University Lutheran Chapel: Recent Episodes
University Lutheran Chapel Ann Arbor
As the gospel continues to move throughout the early church, we see it reach the gentiles. A Roman centurion named Cornelius gets a vision of an angel. Peter gets a vision of some food. The Holy Spirit shows up, and now the gentiles are brought into God's people as well. We have a God who is in the business of drawing near to us!
Scripture Reading: Acts 10:1-16, 34-48
Digging Deeper Questions:
Who is someone that helped you grow in your faith?
Has there been a time where you felt clear on what God was calling you to do? How did you respond? How did it go?
Jesus is the God who comes to us. Where have you seen Jesus meet you?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Randy Duncan "The Gospel for the Persecutor" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nya Martinez on "Christ Be Magnified".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Saul wasn't looking for Jesus. Jesus was looking for Saul. When have you experienced God pursuing you, even when you weren't seeking Him? How does Saul's story change the way you think about people who seem "too far gone" for God?
Ananias had every reason to fear Saul, yet his first words were, "Brother Saul." Is there someone in your life whom you've quietly labeled as beyond hope, forgiveness, or acceptance? What would it look like to see that person through the eyes of Jesus?
Saul's encounter with Jesus didn't simply improve his life. It completely re-centered it. What area of your life is Jesus currently turning "right side up"? Where is He calling you to surrender control?
Jesus told Ananias that Saul would suffer for His name, but He also promised His presence. How does knowing that Christ is with us in suffering change the way we face hardship or opposition for our faith?
The sermon reminds us that the Gospel is bigger than our sin, our failures, and our assumptions about others. This week, who is your "Saul"? What is one intentional step you can take to pray for, encourage, or reach out to someone who needs to experience the pursuing, embracing, and transforming grace of Jesus?
Scripture Reading: Acts 9:1-22
1 But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. 4 And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" 5 And he said, "Who are you, Lord?" And he said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 6 But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do." 7 The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. 8 Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord." 11 And the Lord said to him, "Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, 12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight." 13 But Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name." 15 But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name." 17 So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." 18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; 19 and taking food, he was strengthened.
For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus. 20 And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is the Son of God." 21 And all who heard him were amazed and said, "Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?" 22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Christ Be Magnified"
Cody Carnes
CCLI Song # 7139866
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Randy Duncan continues our series on Acts, Vol. 1 with a message titled The Gospel for the Persecutor. In this sermon Pastor Randy outlines how grace pursues, embraces, and transforms.
Scripture Reading: Acts 9:1-22
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "The Gospel for the Ethiopian Eunuch" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Give Me Jesus".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Have you ever experienced a sense that God was telling you to go to a place or person to whom you didn't want to go? How did you handle it?
In what ways have you seen Jesus fulfill not only the words of Scripture but every ache of the human experience?
Is there someone in your life right now that you want to share the gift of Jesus with? Begin praying for that person now!
Scripture Reading: Acts 8:26-40
26 Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Rise and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." This is a desert place. 27 And he rose and went. And there was an Ethiopian, a eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure. He had come to Jerusalem to worship 28 and was returning, seated in his chariot, and he was reading the prophet Isaiah. 29 And the Spirit said to Philip, "Go over and join this chariot." 30 So Philip ran to him and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, "Do you understand what you are reading?" 31 And he said, "How can I, unless someone guides me?" And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 Now the passage of the Scripture that he was reading was this:
"Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter
and like a lamb before its shearer is silent,
so he opens not his mouth.
33 In his humiliation justice was denied him.
Who can describe his generation?
For his life is taken away from the earth."
34 And the eunuch said to Philip, "About whom, I ask you, does the prophet say this, about himself or about someone else?" 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus. 36 And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, "See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?" 38 And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. 39 And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing. 40 But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he preached the gospel to all the towns until he came to Caesarea.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Give Me Jesus"
Jeremy Camp
CCLI Song # 4874344
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus Lane preaches his last sermon as the Campus Pastor at ULC on The Gospel for the Ethiopian Eunuch. In this message Pastor Marcus outlines how Philip goes, guides, and gives.
Scripture Reading: Acts 8:26-40
Digging Deeper Questions:
Have you ever experienced a sense that God was telling you to go to a place or person to whom you didn't want to go? How did you handle it?
In what ways have you seen Jesus fulfill not only the words of Scripture but every ache of the human experience?
Is there someone in your life right now that you want to share the gift of Jesus with? Begin praying for that person now!
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Gospel Scattered" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Alleluia".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Are you a "Churchlover?" Why or why not? What makes it difficult?
Where do you see God using you right now? Is there a place or people he is calling you to?
What has it looked like for you to receive the gospel personally? Did that change how you approached your faith?
Scripture Reading: Acts 8:1-25
1 And Saul approved of his execution.
And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. 2 Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him. 3 But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison.
4 Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. 5 Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ. 6 And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip, when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8 So there was much joy in that city.
9 But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great. 10 They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, "This man is the power of God that is called Great." 11 And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic. 12 But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed.
14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, "Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit." 20 But Peter said to him, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God.22 Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity." 24 And Simon answered, "Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me."
25 Now when they had testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel to many villages of the Samaritans.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Alleluia"
Elevation Worship
CCLI Song # 7269101
CCLI License # 11254293
As the church in Jerusalem is persecuted some stay behind to keep the community strong and some scatter to proclaim the gospel in new places. Either way we see God uses his people for his purposes in response to his grace in Christ.
Scripture Reading: Acts 8:1-25
Digging Deeper Questions:
Are you a "Churchlover?" Why or why not? What makes it difficult?
Where do you see God using you right now? Is there a place or people he is calling you to?
What has it looked like for you to receive the gospel personally? Did that change how you approached your faith?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "The Gospel Stoned" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Made For More".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Are there places in your life you notice self-righteousness getting in the way of coming to God in genuine repentance?
Do you notice the connection between pride and an inability to receive instruction from God? Where is humility hardest for you?
What makes a willingness to suffer mistreatment graciously and patiently so difficult? What promises reassure you in the face of suffering?
Scripture Reading: Acts 7:44-60
44 "Our fathers had the tent of witness in the wilderness, just as he who spoke to Moses directed him to make it, according to the pattern that he had seen. 45 Our fathers in turn brought it in with Joshua when they dispossessed the nations that God drove out before our fathers. So it was until the days of David, 46 who found favor in the sight of God and asked to find a dwelling place for the God of Jacob. 47 But it was Solomon who built a house for him. 48 Yet the Most High does not dwell in houses made by hands, as the prophet says,
49 "'Heaven is my throne,
and the earth is my footstool.
What kind of house will you build for me, says the Lord,
or what is the place of my rest?
50 Did not my hand make all these things?'
51 "You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you. 52 Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who announced beforehand the coming of the Righteous One, whom you have now betrayed and murdered, 53 you who received the law as delivered by angels and did not keep it."
54 Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him. 55 But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56 And he said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God." 57 But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed together at him. 58 Then they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul. 59 And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." 60 And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Made For More"
Bethel Music - Josh Baldwin
CCLI Song # 7207758
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus Lane continues our sermon series Acts, Vol. 1 with a message about the stoning of Stephen. In this message Pastor Marcus outlines how we are called to die to self-righteousness and die to pride, so that we can look like Jesus.
Scripture Reading: Acts 7:44-60
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Gospel Increases" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Bigger Table".
Digging Deeper Questions:
When conflict arises how do you deal with it? Did you learn anything from this text on how to handle it better?
The early church was culturally diverse but united in mission, how might we better embody that in our congregation? our lives?
What is the aim of your life? Is it bringing peace?
Scripture Reading: Acts 6:1-15
1 Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. 2 And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, "It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word." 5 And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. 6 These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.
7 And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.
8 And Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people. 9 Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), and of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and disputed with Stephen. 10 But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking. 11 Then they secretly instigated men who said, "We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God." 12 And they stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes, and they came upon him and seized him and brought him before the council, 13 and they set up false witnesses who said, "This man never ceases to speak words against this holy place and the law, 14 for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and will change the customs that Moses delivered to us." 15 And gazing at him, all who sat in the council saw that his face was like the face of an angel.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Bigger Table"
Matt Maher
CCLI Song # 7202727
CCLI License # 11254293
As the early church encounters the potential for internal division and external threats, we see that they keep their focus on the mission Christ as for them. And as they do that, this mission keeps them united in the gospel. May it be so among us as well.
Scripture Reading 6:1-15
Digging Deeper Questions:
When conflict arises how do you deal with it? Did you learn anything from this text on how to handle it better?
The early church was culturally diverse but united in mission, how might we better embody that in our congregation? our lives?
What is the aim of your life? Is it bringing peace?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "The Gospel Arrested" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "I Know A Name".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Notice how the fruit of the Sadducees' jealousy causes them to act unjustly in arresting the apostles. Have you ever similarly seen the painful fruit of jealousy in your own life? What is the antidote to jealousy?
How does the example of the apostles give us a template for how we can resist the temptation to give in to people-pleasing?
When you compare the fruit of jealousy and people-pleasing to the fruit of faithfulness, how does the path of faithfulness begin to look more like freedom and joy? Where have you seen the fruit of faithfulness in your own life and relationships?
Scripture Reading: Acts 5:17-42
17 But the high priest rose up, and all who were with him (that is, the party of the Sadducees), and filled with jealousy 18 they arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison. 19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, 20 "Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life." 21 And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and began to teach.
Now when the high priest came, and those who were with him, they called together the council, all the senate of the people of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. 22 But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, 23 "We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them we found no one inside." 24 Now when the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were greatly perplexed about them, wondering what this would come to. 25 And someone came and told them, "Look! The men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people." 26 Then the captain with the officers went and brought them, but not by force, for they were afraid of being stoned by the people.
27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest questioned them, 28 saying, "We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us." 29 But Peter and the apostles answered, "We must obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. 31 God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him."
33 When they heard this, they were enraged and wanted to kill them. 34 But a Pharisee in the council named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in honor by all the people, stood up and gave orders to put the men outside for a little while. 35 And he said to them, "Men of Israel, take care what you are about to do with these men. 36 For before these days Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody, and a number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was killed, and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing.37 After him Judas the Galilean rose up in the days of the census and drew away some of the people after him. He too perished, and all who followed him were scattered. 38 So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; 39 but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!" So they took his advice, 40 and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. 42 And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"I Know A Name"
Elevation Worship
CCLI Song # 7247990
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus Lane continues our series on Acts, Vol. 1 with a message titled The Gospel Arrested. In this sermon, Pastor Marcus has us consider the danger of jealousy, the danger of people-pleasing, and the joy of faithfulness.
Scripture Reading: Acts 5:17-42
Digging Deeper Questions:
Notice how the fruit of the Sadducess jealousy causes them to act unjustly in arresting the apostles. Have you ever similarly seen the painful fruit of jealousy in your own life? What is the antidote to jealousy?
How does the example of the apostles give us a template for how we can resist the temptation to give in to people-pleasing?
When you compare the fruit of jealousy and people-pleasing to the fruit of faithfulness, how does the path of faithfulness begin to look more like freedom and joy? Where have you seen the fruit of faithfulness in your own life and relationships?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Gospel Tested" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on his original song "Only One".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Ananias and Sapphira lie about being more generous than they are. As humans we all tend to wear masks from time to time. Why do you think that is?
