Sermons: Recent Episodes
GraceLife Church: Deltona, FL
Life is hard east of Eden. A distant God. Painful childbearing. A cursed ground. A cunning enemy. In a word, CONFLICT—everywhere. With God. With the creation. With Satan. With one another. We see this in one of the most infamous murders in history. Cain and Abel. God front loads the Bible with this conflict to serve us notice. Sin has a strategy for you, but He offers a redemptive, peacemaking alternative—if we’ll trust Him. Join us for our 5th Sunday service, Raising Cain. Come hungry! Chili Cook Off to follow!
We’ve all encountered THAT guy. He has a sharable list of the do’s and don’ts of Christianity—and he’s crushing it. He knows what to eat, what to drink, what days to observe. He has all the answers. He’s a strong Christian…or…IS he? In Romans 14, Paul shares a word on weak and strong Christians. How do we recognize, welcome, and live in harmony with weak believers? Need some help in that area? Join us at GraceLife this week as we dive into Romans 14. Welcome the Weak.
When the New Testament describes the first gatherings of the early church, the scene is explosive. Those new Christians met frequently and turned the world upside down. But how? It had nothing to do with programming, administration, or even logistical planning. Their strategy was simple: they wanted to be together—a group of joyful, authentic Christians who devoted themselves to Jesus and one another. Their cultural impact was un-ignorable. Ours can be too. Join us at GraceLife this week as we study Life Together from Acts 2.
We hear about Christian “Breakthroughs” all the time: a book that will change your life, or a conference that will restore your marriage. But so often, those “experiences” and resources fall flat. They over-promise and under-deliver. The personal change we sought still seems beyond our reach. What’s missing? Why do we stay stuck in unhealthy patterns of living? The story of Jacob from the Old Testament holds out some answers. It’s a powerful paradigm for how God often engages us—and changes us. At the center of that story is a tremendous personal struggle, with breakthrough on the other side. Often God must hurt us to help us. Wrestling with God, Sunday at 10am. DHS Auditorium.
The apostle Paul had a strong desire to present the believers in all his church-plants as mature in Christ. The elders at GraceLife have that same goal for our church. But what is maturity in Christ? What does it look like and how do we get there? Join us on Sunday as we chart a map to maturity and sketch a portrait of what a mature disciple looks like.
One of the most effective helps in our fight against temptation is to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ.” Those instructions in Romans 13 sound strange to our ears because we put on clothes, not a person. But that’s precisely the point Paul makes with the clothing metaphor. Clothing covers you. Clothing protects you. Clothing distinguishes you. Clothing equips you. What you wear matters. Do you need to change clothes? Put on Christ…He looks great on you! He covers, protects, distinguishes, and equips you to live the transformed life. How does that work? That’s our topic this week at GraceLife. Join us for Get Dressed!
Pay your debts! While that reminder stings, we can appreciate it’s force—especially when someone owes us! But when Paul told the Christians in Rome to pay what they owe, he wasn’t just talking about money (mortgages, school loans, and rent). He had something much deeper in mind, and more valuable. Paul was talking about love. Love is the debt we owe to every image bearer we encounter. Are we paying it? We’ll continue in chapter 13 of Romans this week. The Love Debt.
I recently read an article about decision-making. The author encouraged his readers to make "legacy decisions" instead of "ego decisions." It's important for us to make choices today that will impact our legacy in the future, as opposed to making short-sighted and selfish decisions. But how can we ensure our legacy will be a good one? What if we've already made too many "ego decisions?" When it comes to legacy, there's only one Person's memory that matters: God's. Join us on Sunday to see how God's generous memory affects your legacy.
The Bible makes it clear: ALL human authority comes from God. Good and bad. Benevolent and Oppressive. Righteous and Evil. “There is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” Thats Romans 13:1. The Bible is equally clear in that passage that we are to submit to those governing authorities. That raises an important question: what happens when the government oversteps it’s boundaries or violates our freedoms? Then what? That’s the question we’ll be tackling this week at GraceLife: When to Resist Your Government. I hope you can join us as we complete this section in Romans.
Face it. You and I were born into a world filled with authority. And God calls us to submit to those authorities, whether in the home, the workplace, the church, or the government. But here’s the rub: because of sin, all human authority is flawed. Greed. Oppression. Abuse. Neglect. No human authority is untouched by the effects of sin. So how do we submit to flawed authorities—particularly, as the Apostle Paul picks up in Romans 13—the government? God calls us to do hard things, but never in the dark. In his letter to the church at Rome, Paul gives us 5 reasons to Submit to our government. We’ll continue our series this week, Submitting to Your Government, Part 2.
Submit. The very mention of that word makes people cringe. It’s a verb. It’s a command. It has teeth. Children, submit to your parents. Employees, submit to your bosses. Wives, submit to your husbands. Church members, submit to your elders. And citizens, submit to your government. Those directives come from God and Christians have struggled for centuries both to make sense of them and honor them. Join us at GraceLife for our continuing series in Romans 13, Submitting to Your Government. Service begins at 10am.
How do you deal with your appetite? You have options. You can ignore it. You can suppress it by drinking green tea (I’m not kidding. Look it up). You can practice breathing techniques to help you deal with the hunger pains. You can even distract yourself with a hobby—preferably one that doesn’t burn calories. You could gorge yourself on junk. Some of those approaches may “work” short-term. But in the end, you’re still hungry—and maybe sick too. There’s a spiritual parallel. Some argue that’s why God gave us stomachs and food to begin with, to awaken us to a deeper longing—and point us to the only satisfying source. Wouldn’t it be insane to deprive yourself of food when all along God offers you the feast of a lifetime? Come and see!
In his book, Surprised by Joy, C.S. Lewis writes, “From my earliest years I was aware of the vivid contrast between my mother’s cheerful and tranquil affection and the ups and downs of my father’s emotional life.” He went on to say, “My father, whom I implicitly believed, represented adult life as one of incessant drudgery under continual threat of financial ruin.” Lewis got his emotional cues from his parents. And so did we in ways we may not have even been aware of. What are we projecting to others about the Christian life—whether it’s our children, neighbors, friends, or colleagues? What place should joy hold in the Christian life? The answer may…surprise you.
