Mosaic Silver Spring: Recent Episodes
Staff
John 4:1-30
Rev. Joel St. Clair
- World of Exclusion
- Witness of Embrace
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Mark 5:21-43
Rev. Joel St. Clair
- Understanding the Authority
- Standing Under the Authority
Colossians 3:1-17
Rev. Joel St. Clair
- New Day Through Resurrection (v. 1-11)
- New Life Through Jesus Christ (v. 12-17)
The opposition to the building of the wall gets nervous as things come to completion and the people continue to trust in God in the face of death threats.
The people have encountered opposition outside the community. . . now they must deal with opposition and oppression from inside the family of God. Their response points the people and us to the incomparable redemption we have in Jesus Christ.
As opposition to the people of God grows - Nehemiah leads the people to respond with faith and action revealing that God is ultimately at work through his people on the road of redemption.
Nehemiah 3:1-32: the community works together in this chapter to bring repair of the gates and wall. There's a sense of individual contributions as well as collective identity in the work.
Nehemiah 1:1-11; an opening look at Nehemiah's circumstances and his response to a dark picture.
Ephesians 4:1-16
Rev. Joel St. Clair
One common issue within the church was that members were included or excluded from the community based on human standards. Paul reminds the church that they are all united together based on the One God — Father, Son, and Spirit. Though gifts and expressions may differ, the marker of faith and access to God’s community is the same: faith in the saving work of Christ.
The letter to the church in Ephesus and surrounding churches gives them a framework for what God is doing in the world. The unfolding power of God in Jesus Christ flips the structures and authorities that we may be used to - even comfortable with - in ways that call us to live changed lives.
Ephesians 3:1-21
Rev. Joel St. Clair
Paul expands on the mystery of God’s salvation — namely that God’s plan of salvation expanded beyond one nation to include even the Gentiles (non Jewish people). In light of the riches of God’s mystery, Paul calls the church toward prayer life that asks for a deeper understanding and appreciation of God and his love for us.
The letter to the church in Ephesus and surrounding churches gives them a framework for what God is doing in the world. The unfolding power of God in Jesus Christ flips the structures and authorities that we may be used to - even comfortable with - in ways that call us to live changed lives.
Ephesians 2:11-22
Rev. Joel St. Clair
As God builds his church, he builds his temple not with bricks or stone, but with the body of Christians from all backgrounds. Christ tears down the dividing wall of hostility between us and God, as well as the dividing walls between one another. By faith, we can grow deeper with one another as children of God.
The letter to the church in Ephesus and surrounding churches gives them a framework for what God is doing in the world. The unfolding power of God in Jesus Christ flips the structures and authorities that we may be used to - even comfortable with - in ways that call us to live changed lives.
Ephesians 2:1-10
Rev. Dan Sung
Paul continues his letter pivoting from God’s authority over all things to the reality of sin and death. The world was not only slightly off-course, but dead in their sin. Despite this, God freely extends grace. In his death and resurrection, Christ achieved victory and invites us in to be part of his workmanship.
The letter to the church in Ephesus and surrounding churches gives them a framework for what God is doing in the world. The unfolding power of God in Jesus Christ flips the structures and authorities that we may be used to - even comfortable with - in ways that call us to live changed lives.
Ephesians 1:15-23
Rev. Joel St. Clair
Paul models prayer for the church, highlighting the reality of Christ’s power and authority over all things. In light of God’s power over all of creation, Paul prays that we respond in faith, knowing the inheritance we have secured in Christ.
The letter to the church in Ephesus and surrounding churches gives them a framework for what God is doing in the world. The unfolding power of God in Jesus Christ flips the structures and authorities that we may be used to - even comfortable with - in ways that call us to live changed lives.
Ephesians 1:1-14
Rev. Joel St. Clair
Paul opens up the letter to the church in Ephesus by highlighting God’s sovereignty. In the midst of persecution and the various difficulties of life, we have the assurance of God’s plan of salvation and his presence in our daily lives.
The letter to the church in Ephesus and surrounding churches gives them a framework for what God is doing in the world. The unfolding power of God in Jesus Christ flips the structures and authorities that we may be used to - even comfortable with - in ways that call us to live changed lives.
Proverbs 25:28; 29:25
Rev. Joel St. Clair
Throughout the proverbs, the teacher warns about the reality of internal and external forces that lead us astray. Despite these forces, God enters in to provide strength and guidance to follow him faithfully.
Wisdom in the Bible deals with much more than learning facts or remembering information. It is a practice of synthesizing and applying the knowledge of God in our everyday lives. Ultimately, pursuing wisdom is an act of worship, as we gain insight towards righteous living from the True and Living God, who gives us his Spirit of understanding through Jesus.
Proverbs 6:16-19; 10:19-21; 18:20-21
Rev. Dan Sung
Words have impact. The author of Proverbs challenges the readers to watch what one says. This is more than behavior management — the greatest concern of our words is that it reveals our heart. As Christians, we have hope and power to change our words because of the God who can make hearts of stone into hearts of flesh.
