South Suburban Church: Recent Episodes
South Suburban Church
This is a space to get caught up on sermons or other content South Suburban produces! To find more information, visit our website at www.SouthSuburban.church
Last week we saw a heavenly perspective on Christmas, this week we’ll look at a heavenly perspective on Easter in Revelation 5. How has God determined the direction history will move? And why did Jesus need to die to fit into that history? Join us Sunday as we celebrate the risen tomb and see God’s plan for Easter in the new heavens and earth!
We’re jumping ahead this week to Revelation 12 to learn about a fight between a dragon and a woman. If that sounds to you like the newest Netflix movie, you would be halfway right! They’re stealing from one of the oldest tropes in the Bible, but in the Bible it’s demonstrating the heavenly reality of Jesus coming to earth. Join us Sunday as we look at how we can ensure we’re following the Lamb instead of the dragon.
How do you describe the indescribable? How do you explain the unexplainable? In this next section of Revelation, we’ll get a picture of what heaven looks like, and there are no words that could summarize it! Yet there are earthly pictures that point us to heavenly realities and remind us to worship this sovereign creator God. Join us Sunday as we continue our series in Revelation 4:1-11.
We wrap up our tour of the 7 churches of 1st Century Asia this week with Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea! As we contemplate Jesus’ commands to them, we’ll be reminded that Jesus is the Lord of everything, and we’ll see some specific implications for that in our lives today as we seek to demonstrate His love towards others. See you Sunday!
Last week we considered the first two letters to the churches in Revelation. This week we’ll continue that study looking at Revelation 2:12-29 and the letters to Pergamum and Thyatira. We’ll see how we might have a faithful external witness and growth in significant ways, but there remain warnings against tolerating the sin in our midst.
If you were to write a letter to a church today, what would you talk about? What things would you say they’re doing well, and what areas would you say they’re weak? As we look at Revelation 2:1-11 this week, we’ll see Jesus’ letter to the churches in Ephesus and Smyrna. Over the next few weeks, I’d encourage you to read through all the letters and see if there are things we should learn from Jesus’ encouragements and warnings. See you Sunday as we start the letters to the churches!
When we think of Jesus, the tendency is to either picture Him as a baby or an adult on the cross. But what about the pictures we have of Jesus in His resurrected the glorified body? This week, we’ll be taking a look at John’s first glance of the risen Jesus, and see the way his response serves as a model for our response to Him as we look at Revelation 1:9-20.
Revelation begins with a promise for blessing to those who read and keep the words that are found in it. It’s also important to remember that apocalypse means “revealing”, meaning God wants us to understand and have our eyes opened in the right direction. As we begin our study through Revelation (keeping in mind what we studied last week about the proper way to interpret Revelation), we will see the blessing that comes by studying God’s revealing of the way the world is moving.
It’s finally here! We’re starting our sermon series through the book of Revelation! This first sermon will be an overview of how to study the book, why we’re studying this book, as well as some ways to faithfully interpret it today. God included this book for a reason, and it’s up to us to determine that reason and continue putting our hope and confidence in Him because of that!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What hope does everlasting life hold for us?
A: It reminds us that this present fallen world is not all there is; soon we will live with and enjoy God forever in the new city, in the new heaven and the new earth, where we will be fully and forever freed from all sin and will inhabit renewed, resurrection bodies in a renewed, restored creation.
Memory Verse:
Revelation 21:1-4 "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Video Devotional
Catechism Question
Q: Of what advantage to us is Christ's ascension?
A:Christ physically ascended on our behalf, just as he came down to earth physically on our account, and he is now advocating for us in the presence of his Father, preparing a place for us, and also sends us his Spirit.
Memory Verse:
Romans 8:34 "Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us."
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Video Devotional
Catechism Question:
Q: What does Christ's resurrection mean for us?
A:Christ triumphed over sin and death by being physically resurrected, so that all who trust in him are raised to new life in this world and to everlasting life in the world to come. Just as we will one day be resurrected, so this world will one day be restored. But those who do not trust in Christ will be raised to everlasting death.