Take a look around. Observe your family, friends, neighbors, celebrities, online personalities. Who does life work best for? When you really zoom out and see the bigger picture, who is "winning" at life? Take into account all the ingredients of a good life - love, peace, security, success, integrity, relationships, etc. In Psalm 1, we see who life works best for. Join us this Sunday to learn the most foundational and essential factor for experiencing this better life: God Himself.
We need healing—all of us. Not always just from sickness, pain, addiction, and heartache, but sometimes we need to be healed from the things that made us sick and addicted to begin with. Emptiness. Guilt. Loneliness. Greed. Betrayal. Idolatry. Truth be known, it’s impossible to pack into a paragraph all the miseries the human heart endures—miseries from which we all need deliverance. A miracle in John’s Gospel displays both Jesus’ power and willingness to do just that—heal us. He is able. He is willing. He is ready. But only if we want to be made well. That’s his condition. Join us this week at GraceLife, for Healing.
C.S. Lewis wrote, “Everyone thinks forgiveness is a lovely idea until he has something to forgive.” Need some help loving the difficult people in your life? Do you struggle to forgive, serve, and love your enemies? If we’re honest about our failures, the apostle Paul offers us a master class. That’s one of the many reasons why God gave us the second half of the book of Romans: to help us relationally. Join us this week as we finish this section, “The Good Neighbor, Part 2" and close out this remarkable chapter.
When looking for a new home, almost everyone focuses on what’s on the inside and outside of the house itself. Granite countertops and a finished Basement? Local amenities and a solid school district? New roof? Green grass? But what potential buyers often miss is the most important: who are the neighbors? If you could pick your neighbors, what kind of people would you choose? What characteristics would prove vital? And here’s a more important question: would you make your own list? What kind of neighbor are you? Join us this week at GraceLife as we consider “The Good Neighbor.”
I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy!” We say that when we experience intense affliction. And we mean it. It sounds gracious and magnanimous. And it is—all things considered. That is, all things with the exception of Christianity. What should we wish on our worst enemy? According to Romans 12, we should call down a blessing on them. Sound challenging? Sound counterintuitive? Sound like losing? Join us this week at GraceLife as we dig further into Romans 12 and consider, Love Thy Enemy.
We are living in a time when a growing number of people including Christians are experiencing discontent. We are frustrated with the political climate, our economic reality, close relationships, and so much more. It is hard to hope for a better tomorrow if our today is so clouded with dissatisfaction and unrest. I have been so intrigued by the God-centered view of the Apostle Paul. Paul was willing to endure incredible hardships as long as it meant more grace leading to more gratitude leading to more glory for God. Come join us at GraceLife this Sunday to explore how we can learn (like Paul did) the secret and the virtue of contentment. 10am @ the Deltona High School Auditorium.
Hans Zimmer reached global fame through his film scores. He is able to describe characters in a film simply and powerfully, through music. Close your eyes and you’ll know whether a hero or a villain has entered the scene. Hans lets his music talk to the audience and tell them something about the main character of the story. Did you know the church talks too, not verbally, but relationally. We’re telling the world—and each other—something about the main character of the story, simply by the way we treat each other. What are we saying? Join us for the last message on Authentic Love this week at GraceLife!
We’re grown accustomed to living in a world filled with fakes. If it sounds too good to be true, or looks too good to be real, it probably is. Search for the fine print. Wait for the other shoe to drop. Experience has made us cynical. Nothing is real. Nobody is genuine. We live in a culture of cons. But the Apostle Paul speaks a powerful word to Christians who want to make a difference in an airbrushed world. “Let love be genuine.” We’re back in Romans 12 this week at GraceLife to talk about “Authentic Love.” You’re invited!
Mike Tyson famously said, “Everyone has a plan, until they get punched in the face.” Iron Mike is not known for brilliant quotes, but he nailed that one. We’ve all gotten the proverbial punch in the face at some point. Our lives upended, plans ruined, futures uncertain. Fear, anxiety, regret, and even bitterness begin to emerge. So then what? Then you cling to the one unchanging reality in the universe—and you stand. What reality can make us immovable like that? The Resurrection. It’s not just for the end of your life. It’s for the toughest places in the middle: the trials, afflictions, disappointments and disasters. Are you living your life as if the resurrection of Jesus actually happened? GraceLife invites you to our Easter service where we’ll drill deep into what can make us Immovable. He has risen indeed! Sunday at 10am.
How does your life change when you begin to follow Jesus? Here’s another way to ask that: what does a gospel-shaped life look like in the West? The apostle Paul says something about the Christian life in Romans 12 that is so counter-cultural it’s jarring to our American minds. “Commit yourself to one another. Use your gifts to strengthen your community.” In a consumeristic culture we bristle at those words. But it’s a beautiful life—a better life. Are you living it? Are you using your gifts to their fullest potential We’re back in Romans this week for Think Like a Body, Part 2. Join us!
Jesus came preaching the "gospel of the kingdom." He was announcing the beginning of a new era, a new covenant, a new community. But Jesus did more than talk about the new kingdom - He inaugurated it. And He invites us into it. But what does that mean? What does it look like to be kingdom people? Join us this Sunday to see how the kingdom story gives us our kingdom identity and fuels our kingdom purpose.
“Blessed Assurance Jesus Is Mine” and “It is Well With My Soul” are just a couple of hymns regarding the assurance we as Christians should have. But if we are honest, we don’t always feel that sweet assurance. I think some Christians struggle with assurance more than they want to admit. The book of Hebrews tells us how what Christ did was indeed enough to provide us assurance and provide us peace here on Earth. It is through clinging to Christ that we can truly draw near with boldness to the throne of Grace. Join us on Sunday as we battle our doubt and wavering assurance together and cling fast to our beloved Christ.
Know thyself. That advice dates all the way back to Socrates. And the quest continues. People are still searching for the truth about who they are. The promise to help people understand themselves sells books, generates likes, and garners subscriptions. Have we figured it out yet? Perhaps nothing is more important and yet misguided at the same time. Romans 12 gives us the key. Gather with us this Sunday at GraceLife as we continue our series in Romans 12. Know Thyself.
Is God angry? Does he love us? Not only do we still encounter those questions in various forms—we still doubt the answers when we experience personal adversity, witness global catastrophe, or come face-to-face with evil. Where can we get definitive answers? Only one place: the Cross of Jesus Christ, where love and justice meet. Gather with us this week as we explore the Cross.
