Alliance Bible Church - Mequon, Wisconsin: Recent Episodes
Alliance Bible Church
The ways in which people deal with grief vary from person to person. At times things can feel very hopeless and filled with despair. Questions arise such as "Where is God?" or "Does He care?" How can we see God's provision in the midst of this? This Sunday we will see how the Lord shows His care for His church through the means of His church.
1) Respect for the family
2) Caring for the sufferer
Text: 1 Timothy 5:1-16
We know that the Bible is to be the foundation for everything but what does that mean for pastors and local churches? How can churches hold on to truth even in the midst of false doctrine and apostasy? We will explore the important relationship with being a hearer of the Word and a doer of the Word.
1) The teaching of God's Word
2) The saturation of God's Word
Text: 1 Timothy 4:11-16
Your pastor isn't there to meet your expectations. He's under orders, and you get to hear them firsthand. In 1 Timothy 4:6-10, Paul grabs Timothy by the cheeks and tells him exactly what a faithful pastor feeds on, trains for, and runs on, and it may not match what you've been asking for. Come find out what's really behind the pulpit, and whether your expectations would survive it.
Pastors...
1) Feed on the right things
2) Train for the right goal
3) Run on the right fuel
Text: 1 Timothy 4:6-10
Apostasy. Demonic teaching. Marriage. Food. Creation. Seems like a conglomerate of topics yet we will see all of them in the span of five verses. So, how are all these things related and what is the connection with demonic teaching? We will see how the church is God's primary means to guard against the deception of the devil!
Text: 1 Timothy 4:1-5
“Primary nonadherence”—receiving a prescription but never filling it—isn’t just a medical problem; it’s a spiritual one. Many gladly receive the diagnosis (“I need Jesus”) but quietly skip the prescription: belonging to an actual, gathered, imperfect local church. Join us as we open 1 Timothy 3:14–16 and explore why the church is God’s household, the assembly of the living God, and the pillar and foundation of the truth—and why you can’t love Jesus while ignoring his church.
The church...
1) Who we are
2) How we live
3) What we confess
Text: 1 Timothy 3:14-16
The Bible speaks of Jesus being the head of the church, but what does that mean for local churches? Is there a way in which local churches should be led? If so, are there qualifications for those leaders? The good news is that Jesus has not left us to figure this out on our own. We will see what Jesus has done for the continued maturity of his bride!
1) The office
2) The qualifications
3) The purpose
Text: 1 Timothy 3:1-13
In a cultural moment that keeps rewriting the scripts for manhood and womanhood, 1 Timothy 2:8–15 confronts us with God’s good design for men and women in worship—holy hearts, not hidden grudges; real character, not curated appearances. We’ll face one of the New Testament’s most contested passages head‑on by asking which instinct must change: our cultural one, or our biblical one. Come “unroll the original blueprint” with us and discover how God’s order, from Genesis to the gathered church, is not a burden to resent but a design we can trust and gladly embrace.
Application:
1) The integrity of worship is a shared responsibility — and your personal condition matters.
2) Stop reading this passage for what it takes away. Read it for what it's trying to produce in you.
3) Genesis still speaks — and the order it establishes is worth protecting.
Text: 1 Timothy 2:8-15
The news is exhausting. The division feels permanent. The leaders you'd pray for are the last people you want to pray for. Paul wrote 1 Timothy while Nero was on the throne. His answer to that political reality wasn't strategy or self-protection. It was prayer — bold, wide, world-reaching prayer for all people. "The Prescription: Pray Big" — because the God who wants all people to be saved is bigger than the news cycle, and your prayers should sound like it.
1) The command: prioritize praying big
2) The reason: because the gospel is that big
Text: 1 Timothy 2:1-7
Deconstruction isn't a modern invention — Paul saw it coming two thousand years ago and gave the church its prescription. We're in 1 Timothy 1:18–20, where Paul commissions Timothy to fight the good fight and names two men who didn't — and the difference between them and Timothy wasn't intelligence or background, it was whether they kept holding on. Join us as we look at the nature of the fight worth having, the weapons Paul says every believer carries, and what it looks like when those weapons are laid down.
Fight the good fight...
1) The nature of it
2) The weapons for it
3) The cautionary examples to avoid
Text: 1 Timothy 1:18-20
Amazing grace isn’t a spiritual tune‑up for basically good people; it is the rescue of confessed wretches by a Savior who dives into the freezing water to pull us from the wreck. One sentence in 1 Timothy 1:15 — “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” — has turned persecutors into pastors and teenagers into worshipers undone by the glory of God. We’ll explore how that same sentence can move from doctrine on the page to the weight on your soul and to astonished worship at the Lord’s Table.
The sentence that changes everything...
1) For Paul
2) For you
3) For the glory of God
Text: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
What's the difference between clean water and contaminated water? Often, you can't tell until people start getting sick. Paul says the same is true of doctrine — and the stakes are just as real. We're opening 1 Timothy together to ask: what does a healthy church actually look like, and why does it matter more than we think? Join us as we begin a series on God's prescription for a healthy church.
1) What we oppose
2) What we endorse
3) Why we do so
Text: 1 Timothy 1:1-11
We may find ourselves looking for rest while running on the performance treadmill of life. We think this person, or this thing, will finally provide the rest that I need and yet it never delivers. Where is true rest found? Is it even attainable? We will explore a secure and unbreakable promise of rest for the people of God.
1) A threat to rest
2) A promise of rest
3) A purpose in rest
Text: Hebrews 4:1-13
We're stepping under the altar in Revelation 6 to listen to the voices of the martyrs and the God who has never forgotten their blood. Their cry for justice, the Lamb's terrifying wrath, and the promise of white robes all collide in a single question: on that great day, who will be able to stand? Join us as we wrestle with prayers for both mercy and judgment, and ask whether there would be "enough evidence to convict" us of belonging to Jesus.
1) The martyr
2) The martyr's prayer
3) The martyr vindicated
Text: Revelation 6:9-17
War, unrest, economic anxiety, and pandemics feel like the new normal—but what if Revelation 6 says this has always been Monday in a fallen world? In this message on the four horsemen of the apocalypse, we’ll see that conquest, chaos, and scarcity are not signs that God has lost control, but instruments in the hands of the reigning Lamb. Come discover how Christ’s sovereignty can give you a holy backbone to live with courage, repentance, and unshakable hope when the world feels like it’s coming apart.
1) Life in the real world (what the horsemen show us about history)
2) Life under the real authority (who controls what the horsemen do)
3) Life with a spine (what this demands of us today)
Text: Revelation 6:1-8
Grumbling is a recurring theme in the Old Testament. God's people were rarely satisfied. This stems from unbelief, which is connected to a hardened heart. As a result, they were not allowed to enter God's rest. We too must be on guard, but how does that work? We will see how God has designed his Church for his glory and our good.
1) Stay near to Jesus
2) Stay near to his Church
Text: Hebrews 3
What if the hardest truth in Revelation isn’t the chaos of evil—but that God is sovereign over it? We'll wrestle honestly with the tension between God’s goodness, human responsibility, and a world filled with suffering, showing how one story can carry both human evil and divine purpose. Step into a deeper, unflinching look at reality—and discover why the darkest moments may set the stage for the greatest glory.
1) God's relationship to human choices
2) God's restraint of human evil
3) God's revelation in every story
4) God's purpose in ultimate glory
Text: Genesis 45:4-8; 50:19-20; 1 Kings 11:11–13, 29–39; 12:1–15; Acts 4:27-28; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
What if everything wrong in your life stayed wrong forever—no justice, no healing, no hope—and then One stepped forward who could actually change it? In Revelation 5, heaven goes silent searching for someone worthy to hold the future, until a slain yet standing Lamb walks to the throne and takes the scroll. Come stand at the edge of the throne room and see why Jesus alone is worthy to hold your future in his hands.
1) The crisis
2) The answer
3) The response
4) The mirror
Text: Revelation 5:1-14
Sometimes we might wonder why Jesus became man. Was it necessary? Did he have to face temptation? Did he have to suffer? What is the connection between it all? How does this actually help the Christian in his or her daily life? The answer is more profound and practical than you think.
1) The Powerful Savior
2) The Suffering Savior
3) The Willing Savior
Text: Hebrews 2:5-18
Just because the calendar says it's Easter, doesn't mean we feel triumphant. This year, we'll walk alongside two discouraged disciples and discover how the risen Jesus meets us in unmet expectations, fractured dreams, and quiet despair. If you’ve ever felt like life isn’t unfolding according to plan, this message will show you how the resurrection rewrites the ending—and why the worst thing is never the last thing.
Luke shows us two movements...
1) Why we get deflated
2) How we get elated
Text: Luke 24:13-35
Good Friday marks the darkest moment in history—the crucifixion of the Son of God. Yet what humanity meant for evil, God meant for good. Tracing the story of Joseph to the cross, we’ll see how the worst evil ever committed became the greatest good ever accomplished—and what that means as we come to the Lord’s Table.
Preach to yourself...
1) "Good is coming"
2) "Wait patiently"
3) "God's grace is astounding"
Text: Genesis 50:19-20; Acts 2:23; Acts 4:27-28
All week long, we are bombarded by various messages that pull us away from the truth and centrality of the Word of God. In fact, we are tempted to drift away from it. This is the concern that the author of Hebrews had for his audience. In a world where our hearts are prone to wander, we have a reliable message that is a firm foundation.
1) The danger of drifting
2) The promise of a great salvation
Text: Hebrews 2:1-4
What happens when the curtain pulls back and we see the throne room of God? In Revelation 4, John shows us a reality that changes everything—where every crown comes down and every voice cries “holy.” Join us as we discover why the cure for spiritual drift, idolatry, and empty religion isn’t more effort—it’s a bigger vision of God.
The throne...
1) What it conveys
2) What it calls for
3) Why it's needed
Text: Revelation 4:1-11
We are passionate about things that don't matter and indifferent to the things that matter most — and Jesus has a word for that condition. We wrap up Jesus' address to the seven churches of Revelation with a message to the wealthiest, most self-satisfied congregation Jesus addresses: Laodicea. Their story might be closer to home than we'd like to admit.
1) The symptom
2) The virus
3) The meds
Text: Revelation 3:14-22
What if the greatest threat to your faith didn't come from skeptics or secularists — but from the church itself? We're in Revelation 3, where Jesus warns a faithful congregation that religious people can be the most unexpected source of opposition and exclusion. But he also offers them something better than belonging: a verdict that no one can overturn.
Three different dimensions to this social shunning that we may all face...
1) The surprising source of it
2) The plan of action in the face of it
3) The reversal that ends it
Text: Revelation 3:7-13
Your church might look alive — but what does Jesus actually see? We're examining Christ's sobering words to the church of Sardis, a congregation with a glowing reputation, full calendar, and zero spiritual pulse. Come ready to ask the hard question: beneath the activity, the programs, and the appearances — is there real life?
1) The rebuke
2) The remedy
3) The reward
Text: Revelation 3:1-6
What happens when a church is full of love, but unwilling to say “no”? We'll examine Jesus’ sobering warning to Thyatira, a vibrant and compassionate church that drifted into dangerous compromise. Discover why real love requires discernment, why repentance is more than regret, and how holding fast to Christ is the only path to lasting life.
We’ll approach this in three movements:
1) The pathology of permissiveness
2) The prognosis of permissiveness
3) The prescription for permissiveness
Text: Revelation 2:18-29
Living faithfully in a culture hostile to Christ isn't easy—just ask the church in Pergamum (a.k.a. "Satan's City"). We'll discover that the greatest danger to the church isn't always external persecution, but internal compromise. But Jesus promises faithfulness will be rewarded. It will be worth it all.
If we are going to remain faithful in Satan’s city, there are three realities we cannot ignore...
1) The pressure we face
2) The danger we harbor
3) The reward we receive
Text: Revelation 2:12-17
Angels are intriguing creatures. At times they appear as men. Other times they are described with multiple wings and full of eyes! Although they might be fascinating, we must remember that they too are mere creatures who are not to be worshipped. We will explore the function of the angels and the worthiness of the Creator!
1) The creation of the angels
2) The function of the angels
3) The worthiness of the Son
Text: Hebrews 1:5-14
The world is vying for our attention in many different ways. It seduces and lures us so that we might grab hold of what is fleeting. Is there anything that truly deserves our allegiance? Join us as we look to the one who reigns supremely!
1) The Nature of the Son
2) The Offices of the Son
3) The Supremacy of the Son
Text: Hebrews 1:1-4
What does it mean to win when faithfulness costs everything? In Revelation 2:8–11, Jesus speaks to a persecuted church and redefines comfort, wealth, and victory through the lens of eternity. Discover how believers like Polycarp and Jim Elliot stood fearless and faithful in the face of flak—and how you can too.
We need to tap into sources of...
1) Unexpected comfort
2) Unconventional wealth
3) Unheralded victory
Text: Revelation 2:8-11
A church can be doctrinally sound and morally pure—and still be in danger. In his message to Ephesus, Jesus praises these much needed qualities but confronts a love that has grown cold. Discover why love for one another remains a vital part of the church's witness.
Keys to victory...
1) Theological discernment
2) Moral purity
3) Familial love
Text: Revelation 2:1-7
Many people identify as Christians, yet struggle to explain what saving faith truly looks like. In Luke 7, Jesus gives us a vivid picture of saving faith through a forgiven sinner, a self-assured Pharisee, and an unpayable debt. Join us as we explore the burden of sin, the relief of forgiveness, and the love that inevitably follows when grace is real.
Three aspects to saving faith...
1) The burden of sin
2) The relief of forgiveness
3) The outpouring of love
Text: Luke 7:36-50
People respond to Jesus in very different ways—some with honest questions, some with deep gratitude, and others with stubborn resistance. In Luke 7:18–35, we see how John the Baptist, everyday believers, and hardened skeptics each react to the same Christ. Join us as we explore these responses and ask the personal question: How am I responding to Jesus today?
Three distinct postures before Jesus...
1) Perplexity
2) Greatness
3) Unbelief
Text: Luke 7:18-35
Sometimes we have a hard time understanding the reason behind God's justice. However, what it reveals is that we have a distorted view of sin, man, and God himself. Nahum is helpful for us here as we see a clearer picture of the character of God. As we wrap up this series may you come away with a greater appreciation of Christ!
God's judgment:
1) Why is it happening?
2) What does it entail?
Text: Nahum 3
This Christmas, we’re asking a simple question: if you met Jesus in the grocery store, would you have an interest in him? At first glance, Jesus might seem like someone you could pass by without a second thought. But the more you discover about who he is and what he’s done, the more impossible it becomes to ignore him. Come discover why his extraordinary nature and breathtaking accomplishments make him worthy of your deepest devotion.
Christmas is about Jesus. He’s the main character of the story.
1) Jesus' extraordinary nature
2) Jesus' spectacular accomplishments
3) The response it calls for
Text: Hebrews 1:1-6
When it comes to words that we all associate with Christmas, joy is likely the first one on the list. You didn’t have to grow up in a Christian home to have the word “joy” in your yard or on your favorite mug. But, despite it being talked about a lot at Christmas, can’t joy seem to be elusive or a struggle compounded with a sense of pressure to be "joyful?" So if you're willing to admit some struggles with joy this season, then join us to unpack this theme from the Bible and see what it really is and how to cultivate it!
Great joy comes from our humility to celebrate God’s mercy.
Joy:
- as a deep, settled contentedness.
- as an inward delight
Happiness:
- as an outward expression of delight
Text: Luke 1:46-56
Everyone longs for “peace on earth” at Christmastime, but few stop to ask what kind of peace the angels actually announced. In Luke 2, the message isn’t sentiment, serenity, or political calm—it’s something far deeper and far more urgent: peace with God himself. Join us as we explore the Christmas gift that changes everything: “God and sinners reconciled.”
1) Peace on earth: what it isn’t
2) Peace on earth: what it is
Text: Luke 2:8-14, Romans 5:1
What we stand in awe of subtly shapes the way we live. We are attracted to awesome things. Revelation 1:9-20 lifts our eyes to the glory of Christ which is meant to reorder our lives. Join us as we explore how a bigger vision of Jesus leads to a deeper, steadier obedience.
1) The picture of Jesus
2) The proper response to him
Text: Revelation 1:9-20
Why would God have a book that just describes his wrath and judgment on his enemies in so much detail? Why spend 3 chapters explaining this so thoroughly? Isn't just one enough? God had a purpose in this for his people back then, and for us today, as we are reminded that everything written in the Old Testament is for our instruction on whom the end of the ages has come (1 Corinthians 10:11). So, what exactly is God's purpose? Join us and find out!
1) The destruction of God's enemies
2) The restoration of God's people
Text: Nahum 2
In a world filled with uncertainty, Revelation 1 reminds us that the future is not spiraling out of control—it’s rushing toward the return of Christ. When every eye sees him, no one will wonder who is ultimate. Join us as we explore how believing in the sure return of Jesus and the unfathomable greatness of God reshapes our perspective, restores our courage, and reorients our lives toward what truly matters.
What the future holds...
1) The return of Christ
2) The ultimacy of God
Text: Revelation 1:7-8
What do Elsa, from Frozen fame, Edmund Pevensie, and Frodo Baggins all have in common? Join us to find out. No, this isn't a sermon on movies. It's a sermon on Revelation and seeing yourself through Christ's eyes.
Who you are...
1) Redeemed
2) Subject of a King
3) Projector of God
Text: Revelation 1:5b-6
What if the key to life change isn't trying harder, but seeing God more clearly? In the opening of Revelation, before God tells his people what to do, he tells them who he is. What you believe about God shapes how you face challenges, temptation, and even success. Join us as we rediscover the awe of our Triune God.
Who God is...
1) Eternal, Sovereign Father
2) Omnipresent Spirit
3) Revealer, Resurrected, Ruler Son
Text: Revelation 1:4-5a
Revelation isn't a confusing riddle—it's an understandable vision from God designed to transform how you see the world and live in it. This divine prophecy promises blessing and peace to those who take it to heart, with truths as relevant today as they were to first-century believers. Discover how God's sovereign plan can bring clarity and contentment to your life right now.
1) Revelation
2) Divinely authored prophetic visionary story
3) For our blessing, peace, contentment, satisfaction, and shalom
Text: Revelation 1:1-3
Why does heaven matter more than we often realize? Because every unmet desire, every longing for approval, and every moment of pain is whispering that we were made for something more. In heaven, our deepest thirsts will finally be satisfied, our worth fully affirmed, and our sorrows transformed into glory. Join us as we explore why heaven isn’t just our future hope—it’s the answer to the ache of every human heart.
Why we need heaven...
1) To experience ultimate satisfaction
2) To receive complete validation
3) To make our sufferings worthwhile
Text: Psalm 16:9-11; Revelation 21:1-4; Galatians 5:5; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
We may have a hard time understanding the wrath of God. It may even make us feel uncomfortable. But, why is that? And what makes it challenging to share that news with others? We will see another prophet to Nineveh as Nahum helps us to see a clearer picture of God and a greater appreciation for the cross of Christ.
The wrath of God:
1) What is it
2) Who is it for
3) The comfort it brings
Text: Nahum 1
Some people treat holiness as an optional add-on to the Christian life. "It's great if you have it, but not necessarily needed." This week’s message explores how the gospel not only saves us by grace but also calls us to a life set apart—marked by holiness.
The topic of holiness:
1) What holiness is
2) How holiness develops
3) Why holiness is important
Text: 2 Timothy 1:9; Romans 8:29; John 17:17; Romans 12:2; Psalm 1; Hebrews 12:7-11; John 15:1-2; Hebrews 12:14
If you had just one day left with your loved ones, what would you say? In this week’s message, we’ll look at the heart of the gospel—what it isn’t, what it is, and how you can know with certainty that you belong to Christ. The stakes couldn’t be higher: heaven or hell. Join us as we discover why God’s radical grace changes everything and how Jesus’ perfect record can become your own.
1) What the gospel isn’t
2) What the gospel is
3) How to know if you're a Christian
Text: Luke 15:11-32; Ephesians 2:8; Mark 1:14-15; Romans 3:22
What if you only had one day left on this earth? If you had the blessing of being surrounded by loved ones on your final day, what would you tell them? What would be your last words to them? Death has a way of focusing our hearts and minds on what's most important. Not hobbies, recreational activities, vacations, or careers, but something eternal. In a world filled with distracting “siren voices,” God has given us a source of truth that never fails, a power that transforms lives, and a treasure worth more than riches. This message will help you see God’s Word not as duty, but as delight. Join us as we begin "If You Had One Day... What Would You Say?" and explore how Scripture provides truth, transformation, and joy that will carry you through life—and prepare you for your final words.