Memory Verse:
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 "But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep."
The one in which we talk about the 5 books of Psalms.
To see the message from Dr. Hamilton, check out: https://helps.efca.org/resources/the-psalms-christ-and-the-christian-scriptures-with-dr-james-hamilton
In Psalm 28, David gives us a template for how we worship the Lord in every season of our lives. It’s easy to worship God when things are going well and we’re in a season of blessing, but what about when things are difficult, and it feels like God isn’t responding? Join us this week as we continue our Summer in the Psalms and find out how we can keep our focus in the right direction and worship God in every season of life!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question
Q: Where is Christ now?
A:Christ rose bodily from the grave on the third day after his death and is seated at the right hand of the Father, ruling his kingdom and interceding for us, until he returns to judge and renew the whole world.
Memory Verse
Ephesians 1:20-21 "He raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come."
Psalm 27 picks up several themes we have already explored this summer: God as teacher and protector, the salvation he brings to his people, our need to wait for what God is doing, all culminating in confidence. As we walk through Psalm 27 we will see how many of these themes fit together to establish our confidence in God, that He will sustain and protect us while we wait on Him.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Video Devotional
Catechism Question:
Q: What is the church?
New City Catechism Answer: God chooses and preserves for himself a community elected for eternal life and united by faith, who love, follow, learn from, and worship God together. God sends out this community to proclaim the gospel and prefigure Christ’s kingdom by the quality of their life together and their love for one another.
Alternate Answer: The church is the community of all true believers under the Lordship of Christ, who love, follow, learn from, and worship God together. God sends out this community to proclaim the gospel and prefigure Christ’s kingdom by the quality of their life together and their love for one another.
Memory Verse:
2 Thessalonians 2:13 "But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth."
In Psalm 26 we find David begging God to vindicate him, that is to declare him innocent of fault. Yet just this past week we saw David begging God to forgive his many sins. How can there be such a quick turnaround in David’s heart and mind? It’s only possible because someone else has declared David to be innocent and in perfect standing. Join us Sunday to find out who that person is, and how we can be vindicated before the Lord!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Does the Lord's Supper add anything to Christ's atoning work?
A:No, Christ died once for all. The Lord’s Supper is a covenant meal celebrating Christ’s atoning work; as it is also a means of strengthening our faith as we look to him, and a foretaste of the future feast. But those who take part with unrepentant hearts eat and drink judgment on themselves.
Memory Verse:
1 Peter 3:18 "For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God. . . ."
How good are you at waiting? Do you think waiting is easier if you know what’s coming? This week we continue our summer series in Psalm 25 which will teach us how to wait for the Lord. But this waiting doesn’t mean we sit back passively, we are expected to pursue active waiting where we continue in obedience to God while we wait for Him. Join us Sunday as we learn the difference between active and passive waiting.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What is the Lord's Supper?
A: Christ commanded all Christians to eat bread and to drink from the cup in thankful remembrance of him and his death. The Lord’s Supper is a celebration of the presence of God in our midst; bringing us into communion with God and with one another; feeding and nourishing our souls. It also anticipates the day when we will eat and drink with Christ in his Father’s kingdom.
Memory Verse:
1 Corinthians 11:23-26 "For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes."
We’re up to Psalm 24 this week! This Psalm is a great example of a faithful liturgy for God’s people. Starting with a recognition of who God is, it then moves to ask who is worthy to approach God before ending in God’s presence. Each section is significant and bears understanding as we understand how to faithfully worship the one true and living God. Join us Sunday as we learn how to worship God acceptably!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Is baptism with water the washing away of sin itself?
A:No, only the blood of Christ and the renewal of the Holy Spirit can cleanse us from sin.Memory Verse:
Luke 3:16 "John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What is Baptism?