This fallen world assaults our heart with overwhelming force. It hands us a broken belief system and tempts us to incorporate it into every area of our life. In Romans 12, Paul calls us to recognize and resist that pattern—the spirit of this age. But that’s only half the work. And it’s not even the most important part. Paul follows the charge to resist, “Do not be conformed to this world” with an invitation to be transformed—from the inside out. How in the world do we do that? Good question! Join us at GraceLife this week as we tackle the rest of verse 2. Inside Out!
Conspiracy Theories abound in our day. Flat Earth. Elite Reptiles who rule the world. Fake moon landings. Immortal Celebrities. The rabbit hole is bottomless. But in Romans chapter 12, Paul exposes the most sinister, dangerous, far-reaching conspiracy to date. But it’s not a theory to consider. It’s a force to resist. This fallen world, influenced by Satan, seeks to press us into its mold and make us into its image. Do you feel it? Are you resisting it? What’s at stake and where do we start? Don’t miss GraceLife this week as we continue in Romans chapter 12. Join the Resistance!
“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” So Juliet dismisses the significance of Romeo’s name in Shakespeare’s famous play. And while we might sympathize with the lovesick feelings that would give rise to such a question, we can’t follow her in throwing out the importance of names altogether. Because when God brought His Son into the world, He commanded Joseph to give the boy a particular name. And He did so because through that name He wanted to highlight important truths about this holy child. So what’s in Jesus’ name? What does it mean, and how is it relevant to us today? Join us this week as we study the naming of Jesus in Matthew 1:18–25.
One word we tend to use a lot during Advent is “King.” We sing it in our Christmas songs: Joy to the world, the Lord is come Let earth receive her King Hark the herald angels sing Glory to the newborn King Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel Born is the King of Israel Christmas, in essence, is the arrival of a king. That’s what the word “advent” means. The true king has arrived—to put things right and exercise his dominion. How will we respond? Psalm 2 offers a striking glimpse of “The Servant Who Came to Rule.” Join us for our first Advent sermon this Sunday at GraceLife.
And at once his fame spread everywhere throughout all the surrounding region of Galilee. 29 And immediately he left the synagogue and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30 Now Simon’s mother-in-law lay ill with a fever, and immediately they told him about her. 31 And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her, and she began to serve them. 32 That evening at sundown they brought to him all who were sick or oppressed by demons. 33 And the whole city was gathered together at the door. 34 And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons. And he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. —Mark 1:28–34
Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. The Beatitudes 2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. 7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. 8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. 9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. 10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
Are you numb? Feel dead inside and indifferent to what’s happening around you? Struggle to feel…anything? A growing demographic identifies with those symptoms. So you’re not alone. But you’re also not hopeless. What your numb heart needs most is what God gives us as we behold the penetrating wonders and glorious realities of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. Paul helps us grow into deep worshipers who are alive to wonder. Join us this week as we finish Romans chapter 11, Struck by Wonder, Part 2.
“Numb to the sensation of wonder.” That’s how one writer described those who’ve grown disenchanted with life. They feel dead inside, indifferent to anything profound. Could that describe you? Have you lost your sense of wonder, maybe through disappointment, neglect, tragedy, or cheap counterfeits? Has your perspective grown dull and your existence become one of mere survival instead of engagement? The Apostle Paul shows us the way back in Romans 11 with a captivating view of God. Come be Struck by Wonder with us this week at GraceLife.
David and Goliath - it's an iconic story with bigger-than-life characters (literally!). There's drama, tension, and surprise packed in every line. But is it anything more than a great story? What if this passage is more than a motivational message to all the underdogs? Join us this Sunday to see how the story of David and Goliath points to the truly iconic Champion.
Hope is something all people need especially in times of suffering. People put their Hope in someone or something whether or not they admit it. The reality of this life is that things get hard whether we want them to or not and hope is what can help us push through and keep going. The question is “What is your hope actually in?” Is it in the things of this world or is it in the one person that true living Hope is actually found. Join us Sunday as we talk about the true living Hope we as believers have and how that helps us in the hard seasons of life.
It’s easy to grow cynical and jaded with life. Following trending news and consuming superficial content feels comforting—just like eating junk food. That’s where so many people live, work, and play. It’s how their outlooks are being formed. Nobody is denying this, but onward we advance like insects to a bug zapper. How do we resist these forces that are shaping us? We need a more compelling narrative; a more captivating truth to take us out of the shallows. The Apostle Paul introduces us to some stunning realities in Romans 11. He shows us God’s redemptive work in the world in a way that fills us with hope, wonder, gratitude, and humility. There’s a word for that: worship. Will you leave the shallows and explore the depths with us at GraceLife this week?
What will happen to the nation of Israel in the future? We’ve been tackling that question from Romans 11. That’s where the apostle Paul gives one of the most tremendous prophecies in the Bible about God’s future plan for Israel. He calls it a mystery now revealed and tells us what God has been up to and what He is going to do in the future. It’s thrilling. It’s encouraging. It’s surprising. It will turn us away from pride, ignorance, and cynicism, and lead us into worship. Join us this week at GraceLife as we continue with, God’s Plan for Israel, Part 2.
What will happen to the nation of Israel in the future? Will they continue in unbelief, rejecting Jesus until His return? Bible students have debated that question for ages. In Romans 11, the apostle Paul gives one of the most tremendous prophecies in the Bible about God’s future plan for Israel. He calls it a mystery now revealed and in no uncertain terms tells us exactly what God is going to do. It’s thrilling. It’s encouraging. It’s surprising. Join us this week at GraceLife as we consider, God’s Plan for Israel.
Suffering comfortably - is that even possible? Human logic tells us that certain things don't mix: pain and pleasure; joy and sorrow; oppression and refreshment. But Paul teaches that in the Christian life, suffering and comfort go hand-in-hand. We have already been rescued by God's grace and given the Holy Spirit, but we still live in a world where we are surrounded by sin and trouble. The presence and goodness of God can reach down to our deepest points of pain as we wait in the in-between.
“I’m just grateful to be here!” That’s a humble response we often hear from newly discovered talent. Fresh in their memory is the poverty and perhaps obscurity they came from. They feel like they don’t belong in the spotlight. They are just grateful to be there. That’s precisely the posture commended for Gentiles in Romans chapter 11. We were impoverished. We were obscure. We were outsiders in every sense of the word. But God…by His sheer grace, has brought us near through Jesus. Now we are insiders. What a rich privilege we share. But are we grateful? Paul has a lot to say about that. Join us this week at GraceLife as we seek together to grow into Grateful Insiders.