Look to Scripture for...
1) Truth
2) Transformation
3) Treasuring
Text: Psalm 90:12; Psalm 119:160; John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 119:24
Our theology, or in other words, what we believe about God, should show itself in how we live. Jonah knew that God was compassionate, yet failed to show compassion to his enemies. How could this be? Why was Jonah so angry with God? And what does that reveal about our own hearts? The final chapter of Jonah offers a glimpse into the reality of what lies within our hearts and the grandeur of God's heart.
1) An Angry Prophet
2) A Compassionate God
Text: Jonah 4
God's Word is very powerful and that is seen when Jonah preaches to the city of Nineveh. True repentance takes place in their hearts and the judgment that was promised is removed. But how does repentance take place? And what does the preaching of God's Word have to do with it? Jonah 3 gives us a glimpse into a great God and his incredible mercy towards sinners!
1) God's grace to Jonah
2) God's grace to Nineveh
Text: Jonah 3
What if the good life isn’t found in pleasure, success, or even doing good? Like Phil Connors in Groundhog Day, we try everything to escape the monotony—pleasure, accomplishment, escape, self-improvement—only to find them all empty. Ecclesiastes gives voice to our disillusionment and exposes the lie of lasting satisfaction in what the world around us offers. Join us as we explore the one place where true satisfaction is found.
True satisfaction...
1) The options explored
2) The option that delivers
Text: Ecclesiastes 1-2, 12
What does one do when they are distressed and in turmoil? At times we may turn to other "saviors" thinking they will somehow bring deliverance. These are what Jonah calls "vain idols" (Jonah 2:8). What hope can they offer? And what is the true deliverance that we need? Jonah, being in the belly of the fish, helps us to see the One who is greater than him who brings a greater deliverance.
1) The distress of the prophet
2) The deliverance of the prophet
Text: Jonah 1:17-2:10
What if the greatest threat to your spiritual life isn’t something loud and obvious, but something quiet, subtle, and living in your own heart? In Exodus 20:17, God warns us about the insidious danger of covetousness—a desire that can ignite like a powder keg, leading to a chain reaction of sin. In this message, we uncover how coveting destroys, how contentment protects, and why learning to trust God’s wisdom can uproot countless evils from our lives. Discover the ultimate Christian virtue that can bring freedom, peace, and joy no matter your circumstances.
1) The insidiousness of covetousness
2) The powder keg of covetousness
3) The kryptonite for covetousness
Text: Exodus 20:17
In a world where rumors spread faster than truth and social media fuels premature judgment, the 9th commandment still speaks with life-changing clarity: “You shall not give false testimony.” From dismantling the rumor mill to resisting the lure of gossip and slander, God calls his people to mirror his passion for truth. Discover how the gospel not only motivates honesty but also silences the accuser’s voice in your head. Join us as we explore how truth-telling protects relationships, preserves justice, and points to Christ.
A tamed tongue...
1) The epicenter
2) The concentric circles
3) The driving motive
Text: Exodus 20:16
What if theft is about more than just taking things? The 8th commandment confronts not only our actions but our hearts—exposing our discontent, distrust, and attempts to “fix” God’s plan for our lives. Join us as we uncover the root of stealing and the remarkable grace offered by the One who died to save the thief in all of us.
Theft...
1) Types of theft
2) The root cause of theft
3) Hope for the thief in all of us
Text: Exodus 20:15
The story of Jonah is like a rollercoaster ride filled with ups and downs and twists and turns. We get a glimpse into the heart of Jonah and what we see might surprise us. What is even more intriguing is that we too are like Jonah in many ways that we may not even realize. Join us as we begin a new series that not only reveals our hearts but also the grandeur of a powerful God.
1) The Omnipresence of God
2) The heart of man
3) The Sovereignty of God
4) The Judgment of God
Text: Jonah 1
Is sex just a private act, or part of something far more sacred? This week, we explore the seventh commandment—not just as a prohibition against adultery, but as a window into God's beautiful design for marriage, covenant, and holy sexuality. From Genesis to Jesus, we’ll see how God's boundaries lead not to restriction but to flourishing. Discover how the gospel offers grace, restoration, and a better way forward in a culture confused about sex.
1) The framework for holy sexuality
2) The applications of holy sexuality
3) Encouragements to holy sexuality
Text: Exodus 20:14
What if the command “You shall not murder” means more than you think? From roof railings to road rage, from suicide to sidewalk safety, this commandment isn’t just about avoiding violence—it’s about cherishing life. Explore how the sixth commandment speaks powerfully into modern issues like abortion, euthanasia, and even our own hidden anger. Discover how Jesus expands the call to value every life.
1) The commandment in the Old Testament
2) The commandment and modern ethics
3) How Jesus expands the commandment
Text: Exodus 20:13
Attention parents: this one's for you.
Attention children: this one's also for you.
"Honor your father and mother."
Join us as we explore this well-known, yet often neglected, call that originated in the mind of the Lord.
Honor your parents...
1) The weight of it
2) The reward for it
3) The broader impact of it
Text: Exodus 20:12
We live in a world that never stops—and we’re exhausted. But God built a rhythm of rest into creation, not as a burden, but as a blessing. Long before the Ten Commandments, he invited his people to trust him enough to stop. Join us as we rediscover the beauty of the Sabbath: a day to remember, a day to worship, and a day to truly rest.
1) Sabbath in the Old Testament
2) Sabbath in the New Testament
3) Sabbath in the Christian life
Text: Exodus 20:8-11
One of the themes throughout John's first letter is the theme of assurance. He wants his readers to have confidence in the eternal life that Christ has secured for them. With this certainty of their salvation, Christians are able to demonstrate their love for God by keeping His commandments. How should we view God's commands? What about when we fail to keep them? Join us as we wrap up this marvelous letter and see the majesty of the Son of God!
1) Faith is shown through our obedience
2) Faith receives life
3) Faith is kept by Christ
Text: 1 John 5
The love of God is something that is spoken of in the Bible in numerous places. Even when it is not explicitly mentioned it is seen throughout. The Apostle John tells us that God is love. What exactly does this mean and what impact does it have on the church today? Join us as we dive into the deep love of God!
We love because:
1) God is love
2) God demonstrates his love
3) God first loved us
Text: 1 John 4:7-21
What does it really mean to "take the Lord’s name in vain?" It’s about more than just swearing—it's about not carrying God’s name with honor in every part of life. Discover how the Third Commandment speaks to our identity, our witness, and the way we reflect God to the world. Join us as we explore the good life that comes from honoring the name above all names.
The Lord's name...
1) Why it's a big deal
2) What it means to misuse it
3) How to honor it
Text: Exodus 20:7
Does the Second Commandment forbid Christian art? Or is there something deeper going on there? Join us as we explore a critical component to "the good life": access to the presence of God.
1) The motive
2) The command
Text: Exodus 20:4-6
What if the Ten Commandments are more than just ancient rules—but a window into the heart of God and a roadmap to the good life? As we begin this new sermon series, we’ll see how the commandments reveal who God is, who we’re called to be, and how love is at their very core.
Five Preliminary Points About the Ten Commandments:
1) The Ten Commandments tell us about God
2) The Ten Commandments show us who we are to be
3) The Ten Commandments form the basis of New Testament ethics
4) The Ten Commandments can be distilled down to two commands: love God and love neighbor
5) The Ten Commandments are not the recipe for salvation, but the response to salvation
Commandment #1:
1) What it meant
2) What it means
3) Why it's good
Text: Exodus 20:1-3
The Bible often warns us against false prophets. It is all throughout the pages of Scripture. So, how can a local church discern truth from error in a world filled with mixed messages? The answer is more straightforward than you might think!
1) Christians must test doctrine
2) Christians must hold fast to truth
3) Christians must listen to truth
Text: 1 John 4:1-6
What if the chaos of history isn't as random as it seems? In Daniel 10-12, we’re given a rare glimpse behind the veil—into the unseen spiritual conflict shaping world events. Even empires rise and fall according to a divine script. This final message in the book of Daniel invites us to find strength and confidence in God's sovereign hand, even in turbulent times.
In this final installment of this sermon series on Daniel, we'll consider...
1) The spiritual warfare of historical commotion
2) The futility of historical commotion
3) The divine constraints on historical commotion
4) The final accountability for historical commotion
Text: Daniel 10:1-12:13
To modern-day Christians, Babylon is a symbol of spiritual resistance that seeks to extinguish the faith of those who follow Jesus. Daniel 9 offers a powerful framework for how believers can not just survive, but thrive in Babylon. Join us as we continue to deep-dive into the book of Daniel!
Thriving in Babylon requires...
1) Zeal for Scripture
2) Impulse to confess sin
3) A map of the future
Text: Daniel 9:1-27
History has a checkered past: wars, government corruption, and sinister characters. And the future isn't so bright either. However, God doesn't want his people to live naively, paralyzed by the unknown. Living wisely in Babylon means having some sense of what the future holds. God's Word gives that to us. Join us as we continue our journey through the book of Daniel.
The three primary characters in Daniel's vision:
The ram (Daniel 8:1-4; 15-20)
The goat (Daniel 8:5-8; 21-22)
The little horn of the goat (Daniel 8:9-14; 23-27)
Applications:
1) Predictive prophecy of Scripture
2) The unpleasantness of God's Word
3) The ferocity and fragility of human nations
4) The courage-inducing knowledge of future darkness
5) The comfort-providing truth of a Sovereign Author
Text: Daniel 8:1-27
Jesus told his disciples that people will know that they are his disciples by their love for one another. Since Christ laid down his life for us we are to do the same. But what keeps us from showing that love? And what does it look like to love in deed and in truth? Join us as we continue to journey through this marvelous letter of John!
1) A negative example
2) A positive example
Text: 1 John 3:11-24
Skepticism over the Jesus story isn't a new phenomenon; it's as old as the Bible itself. Join us as we take a close and personal look at the resurrection from a questioner's perspective. Is it possible that skepticism is actually a part of the Easter story?
1) The request of a healthy skeptic
2) The confession of a converted skeptic
3) The effect of a former skeptic
Text: John 20:24-29
Irony = the opposite of what is expected.
The trial and crucifixion of Jesus is filled with ironies. This can serve to pour fuel on the fires of our faith because realities are different from appearances.
Irony #1: Religious devotion hides animus toward Jesus
Irony #2: Underhanded political maneuverings fulfill Scripture
Irony #3: The dismissed King really is a King
Irony #4: The innocent is condemned, the guilty goes free
Text: John 18:28-40
Hollywood movies are a clear indicator that the end of the world is of interest to many people. We all have an existential angst about not just our personal future, but the future of the universe. Maybe God put that interest in us. What better place to turn than the Bible to find answers to how the world will end.
1) The beastly nature of history
2) The ironclad kingship of heaven
3) The final conflict of suffering
Text: Daniel 7:1-28
If you think Daniel walking out of a lions' den without a scratch is amazing, just wait to see what happens at the end of time when Christians walk out of the den of God's judgment without a scratch. The critical question is: will that be you?
Four principles for how Christians do engaged alienation wisely:
1) Be never-despairing yet never-presuming
2) Defiantly...pray
3) Don't trust "Persia's" leaders
4) Trust the righteousness of Christ
Text: Daniel 6:1-28
"Say what?" The Bible has a lot to say about how we speak. We'll be doing a study on sanctified speech: what is it, and why is it important?
Text: Selected Scriptures
Beleaguered exiles living in the belly of Babylon need the reminder that a just, powerful, and good God is calling the shots and pulling the strings. He will not turn a blind eye to those who mock him and his people. This is both reassuring and alarming. Do you know why?
A megalomaniac's tragic end...
1) Who a megalomaniac mocks
2) What a megalomaniac treats with contempt
3) What this leads to
Text: Daniel 5:1-31
Worldliness characterizes Babylon. Worldliness is whatever makes wickedness look normal and righteousness look strange. That is prevalent everywhere you look. God's people can feel small and insignificant in the belly of Babylon, but the truth of the matter is: God rules “Babylonian” leaders and “Babylon” for the good of his people.
A megalomaniac's testimony...
1) Intellectual disruption
2) Experiential crisis
3) Volitional submission
Text: Daniel 4:1-37
If you make it your obsession to treasure Christ above all else in Babylon, it will cost you dearly. Just ask Shadrack, Meshak, and Abednego. But it will be worth it. And the Lord will make sure you have what you need to remain faithful to him against all odds.
Treasuring Christ in Babylon...
1) The opposition we'll face
2) The miracle we'll pray for
3) The fellowship we'll receive
Text: Daniel 3:1-30
"Image is everything."
This famous slogan from 1989 still rings true in the modern world. We judge by appearances. One of the consistent themes of Scripture, however, is that things are not always as they seem. Though our various "Babylons" may look strong, formidable, and daunting, reality may be much different. This is a much needed message for exiles.
This reality check comes at us in three waves...
1) Don't be fooled by appearances
2) Remember who the Star of the show is
3) Get the big picture
Text: Daniel 2:1-49
Worldliness is whatever makes wickedness look normal and righteousness look strange. Worldliness characterizes "Babylon". Babylon is in every country in the world. It's also present in our communities, schools, and places of employment. So how do God's people live wisely in Babylon? Join us as we begin a new series on the book of Daniel, which serves as a manual for wise living in Babylon.
Life in Babylon...
1) How we get there
2) What we maintain there
3) Who we bless there
4) The promise we cling to while there
Text: Daniel 1:1-21
How does one become a child of God? Or is everyone automatically a child of God? Is it possible to be a child of God at one point in life and then lose that status? Do you want to know if you are a child of God? Join us to find out!
Children of God...
1) Are born of God
2) Are loved by God
3) Practice righteousness
4) Hope in God
Text: 1 John 2:28-3:10
Antichrists. Apostasy. Anointing. Abiding. What do these have in common? John talks about each of them in the same passage! Why would he bring these up? And what purpose do they serve to us centuries later? All this and more as we dive into a crucial teaching from this letter!
1) A Sober Warning
2) A Vital Doctrine
3) A Precious Promise
Text: 1 John 2:18-27
Intense moments of suffering can make you feel like God has turned his back on you. This is why we need to notice how Jesus handled the suffering of those like us. When Jesus' life intersected with sufferers, he wasn't cold or distant. He was personal and very engaged.
1) The compassion of Christ
2) The power of Christ
3) The future they foreshadow
Text: Luke 7:11-17
Quite a few people think that when they die and meet God face to face, they'll be able to outline how their good deeds outweigh their bad deeds and that will be sufficient for God to say to them, "Come on in!" This is one of the biggest lies out there. If you're not sure how all this works, join us as we examine the type of faith that actually saves.
Saving faith...
1) Comes by hearing
2) Confesses unworthiness
3) Trusts in Jesus' authority
Text: Luke 7:1-10
Nobody wants to die of a disease they didn't know they had. When it comes to our salvation, Jesus doesn't want anyone unsure of their condition. Jesus will help us examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith.
1) The nature of an authentic Christian
2) The evidence of an authentic Christian
3) The hope of an authentic Christian
Text: Luke 6:43-49
Jesus didn't come to earth to affirm everything about us. He came to live the perfect life we could never live and in doing so, to model for us the kind of life those who follow him are called to live. Join us as we think about the kind of church Jesus wants.
The kind of church Jesus wants is characterized by...
1) Magnanimous natures
2) Discerning followers
3) Changing people
Text: Luke 6:37-42
The world has a certain pull on our hearts. We crave attention, status, and popularity. However, we find that these are temporary and don't bring true satisfaction. So where is true satisfaction found? Join us as we explore what lasts forever.
1) Love of the world
2) Love of the Father
Text: 1 John 2:15-17
If Jesus was to knock on your front door this Christmas, how would you react? Shock? Excitement? Irritation? The familiar characters of the Christmas story are representative of modern responses to Jesus' knock at the door. They invite us to identify with them and ask: how would I respond?
1) Hostility
2) Indifference
3) Worship
Text: Matthew 2:1-12
Unfortunately, the story of Christmas can become stale and dull in our hearts. We often forget about the importance and the purpose of the birth of Jesus. Join us as we see how truly life-changing this is!
1) Jesus is the true Messiah
2) Jesus is true God and true man
3) Jesus is the true and only Savior
4) Jesus is the true temple
Text: Matthew 1:18-25
Genealogies can't be interesting, can they? They're just a list of names no one can spell or pronounce. Why bother with them? Join us and you'll discover why Jesus' genealogy could be the best gift you get this Christmas.
The genealogy of Jesus points to him as...
1) The ultimate hero
2) The giver of grace
3) The source of significance
Text: Matthew 1:1-17
Resources:
- Andrew Peterson - "Matthew's Begats" (Official Lyric Video)
- Matthew 1:1-17 ESV
World War 2... 9/11... Indonesian Tsunami... Hamas' attack on Israel... There's no shortage of bad things that happen in our world. Why do they happen? What purpose do they serve - if any? Suffering, adversity, and hardship are a part of life, so how do we handle those without collapsing under the weight of them?
1) What bad things test
2) How to counsel others through bad things
3) How to get through bad things
Text: Job 1-42
Parenting is overwhelming. How does one raise another human being to be well-adjusted, self-sufficient, and charitable? On top of that, how does a parent raise kids who love and follow Jesus? There are no easy answers, but we'll mine the Bible for wisdom.
Parenting...
1) Why it's hard
2) What it entails
3) Its limitations
Text: Proverbs 13:24; 20:7; 22:15; 23:26; 29:15; Romans 3:10-18; Deuteronomy 4:9-10; 6:4-9; Ephesians 6:4; Hebrews 12:7-11
Surveys indicate couples get married primarily for happiness. Is that what marriage is about? Since God instituted marriage, let's ask him what purposes he had in mind when he created marriage. It might change the way you view your own marriage.
1) The definition of marriage
2) The commitment of marriage
3) The mystery of marriage
Text: Ephesians 5:22-33
We're supposed to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. But the world is filled with wonderful things like sunsets, oceans, strawberries, and bacon! Are we wrong to enjoy the things of earth? How can we enjoy life while still honoring the Lord?
Life's little pleasures...
1) Help us understand and enjoy God
2) Show us how to live wisely in God's world
3) Meet our God-defined needs
4) Give us experiences of God's glory and goodness
Text: Genesis 1-2; Psalm 1:1-3; Proverbs 24:13-14; Matthew 6:25-27
Money is a substantial part of life. You need it for food, shelter, clothing, education, rest and relaxation... and pretty much everything else. It's not surprising the Bible has a lot to say about it. God earnestly desires to cure us of money sickness and establish us in money wellness.
1) Beware of money sickness
2) Symptoms of money sickness
3) How to acquire money wellness
Text: Luke 12:13-34
We need friendship... more than many of us realize. But our approach to this is often browsing the field of potential friends in order to find the "right one" for us. Maybe that's backwards. The better way is: "How can I be the kind of friend I've always wanted?"
1) The importance of friendship
2) The nature of friendship
3) How to be the kind of friend you’ve always wanted
Text: 1 Samuel 18-20; John 15:13-15
Retirement is often viewed as the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Why? Because work can be downright frustrating. But God designed us to work. He instituted work. Grasping his vision for work is important to finding meaning in your work.
Four ways God wants you to see your work:
1) We were made to work
2) We were made to do skilled work
3) Work is a way to love your neighbor
4) Work is a way to worship God
Text: Genesis 1:26-27; 2:2-3; 2:15; Matthew 22:34-39
The Church is a unique entity unlike any other. It is through the church that God’s wisdom is displayed to the heavenly beings. But what does this mean for the believer? Should he or she orient their life around it? Join us as we seek the Scriptures to see the importance of the bride of Christ.
1) The Church belongs to God
2) The Church stands on truth
3) The Church confesses Christ
Text: 1 Timothy 3:14-16
Is there more to being a Christian than “praying a prayer” to “get in?” Is there a personal benefit to spiritual growth? What does God want for me once I become a Christian? These are important questions that impact the emptiness or fulfillment we get out of life.
1) Why is spiritual growth important?
