. Rather than dwelling on the past, we live with eager anticipation for what lies ahead.
Easter morning revealed an empty tomb because Jesus had risen from the grave. The two women who first made the discovery had a choice to make. Do they trust the good news or do they ignore the evidence in front of them? The resurrection of Jesus was good news that changed the lives of the disciples and by their impact, the world. We have the same choice to make as the woman did. When we choose faith, we are found “in Christ” and our lives are made new.
The "Sermon on the Plain" concludes with Jesus teaching His disciples (and us) that authentic faith has real, observable fruit. Following Jesus is more than words. It is heart change that is shown in our actions. (Luke 6:43-49)
One of the most recognized and most misunderstood commands given in the Bible is "Do Not Judge". What does Jesus mean when He's telling the disciples "Do Not Judge"?
As Jesus continues to instruct His disciples, He changes the theme to human relationships. In Luke 6:27-36, Jesus tells teaches the disciples (and us) how to love those who hate us.
In Luke 6:12-26, we see Jesus selecting the twelve apostles and ministering to a great multitude. He contrasts differing worldviews and speaks of a great reversal as he teaches beatitudes and pronounces woes.
In Luke 6:1-11 Jesus encounters more criticism from the religious leaders. This time the focus is on the Sabbath and keeping the Sabbath. Jesus teaches them and us that He gets to dictate the intention of the purpose of a Sabbath rest.
The religious leaders just could not understand why Jesus would hangout with sinners and call people like a tax collector to follow Him. This week, we'll see more of what it looks like to be a disciple of Jesus. This is the beginning of several passages which show the religious leaders stirring up controversy regarding Jesus and His mission.
In Luke 5:12-26, Jesus tells a man that he's not only healed but that his sins are forgiven. Who has the authority to forgive sins? God.
In the beginning of Luke chapter 5 Jesus shows Simon Peter that following Him will be like fishing. However, instead of catching fish, obedient followers of Jesus are involved in fishing for people.
Do you believe and submit to the authority and power of Jesus in your life? In Luke 4:31-44 we will see Jesus' authority and power on display. Deliverance from demons and the healing of the sick are just a couple of examples that Jesus truly has come to set us free.
In Luke 4:14-30, Jesus returns to His home town and has a “mic drop” moment when teaching in the local synagogue. Jesus reveals to the public why He has come and for whom He has come. Here we get a glimpse of what the gospel actually is.
Luke 4:1-13 Jesus is tempted by Satan several times. What is the purpose of these temptations? What can we learn from Jesus’ victorious encounter with Satan?
If Jesus was sinless, then why did He get baptized? And why the list of Jesus’ earthly relatives in Luke’s gospel going all the way back to Adam? It all has to do with Jesus having God’s stamp of approval as the Messiah. Join us as we explore this important passage.
John the Baptist is the one telling people to “prepare the way of the Lord” in Luke chapter three. That was a historical event, but there is application for us today. How can we be preparing for the Lord Jesus’ second coming now? Join us as we study and apply this passage in our own lives today.
It might be easy to simply gloss over this passage about Jesus when He was twelve years old. However, this passage gives us a glimpse into the humanity and divinity of Jesus. Sometimes what seems insignificant is actually pivotal. That's the case here where we read the first recorded words of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke.
Our message will take us to the next portion of Luke chapter 2 where we encounter Jesus, the light of the world, as He is dedicated in the temple.
Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Will Earth receive her King? Join us this Sunday as we unpack God’s providence in the way the Lord Jesus Christ made His entrance into the world, and in the announcement of His arrival. Surely the King of kings would have had a more majestic and awe-demanding entrance! Indeed it was, just in a way we might not expect…”for the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” Glory to God in the highest!
A lot can change in nine months...just ask Zechariah! He had plenty of time to reflect on what the angel Gabriel had spoken to him about the birth of his son. In this Sunday's message we'll look in on the dedication ceremony that Zechariah and Elizabeth had for the newborn son. It was a happening event! An event full of meaning for them AND us!
Years ago, Mark Lowry wrote a song titled "Mary Did You Know". In the song a number of questions are posed to Mary, the mother of Jesus, regarding her knowledge about Jesus. In the song, Mary is asked if she knew that her baby boy would walk on water, calm the sea, give sight to the blind, and rule the nations. As we study Mary's song of praise to God this week (often called "The Magnificat"), we will learn some of what Mary knew regarding what God was going to do through her son Jesus.