Is God finished with Israel? Lots of Christians have asked that question. Paul—an Israelite—gives an encouraging answer, and shows us why we should care and what role we play as Gentiles. Don’t miss part 2 of Israel’s Return at GraceLife this week. Romans 11.
Have you ever been hurt by a Christian who thought he was helping? Maybe his words hurt you deeply because he showed no compassion. Or perhaps he was more eager to talk than to listen and lacked understanding. Well meaning Christians sometimes do great damage in the name of Jesus. Why is that? One reason is misdiagnosis. That’s not just a medical problem that plagues hospitals. It’s a spiritual problem that infects churches too. Let’s get some help with Careful Counsel at GraceLife this week!
You and I have been conditioned to believe we’re missing out on something BIG…that our life is boring, unimportant, and incomplete. Businesses make money on that lie—especially travel agencies. That’s good marketing. This nagging ache can also hit us after reading a good book or watching an epic movie with a compelling plot, heroic characters, and a satisfying ending. Even a nostalgic look through old pictures can resurrect that hunger for excitement and longing for inclusion. That’s one of the many reasons why chapter 9 of Paul’s letter to Rome is so helpful. He gives us THE BIG PICTURE of God’s sweeping redemptive story in the world—and where we fit in. So…tired of feeling like you’re “missing out”? Come to GraceLife this week as we celebrate “The Big Picture” together.
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!”
Every second Sunday of the month, we hear a testimony from one of our members. It could be a testimony of how they came to faith, or any other instance where they saw the goodness of God in their life.
We live in an increasingly suspicious age. We don’t trust BIG Tech, BIG Pharma, or BIG Gov. They wield too much power, exert too much influence, and access too much personal data. So goes the thinking. So when the Bible comes along and says God is BIG. He possesses all power. He holds all control. He exercises sovereignty over every sphere of our lives. We get sus. But here’s the beauty of the Bible: God knew we would have that reaction. We’re not the first culture to object to His sovereignty. He understands our reaction and gives us some help. I hope you will join us Sunday as we continue our Romans 9 series, “God’s Sovereign Plan: Talking Back to God.” Can’t join us in person? Check out the livestream. GraceLifeFlorida.com. 10am.
When Peter asked Jesus how many times he was expected to forgive his brother, Jesus gave an unexpected answer. Not 7 times, but 70 times 7. Our Lord is telling us that when we try to put limits on our forgiveness of others, we’re misunderstanding the kingdom of God. Then Jesus shares a story about a forgiven servant. A forgiven servant who misunderstood the kingdom. Come join us to see how the story ends and to learn how we are forgiven to forgive.
Last week we began looking at the qualifications for who can serve as shepherds in God’s church. This week we’ll finish that outline and spend some time talking about why you should care about that—a lot! I hope you can join us this week at GraceLife for Shepherds, Part 2.
One of the ways we see God bless the early church in the New Testament is through a qualified, united, healthy leadership team. God was specific on who He wanted to lead His church. He gave us multiple examples (both good and bad) and He also gave us several clear passages that lay out who should lead, how they should lead, and why they should lead. Join us this Sunday at GraceLife for some important—and exciting—leadership updates.
In the film Shawshank Redemption, a prisoner named Red (played by Morgan Freeman) says to his friend Andy, “Let me tell you something, my friend: Hope is a dangerous thing. It will drive a man insane in a place like this. It’s got no place here. Better get used to that idea.” He’s right. Hope is a dangerous thing, and it can definitely drive you insane. I agree—but with one caveat. Hope is only dangerous if you place it in the wrong object. Let’s make sure we’re aiming our hopes in the right direction and attaching them to the right person. Join us at GraceLife this Sunday for our Easter service, “Hope is Here!” Children are welcome to join their family in the auditorium or they can join us in the back for Children’s Church--available for second grade and under.
There’s no doubt that Romans 9 is one of the most provocative chapters in the Bible. It’s sparked more debates, divided more churches, and strained more friendships perhaps than any other part of the Bible. But it’s also humbled more hearts and challenged deeper thinking. So we dare not dismiss this chapter! Consistent with his practice in this letter to Roman Christians, Paul invites the reader to respond to what he has been saying: “What shall we say then?” 9:14. How should we think about God’s sovereign activity throughout redemptive history? What should be our response to “So then he has mercy on whomever he wills, and he hardens whomever he wills”? 9:18. Join us this week at GraceLife as we finish with part 3 of “Let God Be God”
We all have something we run to when things get hard or scary or even uncertain. We run to our safe space and hide there until it’s all clear. Or we run there to try and get answers and comfort. But what do we do when those things or those people aren’t there? Christians have a sure and steady anchor in troubling times. We have a refuge and strength and a VERY PRESENT help. God is constant and unchanging and we can always count on him being there regardless of what is going on around us. Join us Sunday as we talk about God being the refuge for his people.
What in the world is God doing? Romans chapter 9 gives us a tour of God’s sovereign activity throughout history. Raising up some rulers. Putting down others. Saving this person. Leaving that one in his sins. It seems so random and haphazard to us—and often unfair. The apostle Paul addresses that accusation and invites us once again to, “Let God Be God!” Worship with us at GraceLife this weekend for part 2 of that message at the Deltona High School Auditorium on Sunday @ 10am.
What in the world is God doing? Romans chapter 9 gives us a tour of God’s sovereign activity throughout history. Raising up some rulers. Putting down others. Saving this person. Leaving that one in his sins. It seems so random and haphazard to us—and often unfair. The apostle Paul addresses that accusation and invites us once again to, “Let God Be God!” Worship with us at GraceLife this weekend at the Deltona High School Auditorium on Sunday @ 10am.
Why do some people see such beauty in Jesus while others find him revolting? Some find his words riveting, his life compelling, his promises life-giving, and his authority comforting. To them, Jesus is altogether lovely and the gospel is glorious. But others are offended at the very mention of His name. What makes the difference? Paul’s answer to that question takes us back to the Old Testament story of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God says, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” What in the world does that mean? Join us at GraceLife this week as we continue our study of Romans 9, “Can God Be Trusted? Part 2.”