2) How does spiritual growth happen?
Text: John 15:5-8; Ephesians 4:11-16; Colossians 1:9-14; Hebrews 5:11-14; Psalm 1; Romans 5:3-4
Ask a random person on the street what the definition of “Christian” is, and you'll likely get numerous answers. The necessity of getting the answer right is clear: some people think they're Christians, but in reality aren't.
Three themes that characterize Christ-followers: Christians.
1) "I’m sinful."
2) "I need a Savior."
3) "I’m a new person."
Text: Luke 7:1-10; 36-38; 44-50
What makes it so hard to love our brothers and sisters in Christ? What is actually going on at the heart level when it comes to despising or hating someone in the church? Is it possible to be free from the bitterness and anger attached to it? We will look at the connection between walking in the light and loving one another.
1) Old commandment
2) New commandment
3) Hatred
4) Adoption, one anothers, and Colossians 3:14
Text: 1 John 2:7-14
We've made it. We complete "The Book About Everything." From fan clubs to excommunication; from lawsuits to sexual immorality; from head coverings to spiritual gifts, there isn't much we haven't explored. We finish with... drum roll please... Paul's travel plans. What?!?! There's more in there than you think.
Applications:
1) Remain flexible
2) Commit to love
Text: 1 Corinthians 16:5-24
Fun fact: 42% of Jesus' stories were about money, stewardship, and giving. Why so much? How we handle money is critical to our discipleship and it also poses great challenges to our discipleship. Paul picks up the mantle to provide us with the mechanics and motive for giving.
Two points of emphases for Christian giving...
1) The mechanics of giving
2) The motive for giving
Text: 1 Corinthians 16:1-4
The afterlife: will there be one? If so, what will it be like? The Christian teaching on this topic is beyond our wildest dreams. But sadly, so many people misunderstand what eternal life will be like. Bottom line: it's going to be amazing!
Jesus' resurrection isn’t just a celebration of a past resurrection. It's a celebration of a future coming resurrection. Your resurrection. Your bodily resurrection.
1) What it will be like
2) Who makes it happen
3) How it changes your attitude towards death
Text: 1 Corinthians 15:35-58
What is it that actually occurred on the cross? What did it accomplish? And is there any connection with this and Jesus' commandments? We will see the distinction and importance between God's gospel and his law!
1) Jesus is our advocate
2) Jesus is our propitiation
3) Jesus is our example
Text: 1 John 2:1-6
The mortality rate among human beings is 100%. Nobody gets out of life alive. So what happens after that? There is a way to face your death with hope and confidence, but it requires getting serious about Jesus. Join us as we come face to face with the astonishing truth of life after death.
1) The necessity of Christ's resurrection
2) The certainty of the believer's resurrection
3) The kind of life called for by the resurrection
Text: 1 Corinthians 15:12-34
In order for news to be "good news", it has to have some personal impact on us. Hearing that Australia beat India in the Cricket World Cup Finals isn't news that's likely to exhilarate too many of us. Hearing your debts have been paid or getting a clean bill of health is a different story. So where does Jesus' death and resurrection fit into that spectrum? Is it generic good news? Or is it personal good news?
The gospel...
1) Christ's death
2) Christ's resurrection
3) The difference it makes
Text: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
Why do we go to church? What's the point? Many Christians don't have an answer. God wants us to and he has a goal in mind. Join us to gain a better understanding of why we gather.
1) Tongues
2) Prophecy
3) The heart of the matter
Text: 1 Corinthians 14:1-40
What does confession have to do with the Christian life? Are Christians supposed to confess their sins anyway? Aren't we already forgiven? We will look at an often overlooked aspect of our sanctification and see its implications for the church today.
1) The fruit of darkness
2) The fruit of light
Text: 1 John 1:5-10
"Love" dominates the music scene. From the Beatles "All You Need is Love" to The Backstreet Boys "As Long As You Love Me" to Justin Bieber's tune of the same title, we're preoccupied with love. But popular culture has a knack for distortion. We'll regroup by looking at arguably the most famous chapter in all of Christian Scripture.
Love...
1) The nature of it
2) The indispensability of it
3) The permanence of it
Text: 1 Corinthians 12:31b-13:13
A vehicle's electronic ignition system is a far more complicated auto part than the oil drain plug. But would you want to be without either of them? Just like there are no insignificant parts to a car, there are no insignificant parts to a church. Join us to be reminded of your value to the church.
Church life...
1) The single dimensionality of the church
2) The multi-dimensionality of the church
3) The functionality of the church
Text: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31
"Pentecostalism," or the "Charismatic Movement," has received a bit of attention over the relatively recent past. Undergirding these conversations is the fundamental role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers for the work of ministry in the church. We begin Paul's section of 1 Corinthians that delves into these fascinating and sometimes controversial topics.
Manifestations of the Spirit...
1) What they are
2) The role they have
3) The ultimate purpose they serve
Text: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
The Lord's Supper has been something Christians have practiced for centuries. It's meaningful. It's powerful. But it can become like wallpaper: we just don't notice its significance. Join us as we dive back into one of the primary texts of Scripture that teach us what this ordinance is all about.
The Lord's Supper is...
1) A time for unity
2) A time to remember
3) A time to proclaim
4) A time to self-examine
5) A time to be cautious
Text: 1 Corinthians 11:17-34
If someone were to ask you who God is, how would you respond? One of the common phrases we use is that God is love, which comes straight from the Bible. One that we don't often think of is that God is light! What exactly does this mean? And what implication does this have for the church today? Join us as we explore the character of God and how we are to live in light of it!
1) The purity of God
2) The purity of God's people
Text: 1 John 1:5-10
"Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head, but every wife who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, since it is the same as if her head were shaven" (1 Corinthians 11:4-5).
Say what?!?! Head coverings. Long hair. Shaved head. What is this about? Bizarre!
That may be, but we'll explore a Scripture passage that has a lot to say about a very hot contemporary topic.
Applications:
1) The goodness of authority and virtue of submission
2) The prudence of visible distinctions between male and female
Text: 1 Corinthians 11:2-16
There is confusion surrounding the nature and person of Jesus Christ. Is he equal with God? Was he a created being? These questions have been asked throughout church history. What has the church believed about Jesus through the centuries? How does God's word teach us about who he is? Join us as we take a look at the nature of the Son and why that matters for the church today!
1) The eternality of God
2) The manifestation of God
3) The fellowship of God
Text: 1 John 1:1-4
What do tattoos, electric guitars, and reproductive technologies have in common? Conscience is involved in using or not using them. Join us as we learn how to "read the room."
Conscience:
1) What it is
2) How to calibrate it
Text: 1 Corinthians 10:23-11:1
The Christian life is compared to a marathon. Even if you've never run a marathon, this comparison makes sense. It feels like that. Some days are good days. Some days are bad days. The greatest threat is not finishing. The greatest joy is making it across the finish line. So what will it take to do so?
Three fundamentals required to win at the only race that matters... the Christian life:
1) Past blessing is no indicator of future victory
2) Clear and present dangers
3) Don't consort with known "apes"
Text: 1 Corinthians 9:24-10:22
Have you ever wondered what Jesus is currently doing? And is there any connection to this and his ascension? As we wrap up our last installment to our series, we will look at an often overlooked aspect of Jesus' ministry and see what implications it has for the church and the world today.
1) The New Testament Survey
2) The Old Testament Survey
Text: Acts 1:6-11, Psalm 2, Hebrews 1
Ever wonder why most 21st century preachers don't speak using Elizabethan English? Or why churches use instruments such as guitars and drums? Have you ever wondered why missionaries wear clothing that looks different from the rest of us? Sorting out what is necessary for the gospel and what is a cultural form are important matters when it comes to reaching people. Join us as we ponder the "Hudson Taylor Principle."
1) The minister's right (vv. 1-14)
2) The minister's flexibility (vv. 15-27)
Text: 1 Corinthians 9:1-23
"Be true to yourself."
"You do you."
"Me, myself and I."
But what happens when these aren't good for someone else? Our culture may not value how one's choices impact other people, but Christians are called to live with consideration for other believers. Join us as we continue in our series on 1 Corinthians.
Text: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
There's no shortage of marriage books, conferences, counseling, or other miscellaneous resources available to married couples. In this surplus of media, unintended consequences can emerge: singleness is devalued and too high a premium is placed on marriage. Today's text will help us reach an equilibrium on these topics.
Revolutionary thoughts on marriage...
1) Marriage isn't everything
2) Marriage is distracting
3) Marriage is for God
Text: 1 Corinthians 7:25-40
Sacraments or Ordinances? What should we call them? How many are there? Do they have any bearing on the local church? Do any of these questions even matter? Join us as we find out why Baptism and the Lord's Supper have been debated throughout Church history and their relevance for us today.
1) The biblical pattern of the ordinances
2) The theological foundation of the ordinances
3) The ecclesiological implications of the ordinances
Text: Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Selected Scriptures
How many of us are wearing clothes we bought ten years ago? How many are using computers we bought five years ago? How many of us are driving vehicles more than fifteen years old? Very few of us would answer 'yes' to those questions. The air we breathe is designed to agitate us against the status-quo and implant in us a desire to go over there, up there, under there... anywhere but here.
Do you ever find yourself exhausted by this? If so, the apostle Paul has a good word for you: blossom where you are planted; embrace the power of staying put; be a tree, not a tumbleweed.
How do we blossom where we're planted...
1) Acknowledge your divine appointment
2) Clarify your personal identity
3) Value our collective diversity
Text: 1 Corinthians 7:17-24
One of the top 5 "sticky wickets" in the church surrounds the complexities of divorce and remarriage. When is it permissible? When is it not? How does one handle an unbiblical divorce and remarriage? None of these are easy matters, but God has spoken and today we'll listen to him.
1) Instructions for the unmarried in the church
2) Instructions for the married in the church
3) Instructions for the married and "spiritually single" in the church
4) Divorce and remarriage principles
Text: 1 Corinthians 7:8-16
Same-sex marriage. Sexual orientation. LGBTQ+. These are common words and symbols in our day and age. Even among Christians there is confusion over how to assess the rapid movements of these ideologies. We'll dig into God's Word to mine for God's perspective on these pressing matters.
1) The Bible and Same-Sex Behavior
2) The Bible and Same-Sex Desire
3) Closing Reflections
Text: Selected Scriptures
It's not fun to think about it. It's never enjoyable when it happens. And sadly, it's everyone's destiny. However, the resurrection of Jesus supplies the kind of hope that can look it in the eye and say, "You are defeated!" Come hear about "The Death of Death.”
1) The importance of thinking about death
2) The reason death exists
3) The hope available in the death of death
Text: James 4:14; Psalm 90:12; 39:4; Romans 5:12; Ephesians 2:1, 4-5; John 11:25-26
The curtain of the temple was torn in two.
The earth shook.
The rocks split.
The tombs were opened.
The bodies were raised.
What is going on?
On this day, God was "throwing his weight around." The death of Jesus was literally earth-shattering. Why? Join us for a special Good Friday message as we ponder this question.
The cross of Jesus Christ...
1) The reason for it
2) The voluntariness of it
3) The results it produced
Text: Matthew 27:45-56
We all love a good "comeback" story! We love to watch the phoenixes of our world rise back up out of the ashes of failure and soar to victory. We often applaud their strength and envy their success. But what about the "brought-back" stories? The ones where the central figure fails horribly and then gets mercifully picked back up? How do we respond to those stories and what might we learn from them? Let's consider someone who seems to test the limits of how far someone can fall in their faith and how far God can restore them.
Text: Matthew 26:69-75
"Once there was only God." So we should probably ask him about his purposes for sex. Join us as we dive into this "hot topic."
A synopsis of the Bible’s teaching on sex:
1) Sex and covenant
2) Sex and procreation
3) Sex and enjoyment
4) Sex and the grace of God
Text: Genesis 2:24; 1:28; Proverbs 5:18-19; Song of Solomon 5:10-16; John 4:1-26
Red skin. Horns. Pitchfork. What comes to mind? Most likely you thought of the devil. But is this how he is described in the Bible? And how exactly does he operate? Why would God even create him in the first place? Join us as we look at another facet of the glorious gospel!
1) The dawn of Satan
2) The domain of Satan
3) The defeat of Satan
Text: Genesis 3:15, Hebrews 2:14, 1 John 3:8
In a book dedicated to promoting the holiness of God's people, did you ever think one of the topics Paul would bring up is "marital intimacy?" Even this part of our lives needs to be done God's way. Join us as we continue our "sub-series" on the Christian sex ethic.
The Christian sex ethic is...
1) Anti-ascetic
2) Anti-hedonistic
3) Mutually self-giving
Text: 1 Corinthians 7:1-7
In this message, we begin a "sub-series" on the Christian sex ethic. What is sexual immorality? How do we glorify God in our bodies? It's a thousand piece jig-saw puzzle we'll start assembling.
How do we glorify God with our bodies in a sexually disordered world?
1) Question the prevailing winds
2) Know your enemy
3) Give your body an upgrade
Text: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
"I think we are too ready today to see vindication or vengeance through adversary proceedings, rather than peace through mediation... Good Christians, just as they are slow to anger, should be slow to sue." - Antonin Scalia
This is a good summary of the apostle Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 6. Join us as we resume our series, "The Book About Everything."
Three important principles for the church to faithfully live out when it comes to settling personal grievances:
1) Keep it in-house
2) Reenact the gospel
3) Value the church's witness
Text: 1 Corinthians 6:1-11
Scripture tells us we should be true worshipers. What can we do to move toward becoming the kind of true worshipers that God seeks? Join us as we consider what it means to be an authentic worshiper.
1) What is worship?
2) What is the kind of worshiper God seeks?
3) How do we become the kind of worshiper God seeks?
Text: John 4:23-24
There's nothing distinctly Christian about loving people who love you. Christian love is exceptional: it demonstrates love for enemies. Join us as we contemplate one of the most challenging teachings of Jesus to faithfully live out.
Christian love...
1) The exceptional nature of it
2) The motivations for it
Text: Luke 6:27-36
"And they lived happily ever after."
Why do so many fairy tales and children's stories end this way? God put that desire in us. We long for "happily ever after." We hope it's true. Someone is going to get an ending like that. Who? Join us to find out.
Four blessings and four woes that together they function to:
1) Comfort the disturbed
2) Disturb the comfortable
3) Forecast the great reversal
Text: Luke 6:12-26
What do you think will give you contentment? What will provide you the satisfaction you long for? The answer to that could be a lengthy list. But most, if not all, items on that list will disappoint in the end. We settle too easily for secondary things. So what won't disappoint? Join us and find out.
Sabbath ("rest"):
1) How to miss it
2) Tastes of it
3) How to get it in full
Text: Luke 6:1-11
Some people have the perception that Christians are spoilsports. Perhaps we are. But people never said that about Jesus. If anything, they accused him of having too much fun. Is that the Jesus you know? Join us and come meet Jesus.
1) The atmosphere he encourages
2) The challenge he issues
3) The difficulties he foresees
Text: Luke 5:33-39
When it comes to football, there is one key factor that distinguishes every player from a fan. While both might wear jerseys, know plays, love the team, watch films, recite stats, and more, only one of them steps onto the field and plays the game. It is a distinguishing quality. For a genuine Christian, there is also a distinguishing quality, and should be a major theme in the character of our church. Join us for the final message of the Major Themes series as we take a look at this key factor.
1) The law of love.
2) The ability to love.
3) The need for love.
Text: John 13:31-35
Who is Parson Brown? What is figgy pudding? Why are we telling scary ghost stories? Some of our favorite Christmas tunes have strange language in them. When we sing a song like "O Holy Night", there shouldn't be any mystery as to what we are declaring. It contains the best news you'll ever hear.
1) Feel the worth of the Savior
2) Exhibit a unique community
Text: Luke 2:1-20
"Peace on earth" shows up on Christmas cards and wrapping paper, but if that's what Jesus was supposed to bring, how do we explain the bloodshed of the 20th century? And what does "veiled in flesh the godhead see" mean? Or what's up with this reference to "sun of righteousness?" "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is a favorite of many, but its treasures are often hidden underneath unfamiliar lyrics. Join us as we learn from this beloved Christmas carol.
1) Peace on earth and mercy mild/God and sinners reconciled
2) Veiled in flesh the Godhead see/Hail the incarnate deity
3) Son of righteousness/ris'n with healing in his wings
Text: Luke 2:14; John 1:1,14; Malachi 4:1-2
"O Come, O Come Emmanuel" is one of the oldest Christmas carols we sing, but have we ever understood what "ransom captive Israel" or "Dayspring" or "rod of Jesse" means? Join us as we familiarize ourselves with this hymn filled with hope for a bright future!
1) Ransom captive Israel
2) Dayspring
3) Rod of Jesse
Text: Isaiah 35; Luke 1:76-79; Isaiah 11:1-3
Welcome to the ace of spades, diplomatic immunity, "it's none of your business what I do behind closed doors." The "do not judge, lest ye be judged" card gets played a lot. Who can argue the point? It's Scripture! But have we understood that biblical text correctly? Join us as we delve into this hot topic!
1) The call to judge
2) How to judge
Text: Matthew 7:1-6
When we consider the gospel, our minds don't tend to go to the Old Testament (and especially not to Abraham). However, we find that there is a relationship with Abraham and the gospel. In fact, it was preached to him! What is the connection between the blessing of Abraham and the person and work of Christ? Join us as we take a look at another angle of the gospel!
3 Implications:
1) The gospel is for all people
2) The church is God's nation
3) You will never be cut off
Text: Genesis 12:1-3
When you were born again, you were made part of the family of God; an adopted son or daughter. You now have the great privilege and calling to bear the family resemblance; to be like your heavenly Father. So how do we help each other with this? Join us as we think about three ways to maintain the holiness of the church.
1) Communally
2) Expulsively
3) Repentantly
Text: 1 Corinthians 5
“I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion.” —Alexander the Great
“No man will make a great leader who wants to do it all himself, or to get all the credit for doing it.” —Andrew Carnegie
“Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.” —Warren Bennis
There's no shortage of perspectives on leadership. While we may be quick to quote the ear-candy of others on the topic, how many have really dug into what Scripture has to say about leadership? We'll explore four qualities of leaders who unify.
Church leaders who unify are...
1) Jesus-pleasers
2) Biblically faithful
3) Self-sacrificing
4) Imitable
Text: 1 Corinthians 4
From childhood to adulthood, we're meant to grow out of some things and grow into other things. The same is true of the Christian life. We'll consider marks of "spiritual adulthood." Do you have them?
1) Selfless contentment
2) Modest view of church leaders
3) Insistence on sound doctrine
4) Reverence for the church
Text: 1 Corinthians 3
In the life of a local church, central themes begin to emerge and take shape over time. Whether it’s through theology, polity, or major events, these themes slowly rise to the surface and form the broad brush strokes of a church's identity. We’ll examine another major theme that the Scriptures prescribe for the church and how this good, yet challenging, theme drives us again to the true and final head of the church, Jesus Christ.
1) Our Leaders
2) Our Congregation
Text: Hebrews 13:7-13
If a church chooses to be a plain, simple, vanilla church that doesn't use trendy or attractive means to get people in the doors, like giving away two new cars each Sunday, how will they ever reach people? Join us to find out how it is the church has never had a problem reaching people.
Applications:
1) Don't be infatuated with the applause of a dying world.
2) Pray for the supernatural work of the Spirit in a dying world.
Text: 1 Corinthians 2:6-16
One of Satan's tactics is to accuse us of our sin. This usually causes us to think that there is no way that we can stand forgiven and righteous before God. At times we may be filled with despair and wonder how we could ever be saved. But how does Jesus' obedience set us free from all of this? Join us as we look at this vital truth and how it impacts us everyday!
Text: Zechariah 3
What if Alliance Bible Church started giving away a brand new car to someone in attendance at each worship service every Sunday? 104 cars given away each year. What would happen? What do you think about that method? Good idea? Bad idea? Controversial idea? Join us as we ponder "means and ends."
Application:
1) The gospel will be treated with contempt
2) The gospel will have broad appeal
3) We win people to what we win them with
Text: 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5
Does our church have a "fan club" problem? If so, they need to be disbanded. Jesus said, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand" (Matthew 12:25). Fan clubs don't promote unity. But unity is necessary for longevity, strength, and effectiveness. Join us as we kick our first "hornets' nest."