Ananias and Sapphira's deaths certainly seem harsh, why do you think the punishment for their hypocrisy was so strong?
Where in your life are tempted to put a mask up and not come honest to others, yourself, or God?
This text closes with the apostle doing ministry just outside the temple. Why do you think they chose to do ministry there? What does that teach us about how we do ministry?
Scripture Reading: Acts 5:1-16
1 But a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property, 2 and with his wife's knowledge he kept back for himself some of the proceeds and brought only a part of it and laid it at the apostles' feet.3 But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land? 4 While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to man but to God." 5 When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and breathed his last. And great fear came upon all who heard of it. 6 The young men rose and wrapped him up and carried him out and buried him.
7 After an interval of about three hours his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 And Peter said to her, "Tell me whether you sold the land for so much." And she said, "Yes, for so much." 9 But Peter said to her, "How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out." 10 Immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. When the young men came in they found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 And great fear came upon the whole church and upon all who heard of these things.
12 Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico.13 None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high esteem. 14 And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, 15 so that they even carried out the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mats, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them. 16 The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all healed.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
CCLI License # 11254293
The story of Ananias and Sapphira is a heavy one, but it teaches us a powerful lesson approaching God honestly. Hypocrisy, pride, and self-righteousness lead to death, but in Christ we are free to confess our sin and come fully honest to God and receive his grace.
Scripture Reading: Acts 5:1-16
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "The Gospel on Trial" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Cornerstone".
Digging Deeper Questions:
How does the notion that "the word does the work" shift how you approach the calling to take part in God's mission?
Have you ever encountered the accusation or felt like Christianity is exclusive? How does the nature of grace help address this concern?
How might the life of the early church challenge you to grow in generosity?
Scripture Reading: Acts 4:1-22, 32-37
1 And as they were speaking to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple and the Sadducees came upon them, 2 greatly annoyed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. 3 And they arrested them and put them in custody until the next day, for it was already evening. 4 But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand.
5 On the next day their rulers and elders and scribes gathered together in Jerusalem, 6 with Annas the high priest and Caiaphas and John and Alexander, and all who were of the high-priestly family. 7 And when they had set them in the midst, they inquired, "By what power or by what name did you do this?" 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "Rulers of the people and elders, 9 if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed, 10 let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well. 11 This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. 12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."
13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus. 14 But seeing the man who was healed standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition. 15 But when they had commanded them to leave the council, they conferred with one another, 16 saying, "What shall we do with these men? For that a notable sign has been performed through them is evident to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. 17 But in order that it may spread no further among the people, let us warn them to speak no more to anyone in this name." 18 So they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, 20 for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard." 21 And when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way to punish them, because of the people, for all were praising God for what had happened. 22 For the man on whom this sign of healing was performed was more than forty years old.
32 Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. 33 And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. 34 There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold 35 and laid it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. 36 Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, 37 sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Cornerstone"
Hillsong
CCLI Song # 6158927
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus Lane continues our series on Acts, Vol. 1 with a message titled The Gospel on Trial. In this sermon Pastor Marcus outlines the power, scandal, and abundance of the Gospel.
Scripture Reading: Acts 4:1-22, 32-37
Digging Deeper Questions:
How does the notion that "the word does the work" shift how you approach the calling to take part in God's mission?
Have you ever encountered the accusation or felt like Christianity is exclusive? How does the nature of grace help address this concern?
How might the life of the early church challenge you to grow in generosity?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Randy Duncan "The Gospel in Jerusalem" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "God So Loved".
Digging Deeper Questions:
- Who are the people we often pass by without really seeing?
Peter did more than notice the lame man. He "fixed his gaze" on him and truly saw him. Who are the overlooked, lonely, hurting, or forgotten people in your daily life? What keeps us from seeing people the way Jesus sees them?
- What are you expecting from Jesus right now?
The lame man asked for money, but Jesus gave him something far greater. Have there been times when God answered a need in a way you did not expect? What might Jesus be offering you that is deeper than what you are currently asking for?
- What does it mean to live and serve in the power of Jesus' name?
Peter did not point to his own abilities, resources, or spirituality. He pointed to Jesus. In a culture that often celebrates self-sufficiency, how can we learn to depend more fully upon Christ and His presence rather than our own strength?
- Why do compassion and proclamation belong together?
The miracle opened the door for Peter to share the Gospel. Why do Christians sometimes separate acts of mercy from sharing the message of Jesus? What are practical ways we can demonstrate Christ's love while also speaking about Him naturally and authentically?
- Where is Jesus calling you to "give what you have" this week?
Peter said, "What I have, I give to you." You may not have all the answers, abundant resources, or extraordinary gifts, but you have Jesus. What opportunities might God be placing before you this week to offer Christ's love, encouragement, hope, or witness to someone else?
Scripture Reading: Acts 3:1-26:
1 Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. 2 And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple. 3 Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive alms. 4 And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, "Look at us." 5 And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. 6 But Peter said, "I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!" 7 And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. 8 And leaping up, he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God, 10 and recognized him as the one who sat at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, asking for alms. And they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
11 While he clung to Peter and John, all the people, utterly astounded, ran together to them in the portico called Solomon's. 12 And when Peter saw it he addressed the people: "Men of Israel, why do you wonder at this, or why do you stare at us, as though by our own power or piety we have made him walk? 13 The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered over and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release him. 14 But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, 15 and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses. 16 And his name—by faith in his name—has made this man strong whom you see and know, and the faith that is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.
17 "And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. 18 But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer, he thus fulfilled. 19 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, 20 that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, 21 whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago. 22 Moses said, 'The Lord God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brothers. You shall listen to him in whatever he tells you. 23 And it shall be that every soul who does not listen to that prophet shall be destroyed from the people.' 24 And all the prophets who have spoken, from Samuel and those who came after him, also proclaimed these days. 25 You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant that God made with your fathers, saying to Abraham, 'And in your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed.' 26 God, having raised up his servant, sent him to you first, to bless you by turning every one of you from your wickedness."
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"God So Loved"
We The Kingdom
CCLI Song # 7169675
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Randy Duncan continues our series on Acts, Vol. 1 with a message on The Gospel in Jerusalem. In this sermon, Pastor Randy outlines the heart of Jesus, the power of His name, and the mission of the church.
Scripture Reading: Acts 3:1-26
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Gospel for 3,000" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "King Of Kings".
Digging Deeper Questions:
When we consider the options for belief in this world, how do the resurrection and uniqueness of Jesus make a difference to out faith?
How is the reality that it "was our sin that held him there (on the cross)" both a convicting and liberating word?
When we look at the life of the early church, where do you see your life in the church? Are there areas for growth for you? Our church?
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:22-47
22 "Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know— 23 this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. 24 God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. 25 For David says concerning him,
"'I saw the Lord always before me,
for he is at my right hand that I may not be shaken;
26 therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced;
my flesh also will dwell in hope.
27 For you will not abandon my soul to Hades,
or let your Holy One see corruption.
28 You have made known to me the paths of life;
you will make me full of gladness with your presence.'
29 "Brothers, I may say to you with confidence about the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 Being therefore a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would set one of his descendants on his throne, 31 he foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption. 32 This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses. 33 Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing. 34 For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he himself says,
"'The Lord said to my Lord,
"Sit at my right hand,
35 until I make your enemies your footstool."'
36 Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified."
37 Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?" 38 And Peter said to them, "Repent
and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself." 40 And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, "Save yourselves from this crooked generation." 41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.
42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"King Of Kings"
Hillsong Worship
CCLI Song # 7127647
CCLI License # 11254293
In the second half of Peter's sermon on Pentecost he makes the case for his hearers to put their trust in Jesus, whom they crucified, now risen from the dead. As the people respond to the grace of God in faith, we see them live out a new life as a community of grace.
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:22-47
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "The Gospel at Pentecost" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Fullness".
Digging Deeper Questions:
When you think of the "work of the Holy Spirit," what typically comes to mind? Why do you associate the Spirit with these activities?
How does the work of the Spirit on Pentecost impact how you view the work of the Holy Spirit? Does it change how you view things in any way?
The beginning of Peter's speech emphasizes that the Spirit seeks to work in all people to bring us to faith and empower us to speak God's truth. How does this shape how you understand what the Spirit is doing in your own life?
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:1-21
1 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.
5 Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. 7 And they were amazed and astonished, saying, "Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? 9 Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, 11 both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God." 12 And all were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, "What does this mean?" 13 But others mocking said, "They are filled with new wine."
14 But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: "Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words. 15 For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day. 16 But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel:
17 "'And in the last days it shall be, God declares,
that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh,
and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
and your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams;
18 even on my male servants and female servants
in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.
19 And I will show wonders in the heavens above
and signs on the earth below,
blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke;
20 the sun shall be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood,
before the day of the Lord comes, the great and magnificent day.
21 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.'
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Fullness"
Elevation Worship
CCLI Song # 7067557
CCLI License # 11254293
As we continue our series on Acts, Vol. 1, Pastor Marcus Lane preaches on The Gospel at Pentecost. Pastor Marcus preaches on how the Spirit is for the Gospel, every nation, and every person.
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:1-21
Digging Deeper Questions:
When you think of the "work of the Holy Spirit," what typically comes to mind? Why do you associate the Spirit with these activities?
How does the work of the Spirit on Pentecost impact how you view the work of the Holy Spirit? Does it change how you view things in any way?
The beginning of Peter's speech emphasizes that the Spirit seeks to work in all people to bring us to faith and empower us to speak God's truth. How does this shape how you understand what the Spirit is doing in your own life?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Gospel Ascends" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "We Will Feast In The House Of Zion".
Digging Deeper Questions:
In the sermon Pastor Gabe talked about how we live in the fifth act of the Theodrama. What role do you see yourself playing in God's story?
In Jesus' ascension He now sits at the right hand of God the Father, reigning and ruling over all things. How ought this dictate our lives?
The ascension gives us power, purpose, and pardon. Which of these three is hardest for you to believe? Easiest? Why?
Scripture Reading: Acts 1:1-11
1 In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, 2 until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. 3 He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.
4 And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, "you heard from me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now."
6 So when they had come together, they asked him, "Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?" 7 He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." 9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, 11 and said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven."
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"We Will Feast In The House Of Zion"
Sandra McCracken
CCLI Song # 7041364
CCLI License # 11254293
As we kick off our new summer sermon series on the book of Acts, Pastor Gabe orients us to the book of acts, breaks down the ascension, and shows us how in the ascension we receive power, purpose, and pardon in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Scripture Reading: Acts 1:1-11
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Peter" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Made For More".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Have you experienced instances where living a self-directed life feels like spinning your wheels in futility? If so, what made self-direction so frustrating?
What freedom is found in living a divine-directed life?
Can you see a clear connection between the restoration Jesus brings and the purpose Jesus gives you in your own life and work? Where do you see opportunities to live as a minister of reconciliation like Paul talks about in 2 Corinthians 5?