God doesn’t always act according to our expectations. Consider a time you felt disappointed by God. Mark it down—beneath your letdown was either a misunderstanding of God’s promise, or a distortion. If God fails to keep just one promise, his character is compromised and our trust is forfeited. For that reason, Paul tackles a HUGE question in Romans 9 about God’s promise and Jewish unbelief. Did God’s promise to Israel fail? Paul’s answer to that question gives us tremendous insight into God’s sovereignty in salvation and his purpose in election. Join us this Sunday as we explore, “Can God Be Trusted?”
How do you feel about the unbelievers in your life—those who don’t believe your gospel, don’t value your convictions, and don’t appreciate your opinions? Do you get annoyed and grow disgusted—or does your heart break over their unbelief? When the Apostle Paul launched into a defense of Israel’s rejection of their Messiah in Romans 9, he gives us some powerful insight into the heart of a Christian toward those outside the faith. We’re back in Romans this week at GraceLife. Join us on Sunday for “A Heart for Outsiders.”
How do you feel about the unbelievers in your life—those who don’t believe your gospel, don’t value your convictions, and don’t appreciate your opinions? Do you get annoyed and grow disgusted—or does your heart break over their unbelief? When the Apostle Paul launched into a defense of Israel’s rejection of their Messiah in Romans 9, he gives us some powerful insight into the heart of a Christian toward those outside the faith. We’re back in Romans this week at GraceLife. Join us on Sunday for “A Heart for Outsiders.”
Every second Sunday of the month, we hear a testimony from one of our members. It could be a testimony of how they came to faith, or any other instance where they saw the goodness of God in their life.
One of the most encouraging and fortifying truths of Christianity is that God is sovereign. He has the power and right to do as he pleases. A right understanding of that doctrine has strengthened Christians for centuries and fueled some of the most risk-taking, global mission ventures in history. A wrong understanding of that doctrine has led to apathy, arrogance, and even abuse. We have to get it right! Paul gives us some “Rules of Engagement” in Romans 9. Join us this Sunday for more of “God’s Sovereign Plan.”
God is a Reconciler. He is on a mission to cleanse and heal the world. To forgive and restore people who have sinned against Him. But He doesn't take on this task alone. He has invited us to join in. If you are a believer in Jesus, then God has given you this job. It sounds intimidating. Impossible even. So how do we do it? Join us on Sunday to see how the Lord gives us compelled hearts, conscious minds, and capable mouths to share His good news.
What will people say about you when you’re gone? Will your eulogy be an inspiration to others—or a warning? We’re all building a legacy, whether we realize it or not. What will your legacy be? When Paul wrote “Whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction,” he was talking about the Old Testament. Loads of instruction is waiting there for us to learn from. Join us at GraceLife this Sunday as we bring in the New Year Sunday with some time in the OT! “Building a Legacy.”
Darkness. That’s a heavy word. It’s often associated with being cold, alone, and afraid. To be in the dark is to be separated, vulnerable, and in danger. Without light, we stumble around blindly. We’re directionless, and unless the darkness lifts, we’re in trouble. Humans need light to thrive. That’s why darkness is a spiritual metaphor in the Bible for separation from God. When speaking about his mission, Jesus announced “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Christmas is about our rescue from the darkness. Join us this Christmas at GraceLife for a special service @ 10am. “The Light of the Whole World.”
Christmas is not so merry for some. It marks the end of a weary and joyless year. A year of agonizing waiting: chronic sickness to improve, a lonely and broken heart to heal, a relationship to mend, that destructive habit to disappear, or just better news. That’s why Christmas should resonate with us. It’s God’s answer to our deepest, most agonizing wait. It’s the arrival of our deepest longing. What are you waiting on? Gather with us at GraceLife this week for “Waiting on Christmas.”
Every second Sunday, we hear a testimony from a member of GraceLife. It could be a testimony of how they came to faith, or any other instance in their life where they saw firsthand the goodness of God.
Hiding in plain sight. Ever heard that phrase? It’s true of the Christmas message. Seen in cards, heard in songs, even glimpsed in a holiday movie here or there—but often completely missed by those who need it most. It’s easy to decry the commercialization of Christmas, or complain about the rush of the holiday. But we often miss the message too. At Christmas, God reminds us that His ways are not our ways and invites us to look carefully at how He often works in our lives. Join us this week at GraceLife for “The Missing Message of Christmas.”
Christmas was not a surprise. One of the opportunities the birth of Jesus offer us is fresh appreciate of the detailed prophecies concerning the arrival of our Savior. How do we know Jesus is the ONE? It’s not a lucky guess, a stab in the dark, or some fortune-cookie-like prediction that anyone could fulfill. No, Christmas was God’s rescue plan breaking through time and space. We call it Christmas but it was nothing less than fulfilled prophecy. Join us for our Advent series this week at GraceLife. Christmas, Prophecy, and Hope.
Are we gonna make it—to the very end? Sadly, some Christians answer “maybe,” “I hope so,” or even “I’m not sure” to that question. What would you say to them? Is that a healthy outlook on the Christian life: living with low-grade anxiety, doubt, and fear? Is it true? The Bible offers a more confident, joyful, and courageous path. In Christ, we’re inseparable and invincible. Can you believe it? Come hear all about it at GraceLife this week and argue yourself into assurance.
Invincible. It means too powerful to be defeated; incapable of being overcome. Unconquerable. It’s the description God gives to those who take refuge in his son, Jesus. But if we’re honest, that moniker doesn’t always stick. Lots of times we feel defeated, afraid, overpowered, and outnumbered. God understands. That’s why He gives us multiple arguments from various authors with robust arguments. One of the most powerful comes at the end of Romans chapter 8, where Paul says something so over-the-top encouraging, people have tattooed it on their bodies, stenciled it on their walls, and had it engraved on their tombstones. Wanna hear it? Join us this Sunday at GraceLife for our final message in Romans 8. Invincible. #BestNewsEver!
We live in a world when society tells us to “follow our hearts” or “just go with what you feel”. Although our feelings have purpose oftentimes our feelings or our desires can contradict what we know to be true in Gods word. Join us Sunday as we talk about how we can plant our feet firmly on what we know versus what we feel.
Suffering often seems random, with no discernible cause and no clear meaning. We’re left wondering: why me? Why this? Am I being singled out? When secular thinkers talk about suffering, they use words like fate, luck, and even karma. Are those legitimate ways to understand hardship? Why do we suffer? God’s answer is mind-blowing, awe-inspiring, counter-cultural, and also one of the most formidable promises in the Bible. Join us at GraceLife this week for “God’s Greatest Promise.”