Two keys to unity in the church...
1) Disband the fan clubs
2) Distinguish between means and ends
Text: 1 Corinthians 1:10-17
If you had to address a church struggling with division, sexual immorality, church members suing each other, misunderstanding surrounding divorce and remarriage, and numerous other problems, where would you start? Join us as we start a new series on First Corinthians entitled: The Book About Everything.
1) The nature of our identity
2) The source of what's good
3) The certainty of future grace
Text: 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
Have you noticed how much we talk about and use the word “gospel” at Alliance Bible Church? In fact, it is such a major theme that you might be asking questions like, “where is all of this coming from?” or, “does it matter?” or maybe even, “does it work?” We’ll dive into this major theme and consider the unique center point that the gospel provides.
1) The gospel is the message of the bible.
2) The gospel is the message of our salvation.
3) The gospel is the message of God’s power.
Text: Selected Scriptures
Every day you face the threat of the "greener grass conspiracy." It causes you to think to yourself, "If only I had that, then I would be content." You weren't made to be satisfied with petty things like career, human approval, or money. There's only One who offers you the contentment you long for. Join us to find out Who that is.
1) Earthly masters are never satisfied
2) Earthly methods are never satisfying
3) The satisfying method and master we need
Text: Genesis 29:31-30:24
If someone were to ask you what the gospel is, how would you respond? Would you speak of Matthew, Mark, Luke or John? Would you talk about God's commandments? Would you speak of the life of Christ? While the gospel means "good news," what does this actually entail? Join us as we journey through the surface of the very deep waters of the gospel!
1) The mystery of the gospel
2) The riches of the gospel
Text: Ephesians 3:1-13
What if tomorrow morning you woke up and God said, "Today will be your last day in the wilderness. Tomorrow you will enter the Promised Land." Besides jumping for joy, how would you spend your final day? What would you do? The reality is: each of us should live today as though we will enter our final rest tomorrow. Join us for the conclusion of our series, "Lessons from the Wilderness."
There is, in this story, a clear message to those already saved by grace: fit yourself for the Promised Land. Fit yourself for the rest that awaits you. Fit yourself for the kingdom to come.
1) Consecrate yourself
2) Follow that "box"
3) Memorialize the miracle
Text: Joshua 3:1-4:7
This wilderness story involves complaining (surprise!), snake bites, death, and a bronze serpent on a pole. What's even more interesting is that this story is something Jesus relates himself to in a fascinating conversation with a religious leader who thought he was on solid spiritual footing. There's a lot going on, but it offers us one very important lesson for survival in the wilderness.
1) Sin
2) Judgment
3) Repentance
4) Salvation
Text: Numbers 21:4-9
The Christian life is lived in the wilderness where we face a variety of threats. How we respond to them matters to God and impacts our future. To get equipped for faithful and fruitful wilderness living, join us...
If we want to avoid perishing in the wilderness, and we want to make it into our final rest, we’re going to need to hold onto these two truths:
1) Keep your divine design goggles on
2) Fan into flame the fires of faith
Text: Numbers 20:1-13
The fear of man expresses itself in many different ways. It’s an issue that plagues us more than we would like to admit. How do we actually become free from its terrifying grip? Join us as we look at Israel’s example to see where true freedom is found!
1) The Report
2) The Rebellion
3) The Retribution
Text: Numbers 13-14
Nobody ever goes to see a counselor and says, “Help me! I’m addicted to complaining.” Perhaps we assume that since we all do it so often, complaining can’t really be so bad. But the way the Lord responds to Israel's complaining would indicate it's more noxious than we are willing to admit.
1) The disease of complaint
2) The root cause of complaint
3) The intercessory rescue of complainers
Text: Numbers 11
Relational conflict, financial struggles, physical ailments, and spiritual opposition all characterize life in the wilderness. But that doesn't mean life is purposeless. We'll explore two critical truths God gives us to help us thrive in the wilderness: who we are and what we're here for.
Wilderness wanderers...
1) Who we are
2) What we're here for
Text: Exodus 19:1-8
Our love affair with sin is our first obstacle in the wilderness. But it isn't the only one. External threats will attempt to prevent us from entering our final rest. We have a real spiritual enemy with minions who would love to see us perish in the wilderness. The Christian life holds in store for us battles to be fought. How do we fight and win?
1) Fighting
2) Teamwork
3) A Staff
Text: Exodus 17:8-16
Have you ever come to a point where your prayers seemed trite, boring, or ineffective? If this malaise continued, you may have even wondered if God was still listening. As discouraging as these times can be, they can also become turning points where we begin to reexamine the way we pray. We’ll focus on the simple but vital question of, “How should I pray?”
1) Our asking honors our relationship.
2) Our expectations honors His heart.
3) Our Father honors us with His best.
Text: Luke 11:1-13
As Christians, we believe that God has a sovereign plan for our lives, yet we can often find ourselves struggling to understand His will, feeling frustrated and stymied when pursuing answers. Join us as we continue in our mini-series, "The How Factor," where we'll examine a biblical framework for enjoying, and trusting, God’s guidance in every season of our lives.
“How can I know God’s will for my life?”
1) By understanding my limitations
2) By realizing my freedom in Christ
3) By seeking godly wisdom in my decisions
4) By listening to the Spirit’s promptings
Text: Selected Scriptures
One of the most productive kinds of questions a Christian can ask are “How Questions.” Understanding how to apply what you believe when it comes to a question like, “How should I share my faith?” is critical. Under the mounting cultural pressure to make faith something quiet and private, having a clear understanding of how to share one's faith has never been more relevant. This week join us as we dive into another big question with practical take-aways.
1) Sharing the gospel with confidence.
2) Sharing the gospel out of obedience.
Text: 2 Corinthians 2:14-17
Underneath our complaining about our circumstances there's a subtle suing of God going on. We've put Him on the stand and are charging Him with a capital offense. There's a better way to navigate life in the wilderness.
Wilderness life...
1) Why we respond poorly
2) How to respond well
Text: Exodus 17:1-7
Can I trust the Lord with this? How often do we find ourselves asking that question? We'll observe three shortcomings that protrude from distrust in the Lord and what the real solution is to thriving in the wilderness.
1) Jumping ship
2) Anchoring our security to having excess
3) Denying the need for rest
Text: Exodus 16:1-36
The Christian life is lived in the wilderness, where our faith is repeatedly tested. God uses Israel's forty-year excursion to teach us about the various challenges Christians will face. If you want to be better equipped to live well in your own wilderness, join us for Part 2 in our series, "Lessons from the Wilderness!"
1) How we get there
2) Why we need it
3) What we receive while we're in it
Text: Exodus 15:22-27
Have you ever read the Old Testament and been perplexed or confused by what you just read? Have you ever wondered what the relevance was in a certain passage? We will begin our journey through the wilderness as we look at the Exodus from Egypt and its relevance for the church today!
1) God leads His people
2) God saves His people
3) God protects His people
Text: Exodus 13:17-14:31
A wayward child generates a mixture of thoughts and feelings that can leave parents confused and questioning. What essentials do we need when our prodigal leaves us feeling out of sorts? We'll consider three important fundamentals that can serve to re-anchor our souls.
1) Your prodigal child is not your enemy.
2) Remember your children are children not idols.
3) God is ultimate, not your prodigal child.
Text: Ephesians 6:10-20; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Exodus 9:13-16
Many of us know what it's like to watch someone we love run from God. In a word, it's painful. Through the helplessness, we claw and scratch for ways to bring them back. But there are no easy answers and no shortcuts. In the end, we have to trust God knows what He's doing. Join us as we take some time to reflect on, and pray for, the prodigals in our lives.
1) What prodigals do
2) What the father does
Text: Luke 15:11-24
The most productive kinds of questions a Christian can ask are “How?" questions. Understanding how to apply what you believe is a game-changer, and with a question like “How do I know I’m saved?” the stakes couldn’t be higher. Join us as we dive into a big question with practical takeaways.
The truth of this answer helps us diagnose and address some common struggles that come up when this question crops up:
1) Steadies the fearful
2) Challenges the faltering
3) Exposes the false
Text: 1 John 4:7-5:12
Lament is a spiritual skill God has provided to triage our wounds in dark times. But how is lament done? We'll look at a map for lament that will make this practical and applicable to everyday life.
A basic map to lament:
1) Remember the past
2) Grieve the present
3) Petition for the future
Text: Psalm 44
The death of a loved one.
The dissolution of a marriage.
The loss of a job.
The betrayal of a friend.
So many things can go wrong in life. What do you do to cope with hardships like these? On the whole, Christians are missing a spiritual skill that would serve to triage our wounds. The skill is called "lament." Join us for Part 1 of this two-part series.
1) The validity of lament
2) The occasion for lament
3) The fruit of lament
Text: Psalm 22
Do the Scriptures teach anything about religious liberty? Or is it a modern construct? Join us for an interesting dive into a hot topic.
Theological moorings:
1) The Noahic Covenant and religious liberty
2) The imago Dei (“the image of God”) and religious liberty
3) Christian mission and religious liberty
Applications:
1) Christians should be advocates for the religious liberty of all people
2) Christians should work for Christian conceptions of justice in the public square
3) Christians should pray for national leaders to govern according to a biblically moral framework
Text: Genesis 6:9-9:7; Matthew 22:17-22; 1 Timothy 2:1-4; Daniel 2:44
Inconceivable. Unthinkable. Impossible.
Humanly speaking, faith in the crucified and risen Christ is impossible. But the tomb is empty. God's messenger has told you the crucified Jesus is no longer there. He has risen. It’s decision time. How will you respond?
The resurrection highlights...
1) The impossibility of faith
2) The necessity of fear
3) The decision that must be made
Text: Mark 16:1-8
Finger-pointing: we're all skilled at it. Parents blame kids. Husbands blame wives and so on. Why? The reason we continually pass the buck is that we know we can't bear the weight of our own guilt. If we have to answer for what we've done, we'll be crushed. But there was One who took the finger-pointing in our place. It's the good news of Good Friday.
1) The peculiar roles he plays
2) The unthinkable act he endures
3) The freeing condition he provides
Text: Isaiah 52:13-53:12
When we think of royalty we may think of the red carpet and flashing lights. We probably wouldn't think of a king coming in humility, yet that is how Jesus came. What does this mean and what are the implications of this for his church? Join us as we take a look at the one true King!
1) The Nature of the King
2) The Nature of the Kingdom
Text: Matthew 21:1-11
A common approach to giving comfort in suffering is to reassure the sufferer that there are good reasons for the suffering; compelling answers to "Why?" questions. The book of Job teaches us consolation may be better given through a different question: "What?" Join us for the final installment of "Trusting God in the Darkness," where we will explore an unexpected approach to finding comfort in dark times.
1) What God says
2) What God doesn’t say
3) What it means for handling suffering well
Text: Job 38-42
When tragedy strikes, where do you turn? We usually turn to our friends and family. Why? Because we're looking for comfort and counsel. But not everyone is good at giving it. We'll learn from Job's "miserable comforters" to see what we can learn about how to offer good comfort to those grieving.
1) How not to counsel
2) How to self-counsel
3) The best counsel
Text: Job 3-37
Pull up news headlines circulating at any hour and you'll read about suffering. The loss doesn't have to be death. You might be grieving the loss of your health or the health of a loved one. You might be struggling through a time of financial need. Suffering is a certainty in life. So how do we learn to trust God in the darkness? Join us as we jump into a new series on the book of Job.
Looking at suffering from four vantage points:
1) How Satan sees suffering
2) How God sees suffering
3) How Job sees suffering
4) How you can see suffering
Text: Job 1:1-2:10
The Bible. It is the most widely read, quoted, translated, published, and sold book of all time, but what do you believe about it? In our series, Final Authority, let’s get curious about the claims of this book of books and consider what those claims mean for our lives today. Join us for the second message of this two-part series.
Three very practical ways we can listen to all that God has said in His Word to endure all that this world can do:
1) See it.
2) Receive it.
3) Practice it.
Text: 2 Timothy 3:10-17
The Bible. It is the most widely read, quoted, translated, published and sold book of all time, but what do you believe about it? In our series, Final Authority, let’s get curious about the claims of this book of books and consider what those claims mean for our lives today.
1) Scripture is accurate.
2) Scripture is powerful.
3) Scripture is special.
Text: 2 Peter 1:16-21
"I'm not worthy to be a follower of Jesus Christ."Has that thought ever crossed your mind? There is good news if it has. Jesus doesn't pigeonhole you into who you currently are. Rather, he sees in you the potential of who you can become. That's worth celebrating!
1) Who he came for
2) What he called for
3) The befitting culmination of it
Text: Luke 5:27-32
"I think when God wants to play a really rotten practical joke on you, he grants you your deepest wish." - Cynthia Heimel
We are easily duped into thinking getting our deepest wishes will satisfy. Celebrities of all walks of life will tell you otherwise. Jesus refuses to play this rotten joke on us. He offers something far better.
1) The place of felt needs
2) The nature of faith
3) The priority of forgiveness
Text: Luke 5:17-26
Unacceptable. Worthless. Unwanted.
There was a man Jesus lovingly engaged with whose life could be described this way. Perhaps you can, on some level, relate. Come find out what Jesus did for him and can do for you.
A transforming encounter with Jesus:
1) The precursor to it
2) The radical nature of it
3) The costly love it requires
Text: Luke 5:12-16
No one is born a Christian. So how does one become a Christian? Luke helps us see how this happens by telling us stories about the first people to ever make the decision to follow Jesus. We'll get a good look at how that happened in the life of the earliest follower of Jesus: the infamous Simon Peter.
How does one become a Christian?
1) Hear
2) Trust
3) Confess
4) Respond
Text: Luke 5:1-11
The modern world struggles with anything that can't be accounted for scientifically. So when we see Jesus casting out demons or healing people, is it reasonable to believe he did such things? If those stories are true, what are they telling us? Perhaps there's a supernatural component to our existence that we have ignored. Join us to find out!
1) Jesus and the miraculous
2) Jesus and the spirit world
3) Jesus and the rest you need
Text: Luke 4:31-44
Michael Richards, who played Kramer in the famed sitcom Seinfeld, severely harmed his career when he let loose a string of ethnic slurs on the stand-up stage. Years later, it doesn't appear his search for absolution has proven to be fruitful. Yet many of us are quietly living lives acutely aware of our unrighteousness and desperate need for forgiveness. But who can give it? Join us to find out.
Jesus announces his mission statement:
1) What he came to do
2) Who he came to reach
3) How he would be received
Text: Luke 4:14-30
Did Jesus really exist? If he did, then everyone has some work to do: to figure out what kind of existence he had. And if we find he was who he claimed to be, then he can't be ignored.
Key phrases:
1) "Many"
2) "fulfilled among us"
3) "eyewitnesses"
4) "carefully investigated… orderly account"
5) "Theophilus"
6) "that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught."
Text: Luke 1:1-4
We usually want to follow the leader with the perfect resume that comes from a very distinguished family rather than a person with humble beginnings. This is what Nathanael first thought of when he heard of Jesus. Perhaps you have the same thoughts of Jesus as well. Maybe you think he is not one worth following. In the words of Philip, "Come and see," and catch a glimpse of the Son of God!
1) The Identity of Jesus
2) The Exclusivity of Jesus
Text: John 1:43-51
We are impressed by whatever we deem to be greatness. This could be an undefeated sports team or a new technological device with all the right specs. What about a baby in a manger? How could a lowly child really be the King of the universe? We will look at one of the prophecies that foreshadowed the One who truly stands above the rest.
1) The Gift of the Son
2) The Name of the Son
Text: Isaiah 9:1-7
From signs held up during field goals and the bottom of In and Out Burger cups, to Forever 21 shopping bags and Tim Tebow's eye strips, "John 3:16" makes frequent appearances. In its familiarity, what gets lost is the message it contains specifically for you. Come hear about the greatest gift ever given.
The greatest gift...
1) The shocking recipients of it
2) The exorbitant cost of it
3) The means of benefiting from it
Text: Selected Scriptures
The world is vying for our attention in many different ways. It seduces and lures us so that we might grab hold of what is fleeting. Is there anything that truly deserves our allegiance? Join us, as we look to the One who reigns supremely!
1) The Nature of the Son
2) The Offices of the Son
3) The Supremacy of the Son
Text: Hebrews 1
As we move closer to Christmas, let's begin engaging with the significance of Jesus' arrival expressed in lyrics like these...
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see
Hail the incarnate Deity
Pleased with us in flesh to dwell
Jesus, our EmmanuelJoin us for the first of a two-part series, "Emmanuel."
It’s Christmas. The time of year we celebration the incarnation: God becomes flesh.
Why did Jesus have to be fully God and fully man?
1) To reveal the Father to us
2) To redeem us
3) To model the ideal human being
Text: John 1
“Without air, our cells die. Without a story, our selves die.” - Neil PostmanChristianity has transformed countless lives not by appealing to the human will, but by telling a story. Join us for the conclusion to the series, "The Story." The final installment promises an indescribable future meant to give you hope in the present.
The end of the story results in…
1) A Populous People
2) Living in God’s Dwelling Place
3) Walking With Him in Humility, Trust, and Obedience
Text: Revelation 21
Many of us are familiar with the saying, “Arguing like an old married couple.” Sadly, this description is more serious than comical for many couples as deep-seated arguments and conflicts, if left unresolved, eventually strain marriages, families, and even ministries and churches. Join us as we examine a very significant and destructive issue, marital strife.
1) Source of Strife
2) Symptoms of Strife
3) Solutions to Strife
Text: James 3:1-18
Do you want to see change in your marriage, your kids, or yourself? Do you want to become more joyful, self-controlled, and loving? Jesus lived and died to make this possible. Join us as we look at the topic of Christian change.
Christian Change…
1) The Nature of Change
2) How It Happens
Text: Galatians 5:16-26
Access restricted. This is something we're familiar with. Whether it's work facilities, airports, or sports venues, there are places we can't access whenever or however we want. The same is true of heaven. Access to heaven is restricted. But there is a solution. And it's worth hearing about it.
1) What Inhibits Access
2) The Means of Access
3) The Outcome of Access
Text: Leviticus 16; Hebrews 9-10
Why would a prominent Bible scholar, on his deathbed, say, "I’m so thankful for the active obedience of Christ. No hope without it."? We'll explore why the answer to this question is foundational to our eternal destiny.
Microcosm of a Righteous Life...
1) Accept the Certainty of Spiritual Opposition
2) Have a Game Plan
3) Rest in the Righteousness of Christ
Text: Luke 4:1-13
Few issues are as destructive to our relationships as the issue of addiction. Thankfully, the Scriptures are far from silent on this issue. We’ll take a look at the deeper issue of addictions and the deeper healing which is needed.
1) The Invitation to Life
2) The Invitation to Death
Text: Proverbs 9
We can learn a lot about the character of someone by looking at what they require. What if a business had expectations of employees that work not be done on Sundays and instead quality time be spent with family? Those expectations tell us something about who they are. So it is with the 613 laws that make up a large swath of the Old Testament. They tell us something about God.
The law...
1) Reveals what God is like
2) Shows us who to be
3) Anticipates the One who does it all
Text: Exodus 19-20
Hope. We all crave it. We all search for it. But everything we set our eyes on is corrupted by sin and incapable of giving us hope. So where is it to be found? We'll see how a couple dealing with infertility was given hope beyond their wildest dreams.
God’s Rescue Plan for Humanity... A Gospel Explosion:
1) Why We Need It
2) Who Lights the Fuse
3) How to Respond to It
Text: Genesis 12:1-3
It can be tempting to turn the proverbial “lights” down and try to ignore certain issues in our lives. However, when we ignore large and dangerous struggles, we set ourselves up for serious relational and spiritual messes. One of those large issues we can be tempted to leave unattended is our anger. We will shine the light on the seriousness of anger and how the Scriptures would counsel us to deal with it.
1) Seeing Our Reasons for Anger in Light of God’s
2) Seeing Our Responses of Anger in Light of God’s
Text: Ephesians 4:25-5:2
The "greener grass conspiracy" is a powerful force in our lives. It whispers in our ears, "If only you had that, then you'd be happy." Sadly, this isn't some benign phenomenon. It's a tactic straight from the devil's playbook. Let's get wise to it.