Scripture Reading: John 21:1-19
1 After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. 3 Simon Peter said to them, "I am going fishing." They said to him, "We will go with you." They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
4 Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Jesus said to them, "Children, do you have any fish?" They answered him, "No." 6 He said to them, "Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some." So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. 7 That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. 8 The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off.
9 When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish that you have just caught." 11 So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, 153 of them. And although there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." Now none of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. 14 This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.
15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs." 16 He said to him a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." 17 He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go." 19 (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, "Follow me."
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Made For More"
Bethel Music
CCLI Song # 7207758
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus Lane wraps up our sermon series on Encountering Jesus with a message on Peter. Pastor Marcus walks us through self-directed life, divine-directed life, and restoration and purpose.
Scripture Reading: John 21:1-19
Digging Deeper Questions:
Have you experienced instances where living a self-directed life feels like spinning your wheels in futility? If so, what made self-direction so frustrating?
What freedom is found in living a divine-directed life?
Can you see a clear connection between the restoration Jesus brings and the purpose Jesus gives you in your own life and work? Where do you see opportunities to live as a minister of reconciliation like Paul talks about in 2 Corinthians 5?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "Thomas" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Faithful Now".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Why do you think Thomas was so resistant to the testimony about the resurrection from his fellow apostles?
Pastor Gabe told the story of his friend Kyle who walked away from the faith and how that unsettled his own faith. Have you ever had an experience like that? Something that caused you to doubt?
Pastor Gabe gave 5 steps to walk through in the midst of doubt. Which step is most helpful for you? Least? Why?
In the midst of doubt, we were encouraged us to cling to the promises of God. Admittedly, this feels circular, "I doubt God's promises, so I should cling to his promises? How does that work?" Well, how does that work?
Scripture Reading: John 20:24-29
24 Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe."
26 Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." 27 Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe." 28 Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" 29 Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Faithful Now"
Vertical Worship
CCLI Song # 7137533
CCLI License # 11254293
In the life of faith we can feel dauntless as we follow Jesus only be followed by moments of doubt, but it's in moments of doubt we are invited to depend on the promises of God we have in the resurrected Jesus.
Scripture Reading: John 20:24-29
Digging Deeper Questions:
Why do you think Thomas was so resistant to the testimony about the resurrection from his fellow apostles?
Pastor Gabe told the story of his friend Kyle who walked away from the faith and how that unsettled his own faith. Have you ever had an experience like that? Something that caused you to doubt?
Pastor Gabe gave 5 steps to walk through in the midst of doubt. Which step is most helpful for you? Least? Why?
In the midst of doubt, we were encouraged us to cling to the promises of God. Admittedly, this feels circular, "I doubt God's promises, so I should cling to his promises? How does that work?" Well, how does that work?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Randy Duncan "The Eleven" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Because He Lives (Amen)".
Digging Deeper Questions:
The disciples were afraid, ashamed, and confused when Jesus appeared to them behind locked doors. Where do you see yourself in that room? What fears, doubts, or unfinished business might Jesus be stepping into in your life right now?
Jesus speaks "Peace be with you" before He gives any explanation or mission. Why do you think restoration comes before instruction? How has God met you with peace when you expected correction?
Jesus keeps His wounds after the resurrection. How does the idea that God can use our wounds as part of our testimony reshape how you view your past pain or failures?
Jesus calls the disciples witnesses because they have been forgiven. How does knowing you are forgiven, not perfect, change the way you see your role in sharing your faith?
Scripture Reading: Luke 24:36-49
36 As they were talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, "Peace to you!" 37 But they were startled and frightened and thought they saw a spirit. 38 And he said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have." 40 And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41 And while they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling, he said to them, "Have you anything here to eat?" 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate before them.
44 Then he said to them, "These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled." 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, 46 and said to them, "Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, 47 and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high."
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Because He Lives (Amen)"
Matt Maher
CCLI Song # 7027887
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Randy Duncan continues our series on Encountering Jesus with a message on The Eleven. This encounter shows us what the risen Christ does with broken people. Pastor Randy breaks down how this unfolds in three phases of Jesus: "Peace be with you", "why are you troubled?", and "you are witnesses".
Scripture Reading: Luke 24:36-49
Digging Deeper Questions:
The disciples were afraid, ashamed, and confused when Jesus appeared to them behind locked doors. Where do you see yourself in that room? What fears, doubts, or unfinished business might Jesus be stepping into in your life right now?
Jesus speaks "Peace be with you" before He gives any explanation or mission. Why do you think restoration comes before instruction? How has God met you with peace when you expected correction?
Jesus keeps His wounds after the resurrection. How does the idea that God can use our wounds as part of our testimony reshape how you view your past pain or failures?
Jesus calls the disciples witnesses because they have been forgiven. How does knowing you are forgiven, not perfect, change the way you see your role in sharing your faith?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Cleopas and a Friend" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "You Walk With Me".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Have you ever experienced moments of spiritual desolation where it felt like God's presence was hidden from you? What was it like? What did you do about it?
How does Jesus' response to Cleopas and the other disciple encourage you as you seek God's presence?
How does the moment of Jesus' revelation in this story help you see where he promises his presence today?
Scripture Reading: Luke 24:13-35
13 That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14 and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17 And he said to them, "What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?" And they stood still, looking sad. 18 Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, "Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?" 19 And he said to them, "What things?" And they said to him, "Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. 21 But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened. 22 Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning, 23 and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see." 25 And he said to them, "O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?" 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.
28 So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, 29 but they urged him strongly, saying, "Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent." So he went in to stay with them. 30 When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. 31 And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. 32 They said to each other, "Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?" 33 And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, 34 saying, "The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!" 35 Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"You Walk With Me"
Housefires
CCLI Song # 7130488
CCLI License # 11254293
As we continue in the Easter season and our Encountering Jesus sermon series, Pastor Marcus preaches on Cleopas and a Friend. Pastor Marcus teaches how we should consider when Jesus is hidden, when Jesus teaches, and when Jesus is revealed.
Scripture Reading: Luke 24:13-35
Digging Deeper Questions:
Have you ever experienced moments of spiritual desolation where it felt like God's presence was hidden from you? What was it like? What did you do about it?
How does Jesus' response to Cleopas and the other disciple encourage you as you seek God's presence?
How does the moment of Jesus' revelation in this story help you see where he promises his presence today?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Other Mary" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "There Is A King".
Digging Deeper Questions:
The historian John Dickson says, People don't make their minds up about big things based only on evidence…but based on a mix of evidence…assumptions and experiences, preferences and prejudices. Do you agree with Dickson? What determines what you believe about big things?
Have you ever felt like "the other Mary?" What are some of the ways we respond to that feeling?
The angel gave Mary the purpose of proclaiming the resurrection, where are the places you feel God has most given you purpose?
The Marys fall at Jesus' feet and worship him when they encounter him. What does worship look like for you?
Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:1-10
1 Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. 2 And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. 4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. 5 But the angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you." 8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 And behold, Jesus met them and said, "Greetings!" And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me."
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"There Is A King"
Elevation Worship
CCLI Song # 7138218
CCLI License # 11254293
As the other Mary encounters the resurrected Jesus she finds her significance, purpose, and hope. As we encounter the resurrected Jesus may we find those same things.
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Mary Magdalene" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Forever (We Sing Hallelujah)".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Would you say that you have truly encountered Jesus? Why or why not?
What do you find noteworthy about the way Mary responds to what she finds at the tomb? How might this be instructive for how you are called to live as a follower of Jesus?
How does Augustine's statement that "it is better not to touch [Christ] with the hand and to touch him with faith" make you rethink what it means to encounter Jesus?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Forever (We Sing Hallelujah)"
Kari Jobe
CCLI Song # 7001228
CCLI License # 11254293
On Easter Sunday, Pastor Marcus opens up our new sermon series Encountering Jesus with a message on Mary Magdalene. In this sermon, Pastor Marcus outlines how Mary Goes, Tells, and Sees.
Digging Deeper Questions:
Would you say that you have truly encountered Jesus? Why or why not?
What do you find noteworthy about the way Mary responds to what she finds at the tomb? How might this be instructive for how you are called to live as a follower of Jesus?
How does Augustine's statement that "it is better not to touch [Christ] with the hand and to touch him with faith" make you rethink what it means to encounter Jesus?
For our Good Friday gathering, Pastor Gabe, Pastor Marcus, and Pastor Randy reflect on Jesus' final words on the cross.
At Jesus celebrates the Passover with his disciples, he institutes the Lord's Supper. He does it because he knows who we are and what we need, and he does it because of who he is, the God of self-giving love. We are invited to trust his word and receive the gift of his grace.
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Rabbit's Foot" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "You've Already Won".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Idolatry is a hard and heavy word to contemplate. Do you agree with the assertion that your life is laden with things competing for your ultimate allegiance? Why or why not?
Consider again the quote from William Temple, "Your religion is what you do with your solitude." Where do your thoughts go when nothing else is commanding your attention? What might this tell you about the idols that exist in your life?
Idolatry is about control. The idol is a means to lay hold of God's authority and to get what we want. In which area of life is it most difficult for you to relinquish control to God and to trust in his power and his plans?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"You've Already Won"
Shane and Shane
CCLI Song # 7194845
CCLI License # 11254293
So often we are tempted to put our trust in created things rather than the Creator. This is called idolatry. And the problem with idolatry is, it doesn't work. We were made for God and until we rest in him and in Christ's finished work on our behalf we will remain oppressed by the idols of this world.
Digging Deeper Questions:
Idolatry is a hard and heavy word to contemplate. Do you agree with the assertion that your life is laden with things competing for your ultimate allegiance? Why or why not?
Consider again the quote from William Temple, "Your religion is what you do with your solitude." Where do your thoughts go when nothing else is commanding your attention? What might this tell you about the idols that exist in your life?
Idolatry is about control. The idol is a means to lay hold of God's authority and to get what we want. In which area of life is it most difficult for you to relinquish control to God and to trust in his power and his plans?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "The Party Hat" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Made For More".
Digging Deeper Questions
Do you feel pressure to find and maintain a certain level of happiness in life? If so, where do you believe the pressure is coming from? Is it an instinctual urge, or is it fueled by outside forces, such as the stories told on social media or the manufactured discontent of modern marketing?
Do you struggle to believe that there can be purpose in pain? Can you think of any good things in your life that have been borne out of incredible difficulty? If so, what are they?
How does the idea of holiness as a higher goal than happiness make you feel? Do you have any concern that, should your focus shift to higher aims, you'll somehow miss out?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Made For More"
Josh Baldwin
CCLI Song # 7207758
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus continues our Junk Drawer Jesus with a message on The Party Hat. Pastor Marcus walks us through how the writer of Hebrews tells us to look to Jesus, cling to the Father, and see the bigger picture.
Digging Deeper Questions:
Do you feel pressure to find and maintain a certain level of happiness in life? If so, where do you believe the pressure is coming from? Is it an instinctual urge, or is it fueled by outside forces, such as the stories told on social media or the manufactured discontent of modern marketing?
Do you struggle to believe that there can be purpose in pain? Can you think of any good things in your life that have been borne out of incredible difficulty? If so, what are they?