How do we know the God of the Bible is real? Why should we believe in Him or trust Him? After all, there are plenty of other worldviews we could choose from. But one thing those other belief systems have in common is this: they can never provide the ultimate answer we need. This passage in 1 Kings 18 shows us that God has a voice. God pays attention. And God answers. His answer in this story about Elijah and the prophets of Baal points us forward to His Ultimate Answer - Jesus Christ.
Kill your sin. Sound like a tall order? It is. Impossible, in fact, if you use your own weak, puny, inadequate human resources. But God has given us the greatest help and power possible: His own Spirit dwelling within us. This week at GraceLife, we continue digging into one of the most gloriously good-news passages in the Bible. Don’t miss “Killing Sin by the Spirit,” Sunday at 10am, @ DHS.
This week at GraceLife we’ll continue to explore one of the most violent, messy, controversial, and critical tasks of following Jesus: killing your sins. So join again as we continue in Romans 8 with, Three Ways to Kill Your Sin. Part Two!
Christians are known as peacemakers. We turn the other cheek. We forgive quickly. We strive to maintain unity and avoid conflict if possible. But did you know that faithfully following Jesus means we must get downright violent? Christians are killers! We execute our sins! In fact, we’re given a choice in the Bible: kill or be killed. Join us this week at GraceLife as we explore Three Ways to Kill Your Sin. We’re back in Romans again!
Fill in the blank: Jesus is the _______. How would you answer? The Messiah? Son of God? Savior? These are all true of Him, but Jesus used a peculiar title to refer to Himself more than any other. And it’s one we might not be very familiar with. He uses the phrase “Son of Man” over 80 times in the Gospels. Join us Sunday to see the incredible truths behind this favorite title of Jesus.
When it comes to the gospel it seems that many Christians like myself need a constant reminder of who did the saving work. We as Christians always try to add something to our salvation as if God needs any help in doing the saving. Join us Sunday as we talk about how it is only through the work of Christ and Christ alone that we are saved.
Our spiritual life can sometimes feel weak, diminished, substandard. We need help. In this section of Romans 8, Paul drops some mind-blowing truths that shape the way we see ourselves and think about our life as Christians. Your New Reality, this week at GraceLife. 10am. DHS Auditorium. 100 Wolf Pack Run. Deltona, FL.
What are the most powerful words you could hear when seeking to resist the forces of a fallen world, a crafty accuser, and your own deceitful flesh? Put another way: how can we stay faithful to Jesus when we see opposition around us and even feel opposition within us? Romans chapter 8 answers that question with an exclamation point. Join us this Father’s Day at GraceLife for, You Are Free!
The second we wake up, we face an endless wave of condemnation. We feel it around us. We see it among us. We hear it inside us. And we sense it above us, too. Living under the weight of condemnation—real or even felt—can turn us into fugitives. We go into hiding. We put on a mask. We begin to wither. All sorts of human problems can be traced to condemnation. In one of the greatest chapters in the Bible, Paul gives us a declaration straight from God that changes everything. Join us this week as we dive in together. Buckle your seatbelts for “Not Guilty!” Sunday at 10am.
I recently read a story about the worst roommate ever: a Craigslist nightmare. This man manipulated his way into someone’s home by giving a false identity, then refused to leave. He didn’t pay rent. He didn’t clean up after himself. And worst of all, he eventually took over and forced the owner to leave. That kinda sounds like what the Apostle Paul wrote about in Romans Chapter 7. We have an indwelling presence that is manipulative and sinister, seeks to enslave us, and refuses to leave. And worst of all, many Christians aren’t fully aware of it and therefore don’t know how to respond. That’s why Paul wrote Romans 7. It’s an expose on indwelling sin. What do we do about it? Join us again at GraceLife this Sunday at 10 O’clock for “Worst Roommate Ever.”
A common story for new Christians goes something like this: at a desperate time in their life, they met Jesus! He delivered them from their sin. They enjoyed newly found freedom, new friendships, and a more abundant life. The future looks bright. And then.…those old sinful habits come knocking with a vengeance. In a moment of weakness, they experience failure, then guilt, then despair. They they get stuck, grow discouraged, and live in confusion. What is going on! It is precisely at that point that the Apostle Paul’s teaching in Romans chapter 7 helps us. If you feel stuck, don’t understand the internal conflict, and want help, join us this week at GraceLife as we dig deep into Romans 7, “The War Within.” 10am, DHS Auditorium in Deltona.
If anyone knows what the Church could look like at its best, it's the apostle Paul. He spent his life planting churches, watering them with care, and watching God bring growth. So when he heard about a new church plant in Colossae, he sent a letter to encourage and teach them. The letter opens with a powerful prayer - a picture of what the dream church could look like. A place where our theology is grace and our ethic is gratitude. Join us at GraceLife this Sunday to see that the dream might be closer to reality than we think.
What do you do when trouble comes knocking? How do you cope? Some people face trouble defiantly, with a stiff upper lip and a clinched fist. Others scramble to tell themselves something hopeful like “You’ve GOT this!” or “Just push through!” And some just collapse and resign, letting trouble crush them. God has a better way. Psalm 46 is a song for God’s people to sing when facing disaster—whether personal, national, or even global. Join us this Sunday at GraceLife for some Psalm 46 Soul Care, especially if you’re a mom!
Why do Christians celebrate a strange feast called Communion? What does it mean? Where does it come from? What does it have to do with our faith? Like many traditions, the Lord’s Supper can get emptied of its meaning and get buried under duty. Every first Sunday of the month at GraceLife, we celebrate Communion. This week, we’ll take some time to remember why. Rediscover with us the deep, powerful, liberating truth behind this ordinance: “Our Story in Exodus.”