This Christmas season, our church will begin a journey through the Gospel of Luke. Luke is one of four biographies of the life of Jesus recorded in the Bible. Luke begins by writing about two major announcements delivered by the angel Gabriel that ultimately changed the world.
In Matthew chapter thirteen, Jesus tells a story about how the different conditions of the soil can impact seed taking root and actually producing fruit. What does this story mean and how does it apply to us? For this parable, we don't have to wonder the answer to this question since Jesus tells us what it means.
There is usually no argument when it is stated that Jesus was one of the most loving people who ever lived. Sometimes that love was expressed in the form of a warning. Our parable this week is found in Luke 16:19-31 where Jesus tells a story about two men with two different destinies. In this parable, Jesus is issuing a serious warning to us to examine where our future is headed.
The parable of the vineyard workers teaches us a lot about God's grace and our tendency to compare our own lives with others. We often look at our lives with lenses of fairness instead of glasses of grace.
Many times Jesus taught in parables (stories) to communicate spiritual truths. The first message in this series will examine the parable in Matthew 25:14-30. This parable and the parables surrounding it point us to how Jesus wants us to wait for His return.
In Psalm 121 God gives us a glimpse of His providential care for His people. Join us this Sunday as we examine this important and encouraging truth.
Paul’s recorded prayer for the Colossians in chapter 1 spans from verse 9 to verse 14. This week will learn some principles of prayer by unpacking Paul’s prayer for these believers. Once again, we will learn some things about God, the Christian life, as well as how to more effectively pray for one another.
As we continue our "Pray for Me" series this week, we will be looking at some situations when Paul asked for prayer. In doing so we will learn about a key truth about prayer: Prayer is a struggle. Join us to learn exactly what kind of struggle this is and why it is important we engage in this prayer struggle.
In the second letter to the Thessalonians (2:11-12), Paul prays that God would count them worthy of His calling. What does this mean? How can we live in such a way to be counted worthy? Join us as we dive into another one of Paul's prayers to learn how we can more effectively pray for ourselves and one another.
God tells us to pray for one another. Sometimes we know what to pray because we ask the person. But other times we struggle with what to pray. This new message series will walk us through some of the prayers that Paul prayed for fellow believers. Paul's prayers teach us not only some great things to pray for one another, but they also teach a lot about God and the Christian life.
It's not often one of our own people goes on a yearlong mission trip to share Christ's gospel and love. We are taking time this Sunday, Sept 18 to interview Michaela Roys and learn about lessons God taught her. But make no mistake, this is not just an interview, there are applications for your own life.
Our series is coming to a close as we examine the 10th commandment. The issue with coveting is that we struggle with contentment. What really is the key to finding contentment?
The ninth commandment is yet another way we can love one another well. Truthfulness matters to God. Just ask Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5)! Join us this Sunday as we explore this important commandment and learn how it applies to our daily lives.
For any relationship or society to function well, there must be a foundation built on trust. However, since the beginning of time, our world has been plagued by thieves sowing distrust among us. How far does this go? We might feel distant from this command, but as we’ll see this coming Sunday, it has more application for us than we’d like to admit. Join us as we discuss the eighth of God’s Ten Commandments and the gift God has given us in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
We live in a world enslaved by a sexual revolution. The basic building block God instituted for the family and ultimately society – the marriage covenant – has been attacked, distorted, and redefined. It’s no wonder the sin of adultery is used as a picture throughout Scripture to depict Israel forsaking its covenant relationship with God and turning to idolatry. The Church today struggles with similar spiritual adultery, but the Bridegroom will come to restore the Church, His bride, to relationship with Him. Join us as we discuss the seventh of God’s Ten Commandments and the freedom that is available in Christ alone.
Of all the commandments that God gives His people, we might find ourselves thinking “you shall not murder” only applies to a small percentage of humanity. After all, how many murderers are there in our midst? Join us as we show there is no question the sixth of God’s Ten Words is addressed to us…all of us.
It seems as if your culture is bent on destroying the family. Many sitcoms portray fathers as idiots and morons. Elders are often pushed to the side rather than honored. How does God want us to view and treat our parents? Are there limits to honoring and obeying your parents? Is there more to the fifth commandment than just how we treat our parents? Join us as we explore the answers to these questions in the Bible.
The fourth commandment is about keeping the sabbath. What does this mean for us now that Christ has come, and He is Lord of the Sabbath? Join us as we learn how this sabbath principle can be honored this side of the cross of Jesus.