1) Sin’s Runway
2) Sin’s Takeoff
3) Sin’s Landing
Text: Genesis 3
"Once there was only God." Think about that for a moment: once there was only God and absolutely nothing else. Difficult to imagine, isn't it? But The Story begins there and we won't understand it unless we start by pondering the all-powerful, self-existent, owner of all things, God.
1) The Eternality of God
2) The Power of God
3) The Ownership of God
4) The Goodness of God
Text: Genesis 1
If someone asked you what the storyline of the Bible is, how would you respond? What passages of Scripture would you use? Is there actually a specific plot? We will take a journey through the pages of Scripture to discover the central theme!
1) Premise
2) Storyline
3) 3 Implications
Text: Selected Scriptures
Contentment can be elusive. We get duped into thinking it can be found in career, romance, money, approval or a hundred other different ways. But experience says finding contentment in those areas of life will leave us empty. This is what makes Jesus' invitation to you so astonishing. Join us as we look at the greatest invitation ever given.
1) Who Qualifies for It
2) What It Entails
3) How to Obtain It
Text: Matthew 11:28-30
False teaching is prevalent in our society today. Yet this isn't something new, as it has been around since the fall in the garden of Eden. What is the church supposed to do? How is she to live as she waits for the return of Christ? We will take a look at the letter of Jude, who points us to our only hope!
- Contend for the Faith
- Continue in the Faith
- Christ Keeps Us in the Faith
Text: Jude
With the Lord continuing to bless ABC with growth and a vision to start another church, we're going to need an army of people willing to lead and serve. We'll consider five traits of a helpful ministry partner from the shortest book of the Bible: 3 John.
A helpful ministry partner is...
1) Committed to prayer
2) Walking in truth
3) Selfless
4) Taming the tongue
5) Investing in Christian enterprises
Text: 3 John
In the information age, you have access to copious amounts of false teaching every day. YouTube and platforms like it can be a theological jungle that pose a real threat to you. We'll examine some tactics the apostle John gave Christians facing this same challenge.
Tactics:
1) Walk in Truth
2) Love One Another
3) Exercise Discernment
Text: 2 John
Institutional injustice, reconciliation, and forgiveness are deeply felt issues in human experience. But the Bible's way of handling these is often believed to be counterintuitive and even surprising. We'll explore the power of Jesus to change individuals and bring about relational and cultural renewal.
1) The Subversion of Institutional Injustice
2) The Mending of Relationships
3) The Embodying of the Gospel
Text: Philemon
Does God have enemies? If so, who are they and what makes them His enemies? As we kick off a new series, "Few Words, Big Truths," come explore the little known book of Obadiah and get answers to these questions... They are important for you to know.
1) God’s Opposition to Pride
2) God Opposes Those Who Oppose His People
3) Restoration of His People
Text: Obadiah
Have you ever heard someone say something that sounded close to the truth, but was still completely inaccurate? When you hear someone say something almost truthful, it can create a lot of confusion. We’ll consider one of those truthful-sounding catchphrases under the microscope of God’s Word. Together we’ll clear up the confusion surrounding the old saying, “God won’t give you more than you can handle.”
1) Presumptive Mindset With Temptation
2) Provisional Mindset With Temptation
Text: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13
Inside and outside of Christian circles, people have a way of talking about various types of Christians. Usually, these terms boil down to discussions around someone who practices their faith and someone who only says they have faith. This way of looking at things raises an important question of whether or not someone can be a Christian without practicing their faith? We’ll examine this question and more in Part 3 of, "Catchphrase Christianity."
1) What are we to make of a non-practicing Christian?
2) What does a Christian look like in practice?
Text: James 2:14-26
“Let go and let God” is a motto often shared with someone who's struggling or burdened by a difficult situation. It sounds like a nice idea and is often said in a kind-hearted way. However, what does it really mean to “let go and let God,” and is that a piece of advice a Christian should follow? We’ll explore this and more in Part 2 of "Catchphrase Christianity."
Two problems that this advice presents and one solution to embrace:
1) Problem 1: Overconfidence in ourselves.
2) Problem 2: Underconfidence in God’s means.
3) Solution: Cooperation with God in obedience that leads to assurance.
Text: Philippians 2:12-14
Our words reveal what's in our hearts. However, we rarely consider how certain words or phrases that we use in conversation might show us something about what we really think, desire, or believe about life. Do we see these phrases in the Word of God? Join us as we begin a new series, “Catchphrase Christianity,” a thought-provoking series on reframing everyday words in light of God’s Word.
"Blessed" refers to someone who is approved and favored by God in the new kingdom. Now, if that’s how the Scriptures would have us understand this term:
1) What does that mean for how we’re using blessed?
2) How does Jesus describe someone who’s blessed?
3) Why is this someone who’s blessed?
Text: Matthew 5:2-12
Our world is filled with tabloids about the hottest news. It captivates our attention and we crave it more and more. But have you ever stopped and wondered, what is it about gossip that draws you in? Why do we participate in it either passively or actively? The answer might be more interesting than you realize.
1) What Is Gossip?
2) Why Do We Do It?
3) How Can We Replace It?
Text: Selected Scriptures in Proverbs
"Everything rises and falls with leadership." We instinctively know this to be true. Leadership is crucial. But approaches to leadership vary as much as temperature swings in Wisconsin. What wisdom does Proverbs offer in a world in desperate need of leadership integrity? Join us to find out!
Three noticeable characteristics that enable a leader to effectively lead from the front...
1) Character
2) Discernment
3) Action
Text: Proverbs 20:28; 16:12-13; 29:4; 20:8; 20:5; 25:2-3; 20:26
The apostle Paul puts raising kids on the official list of "good works" (1 Tim. 5:10). It's a God-ordained calling, but not easy. Proverbs offers us some foundational nuggets of wisdom that we're prone to forget.
1) Instruct Them
2) Model for Them
3) Discipline Them
Text: Proverbs 23:22-24; 4:3-4; 20:7; 23:26; 13:24; 29:15; 22:15
Sluggard. Kind of a disgusting sounding word, isn't it? It's not a bug, grub, or insect, but it is a character that makes repeated appearances in the book of Proverbs. Who is this mysterious figure? Here's a hint: Jesus wasn't one... neither should we be.
1) Nine Characteristics of a Sluggard
2) Three Formation Tactics to Enact
Text: Proverbs 6:6-11
We've all had different experiences with friends regardless of our age. Perhaps we have had strong relationships or maybe been hurt by others. But what is true friendship? Is it attainable? Most importantly, is this addressed in Scripture? Join us as we look at what the Proverbs teach us about friendship.
1) Worldly Friendship
2) Biblical Friendship
Text: Selected Scriptures
It's been said that wisdom is the gift of living with God-honoring competency in the gray areas of life when there's no Bible verse telling you what to do. Most of life is lived in the gray areas. So wisdom becomes exceedingly important. Join us as we begin a new series on the book of Proverbs.
1) The Power of Words
2) The Economy of Words
3) The Healing of Words
Text: Proverbs 18:20-21; 10:19; 18:2; 12:18; 16:24; 12:25
The siren's call of financial success promises status, security and hope for a good life, while disguising the dangers and temptations inherent to wealth. We’ll examine the seductiveness and deceptions of worldly wealth and how the reality of the gospel offers instruction for how to truly enjoy "the good life."
1) A Truth to Embrace
2) A Practice to Follow
3) A Result to Expect
Text: 1 Timothy 6:17-19
Every Christian has experienced the pressure to fit in. Whether in school, at work, or at play, sometimes our social circles compel us to squeeze ourselves into a different mold. What's actually happening in these instances is more sinister than we may realize. So much so that Jesus took the time to teach about it.
Craving Acceptance...
1) Can Be a Barrier to Saving Faith
2) Creates Invisible and Inaudible Believers
3) Comes From Fear and Love
4) Is Anchored in Pride
5) The Antidote
Text: John 5:43-44; John 12:36-43
Think about this: technology has shifted the balance of power from nature to human beings. The world used to be an objectively authoritative place. Today, it's filled with "stuff" we manipulate and use to suit our desires. This subtly undermines an important biblical ethic: the goodness of authority and virtue of submission. And it does so under the guise of, "Be free!"
1) Authority and Submission Are in Our Divinely Given DNA
2) Authority and Submission Do Not Devalue
3) Authority Is Divinely Assigned, Not Humanly Created
4) Submission Is Not Absolute
5) Relationships of Authority and Submission Contribute to Human Flourishing
Text: Selected Scriptures
A boost of self-esteem. Feeling loved and significant. Experiencing satisfaction. Does Jesus give us these things? Is God's greatest desire to make you feel good? Is this the gospel? We will take a look at this in light of the temptation of Christ.
1) Satan Wants You to Be Comfortable
2) Satan Wants You to Test God
3) Satan Wants Your Allegiance
Text: Matthew 4:1-11
We are living in a day and age where language and meaning are destabilizing. Words once thought to have simple, straightforward definitions are getting contorted. How does a Christ-follower find their way through this sort of thing? Join us as we begin a 5-week series entitled "Deception."
In surveying all the passages that talk about justice, here are some observations:
1) Justice is both more and less than we think of it today.
2) None of these exhortations to live justly are given to non-believing people.
3) The overwhelming majority of these exhortations to live justly have to do with how God's people treat each other.
4) Justice exhortations are behaviorally individualized.
Text: Matthew 12:33-37
Alliance Bible Church is expecting and we're due to give birth to Lakeside Alliance Church in the fall of 2023. This message will provide some of the answers to the questions many are asking including: Why plant a church? Why plant in this particular area? And who will be leading the charge to make it happen?
Have you found that a bigger house, a nicer vacation, or a better job has given you only short-lived satisfaction? Are you asking the question, "Shouldn't there be more to life?" Join us for our Easter celebration message to find out about the One who can enthrall, mesmerize, and captivate our lives!
1) Hope in the God of Unexpected Reversals
2) Trust the God of Powerful Illuminations
3) Treasure the Christ of the Resurrection
Text: Matthew 28:1-10
Jesus' trial was a sham. But we bear a striking resemblance to those who rejected His kingship that day. How it all unfolded is simply a remarkable portrayal of the best news ever.
1) Rejection Method #1: Pleasing the Crowd (Pilate)
2) Rejection Method #2: Stubborn Resistance to the Authority of Christ (Chief Priests)
3) Rejection Method #3: Disappointment (Crowd)
4) What Jesus Does About It
Text: Mark 15:1-15
Our disbelief in God's ability to perform the extraordinary keeps us confined to a small world. We play it safe. As we finish our study of Acts, we'll explore a story that blows holes in that approach to life and inspires us to take a risk and step out in faith to watch God do what only He can do.
1) Beware of Manmade Attempts to Manufacture the Extraordinary
2) God Uses the Apparent Triumph of Evil to Spark Revival
3) God Does the Extraordinary
Text: Acts 19:11-20
Many Christians have concluded that handling the Word of God is a job best left to the “professionals.” What they’ve missed is how God uses everyday men and women to bring His Word to every corner of creation. As we continue our series, “Move,” a study of the book of Acts, we’ll see how God used everyday Christians like us to carry His message near and far. We’ll consider what goes into this ministry of the Word and how we can help others encounter the Word of God.
1) Are We Passionate
2) Are We Passionate About Others
3) The Truth About Jesus
Text: Acts 18:24-28
It's easier to talk with people about Jesus if they have some basic understanding of the Bible. But what do you do with people who are largely unfamiliar with it? Join us as we learn from Paul who faced that challenge in Athens. His approach will provide us with some helpful direction as we minister in an increasingly secular society.
Four Tips on Engaging Secularized Culture Faithfully and Fruitfully:
1) Expect Friction
2) Establish Pivot Points
3) Engage in Full-Orbed Truth Telling
4) Envision Diverse Responses
Text: Acts 17:16-34
One of the unmistakable themes in the book of Acts is God's mission to multiply gospel-preaching churches. There are rarely enough. More are needed. We'll observe how God used a tragic event to birth a new church and feed its explosive growth.
The birth and explosive growth of a healthy church requires...
1) Dispersing
2) Speaking
3) Depending
4) Reflecting
Text: Acts 11:19-26
Can two completely different and opposing groups of people be reconciled to one another? Is it even possible? Join us, as we look at the unfolding redemptive plan of God in bringing enemies together in Christ.
Text: Acts 10
One of the most challenging obstacles to Christian community is the "clique" feeling. It might surprise you that the Scriptures hint at a ministry we all have that God can use to overcome this and deepen connections among one another. Join us to learn more!
1) Our Reticence to Include
2) The Reason We Hesitate to Include
3) The Pathway to Christian Inclusion
Text: Acts 9:26-31
If you’ve ever wondered whether or not God can use you after all of the sin, failures, and brokenness in your life, then you’re not alone. Whether we ask this question about ourselves or if we ask it about somebody else – we are faced with a question that shouldn’t be simply tossed aside, avoided, or left to our own assumptions. Rather, we need a solid and biblical way to unpack this challenging question regarding our usefulness and purpose. We will aim to do just that as we look at the next message from the book of Acts.
1) God Has Chosen Us With a Purpose
2) God Has Chosen Us in Our Problems
3) God Has Chosen Us to Receive Power
Text: Acts 9:10-19
Many Christians seem stymied and stuck when it comes to sharing their faith. Some feel incredibly awkward about sharing, others never seem to find an appropriate time to talk about it, and still, others wonder if it even matters in such an informed and polarized climate. These thoughts and feelings are enough to keep many Christians safely on the sidelines from ever engaging in the movement of the Gospel in their world. In this message, we’ll look at a passage of Scripture that cuts to the heart of our confidence in sharing our faith, and it will offer us the help we need to get off the sidelines and into the adventure.
1) God’s Power to Save
2) Our Confidence
Text: Acts 9:1-9
Sometimes the growth and expansion of the church can create a good problem as in the case in Acts 6. How does the church continue to proclaim the word of God, while at the same time care for a growing congregation? The answer might be more simple than you think.
5 Implications:
1) There Is No Perfect Church
2) Unity Is Essential in a Church
3) Ecclesiology Matters
4) The Church Uses Ordinary Means
5) Christ Will Continue to Build His Church
Text: Acts 6:1-7
Imagine a world in which there are no financially or materially destitute people among us. We don't have to imagine. The Church is meant to be a unique community. One of those uniquenesses is the care Christians give one another when needs arise. It's beautiful when it happens.
1) Radical Generosity Is More Than the Dollar Amount
2) The Church Is a Movement of Radical Generosity
3) Gospel Proclamation and Response Is a Precursor to Radical Generosity
Text: Acts 4:32-5:11
Revival doesn't mean opposition to the gospel stops. In many cases, it intensifies. So what then? A church on the move remains bold and courageous, but not by a sheer act of willpower. The roots of courage are deep. We'll discover what they are.
1) They Pray for Boldness
2) They Focus On the Sovereignty of God
3) They Pray With Bible-Rooted Confidence
4) They Use the Past to Shape Expectations for the Future
5) They Were Filled Afresh With the Holy Spirit
Text: Acts 4:23-31
Sociologists and psychologists think they have figured out the secret of how things go viral. But there's one viral phenomenon that defies naturalistic explanation: revival. It's mysterious and unpredictable, but undeniable. Join us as we gaze in wonder at it and pray, "Lord, do it again!"
1) The Power of the Gospel
2) Essentials of a Church
3) Revival
Text: Acts 2:37-47
What would you say are the top 5 most important days in world history? One of those top 5 days is recorded in Acts 2. It's the day the Lord endowed his people with his power and presence. The result and implications of this are staggering.
1) Never Question God’s Timing
2) Don’t Cluster - Scatter
3) The Gospel Story Is Powerful - Trust It
4) Gospel Proclamation Generates Diverse Reactions
Text: Acts 2:1-13
The book of Acts records the church on the move; spreading, growing, and expanding. This was God's plan all along: to reach the world for Christ through the church. Join us for the series "Move," as we consider the great privilege of being tasked with this incredible mission.
1) Jesus Is Building His Church
2) The Kingdom Is Spiritual
3) The Mission of the Church Is to Bear Witness to Christ
Text: Acts 1:1-14
Every year people make resolutions. What causes some resolutions to fail? Is it even possible for any to succeed? Join us as we look at one resolution that will never be thwarted!
1) The Church Is Centered on Christ
2) The Church Is Victorious
3) The Church Is Christ’s Embassy
Text: Matthew 16:13-20
As Christmas passes, many of us will have opened our presents, feasted, and enjoyed time with our families. Time with Jesus helps us examine our hearts as we pursue treasure in heaven and eternal life. Join us as we look at how the impossible is possible with God.
1) Am I Possible?
2) Impossible With Man
3) Possible With God
Text: Matthew 19:16-30
Are you weary or discouraged? Jesus came to mend broken hearts.
1) What Is Brokenheartedness?
2) How Does Jesus Mend Brokenheartedness?
Text: Luke 4:16-21, Isaiah 61:1-2
During the Christmas season, the expectation of joy often runs at an all-time high. Yet, it often seems elusive, confusing, and if we’re honest – even fake. So what really is joy and what is so unique about it? We’ll explore these questions and more as we discover why Jesus came... to bring joy.
Discovering Joy:
1) The Cause of Joy
2) The Nature of Joy
3) The Evidence of Joy
Text: Luke 2:8-20
One of the main features of our Christmas celebrations are the lights. Some people lavishly coat their homes in them and they are a sight to see! Light is also a main feature of the Christmas story and it is profoundly relevant. Join us to discover how Jesus came to bring light to the world.
1) To Illuminate
2) To Generate Life
3) To Mesmerize
Text: John 1:1-9
Peter has prepared Christians for social marginalization, economic discrimination, and overall malignment. So what will it take for us to make it through this fiery ordeal and arrive safely in the presence of God? Join us as we explore answers to this question in our final installment of the series, "Alien."
1) Christlike Leadership
2) A Culture of Humility
3) Spiritual Alertness
Text: 1 Peter 5:1-14
How does the Christian persevere when he or she is faced with insults because of their faith? Is it even possible to rejoice in the midst of it? Join us as we look at the purpose in our suffering and how that relates to God's sovereign plan.
1) It Tests Our Faith
2) It’s Sharing in Christ’s Suffering
3) It’s God’s Will
Text: 1 Peter 4:12-19
Imagine someone who has never heard of Jesus. They begin attending Alliance Bible Church and observe you at both church and in the world. Then they're given a New Testament to study. Would they conclude that you live in the world and with other believers in a way that corresponds to what they've read? This week we'll look at a section of 1 Peter that provides us with a clear summation of how the Christian life is to be lived in the world and within the church.
1) The Exile’s Way With the World
2) The Exile’s Way With Other Exiles
Text: 1 Peter 4:1-11
Jesus always intended the Christian life to be public, not private; to be practiced out in the open, not behind closed doors. He also knew this would create friction with a world that finds him and his followers socially indigestible. We'll think through these topics, as we continue in our series on 1 Peter.
1) The Uniqueness of Our Conduct
2) The Visibility of Our Witness
3) The Certainty of Our Vindication
Text: 1 Peter 3:8-22
Jesus' life was both repulsive and attractive. Some hated how he lived so much they eventually killed him for it. Others loved how he lived so much they devoted their lives to him. Reality check: this is how it will be for faithful followers of Jesus Christ. Join us and find wisdom and encouragement in the example of Jesus.
1) Embrace Your Identity as an Alien
2) Social Order Is Critical to Human Flourishing
3) Holiness Is an Evangelistic Strategy
4) Imitate Jesus’ Example of Suffering
Text: 1 Peter 2:11-3:7
Feeling discouraged in your faith because others view you as odd or as an outsider? In this message, we'll take a look at how to handle rejection as a Christian and how to confidently move forward in our faith with Christ being set as the firm cornerstone in our life's foundation.
1) Personally - Not Measuring Up
2) Communally - Falling Short
3) Externally - Expecting Rejection
Text: 1 Peter 2:4-12
Marginalized by society, alienated in their relationships and threatened with a loss of socioeconomic standing, Christians are, and have always been, "misfits." In Part 2 of our series, "Alien," we'll take a look at an overlooked aspect to living as exiles: our Christian identity. Getting that right is a must, if we're going to engage the world around us the way Jesus wants us to.