Wisdom in the Bible deals with much more than learning facts or remembering information. It is a practice of synthesizing and applying the knowledge of God in our everyday lives. Ultimately, pursuing wisdom is an act of worship, as we gain insight towards righteous living from the True and Living God, who gives us his Spirit of understanding through Jesus.
Proverbs 3:21-32; 11:10-11
Rev. Joel St. Clair
Proverbs speaks often about how we treat our neighbors, and giving up our comforts to care for them well. While we may be quick to qualify, determining who is “deserving,” God gave up his life for those undeserving. By faith, we have the ability and freedom to give of ourselves.
Wisdom in the Bible deals with much more than learning facts or remembering information. It is a practice of synthesizing and applying the knowledge of God in our everyday lives. Ultimately, pursuing wisdom is an act of worship, as we gain insight towards righteous living from the True and Living God, who gives us his Spirit of understanding through Jesus.
Proverbs 1:1-7
Rev. Dan Sung
In the introduction to Proverbs, we see the purpose of wisdom literature -- to teach us and to grow in righteousness, justice, and fairness. As Christians, this pursuit is rooted in what Scripture calls the fear of the Lord: reverence and dependence upon the Lord in all that we do.
Wisdom in the Bible deals with much more than learning facts or remembering information. It is a practice of synthesizing and applying the knowledge of God in our everyday lives. Ultimately, pursuing wisdom is an act of worship, as we gain insight towards righteous living from the True and Living God, who gives us his Spirit of understanding through Jesus.
John 8:12-20
Rev. Joel St. Clair
Jesus offers three similar illustrations to help us understand what it means that he is the Good Shepherd. In this we see that Jesus watches over us, promising abundant life. We can trust that Jesus is trustworthy in the fact that as the Good Shepherd, he laid down his life on the cross to secure our eternal future.
Advent is rooted in the idea that we live between two arrivals – Jesus’s first advent in the incarnation and the second advent when he will return as King to bring about justice and restoration. The two arrivals (advents) mean that the Christian life plays out in the in-between. We may look back and learn from those who waited for the first advent as instructive for us today in waiting for His second advent.
Through this Advent series we will be working through just who we are waiting for - Jesus is the one. The “I am” statements provide Christians with a view of our Savior as we wait for his return.
John 8:12-20
Rev. Dan Sung
Jesus declares himself to be the light of the world. This language echoes images throughout history including the Pillar of Fire that led the Israelites by night. By faith in this light of the world, we not only have the ability to see the truth, but to know God personally.
Advent is rooted in the idea that we live between two arrivals – Jesus’s first advent in the incarnation and the second advent when he will return as King to bring about justice and restoration. The two arrivals (advents) mean that the Christian life plays out in the in-between. We may look back and learn from those who waited for the first advent as instructive for us today in waiting for His second advent.
Through this Advent series we will be working through just who we are waiting for - Jesus is the one. The “I am” statements provide Christians with a view of our Savior as we wait for his return.
John 6:35-48
Rev. Joel St. Clair
After feeding the 5,000, The crowd asks Jesus for more food. Jesus uses this moment to teach them of a deeper, spiritual need that they carry. As Jesus declares that he is the Bread of Life, he shows that faith in Him not only offers forgiveness, but the fullness of eternal life.
Advent is rooted in the idea that we live between two arrivals – Jesus’s first advent in the incarnation and the second advent when he will return as King to bring about justice and restoration. The two arrivals (advents) mean that the Christian life plays out in the in-between. We may look back and learn from those who waited for the first advent as instructive for us today in waiting for His second advent.
Through this Advent series we will be working through just who we are waiting for - Jesus is the one. The “I am” statements provide Christians with a view of our Savior as we wait for his return.
Exodus 20:1-2, 17; Philippians 4:10-20
Rev. Joel St. Clair
The Apostle Paul encourage the Philippine church for giving graciously to him and his ministry. Yet he also uses this as a teaching moment to highlight that circumstances do not dictate contentment. Instead, trusting in the resurrected Jesus gives us strength in all circumstances of life.
We live in God’s world and He has provided a rule for us to know how to live. This rule for living serves as an ongoing guide for all of us to love God and love one another.
Exodus 20:1-2, 16; James 3:1-12
Rev. Joel St. Clair
James highlights the reality that words carry power. This means that, regardless of circumstances, our words have the ability to tear down and destroy if misused. Through the word made flesh, we have forgiveness and power to control our words to speak truth and blessing to those around us.
We live in God’s world and He has provided a rule for us to know how to live. This rule for living serves as an ongoing guide for all of us to love God and love one another.
Exodus 20:1-2, 15; Luke 19:1-10
Rev. Joel St. Clair
Zaccheus was a rich tax collector, and was seen as a traitor and a thief. Despite his reputation, Jesus approaches Bacchus and extends grace. Here we see that grace not only calls us to stop our bad behaviors, but to pursue what is good.