What does it mean to take the name of the Lord in vain? Is this about cussing or is there more to it? Join us to find out!
If the first commandment God gave was regarding WHO we are to exclusively worship, then the second commandment is focused on HOW God wants us to worship Him. Join us to see how this command applies to us today.
The first commandment God gives His people is that they are to have no other God's before Him. What does this mean? How do we know if we are following this commandment or not? Join us as we examine these and other questions that come up when we study this first and important commandment.
Why study the ten commandments? Are they relevant today? Does God intend for us to obey them if New Testament Christians are no longer under the law? Join us as we answer these very important questions!
Join us for our final message on the book of Job. We will witness the restoration of Job as well as see glimpses of Jesus in Job's actions.
Last week, we saw God's wisdom on display as He reviewed His incredible creation with Job. In this message, we will learn how God shows Job that He is just and all powerful. As a result, He has it all under control and He always does what is just and right.
Join us as we hear for the first time what God has to say to Job after He has heard Job's laments and his friend's advice.
In Job 19, Job wrestles with God and hangs on to the fact that he knows his suffering is not due to any discipline from God because of his sin. He knows God is just and he hangs onto his faith. How can we cling to our faith in God in the midst of deep pain and suffering?
Job chapter 3 gives voice to the despair and grief Job feels after the devastating losses he has experienced. Repeatedly Job asks why has all this happened to him. This is a very emotionally raw chapter. You may find yourself in situation now or in the future when you are asking, “Why God?”.
Tom Short (TomThePreacher.com) is our guest speaker at Darby Creek Church this Sunday, May 15, 2022. As an itinerant gospel preacher and Christian apologist on college campuses across the country, Tom is asked a lot of questions about Christianity. In this message, Tom will share his response to the question, "What makes your religion better than someone else's?"
This week’s scripture passage takes us right into the heavenly courts! Satan has a question for God and the nature of Job’s relationship with God will be tested.
In this first message in the book of Job (situated between Esther and Psalms in the Old Testament), we will meet the person after which the book is named. As we travel through this book, we will discover much about the world we live in and how God reigns sovereignly over it. We will have many questions and some answers. That’s real life, isn’t it? Just as we go through life, may we learn to trust God in all the joys and griefs.
Join us Easter Sunday as we look at Jesus’ post-resurrection encounter with His followers (John 20:19-23). He shares with them three important gifts that He has for them…and for us!
When Jesus calls us to follow Him, it is a "whole life" thing. It is not just a "Sunday at church thing". This week will examine some passages that point to the radical nature of discipleship.
Those who realize just how much they have been forgiven by God through Jesus Christ also extend radical forgiveness to others. Join us as we explore an Old and New Testament example of this radical forgiveness we are called to extend to others.
In this message we will look at 2 Corinthians 9:1-15 and a couple of other passages to learn about some biblical principles that should guide our giving back to God.
Money and the topic of giving has always been a really touchy subject. Some give financially to the church with a feeling that they “have to”, others because they feel it might earn them favor, while still others give cheerfully and from the heart. How much should we give? How often should we give? In what manner should we give? God does give us guidance on this important topic. Learn what God’s Word says about this important subject.
A practical approach to keeping our focus on God in the midst of discouraging and disillusioning circumstances.
Did you know that when Jesus was on the earth He prayed for the believers at Darby Creek Church? It’s true! Join us and discover what Jesus wants us to do and what is on His heart for the church.
Church ministry is not about the pastors. It takes the entire membership of each local church engaged in the ongoing mission of Jesus in the world. Ministry is a "team sport". We will see that in Paul's closing comments and instructions of his letter to the church at Colossae (Colossians 4:7-18).
As followers of Jesus, we experience the transforming power of the gospel of Christ which changes the way we ought to live. This week we’ll learn about how we ought to live as God’s people in God’s way with respect to our daily relationships with others.
In our Bible passage this week (Colossians 3:5-17), we learn how Jesus followers’ lives change as they experience the internal transforming power of the gospel of Christ.
As followers of Jesus, Christ is working in us by his Spirit, ensuring that we are being renewed as image-bearers of God. What He has begun in us He has promised to complete (Philippians 1:6). In Chapter 3 of Colossians, we delve into what it means to practically live out our newfound life that Christ has given us.
If we really believe Jesus is Christ our King, how should that effect how we are influenced by others and the world system? Join us as we answer this question and continue our study of Paul’s letter to the church in Colossae.