1) Hope in the Right Direction
2) Conform to the Right Image
3) Thrive in the Right Place
4) Foster the Right Appetite
Text: 1 Peter 1:13-2:3
Marginalized by society, alienated in their relationships and threatened with a loss of socioeconomic standing, Christians are, and have always been, "misfits." One of Jesus' disciples, Peter, wrote to a group of churches embroiled in this struggle. His words are timely and much needed.
1) How the Future Gives Us Hope
2) How the Present Gives Us Joy
3) How the Past Gives Us Certainty
Text: 1 Peter 1:1-12
What do an affluent businesswoman, a teen-aged, drug-addicted prostitute and an ex-GI working on the manufacturing floor all have in common? They all need the gospel. They all get the gospel in different ways, and they all become part of the same church. Welcome to the mind-blowing work of God in Philippi.
1) The Gospel is for Everyone
2) There is No Greater Unifying Factor Than the Gospel
3) The Gospel Can’t Be Canned
Text: Acts 16:13-34
Haven't you ever wondered, “Why should I pray?” Does prayer simply makes us feel better or does it actually accomplish something? We’ll find answers to these questions and more, as we look at our church's value of prayerful dependence.
- Do I want to see the will of God accomplished?
- Pray with confidence in God’s will and with others who are living in alignment with God’s will.
Text: James 5:13-18
Forget Disney. Forget Bora Bora. Forget the Alps. When it comes to heaven on earth, the Church is the closest thing you'll find. Why?
"Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst" (1 Cor. 3:16)?
The Church is the dwelling place of God. There's simply no better soul-healing, heart-satisfying, truth-seeking community to be a part of.
1) The Moral Structure of Gospel-Community
2) The Family Nature of Gospel-Community
3) The Material Support of Gospel-Community
Text: Romans 12:9-13
Is the gospel message just the entrance into the Christian faith and then we move on to something else? Or is there more to it? The gospel is not only the starting point but it should also be central in our lives and the life of the church. How so? Join us, as we find out!
1) The Power of God
2) The Foolishness of God
3) The Worship of God
Text: 1 Corinthians 1:18-31
The Bible is no ordinary book. It's supernatural. The powerful word God spoke to create the universe, whose dimensions we still don't know, is unleashed when we engage with this extraordinary book. If you want to know what is core to Alliance Bible Church, it starts with this.
1) What We Believe About God’s Word
2) How We Feel About God’s Word
3) What We Do With God’s Word
Text: Psalm 119
The long road of the Christian life seems to be dotted with failures, accidents and people who seemingly bailed out altogether on their faith. What are we to make of these situations and, more importantly, how can we make it for the long haul in our faith?
1) Practical Perseverance Remembers
2) Practical Perseverance Remains
3) Practical Perseverance Renders Mercy
Text: Jude 17-23
In the gospels, when people had a life-changing encounter with Jesus, they couldn't keep quiet about it. It's time for us to start blabbing about the gospel more than we do. In this message, we'll see even Jesus endorses such an action.
The sower is an evangelist scattering the seed of the Word into places where no seed has been scattered.
1) We Scatter Indiscriminately
2) We Are Realistic About the Opposition
3) We Scatter SEED
4) We Sleep Well
Text: Mark 4:1-20
"I am a woman trapped in a man's body." This is a statement heard often today. The underlying assumption is striking: my desires and feelings are right and my body is wrong. Why is that the case? Why couldn't the body be right and the feelings wrong? Welcome to the world of "expressive individualism," where personal desires are good and need to be listened to and satisfied.
1) Where Feelings Come From
2) How to Train Our Feelings
Text: Mark 7:21-23; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:9b-18; Isaiah 26:3; Psalm 42:5-6; Luke 5:15-16
As Christians, we live in a world filled with new challenges around every corner. How can one even hope to navigate this complex world and still enjoy life? We’ll explore this question and more as we look at our call to “walk by the Spirit.”
1) Motivation
2) Direction
3) Action
4) Production
5) Cooperation
Text: Galatians 5:16-26
The world is filled with suffering, from abuse to illnesses to death. How are we to respond in the midst of it? Is there any hope? In this message, we will look at the connection between suffering and God's justice, and what that means on this side of heaven.
In our suffering, we can cry out to God while looking forward to His justice.
3 Points:
1) The People of God Suffer
2) The People of God Lament
3) The People of God Praise
Text: Psalm 137
The phrase "church discipline" is provocative. It sounds gnarly, even unpleasant. But when rightly understood, it serves a good purpose: to help us image Christ to the world. Join us to learn more!
1) The Texts
2) The Takeaways
Text: Selected Scriptures
We can be members of all sorts of things: food clubs, country clubs, bowling leagues, co-ops and online service providers. You can also be a member of a church. But the nature of that membership is very different from all others, and more important! Come discover the untold story of church membership.
1) What is a church member?
2) Is a church member universal or local?
3) What is a church member called to?
4) What is the process for becoming a church member?
5) Personal takeaways
Text: Selected Scriptures
What is this bizarre practice of dunking human beings under water? Where did it come from? Why do we do it? You might be surprised to learn it's more important and foundational to the Christian life than most have realized.
Baptism:
1) Who is it for?
2) Why do we do it?
3) Answering two key questions
Text: Selected Scriptures
Almost any athlete has heard their coach repeat the old sports adage, “You practice how you play.” In this message, we are going to look at some of the basic practices that Christians are invited to adopt that can radically change how their faith plays out in life.
1) Corporate Spiritual Disciplines
2) Individual Spiritual Disciplines
Text: Philippians 2:12-18
In a world consistently over-promising and under-delivering when it comes to unity, we may wonder if unity with others is even possible. In this message, we’ll look at the striking picture of unity among the people of God that the Bible paints. Which will leave us asking, "How do we get to experience real and lasting unity?" Join us, as we dive into these questions and more.
1) Real unity is as good as it looks.
2) Because it comes from the presence of God.
Text: Psalm 133
What was the purpose of the death of Christ? What did it accomplish? How should that influence how the body of Christ relates to one another? All throughout the New Testament, we have these "one anothers." We will look at what those mean in light of the cross.
Since Christ has loved us, we are to love one another.
3 ways:1) Encourage
2) Confess
3) Forgive
Text: John 13:34-35
Worldviews are like glass lenses. You see everything through them without often noticing it. Many of us need a new prescription. Join us for this message and we'll give you a new way to see the world.
The overarching shape of the Bible's storyline and the structure for a biblical worldview is simple. It can be summed up in four words:
1) Creation
2) Fall
3) Redemption
4) Restoration
Text: Selected Scriptures
Who is the only one knowledgable enough, wise enough and skillful enough to reveal God to you? Answer: God. And He's done so through the Bible. Yes, the Bible is a big deal.
Scripture:
1) Origin
2) Usefulness
3) Outcome
Text: 2 Timothy 3:16-17
The term "Christian" has more definitions than the number of championships the Green Bay Packers have won. The confusion is understandable. But if there's one topic that needs crystal-clear clarity, it's this.
There are three statements, three attitudes, three heart postures we need to be true of us, if we’re going to have the assurance we are genuine Christians:
1) "There's something wrong with me."
2) "I can't fix this... but I know who can."
3) "I'm not the same."
Text: Luke 7
How would you sum up the central message of Christianity? How important should that be for us? What bearing does it have on your daily life? Join us as we explore what the Scriptures have to say about it!
1) The Heart of the Gospel
2) The Proclamation of the Gospel
3) The Fruit of the Gospel
Text: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
Life in this world will leave you battered and bruised, but what awaits the follower of Jesus is nothing short of stunning. Heaven, the new earth, will be a place of healing, constancy, variety, and abundance. Best of all, what awaits us is the full experience of the unfiltered presence of God. It will be victorious!
Three Objects That Dominate the Landscape of the Heavenly City:
1. The River
2. The Tree
3. The Throne
Text: Revelation 22
Heaven. Creation renewed. The end of sorrow. Permanent security. God's people made holy. God with us. There's nothing better to think about!
Five Aspects to the New Heavens and the New Earth:
1. The Creation Renewed
2. The End of Sorrow
3. Permanent Security
4. The Holiness of God's People
5. God with Us
Text: Revelation 21
If your 10 year-old son, grandson, nephew, or boy in your Sunday School class came up to you and asked, "What does it mean to be a man," how would you respond? If your 10 year-old daughter, granddaughter, niece, or girl in your Sunday School class came up to you and asked, "What does it mean to be a woman," how would you respond? In a world of gender confusion, these are important questions.
- Human beings are made in the image and likeness of God.
- Male and female are identity markers.
- Men and women are called to contribute to the creation mandates.
- Men and women must attach dignity to the right things.
- Men and women have distinct roles.
- Be aware of the temptation to sex role reversals.
- Guard against the battle of the sexes.
- Men must obediently embrace their God-ordained role of leading for God.
- Women must obediently embrace their God-ordained role of helping for God.
- Men and women must keep in mind their primary life purpose.
Text: Genesis 1-3
What comes to your mind when you think of spiritual gifts? Perhaps something mystical, pointless or maybe even divisive? This week, let’s take a look at what the Word of God has to say on this issue and set the record straight when it comes to spiritual gifts and their use.
- Prophecy
- Service
- Teaching
- Exhorting
- Contributing
- Leading
- Mercy
Text: Romans 12:3-8
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad" (2 Corinthians 5:10). Are you ready? Let's get ready.
- We are justified by faith alone, but we are given heavenly rewards according to our works.
- Our works will be evidence confirming the genuineness of our faith.
Text: Revelation 20
Jesus is coming back! And when He does, He'll do so in judgment and salvation. Did you know He's given us work to do to prepare for His arrival? We'll consider that in this message.
God’s Judgment Is Cause for…
1. Praise
2. Preparation
3. Indebted Gratitude
Text: Revelation 19
In this message, we'll have the opportunity to reach down deep into our pockets and pull out what we really believe about giving. As we explore the basics of financial giving, we'll come away with a fresh perspective on this "Too Hot to Handle" topic.
- What Is the Right Context for Giving?
- What Is the Right Measurement With Giving?
Text: Luke 21:1-4
Jesus' death and resurrection creates the shape of the normal Christian life. Your life is a series of hundreds of mini-deaths followed by hundreds of mini-resurrections. When your outlook on life is shaped by this, amazing things begin to happen. Join us for our Easter Celebration and you'll discover the power of living the resurrection.
1) Jesus' Death and Resurrection Is Something We Believe and Mimic
2) Mimicking Jesus' Death Normalizes Suffering
3) Mimicking Jesus’ Death Helps Us Know Christ in a Deeper Way
4) Look Through a Resurrection Lens
Text: Philippians 3:7-11
Christians need multiple exposures to the gospel. It was the apostle Paul's practice to do this. So will we. Join us this Good Friday, as we spend time reminding ourselves of the good news of Jesus Christ.
1) Who Made Us?
2) What Is Our Problem?
3) What Is the Solution?
4) How Do We Get Included in the Solution?
Text: Selected Scriptures
Worldliness is whatever makes wickedness look normal and righteousness look strange. This is the core character trait of Babylon. She exists in every nation and is a threat to each believer. God's call to His people this week is, "Come out of her! Come out of Babylon!" We'll explore how we do that in this message.
- X-Ray Vision
- Wealth Management
- Wet Suit
Text: Revelation 18
Appearances can be deceiving and we can be gullible. Jesus knows this and helps us see past the alluring cosmetics of idolatry to the spiritual reality underneath. Revelation 17 contains timely teaching for Christians in the 21st century.
- The Allure of Idolatry
- The Self-Destruction of Idolatry
- The Hope in a World of Idolatry
Text: Revelation 17
The Scriptures are repetitive when it comes to their insistence on God being a judge. But God's judgment is measured, precise and filled with truth we need to see, know and believe. We'll examine a number of implications of God's judgment, as we consider Revelation 15-16.
- What God’s Judgments Do for Humanity
- What God’s Judgments Say about God
Text: Revelation 15-16
Does what you do matter to God? How about as it pertains to your sexuality? In this message, we will look at how the Scriptures address this important topic and how it should shape our own identity.
- The Foundation
- The Distortion
- The Redemption
Text: Romans 1:18-32
Living and working around the self-proclaimed “Beer Capital of the World" presents Christians with unique questions and challenges. In this message, we'll take a look at how Christians can deal with the issue of drinking.
- Is a Christian Allowed to Drink?
- How Do We Drink to the Glory of God?
- What Does This Look Like?
Text: 1 Corinthians 10:23 - 11:1
At 80 years of age, the renowned preacher David Martyn Lloyd-Jones was asked a final question: “What parting word have you for the secular man or woman who does not take Jesus Christ seriously?” To which the man of God replied; “Flee from the wrath to come and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ." This is the somber and hopeful message of Revelation 14.
- We are prone to placing a high-gloss veneer over sin.
- Diminishing the punishment diminishes the cross of Christ.
- Warning of God's judgment calls for fearing Him not arguing with Him.
- Does your life look like you're God's property?
- Our loudest praise claims the high ground.
Text: Revelation 14
What is the cause of the church's sufferings and difficulties? The Bible's answer is deep: the rage of Satan. But Satan also works through means. In this message, we'll peak behind the curtain to see how Satan's two henchmen, government (and its leaders) and false religion, work to oppose the church and what we can do about it.
- The Authority of Government and Its Leaders
- The Deception of False Religion
-
The Way Through It
-
Hold Onto Government With Biblical Appropriateness
- Always Prepare for Suffering
- Constantly Tune Your Powers of Biblical Discernment
- Trust the One Controlling the Unfolding Story
Text: Revelation 13
Commitment can be a challenging thing for some people. How about when it comes to the body of Christ? Is the gathering of the saints an option for Christians or something that God requires? Most importantly, what does the Scripture say? Join us and find out!
- Problem
- Privilege
- Purpose
Text: 1 Corinthians 12:12-26
You may think your life is mundane. But you would be wrong. In this message, the curtain will be pulled back and we'll get a leering look at a character who is hellbent on dethroning Jesus from your life. Will he succeed? Join us to discover the answer.
Three crucial truths we need if we're going persevere in hard times:
1. Remember you are in the midst of a cosmic conflict that is profoundly spiritual.
2. Remember you're spiritual well-being is more important than your physical well-being.
3. Remember the war is won through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Text: Revelation 12
Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble..." Christians are not immune to persecution. As Revelation recalibrates our expectations for life in this world, it teaches us to expect opposition. But it never ceases to insist on the ultimate victory of Jesus and his Church.
- Measuring the Temple
- Two Witnesses
- Applications
Text: Revelation 11
The book of Revelation clearly teaches the ongoing judgments of God on the world in the form of things like: war, civil strife, economic scarcity and death. Christians are not promised immunity from these. In fact, we've been given a mission to accomplish in spite of it. What is that mission? What will it be like? And how do we get the job done? Revelation 10 answers those questions.
The Christian Life in the Wilderness…
1) Keep Your Bearings
2) Be Courageous
3) Fulfill Your Commission
Text: Revelation 10
God brings about economic deterioration, the shaking of earthly power structures, the bitterness of suffering, and spiritual darkness as a wake-up call to rouse a complacent world. Don't hit the snooze button! Get up and pay attention.
Let’s get our heads around what God is saying to us by asking five basic questions:
- Who?
- What?
- When?
- Where?
- Why?
Text: Revelation 8:6 - 9:21
Many of us are familiar with the everyday struggles, temptations and joys of social media. But in this message, let’s take a look at what the Scriptures have to say about our words and ways we use these platforms.
- Truth vs. Lies
- Righteous Anger vs. Unrighteous Anger
- Stealing vs. Hard Work
- Rotten vs. Wholesome Talk
- Bitterness vs. Compassion
Text: Ephesians 4:17-32
How has gossip impacted your life? What do you think the opposite of gossip is? Join us to find out!
- What Is Gossip?
- What Is Our Identity?
- What Is Our Purpose?
Text: Ephesians 4:29
Modern culture tells us Christmas is supposed to be filled with "chestnuts roasting on an open fire" and "Jack Frost nipping at your nose." Reminders to get into the "Christmas spirit" are everywhere. But the real Christmas story tells us it's OK not to be OK at Christmas. But in the midst of the tears, the real Christmas story pokes through our sadness with profound hope.
1) The Untold Story of Christmas
2) The Unexpressed Emotion of Christmas
3) The Future Looking Hope of Christmas
Text: Matthew 2:1-23
Christmas is a musical time of the year both culturally and biblically. Join us as we peer into the song of a lesser known character of Christmas: Simeon. We'll take a look at how this relatable figure experiences Christmas the way God intends us to.
Christmas is a time for...
1) Spiritual Reformation
2) Movement of the Spirit
3) Consolation
Text: Luke 2:25-32
There is much enjoyment to be found in listening to Christmas tunes like "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" or "White Christmas." But nothing compares to the songs of the Christmas story in the Bible. This week, we'll look at the song of the angels' as we make easy to understand two words often heard this time of the year: peace and glory.
1) Peace
2) Glory
Text: Luke 2:14
During the Christmas season many of us enjoy listening to our favorite holiday classics: "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas," "Silver Bells" or "White Christmas." But did you know the Christmas story in the Bible contains some of the greatest hits of all time? This week, we'll look at the Christmas song of a teenager who wonderfully exemplifies the heart of a true worshiper.
The Heart of a Worshiper Is...
1) Steeped in Scripture
2) Overjoyed in the Act of Glorifying God
3) Captivated With the Nature of the Gift
Text: Luke 1:46-55
Why is there much division in the world? Why is there division in the church? Are our eyes fixed on the external rather than the internal? What changes that? Join us to find out!
- All of God's People Are Adopted Into His Family
- Your Identity Is in Christ
- Everyone Has Equal Access to God
- God Doesn't Play Favorites
- You Are United to One Another
Text: Galatians 3:15-29
There's so much about our world that is broken. It weighs down the heart. But God has arranged things so that prayer makes a difference. Join us as we ponder the place of prayer in bringing about the establishment of God's kingdom.
- God Hears Prayer
- God Invites Us to Pray His Kingdom Come
- God Has Arranged Things So That Prayer Makes a Difference
Text: Revelation 8:1-5
The 144,000, the great tribulation, seals on the foreheads - what does this all mean? It's a magnificent picture of the day all Christians look forward to when there will be no more cancer, no more war, no more sickness, no more death. Join us as we dream about the new heavens and the new earth.
- Does Chapter 7 Follow Chronologically From Chapter 6?
- Who Are the 144,000?
- What Is the Seal on the Foreheads of the Servants of God?
- Who Are the Great Multitude No One Can Count?
- What Is the Great Tribulation?
- What Is Our Great Reward?
Text: Revelation 7:1-17
What is your greatest desire? What occupies your thoughts? This reveals what you have set your hope on. In this message, we will look at Israel's demands, the ramifications that followed and how God worked it all for His glory!
- What Happens When Something Displeases Us?
- What Happens When Something Displeases God?
- What Difference Does It Make?
Text: 1 Samuel 8
A corrupt judge is one who looks the other way while the perpetrator gets away with it. God is not a corrupt judge. This is both good news and bad news, but it's news we have to face honestly if we're going to withstand the day of judgment which looms on the horizon.
- This Is My Father’s World
- This World Stands Under His Judgment
- For Those With Eyes to See, Every Instance of Judgment Is a Prefiguring of Ultimate Judgment
- That Final Judgment Is Incontestable and Irreversible
- Our Only Hope Is the Lamb of God
Text: Revelation 6:9-17
It seems like Christians make a big deal about sex and marriage, but does it really matter? In this message, let’s take a look at why God cares who you sleep with, marry and what all of that means for your heart.
- The Boundary of Marriage
- The Boundary of Sex
Text: Hebrews 13:1-6
Revelation is a strange book. It’s full of angels and demons and lions and lambs and horses and dragons... "and ghoulies and ghosties and long-leggedy beasties and things that go bump in the night." In this message, things start to get a little bizarre as we study, "The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse."
- Christians ought to refrain from making end-of-the-world predictions.
- The "four horsemen" are riding forth, will keep riding forth and have been riding forth for two thousand years.
- Let every scene of conquest, every description of war and scarcity, every gruesome picture of death, be a warning to us of greater judgment.
- Recognize and rest in the fact that all things are under God’s sovereign control.
Text: Revelation 6:1-8
If you're a Christian whose love for Christ has grown stale, or a Christian struggling with some habitual sin, or a Christian trying to sort out true from false teaching, what do you do? Answer: See God and the Lamb in all their majesty and glory and brilliance, and then bow the knee and worship.