How does the idea of holiness as a higher goal than happiness make you feel? Do you have any concern that, should your focus shift to higher aims, you'll somehow miss out?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Whistle" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "No Longer Slaves".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Which of the two extremes are you drawn toward the most? Are you tempted to be a pietist, looking to obey all of the rules; or a party animal, finding ways to bend and break them?
A life of faith in Jesus Christ is not about what we can or cannot do, but about loving God and our neighbor in all that we do. Is this a new concept for you? If so, how others-oriented have you been when making moral decisions, prior to this?
Do you feel that being "set free to focus on love" as you navigate life will add clarity or complexity to your decision making?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"No Longer Slaves"
Bethel Music
CCLI Song # 7030123
CCLI License # 11254293
So often we can fall into the trap of thinking that God exists as a divine referee. That we're just trying to enjoy ourselves in our few short years, and he's up there just waiting to blow the whistle and call foul. When, in fact, God has made us for freedom and joy in Him. Thanks to the love and grace of Christ we have access to that joy and freedom even now.
Digging Deeper Questions:
Which of the two extremes are you drawn toward the most? Are you tempted to be a pietist, looking to obey all of the rules; or a party animal, finding ways to bend and break them?
A life of faith in Jesus Christ is not about what we can or cannot do, but about loving God and our neighbor in all that we do. Is this a new concept for you? If so, how others-oriented have you been when making moral decisions, prior to this?
Do you feel that being "set free to focus on love" as you navigate life will add clarity or complexity to your decision making?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "The Ruler" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on Nate's new song "You Will Find Me There (Psalm 139)".
Digging Deeper Questions:
When have you felt the closest to God? What was the circumstance surrounding that sensation and how would you describe that feeling to others?
In times of difficulty and struggle, where do you go, spiritually? Do you get angry with God, or do you blame yourself?
How open are you to the idea that our performance, and our circumstances, have no bearing on our proximity to God and his attitude toward us?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"You Will Find Me There (Psalm 139)"
Nate Zuellig
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus Lane continues our Junk Drawer Jesus sermon series and group book study with a message on The Ruler. In this sermon, Pastor Marcus breaks down how Paul in Galatians 3 describes the foolishness of the Ruler, the curse of the Ruler, and the freedom from the Ruler.
Digging Deeper Questions:
When have you felt the closest to God? What was the circumstance surrounding that sensation and how would you describe that feeling to others?
In times of difficulty and struggle, where do you go, spiritually? Do you get angry with God, or do you blame yourself?
How open are you to the idea that our performance, and our circumstances, have no bearing on our proximity to God and his attitude toward us?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Scale" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "How Deep The Father's Love For Us".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Is there something in your life about which you are a perfectionist, some task for which "good enough" is never good enough? If so, why do you think you're so hard on yourself, and perhaps others, about that particular thing?
How does the notion of "throwing out the scale" in regard to God make you feel? Does it strike you as liberating, or as cheap grace and too good to be true?
Is it your instinct to see God as demanding perfection or as eager to forgive?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"How Deep The Father's Love For Us"
Stuart Townend
CCLI Song # 1558110
CCLI License # 11254293
The scale. Humans tend to live as if their is a scale weighing our good deeds and our bad. We think if we can just do enough good it will all balance out. The message of the gospel is that we can't balance the scale, but Christ has on our behalf.
Digging Deeper Questions:
Is there something in your life about which you are a perfectionist, some task for which "good enough" is never good enough? If so, why do you think you're so hard on yourself, and perhaps others, about that particular thing?
How does the notion of "throwing out the scale" in regard to God make you feel? Does it strike you as liberating, or as cheap grace and too good to be true?
Is it your instinct to see God as demanding perfection or as eager to forgive?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Spiritual Junk Drawer" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Broken Vessels".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Reflect for a moment on the various influences in your life, from family and friends to popular culture, as well as your upbringing and education. Which has had the greatest impact on your spirituality? Does any specific idea or truth that's important to you come to mind?
Taking a critical look at your spiritual and religious assumptions is a vulnerable task. It requires humility and trust. What are you feeling as we embark on this task? Would you characterize yourself as being cautious and guarded, open and unafraid, or somewhere in between?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Broken Vessels (Amazing Grace)"
Hillsong Worship
CCLI Song # 7019974
CCLI License # 11254293
As we kick off our Lenten sermon series and book study, Pastor Gabe introduces the concept of the "spiritual junk drawer," why it matters, and how to get it clean. Hint: it's all about grace baby!
Digging Deeper Questions:
Reflect for a moment on the various influences in your life, from family and friends to popular culture, as well as your upbringing and education. Which has had the greatest impact on your spirituality? Does any specific idea or truth that's important to you come to mind?
Taking a critical look at your spiritual and religious assumptions is a vulnerable task. It requires humility and trust. What are you feeling as we embark on this task? Would you characterize yourself as being cautious and guarded, open and unafraid, or somewhere in between?
For this Ash Wednesday, Pastor Marcus Lane preached on Joel 2:12-19 with a sermon titled Return. Pastor Marcus walked us through how Joel shows us when to return, how to return, and what happens when we return.
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Rediscover Mission" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Bigger Table".
Digging Deeper Questions:
What places in your life do you see God calling you to "scatter" to be a part of his work?
Where do you find it most challenging to move with compassion when others wrong you.
Where have you seen God's harvest most clearly? Where do you want to pray that God's harvest would keep bearing fruit today?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Bigger Table"
Matt Maher
CCLI Song # 7202727
CCLI License # 11254293
As we wrap our series Being Church, Pastor Marcus preaches a sermon titled Rediscover Mission. In this message Pastor Marcus teaches how a church on mission gathers and scatters, moves with compassion, and reaps in abundance.
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "Rediscover Community" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Bless God".
Digging Deeper Questions:
When you think of the word community what comes to mind for you?
When/where was the last time you most felt part of a community?
What are some of the tensions found in being a community built first and foremost on grace?
Do you ever find yourself falling into the trap of the pharisee? How does that manifest itself for you?
Pastor Gabe really sat on this verse, Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. How does this verse hit you?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Bless God"
Brandon Lake, Brooke Ligertwood, and Cody Carnes
CCLI Song # 7206380
CCLI License # 11254293
The church is a community. But what is the nature of christian community? In this sermon, Pastor Gabe roots us in the reality that above all else the church must be a community rooted in God's grace in Christ Jesus for all people.
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Randy Duncan "Chapel." and hear from Amy Duncan and Matt Korte about God taking us to places that may not be comfortable and Super Sunday.
Digging Deeper Questions:
God did not just deliver Israel from Egypt but to Himself. Where do you see God's deliverance in your own story, and how might He be inviting you closer to Himself right now?
Exodus says the people gave because their hearts were stirred, not pressured. What does joyful, willing response to God look like in your life at this season, with your time, gifts, or presence?
The glory that once filled the tabernacle now dwells among us in Jesus. How does knowing that Christ is truly with you shape the way you face uncertainty, loss, or daily decisions?
Israel moved when the cloud moved and rested when it rested. Where might you be tempted to stay comfortable when Jesus is calling you to trust Him and take a step into the unknown?
Who might God be calling you to love, serve, or walk alongside so that they experience Christ through you?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Randy Duncan continues our sermon series Being Church with a message titled Chapel. In this message, Pastor Randy teaches that the Lord delivers His people, dwells with His people, and directs His people.
Digging Deeper Questions:
God did not just deliver Israel from Egypt but to Himself. Where do you see God's deliverance in your own story, and how might He be inviting you closer to Himself right now?
Exodus says the people gave because their hearts were stirred, not pressured. What does joyful, willing response to God look like in your life at this season, with your time, gifts, or presence?
The glory that once filled the tabernacle now dwells among us in Jesus. How does knowing that Christ is truly with you shape the way you face uncertainty, loss, or daily decisions?
Israel moved when the cloud moved and rested when it rested. Where might you be tempted to stay comfortable when Jesus is calling you to trust Him and take a step into the unknown?
Who might God be calling you to love, serve, or walk alongside so that they experience Christ through you?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Lutheran." and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me".
Digging Deeper Questions:
How does the constant demand of the laws we try to live our lives by highlight our need for grace?
Why does the message of the righteousness of God through faith sometimes seem hard to believe? Why is it so freeing?
In what ways can the message of the Gospel be a source of unity and equality for God's people?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me"
CityAlight Music
CCLI Song # 7121852
CCLI License # 11254293
As we continue our series Being Church Pastor Marcus Lane preaches a sermon titled Lutheran. Pastor Marcus teaches how being Lutheran informs how we understand the law, faith, and ourselves.
Digging Deeper Questions:
How does the constant demand of the laws we try to live our lives by highlight our need for grace?
Why does the message of the righteousness of God through faith sometimes seem hard to believe? Why is it so freeing?
In what ways can the message of the Gospel be a source of unity and equality for God's people?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "University." and hear from Amy Duncan and Matt Korte talk about last week's worship songs.
Digging Deeper Questions:
What audience has God given you to share the Gospel? What would it look like for you to grow in your understanding of that audience?
How does the simple message that "Jesus is for the world" give you clarity in what you are called to share with those around you?
Read 1 Corinthians 3:1-9. How do Paul's words help simplify our role planting the seeds of the Gospel?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
As we continue our series on Being Church Pastor Marcus preaches a sermon titled University. In this message Pastor Marcus asks us who is our audience, what is our message, and what is our mission?
Digging Deeper Questions:
What audience has God given you to share the Gospel? What would it look like for you to grow in your understanding of that audience?
How does the simple message that "Jesus is for the world" give you clarity in what you are called to share with those around you?
Read 1 Corinthians 3:1-9. How do Paul's words help simplify our role planting the seeds of the Gospel?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "Why Church?" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Build Your Church".
Digging Deeper Questions:
When you think of the word "church" what comes to mind for you?
Why church? Why are you part of the church? Or not?
How does the identity of being a saint in Christ, shape your daily life? Does it? Could it?
Have you ever had someone speak the truth in love towards you? How did that go? You ever speak it to someone else?
What role do you see yourself playing as Christ builds his church?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Build Your Church"
Maverick City
CCLI Song # 7171908
CCLI License # 11254293
As we launch our new sermon series Being Church, Pastor Gabe kicks us off by asking the question why church? And in our text from Ephesians we find that it is in Christ's blood bought church we are given an unshakeable identity, joined to a formative community, and given an enduring purpose.
Digging Deeper Questions:
When you think of the word "church" what comes to mind for you?
Why church? Why are you part of the church? Or not?
How does the identity of being a saint in christ, shape your daily life? does it? could it?
Have you ever had someone speak the truth in love towards you? How did that go? You ever speak it to someone else?
What role do you see yourself playing as Christ builds his church?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Alpha & Omega" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on Nate's original song, "Only One".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Where in your life is God inviting you to find contentment in the simple call to "listen & obey"?
Are there areas of life that feel difficult or chaotic for you? How does the hope of Jesus give you peace in the midst of those things?
What voices claiming, "If you have me, you have everything you need," seem the loudest right now? How does Jesus address these desires in a fuller and lasting way?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
As we wrap up our series Jesus Matter, Pastor Marcus preaches on the Alpha & Omega. Pastor Marcus teaches that we are called to listen and obey, so that we can find peace and live forever.