We live in God’s world and He has provided a rule for us to know how to live. This rule for living serves as an ongoing guide for all of us to love God and love one another.
Exodus 20:1-2, 14; 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
Rev. Joel St. Clair
As the Apostle Paul warns against sexual immorality, he addresses common objections raise within the Corinthian church. The good news of Christ’s resurrection helps us turn away from sin, but also find freedom from the crushing weight of the law.
We live in God’s world and He has provided a rule for us to know how to live. This rule for living serves as an ongoing guide for all of us to love God and love one another.
Ex. 20:1-2, 13; Matthew 5:21-26 -- Jesus unpacks the deeper heart issue of the 6th commandment. While it is easy to refrain from murder, the corrosive effects of anger is less visible yet equally destructive. In the midst of our sinful anger, we have hope in Jesus, who secured God’s grace for us as he took on God’s just wrath on our behalf.
Ex. 20:1-2, 12; Mark 7:1-13 -- The religious leaders sought to criticize Jesus through his disciples because they did not follow the traditions of the elders. Jesus calls out their hypocrisy — though they honored their ancestors with their lips, they did not honor God within their hearts. True honor of our parents, and ultimately our heavenly father, can be accomplished by faith in the Son of God who obeyed to the point of death on the cross on our behalf.
Ex. 20:1-2; Hebrews 3:7-4:13 -- Throughout Israel’s history, unbelief had led God’s people away from the true rest in the midst of the unknowns. Yet even in the midst of their doubt, God has continued to be faithful to them, ultimately sending his Son Jesus to secure eternal rest for all who turn to him in faith.
Ex. 20:1-2; Malachi 1:1-14 -- The people of God, under Persian Rule, began to question God’s love and turned away from him and his commandments. Though they performed the “right actions,” their heart was far from God and so they took the Lord’s name in vain. In Jesus, we have the hope of forgiveness and the strength to bear the name of the Lord in faith and faithfulness.
Ex. 20:1-2; 32:1-35 -- While Moses was on Mt. Sinai, the people of God were restless and turned to Aaron to make them a statue out of gold. Moses pleaded on their behalf and God relented from judgment. We have a greater priest in Jesus, who not only pleads on our behalf, but leads us in the midst of our fears and anxieties over the uncertainties of life.
Ex. 20:1-2; 1 Kings 18:17-40 -- Elijah, a prophet of God, confronts the prophets of Baal on mt. Carmel and calls Israel to turn back to the LORD. Although we may not worship statues in the 21st century, God call us to return to him through the work of Christ, the word of God made flesh.
Ex. 20:1-2; Matt. 22:34-40 -- God gives Israel the law to show them what it looks like to be a part of His covenant community. These rules frame up what it means to love God well. As the religious leaders debated about what the most important law is, Jesus sums it up by loving God and loving our neighbor. We obey God through our love for him and for one another.
Mark 2:23-28 -- Jesus reorients the religious leaders to recognize that Sabbath is not about following rules, but for humanity to find rest and nourishment in him. As we live in a culture that overemphasizes work, the Lord of rest calls us to slow down and remember His work accomplished on our behalf.
Philippians 4:1-13 -- Paul concludes his letter to the Philippians with a call to trust the Lord in the midst of various circumstances: in conflict, in persecution, and in the inward anxiety that they may face. Through all of these things, the God of peace is with them and with us today, that we may grow in gratitude regardless of our circumstances.
Acts 2:42-47 -- With the pouring out of the Holy Spirit, the church begins its growth by the thousands as people heard and believed the news of the resurrected Jesus. As people turned to God in faith, they not only worshipped through the word, prayer, and fellowship, but also through their generosity. We can be challenged as a church to grow in maturity through our giving as we trust in the God who graciously gave us all things through his Son.
Matthew 6:19-24 -- Jesus warns against the dangers of loving money, as it affects who we ultimately worship. In this warning we find guidance on how we approach our work, whether it is a career or the way we spend our time on a daily basis. Jesus gives us a picture of true, heavenly treasure to strive for, which is ultimately found in Him.
Romans 12:1-8 -- Paul spends the first eleven chapters of his letter expounding on God’s plan of salvation, ending with praises of wonder and amazement. In light of all of these things, Paul then calls the church to reorient their lives that they may glorify God in the way that they live. As those transformed by the work of Christ, we grow and mature as Christians through our service to one another.
Psalm 118:1-29 -- The steadfast love of God endures forever. That is this psalm’s hook for God’s people to remember throughout the difficulties of life. God is guiding us through the gates of righteousness to bring us to our heavenly home.
Psalm 67:1-7 -- The psalmist here looks forward to a future where all people are gathered to worship God. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the people of God expands from one nation to all who turn to Him in faith.
Psalm 51:1-19 -- In light of previous sin, David approaches God honestly. Instead of shying away or trying to make less of his transgressions, he calls out to God, asking for mercy and forgiveness. Because of the work of Jesus, we too can cry out with hope: God has freely forgiven us by faith as we are united to Christ.