- Something to See
- Something to Do
- Something to Aspire to
Text: Revelation 4-5
Reputations can be misleading. They don't always capture the truth. The same thing can happen with churches. We'll take a close look at a church in Revelation 3 that had a reputation for being alive, but was actually asleep. Jesus' warning to them is a great mercy to us.
"A Reality Check for Church Attenders" (3:1-6)
1. The Rebuke (3:1)
2. The Remedy (3:2-3a)
3. The Reward (3:5)
Text: Revelation 2-3
In the hyper-tense climate of American politics, one thing seems very certain... we won’t all “just get along.” But what about the church? When followers of Jesus disagree, shouldn’t something be different? Simply put, YES! Join us for this message to find out, “How to love Christians with different politics.”
- Be Grounded in the Truth of What Is Right and Wrong
- Keep a Corporate Perspective of the Real Hope
- Exercise Self-Control
Text: Romans 13:8-14
There is much talk today about racism, which has caused much division in our nation and in churches. What is racism? More importantly, what does the bible have to say about it? Join us as we explore it together!
- Making Distinctions Makes You the Judge
- You Fulfill the Law by Loving Your Neighbor
- God Is the Lawgiver and Judge
Text: James 2:1-13
In "A Christmas Carol," Ebenezer Scrooge required three visits from three separate spirits in order for him to see his own, personal reality from a different perspective. This is what the book of Revelation does for us. Join us as we begin our journey through the Apocalypse.
Two Points of Application:
1. The Picture of Jesus
2. The Priority of Jesus
Text: Revelation 1:1-20
Why do people get baptized and take communion? Who are the proper recipients of them? Is there any significance to these ordinances? Many questions surround baptism and communion. We will look to see what the Scriptures say about them in Part 15, and the final message, of the series, "Theological Bootcamp!"
- What It Is
- Who Is It for
- Why Do We Do It
Text: Matthew 28:18-20, Luke 22:14-20, Romans 6:1-4, 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 & 11:17-34
The Church isn't a human engineered institution. It's a God-created, supernatural reality. If you're a Christian, this message will awaken you to the fact you're part of something more significant and profound than the idea of "church attendance" can ever capture. Join us for Part 14 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp."
- Aspects to the Church
- Images of the Church
- Mission of the Church
Text: Selected Scriptures
Who is the Holy Spirit and what does the Holy Spirit do? For some, the Spirit is kept at arm’s length out of uncertainty. For others, the Spirit becomes the focal point of the entire Christian life. This message, Part 13 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp," will serve as a helpful starting point in our growth in the knowledge of the tripersonal God.
- Who Is the Holy Spirit?
- What Does the Holy Spirit Do?
- Two Overlooked Questions
Text: John 14:15-17, 25-26; 16:7-15
How do we change? We all know that change doesn’t come easily for anyone, Christians included. What a relief it is to discover that God hasn’t left His followers to figure out this challenge on their own. In this message, we’ll take a look at how God has provided a way for Christians to experience authentic change. We hope you’ll join us for Part 12 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp," as we take a deep dive into this issue of change!
- God’s Power Makes It Possible
- God Provides a Process
- God Provides for Our Motivations
Text: 2 Peter 1:3-11
All human beings possess an inescapable sense that if we were to be examined, we would be rejected. This sense is right because God tells us "no one is righteous." If you want to shed this eerie feeling, you are longing for justification. We'll take a deep dive into it in Part 11 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp."
Justification:
1. Why We Need It
2. What It Is
3. How to Get It
Text: Romans 3:21-26
Hell and heaven have taken a backseat. Distorted notions of God's love have eradicated hell and our affluent, comfortable and convenient society have made heaven only marginally better than what we have now. It's time to rediscover the biblical teaching on eternity. Let's unpack this together in Part 10 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp."
Text: 2 Thessalonians 1:3-10; Revelation 21:1-4
Jesus is coming back. That is a sure thing. But He will come like a thief in the night. Are you ready? Join us as we consider these things in Part 9 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp."
Two settings to use the teaching on the return of Christ:
1. Comfort
2. Challenge
Text: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11
The dwelling place of God is paradise. We aren't experiencing that at the moment. Why? Because we've been banished from His presence. How do we get back in? Will we get back in? Join us for Part 8 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp," to find out!
Access to God…
1. What Inhibits Access
2. The Means of Access
3. The Outcome of Access
Text: Leviticus 16:1-34
People stare at beauty in art or nature for hours without giving a thought to, “what I’m getting out of this.” How much more ought we be able to stare at the beauty, majesty, grace and goodness of Christ, without giving a second thought to how He serves my well-being. Join us as we consider this in Part 7 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp"
- The Humanity of Christ
- The Deity of Christ
- Cur Deus Homo? (Why a God Man?)
Text: John 1:1-5; 14-18
Sin thrives in the dark. It hides behind masks of subtle, intricately woven lies. In Part 6 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp," we’ll look at three of those lies and how a Christian can unmask them.
- The Reality of Sin
- The Severity of Sin
- The Consequences of Sin
Text: Genesis 3 & Romans 1
God is love. Love is god. Which statement is true? What difference does it make? In Part 5 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp," come discover the enormity of God’s love. It’s deeper than you ever thought possible.
- Five Senses of God’s Love
- Correcting Christian Clichés
- God’s Love in Jesus
Text: Selected Scriptures
In Part 4 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp," we'll be looking at Scripture passages that don't get a lot of attention in 21st century America. But they are in the Bible for a reason. They tell us about God - the only God there is.
The Holiness of God:
1. The Overwhelming Nature of It
2. The Unyielding Power of It
3. The Surprising Origin of It
Text: Leviticus 10:1-3; 2 Samuel 6:1-8; Acts 5:1-11; 1 Corinthians 11:27-32; Hebrews 10:26-31
What makes the God of the Bible different from all other gods? Isaiah makes it clear that God is sovereign over all things. What is the sovereignty of God and why does it matter? Join us in Part 3 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp," as we explore this together!
- The Foolishness of False gods
- The True God Sustains
- The True God Is in Control
Text: Isaiah 46
"The glory of God" is a phrase heard often within Christian circles. But what exactly does that mean? It's definition is profound and it is a game-changer for the Christian life. Join us in Part 2 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp."
- What Is Meant by "the Glory of God?"
- Three Camera Angles on "the Glory of God"
Text: Genesis 1; Isaiah 43:7; John 11:1-6; John 17:1-5; 20-26
In any crisis, candy won't sustain you, but meat and potatoes will. In Part 1 of the series, "Theological Bootcamp," we'll do a deep dive into God's disclosure of Himself in nature, Scripture and Jesus. Welcome to "meat and potatoes" Christianity.
- The Eloquence of Nature
- The Necessity of Scripture
- The Sweetness of Jesus
Text: Psalm 19
Is God at the center of our perspective on the ever changing future? Learn how to seek opportunity and have a faith filled response while fulfilling the mission of God with your life.
- The Opportunity
- The Response of Unbelief
- The Response of Faith
Text: Numbers 13:25-14:10
Jesus' timing, diagnosis and solution to our problems will absolutely confound us. But if He is truly the Lord of your life, you need to see how He works. We'll take a close look at that in this message.
Solving Your Problems…
1. The Timetable
2. The Correct Diagnosis
3. The Desired Result
Text: Mark 5:21-43
Do you believe personal, supernatural evil exists? What do you think is the best way to deal with it? In this message, we'll ponder the nature of it and the surprising way to defeat it.
- The Power Behind Evil
- How Evil Works in a Life
- How to Defeat It
Text: Mark 5:1-20
Is a "disciple" different than a "Christian?" Some people think so, but that's not what the Scriptures teach. If you claim to be a Christian, you are called to be a disciple. In this message, we'll look at a story that fleshes out characteristics of a true disciple.
Characteristics of a true Jesus-follower entail a...
- Plucky Pursuit of Christ
- Confrontation of the Deepest Problem
- Dependence on the Mercy of Christ
Text: Mark 2:1-12
Fear. We feel it every day. It wreaks havoc on our lives and causes us to miss out on incredible opportunities to advance God's mission in the world. Let's eradicate it.
- Two Reasons We Fear
- What Fear Leads to
- What to Do About It
Text: Matthew 14:22-33
Scarcity is scary. How should a Christian respond when supplies are low and tensions are high?
A Different Kind of Response to the Fear of Not Having Enough
1. What That Response Is
2. Why It Matters
3. How It Happens
Text: Matthew 14:13-21
By the time world history comes to an end, Jesus won't be the only one who experiences a resurrection. Christians will too! Easter sets the stage for life after death.
- What It Will Be Like
- Who Makes It Happen
- How to Receive It
Text: 1 Corinthians 15:20-23; 35-44a
You are cursed! Why? By what? How do I get out of it? It's a harsh reality check, but it has an amazing ending.
- The Sinfulness of Sin
- The Inadequacy of Good Works
- Jesus, Our Saving Substitute
Text: Galatians 3:10-14
Tragedy on a scale like what we're seeing these days possesses the power to concentrate the mind. In this message, we will contemplate the following ideas:
- Death's Invisibility
- Death's Origins
- Death's Death
You'll never experience a radical transformation of your life until you understand and treat Jesus as King. In this message, we'll construct a picture of what it looks like to crown Him King.
- Limit the “Why"-ning
- Yours, Mine, and Ours - or Just Jesus’
- “Ain’t No Rock Gonna Take My Place"
Text: Luke 19:28-40
OK, ABC, here's one thing I know: we all are a party waiting to happen! By the time this storm blows over, the walls in our homes will need new paint jobs due to the clawing they've received. So in this message, we're looking at a text that demonstrates even Jesus is no party-pooper, but rather, he's a party waiting to happen.
- What He Offers
- How He Makes It Possible
- How We Can Receive It
Text: John 2:1-12
An encounter with Jesus rarely generated a moderate response. He either made people so angry they wanted to kill him, or he electrified them so much they wanted to follow him. In this message, we'll look at one of Jesus' teachings that is a quintessential example of this. And the topic? Control. Who is in the "driver's seat?"
- Tenants and the Owner
- Tenants and the Servants
- Tenants and the Son
- Jesus’ Verdict
Text: Matthew 21:33-45
Would you be open to the possibility that real Christianity is very different from religion? Join us, as we take a close look at those differences. Are you a Christian? Or just religious?
Characteristics of Religion:
1. Religion Objects to "Outsiders" Receiving God's Grace
2. Religion Discourages Ministry to "Outsiders"
3. Religion Resists Integration With "Outsiders"
4. Religion Promotes Superiority Complexes
5. Religion Paradoxically Operates With "Sinful Morality"
Characteristics of True Christianity:
1. Humility
2. Repent for Something Besides Sins
3. Acceptance Based on Grace
Text: Luke 15:11-32
Receiving or showing mercy just isn't comfortable. Mercy, with all of its baggage, can leave us wondering how we should even go about starting this difficult journey. In this message, we'll look at the starting point of mercy and the surprisingly good news it holds for everyone.
- Mercy Sees With Compassion
- Mercy Isn't Cowardly
- Mercy Is Costly
Text: Luke 10:25-37
Mercy may be one of the hardest things to show to someone when they have wronged you. Perhaps even more difficult is when it happens within the local church. Can we actually forgive our brother and sister from the heart? In this message, we will look at the importance of forgiveness and its relationship to the cross.
- How Often Should I Forgive?
- Why Should I Forgive?
- What Happens If I Don't Forgive?
Text: Matthew 18:21-35
Earthly kingdoms always come through coercion and force. But the kingdom of God enters in a drastically different way. In this message, we'll think about how the kingdom of God comes and signs it's penetrated your heart.
The Kingdom of God
1. How It Comes
2. Signs It's Penetrated Your Heart
Text: Matthew 13:1-9; 18-23
Has Jesus peaked your curiosity? No matter your past or present, if you're interested, we'd like to offer you a front row seat to hear about the man named Jesus.
- The Seeker and His Salvation
- The Seekers and Their Sin
Text: Luke 19:1-10
In this short communion devotional, Brian Dainsberg, Lead Pastor, gives a clear explanation of what the Christian gospel is... and what it isn't.
Psychologist and speaker, Dr. Lee Hildebrand, offers key principles and strategies to help you relate to your wife spiritually, emotionally and romantically, which are rooted in the book of Ephesians. Learn how to date your wife holistically and maintain your marriage in such a way that is vibrant, fulfilling and God-honoring.
This seminar will define the key biblical principles that transform the way we think about money as Christians. This seminar is not about the numbers or specific financial planning, but rather about mindset. When we see money like God does, we can begin to make decisions about money that make sense both spiritually and financially.
Movie makers run wild with demonic-inspired films and we know Jesus had his run-ins with demons. How does all of that work today? Is it real? If so, how do we engage in this battle?
There are a variety of good examples of fatherhood in Scripture, but none is more deliberate and focused than the Father's interaction with His Son in Mark 1:10-11. As Christian dads, how do we model God the Father in identifying and relating to our own children? We have a road map and AJ's hope is that we will find encouragement together as we learn what our kids need from us.
Underneath the routines of our lives, there lives a thirst that continually gnaws at us. It causes us to say, "If only... then I could be happy." It's a minefield. We'll explore how to walk through it.
Spiritual Thirst...
1. What It Is
2. How Not to Quench It
3. How to Quench It
Text: John 4:1-26
Resentment eats away at all of us at some point. Why? And what do we do about it? The solution is much bigger and deeper than you think.
- A Truth to Embrace
- A Motto to Live by
- A "Pocket" to Live In
Text: John 3:22-30
Misunderstanding abounds surrounding Jesus' term "born again." What is it? What does it do? Is it necessary? In this message, we'll discover it's the one thing we can't live without.
The New Birth:
1. Who Needs It
2. What It Does
3. How It Happens
4. What It Takes to Get It
Text: John 3:1-21
How do you fight temptation? It's possible to win, but at the end of your life, the bad will still outweigh the good. Where's the hope? Find out - it's amazing.
- The Inevitability of Temptation
- The Strategies of the Devil
- How to Defeat It
Text: Matthew 4:1-11
Is your life producing fruit? New Year's brings us opportunities to reset and do better. How should we best focus our efforts?
- Do I Have a Relationship With God?
- Am I Bearing Fruit?
- How Do I Abide in Christ?
Text: John 15:1-8
International peace would be great. Psychological peace would be amazing. But there's an even deeper peace we all need: peace with God. In this special Christmas Eve message, we'll explore how we can get the peace we really need.
- Peace on Earth - What It Isn't
- Peace on Earth - What It Is
Text: Luke 2:10-14
When the Bible takes us behind the curtain of the Christmas story, we see that the coming of Jesus is described as a rescue of epic proportions. As we think about this unexpected rescue, it offers us something different which just might rock your Christmas season.
Text: Isaiah 9:1-7
Christmas, the arrival of the Messiah, is fundamentally about hope. Hope for change; change in our lives, relationships, and circumstances. But how does this happen? We'll explore that in this message.
- Value the Ordinary
- Believe the Extraordinary
- Share in a Supreme Delight
Text: Isaiah 11:1-10
There is no shortage of literature on self-identity. But God's Word addresses this topic in a way that would appear backwards to most gurus in this field. Join us in listening to this message if you want a radical take on this topic.
- True Greatness and Your View of Yourself
- True Greatness and Your View of Jesus
- How We Can Participate in True Greatness
Text: John 1:19-34
Even though you think you know Jesus, He will, at times, do things and say things that don't make sense. Confounding as He may be, He's still worth trusting and treasuring.
Jesus...
1. Confounds Those Who Know Him Best
2. Humbly Serves Those He Loves
3. Is to Be Trusted and Treasured
Text: Luke 2:40-52
Wherever our worship is directed to, reveals who or what our true king is. Matthew points us to the true King and why we have reason to worship Him.
- What Is False Worship
- What Is True Worship
- Why Jesus Deserves Our Worship
Text: Matthew 2:1-12
In a world full of skepticism, trust can be really hard. In this message, find out what trust in the face of the impossible looks like in everyday life.
Text: Luke 1:26-38
- Submission
- Action
- Celebration
Profound change in behavior always comes through a change in what we love most. This week we start our journey through the New Testament with one goal: to become obsessed with Jesus.
Text: Matthew 1:1-17
The Genealogy of Jesus Points to Him As...
1. The Ultimate Hero
2. The Giver of Grace
3. The Source of Significance
What we do with our money makes comments about God. Malachi will teach us about the evil of stinginess and the unexpected fuel for lavish generosity.
Text: Malachi 3:6-12
- The Evil of Stinginess
- Why We're Stingy
- What to Do About It
What does the ideal church gathering look like? In this message, we'll explore what Nehemiah 8 has to say about that question. It could be said there are three signs of spiritual renewal present in this text.
In an Ideal Church Gathering, We Will Demonstrate...
1. An Appetite for the Word of God
2. Some Grieving
3. Lots of Rejoicing
If you live long enough, you will experience a season of brokenness. Everyone does at some point. Although everyone's response may look different, each response is shaped by one key factor. In this message, learn about the one factor that shapes our response in the midst of life's brokenness.
If you’ve ever had the sense that God seems hidden from you, then you need to hear the story of Esther. If you’ve ever thought that the world at large or your own personal world is spinning out of control, then you need to hear the story of Esther. If you’ve ever felt that you’ve made too many mistakes for God to do anything with you or for you, then you need to hear the story of Esther.
- The Story
- What the Story Teaches Us
We're excited to have Michael Anthony, author of A Call For Courage, share with us what God's Word has to say about the vital topic of anger. Michael is a pastor and author and has been on CNN, Fox News, New York Times and more.
Michael lives with the mission to help people live courageously in all areas of life. Michael will be speaking about one of those areas we need to courageously address - how to deal with anger.
Today we're saying "thank you" and celebrating what God has done in the past. It is also an opportunity to talk about future dreams.
- Pastoral Residency
- Church Planting
- Theological Famine Relief
Christians are a temple of the Holy Spirit (see 1 Corinthians 3:16). And as such, we are always under construction. In this message, we'll consider three key components to being spiritually re-formed.
Three Key Components to Spiritual Reformation:
1. Choose Your Spiritual Advisors Wisely
2. Cling to the Word Vigorously
3. Interpret Hard Times Correctly
Text: Ezra 4:1-5; 5:1-5; 6:13-15
Against all odds, God builds His Church. He bends world history and stirs human hearts. He is an "Unstoppable God."He does this by:1. Bending World History
2. Drawing Exiles Close
3. Plundering the Enemy
Text: Ezra 1:1-11
What Christians believe and how God calls us to live is becoming foreign to our culture. How do we navigate these waters? God hasn't left us blind. His Word is a guide.
We're going to think about five principles for living as an exile.
As an Exile...
1. Contribute to the Common Good
2. Make Your Christian Identity Visible
3. Pray Through the Antagonism
4. Don't Put Your Trust in National Leaders
5. Look to the Resurrection
Talking about Jesus is rarely easy or comfortable to do, but it is important. In this message, we'll look at how to overcome the obstacles and prayerfully walk with God in this crucial area.
Text: Colossians 4:2-6
Most Christians desire to grow in holiness. We want to become more like Jesus. In order to do so, we have to talk about giving. Giving is part of our discipleship. In this message, we'll look at five practical principles from God's Word on the topic of giving.
- Giving Should Be a Regular, Planned Priority
- Giving Should Be Proportionate to Income
- Giving Should Alleviate Suffering - Especially That of Believers
- Giving Should Support the Spread of the Gospel
- Giving Should Support the Work of Your Local Church
Find out what happens when a scandalous passage from the Bible and today's cultural revolution collide. Listen in to the results as we see what it means to be Christlike in the struggles of everyday relationships in a modern world.
What is the evidence the Holy Spirit is present in a church? Is it philanthropy? A willingness to die for the movement? The ability to perform miracles? The apostle Paul answers, "No." The primary characteristic of the Holy Spirit's presence is love.
In this message, we'll explore v. 6: "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth."
3 Wrongs Christians Are Tempted to Rejoice In:
1. Entertainment
2. Matters of Sexuality
3. The Demise of a Rival
There are many more wrongs that believers can be tempted to rejoice in, but hopefully these three will help you think through other areas of your life where you might be tempted to rejoice in wrongdoing.