Digging Deeper Questions:
Where in your life is God inviting you to find contentment in the simple call to "listen & obey"?
Are there areas of life that feel difficult or chaotic for you? How does the hope of Jesus give you peace in the midst of those things?
What voices claiming, "If you have me, you have everything you need," seem the loudest right now? How does Jesus address these desires in a fuller and lasting way?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Chris Troxel "The Word Made Flesh".
Digging Deeper Questions:
The sermon says that "existence requires experience." Where do you notice the difference between simply knowing about God and experiencing the life and light of Christ in your own story?
John says, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." What does it mean for you to trust that God has truly entered human life—not from a distance, but from the inside—and how does that shape the way you bring your struggles to Him?
The sermon claims that "the Word made flesh makes a way for you." Where in your life right now do you most need to hear that God has made a way—into light, connection, or love?
From Christ's fullness we receive "grace upon grace." How might living from that abundance (rather than scarcity or fear) change the way you relate to others this week—especially those who feel distant, difficult, or overlooked?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
For this service, ULC joined in worship at our church plant, Emmaus Lutheran. Pastor Chris Troxel preached on The Word Made Flesh.
Digging Deeper Questions:
The sermon says that "existence requires experience." Where do you notice the difference between simply knowing about God and experiencing the life and light of Christ in your own story?
John says, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." What does it mean for you to trust that God has truly entered human life - not from a distance, but from the inside— and how does that shape the way you bring your struggles to Him?
The sermon claims that "the Word made flesh makes a way for you." Where in your life right now do you most need to hear that God has made a way - into light, connection, or love?
From Christ's fullness we receive "grace upon grace." How might living from that abundance (rather than scarcity or fear) change the way you relate to others this week-especially those who feel distant, difficult, or overlooked?
On Christmas we celebrate Immanuel, God With Us. He invites us into the story beneath the story where we experience purpose, hope, and joy!
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Randy Duncan "The Perfect Servant" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Manger Throne".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Where do you most need to hear this truth right now: that Jesus truly understands your weakness, fear, exhaustion, or pain? How does Christmas look different when you remember that God did not save you from a distance?
How does seeing Christmas through the lens of the cross deepen or challenge the way you normally think about Jesus' love and obedience? What does it tell you about the seriousness of your salvation?
Where do you sense tension in your own life between clinging to status, control, or comfort and trusting God through humility and obedience? What might it look like to take a small step of faith this season?
Where is Jesus inviting you to serve in a hidden, costly, or unnoticed way? How could your group pray for and support one another in living out the mind of Christ?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Manger Throne"
Phil Wickham
CCLI Song # 7226106
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Randy Duncan continues our series Jesus Matters with a message on The Perfect Servant. Pastor Randy outlines how Jesus, the Perfect Servant gets us, saves us, and shapes us.
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Image of God" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Holy Forever".
Digging Deeper Questions:
When you think of the phrase "image of God," what comes to mind for you?
There is a lot one can know about God simply through reason and our senses, what does Jesus uniquely reveal about God?
As Pastor Gabe went through the lists of what it means to be in Adam vs. in Christ, what parts of being "in Adam" do you still wrestle with? What parts of being "in Christ" do you most resonate with?
Jesus cross reconciles us to God and each other, where have you seen that play out in your life?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Holy Forever"
Chris Tomlin
CCLI Song # 7249209
CCLI License # 11254293
Jesus is the image of God. He shows us who God is. He shows us who we're meant to be, and he reconciles us to God and each other. This is good news of great joy for all people
Digging Deeper Questions:
When you think of the phrase "image of God," what comes to mind for you?
There is a lot one can know about God simply through reason and our senses, what does Jesus uniquely reveal about God?
As Pastor Gabe went through the lists of what it means to be in Adam vs. in Christ, what parts of being "in Adam" do you still wrestle with? What parts of being "in Christ" do you most resonate with?
Jesus cross reconciles us to God and each other, where have you seen that play out in your life?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Eternal Wisdom" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Light of the World (Sing Hallelujah)".
Digging Deeper Questions:
What forms of worldly wisdom do you find most enticing? How have you experienced these wisdoms as incomplete?
What difference does it make knowing that God's wisdom is not simply an idea or an impersonal force but an actual person who has taken on flesh in Jesus?
What does it look like to pursue wisdom the way Proverbs 8 calls us to? Can you think of people who embody this kind of divine wisdom?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Light of the World (Sing Hallelujah)"
We The Kingdom
CCLI Song # 7163734
CCLI License # 11254293
Proverbs 8 revolves around the notion of godly wisdom. Pastor Marcus dives into what Proverbs says about wisdom and how it relates to Jesus.
Digging Deeper Questions:
What forms of worldly wisdom do you find most enticing? How have you experienced these wisdoms as incomplete?
What difference does it make knowing that God's wisdom is not simply an idea or an impersonal force but an actual person who has taken on flesh in Jesus?
What does it look like to pursue wisdom the way Proverbs 8 calls us to? Can you think of people who embody this kind of divine wisdom?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "Lord & Priest" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "There Is A King".
Digging Deeper Questions:
At the beginning of this sermon Pastor Gabe talked about the "scandal of particularity" why do you think God's revelation in the particular person of Jesus is so scandalous to the modern mind? Do you wrestle with it?
Jesus is Lord and you are not. What is challenging about this and what is comforting about this?
How does viewing Jesus as Priestly King encourage you in your daily life?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"There Is A King"
Elevation Worship
CCLI Song # 7138218
CCLI License # 11254293
As we kick off our new sermon series for Advent and Christmas, Jesus Matters, Pastor Gabe teaches on the messianic Psalm, Psalm 110. In this Psalm of David we hear the good news that Jesus is king, Jesus is priest, and Jesus is our priestly king.
Digging Deeper Questions:
At the beginning of this sermon Pastor Gabe talked about the "scandal of particularity" why do you think God's revelation in the particular person of Jesus is so scandalous to the modern mind? Do you wrestle with it?
Jesus is Lord and you are not. What is challenging about this and what is comforting about this?
How does viewing Jesus as Priestly King encourage you in your daily life?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "Blessing" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "Bless God".
Digging Deeper Questions:
Have you ever resorted to a Band-Aid solution to a problem? Big or small, how did that go?
Haggai has the people face the reality of God's Word and their failure to live in line with it. What are some ways we avoid facing the reality of God's Word?
As the people consider living in line with the curse or the blessing, it seems so obvious that we want to live in line with the blessing, why do we end up falling for the curse again and again?
Jesus is the king who reverses the curse and brings us into his blessed kingdom. What are some ways you have been blessed as part of Christ's kingdom?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Bless God"
Brandon Lake, Brooke Ligertwood, Cody Carnes
CCLI Song # 7206380
CCLI License # 11254293
As we close out our series on Haggai, Pastor Gabe teaches on the importance of not using a "band-aid solution" to our problems in life, but instead to face reality, consider God's ways, and find our true solution in the blessings of our King Jesus.
Digging Deeper Questions:
Have you ever resorted to a Band-Aid solution to a problem? Big or small, how did that go?
Haggai has the people face the reality of God's Word and their failure to live in line with it. What are some ways we avoid facing the reality of God's Word?
As the people consider living in line with the curse or the blessing, it seems so obvious that we want to live in line with the blessing, why do we end up falling for the curse again and again?
Jesus is the king who reverses the curse and brings us into his blessed kingdom. What are some ways you have been blessed as part of Christ's kingdom?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Greater Glory" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "His Glory and My Good".
Digging Deeper Questions:
How does God giving his permission invite you to both give thanks for past faithfulness and also contend with past failures? Are there specific things that come to mind?
Where do you need the strength of God's loving presence to give you courage to act faithfully today?
Does the promise of God's coming kingdom reshape how you see your present work? If so, how?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"His Glory and My Good"
CityAlight
CCLI Song # 7235691
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus continues our series on Haggai with a message titled Greater Glory. In this sermon, Pastor Marcus outlines how as we build, we should have grief for the past, strength for the present, and hope for the future.
Digging Deeper Questions:
How does God giving his permission invite you to both give thanks for past faithfulness and also contend with past failures? Are there specific things that come to mind?
Where do you need the strength of God's loving presence to give you courage to act faithfully today? Does the promise of God's coming kingdom reshape how you see your present work? If so, how?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "Obedience" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on Nate's song, "Not My Own".
Digging Deeper Questions:
When you think of the word obedience what comes to mind for you?
What do you think are some of the most challenging commands of Jesus to obey? In our world? In your life?
Do you find yourself caught up in climbing the first mountain instead of the second? What does climbing the second mountain look like?
How does what Jesus has done in restoring us, energize us to follow him?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Not My Own"
Nate Zuellig
CCLI License # 11254293
As the people of Israel obey Haggai's words to them, they begin to rebuild the temple. As we witness their obedience we get a blueprint of what faithful obedience to God looks like in our lives.
Digging Deeper Questions:
- When you think of the word obedience what comes to mind for you?
- What do you think are some of the most challenging commands of Jesus to obey? In our world? In your life?
- Do you find yourself caught up in climbing the first mountain instead of the second? What does climbing the second mountain look like?
- How does what Jesus has done in restoring us, energize us to follow him?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Rebuilding" and hear from Amy Duncan on why she chose "Hymn of Heaven" for worship on Sunday.
Digging Deeper Questions:
When you think about what the church is called to build, what comes to mind? Is your picture of what we are called to build consistent with what God calls us to build?
Where do you see misaligned priorities at work in your own life and in the world around you?
How does the calling to "consider your ways" invite you to rediscover God's priorities for your life as his child?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Hymn of Heaven"
Phil Wickham
CCLI Song # 7168994
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus Lane kicks off our new sermon series Rebuild the House: A Series on Haggai with a message titled Rebuilding. In this sermon, Pastor Marcus Lane breaks down how Haggai provides a blueprint for us on how we should build with clear priorities, eternal perspective, and humility and repentance.
Digging Deeper Questions:
- When you think about what the church is called to build, what comes to mind? Is your picture of what we are called to build consistent with what God calls us to build?
- Where do you see misaligned priorities at work in your own life and in the world around you?
- How does the calling to "consider your ways" invite you to rediscover God's priorities for your life as his child?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Has No One Condemned You?" and hear from Amy Duncan on why she chose "Living Hope" for worship on Sunday.
Digging Deeper Questions:
Are there particular behaviors that you notice you are quick to condemn when you see them in others? How might Jesus' response to the woman caught in adultery help you be more gracious toward those behaviors?
Where do you most see a "high anthropology" at work in our culture? In the church? In your heart? How might recognition of our weaknesses lead us to more graciousness toward others?
How does Jesus' response to this woman shape how you approach God in your own sins and failures?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Living Hope"
Phil Wickham
CCLI Song # 7106807
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus Lane wraps up our sermon series Questions Jesus Asked with a message one Jesus' question Has No One Condemned You? Pastor Marcus breaks down how Jesus teaches, confronts hypocrisy, and extends mercy.
Digging Deeper Questions:
- Are there particular behaviors that you notice you are quick to condemn when you see them in others? How might Jesus' response to the woman caught in adultery help you be more gracious toward those behaviors?