Psalm 30:1-12 -- David here provides a model of trusting in God and praising him in all circumstances. As David sings of God's deliverance, we today can continue these songs knowing the salvation we have in Jesus.
Psalm 23:1-6 -- King David uses the imagery of a shepherd to display God’s love for his people. God’s care involves basic care for our daily needs, protective care in the midst of difficulty or suffering, and eternal care as he leads us toward our heavenly home. We can sing this song of God’s care in all circumstances of life.
Revelation 3:14-22 -- Though the church of Sardis were physically wealthy and lacked nothing, they failed to recognize their spiritual need, and thus were “Luke-warm” and unusable. King Jesus calls them to humility, to recognize their need and find hope in the true riches of heaven.
Revelation 3:7-13 -- Jesus calls the church of Philadelphia to persevere with eternity in mind. Though they were faithful, they began to feel disillusioned because the end has not yet come. Jesus reminds us that He is active and at work for Christians even today.
Revelation 3:1-6 -- Jesus calls the church of Sardis to wake up. Though they had the appearance of faithfulness, they were spiritually dead. It is only in Jesus that those who are dead can come to life.
Revelation 2:18-29-- The church in Thyatira excelled in loving others, yet they began to slip away from the truth. King Jesus calls them to persevere with an eternal perspective in mind.
Revelation 2:12-17 -- The church in Pergamum faced many pressures during their day. King Jesus calls them to remain faithful in following Him.
Revelation 2:8-11 -- Jesus writes to a church who has faced persecution already, and will face more to come. Yet in the midst of this, he calls them to courage — to pursue faithfulness knowing the hope of true life in Christ. Jesus calls his church to hope in the future crown of victory given to us in Christ.
Revelation 2:1-7 -- The church in Ephesus was praised as one who upheld truth to the world around them. Despite this, they strayed away from loving their neighbors. King Jesus challenges them to pursue faithfulness by displaying the same love they receive in Jesus.
Revelation 1:1-20 -- John receives a vision of Jesus, who comes as the victorious Son of Man. Here he is commanded to send messages to seven churches of Asia Minor and encouraging them to pursue faithfulness.
John 20:1-18 -- In Jesus' resurrection, hope is offered to all. It gives us the security of knowing that God makes good on his promises, and it transforms us to live as a new humanity, faithful to God.
John 12:12-36 -- Jesus entered into Jerusalem to accomplish God's plan of redemption. Despite his disciples' expectations, Jesus accomplishes God's plan through shameful sacrifice. This gives us hope, knowing that God is present even when our circumstances betray our expectations.
1 Corinthians 8:1-13 -- In our union in Christ and one another, there is freedom from the rules and regulations of the mosaic law. However, a proper understanding of our freedom means that we are ultimately free to sacrifice our comforts for the sake of others, that all may be built up and grow to be more like Jesus.
Romans 12:9-21 -- In this portion of Paul's letter, he gives us concrete examples of what Christian love looks like. In all of these things, we see a picture of the love of Christ and his commitment to us
Romans 8:1-11 -- Despite the grim reality of sin, Christians have hope in the grace of God that transforms. Through His Spirit, there is a guarantee that Christians will be made new by faith to grow and become more like Jesus.
Galatians 2:15-21 -- Paul writes to refocus the church on God's work of redemption. Christians are justified, or seen good enough, not because of anything they bring to the table, but only on God's free offer of grace found in his Son.
Ephesians 1:3-10 -- Paul opens his letter to the church and praises God. Before the foundation of the world, God has chosen those whom he redeemed, and secured salvation through his Son. We have the assurance that by faith, our future is secure.
Hebrews 11:32-12:2 -- The author of Hebrews reminds us that we are a part of a history of redemption that stretches back to the beginning of time. As we journey through the difficulties of life, we have hope that Christ brings joins us together into this history of faith, and secures our eternal future.
1 Corinthians 12:1-31 -- God has established the church to be a community of faith, not a gathering of individuals. As the source of all gifts and abilities, God calls the church to function as one body, allowing all parts of the body to use their gifts for the benefit of the church.
Romans 5:12-21 -- Paul challenges the church to recognize that we are not neutral agents. Because of our ancestor Adam, all of humanity wrestles with sin. Yet in Jesus, we can find true righteousness before God.
Genesis 1:26-2:3 -- God created the heavens, the earth, and all that is within them. Yet the most important aspect of creation was creating humanity, both male and female. We are created in God’s image, which gives us dignity as well as a purpose: we are called to represent God in all that that we do. We find ultimate hope in the God who became human, who helps us return to our true calling as image bearers.
Ruth 4:1-22 -- Boaz approaches the redeemer closer to Elimelech and asks him to fulfill his duties as a kinsman-redeemer. When the nameless one foregoes his duty, Boaz gladly bears the cost of redeeming Elimelech’s line. God worked through Boaz to provide all that Naomi needed, and gives us a picture of his continuing work of provision and redemption for God’s people with King David. Even more broadly, God fulfills his promise to redeem all of creation through the greater king Jesus, who came from the line of David.