If you’re reading this, I’m gonna make the wild assumption that you already believe in the resurrection of Jesus—at some level. Here’s what I mean. You believe it happened. You’ve attended Easter services before and didn’t really need the evidence talk. You believe! But maybe you need some help figuring out what the resurrection means for you—right now, in 2022. Why does it matter? What difference does it make? So what? If that’s you, PLEASE join us this Easter Sunday at GraceLife for Resurrection Reality Check. 100 Wolf Pack Run. Deltona, FL. Or watch our livestream service. More info here: GraceLifeFlorida.com
Every day we’re bombarded with incentives to do things we’d rather not. We’re made to feel like we’re missing out on the good life, holding out on our loved ones, or walking out on some golden opportunities. Get solar panels! Buy gold! Upgrade your internet service! Usually fear, guilt, and shame drive ad campaigns. And they work! But here’s a question: What motivates you to live the Christian life? Why do you tell the truth when a lie would advance your career? Why avoid clicking on that provocative link when you’re the only one in the room? Why bother going to church, giving, serving, and meeting needs? What motivates you to obey God? In Romans 7, Paul shares an explosive truth that many Christians miss. It’s not small. It’s not inconsequential. It’s not optional. We’re moving through Romans 7 again this week with “Incentive.” I hope you can join us! 10 am at the DHS Auditorium. Look for the GraceLife signs!
A significant question I’ve heard over the years—and asked—is how we relate to God’s moral law now that we follow Jesus? Are we under law or under grace? That question has produced some of the most controversial writings in history, and has even split Christians into different groups and pitted them against one another. The Apostle Paul addressed this question in Romans 7, a chapter not without controversy itself. This week, we continue our journey through Romans and crack open that chapter. I hope you can join us for message number one, “Til Death Do Us Part.” No matter where you land in your understanding of God’s law, Paul will confront us with some tremendous truths to help us along.
I stumbled across this quote years ago that still stops me in my tracks: “All men seek happiness. This is without exception…This is the motive of every action of every man, even of those who hang themselves.” The author, Blaise Pascal was saying something profound. We’re all on a quest for joy, but so often, our paths lead to misery—and stay there. In Psalm 16, David addresses both the “multiplied sorrows” of our misdirected hunts, and the eternal joys awaiting those who follow God’s path. Join us at GraceLife this week on a “Quest for Joy.”
Bob Dylan was right. You gotta serve somebody. But watch out! There are some cruel task masters out there who will chew you up and spit you out. You’ll do hard time and pay a high price for picking a cruel master. The Apostle Paul knew that. That’s why he wrote the book of Romans—especially chapter 6. We’re finishing up that section this week at GraceLife. Join us on Sunday at 10am for “Gotta Serve Somebody.” DHS Auditorium. 100 Wolf Pack Run.
Guess what you need—right now? Power. You need power to say no to seductive temptations that will weaken and cripple you. You need power to endure suffering. You need power to follow Jesus into hard places. You need power to love and serve difficult people. You need power to face failure and find hope. The good news is, because of what happened over 2,000 years ago, that power is available to you—but it’s often misunderstood. Paul sets the record straight in Romans 6. Join us at GraceLife this week as we talk about, The Ripple Effect. Sunday at 10am. Deltona High School Auditorium. 100 Wolf Pack Run.
Our society today is obsessed with justice. Social justice, racial justice, economic justice, etc. Everyone wants to live in a just society. But who decides what is just? How should we as Christians define justice and do justice in this world? Join us on Sunday to hear what the Bible has to say about this profound and elusive concept.
This Sunday, GraceLife will celebrate 7 years of gospel ministry. God has been good to us and we've seen growth and experienced His grace in a multitude of ways. We believe God has much more work for us in Central Florida. We're just getting started! Join us this week as we celebrate baptisms, new members, our 7th birthday, and a Prayer Focus for 2022! Don't forget there will be free lunch after the service! Invite a friend!
One of the most perplexing questions surrounding Christianity is this: What purpose does the Law of God serve? Why did God give us ten commandments when so many fail to keep them? And where does grace come into the picture? Are law and grace friends, or enemies? How do they relate? Paul provides clarity on those issues and deepens our appreciation for what Jesus accomplished. We’re back in our Journey Through Romans this week at GraceLife. Join us at 10am at the Deltona High School, for Law and Grace.
When God calls a shepherd to care for his flock, what’s his job description? How do elders and pastors provide leadership, cast vision, and care for God’s sheep? No doubt, we’ve all seen and unfortunately many have experienced poor leadership in the church. That’s why God gives us clear instructions for how to shepherd His sheep. Join us this week at GraceLife as we celebrate new leadership and see God’s vision for shepherding.
Christmas is troubling for many people—for many reasons. And they’re in good company. The Christmas story, as told by Matthew, came with conflict. It was messy. It was violent. It was bloody. It came with a cost. For that reason, some people shy away from Matthew’s version. Some historians even dismiss it as legend. It’s that brutal! We’ll look at it together this week at GraceLife and discover some parallels to our own trouble with the arrival of Jesus. Join us Sunday for Christmas and Tears.
There’s an inside story to Christmas. It explains why Jesus had to come in the first place. He’s not the first king God sent us—but He is the last. What’s the backstory? We’ll pick it up in Romans 5, just in time for Christmas. Jesus came to rule us, but first He had to represent us. Our first king failed us. But thankfully that wasn’t the end of the story. Join us this week at GraceLife for, A Tale of Two Kings. Come ready to adore him with some sweet Christmas music and rich gospel truth. 10am at the DHS Auditorium. 100 Wolf Pack Run.
Disciples of Jesus are supposed to bear fruit; we are called to obey, to serve, and to love. But what if being a disciple isn't so much about what we do, but about what (or Who) we attach ourselves to? Do you feel love, joy, and peace and spread them to others? Or is your more common experience a persistent low-grade anxiety? Do you experience peace, faithfulness, and gentleness? Or are you filled with exhaustion and on the verge of burnout? If unwanted and unhealthy symptoms are bubbling out of you, maybe it's NOT time to do better and try harder. Maybe it's NOT time to white knuckle it. Maybe it IS time to check your source. Come join us this Sunday to see what Jesus has to say about discipleship in John 15.
No matter where you travel in the world, you’ll find three things: sickness, pain, and death. To say it another way, find me a place without a cemetery and I’ll be the first to move there. But don’t waste your time. No such place exist. Why is that? And what does it have to do with Christmas? Join us at GraceLife this week for “The Last King,” and find out! We’ll continue our series in Romans, but with a Christmas twist. We hope to see you there!
To bask in something is to revel in it; to make the most of it; to put yourself in a position of maximum exposure and absorption. We soak up what we bask in. Right now, our culture seems full of exhaustion, outrage, and anxiety. And church leaders report unprecedented levels of emotional exhaustion and spiritual depletion. What are we basking in? In Romans 5, Paul teaches us how to achieve maximum exposure to God’s love so we can bask in it, absorb it, be changed by it, and share it with others. Join us at GraceLife this week as we continue Basking in God’s Love.