A: Baptism is the washing with water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; it signifies and seals our adoption into Christ, our cleansing from sin, and our commitment to belong to the Lord and to his church.
Memory Verse:
Matthew 28:19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. . . ."
This week we are continuing our series through the Psalms by looking at Psalm 22. This Psalm will be familiar to many of us because of the words, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" which Christ quotes on the cross. While this Psalm clearly applies to Christ's death, it has much to teach us about lament, trust, and praise as we fix our eyes on God and his faithfulness.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What are the sacraments or ordinances?
A: The sacraments or ordinances given by God and instituted by Christ, namely baptism and the Lord’s Supper, are visible signs and seals that we are bound together as a community of faith by his death and resurrection. By our use of them the Holy Spirit more fully declares and seals the promises of the gospel to us.
Memory Verse:
Romans 6:4 "We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life."
Luke 22:19-20 "And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.”
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: How is the Word of God to be read and heard?
A: With diligence, preparation, and prayer; so that we may accept it with faith, store it in our hearts, and practice it in our lives.
Memory Verse:
2 Timothy 3:16-17 "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What is the Lord's Prayer?
A:Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
Memory Verse:
Matthew 6:9 "Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. . . .”
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What should we pray?
A: The whole Word of God directs and inspires us in what we should pray, including the prayer Jesus himself taught us.
Memory Verse:
Ephesians 3:14-21 "For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."
As Jesus changes locations, His teaching becomes much more focused on how to live as disciples of Him. As we continue our series in Mark 10:1-31, we’ll see how God’s people are supposed to live different lives. As followers of Jesus, we are called to give up everything to be obedient to Him. Join us Sunday as we look at some practical ways to serve Jesus with our lives.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: With What Attitude should we pray?
A:With love, perseverance, and gratefulness; in humble submission to God’s will, knowing that, for the sake of Christ, he always hears our prayers.
Memory Verse:
Philippians 4:6 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."
This week we come down from the mountaintop of transfiguration to the valley of unbelief in Mark 9:14-50. Jesus continues using opportunities to teach His disciples about what it looks like to follow Him, and it runs contradictory to the way we’re all wired! Everything in our lives trains us to think about our needs and interests higher than others, but Jesus tells us that’s the opposite of how it should be! Join us Sunday to find out how we’re supposed to follow Jesus in our daily lives.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What is prayer?
A:Prayer is pouring out our hearts to God in praise, petition, confession of sin, and thanksgiving.
Memory Verse:
Psalm 62:8 "Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us."
Last week Mark’s gospel reached the pinnacle of the story with Peter’s declaration that Jesus is the Christ. This week we are left asking, “If Jesus is the Christ, what does that mean for me?” This week, as we consider Mark 8:34-9:13, we’ll see the cost of following Christ and how Christ’s transfiguration points to His Lordship and our own transformation as we walk with Him.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: How does the Holy Spirit Help Us?
A:The Holy Spirit convicts us of our sin, comforts us, guides us, gives us spiritual gifts and the desire to obey God; and he enables us to pray and to understand God’s Word.
Memory Verse:
Ephesians 6:17-18 "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints."
We’ve finally reached the pinnacle of Mark’s Gospel where the disciples finally realize who Jesus is (Mark 8:22-33), but do they really know who He is? It seems that everyone has a different perspective on who Jesus is and what He came to do, but who’s right? Unfortunately for all of them, none of them are, as God’s ways don’t always fit with our preconceived ideas. Join us this week as we learn why it’s important to know exactly who Jesus is, and what that means for our daily lives.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What do we believe about the Holy Spirit?
A: That he is God, coeternal with the Father and the Son, and that God grants him irrevocably to all who believe.
Memory Verse:
John 14:16-17 "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you."
Jesus’ identity is coming more into focus each week, yet people still refuse to believe who He is. As we study the first half of Mark 8 this week, we’ll see another example of Jesus’ extravagant provision for people, as well as some incorrect ways to respond to Him. As you take stock of your life, when are you tempted to forget or not trust in Jesus’ provision for you? Join us Sunday to learn how we should respond when Jesus provides for us!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Since we are redeemed by grace alone, through faith alone, where does this faith come from?