As followers of Jesus, what does it mean for us to be faithful with the task He has left for His church and hear Him say, “Well Done”?
What does the Bible say about who Jesus REALLY is? Join us we examine one of the clearest passages of the Bible that answers just that question.
Paul's prayer in Colossians 1:9-14 gives us insight into not only how to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to God but also how to lead productive lives for His Kingdom.
In the opening verses of Paul’s letter to the Colossians he lays the foundation for faith and love springing from a fountain of hope that is found in the gospel.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:11 we are commanded to encourage one another and build one another up. What does that mean? How can we practically do that? Join us for this last message of 2021 as we learn how to better live out our life together in Christ.
In Matthew 2:1-12 we have the account a group of wise men who visited Jesus after His birth. Who are these magi?
As we start our journey through Advent together, our first stop is to look at the only four women who are mentioned in Jesus' family tree in Matthew chapter one. It was unusual to mention women in the genealogical records in the time the Bible was written. There must be an important reason for their inclusion in Matthew's list. These four women's stories and their inclusion in Jesus' family line teach us so much about the grace of God.
As we start our journey through Advent together, our first stop is to look at the only four women who are mentioned in Jesus' family tree in Matthew chapter one. It was unusual to mention women in the genealogical records in the time the Bible was written. There must be an important reason for their inclusion in Matthew's list. These four women's stories and their inclusion in Jesus' family line teach us so much about the grace of God.
Having an attitude of gratitude is yet another way we can draw near to God and seek His face. Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth rightly says that at any moment we have the choice to worship God or whine about our situation. This final message in our series "Seek His Face" will help us cultivate a thankful heart and steer us clear of bitterness.
The Lord told David to seek His face (Psalm 27:8). What does that mean? Do you find yourself hungering from more of the Lord in your life? If not, what could be hindering that desire? Join us this Sunday as we look for some answers to these important questions.
In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches “do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth … but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” While we eagerly await the coming of the day of the Lord and anticipate being in the presence of Christ the King in His kingdom, we have a responsibility to remain diligent and faithful in our walk with Him. We must continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to truly have hope for tomorrow which brings peace for today. This is the final message of our series “The Kingdom of God” and will also wrap up our study in 2 Peter.
Often, we do not realize just how much sin has infiltrated God’s creation. With the curse lifted and sin removed, life will be better by far. Our sanctification will give us a proper understanding of created things, recognizing and worshipping the Creator for what He has given us to enjoy. We will worship Him in everything we do because He is making all things new.
In 2 Peter chapter 3, Peter asserts that we ought to be “waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God,” and then later claims that “we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.” Yet how many of us are truly looking forward to this? If not, we may not have a proper view of what Heaven will be like and what God has promised to believers. This week we’ll be starting a short sermon series to address what God’s Word tells us we should anticipate about the coming Kingdom of God and what life will be like on the New Earth.
In the last days many will scoff at the idea of Jesus returning to judge the world. In our passage from 2 Peter this week, Peter tells the false teachers what they are forgetting and why Jesus has not returned yet.
There are some seriously harsh words Peter has for these false teachers he is warning believers about in the book of 2 Peter. This Sunday we will look at how false teachers often espouse a distorted view of the freedom we have in Jesus when we believe. This heretical teaching is not just something from the past. This false teaching is alive today!
Peter tells us what to look for when it comes to false teachers in the church. This Sunday we will look at 2 Peter 2:1-3 to learn the characteristics of false teachers and the fallout for them and those who follow teaching.
What is a good defense to guard against false teaching in the church? Our next passage in 2 Peter takes us down this road as Peter prepares us for the next part of this important letter. It’s as relevant today as it was back then!
Often people ask, "If I've put my faith in Christ as my Savior, why do I need to be concerned about growing in godliness?" As we study 2 Peter 1:8-11, we will discover the reason why this is so important. Join us this Sunday online or in-person at 10:30am as we seek to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus.
God does not intend for us to come to faith in Christ and leave it at that. He calls us to live a life that reflects the fact that He's given us the power to live godly lives. In this passage (2 Peter 1:5-7) we are reminded that the faithful Christian life is not just about trusting in Christ for our forgiveness and right standing with God.
Do you want to know the truth or just want someone to tell you what you want to hear? In this last chapter of 1 Kings, we will see a man who has a history of surrounding himself with people who tell him what he wants to hear and ignores what he knows to be the true Word and will of God. Join us this Sunday as we learn how the Word of God exposes us and how we are to respond.