- Where do you most see a "high anthropology" at work in our culture? In the church? In your heart? How might recognition of our weaknesses lead us to more graciousness toward others?
- How does Jesus' response to this woman shape how you approach God in your own sins and failures?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "What Good Is It To Gain The World But Lose Your Soul?" and hear from Amy Duncan on why she chose "Faithful Now" for worship on Sunday.
Digging Deeper Questions:
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Which part of these 5 verses is most challenging to you?
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What are some common places we are tempted to "house our soul?"
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What does it look like for you to deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Jesus?
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How does knowing your soul is secure in Jesus shape your life now?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"His Glory And My Good"
CityAlight (Ben Fielding, Jonny Robinson, Rich Thompson)
CCLI Song # 7235691
CCLI License # 11254293
In this question, Jesus helps us see that nothing in this world compares to him. To gain anything else in the world will not satisfy what our souls need, we can only find that in him and the hope he offers.
Digging Deeper Questions:
- Which part of these 5 verses is most challenging to you?
- What are some common places we are tempted to "house our soul?"
- What does it look like for you to deny yourself take up your cross and follow Jesus?
- How does knowing your soul is secure in Jesus shape your life now?
In this question, Jesus helps us see that nothing in this world compares to him. To gain anything else in the world will not satisfy what our souls need, we can only find that in him and the hope he offers.
Digging Deeper Questions:
- Which part of these 5 verses is most challenging to you?
- What are some common places we are tempted to "house our soul?"
- What does it look like for you to deny yourself take up your cross and follow Jesus?
- How does knowing your soul is secure in Jesus shape your life now?
In this question, Jesus helps us see that nothing in this world compares to him. To gain anything else in the world will not satisfy what our souls need, we can only find that in him and the hope he offers.
Digging Deeper Questions:
- Which part of these 5 verses is most challenging to you?
- What are some common places we are tempted to "house our soul?"
- What does it look like for you to deny yourself take up your cross and follow Jesus?
- How does knowing your soul is secure in Jesus shape your life now?
In this question, Jesus helps us see that nothing in this world compares to him. To gain anything else in the world will not satisfy what our souls need, we can only find that in him and the hope he offers.
Digging Deeper Questions:
- Which part of these 5 verses is most challenging to you?
- What are some common places we are tempted to "house our soul?"
- What does it look like for you to deny yourself take up your cross and follow Jesus?
- How does knowing your soul is secure in Jesus shape your life now?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "Why Did You Doubt?" and hear from Amy Duncan on why she chose "Faithful Now" for worship on Sunday.
Digging Deeper Questions:
What are some doubts people have? Do you have any of those? Have you ever?
Do you find it difficult to express your doubts? Why is that?
Have you ever seen God grow your faith through times of doubt and struggle? How?
What might it look like for your community group to be a place to express our doubts?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Faithful Now"
Vertical Worship (Eddie Hoagland, Hank Bentley, Jonathan Smith, and Mia Fieldes)
CCLI Song # 7137533
CCLI License # 11254293
Doubt is part of the life of faith. Yet so often we try to hide it and run from it. The invitation of Jesus is to answer his question and tell him our doubts and see that he meets us in them and grabs hold of us even as we grab hold of him in faith.
Digging Deeper Questions:
What are some doubts people have? Do you have any of those? Have you ever?
Do you find it difficult to express your doubts? Why is that?
Have you ever seen God grow your faith through times of doubt and struggle? How?
What might it look like for your community group to be a place to express our doubts?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Randy Duncan "Why Are You Anxious?" and hear from Amy Duncan on why she chose "The Lord Will Provide" for worship on Sunday.
Digging Deeper Questions:
What does Paul mean when he says to "take every thought captive to Christ"? What are the effects of allowing thoughts to run wild?
How does worry play out like functional atheism in our lives?
Why do you think Jesus ended His discussion on worry with these words, "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble"? How is it meant to bring you comfort?
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"The Lord Will Provide"
Brett Younker, Chris Davenport, Jess Cates
CCLI Song # 7227727
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Randy continues our series on the Questions Jesus Asked with a message on Jesus' question Why Are You Anxious? Pastor walks us through how worry divides, worry subtracts, and Jesus adds.
Questions for this week:
- What does Paul mean when he says to "take every thought captive to Christ"? What are the effects of allowing thoughts to run wild? - How does worry play out like functional atheism in our lives? - Why do you think Jesus ended His discussion on worry with these words, "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble"? How is it meant to bring you comfort?
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Marcus Lane "Why Do You See The Speck In Your Brother's Eye?" and hear from Amy Duncan on why she chose "Bless God" for worship on Sunday.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Bless God"
Brandon Lake, Brooke Ligertwood, and Cody Carnes
CCLI Song # 7206380
CCLI License # 11254293
Pastor Marcus Lane preaches on judgement as we look at Jesus' question, Why Do You See The Speck In Your Brother's Eye? Pastor Marcus teaches that the kind of judgement Jesus calls us to is carried out in humility, repentance, and honor.
Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "What Do You Want Me To Do For You?" and hear from Amy Duncan on why she chose "Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)" for worship on Sunday.
Intro/Outro Song: "Only One"
Nate Zuellig
ULC Artist In Residence
"Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)"
Chris Tomlin
CCLI Song # 4768151
CCLI License # 11254293
As Jesus is passing through Jericho on his way to Jerusalem, a blind man cries out for mercy. Jesus asks him, what do you want me to do for you? The blind man asks to see again. Jesus immediately restores his sight. In this simple account, we are invited to see Jesus clearly, answer his question honestly, and receive the healing we need as well.
In this sermon we look at what the apostle John means when he tells us to “test the spirits.” Pastor Gabe unpacks the nature of spiritual reality and how in the cross of Christ we have overcome any lies the enemy might throw at us.
As Pastor Gabe continues our sermon series on 1 John, 1 John 3:11-24 commands us to love one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. This is not easy. People are messy. Community is hard. But when we hear the word of Love that God has spoken over our lives in Christ, it frees us to live lives of love towards each other.
Pastor Marcus Lane continues our sermon series BeLove(d): A Series on 1 John with a message titled Children of God. This message reminds us that "you are God’s children, so reject sin and live from your source".
Pastor Marcus Lane continues our sermon series BeLove(d): A Series on 1 John with a message titled Walk in the Light. This message outlines how we should cling to Jesus, imitate Jesus, and love like Jesus.
Pastor Gabe kicks of our new sermon series on the book of 1 John. As John starts his letter he presents us with the incredible scandal that God has come to us in Jesus and we are invited to find our identity as his beloved as we live in fellowship with him.
Pastor Marcus Lane wraps up our sermon series Intentional: Pursuing What Matters with a message on Holistic. This message covers how we should carry your cross, die to yourself, and cling to Jesus.
As we look at the final piece of our Venn Diagram of an intentional life, Pastor Gabe invites us to pursue a life of integrity. Integrity matters. But, integrity is a struggle. In the gospel we’re set free to own our struggles with integrity and as we look to the One who had perfect integrity on our behalf, we are motivated to be people of integrity.
Pastor Marcus continues the Intentional series with his message Friend. We are sent into the world to extend love and kindness, because love and kindness is what transformed us when we received the Gospel! This kind of loving-kindness is what actually has the power to transform lives. Isn’t it exactly what transformed ours?
Pastor Gabe continues in our series, Intentional by looking at how a life of mission and relationship necessitates a calling to be a peacemaker in our world. Peacemaking is not easy, nearly impossible, but as we look to Christ crucified we find the true wisdom to be sent into the world as peacemakers.
Pastor Marcus Lane continues our sermon series Intentional: Pursuing What Matters with a message on Relationship. This message covers the gift, the source, and the purpose of relationships.
As Pastor Gabe continues our series Intentional: Pursuing What Matters we look into pursuing a life of character. So often we can slip into thinking our moral choices don’t matter or into a legalism that looks to our works to save us. Instead, a life in pursuit of character recognizes that because we are already saved on account of God’s grace in Christ we are now empowered to seek to live with Christ-like character by the power of his Spirit at work inside us.
Pastor Marcus continues our Intentional sermon series, where life is lived at the intersection of mission, character, and relationships. This sermon focuses on Mission: Care for the world for the sake of the Gospel in pursuit of God’s kingdom.
This week Pastor Gabe kicks of a new sermon series called Intentional: Pursuing What Matters. In this sermon we explore what it means to live a life intentionally pursuing the things of God. And as we do that we discover the joy and lightness of a life rooted in the grace of God given to us in Christ.
Pastor Marcus Lane concludes the Do Less. Be More. Together. sermon series with his message on Together. Christ has come and given his life to destroy everything that separates you from God and one another. You have been united to one another and to God by Jesus, who shed his blood for you! When you live together as one, you reveal Christ to the world.
Pastor Marcus continues the Do Less. Be More. Together. sermon series with his message Be More. If we want to be more, we need to remember our purpose. When we forget our purpose, we wander off and settle for distractions. We were made for love that flows from a pure heart & sincere faith! Our purpose is to reflect Jesus and his love to the world.
As we start our new sermon series, Do Less. Be More. Together., Pastor Gabe looks at Jesus practice going off in solitude to spend time in prayer. Jesus invites us to do the same, this will involve “doing less” in the eyes of achievement society, but in doing so we find rest for our souls in the One who achieved everything for us.
As we conclude our Summer Psalms series, we see that the Psalms end with a great climax of praise to God for his greatness. We recognize how His greatness is passed on from generation to generation as we hear from our friend Musa Jospeh of Christ’s Hope International. But, above all we see that God in his greatness chooses to pour out his grace for us in Jesus that we might extend that grace to others.
Pastor Marcus continues the Summer Psalms series with a message on Psalm 130 The Love of the Lord. God loves you. He forgives you. He is patient with you. Share this gift with the world.
Pastor Marcus continues the Summer Psalms series with a message on The Vegeance of the Lord. God’s judgment is against the proud, to bring discipline, for the sake of the humble.
In this sermon, Pastor Gabe walks us through Psalm 42 where we learn how to navigate times of spiritual dryness by pouring out our souls, talking to ourselves, reordering our hopes, but above all looking to Christ crucified for us.
Pastor Marcus continues the Summer Psalms sermon series with a message from Psalm 27. The House of the Lord. Through this message you will hear that you don’t have to be afraid, because nothing is too great for God. No enemy, no evil, no sin in your life will stop this God from bringing about his perfect plan and purpose. Simply wait on him. Be strong. Take courage. Wait on the Lord.
In Psalm 16, David lays out some simple spiritual truths. All that is good is from God. He provides for our needs. There is joy in his presence. We can receive these truths as simple platitudes, but as we consider their depth and fulfillment in Christ, we see that these simple truths can shape our entire lives.
Pastor Marcus continues the Summer Psalms series with a message on Psalm 6 and The Deliverance of the Lord.
As we begin our series on the Psalms, Psalm 1 invites us to delight and meditate on God and His Word. In doing this, we discover a depth in life that is unshakeable as we cling to the deliverance won for us in Jesus Christ.
Pastor Marcus concludes the All Things New sermon series with a message on A New Understanding.