A: All the gifts we receive from Christ we receive through the Holy Spirit, including faith itself.
Memory Verse:
Titus 3:4-6 "But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior."
Have you ever felt so dirty that no amount of showering felt like you could get clean? In this week’s passage (Mark 7:1-37), we’ll be taking a look at what truly makes someone unclean. As Jesus has done repeatedly throughout the Gospel so far, He will bring our focus back to what God wants and continue demonstrating God’s mission to reach the world.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Since we are redeemed by grace alone, through Christ alone, must we still do good works and obey God's word?
A: Yes, because Christ, having redeemed us by his blood, also renews us by his Spirit; so that our lives may show love and gratitude to God; so that we may be assured of our faith by the fruits; and so that by our godly behavior others may be won to Christ.
Memory Verse:
1 Peter 2:9-12 "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation."
What comes to mind when you think about the word “desolate”? It may bring up images of barren places, or something deserted and broken down: a wasteland. In our passage this week we’ll focus in on the idea of wilderness and the work God does in and for his people as they gather in a desolate place and God provides all that is needed in miraculous ways.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Should those who have faith in Christ seek their salvation through their own works, or anywhere else?
A: No, they should not, as everything necessary to salvation is found in Christ. To seek salvation through good works is a denial that Christ is the only Redeemer and Savior.
Memory Verse:
Galatians 2:16 "Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified."
We’ll be continuing our regularly scheduled preaching this week as we dive back into Mark 6:6-30. We’re picking it up right after Jesus’ rejection from his hometown and see how Jesus shifts his ministry focus moving forward. We’ll also see the end of John the Baptist’s ministry and consider how we should be continually carrying out Jesus’ ministry today. See you Sunday!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What do justification and sanctification mean?
A: Justification means our declared righteousness before God, made possible by Christ’s death and resurrection for us. Sanctification means our gradual, growing righteousness, made possible by the Spirit’s work in us.
Memory Verse:
1 Peter 1:1-2 "To those who are elect exiles . . . according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you."
What is shaping your heart and mind?
Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question: Q: What do we believe by true faith? A: Everything taught to us in the gospel. The Apostles’ Creed expresses what we believe in these words: We believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from there he will come to judge the living and the dead. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.
Memory Verse: Jude 3 "I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints."
This week begins our Holy Week, and we’ll be taking a look at the Triumphal Entry account from Matthew 21:1-22. In His first coming, Jesus turns all the expectations people had for the Messiah on their head, and shows what it’s supposed to look like to follow Him and live as obedient people of the King. What do you think that is supposed to look like in our lives? Join us Sunday as we learn what it means to live under Jesus’ rule today!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What is faith in Jesus Christ?
A: Faith in Jesus Christ is acknowledging the truth of everything that God has revealed in his Word, trusting in him, and also receiving and resting on him alone for salvation as he is offered to us in the gospel.
Memory Verse:
Galatians 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: How can we be saved?
A: Only by faith in Jesus Christ and in his substitutionary atoning death on the cross; so even though we are guilty of having disobeyed God and are still inclined to all evil, nevertheless, God, without any merit of our own but only by pure grace, imputes to us the perfect righteousness of Christ when we repent and believe in him.
Memory Verse:
Ephesians 2:8-9 "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."
This week we’re looking at Mark 4:35-5:20 where Jesus leaves predominantly Jewish territory to bring the good news of the kingdom to Gentiles. We have already seen in Mark’s gospel that one of the hallmarks of Jesus’ ministry was his authority. We’ll see that theme of Jesus’ authority grow as he shows control over the natural and supernatural world and ask what our response to his authority should be.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What happens after death to those not united to Christ by faith?