Ruth 3:1-18 -- Ruth approaches Boaz during the middle of the night to ask him to fulfill his role as the kinsman-redeemer. Boaz responds with joy in her request, yet recognizes some complications in their current plan. God’s hand was at work to not only bring honor to Ruth as a worthy woman, but also restore Naomi’s misfortune.
Ruth 2:1-23 -- Ruth goes out to the fields to gather grain for her and Naomi. She encounters Boaz, who after hearing about her reputation, lavishes her with provisions and protection. God’s hand was at work to bring these two together as an act of love and blessing toward Naomi. Both Ruth and Boaz embody a god-like love in their protection and care.
Ruth 1:1-22 -- As we begin the story of Ruth, we are met with tragic loss. Naomi's husband and two children have died, and thus her security and future are all lost. In the midst of her lament, her daughter-in-law, Ruth clings to her. Ruth embodies Christ like commitment in the face of loss, which gives us a picture of hope, even in our darkest moments.
Psalm 19:1-14 -- The Psalmist shows us how all of creation points us to God. However, as people made in God's image, we have a greater source of knowing God: the word of God found in the law. We have hope in the word of God made flesh who makes clear all that we need to know about God and his plan of redemption.
Isaiah 65:17-25 -- Isaiah gives us a picture of the New Heavens and New Earth, a promise to God’s people of a future where perfect peace is actualized. In light of this promise, we are called to live faithfully as kingdom citizens today, as we anticipate the reality that is to come when Jesus returns.
Isaiah 9:1-7 -- God's promise of deliverance is not found in political maneuvering, or technological advancements. Instead, his victory arrives through his Son. We have security today knowing that our ultimate hope is outside of ourselves.
Isaiah 43:1-7 -- Even in the midst of difficulty, God promises his people that he is watching over them. He beckons them to trust and to not be afraid, for the coming Savior will protect them. Jesus, the savior who arrived two thousand years ago, extends this promise to all peoples from all corners of the earth. By faith, we have hope of his presence today, as well as a hope for a future where we will be safe in the presence of God for all of eternity.
Isaiah 45:14-46:13 -- God calls his people to turn away from false idols and to himself. The created statues and images that they worshipped could not save, protect, or provide. Yet the LORD does. While we do not have statues of gold or precious metals, we are called to turn away from the false promises of this world and turn toward the resurrected savior, Jesus Christ.
Isaiah 11:1-11 -- The prophet Isaiah prophesied about someone who comes from the lineage of King David. He will establish an everlasting peace in the world -- one that shows tangible difference across all of creation. As we wrestle with the realities of sin and injustice around the world, we are called to wait upon King Jesus who will return to bring that peace into a reality.
Matthew 10:1-15 -- Jesus Sends out his twelve Apostles to proclaim that the kingdom of God is at hand. In this, we have a picture of faithfulness for us to share about God’s kingdom through word and deed.
Matthew 12:1-14 -- Jesus teaches the disciples about true rest that reorients people toward the path that leads to eternal life. This is in contrast to the religious leaders who sought to focus on specific rules and behaviors.
Matthew 6:124-34 -- Jesus reassures his followers that even in the midst of anxiety, God is present and provides all that they need. By faith, we can respond to that assurance with obedience and seeking his kingdom.
Matthew 6:1-24 -- Jesus redefines faithfulness to mean something beyond superficial behaviors. Instead of doing good to earn love, we can do good because of the love God given to us by grace.
Matthew 5:43-48 -- Jesus gives us a series of Antitheses — you have heard it said… but I say to you. In this, Jesus challenges his disciples to extend love beyond the superficial toward a costly love that reflects his love for us.
Genesis 27:41; 28:10-22 -- Throughout his life, Jacob encounters God in moments of weakness in a place named Bethel. Today, we as the church no longer need to journey to a particular place to encounter God because he now dwells in us by faith.
Matthew 5:1-16 -- Jesus climbs up a mountain side and begins speaking God's truth to the people. He opens up with a proper understanding of blessedness, and calls those who turn to him in faith to live as salt and light.
Matthew 3:1-17 -- John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus to arrive by calling for all of Israel to repent and turn to the Living God. Christians can have hope in that by faith, they can be called children of God, with whom God is well pleased.
1 Corinthians 15:1-11-- Paul writes to the Corinthian church to reorient them to the importance of the death and resurrection to Jesus. It was what all of the apostles consistently taught, even he himself. The central message and the only hope of the church is in Jesus.
Acts 16:6-15 -- The Holy Spirit leads Paul and his companions away from Asia and towards Macedonia. Although it was not a part of their initial plan, they trusted in God’s calling and sought to be faithful wherever God has placed them. This is a challenge for the church to continue to pursue missions locally, wherever they may be.