“I love you.” How many times have we mindlessly said that to a friend, a parent, a child, or a spouse? It can become mechanical, like putting on our seatbelt. We do it (or say it) out of habit, not from a new experience of affection. God’s love for us is not mindless or mechanical. Of course he tells us that he loves us—in multiple places. But God also gives us something powerful. He demonstrates His love to us and lets us experience it supernaturally. That’s Paul’s point in Romans 5. Are you convinced of God’s love for you? Want some moving assurance of that love? Bask in God’s love with us this Sunday at GraceLife, as we continue our series Engage: A Journey Through Romans.
We hear lots of stories today about people who supposedly de-convert from the faith. They give up on Christianity and kick their church to the curb. Surveys offer insight into what triggered their departure. Some claim they encountered new material that contradicted their religious beliefs. Others say they met a new friend who challenged their worldview. But often, the real reason people abandon their faith is because they face a new experience without the resources to cope. That new experience is suffering. Can Christianity help us understand and face suffering? Join us on Sunday as we explore Romans 5. Don’t Waste Your Suffering. If you know someone in the midst of suffering, encourage them to watch our livestream www.GraceLifeFlorida.com or join us in person. We gather @ 10am each Sunday at 100 Wolf Pack Run. Deltona High School Auditorium.
Everyone suffers. But not everyone finds hope to sustain them through their adversity. How can some people face tremendously challenging lives with peaceful resolve—and even joyful confidence—while others wilt? Here’s a hint. What you believe about your relationship to God matters during times of suffering. In fact, it matters the most when we suffer. Join us at GraceLife this week as we jump into Romans 5 to explore Suffering and Hope.
Why do Christians believe the Bible is true? Plenty of people claim it’s corrupt, full of contradictions, and cannot—should not—be trusted. Other religions have their own sacred religious texts that clearly differ with the Bible on major points of doctrine and practice. Muslims believe the Quran is true. Buddhists have the Tripitaka. Hindus cling to the Vedas. They can’t all be right, can they? What distinguishes the Christian Scriptures from other religious texts? What evidence proves their reliability? Join us this week at GraceLife for a two-part series called, Why you can trust the Bible.
We live in a world of transactions. You work…you get paid. Or, on the flip side, you pay up or you don’t get in. Nothing is free. You want access? It’s going to cost you. That interesting article you clicked on, there’s a paywall, right? That incredibly helpful app? $4.99. Extra armor on that game? Set up your Apple Pay. Nothing is free. The “wages earned” mindset has shaped our understanding of the world. That’s why the idea of getting something we didn’t earn credited to our account makes us suspicious. We smell a scam. We don’t believe it. That’s why the Gospel really is ridiculously good news. Join us on Sunday at GraceLife and hear all about it as we dig into chapter 4 of Romans.
Some people spend their entire lives wondering what God is like, but never find the answer. Jesus came to answer that question once and for all. But even still, people debate what Jesus was like. Does he understand? Is he angry? Can we approach him? For those reasons, Jesus gave us a clear and powerful description of Himself—from his own lips! He tells us what he is like and why that matters for sinners and sufferers. Will you join us this week at GraceLife as we consider “The Heart of Jesus”? Bring a friend along because for every family who gathers with us this week, we have a free gift—given by a generous donor in partnership with Crossway Publishers. Don’t miss out!
People suffer from plenty of excess. We’re overdrawn on our bank accounts, overextended in our responsibilities, and overwhelmed with life in general. But when’s the last time you heard someone complain of being “over encouraged”? :cricket: :cricket: :cricket: Exactly. Fear and pessimism have taken hold of our hearts. The glass is half empty for pretty much everyone these days. Many Christians do not know how to give or receive encouragement. Let’s change that! Join us at GraceLife this week as we discuss, “The Encouragement Crisis.”
Everyone needs renewal. It’s why we take vacations. It’s why we’re given breaks at work. It’s the reason we long for weekends. Our bodies and minds need rest. We need to be refreshed. The same is true spiritually. But it takes more than a coffee break or trip to the beach to usher in spiritual renewal
What would happen if God gave you whatever you wanted, no matter how sinful and destructive your desire
Years ago, C.S. Lewis wrote, ‘If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world.’ That ‘other world’ Lewis hints at is heaven. It’s a place we long for and dream about
We all are running a race in life whether we admit it or not. We can all agree that the year 2020 was very exhausting. Some of us may be extremely tired and spent from all of obstacles we have been facing this year. Some of us may be anxious wondering if 2021 will be the same. Some of us are anxious wondering if we even have the ENDURANCE to get through another year like that. It’s in those times where we need to turn to the Lord The author and Perfecter of our faith for the strength to continue running the race to our end goal.
Waiting. It’s one of the most agonizing and inescapable human experiences. Everybody waits. We wait to grow up. We wait for true love. A career. A promotion. A vaccine. A stimulus check. A return to normal. But the most painful wait of all
Your adversary is on the prowl. He’s powerful. He’s organized. He’s evil. How do you resist a cunning enemy who knows your weaknesses? Join us this week for the second half of “Don’t Fall for It: The Resistance.”
2020 feels beyond exhausting for most of us. Our nation seems more divided than ever. Political upheaval dominates the news and social media platforms. Conspiracy theories abound. Civil unrest and racial tension plague cities. Literal and figurative fires burn out of control. The global pandemic has upended everyone’s way of life. The times are unstable and volatile. If we’re not careful, our focus will stay on the fires, fights, and division out there and we’ll miss the traps that have been set in here, closer to home, in our hearts. Satan is diabolical. He’s happy to distract you with global disturbances while he chips away at the foundations of your devotion to Christ. “Don’t Fall for It” is a message to encourage and stir your heart to stay in the fight for good.
What sets a church apart? Designer Coffee? Killer music? A posh building. High-capacity leaders? A mind-blowing social media platform? Those may cause a church to stand out, and possibly put a church on the map. But big companies have those. Have you seen pictures of the employee lounge at Google headquarters? Exactly. What sets a church apart from every other organization in the world is her message and what it produces: relational beauty. In other words, the culture of a church should set it apart from everything else in the world. It should be the closest thing to heaven on earth. But so often, it’s a place of pain, hurt busyness, and confusion. How can we know if our church is healthy? Join us this week at GraceLife for the final message in our culture check series: Is My Church Culture Healthy?