A: At the day of judgment they will receive the fearful but just sentence of condemnation pronounced against them. They will be cast out from the favorable presence of God, into hell, to be justly and grievously punished, forever.
Memory Verse: John 3:16-18 & 36 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. . . . Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him."
We’ll be taking a look at some of Jesus’ parables this week from Mark 4:1-34. If someone were to ask you to describe the kingdom of God, how would you answer them? Instead of trying to explain the answer to that question, Jesus uses parables as ways to compare to the kingdom of God, and it subverts everyone’s expectations!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Are all people, just as they were lost through Adam, saved through Christ?
A: No, only those who are elected by God and united to Christ by faith. Nevertheless God in his mercy demonstrates common grace even to those who are not elect, by restraining the effects of sin and enabling works of culture for human well-being.
Memory Verse:
Romans 5:17 "For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ."
What kind of opposition have you seen to Jesus? As we saw Jesus’ fame spreading last week, this week we’ll see the response to that fame from an unlikely source: Jesus’ family. We’ll also see increasing opposition from the scribes. Join us Sunday as we look at how we can ensure we’re not opposing Jesus from Mark 3:20-35.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What else does Christ's death redeem?
A: Christ’s death is the beginning of the redemption and renewal of every part of fallen creation, as he powerfully directs all things for his own glory and creation’s good.
Memory Verse:
Colossians 1:19-20, "For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross."
We’ll be slowing down our rapid pace through Mark this week to contemplate Jesus’ spreading fame and His response. So often in ministry we look to numbers as a validation, but Jesus actively runs away from the numbers. What can we learn from Jesus’ approach to ministry today, and what do we make of the list of Jesus’ 12 disciples? Join us Sunday as we find out from Mark 3:7-19 together.
Click HERE for this week's sermon notes.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question: Q: Does Christ's death mean all our sins can be forgiven?
A: Yes, because Christ’s death on the cross fully paid the penalty for our sin, God graciously imputes Christ’s righteousness to us as if it were our own and will remember our sins no more.
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 5:21 "For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."
You may have heard that Jesus’ coming changes everything. While that’s true, how do we practically live out that reality day to day? How do we submit to Jesus as Lord over every area of our lives instead of merely going through the motions? As we continue our series in Mark 2:18-3:6 this week we’ll see what it means for Jesus to be Lord over everything.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Why was it necessary for Christ, the Redeemer, to die? A: Since death is the punishment for sin, Christ died willingly in our place to deliver us from the power and penalty of sin and bring us back to God. By his substitutionary atoning death, he alone redeems us from hell and gains for us forgiveness of sin, righteousness, and everlasting life.
Memory Verse:
Colossians 1:21-22 "And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him."
Last week we saw the primary focus of Jesus’ ministry being teaching, which continues through this week’s text. Yet in the midst of teaching, Jesus brings healing to people struggling from a wide assortment of maladies. How did Jesus bring healing to every area of people’s lives, and how should we look for healing from Jesus today? Mark 2:1-17 will show us how Jesus engaged in holistic healing.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Why must the Redeemer be truly God?
A: That because of his divine nature his obedience and suffering would be perfect and effective; and also that he would be able to bear the righteous anger of God against sin and yet overcome death.
Memory Verse Acts 2:24 "God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it."
The one in which we talk about the primary mission of the church. The article mentioned can be found at: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevin-deyoung/churches-cant-everything/
Week 2 of Mark will take us through Mark 1:21-45. Mark will continue zipping us along through the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. If you were to describe the primary focus of Jesus’ earthly ministry, how would you describe it? In this passage, we’ll see what Jesus thought of his primary focus and how he lived that focus out.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Why must the Redeemer be truly human?
A: That in human nature he might on our behalf perfectly obey the whole law and suffer the punishment for human sin; and also that he might sympathize with our weaknesses.
Memory Verse: Hebrews 2:17 "Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people."