Luke 10:25-37 -- Jesus gives a parable to the religious leaders to teach them about loving their neighbors. Surprising to the audience, Jesus expands the definition of neighbor to anyone they encounter in their lives. This is a challenge to us to love others in the way that Jesus calls us to.
Mark 2:1-12 -- In Jesus' ministry on earth, he not only preached of the kingdom of God, but brought about physical healing to those who were sick. We see in Mark 2 a model for us to live faithfully by speaking truth AND seeking the material good of others.
Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- God speaks to the prophet Jeremiah, looking forward to a coming day when a new covenant will be made with God's people. This covenant builds upon the previous commitments God has made, and highlights God's faithfulness, even after a long history of disobedience.
Deuteronomy 6:1-15 -- As Israel is preparing to enter into the Promised Land, Moses reminds them of God's command and the need to pass the covenant faith onto the next generation. This is a model for us to think through how we can actively teach the truth of God in anticipation for all peoples and all generations to be called to himself.
Exodus 19:1-9; 20:1-21 -- God reveals to Moses the law, which sketches out how God's people are to live in relation to God, Rest, Family, and Neighbors. As we seek to live as God's people today, we can trust in the perfect record given to us by faith in his Son.
Exodus 3:1-15 -- God reveals himself to Moses through the burning bush. In this, he reminds Moses of his covenant promises, and how he will gather and care for the children of Abraham to himself as a community of faith.
Genesis 15:1-21 -- God, in making a covenant with Abram, gives us a picture of his commitment to us and his steadfast love. Though we may have our doubts or questions, God will continue to be faithful and to show that he makes good on his promises.
1 Corinthians 9:19-27 -- Regarding matters of the conscience, Paul acknowledges the freedom he has in Jesus. Despite this freedom, Paul gives us a picture of self-control with an eternal purpose in mind. We can sacrifice our freedoms with the greater joy and hope of knowing that some would come to faith in Jesus.
Philippians 2:1-11 -- The Apostle Paul reflects on the humility of Jesus as he calls the church to sacrificially give of themselves to care for one another
Hebrews 10:19-39 -- The writer of Hebrews calls Christians to draw near, hold fast, and meet together. These three commandments give a picture of faithfulness, even in the midst of difficulty. Through the Spirit, we have strength to remain faithful.
Psalm 73:1-28 -- The psalmist gives us a picture of patience as long-suffering. In moments when we feel hopeless, or when faithfulness is difficult, we can turn to the suffering servant who can give us patience as we seek to live in faith.
Romans 12:9-21 -- One application of living our lives as a living sacrifice to the Lord (Romans 12:1-2), is how we ought to seek peace between one another. This means seeking harmony with one another in light of the peace we have with God through His Son
James 1:1-18 -- James begins his letter to the church by reminding them of the joy they have in Christ. This goes beyond circumstances, even as the first century church faced persecution. Here as Christians, we can have joy grounded in the hope of eternity, secured by Christ the suffering servant.
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Paul writes to the Corinthian church to remind them of the virtue of love. More than just a feeling, it is a commitment towards seeking the good of others, ultimately portrayed by God in his Son. As a church, we are called to access all of our gifts and resources in Christ through the avenue of his Love.
1 Corinthians 12:4-31 -- The Apostle Paul sought to address the divisions of the Corinthian church by comparing it to a body. Each part of the body has its own unique function, yet all are essential to the whole. In a similar way, all Christians, having their own unique gifts given to them by God, are essential to the body as those redeemed by the head, that is Christ
Ephesians 4:1-16 -- Paul, after describing God's great victory through Jesus Christ, then turns to call the Ephesian church how to live "in a manner worthy of their calling." As they exemplify the fruit of the Spirit individually, corporately they are called to live in unity with one another.
Galatians 5:16-25 -- In light of Jesus' death and resurrection, Christians are empowered with the Spirit to turn from their old patterns of life towards one that walks in faithfulness. The fruit of the Spirit give guideposts for Christians to reflect and assess -- does your life exemplify the qualities of Christ?
Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Paul lifts up praise to God for his providence -- how he is working out his plan of redemption since before the foundation of the world. For Christians, there is not only security in that God is in control of all things, but also that God gave us a downpayment of his blessing through the Spirit.
1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Paul opens up his letter to the Thessalonian church with an encouragement, celebrating how God has worked through his Spirit to change their hearts. The Spirit not only presents truth to God's people, but prompts them to respond in a faith that turns away from idols to serve the living and true God.
John 15:26-16:15 -- Jesus is preparing his disciples for his departure, and gives them the assurance of a helper coming. This helper, God himself, will testify the truth of Jesus, and how salvation is found in Him.
John 3:1-21 -- Jesus speaks to a Pharisee named Nicodemus. While Nicodemus acknowledges that Jesus was sent by God, Jesus challenges Nicodemus to recognize the reality of God's plan of redemption.