On the day of Pentecost the first followers of Jesus are filled with the Holy Spirit. As they proclaim the Word of God we see that all people are invited to call upon the Lord and be saved. May we be filled with the Holy Spirit as we trust and proclaim that same message.
Pastor Marcus continues our series All Things New with his message A New Commandment. Jesus came into the world for you. He came to fulfill the commands you could not fulfill, live the life you could not live, graciously lay down his life, and make you a friend of God. He has set you free, filled you with his Spirit, and sent you to go and be a witness to him.
In Romans 12, St. Paul tells us to no longer be conformed to the broken patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This is no small thing. All too often we conform to the patterns of this world, but according to his mercy, God in Christ empowers us to live lives continually renewed by his Spirit.
Pastor Marcus continues the All Things New sermon series with this message, A New Heart. God has given you a new relationship with him, so you can live confident that you are his beloved child. The risen Jesus has breathed his Spirit into you and granted you a new heart.
Pastor Marcus continutes the All Things New series with a message on A New Humanity. Paul says that those who were once divided & cut off are now brought in and made members of the same family & citizenship. What does this new humanity, built on the teaching of the apostles and lordship of Jesus do? Listen now.
In his resurrection, Jesus is the first fruits of the new creation. In him we to are new creatures as he takes on our sin and gives us his righteousness. In him we find purpose for our lives and hope for eternity as we are reconciled to God now and forever.
The prophet Jeremiah promises God’s people that one day God will make a new covenant. In this new covenant they will find security, freedom, intimacy, and grace. When we look the risen Christ’s finished work we see that is exactly what we receive in the new covenant by the power of the Spirit.
Jesus is Risen! He is Risen indeed, Alleluia! Jesus has come, he has died, and rose again. And right now, he is calling out to you. Come, put your trust in him, and find life.
Throughout redemptive history God has used meals to deliver his people. In the last supper Jesus institutes a meal that unites us to God’s redemptive work; past, present, and future.
After the wall around Jerusalem is completed the people of Israel gather at the city gate and hear from God’s Word. At first the law convicts them of their failure before God, but as God’s Word continues to work on their hearts they go home rejoicing in the deliverance of their God. In the same way, we don’t always receive God’s Word as we ought to, but our King Jesus came for us and delivered us that we might rejoice in his deliverance.
The restoration that our world needs, that you and I need, is in this Jesus. He has come into the world for you. He went to the cross & died for you. He rose again for you. Jesus has come to restore you so that you might live with God’s help free from fear and reflect this Jesus to the world.
As Nehemiah and his crew begin rebuilding the walls of the Jerusalem they encounter opposition. But, we see in Nehemiah’s leadership that they are prepared to continue to build as they find their refuge in the Lord. In the same way we are called to defend ourselves agains the lies of the enemy and find our refuge in Christ’s ultimate victory over all that would oppose God’s people.
Pastor Marcus continues our Lenten sermon series Redux with a message Retell. We all see and feel the deep cynicism of our world. The great gift of retelling the same story of God is that it invites into a different way of being shaped not by cynicism, but by joy and thanksgiving.
In Pastor Marcus' message Rebuild, mourning reminds us why we rebuild. It reminds us that things are not as they should be, and God is inviting us into more.
As a faithful remnant return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple, we are invited to live as a faithful remnant today as we build rituals in our lives that center us around God’s Word Made Flesh, the One who has brought us home to God.
We begin our Lenten sermon series Redux with an Ash Wednesday message from Pastor Marucus, Report.
Pastor Marcus concludes the Ancient/Future sermon series with this message, Yesterday/Day. You don’t have to live in your strength. You don’t have to muster up the effort to prove yourself. God is working in you and through you. There is nothing he will ask of you that he will not accomplish in you. The invitation is to surrender. Surrender your life, work, and gifts to God and live by his strength, hold to his teaching, and extend his love.
As the author of Hebrews invites us to find endurance to follow Jesus in the lives of the saints who have gone before us, we have the opportunity to hear from our sister in Christ, Yarimar Cherney, share about how she follows Jesus in her role as executive director of Family Life Services. As we dig into our text and hear from Yari, we are ultimately pointed to our savior who endured the cross with joy for each one of us.
Pastor Marcus continues our series on Ancient/Future with the message Drew Near/Draw Near. When God’s people meet together, something profound happens. He shows up in that place. He draws us into the truth that changes everything.
Doesn’t matter who we are or what we believe we can’t help but recognize that we live in a moral universe. This means we can’t help but have to deal with our own moral failings and feelings of guilt. The author of Hebrews recognizes this and insists that the way to deal with it is not through self-justification, but through trust in the new covenant given to us through Jesus sacrifice on the cross.
We continue our Ancient/Future series with a message on Held Fast/Hold Fast from Pastor Marcus. Hold fast to him, hold fast to his grace, hold fast to his promises, because he is holding fast to you.
In the first verses of the book of Hebrews, the author of Hebrews lays out his thesis. Jesus is far superior to anything or anyone else. His message is far superior to any other message. And the message he speaks to you today is one of grace.
The Christmas story invites us to find our home in wonder at the God who became man to save us.
Our faith causes us to feel not-at-home in the world, because we are longing, not for a different place, but for this place to be healed and restored by the presence of God. Hear more from Pastor Marcus' message Searching for Home.
The story of the prodigal son is the story of the universe. We’ve all run from our home in God, but in his grace, while we were still a long way off, God in Christ ran towards us, embraced us, and welcomed us home.
This week we launched a new series for Advent titled, This Must Be the Place.Is our home a place? Is it fulfilled once we reach a certain goal or have certain things? Pastor Marcus shares a message What is Home?
In his final letter to the 7 churches in Asia Minor, Jesus calls the church of Laodicea to repent of being lukewarm and pursue him with zeal. He invites to not be distracted by the riches and accolades of the world but to zealously grab hold of the spiritual power found in relationship with him.
As Jesus speaks to the church in Philadelphia he reminds them of his authority, sends them on his mission, and gives them a hope for the future. In this sermon, Pastor Gabe encourages us to live under Jesus’ authority as we pursue his mission and look to eternity with God.
We continue our sermon series Dear Church // 7 Letters to 7 Churches in Revelation with a message from Pastor Marcus. Are we, as a church, asleep at the wheel? Listen to hear what we can learn from the letter to the church in Sardis.
Pastor Marcus continues our Dear Church series with a message on Thyatria: The Worldly Church. If you long for peace, wholeness, and rest, it comes through the just judgement of the one who has our well-being in mind.
Peace requires compromise. But what does that mean when it comes to Jesus? Pastor Marcus continues our series on "Dear Church."
In the letter to the church in Smyrna, Jesus acknowledges their suffering and their poverty, and in the midst of that he calls them to not be afraid but instead remain rooted in his love and be faithful unto death that the may receive the crown of life. We, too, are challenged to hold fast to Jesus’ love in the face of fear as we take hope in our risen Savior.
When you think of the word church, what comes to mind for you? We begin our new sermon series "Dear Church" with a letter to Ephesus. This message focuses on returning to our first love that they might conquer by faith in Christ the conquerer.
Not only does calling him the Christ mean worshiping him as the crucified one. It means taking up a cross and suffering with him. What is preventing you from taking up the call to carry your cross and following after Jesus? What are you trying to gain? Protect? Avoid? Who are you trying to impress or appease? Is it worth it?
As Jesus calls the tax collector Levi we get a glimpse of the radical and scandalous nature of grace. And yet, it is by this grace that we are saved from a narrative of performance into a life lived from a place of love and acceptance.
If God is just, why is there so much evil in the world? If Jesus is so good, why has so much bad been done in his name? Pastor Marcus continues with our Why Jesus? sermon series.
The life of Jesus has inspired more beauty in this world than anything or anyone else. As we see his beautiful life in action, we can’t help but be captivated, inspired, and overwhelmed by his grace towards us.
Jesus brought about an ethical revolution that has shaped our world so throughly that in, some ways, we are blind to it. And yet, his command for us to love others remains a constant challenge, it is only in first resting in the love he has shown us that we can extend the goodness of his love to others.
If Jesus is true, live-giving foor that means everything else claiming to give life is actually fake. Listen for Pastor Marcus' full sermon on He is True as we continue our Why Jesus? sermon series.
As we start a new series, we begin to explore how Jesus is better than anything else the world has to offer. As we turn from an instrumental understanding of our relationship to him, we find that he is the sustaining source of life we need both now and into eternity.
As the story of Joseph comes to a close, Joseph lets God be God, holds onto an eternal perspective, and reconciles with his brothers for good. All of this points us to the God who came into our world in the person of Jesus Christ that we might be reconciled to Him forever.
As Joseph rises to power, he encounters the brothers who sold him into slavery. Instead of exacting vengeance on them, he extends grace. In the same way, our brother Jesus, doesn’t execute the justice we deserve but instead offers us God’s transformative grace again and again.
The four-week series on The Gospel According to Joseph continues with Pastor Marcus' message Joseph Tempted. When we endure temptation, we do not do so in our own strength but in the power of God's love poured out in Jesus.
Pastor Marcus launches our four-week sermon series The Gospel According to Joseph with a message on Joseph Mistreated. The outline for this message is Jacob’s partiality, Joseph’s pride, and his brother’s contempt.
We continue to study heroes of our faith in the series "Dead Guy Summer." Saints are born out of a confidence of who we already are in Jesus: We are heirs. We have put on Christ. We are one.
At face value the life of St. Monica is fairly unremarkable. And yet, through her life we see a picture of the gospel. Just as she faithfully loved and pursued her son, we have a God who has loved and pursued us in Christ.
As we continue our Dead Guy Summer sermon series, we look at the live of two brothers, Cyril and Methodius. In their lives we see how the mission of God is fulfilled as we proclaim the powerful and life-giving message of the gospel to all people.
We continue our sermon series Dead Guy Summer with a message from Pastor Marcus on how the firstborn of creation became the firstborn from the dead to reconcile you to God.
In the lives and deaths of Perpetua and Felicity we see two women who did not settle for shallow answers in life, but lived in light of a deeper reality, who they were in Christ. May we too embrace a Spirit of adoption, a vision of glory, and hope that triumphs in the face of despair.
In this sermon series, we look at the lives of the saints, not to place them upon pedestals, but to ultimately look beyond them. There is no better example than Martin Luther, whose life and teaching remind us to look beyond ourselves to Christ, who is our righteousness.
In the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, we see the radical call to follow Jesus and live lives of countercultural faithfulness. This is not an easy call, but the one who calls has freely given himself for us, so we long to freely follow after Him.
Today we launch our first summer sermon series Dead Guy Summer with a message on a heroes of the faith, featuring Basil. Today is also Pentecost Sunday. The same Spirit that was present at Pentecost pointing men and women to Jesus is present in and through the Word, pointing you to Jesus. Because Jesus is the salvation of the world. Jesus is our rescue from sin and all of the ways it has corrupted God’s good creation.
Guest Pastor Ken Huner completes our Easter series with this message, Risen to Complete.
As Jesus meets with Peter after his resurrection, he invites Peter and us to love Him, depend on him, and follow him even into death.