We’ll begin our new series looking at the Gospel according to Mark this week! That means we’ll be spending most of the next year walking through this book. This week we’ll start at the very beginning where we see how the way was prepared for Jesus, then move to the inauguration of Jesus’ ministry. Unlike the other Gospel accounts, Mark gives us very little detail about Jesus’ birth and instead chooses to dive right in! Throughout this Gospel, we’ll see much attention given to who Jesus is and what it means to follow after Him.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What sort of Redeemer is needed to bring us back to God?
A: One who is truly human and also truly God.
Memory Verse:
Isaiah 9:6 "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
I decided to expand our “Theological Tune Up” series by one more week to deal with everyone’s favorite dinner table topic: money. What does the Bible say about money, how do we faithfully use money, and why do churches talk about “tithing”? This week we’ll be taking a look at a number of passages that talk about money and help us understand why God cares so much about what we spend our money on.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Who is the Redeemer?
A: The only Redeemer is the Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, in whom God became man and bore the penalty for sin himself.
Memory Verse:
1 Timothy 2:5 "For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus."
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Is there a way to escape punishment and be brought back into God's favor?
A: Yes, to satisfy his justice, God himself, out of mere mercy, reconciles us to himself and delivers us from sin and from the punishment for sin, by a Redeemer.
Memory Verse:
Isaiah 53:10-11 "Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him; he has put him to grief; when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied; by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities."
Mental health is a topic that has taken the spotlight in the past few years. Because of that, it’s important that our thinking on this topic be shaped by Scripture and reflect God’s heart for the hurting (Heb. 4:14-16), while also considering the effects of sin on our world and on our bodies. This week we’ll use Matthew 6:25-34 as a starting point as we think through what it means to be faithful followers of Christ while wrestling with the reality of mental health and the very real struggle we have.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to listen to the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question: Q: Will God allow our disobedience and idolatry to go unpunished?
A: No, every sin is against the sovereignty, holiness, and goodness of God, and against his righteous law, and God is righteously angry with our sins and will punish them in his just judgment both in this life, and in the life to come.
Memory Verse: Ephesians 5:5-6 "For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience."
We're starting a new sermon series this week looking at a few hot topic issues and how we should engage them as Christians. This week, we'll be answering the question: what's the big deal about the Bible? Christianity isn't unique in having a sacred text, but why do we believe the Bible is true and other ancient texts are false? And why do we spend so much time reading and studying it together? Join us Sunday as we being our theological tune up for the year!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What is idolatry?
A: Idolatry is trusting in created things rather than the Creator for our hope and happiness, significance and security.
Memory Verse: Romans 1:21 & 25, "
For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. . . . They exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator"
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What is sin?
A: Sin is rejecting or ignoring God in the world he created, rebelling against him by living without reference to him, not being or doing what he requires in his law—resulting in our death and the disintegration of all creation.
Memory Verse:
1 John 3:4, "Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness."
We’ll be finishing our ‘Demystifying Discipleship’ series this week as we look at how we make disciples formally and informally. How do we pursue making disciples in every area of our lives? Deuteronomy 6 gives us a beautiful picture of what this looks like. How do you think you can make disciples formally and informally?
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Since no one can keep the law, what is its purpose?
A: That we may know the holy nature and will of God, and the sinful nature and disobedience of our hearts; and thus our need of a Savior. The law also teaches and exhorts us to live a life worthy of our Savior.
Memory Verse:
Romans 3:20 "For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin."
As we continue to think about what scripture says about discipleship, there is one element of our weekly rhythm we must consider: our Sunday morning gathering. Throughout the history of the church, God’s people have gathered to worship and to encourage one another. How we should approach church has caused division in the church’s history, but there are things which scripture makes clear about our gathering. This week we’ll consider how we make disciples as we gather.
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Did God create us unable to keep his law?
A: No, but because of the disobedience of our first parents, Adam and Eve, all of creation is fallen; we are all born in sin and guilt, corrupt in our nature and unable to keep God’s law.
Memory Verse: Romans 5:12, "Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned."