What is the evidence the Holy Spirit is present in a church? Is it philanthropy? A willingness to die for the movement? The ability to perform miracles? The apostle Paul answers, "No." The primary characteristic of the Holy Spirit's presence is love.
In this message, we're looking at one sentence in v. 4: "Love... does not envy."
- What Is Envy?
- Why It's Unloving
- How We Overcome It
What is the evidence the Holy Spirit is present in a church? Is it philanthropy? A willingness to die for the movement? The ability to perform miracles? The apostle Paul answers, "No." The primary characteristic of the Holy Spirit's presence is love.
In this message, we'll ponder together just the first sentence of v.4: Love is patient.
- What Patience Is
- The Evidence for It
- How It Thrives
What erodes your confidence? Our faith and life can be deeply effected by the ideas and philosophies we encounter every day. In this message, we'll take a look at that issue and the amazing help God has offered us.
Anxiousness... ever experience that before? It's very likely you have. We'll explore a popular passage of Scripture to see what counsel God offers us on this relevant topic.
- What Anxiety Is
- How to Combat Anxiety God's Way
- The Result of Combating Anxiety God's Way
Making progress in our Christian walk isn't easy. In this message, we'll explore four challenges every Christian faces and what we can do about them in order to move forward in our journey.
Four Challenges to Making Forward Progress in Our Walk with Christ and What to Do About Each of Them:
1. Craving Immediate Results
2. Avoiding Adversity
3. Skimming the Surface
4. Over-Complicating the Process
We're supposed to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. But the world is filled with wonderful things like sunsets, oceans, strawberries, and bacon! Am I wrong to enjoy golf, books, and Thai Curry as much as I do? And what about all the stuff we've made? Am I supposed to enjoy those things as well?
- Am I Supposed to Enjoy Golf, Books, and Thai Curry?
- What Are the Dangers of Enjoying Golf, Books, and Thai Curry?
- How Is the Christian Life Lived in a World of Golf, Books, and Thai Curry?
We're supposed to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. But the world is filled with wonderful things like sunsets, oceans, strawberries, and bacon! Am I wrong to enjoy golf, books, and Thai Curry as much as I do?
Four Roles the Material World Plays in Our Lives:
The Material World...
1. Helps Us Understand and Enjoy God
2. Shows Us How to Live Competently in God's World
3. Meets Our God-Defined Needs
4. Gives Us Experiences of God's Glory and Goodness
No one gets out of life alive. While not necessarily pleasant to think about, it is imperative we ponder death.
- Death's Invisibility
- Death's Commentary
- Death's Subservience
A big question for anything in life is: What’s the point? It’s a question all of us are continually asking. When that question goes unanswered, it leads to frustration, loss of motivation and failure to meet our hopes and expectations. In this message, we’ll take a look at answering that question in one of life’s most important arenas.
Grasping the What, How and Why of Christian Maturity:
1. How Does That Happen?
2. Why Does It Matter?
There is dictator potential in all of us, which is a provocative statement for sure. In this message from Daniel 3, we’ll discover the Nebuchadnezzar within each of us and what God has done about it.
- The Communal Pressure of Idolatry
- The Expulsive Power of a New Affection
What Christians believe and how we behave as Christ-followers is becoming foreign to the world we inhabit. Come think through some strategies for cultural engagement from Daniel 1.
Strategies for Cultural Engagement:
1. Don't Fight Every Battle
2. Maintain Your Distinctiveness
3. Remember: God's in Control of Who's in Control
Do you have a hope that can stand up to death? Most of us don't. Find how we can.
- The Cause of Hopelessness
- The Means of Hopefulness
We're used to people not coming through and not keeping their word to us. So in a world as messed as ours, it can be hard to believe there will ever be justice. In fact, we can become quietly, or not so quietly, doubtful that God is ever going to do anything about the evil we see every day. Learn about what's often behind those doubts and the clear cure for them.
If you want to see change in your life or the lives of those you love most, then you should care about conversion. But conversion isn't just a personal resolution to try harder next time. Conversion is revolutionary and always involves encountering the risen Christ.
Conversion...
1. The Mess It Creates
2. The Effect It Has
3. A Sign It's Needed
4. Who It's for
Many people believe the Bible is a collection of isolated stories disconnected from each other. Actually, the Bible is a single, unified story whose emphasis is about the good news of what God has done in and through Jesus Christ.
Humility and love are two of the most challenging attributes to demonstrate in our relationships with others. But they are attributes that help others come alive. Jesus exemplifies and empowers us to live like this. Discover how, as we study a passage from John 13.
- What Jesus Does
- What Jesus Tells us to Do
- How Jesus Helps us to Do It
Every human heart possesses a fatal flaw. Understanding what the flaw is and looking for the right kind of cure is critical for your emotional and spiritual well-being. Join us as we probe this important topic.
- The Fatal Flaw in Every Heart
- The By-Product of the Fatal Flaw in Every Heart
- The Supernatural Cure for Every Heart
Join us as we look at the call of the prophet Jeremiah and discover the promises God makes to him (and us) in the midst of a challenging world.
- God Equips the Called; He Doesn't Call the Already Equipped
- God Is Our Provider
- God Is a Willing Provider
- God Is Our Protector
- God Is Our Gospel
Does God discipline His people? Why would a loving God do this? Come ponder these questions as we look at the book of Joel.
- The Method of God's Discipline
- The Proper Response to God's Discipline
- The Ultimate Aim of God's Discipline
Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as yourself." What does that mean? We'll discover, studying the book of Jonah, that love is more compassionate and confrontational than we ever imagined.
- Grace and Love
- Truth and Love
- The Identity That Gives Birth to Both
Love is a messy, risky, amazing and painful business. Hear about one of the most scandalous love stories of all time and learn a valuable truth about the extraordinary love that’s offered to you! Join us as we study Hosea 1-3.
- Our Salvation
- Our Restoration
- Our Preparation
What will it take to hear Jesus say of you, "Well done, good and faithful servant?" We'll ponder that as we look at 2 Kings 18-20.
A Faithful Life...
1. Roots out Idolatry
2. Expects Adversity
3. Waits Expectantly
4. Stumbles Through Lapses
What does love look like? The prophet Isaiah describes it for us in vivid detail. Join us as we study Isaiah 53 and venture into the depths of how God loves us.
- The Reality of God's Love
- The Extent of God's Love
- A Response to God's Love
Is God a concept or a living reality in your life?
Come discover the difference as we study Isaiah 6.
- What It Means for God to Be Real
- What It Takes for God to Become Real
- What It Creates When God Is Real
What are you loyal to? Who has captured your attention? In life, our loyalties say a lot about what we really think is valuable; and the way we pursue them says even more. In this message, hear about how the gospel can reveal and align our loyalties in a whole new way.
The Bible is a superb counseling book. It offers more insight into our troubles than most think and it presents us with helpful solutions. All of this, from the Word of God. Join us as we explore the topic of depression from a biblical perspective.
The Stubborn Darkness of Depression...
1. How We Get into It
2. How We Get out of It
God desires us to know Him and for us to share ourselves with Him. He calls us His sons; He seeks relationship with us. This seminar explores some perspectives on how we can develop and grow intimacy in our relationship with Him.
"Real men do not have fear"; a common lie in our culture. This seminar explores the role of fear in our lives, both healthy and appropriate fears as well as unhealthy and destructive, dysfunctional and un-Godly fears. Such questions as "should I be afraid," "what do I do with this fear" and "where is God in this story" will be explored. Practical steps to address fear will be offered.
If we're being honest, too many of us Christians have one foot in the world and one foot following Jesus. We're on the fence. But God calls us to be decisive; to "go big or go home" in our Christian journey.
Two of the healthier practices you can cultivate in your walk with the Lord are: meditation and singing. The Psalms exhort us to engage in those. But how and why?
Meditation
1. The Definition
2. The Method
3. The Timing
4. The Results
Singing
1. Created to Sing
2. Commanded to Sing
3. Compelled to Sing
Their story... God's love for a mother and son, both lost, both prodigals in their own unique ways - and how God redeemed them and brought them home.
Dr. Christopher Yuan has taught the Bible at Moody Bible Institute (MBI) for more than ten years and his speaking ministry on faith and sexuality has reached five continents. He speaks at conferences, on college campuses and in churches. Christopher graduated from Moody Bible Institute in 2005, Wheaton College Graduate School in 2007 with a Master of Arts in Biblical Exegesis and received his doctorate of ministry in 2014 from Bethel Seminary.
Listen as Christopher shares his testimony, talks about a Christian response to the sensitive topic of homosexuality and answers questions.
To learn more, please see his website: https://christopheryuan.com
Some of us may be in for a grueling 2019. But God has given us wisdom in the book of Ecclesiastes that can help us make the most of life. This even involves encouragement to do your bucket list!
Four Wisdom "Nuggets" to Make the Most of Life:
1. Stop Pretending
2. Don't Fall for Gimmicks
3. Do Your Bucket List
4. Fear God
As a church, we've learned a lot from the Bible over the last year. As 2019 arrives, we each have the opportunity to ask the question, "What have we put into practice?" Hear about the Top 5 ways we can apply what we learned in 2018, so that 2019 isn't just another new year... it's a new you!
What is the story of Christmas really about? We know the basics. Bethlehem. Mary and Joseph. A stable. A manger. Shepherds. Angels.
But are we gripped with wonder at the Christmas story and what it tells us about the character and plan of God?
"It's the most... familiar time of the year." We know the story well, but our familiarity robs us of wonder. Join us as we take a closer look at the Epicenter of Christmas, Jesus, to see how he is THE One to satisfy your thirst.
We'll ponder together how Christmas shows us...
1. The Willingness of Christ
2. The Destructiveness of Christ
3. The Satisfaction of Christ
The wonder of Christmas isn't only found in what happened, but in who it happened to. Share in the wonder and surprise at God's choice in sharing His message of peace with the most unlikely of candidates.
Join us as we look at Luke 2:8-20.
The word "blessed" gets thrown around quite a bit in Christian circles. Through Mary's story, we're going to discover a whole different side to being blessed; a side many of us need to hear because the circumstances of our lives don't feel very blessed right now.
Join us as we look at Luke 1:39-56.
- The True Nature of Blessing
- What It Takes to Live as One Blessed
The word ‘idolatry’ may come across as an ancient, primitive idea, but it’s a much bigger problem for us modern people than anybody realizes. If left unchecked, it can wreak havoc on our lives. The good news is God’s Word offers solutions. We’ll explore that as we look at 1 Kings 11.
- The Root of Idolatry
- The "Fruit" of Idolatry
- The Treatment for Idolatry
Commencement addresses often communicate how much the world-changing efforts of the audience are needed. To be blunt: these addresses are often filled with flattery and nonsense. Solomon gives Israel a very different kind of commencement address... one where the emphasis is on how essential the life-changing knowledge and presence of God truly is. You're invited to partake as we study 1 Kings 8.
- The Hiddenness of God
- The Clarity of God
- The Narrow-Accessibility of God
- The Abundant Grace of God
We get a lot of advice in life about what we should do, who we should marry, where we should live and more. It can be hard to know what to do and who's advice we should listen to. In this message, we explore a biblical solution (Proverbs 3:5-6) for how we can have greater clarity amidst life's toughest decisions.
It doesn't matter what you've done. It doesn't matter how bad your track record is. God offers full forgiveness. This is amazing news! Let this be a balm to your soul.
- The Basis of Forgiveness
- The Precondition for Forgiveness
- The Results of Forgiveness
Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, knowing God is absolutely necessary for survival. Our text, 2 Samuel 7, is heavy in revealing what God is like, how he operates and for what purpose. Sometimes what we need most is a hefty dose of God.
- God's Humility
- God's Grace
- God's Sovereignty
- God's Glory
We need friendship... more than many of us realize. But our approach to this is often browsing the field of potential friends in order to find the “right one” for us. Maybe that’s backwards. The better way is: how can I be the kind of friend I’ve always wanted?
- The Importance of Friendship
- The Nature of Friendship
- How to Be the Kind of Friend You’ve Always Wanted
Most people can figure out how the David and Goliath story hits on the theme of courage. What most don't know is that courage doesn't come to us the way we think. There's more to this story than what we learned as kids!
- Missing Courage
- False Courage
- True Courage
Reckless Decisions Resist God’s Priorities.
Results:
1. Your Decision Was All About You.
2. You’re Okay, but Everyone Else Around You Is Hurt as a Result of Your Decisions.
3. Your Anger Is Disproportionate and Often Miss Directed.
- The Motivation of the Siren Voice
- The Reality of the Siren Voice
- The Power of the Siren Voice
Highly regarded as one of the pioneers of the men’s ministry movement in America, Steve Sonderman started one of the first men’s ministries in the country for the growing church population at Elmbrook Church in Brookfield, Wisconsin. His real passion is to see every local church have its own ministry to men. In 1994, he began the annual No Regrets Men’s Conference which today draws thousands of men to the event held at Elmbrook Church and across the country via webcast.
The Calling of God... 1. Why We Need It 2. How It Happens 3. What Proves Its Legitimacy
- Characteristics of an “Americanized” Church
- The Necessary Remedies for the “Americanized” Church
Prayer Is Ministry: 1. An Overlooked Aspect to Prayer 2. Why This Is a Game-Changer 3. An Encouragement to Pray
- The Need for Spiritual Friendship
- How Spiritual Friendship Is Created
- Signs of Spiritual Friendship
Four Evidences for Jesus' Claim That He Is the Messiah, the Son of God: 1. John the Baptist 2. His Miracles 3. God 4. Old Testament Scriptures
- The Fragility of Earthly Wealth
- The Power of Earthly Wealth
- The Route to Heavenly Wealth
- What Do the Terms Mean?
- How Did We Get There?
- Where Does God Fit into All of This?
- How Ought the Church and Christians Respond?
- Human Boasting Is the Real Enemy
- Reassurance Comes Through Obedient Risk-Taking
- Sometimes God Calls Us to Employ Unconventional Means in "the Fight"
- God Is Willing to Hand Us over to Our Idolatry
- God Is Above, Under, Behind and in Front of All Things
- God Metes out His Grace Through Unexpected People
How Does a Generation Cease to Follow Jesus? 1. Half-Hearted Discipleship 2. Blindness to Idolatry 3. The Gospel as Facts to Be Memorized Rather Than a Story to Rejoice In
- What is the point of being a Christian on mission?
- In what ways could you partner with what God is doing around the world?
The Battle for Rest: 1. The Precursors to Battle 2. The Tactics of Battle 3. The Victor of Battle
Christ’s Redemption Offers Us Life. What Do We Do with His Offer: 1. If You're Mad at God? 2. If You Don't Believe in God? 3. If You've Really Blown It?
4 Reasons the Resurrection Matters: 1. The Resurrection Confirms Jesus' Claims 2. The Resurrection Illuminates the Most Important Aspect of a Church 3. The Resurrection Means Our Deepest Problem Has Been Addressed 4. The Resurrection Foreshadows Restoration Is on the Other Side of Brokenness
- What the Cross Calls Husbands to
- How the Cross Can Help Churches
- How a Theology of the Cross Helps Victims and Sufferers
Three Life Arenas Where We Can Grow to Express Our Love for God: 1. Sunday Worship 2. Theological Discernment 3. Everyday Living
- What Does Holiness Look Like?
- What Is Our Struggle with Holiness?
- How Should We Respond?
- What the Tabernacle Conveyed
- Why We Need What It Conveyed
- How to Pursue What It Conveyed
Four Aspects to Wilderness Life: 1. How We Get There 2. What It's like 3. The Reason for It 4. How to Thrive There
- The Setting for a Spiritual Awakening
- The Substance of a Spiritual Awakening
- The Summons Included in a Spiritual Awakening
We cannot go through this broken life without enduring pain. Is it possible to experience joy in the midst of this?
Alliance Bible Church is pleased to bring you the dramatization, "Foolish Wiseman."
Ogion, a foolish and fearful fourth wiseman, finds unlikely friends and a treasure more wonderful that he could imagine!
Our special presentation concludes with a message of reflection on Christmas by Lead Pastor, Rev. Brian Dainsberg.
- The Agents of a Gospel Movement
- The Message of a Gospel Movement
- The Proper Responses to a Gospel Movement
- The Definition of God’s Providence
- The Biblical Foundations of God’s Providence
- The Applications of God’s Providence
- The Gospel and God’s Providence
Sometimes a Relationship with God Requires Some Wrestling. 1. The Reason for It 2. The Arena for It 3. The Desired Outcome of It 4. What It Takes to Win
- The Nature of Blessing
- Why We Want Blessing
- How We Try to Get Blessing
- What It REALLY Takes to Get Blessing
Faith is taking the next step, regardless of the outcome. - Why does this matter? - How can we live this way?
The Call of God 1. Why We Need It 2. What It Promises 3. What It Demands 4. How to Answer It
- The Necessity of Divine Judgment
- The Pain of Divine Judgment
- The Solution to Divine Judgment
- The Result of Divine Judgment
- Unfamiliarity with God's Word
- Believing a Lie About God
- Elevating a Good Thing Above God
- The Value of Human Life
- The Suitability of Male/Female Marriage
- The Inherent Nature of Human Dependency
- Finding Life the Way It Was Meant to Be
- Three Errors to Avoid (How Not to Live as a Christian Exile)
- Three Principles to Apply (How to Live as a Christian Exile)
Five Implications of This Biblical Worldview (CREATION-FALL-REDEMPTION-RESTORATION): 1. Persecution Needs to Be Embraced as Normal 2. Utopianism Is a Trap 3. Look for the Creational Good in Other Worldviews & Cultures 4. See Same-Sex Marriage Through the Lens of the Fall AND Redemption 5. Rest in the Certainty of the Future Restoration
How Does a Mature Follower of Christ Respond to Anxiety? God's Presence Redefines Our Response.
In Order to Cultivate Godly Emotions, We Need To: 1. Engage the Mind 2. Participate in Worship 3. Commit to Prayer 4. Be a Giver
We Need to Do Three Things: 1. Embrace the Prodding of Scripture 2. Fear and Obey God 3. Prepare for the Judgment to Come
How to Make Church Meaningless: 1. Come Thoughtlessly 2. Treat “It” Inconsiderately 3. Participate Selfishly
Ecclesiastes 2 1. The Experiments He Conducts 2. The Result He Discovers 3. The Answer We Need
Ecclesiastes 1 Confronts: 1. “I’m Here to Make a Difference in the World." 2. “I’m Here to Enjoy the Pleasures of the Day." 3. “I’m Here to Make Myself the Best Human Being Possible."
Our Relationships Should Reflect His Work. 1. What Does a Good Relationship Look Like? 2. What Is My Part in Creating It?
- Portrait of an Unhelpful Christian Life
- Portrait of a Beneficial Christian Life
- The Factor That Makes All the Difference
- The Foundation of Christian Conduct
- The Features of Christian Conduct
- The Fuel for Christian Conduct
- What to Look for in a Church Leader
- What to Expect from a Church Leader
- What Motivates a Church Leader
Two Patterns of Christian Practice We Need to Cultivate in Our Lives: 1. Bringing the Lost to Faith 2. Training the Saved for Godliness
- The Importance of Thinking About Death
- The Reason Death Exists
- The Hope Available in Death Defeated
- God's Way with Religious Rebels
- Religious Rebels' Way with God
- Jesus' Way with Religious Rebels
Learn About Our Changing Youth Culture and How We Can Take an Adoptive Approach and Be Involved in Their Lives!
- Who Religious People Avoid
- What Religious People Are Indifferent To
- How Religious People Are Formed
- How Religious People Can Be Transformed
Recognized as one of the "Lost Boys of Sudan," Jacob Atem shares with us from the books of Psalms and Matthew, and how he personally experienced Psalm 107:2.
Gospel access FOR & FROM all peoples. Gospel access can only be created from the OUTSIDE. Gospel access is sustained and multiplied from the INSIDE.
Our submission to God, regardless of the circumstances, always leads to greater vision.
- Identify the Hidden Belief
- Detect the Hidden Belief in Ourselves
- Destroy and Replace Our Hidden Belief
- What Is It That Sets the Church Apart from Other Institutions?
- What Is It the Church Should Offer That Other Institutions Don’t?
- How Satan Sees Suffering
- How God Sees Suffering
- How Job Sees Suffering
- How You Can See Suffering