Joel 2:28-32 -- The prophet Joel prophesies of a day when the Spirit of God will be poured out to all who call on the name of the Lord. On this day, God comes as judge, who will make the world right once again. This calls for genuine heart change that goes beyond surface level actions.
Matthew 28:1-20 -- When three women approach Jesus' tomb, they found that the tomb was empty. As they shared the good news with the disciples, there were mixed responses until Jesus reveals himself to them. In this encounter, Jesus sends them outward to share the good news of Christ's resurrection.
Matthew 21:1-17 -- Jesus enters into Jerusalem riding on a young colt, fulfilling scripture of the coming messiah. The crowds that followed Jesus anticipated a great political feat, but Jesus pushes against their assumptions as the suffering servant, who cleanses God's dwelling place from all injustice and impurities.
Matthew 13:1-23 -- Throughout his ministry on earth, Jesus often taught through parables. In this parable, Jesus gives us a picture of how the good word of God can reap fruit thirty-fold, sixty-fold, and a hundred-fold. Ultimately, the incarnate word of God himself died on the cross to accomplish this feat.
Matthew 4:1-25 -- Jesus begins his ministry with the trial in the wilderness. As Satan seeks to tempt Jesus, he remains faithful. As Jesus then proclaims the coming kingdom, he does so as a king who understands his people and offers true hope.
2 Kings 7:1-20 -- Elisha gives words of hope to Israel's king, promising victory over Syria as seen through the abundance of food and resources. In disbelief, the captain mocks God and gives words of doubt. Yet God still works and provides for His people, bringing victory over Syria.
2 Kings 6:8-23 -- As Israel wages war against Syria, God tells Elisha all of Syria's plans and strategies. In an attempt to stop Elisha from sharing their plans, the Syrian army tries to capture Elisha, but to no avail. God protects his people through angels and chariots of fire.
2 Kings 5:1-19a -- Namaan, an enemy of God's people, sought healing from the prophet Elisha. Though he approached God with power, authority, and money, Namaan was humbled, and came to know the LORD as the true and living God.
2 Kings 4:1-7 -- Elisha continues the work of speaking Gods truth to the people of Israel. Here he demonstrates God's provision toward a widow in need.
1 Kings 21:1-29 -- King Ahab misuses his power and executes an innocent man for his land. God sends Elijah to pronounce judgment upon Ahab, but he repents. God looks upon Ahab's repentant heart, and gives mercy.
1 Kings 19:1-18 -- Elijah flees from Queen Jezebel and King Ahab after his victory on Mt. Carmel. In the midst of his despair, God encounters him and gives him hope through his word
1 Kings 18:1-46 -- God calls Elijah to confront Ahab and the prophets of Baal through a test. God proved himself to be the true and living God by bringing fire upon the offering.
1 Kings 17:1-24 -- During the reign of King Ahab, the king and queen lead Israel to turn to the false god of Baal to bring rain and nourishment. As a consequence of their sin, God brings a drought. Despite this, God still enters in and provides, offering hope to those in need.
Psalm 74; Titus 3:3-7 -- Paul reminds the church of the goodness and lovingkindness of God, where he saves and transforms those who mocked, slandered, and strayed from God. This is the source of our hope, love, and devotion to God.
Psalm 98:1-9 -- The psalmist calls for songs of praise -- first to God's people Israel, then to all the nations, and finally to all of creation. This call to sing is grounded us in God's redemptive, His present rule, and his future restoration.
Isaiah 11:1-10 -- Scripture shows us that true peace is not just an absence of violence but a full shalom -- all conflict will be done away with. Isaiah gives us an image of that peace that shows us that even predators and prey can live together in harmony.
John 1:1-18 -- The incarnation provided us with a new level of experiencing God. Then came Pentecost. And now we have the presence of God as individuals – this is amazing. And yet it’s not fully there yet.
Revelation 7:9-12 -- As we await the return of King Jesus, we recognize that there are barriers to community, whether it is a result of cultural moments or structural differences. As Christians, we long of the day of worship in Revelation 7 – no more racism, no more partisanship, no more cultural antagonism.
Romans 8:1-17 -- Paul writes about how the Spirit, who dwells in us by faith, changes us to live as God's people. He zeros in on the hope that all Christians have, even today: that by the Spirit, we now have family level access to God, calling out to him as Father.
Acts 28:17-31 -- In Rome, Paul meets with the Jewish leaders to discuss the recent events that led to his imprisonment and trial before Caesar. During this time, Paul continues to faithfully proclaim the truth of Christ's resurrection.
Acts 26:1-32 -- After being arrested in Jerusalem, Paul spent over two years in prison awaiting trial. During this time, he not only defends his innocence, but also proclaims the gospel to those in power, that all may know Jesus Christ as Lord.
Acts 22:22-23:10 -- In light of the chaos in Jerusalem, Paul is questioned by Roman authorities who are seeking to understand the reason for the uproar. When questioned, Paul speaks truth to both the religious leaders and the Roman leaders, despite the possible backlash that may come.