This week, we’ll be looking at the idea of imitation and how it connects to discipleship. Last week we focused on the content of discipleship being the proclamation of God’s Word, this week we’ll be focusing on people as God’s fellow workers. How do we join with God in making and maturing disciples of Him? We look for people to imitate, and encourage others to imitate us. That idea can at times feel intimidating, but instead it’s meant to encourage us to look for ways God has blessed us and use that to be a blessing to others! I look forward to our time together on Sunday morning!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: Can anyone keep the law of God perfectly?
A: Since the fall, no mere human has been able to keep the law of God perfectly, but consistently breaks it in thought, word, and deed.
Memory Verse: Romans 13:10-12 "None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one."
We’re continuing our “Demystifying Discipleship” series this week as we look at the content of discipleship. We saw last week the that a Christian is someone who is engaged in “transformational learning,” and that a disciple is a redeemed sinner learning Christ by increasing worship of God through every area of your life. This week we’ll look at how we go about this. How do we help others learn Christ, and how do we ourselves learn Christ? There’s no secret method or code, and it’s much easier than many of us realize. Join us Sunday to find out!
What is shaping your heart and mind?Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What does God require in the ninth and tenth commandments?
A: Ninth, that we do not lie or deceive, but speak the truth in love. Tenth, that we are content, not envying anyone or resenting what God has given them or us.
Memory Verse: James 2:8 "If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well."
We're beginning a new series this week titled "Demystifying Discipleship." Through this 5 week series we'll be looking at what a disciple is, how we grow as disciples, and practical ways we can grow in our mission to make and mature disciples of Jesus. This week's sermon is defining discipleship: what is it, what is included in it, and how do we fit it into our already busy lives?
We’ll be going back in our study of Ephesians this week to look at Ephesians 5:17-33. We jumped ahead to the second half of the household code this past week, so we’ll go back and see how Paul started! Marriage serves as the starting point for every family, thus it makes sense that Paul would start there too. However, how is marriage connected to singing? Join us Sunday to find out!
What does it mean for us to “walk worthily” in all our lives? Paul doesn’t just give us theoretical ideas throughout Ephesians, and this week we’ll be looking at the relationships between kids and parents, and slaves and masters. As I mentioned last week, we’ll be jumping ahead a little bit to Ephesians 6:1-9, then going back to finish up Ephesians 5 the week after.
Paul has given us some good examples of how we should not walk thus far in Ephesians. This week, we’ll see how we should walk now that we’re in Christ from Ephesians 5:1-17, and it all centers around imitation. We all end up imitating something, whether intentionally or not. In this text we’ll see reminders about what we should imitate, and how that looks in our lives today.
What is shaping your heart and mind? Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What does the law of God require?
A: Personal, perfect, and perpetual obedience; that we love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength; and love our neighbor as ourselves. What God forbids should never be done and what God commands should always be done.
Memory Verse:
Matthew 22:37-40 "And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.”
Last week we were reminded that we are to live our lives in a manner worthy of Christ. This week Paul carries this idea forward by reminding us that believers are supposed to live in a way that is sharply different than those who are not in Christ. In Christ we have a new identity, and we will be challenged to put off the old self and put on the new self which impacts every area of our lives.
What is shaping your heart and mind? Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Video Devotional
**Catechism Question:
Q:** How can we glorify God?
A:We glorify God by enjoying him, loving him, trusting him, and obeying his will, commands, and law.
**Memory Verse:
Deuteronomy 11:1 "**You shall therefore love the LORD your God and keep his charge, his statutes, his rules, and his commandments always."
We'll be starting a new focus in our Ephesians study this week, as Paul transitions from the theological truths of us being "In Christ" to the practical outworking of that truth. He begins by reminding us to "walk worthily." What do you think that should look like? You may be surprised by Paul's answer to it. See you Sunday morning where we'll see Paul's description of walking worthily in Ephesians 4:1-16.
What is shaping your heart and mind? Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: What else did God create?