Pastor Marcus continues the series on He is Risen with the message Risen to Remind. This message shares how every moment, every relationship, every interaction is lived in the newness of Christ and his forgiveness.
In these two verse John invites us to see that Jesus is connected to every area of our lives. The reality of Jesus’ resurrection means he is alive now, we can know him, be transformed by him, and find life in his name.
Pastor Marcus continues the He is Risen series with a message on doubt. There is a reason for doubt, an answer to doubt, and a promise in doubt. In the face of doubt and uncertainty, cling to Jesus, because when you cling to Jesus you are blessed.
In the midst of our fear, the resurrected Jesus shows up and announces peace. As we receive his peace he sends us out by the power of the Holy Spirit to announce grace to the world.
Pastor Marcus completes our Lenten "Sojourn" series with a message encouraging listeners to seek Jesus, search the Scriptures, and see Jesus.
When Jesus washed the feet of his disciples at the Last Supper he showed us his love, invited us into fellowship with him, and commanded us to extend that love to one another.
As he closes out his letter to the early church, St. Peter exhorts us to live humble lives before God and before each other. But this path of humility can only be followed by looking to our humble king.
Pastor Marcus continues our Lenten Sojourn series with a message about community. When we love each other we are witnessing to God's action in the past and the reality he has in store for the future.
In this text, Peter exhort us to love the church and love those who wrong us but he doesn't expect us to do it in our own strength, but invites us to draw strength from the grace poured out for us in this cross and given to us in our baptism.
Pastor Marcus continues our Lenten series, "Sojourn" with a message on honoring everyone, evening in suffering, as a reflection of Jesus.
St. Peter invites us to grow in spiritual maturity as we turn our desire toward the goodness of God, embrace the identity he gives us in the gospel, and live honorably towards others.
Guest Preacher Pastor Tyler shares a message on The Path of Holiness, the second message in our Lenten sermon series "Sojourn."
Pastor Marcus leads the Ash Wednesday worship gathering with a message on the path of trial. This life is preparation, trial, and God's will.
As we close our Non-Negotiables series, we recognize that God, in Christ, has reconciled us to himself and to each other that we might be the place where his healing presence can dwell by the power of his Holy Spirit.
Pastor Marcus shares a message partnering together with one another and with other kingdom-minded partners to embrace our calling as a church, reflecting the life of Jesus into the world.
Speaking empty words without action is not faith. Intellectual ascent is not faith. Feelings are not faith. Faith is trusting in Jesus in such way that one’s entire life is oriented around following him.
Pastor Marcus preaches a message how God's grace and power make the Church the Church and propel the mission of God.
As we look to the Christ’s return, we recognize the hospitality we’ve received from God in Christ Jesus and seek to live intentional lives of love, welcome, and grace towards others.
Pastor Marcus shares a message on fostering genuine relationships as a part of the sermon series on "Non-Negotiables." The message covers how love reflects, frees, and empowers.
Our culture simultaneously advocates for hyper-individualism and demands we conform to particular tribes. The Scriptures invite us to see our individual selves as part of the body of Christ. It is here we encounter unity in diversity. And above all, it is here we find the joy of union with Christ.
Pastor Marcus finished our Advent series with a message on "Waiting for Renewal." What is God always working? Renewal. Right now, he's renewing his creation. In the future, he will renew his creation.
The Good News of Christmas is that the babe of Bethlehem is Lord of all. This means that our God has drawn near to comfort, redeem, save, and give us peace as we live under the rule and reign of King Jesus.
Pastor Marcus encourages us that wherever we are and in whatever we're doing, if we do it in faith, we'll find God there. Because God has come to be with us.
In a world aching for transcendence, God responds to that ache by sending his Son to be Immanuel, God With Us. Just as Jesus was present with us as the baby born in Bethlehem, he promises to be present with us now, as a foretaste of our future of living in His presence for eternity.
The As We Wait series continues as Pastor Marcus shares a message how God has drawn near. He has come to be present with you, pardoned your sin, and right now he has filled you with the power of the Word.
Pastor Gabe preaches a message on waiting for justice. He discusses the problem of justic, the vision of justice, and the hope of justice.
Pastor Marcus shares a message on Ruth chapter 4, and we hear how sacrifice resists self-interest, faithfulness resists complacency, and hope resists cynicism.
Pastor Gabe preaches a message on Ruth, sharing how the redemption we receive in Jesus gives us eternal security. We are loved, forgiven, and valued. We are called for a purpose.
Pastor Marcus shares a message on Ruth chapter two and the kindness of Ruth, Boaz, and Yahweh.
Pastor Gabe shares a message on God's Providence, that the hearers may see how God provides for us in hidden ways.
Pastor Marcus shares a message on what the Sacrements are, why God has given us them, and how the Sacraments shape our life together.
The mission of God means he has a sending posture. He sent promises, he sent prophets, he sent Jesus, he sent the Spirit. The mission of God gives you a sent posture.
Pastor Gabe talks about the definition of faith, the knowledge of faith, and the promise of faith.
Pastor Marcus talks about how grace affects our situation, our salvation, and our strength.
Pastor Marcus talks about how Jesus came to the Jews for the sake of the world so that you would have hope.
Pastor Chris talks about how the law no longer defines you, love defines you, and love frees you to live for your neighbor.
Pastor Gabe talks about how life is a gift, your life is a gift, and the God of life is with you.
Pastor Chris talks about how God grafts you into the faith, the community, and Himself.
Pastor Gabe talks about the Law and faith, believing and confessing, and being loved and sent.
Pastor Gabe preaches on the context of Romans 9, the promise of God, and the mercy of God.
Pastor Marcus shares a message about how the Spirit frees, the Spirit directs, and the Spirit empowers.
Pastor Marcus talks about how the Law is not the problem, the Law is not the solution, and how we have a solution.
Pastor Marcus talks about how to live in your present reality in light of your future reality by throwing off sin.
Pastor Marcus shares a message on life under the reign of sin, undoing the reign of sin, and life under the reign of grace.
Pastor Marcus shares a message on righteousness through faith, righteousness for everyone, and righteousness that upholds the law.
Pastor Marcus launches our sermon on Romans, sharing a message on God's power to save, power to Jude, and the purpose of judgment.
Pastor Marcus shares a message on how the fear of losing control cultivates hypocrisy, resists the Spirit, and leads to death.
Pastor Marcus shares a message on the reality of rejection, the reason for rejection, and the respite in rejection.
The life of your neighbor is just as beautiful, just as meaningful, and just as sacred as your life or the life of any saint.
Father Forgive Them // Pastor Gabe Kasper
Paradise // Pastor Marcus Lane
Behold Son/Mother // Pastor Gabe Kasper
Forsaken // Pastor Marcus Lane
I Thirst // Pastor Gabe Kasper
It Is Finished // Pastor Marcus Lane
Commit My Spirit // Pastor Gabe Kasper
The Passover: This story is about Jesus. This meal is about Jesus. Your life is about Jesus.
Palm Sunday shows us that we have a God who does not give up on his people, but is always working to restore, renew, and reign over his people in love.
How does God see and deal with injustice? This message covers the violence of injustice, judgment on injustice, and deliverance from injustice.
Biblical hope is rooted in the past, aimed toward the future, and sustains us in the present.
In the midst of darkness, disorientation, and despair we can find hope in the cross of Christ.
Just as the people of Judah lamented over their sin and their suffering. We too are invited to lament and take refuge in the God who suffered for us in Jesus.
Lamentations teaches us what it means to bring our cries before God in trust that he hears us.
As Jude closes his letter he invites his hearers to praise God for who he is and what he’s done in their lives.
Through a myriad of Old Testament examples, Jude warns us about false teachers and points us to cling to Christ alone.
Jude calls us to continue in the Gospel we have received by giving it away, contending for it, and remaining faithful to it.
The Gospel invites us to draw near to God, hold fast to his promises, and stir up one another.
In an age of distraction, the gospel invites us into a life of wholehearted devotion to the living God.
Jesus comes as the light to reveal the path to the Father, cast out darkness, and he makes us witnesses to the light.
Elijah heard from God when he needed it most. In Christ, the very Word of God has come when we need it most.
Idolatry leads to death and judgment, but the good news of Jesus gives us life and rest.
The beginning of Elijah’s ministry invites us to remember our calling to be the kind of people who live by God’s Word in all circumstances.
God’s Spirit fills us with a defiant hope that is rooted in what God has done for us in Jesus.
We find the meaning of life in the person of Jesus christ as we head towards eternity with Him.
Community renewed by the Gospel breaks down division, ends hostility, and makes Jesus known.
Renewed spiritual authority seeks to lift others up and draw others to what God has done in Jesus.
In the midst of a crisis of truth, Jesus invites us to believe in the truth of his words.
The grace and service of Jesus for us moves us to lead lives of humble service to others.
Jesus subverts our understanding of life so that we would be prepared for his kingdom by focusing on his work for us.
Jesus calls us to be prepared as we rest in his presence now and keep our eyes focused on his return.
Jesus calls his followers to count the serious cost of following him and reorient everything around his life and message.
Jesus calls us to pay attention to our lives, priorities, and circumstances as we await the hope of our salvation.
When Jesus makes extraordinary claims about himself he invites us to show our allegiance to him as the Lord of all creation who sets us free from sin.
Crisis leads both Jairus and this woman to Jesus, but faith calls them both to patient expectation for God’s action.
Jesus’ call to discipleship interrupts our lives in order to bring healing and forgiveness.
There is an urgency to the Gospel because it has all come about at a divinely appointed time in history.
The Gospel of Luke is written so that we would have confidence in all that Jesus has done.
“The Gospel invites us to reject individualism and embrace the call to Christian community where we learn what it means to worship Jesus as Lord.”
Materialism is a god that always demands and never satisfies. Jesus is a God who always gives and always satisfies.
Righteous is based on the work of Jesus, because the addition of any requirement of the Law undermines the gospel itself.
In Jesus we are invited to turn from our idols and find our home in the arms of the Father.
Jesus challenges the idol of traditionalism because it conflates human traditions with God’s commands.
God calls us to worship him alone. Trusting in Him, the one that created all things, rather than the things of this world He created.
Jesus teaches us how to love with maturity through intentionally trusting in order to build connection and belonging.
Jesus calls us to embrace new rhythms and spiritual practices built around the new reality of the gospel.
Jesus responds to the temptations that question our identity with the clear words of God that promise we are God’s children.
As we acknowledge the inherent connection between our emotional health and spiritual maturity, the gospel heals us holistically.
Jesus comes as the representative of the Trinity to accomplish God's mission to restore all things by casting out evil and establishing God's kingdom on earth.
The story of David and Bathsheba reveals both the reality of human sin and the depth of God’s love.
In the genealogy of Jesus we see the deepest darkness of human sin, and it is into that reality that Jesus came to set us free.
We reflect that the Gospel is greater than isolation as we live in community ruled by the forgiveness of Jesus that unites us with God and one another.
Rooted in our identity in Christ we are free to kill the sin in our lives and put on compassion and love.
Christian maturity is not found by moving beyond Jesus and the Gospel; it flows from becoming more deeply rooted in Jesus.