Acts 19:21-41 -- As Paul shares the gospel in Ephesus, people began to repent and believe. In light of this, some of the silversmiths of Ephesus incite a riot because of their lost revenue. The good news may be confusing and anger-inducing to those who do not already believe in it.
Acts 18:18-19:10 -- Paul and other Christians continue their journey through Asia and encounter those who only know of the baptism of John the Baptist. When instructed and encouraged by Paul and the other Christians, the followers of John believe and receive the Holy Spirit
Acts 16:14-36 -- In Philippi, Paul and Barnabas encounter people from all spectrums of life: the privileged, the oppressed, and people in-between. God gathers people from all ends of the spectrum to be a part of his church
Acts 15:1-35 -- The early church needed to discern the place of circumcision in the life of the church. The apostles, when examining scripture, recognized that true entrance into the kingdom of God is by grace alone.
Acts 14:1-20 -- Paul and Barnabas journey to Iconium and Lystra to share the good news of Jesus. While in each place, people miss the message as they misplace their worship.
Acts 10:1-48 -- God continues to expand the scope of his church through Peter's encounter with Cornelius, a Roman commander. Here we see the Holy Spirit at work in anyone who has ears to hear the good news of Jesus
Acts 9:1-22 -- Saul continues to actively persecute the church. On the road to Damascus, God meets Saul and gives him the Holy Spirit.
Acts 8:26-40 -- After Stephen's death, Philip travels down to the desert road in response to God's call. There he meets an Ethiopian Eunuch, who then believes and is baptized.
Acts 7:1-60 -- Stephen, a servant chosen to help care for the community, responds to the charges of blasphemy. In tracing out God's story of redemption, he calls the religious leaders to repent and see how God works ultimately through His Son.
Acts 4:1-22 -- When confronted by religious leaders, Peter and John look to the reality of Jesus' death and resurrection for hope and power to speak boldly.
Acts 2:42-47 -- As the church community begins to grow, they share in life in an intentional and sacrificial way.
Acts 2:14-41 -- The Holy Spirit is poured out on the Apostles, and Peter gives a speech on the fulfillment of God's plan. Peter invites those who are listening to repent and believe, that they too can be empowered by the Spirit to be a part of God's plan for the world.
Acts 1:1-11 -- As the disciples watch Jesus ascend into heaven, they receive words of assurance from two messengers: Jesus will soon return the way he came.
Luke 10:38-42 || Jesus reorients Martha's heart to recognize the most important aspect of following after him: finding security in God's good portion that will never be taken away
King David sings of God's provision in contrast to those who run after other gods. He gives us a model of hoping in God in all circumstances
Daniel receives a vision of a cosmic battle between God and the forces of evil. Although a terrifying vision, there is hope in God's victory, where those asleep will awaken -- where the dead will be resurrected and complete restoration will take place.
Daniel receives a vision of a messenger giving news of cosmic warfare at hand. In the midst of the vision, the messenger gives signs of hope and comfort.
Daniel reads the book of Jeremiah and turns to God in prayer, confessing the sins of Israel. God answer's Daniel's prayer with a vision of hope: God will restore his people.
Daniel receives a vision of a ram and a goat, and is distressed. God interprets the dream for Daniel and gives hope -- although the ram is powerful and destructive, it will come to an end by God's hand
In Daniels Vision, four beasts waged war against the people of God. In the midst of this, the Son of Man came and defeated the beasts, establishing a kingdom without end.
The high officials, satraps, and other leaders sought to trap Daniel through Darius' decrees. God showed Daniel grace and provided for him even in the pit of Lions.
King Belshazzar had a haunting vision of a finger writing on a wall. Daniel interprets his vision with a warning of judgment.
In Christ, the dividing wall between God and humanity is broken. At the same time, the dividing wall between humans are broken as well. Here we discuss how we must begin to work through the dividing wall of racism in the 21st century.
Despite a second dream and a warning from Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar wrongly assumed his nation's success was a result of his own capabilities. God intervenes and shows him who has true authority over all of creation.
When commanded to bend the knee to a statue, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were faced with a choice: give into the pressure and bow down, or obey God and face death.
Sorcerers and wise could not reveal the king’s dream; but God could. And he does in response to Daniel’s prayer.
After God allowed Babylon to defeat Egypt, Daniel and his friends were placed in the king's palace. Daniel and his friends work through what it means to be faithful to God while living in Babylon
Jesus physically meets with his disciples and shares a meal with them, reminding them of the hope of eternal life.
Jesus visits two of his disciples, and teaches them how all of scripture points to himself.
On the night before his crucifixion, Jesus led his disciples out to pray. Here he calls us to turn to pray, and models how to pray during trying times.
Jesus engages a group of people outside a village - it's a familiar story with a twist.
Jesus invites us to consider what it would look like to not compare our spiritual lives to others but rather to turn to him in hope.
The good news of who Jesus is and what he's done shapes our motivation to share our lives with others.