A: God created all things by his powerful Word, and all his creation was very good; everything flourished under his loving rule.
Memory Verse:Gen. 1:31 "And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good."
This week we’ll be studying Paul’s second prayer in Ephesians 3:14-21. If you were to take an evaluation of your prayers over the past week, what would the 2 most repeated items be? In this text, Paul will serve as a model for us to evaluate what requests we bring to God, as well as remind us that our Father can provide far more than we could even begin to imagine! If you'd like to visit our website, or have any questions, please go to: http://www.southsuburban.church
What is shaping your heart and mind? Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: How and why did God create us?
A: God created us male and female in his own image to know him, love him, live with him, and glorify him. And it is right that we who were created by God should live to his glory.
Memory Verse:
Gen. 1:27
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
This week, we’ll be taking a look at Ephesians 3:1-13 and looking at the mystery of God. As I’ve shared before, I love reading mysteries, with Sherlock Holmes being my personal favorite! But in the New Testament, it has a slightly different meaning than the mystery books I enjoyed reading growing up. Join us Sunday to see what Paul is talking about when he talks about the mystery God has now revealed! If you'd like to visit our website, or have any questions, please go to: http://www.southsuburban.church
What is shaping your heart and mind? Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Catechism Question:
Q: How many persons are there in God?
A: There are three persons in the one true and living God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They are the same in substance, equal in power and glory.
Memory Verse:
2 Cor. 13:14
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
This week we’ll be studying Ephesians 2:11-22 where we’ll see the new people that are made from those who are “in Christ.” Where we are so often tempted to look for ways to distinguish ourselves from others, Jesus levels the playing field and creates a new humanity where He is the head and we can now have lasting peace.
If you haven't seen the sermon notes yet, you can find them here. If you're interested in reading pastor Mike's sermon, you can find the manuscript on his blog.
What is shaping your heart and mind? Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional, and use the catechism for your personal devotions as well as in your families and small groups.
Video Devotional
Catechism Question:
Q: What is God?
A: God is the creator and sustainer of everyone and everything. He is eternal, infinite, and unchangeable in his power and perfection, goodness and glory, wisdom, justice, and truth. Nothing happens except through him and by his will.
Memory Verse: Psalm 86:8-10 & 15
New City Catechism Website
This week we’re going to be looking at the difference one word can make. Think of some calls you may have received: I got in a car accident, but I’m fine! You have cancer, but it is easily removed. I was lost, but then my parents found me. The word but completely changes the way you’ll respond to the first part of the sentence! This week, we’ll see what a difference that word makes in our spiritual lives as we study Ephesians 2:1-10 together.
If you would like to look at the sermon notes, you can find them here.
What is shaping your heart and mind? Everyone of us is shaped by something. It might be politics, social media, movie, books, if it's something we think a lot about or engage with regularly, we will be shaped by it. Our hope and prayer is that as we begin this new devotional study through the New City Catechism, we will be shaped more deeply be the truths of scripture found in this catechism.
We encourage you to watch the devotional and to memorize both the catechism and Bible passage. It is our prayer that as you use this material, God would use it to shape you more into the image of Christ.
Video Devotional
Catechism Question: (As a reminder, you can find a kid friendly version of the question on the New City Catechism Website)
Q: What is our only hope in life and death?
A: That we are not our own but belong body and soul, both in life and death, to God and to our Savior Jesus Christ.
Memory Verse:
Romans 14:7-8 "For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself. For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's."
To learn more, visit: http://newcitycatechism.com
We're continuing our Ephesians series today, studying Ephesians 1:15-23. If you would like to download the sermon notes for this sermon, please CLICK HERE.
We have begun reciting the New City Catechism together on Sunday mornings. Listen to this for an introduction to why catechisms are helpful as a discipleship tool. To learn more about this, visit: http://newcitycatechism.com
The beginning of our sermon series walking through the book of Ephesians. If you would like to see sermon notes, please CLICK HERE.